Law Summary

SECTION 1: Extension of Performance of Concessions

• Legal Principle/Provision: This section allows for the extension of terms, conditions, or stipulations in public land, forest, or mineral concessions that could not be performed due to the war prior to the promulgation of this law.
• Key Definitions:
  • Concessions: Public land, forest, or mineral rights granted to individuals or entities.
• Requirements/Procedures:
  • The concessions in question must have been in force as of January 1, 1942.
  • Performance of obligations can be resumed after the approval of this Act.
• Timeframes:
  • The period for compliance shall not exceed the duration set forth in existing laws.
  • Rentals for the concessions will be due upon the resumption of operations, not exceeding one year from the approval date of this Act.
• Consequences: Failure to comply with the stipulated performance timeframe may lead to forfeiture of rights to the concessions.

• Terms and conditions of pre-existing concessions can be performed post-approval of the law. • Compliance period must adhere to existing legal time limits. • Rental payments are triggered by resumption of operations, within one year of the law's approval.

SECTION 2: Extension of Term of Concessions

• Legal Principle/Provision: This section provides for the potential extension of the term of existing concessions if justified by circumstances.
• Key Definitions:
  • Secretary of Agriculture and Commerce: The government official responsible for evaluating the justification for extending concession terms.
• Requirements/Procedures:
  • The extension of the term is contingent upon a finding by the Secretary of Agriculture and Commerce that such an extension is warranted by relevant circumstances.
• Timeframes:
  • The extension period cannot exceed the time from January 1, 1942, to the approval date of this Act.
• Consequences: Extensions are not automatic and require a formal assessment by the Secretary.

• The duration of concessions can be extended based on justified circumstances. • The extension period is limited to the timeframe from January 1, 1942, to the law's approval date.

SECTION 3: Effectivity

• Legal Principle/Provision: This section establishes when the Act becomes effective.
• Timeframes: The Act shall take effect immediately upon its approval.

• The Act is effective from November 1, 1945, the date of approval.

Key Takeaways

• Commonwealth Act No. 720 provides mechanisms for the extension of concession performance and terms due to interruptions caused by war.
• Concessionaires have up to one year from the Act’s approval to resume operations and fulfill rental obligations.
• The Secretary of Agriculture and Commerce plays a critical role in determining the justification for term extensions.
• The Act is effective immediately upon approval, facilitating the resumption of concession activities previously hindered by wartime conditions.