FOURTEENTH CONGRESS 
) 
OF THE REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES ) 
FIRST REGULAR SESSION 
lntroduced by Sen. M.A. Madrigal 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Malampaya Sound Protected Landscape and Seascape (MSPLAS) 
covers eighteen (18) barangays in the municipality of Taytay and four (4) 
barangays in the municipality of San Vicente spanning to 200,115 hectares. It is 
surrounded by the municipality of El Nido in the north, municipalities or Roxas, 
San Vicente and Dumaran in the south, South China Sea in the west, and 
barangays Pamantolon, Poblacion, Calauag of the municipality of Taytay in the 
east. 
MSPLAS serves as sanctuary to several rare and endangered wildlife. It 
has one of the largest undisturbed mangrove forest areas in the Philippines. It is 
home to sea cows (Dugong Dugong) which are considered endemic and 
threatened species. It is also a known habitat of the Irrawady Dolphin (Orcaella 
Brevirostris). The adjacent old-growth forests are important watersheds and 
serve as the habitat of Palawan Hornbill, the Bear Cat, the Peacock Peasant and 
other endemic species. 
Due to its biodiversity and ecological significance, it was declared a 
protected area in 2000 through Presidential Proclamation No. 342. 
In line with the State’s policy of securing for the Filipino people of present 
and future generations the perpetual existence of all native plants and animals, it 
is incumbent upon the Congress to enact a law to provide for the management, 
protection, sustainable development and rehabilitation of the MSPLAS. This shall 
be established within the framework of the National Integrated Protected Area 
System (NIPAS) Act, or Republic Act of 7586, while considering the welfare and 
recognizing the rights of all the communities living therein especially the 
indigenous peoples. 
Passage of this Bill is thus urgent before the treasures of Malampaya 
Sound are lost to the Philippines and the world. 


7 JUiV 30 P 3 W  
FOURTEENTH CONGRESS 
1 
FIRST REGULAR SESSION 
1 
OF THE REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES ) 
w 
RECEIVEIS BY : ,- 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. f7E4 
Introduced by Sen. M.A. Madvigal 
AN ACT 
TO ESTABLISH THE MALAMPAYA SOUND SITUATED IN THE 
MUNICIPALITIES OF TAYTAY AND SAN VICENTE, PROVINCE OF 
PALAWAN, AS A PROTECTED AREA PURSUANT TO REPUBLIC ACT NO. 
7586 (NIPAS ACT OF 1992) PROVIDING FOR ITS MANAGEMENT AND 
FOR OTHER PURPOSES 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
ARTICLE I 
TITLE, POLICIES AND OBJECTIVES 
SECTION 1. Title. - This Act shall be known as the "Malampaya Sound Protected 
Landscape and Seascape Act". 
SEC. 2. Declaration ofPolicy. - It is the policy of the State to ensure the protection, 
preservation and rehabilitation of Malampaya Sound Protected Landscape and 
Seascape (MSPLAS), the communities therein, their culture and way of life, 
insofar as they are in harmony with nature and do not alter the ecological 
systems and the magnitude of biological diversity of the area. As a habitat for 
endemic, endangered and unique flora and fauna species and an eco-tourism 
zone, the State shall undertake steps to preserve its integrity for future Filipino 
generations. It shall ensure the protection and conservation of biodiversity of 
Malampaya Sound through sustainable and participatory development, and 
advance and protect the interests of its legitimate inhabitants and honor 
customary laws in accordance with Republic Act No. 7586 (or the "National 
lntegrated Protected Area System Act of 1992", Republic Act No. 8371 (or the 
"Indigenous Peoples Rights Act of 1997"), other pertinent laws, and applicable 
international conventions to which the Philippines is a signatory. 


