Law Summary

Introduction

Executive Order No. 544, issued on July 14, 2006, by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, declares and delineates the Coron Port Zone under the administrative jurisdiction of the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA).

Purpose and Need for Development

• Legal Principle: The order emphasizes the urgent need for the development of the Coron seaport located in Barangay Tagumpay, Municipality of Coron, Palawan.
• Key Definitions:
  • Coron Port: Identified as a significant port for northern Palawan, particularly for the Calamianes Group of Islands.
• Important Requirements:
  • Development is necessary to accommodate projected increases in port traffic.
  • The port aims to establish itself as a hub of sea-borne commerce and trade.
• Consequences: Failure to develop may hinder regional trade and economic growth.

Territorial Jurisdiction

• Legal Principle: The order delineates the territorial jurisdiction of the Coron port.
• Key Definitions:
  • Delineation: The specific boundaries of the port are described in a detailed survey format.
• Important Requirements:
  • The delineation includes specific points and measurements outlining the total area, which amounts to 2,574,375.00 square meters.
• Details:
  • The boundary description involves bearings and distances from point to point, ensuring precise geographical limitations.

Administrative Jurisdiction

• Legal Principle: The Coron Port, as defined, is placed under the administrative jurisdiction of the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA).
• Key Responsibilities:
  • The PPA is tasked with implementing programs for zoning, planning, development, and utilization of the port, aligned with government industrial plans.
• Important Requirements:
  • The PPA must ensure compliance with regional development strategies.

Repeal of Inconsistent Orders

• Legal Principle: The order repeals or modifies any prior orders, proclamations, or issuances inconsistent with the provisions of Executive Order No. 544.
• Important Requirements:
  • All conflicting regulations are rendered ineffective, ensuring clarity in governance regarding the Coron port.

Effectivity

• Legal Principle: The Executive Order takes effect immediately upon issuance.
• Important Timeframe:
  • No specified expiration; the order is effective indefinitely until amended or repealed.

Key Takeaways

• Executive Order No. 544 establishes the Coron Port as a critical trade hub, necessitating immediate development to meet increasing traffic demands.
• The precise geographical boundaries of the port are defined to ensure effective administration by the Philippine Ports Authority.
• All prior inconsistent orders are repealed, providing clarity and adherence to the new administrative framework.
• The order is effective immediately, highlighting the government's commitment to enhancing regional trade infrastructure.