Objectives of the Regulations
- Ensure continuous supply of phenotypically and genetically improved seeds and seedlings for various forestry projects.
- Establish a documentation and registry system for seed collection and seedling production.
- Develop accreditation systems for seed production areas and forest nurseries.
- Provide guidelines for establishment, maintenance, and protection of seed production facilities.
- Update seed calendars to guide proper seed collection timings.
Definitions of Key Terms
- Clonal Seed Orchard, Forest Garden, Forest Tree Breeding, Forest Tree Improvement, Forestation, Genotype, Germplasm, Lesser-known Species, Phenotype, Plus Tree, Progeny Test, Propagule, Provenance, Pruning, Roguing, Seedling, Seed Bank, Seed Orchard, Seed Production Area (SPA), Seed Source (SS), Seed Stand, Seedling Seed Orchard (SSO).
- Each term is clearly defined to provide clarity in implementation.
Identification and Management of Seed Production Areas
- Natural stands and plantations assessed, delineated, and documented by Regional Forest Tree Seed Committees (RFTSC).
- Tree cutting within these areas is strictly regulated.
- Protection and maintenance responsibilities fall on DENR regional offices and private owners, coordinated with local government and other stakeholders.
Silvicultural Treatments
- Stand improvement through thinning, roguing, pruning as per approved plans.
- Special care and management practices for Seedling and Clonal Orchards including weeding, roguing, thinning, pruning, fertilization, and flower induction.
- Seed Sources require removal of undesirable vegetation and trees to reduce inbreeding.
Seed Collection Procedures
- Trained individuals authorized by DENR collect seeds from designated areas.
- Private owners may collect seeds from their own identified plantations.
- Collection records maintained and seeds submitted to Seed Storage and Testing Centers.
Seed Storage and Testing
- Establishment of regional Seed Storage and Testing Centers.
- Centers conduct seed germination tests and maintain updated lists of certified seeds.
Seed Disposition
- Seed distribution managed by regional offices based on identified regional needs.
- Inter-region seed exchanges strictly regulated and zonification observed.
- Private seeds disposed only after testing and certification.
Collection of Wildlings
- Allowed within identified SPAs and orchards with proper technique.
- Prohibited in protected areas.
- Wildlings must be replanted within their natural range.
Accreditation of Private Seed Areas and Nurseries
- Applications submitted to DENR offices with detailed documentation on ownership, permits, seed sources, production capacity, and facilities.
- Recommendations made to Regional Executive Directors for approval and issuance of accreditation.
- Accredited entities may enter co-management agreements with DENR.
- Administrative fees apply for nursery accreditation.
- Use of accredited seedling sources required for government projects; encouraged for private.
National Forest Tree Seed Committee (NFTSC)
- Composed of high-level DENR officials and representatives from forestry associations.
- Functions include policy oversight, national planting stock assessment, framework review, import/export regulation recommendations, and funding.
- Supported by a technical working group handling evaluation, accreditation systems, registry maintenance, and framework formulation.
Regional Forest Tree Seed Committees (RFTSC)
- Established in DENR regional offices with members from relevant divisions and local government.
- Responsible for seed source verification, accreditation, and training of personnel at regional level.
Funding and Budget
- DENR to allocate annual funds under appropriate budget lines to support NFTSC and RFTSC mandates.
Penal Provisions
- Illegal cutting, mutilation, or damage of trees in designated areas punishable under existing forestry laws.
Supplementary Guidelines and Repeal
- NFTSC authorized to issue further guidelines.
- Previous inconsistent issuances and regulations repealed or modified accordingly.
Effectivity
- The order takes effect upon acknowledgment by the Office of the National Administrative Register and fifteen days after publication.