SEC. 3. Definition ofTerms. - For purposes of this Act: 
(a) “Biodiversity” shall refer to the variety and variability among all living 
organisms and the ecological complex in which they are found; 
(b) ”Bioprospecting” shall refer to the research, collection and utilization 
of biological and genetic resources for the purpose of applying the knowledge 
derived therefrom to make or modify products or processes and their derivatives 
for scientific, agricultural, industrial and other applications; 
(c) ’By-product”shal1 refer to any part taken from wild species such as, 
but not limited to, hides, antlers, feathers, fur, teeth, claws, internal organs, eggs, 
guano, root, trunk, branches, leaves, stems, flowers, and any other item 
produced out of utilizing wildlife or any of its parts; 
(d) ”CITES” shall refer to the Convention on International Trade of 
Endangered Species of wild flora and fauna including all its appendices referring 
to the lists of species differentially regulated therein; 
(e) ”Derivatives” shall refer to anything extracted from wild species such 
as, but not limited to, blood, oils, saliva, musk, resin, gum, seeds, spores, pollen 
and the like; 
(f) ”Endangered species” shall refer to species or subspecies whose 
population is in danger of extinction and whose survival is unlikely if the causal 
factors continue operating; 
(g) ”Endemic species” shall refer to species or subspecies often within the 
geographical limits of the State which has limited distribution; 
(h) “Exotic species” shall refer to species or subspecies which is not 
naturally found within the biogeographic region of the MSPLAS; 
(i) ”Exploration” shall refer to searching or prospecting for mineral 
resources, as defined by law, by geological, geochemical or geophysical surveys, 
remote sensing, test pitting, trenching, drilling, shaft sinking, tunneling or any 
other means for the purpose of determining the existence, extent, quantity and 
quality thereof and the feasibility of mining them for profit; 
(i) “Exploitation” shall refer to any mode of use, extraction, development, 
utilization or disposition of 
resources, for whatever purpose, whether 
commercial or otherwise; 
(k) ”Habitat” shall refer to an area inhabited by wildlife in the natural 
state; 


(I) ”Indigenous cultural communities or indigenous peoples” shall refer to 
indigenous cultural communities or indigenous peoples as defined in Republic 
Act No. 8371 within the MSPLAS; 
(m) ”Indigenous species” shall refer to native Philippine species or 
subspecies with an existing or historical natural occurrence and distribution 
within the MSPLAS: 
(n) ”Large-scale infrastructure projects” shall refer to major port facilities, 
major 
highways, tall edifices, major dams and the like; 
(0) ”Multiple-use zones” shall refer to areas where settlement, traditional 
or sustainable land use, including agriculture, agroforestry, extraction activities 
and other income generating or livelihood activities, may be allowed to the 
extent prescribed in the Management Plan; 
(p) ”Protected area” shall refer to identified portions of land and water set 
aside by reason of their unique physical and biological significance, managed to 
enhance biological diversity and protected against destructive human 
exploitation. Unless otherwise provided, it shall refer to the MSPLAS; 
(4) ”Protected landscape/seascape” shall refer to an area of national 
significance which is characterized by the harmonious interaction of man and 
land while providing opportunities for public enjoyment through recreation and 
tourism within the normal lifestyle and economic activity of the area; 
(r) ”Protected species” shall refer to any plant or animal declared 
protected under Philippine laws, rules and regulations. This shall also include 
plants and animals under CITES, the Bonn Convention on Migratory Species, 
species under the red-list categories of the International Union for the 
Conservation of Nature, and species which may not be considered threatened 
elsewhere but are in danger of extinction within the MSPLAS as determined by 
the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB); 
(s) ”Quarrying” shall refer to the process of extracting, removing and 
disposing quarry resources, as defined by law, found on or underneath the 
surface of private or public land; 
(t) ”Recreational zones” shall refer to areas of high recreational, tourism, 
educational or environmental awareness values where sustainable eco-tourism, 
recreational, conservation education or public awareness activities may be 
allowed as prescribed in the Management Plan; 
(u) ”Secretary” shall refer to the Secretary of the Department of 
Environment and Natural Resources; 


