Law Summary
Repeal of Previous Legislation
- Explanation: This section repeals Republic Act No. 2261, which aimed to promote economic development through incentives for marginal and sub-marginal industries.
- Key Definitions:
- Republic Act No. 2261: Former law promoting economic development.
- Important Requirements: The repeal takes effect immediately upon the enactment of this Act.
Prohibition of Barter in International Trade
- Explanation: Barter in international trade is prohibited until the Central Bank adopts full convertibility of total foreign exchange earnings at free market rates.
- Important Requirements:
- Barter transactions must cease immediately upon the effectivity of this Act.
- Relevant Timeframes: No specific timeframes are provided for the implementation of this prohibition beyond the requirement for full convertibility.
Liquidation of Existing Contracts and Transactions
- Explanation: This section mandates the Secretary of Commerce and Industry to oversee the termination of unliquidated contracts and transactions under the repealed law.
- Key Definitions:
- Barter Permits: Authorizations for conducting barter transactions that existed under the previous law.
- Important Requirements:
- A staff will be created to supervise the liquidation.
- Parties involved in existing contracts will have until December 31, 1963, to finalize their transactions.
- A published list of affected contracts and permits will be made available in leading newspapers within one week of the Act's effectivity.
- Relevant Timeframes:
- Deadline for transaction finalization: December 31, 1963.
Benefits and Compensation for Affected Employees
- Explanation: This section provides for the retirement and benefits of employees affected by the repeal of the Producers Incentives Board.
- Key Definitions:
- Gratuity: A payment equivalent to one month's salary for each year of service, capped at twelve months.
- Important Requirements:
- Employees entitled to retire will do so in accordance with existing laws.
- Non-retired employees will receive commutation of vacation and sick leave and gratuity.
- A budget of ₱150,000 is allocated for these payments.
- Priority in filling new positions in the Department of Commerce and Industry will be given to affected employees.
- Relevant Timeframes:
- No specific deadlines provided for the filling of new positions.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
- Explanation: This section outlines the penalties for violating the provisions of the Act.
- Penalties:
- Fines ranging from ₱200 to ₱5,000.
- Imprisonment of 2 months to 5 years.
- Maximum penalties apply to public officers and specific conditions for aliens (immediate deportation).
- Corporate officers (presidents, managing directors) will be held liable for violations.
- Imported articles in violation are subject to seizure and confiscation by the Commissioner of Customs.
General Provisions
- Explanation: This section repeals or modifies any prior inconsistent laws or regulations.
- Important Requirements:
- All inconsistent acts, executive orders, and regulations are repealed or modified accordingly.
Effectivity
- Explanation: The Act takes effect immediately upon approval.
- Important Requirements:
- Approval date: June 20, 1963.
Key Takeaways
- Republic Act No. 3524 prohibits barter in international trade until full foreign exchange convertibility is achieved.
- It repeals the previous law promoting economic incentives for marginal industries.
- Affected contracts must be liquidated by the end of 1963, with a structured approach for employee compensation.
- Violators face significant penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and potential deportations for aliens.
- The Act takes effect immediately upon approval, ensuring swift implementation of its provisions.