Legal basis and related issuances
- Presidential Decree No. 3-A requires that all reclamation of areas shall be limited to the National Government of any person authorized by it under a proper contract.
- Presidential Decree No. 1084 creates the Public Estates Authority as a government corporation to undertake reclamation of lands and ensure their maximum utilization in promoting public welfare and interest.
- Presidential Decree No. 1416 provides the President continuing authority to reorganize the national government, including the transfer, abolition, or merger of functions and offices.
- Executive Order No. 525 builds on Presidential Decree No. 1084 by expanding PEA’s powers and functions for reclamation projects.
Policy and institutional purpose
- The Government policy is to provide for a coordinated, economical and efficient reclamation of lands.
- The Government must evaluate ongoing and proposed reclamation projects in various parts of the country for consistency with national programs.
- A central authority is needed to act for the National Government to ensure a coordinated and integrated approach in the reclamation of lands.
Scope: reclamation coverage and responsible actor
- PEA is primarily responsible for integrating, directing, and coordinating all reclamation projects for and on behalf of the National Government.
- All reclamation projects are approved by the President upon recommendation of PEA.
- Reclamation projects undertaken for the National Government are undertaken by PEA or through a proper contract executed by PEA with any person or entity.
- Reclamation projects of any national government agency or entity authorized under its charter are undertaken in consultation with PEA upon approval of the President.
Core substantive rules on approval and contracting
- The President approves every reclamation project upon recommendation of PEA.
- Reclamation projects must be undertaken by PEA or through a proper contract executed by PEA with any person or entity.
- National government agencies or charter-authorized entities must undertake their reclamation projects in consultation with PEA before commencement, after President approval.
- PEA performs its reclamation functions for and on behalf of the National Government.
PEA powers and functions under the order
- Executive Order No. 525 requires PEA, in addition to Presidential Decree No. 1084, to:
- Provide the President advice and assistance in the formulation, implementation, and evaluation of plans or policies relative to all reclamation projects to maximize contributions to national development.
- Issue rules and regulations, including identifying requirements necessary for the evaluation and sound administration of all reclamation projects.
- Establish and implement a system of coordination with all concerned government agencies and monitor the progress of all reclamation projects.
- Perform other functions as the President directs.
Ownership and disposition of reclaimed lands and income
- Lands reclaimed by PEA belong to and are owned by PEA.
- PEA is responsible for the administration, development, utilization, or disposition of reclaimed lands under Presidential Decree No. 1084.
- Income derived by PEA from the sale, lease, or use of reclaimed lands must be used in accordance with Presidential Decree No. 1084.
Transmittal details and formalization
- The order is DONE in the City of Manila on February 14, 1979.
- The President who signs is FERDINAND E. MARCOS.
- The order is attested by JACOBO C. CLAVE, Presidential Executive Assistant.