(v) ”Special use zones” shall refer to areas containing existing installations 
of national significance such as telecommunication facilities, irrigation canals or 
electric power lines; 
(w) “Sustainable” shall refer to the use of components of biological 
diversity in a manner and at a rate that does not lead to the decline of the species 
used nor cause permanent or long-term diminishment or qualitative degradation 
of biological species, ecological functions or of other resources extracted or 
disturbed. It shall not pertain to the exploitation of non-renewable resources in 
commercial quantities which will significantly alter the ecosystem or contribute 
to the extinction of species; 
(x) ”Strict protection zones” shall refer to areas with high biodiversity 
value which shall be closed to all human activity except for scientific studies; 
(y) Tenured migrants” shall refer to individuals and households within 
the MSPLAS who have actually and continuously occupied such areas on or 
before July 12,1995 and are substantially dependent therein for subsistence; 
(z) ”Wildlife” shall refer to wild forms and varieties of flora and fauna, 
including captive-bred or propagated individuals, parts, derivatives and by- 
products thereof; and 
(aa) ”Management zones” shall refer to the divisions within the MSPLAS 
into levels of protection and permitted use of natural resources, such as strict 
protection zone, sustainable use zone, restoration zone, habitat management 
zone, multiple-use zone, cultural zone, recreational zone and special use zone, as 
provided under existing rules and regulations. 
SEC. 4. Declaration and Scope. - Pursuant to and in accordance with Republic Act 
No. 7586, the Malampaya Sound situated in the municipalities of Taytay and San 
Vicente, Province of Palawan, is hereby declared and established as a protected 
area and part of the National Integrated Protected Area System under the 
category of Protected Landscape and Seascape as defined herein. It shall be 
referred to as the Malampaya Sound Protected Landscape and Seascape 
(MSPLAS) and its boundaries shall be as follows: 
Beginning at point marked ”1” on DENR NIPAS Map No. - 
at S 
7,33’4.1 I”, E 3058.150 meters more or less, from BLLM No. 2 at 
10’49’46.616 latitude and 119’31’0.383” longitude, Taytay Cadastre, 
Province of Palawan, thence 


thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
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thence 
thence 
thence 
thenCe 
S 
0' 
48' 55.11" 
S 
1 ' 26' 52.55 
S 
23' 
47' 14.00" 
S 
26' 
4' 33.51'' 
S 
9' 51' 17.19" 
S 
25' 
25' 52.50" 
S 
69' 
32' 46.33" 
s 
12' 54' 59.36 
N 
67' 
1'. 45.59 
S 
75' 
22' 37.21" 
S 
83' 
36 35.47" 
N 
35' 
52' 23.26 
S, 88' 
52' 25.40" 
N 45' 
2' 13.84" 
N 
1' 
7' 46.58 
N 
88" 48' 28.94 
S 
40' 
24' 25.31" 
S 
54' 
2' 
2.16" 
s 
54O 
8' 
3.55" 
-3 
88' 
13' 26.37" 
S 
25' 
50' 12.73" 
S 69' 
32' 
7.71" 
S 
lo 
25' 16.98 
S 
25' 
49' 11.92" 
S 
5' 
35' 53.02 
s 
19' 
3' 43.32 
N 
83' 
14' 10.37" 
N 
36' 
50' 12.20" 
N 
32" 55' 37.'15" 
N 
13" 
6' 17.79 
N 
12' 23' 49.11" 
N 
4' 
18' 
9.19" 
W 
E 
E 
W 
w 
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W 
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w 
2,922.33 m 
1,283.91 m 
958.93 m 
1,595.34 m 
1,709.81 m 
14,086.64 m 
4,112.73 m 
5,346.46 m 
12,303.31 m 
3,839.52 m 
2,774.01 m 
2,322.42 m 
13,499.17 rn 
16,060.90 m 
45,652.49 m 
8,174.64 m 
765.31 m 
9,789.75 m 
4,204.90 m 
1,621.76 m 
4,691.18 m 
290.91 m 
641.88 m 
306.17 m 
311.56m 
513.75 m 
617.19 m 
848.35 m 
238.51 m 
249.50 m 
737.71 m 
487.98 rn 
Meters to point 2 
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Meters to point 33 


thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
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thence 
S 
88" 
2' 
2.45 
S 
63' 
36' 28.80 
S 
45' 
6' 20.49" 
S 
I O "  56' 43.56 
S 
8' 
54' 
8.28'! 
S 
63' 
36' 32.46" 
S 40' 
16' 
5.54'' 
N 
88' 
10' 
9.62" 
N 
53' 
16' 49.29" 
s 
75' 
20' 55.87" 
S 
50' 
5 6  33.58" 
N 
87' 
7' 57.28 
N 
54' 
53' 46.89 
N 40' 
44' 13.81" 
N 89' 
32' 41.50" 
S 
40' 
8 
57.14" 
s 
87' 
33' 39.53 
S 
88' 
15' 33.54" 
N 
68" 
3' 15.86 
s 
4" 13' 57.98" 
S 
38' 
0' 27.16 
N 
89' 
32' 
9.31" 
S 
35' 
4 0  43.60 
S 
58' 
9' 
2.50 
S 
22' 
1' 51.31" 
S 
37' 
51' 43.59 
S 
0' 
27' 51.60 
S 
22' 
1' 51.18" 
S 
49' 
31' 29.86 
S 
5' 
I O '  18.64" 
S 
30' 
37' 56.25 
S 
22' 
1' 53.24 
S 
45' 
7' 23.35 
S 
22' 
1' 54.27" 
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45.' 
7' 24.61" 
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27' 
51' 35.06" 
E 
E 
E 
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w 
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262.63 m 
220.56 m 
248.89 m 
360.1 2 m 
336.43 m 
196.06 m 
461.01 m 
459.36 m 
542.45 rn 
339.75 m 
382.64 m 
262.65 m 
544.95 m 
514.67 m 
524.82 m 
1,438.08 m 
1,094.83 m 
1,728.93 m 
1,269.10 m 
166.35 m 
125.61 m 
131.21 m 
189.63 m 
103.51 m 
59.50 rn 
70.53 m 
55.33 m 
59.50 m 
101.33 m 
133.24 m 
217.59 m 
59.50 m 
155.57 rn 
118.99 m 
62.23 m 
138.28 m 
Meters to point 34 
Meters to point 35 
Meters to point 38 
Meters to point 37 
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P 
Meters to point 54 
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thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
thence 
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S 
4' 
14' 34.38 
W 
S 
24' 
17' 31.44" 
W 
S 
0' 
27' 51.72" 
E 
S 
30' 
11' 58.69 
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S 
37' 
51' 49.26 
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S 
15' 
1 8  
7.82 
W 
S 
9' 
6' 30.45" 
E 
S 
22' 
29' 20.77" 
E 
S 
0' 
27' 49.87" 
E 
S 
15' 4 8  48.35" 
E 
S 
45' 
7' 26.05 
E 
S 
17' 
50' 26.72" 
E 
S 
15' 22' 54.42" 
E 
S 
24' 
46' 24.44" 
E 
S 
37' 
27' 
1.79 
E 
S 
34' 
51' 
6.56 
E 
S 
52' 
50' 33.88" 
E 
S 
67' 
23' 43.82" 
E 
S 
50' 
31' 51.87" 
E 
S 
45' 
8 12.72" 
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S 
48' 
0' 
4.47" 
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46' 
24' 40.23" 
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S 
33' 
26' 28.33" 
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29' 57.05" 
E 
133.24 m 
182.79 rn 
165.99 rn 
64.32 m 
70.53 rn 
80.49 m 
145.51 m 
168.25 rn 
88.53 m 
206.56 rn 
155.58 rn 
695.72 rn 
3,950.97 m 
4,517.09 m 
581.85 m 
348.64 rn 
290.04 rn 
225.91 rn 
413.73 rn 
326.77 m 
31 1.42 rn 
350.11 rn 
422.11 m 
7,660.05 in 
Meters to point 70 
Meters to point 71 
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Meters to point 2 
containing an approximate area of two hundred thousand one hundred fifty-five 
(200,255) hectares, subject to actual ground survey. 
All existing land-use and resource-use permits within the MSPLAS shall 
be reviewed and shall not be renewed upon their expiration unless consistent 
with the Management Plan as provided herein and upon approval by the PAMB. 
Extractive resource use within the MSPLAS shall not be deemed to include 
sustainable extraction by indigenous cultural communities or indigenous peoples 
and tenured migrants. 
ARTICLE I1 
MANAGEMENT, MANAGEMENT PLAN AND ZONING 


