Law Summary

Section 1: Conversion of the Satellite Office

• Legal Principle/Provision: The existing Satellite Office of the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) in Maasin City, Southern Leyte, is officially converted into an Extension Office.
• Key Definitions Introduced:
  • MARINA Extension Office: A designated office that will provide maritime services to the local population.
• Important Requirements/Procedures Outlined:
  • The Extension Office will serve the residents of Southern Leyte and neighboring municipalities: Inopacan, Hilongos, Bato, and Matalom in Leyte.

Section 2: Operationalization and Funding

• Legal Principle/Provision: The Administrator of MARINA is tasked with the immediate operationalization of the Extension Office.
• Key Definitions Introduced: None.
• Important Requirements/Procedures Outlined:
  • Funding for the operationalization will be included in the annual General Appropriations Act, which outlines the government’s budget.

Section 3: Issuance of Rules and Regulations

• Legal Principle/Provision: The Secretary of Transportation, through the Administrator of MARINA, is required to issue necessary rules and regulations for the implementation of this Act.
• Key Definitions Introduced: None.
• Important Requirements/Procedures Outlined:
  • The issuance of rules and regulations must occur within sixty (60) days from the effectivity of the Act.

Section 4: Effectivity

• Legal Principle/Provision: The Act will become effective following its publication.
• Key Definitions Introduced: None.
• Important Requirements/Procedures Outlined:
  • The Act will take effect fifteen (15) days after publication in the Official Gazette or a newspaper of general circulation.

Approval and Legislative Process

• Legal Principle/Provision: This Act originated in the House of Representatives and passed both houses of Congress.
• Important Requirements/Procedures Outlined:
  • Passed by the House on January 20, 2021, and by the Senate on January 31, 2022.
  • Approved by the President on April 29, 2022.

Key Takeaways

• The MARINA Satellite Office in Maasin City is officially transformed into an Extension Office to enhance maritime service accessibility.
• The operationalization and funding of the new office are mandated, with provisions for regulatory development within specified timeframes.
• The Act's effectiveness is contingent upon publication, ensuring public awareness and compliance.
• Legislative processes demonstrate the formal approval pathway of the Act, highlighting its significance in enhancing local governance in maritime services.