Merging Lupong Tagapagpaganap Regions IX and XII

The decree directs the merger to promote economy, efficiency, and effectivity in delivering services to the public.
The decree aims to achieve uniformity in economic, cultural and social development policies and programs in Regions IX and XII.
The decree is intended to form a single Executive Council for more effective governance of areas of autonomy.
The merger is based on the residents’ expressed wish through resolutions of the Sangguniang Pampook of both regions.
The decree reflects implementation steps connected with the Tripoli Agreement as confirmed in a joint communiquA issued on March 24, 1982 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Section 14 of Presidential Decree No. 1618 (dated 25 July 1979) is the governing provision for establishing a Lupong Tagapagpaganap ng Pook for the areas of autonomy.
The decree carries forward the powers and responsibilities defined in Presidential Decree No. 1618 for the existing Lupong Tagapagpaganap ng Pook.
The decree expressly ties the membership structure to Section 14 of Presidential Decree No. 1618.

Section 1 provides for a Lupong Tagapagpaganap that serves as the executive unit for Regions IX and XII.
The Lupong Tagapagpaganap’s composition is the same as the members specified under Section 14 of Presidential Decree No. 1618.
The Lupong Tagapagpaganap is vested with the same powers and responsibilities defined in Presidential Decree No. 1618.
The Lupong Tagapagpaganap’s powers and responsibilities also include those defined by other pertinent laws, executive orders, letters of instructions, and implementing orders and regulations.

Section 2 abolishes the two existing Lupong Tagapagpaganap ng Pook upon the expiration of the terms of office of their present members on 7 May 1982.
Section 2 requires the transfer of all records of the abolished councils to the merged Lupong Tagapagpaganap.
Section 2 requires the transfer of all equipment, buildings, and facilities of the reorganized councils.
Section 2 requires the transfer of all properties of the councils reorganized under this decree.

Section 3 requires that the merging of the two Executive Councils into one Lupong Tagapagpaganap for Regions IX and XII be submitted to the people of those regions in a plebiscite.
The plebiscite must be supervised by the Commission on Elections.
The plebiscite is scheduled for May 17, 1982.
The plebiscite date is set to coincide with the barangay elections.

Section 4 provides that the merged Executive Council shall hold its sessions in Zamboanga City.

Section 5 provides that the decree takes effect immediately.
The decree is completed and signed in the City of Manila on April 05, 1982.