SEC. 5. Management of the MSPLAS. - The management and administration of 
the MSPLAS shall be vested with the PAMB. The management of zones to be 
established within the MSPLAS shall be consultative and participatory. 
SEC. 6. Management Plan. -Within one (1) year from the effectivity of this Act, a 
Management Plan shall be prepared in accordance with the General 
Management Planning Strategy as provided in Republic Act No. 7586. The 
Management Plan shall serve as the basic long-term framework plan in the 
management of the MSI'LAS and guide in the preparation of the annual 
operations plan and budget. The Management Manual shall be drafted with the 
assistance of experts in such fields as socioeconomic planning, ecology and 
protected area management, reviewed and endorsed by the PAMB, and 
approved by the Secretary. 
The Management Plan shall include the following: 
(A) Executive Summary 
(B) Description of the Protected Area 
(i) Historical Background 
(ii) Biogeographic Setting 
(iii) Regional and Local Setting 
(iv) Topography, Geology and Soils 
(v) Climate 
(vi) Boundaries and Rationale for their Location 
(vii) Flora and Fauna, Habitats and Ecosystems 
(viii) Human Population and Current Land Use 
(ix) Legal Status and Regulations 
(x) Current Management Activities and Research 
(xi) Initial Environmental Examination Report 
(C) Issues 
(i) Conservation Vaiue 
(ii) Biodiversity Concerns 
(iii) Habitat Rehabilitation Needs 
(iv) Management Constraints 
(v) Local Interests, Rights and Concerns 
(vi) Development Potential, including Tourism 
(vii) Changes Required in Legal Status 
(D) Management Plan 
(i) Goals 
(ii) Objectives 
(iii) Key Management Issues 
(iv) Site Management Strategy 
(v) Management Activities 
(a) community organization 
(b) ancestral domain and rights 


(c) tenure for tenured protected area residents 
(d) boundary demarcation 
(e) management zone boundaries and the rationale for each 
(f) protection program by wardens and by the community 
(g) habitat rehabilitation 
(h) habitat management 
(i) sustainable use 
(j) infrastructure, including maintenance 
(k) visitor program and accommodations 
(I) specific management plans for each management zone 
(E) Bio-inventory and Research Program 
(F) Special Studies 
(G) Monitoring and Evaluation 
(H) Management Information Data Base Development 
(I) Administration 
(i) Staffing 
(ii) Work Program 
(iii) Budget 
(J) Annexes 
(i) Maps (1:50,000), pictures, aerial photographs 
(ii) Species lists 
(iii) References 
The Management Plan shall be consistent with the nature of the MSPLAS. 
It shall be reviewed and updated on a regular basis, at least once every three (3) 
years. However, in cases where significant physical development occur within 
the protected area or critical resources constraints prevent implementation of 
important programs or projects, the Plan or some components thereof may be 
revised or modified. Any modification or revision of the Plan shall be approved 
by a majority of PAMB members. 
SEC. 7. Integration of the Management Plan into Local Development Plans. - 
Local government units shall participate in the management of the MSPLAS 
through their representation in the PAMB. The provisions herein shall be 
incorporated into the barangay, municipal and provincial development plans of 
Palawan and the Regional Development Plan of Region IV as part of their 
environmental concerns in order to ensure that the future development of the 
province and the region is in accordance with this Act. Local government units 
shall likewise ensure that local ordinances pertaining to the environment are 
consistent with this Act and the Management Plan, as herein provided. 


