Duties and Functions of NETFORCE
- Develop plans to control illegal cutting of coconut trees violating RA 8048 and its implementing rules.
- Organize Regional Composite Teams under the Philippine National Police’s supervision to enforce plans.
- Department of Justice to designate investigators/prosecutors to assist in investigations and complaint filings.
- Establish detachment stations and designate roving inspectors and patrols to:
- Monitor and report cutting, processing, transport, and movement of coconut lumber.
- Inspect establishment, operation, and registration of sawmills, lumber dealers, and related operators.
- Arrest violators and seize illegally cut coconut trees, lumber, tools, and transport vehicles.
Authority Granted to Local Government Units (LGUs)
- LGUs have authority to verify authenticity and validity of cutting permits within their jurisdiction.
- Empowered to apprehend violators and seize or confiscate illegal coconut trees, processing implements, and transport vehicles.
- Authority exercised pursuant to the Local Government Code (RA 7160).
Administrative Penalties for Government Officials
- Philippine Coconut Authority officials or barangay officials who permit or connive in violations may be suspended or dismissed.
- Applies disciplinary rules per the Administrative Code of 1987 and penal sanctions under RA 8048.
- Such officials must ensure replanting of cut coconut trees within three months.
- Failure to ensure replanting constitutes prima facie evidence of violation to charge the officials under this section.
Funding and Financial Support of NETFORCE Operations
- Philippine Coconut Authority to allocate sufficient funds from its corporate operating budget.
- Additional funding by at least 10% of fees collected from cutting permit issuance.
- Funds support NETFORCE, regional teams, stations, inspectors, and patrol operations.
Implementation and Effectivity
- NETFORCE empowered to adopt necessary implementing guidelines to enforce the Executive Order.
- The Order takes immediate effect upon issuance.
Legal and Administrative Coordination
- The Order emphasizes multi-agency collaboration among national government departments, law enforcement, and local units.
- Provides for incorporation of private sector stakeholders through farmer organizations and NGOs for support.
- Ensures enforcement aligns with RA 8048 and other relevant laws and guidelines set by the Philippine Coconut Authority.