Expedited Hearing and Decision Process
- Conflicts must be heard within one week after issues are joined.
- Investigations are summary and preferably completed in one sitting.
- Reports and recommendations submitted to the Director of Mines within five days after investigation.
- Director of Mines must decide the case within five days after receiving the report.
Filing of Adverse Claims and Effect on Ongoing Proceedings
- Claimants involved in existing litigations are given 15 days from publication of specific amendments and lists to file adverse claims with the Bureau of Mines.
- Proceedings aim for final adjudication on rights over mining claims, including exploration and exploitation.
- Judicial conflicts do not suspend or prejudice possession, exploration, or exploitation awarded by relevant authorities.
- Compliance with Mines Administrative Order No. 50 on escrow deposits is required for protection of interests in disputed claims.
Panel of Investigators in the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources
- Similar panel created in the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, appointed by the President on Secretary’s recommendation.
- Panel handles further investigations on appeals from decisions/orders of the Director of Mines.
- Same procedural requirements and limitations as the Bureau of Mines panel apply.
Appeal Procedures and Finality of Decisions
- Parties may appeal Director of Mines decisions to the Secretary of Agriculture and Natural Resources within 5 days.
- Secretary must decide appeals within 5 days after receiving the appeal or investigator panel’s report.
- Further appeal may be taken to the President within 5 days; the President’s decision is final and executory.
- Decisions by the Director of Mines are immediately executory despite appeals unless otherwise directed.
Duties and Relief of Panel Members
- Panel members should be relieved from ordinary duties to focus on investigations and report preparation.
Rulemaking Authority
- Secretary of Agriculture and Natural Resources empowered to issue rules and regulations to implement and enhance effectiveness of the decree.
Repeal and Modification of Conflicting Laws
- Existing laws, orders, rules, or regulations inconsistent with this decree are repealed or modified accordingly.
Effectivity
- The decree takes effect immediately upon signing.
Issuances for Implementation
- Letter of Instruction No. 135 issued by the Office of the President.
- Mines Administrative Order No. V-49 (Adm.), dated January 15, 1974, issued by the Bureau of Mines concerning summary investigation procedures for mining claim conflicts.