SEC. 8. Zoning. - Zones shalI be established within the MSPLAS giving primary 
consideration to the preservation and conservation of all life forms while 
according respect to the traditional areas used and recognized by the indigenous 
cultural communities or indigenous peoples. Zoning shall also take into account 
the tenurial and livelihood concerns of other communities and must ensure the 
efficient protection of habitats, fragile ecosystems and unique areas. 
All primary (old growth) forests within the MSPLAS, including portions 
which have been previously declared as alienable and disposable, shall be 
classified as strict protection zones and shall be free from all forms of logging or 
exploitation, whether commercial or otherwise. However, portions of primary 
forests may be classified as sustainable use zones. Strict protection zones shall 
also be established where necessary for the preservation of biodiversity 
including, but not limited to, the survival of rare and endangered species. 
The establishment and management of zones must involve the community 
concerned by undertaking such steps as dialogue, community-based 
management approach, land and resource-use mapping. 
Multiple-use zones shall be validated on the ground, demarcated on maps 
and monumental in the field with the assistance of communities and agencies 
concerned. 
ARTICLE 111 
THE PROTECTED AREA MANAGEMENT BOARD 
SEC. 9. The Protected Area Management Board. - There is hereby created a Protected 
Area Management Board (PAMB) which shall be the sole policy-making and 
permit-granting body of the MSPLAS. 
In addition to the powers enumerated in Republic act No. 7586, the PAMB 
shall decide by a majority vote and shall have the following powers and 
functions: 
(a) Promulgate rules and regulations to promote development programs 
and projects on biodiversity conservation and sustainable development 
consistent with the Management Manual of the MSPLAS; 
(b) Decide matters relating to planning, resource protection and general 
administration of the MSPLAS in accordance with the approved Management 
Plan; 
(c) Approve proposals, work plans, action plans, and guidelines for 
management of the MSPLAS in accordance with the approved Management 
Plan; 


(d) Delineate and demarcate MSPLAS boundaries and ancestral domains, 
and recognize the rights and privileges of indigenous cultural communities or 
indigenous peoples; 
(e) Ensure the implementation of projects and programs as prescribed in 
the Management Plan; 
(f) Control and regulate the construction, operation and maintenance of 
roads, trails, waterworks, sewerage, fire protection and sanitation systems and 
other public utilities within the MSPLAS; 
(8) Issue land and resource-use permits and all the necessary permits 
within the MSPLAS in accordance with the Management Plan and consistent 
with the nature of the MSPLAS; 
(h) Recommend criteria and set fees for the issuance of permits for the 
activities regulated by this Act or the Management Plan. The PAMB shall only 
issue permits taking into consideration ecological and sustainability factors 
based on the policies provided in Section 2 and 8 of this Act; 
(i) Adopt rules and procedure for the conduct of business, including the 
creation of committees to which the PAMB powers may be delegated; 
(j) Control and supervise the Office of the Protected Area Superintendent 
(PASu); 
(k) Deputize, through the Protected Area Superintendent, individuals for 
the enforcement of the laws, rules and regulations governing conduct within the 
MSPLAS, and prescribe the necessary qualifications therefore; 
(1) Accept donations, approve proposals for funding, budget allocations 
and exercise accountability over all funds that may accrue to the MSPLAS; 
(m) Coordinate with the appropriate agencies of the government; and 
(n) Retain legal counsel to defend cases against the PAMB and the Office 
of the Protected Area Superintendent whenever they are sued in connection with 
the performance of their duties under this Act. 
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources, through the 
Regional Executive Director, shall ensure that the PAMB acts within the scope of 
its powers and functions. In case of conflict between administrative orders issued 
by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources pursuant to Republic 
Act No. 7586 and resolutions issued by the PAMB, the Secretary shall decide 
whether to apply the rule or withdraw its application to the MSPLAS. 
SEC. 10. Composition. - The Board shall be composed of 


(a) The Regional Executive Director (RED) of DENR-Region IV, as 
chairperson; 
(b) One (1) representative from the Palawan Council for SJstainable 
Development (PCSD) as member; 
(c) The mayors of the municipalities of Taytay and San Vicente as members. 
Each mayor may appoint a regular duly authorized representative whenever 
he/she cannot personally attend any of the PAMB meetings; 
(d) The Barangay Captains of barangays whose territory, in whole or in part, 
is within the boundaries of the MSPLAS as members; 
(e) The Provincial Planning and Development Officer of Palawan as member; 
(f) The Provincial Tourism Officer of Palawan as member; 
(g) Three (3) representatives from the non-governmental organizations 
operating within the MSPLAS, chosen from among themselves as members; 
(h) Three (3) representatives from the people's organizations within the 
MSPLAS, chosen from among themselves, as members; 
(i) Three (3) representatives from the indigenous cultural communities or 
indigenous peoples residing within the MSPLAS as member; and 
(j) The Protected Area Superintendent as ex-officio member. 
In the selection of 
peoples' and non-government organizations' 
representatives, preference shall be accorded to those organizations involved in 
the conservation and protection of the MSPLAS and engaged in the field of 
developmental work. The representation of peoples and non-government 
organizations shall be institutional and shall endeavor to achieve geographic 
balance. 
In addition to actual and necessary traveling and subsistence expenses 
incurred in the performance of their duties, PAMB members shall be entitled to 
honorarium and insurance coverage in attending PAMB or other PAMB 
committee meetings. These expenses shall be included in the budget for the 
MSPLAS. 
SEC. 11. The Executive Committee. - There shall be an Executive Committee 
within the PAMB to which the PAMB may delegate some of its powers and 
functions. It shall be composed of: 
(a) The Regional Executive director as chairperson; 


(b) The representative from the Palawan Council for Sustainable 
Development (PCSD) as member; 
(c) One (1) mayor to be chosen from among the mayors of the municipalities 
comprising the MSPLAS as member; 
(d) One (1) Barangay Captain to be chosen from among the barangay captains 
of barangays whose territory, in whole or in part, is within the boundaries of 
the MSPLAS, as member; 
(e) Either one (1) between the Provincial Planning and Development Officer 
or the Provincial Tourism Officer as designated by the Provincial Governor, 
as member; 
(f) One of the representatives from the peoples' organizations as member; 
(g) One of the representatives from the non-governmental organizations as 
member; 
(h) One representative from the indigenous cultural communities or 
indigenous peoples; and 
(i) The Protected Area Superintendent as ex officio member. 
Membership in the Executive Committee shall be co-terminous with 
membership in the PAMB. The PAMB may create other committees within the 
Board. 
The PAMB en banc shall hold meetings at least twice a year. However, the 
Executive Committee may meet on a regular basis to discuss day-to-day affairs 
and other matters delegated by the PAMB. 
SEC. 12. Terms of Office. - Except for government officials who shall serve ex 
officio, PAMB members shall serve for a term of five (5) years: Provided, That 
they remain connected with the sector they represent. Whenever a vacancy 
occurs during the term of a member who does not represent the government, a 
new member shall be chosen who shall serve only the remaining term. 
SEC. 13. Removal from Office. - A PAMB member may be removed for cause and 
upon majority vote on the following grounds: 
(a) More than three (3) consecutive unexcused absences in regular PAMJ3 en 
banc meetings; 
(b) Commission of any of the prohibited acts a provided in this Act, Republic 
Act No. 7586 or other rules and regulations governing protected areas and 
protected species; 


(c) Graft and corruption; and 
(d) Conviction of any criminal offense 
SEC. 14. The Protected Area Superintendent Office. - There shall be a Protected 
Area Superintendent (PASu) Office within the Department of Environment and 
Natural Resources to be headed by the Protected Area Superintendent who shall 
serve as Chief Operating DENR Officer of the entire MSPLAS. The Protected 
Area Superintendent and hisiher staff shall reside within the protected area and 
establish office therein. 
The Protected Area Superintendent shall have full responsibility for the 
protection of land, water, wildlife and other resources within the MSPLAS. As 
such, he/she shall have the following duties and responsibilities in addition to 
those provided under existing rules and regulations: 
(a) Prepare the Management Plan as herein provided; 
(b) Serve as Secretariat to the PAMB with the duty to provide the PAMB 
with all the information neclcssary to make appropriate decisions for the 
implementation of this Act; 
(c) Hire and supervise the necessary personnel to support operations as 
the budget may allow; 
(d) Establish a productive partnership with local communities including 
groups supporting the achievement of the goals and objectives of this Act; 
(e) Develop and implement a MSPLAS information, education and visit or 
programs; 
(f) Enforce the laws, rules and regulations and PAMB resolutions relevant 
to the MSPLAS, and assist in the prosecution of offenses; 
(g) Monitor all activities within the MSPLAS in conformity with the 
Management Plan; and 
(h) Perform such other function as the PAMB may assign. 
ARTICLE 1V 
ANCESTRAL LANDS AND DOMAINS AND TENURED MIGRANTS 
SEC. 15. Ancestral Lands and Domains. - The rights of indigenous cultural 
communities or indigenous peoples in the MSPLAS to their ancestral lands and 
domains shall be fully recognized. Their traditional property regimes exercised 
in accordance with their customary laws shall govern the relationship of all 
individuals within their communities with respect to all land and resources 


found within the ancestral lands and domains traditionally used by them. They 
may apply for Certificates of Ancestral Domain Title (CADT) as provided for in 
Republic Act No. 8371. 
The provisions of this Act shall be construed liberally in favor of the 
indigenous cultural communities or indigenous peoples in accordance with the 
preservation and conservation objectives of the MSPLAS and its resources. 
Nothing herein shall be construed to impair or diminish prior and existing 
rights currently enjoyed by the indigenous cultural communities or indigenous 
peoples as provided for by existing laws. 
SEC. 16. Tenured Migrants. - Whenever practicable, tenured migrants shall be 
provided tenurial rights over their current habitation sites. However, if these 
areas are subsequently identified as crucial for conservation, tenured migrants 
shall, after due consultation, be offered by the Department alternative sites 
within the appropriate zones with preference over non-tenured migrants. 
Provisions for their transfer shall be undertaken by the Department in 
coordination with PAMB and relevant government agencies using humanitarian 
considerations including payment of compensation, providing tenure to 
alternative land and facilities of equivalent standard, and other measures to 
reach agreement with the affected tenured migrants. 
The grant of tenurial rights must take into account the need to promote 
clustering and to avoid unnecessary displacement. In areas where tenurial 
instruments are granted, appropriate use zones shall be established for the 
purpose of maintaining noncommercial livelihood activities. 
Lands used as homelots or farmlots shall preferably be held by individual 
household. Lands currently used on a communal basis shall not be held 
individually. 
Tenurial instruments shall not be issued solely on the basis of tax 
declaration receipts. The PAMB shall consider the following as evidence in 
support of tenured migrant status: 
(a) Cultivated trees at their fruit-bearing stage; 
@) Physical structure in the area indicating prolonged occupancy; 
(c) Certification from the Barangay Captain or any two (2) respected members 
of the nearest community attesting to occupancy; and 
(d) Other relevant data (e.g. previous census reports) that may be accepted by 
the PAMB. 


Existing land title instruments shall bc reviewed by the Protected Area 
Superintendent and endorsed by the PAMB to the DENR Regional Office for 
validation or reversion. 
All persons who fail to qualify as tenured migrants including transient 
farmers shall be allowed to gather and collect whatever they have planted within 
five (5) years from the effectivity of this Act. Any transfer of non-tenured 
migrants from the MSPLAS shall be undertaken being humanitarian 
considerations. 
In the event of termination of a tenure instrument for cause or by 
voluntary surrender of rights, the Protected Area Superintendent shall take 
immediate steps to rehabilitate the area in order to return it to its natural state 
prior to the cultivation or other act by the tenured migrant 
SEC. 17. Contract involving Lands within the MSPLAS. - Any purchase, sale, 
encumbrance, mortgage, usufruct, or any form of disposition, alienation or 
transfer of rights involving lands within the MSPLAS shall be restricted among 
tenured migrants or indigenous cultural communities or indigenous peoples, 
otherwise, it shall be null and void ab initio. 
Lease of lands to persons not otherwise qualified to hold lands within the 
MSPLAS may only take place in Multiple Use, Recreation and Special Use Zones. 
Provided, That the use thereof is consistent with Section 2 of this Act and in 
accordance with the Management Plan: Provided, further, That persons not 
otherwise prohibited to hold lands within the MSPLAS may enter into joint 
venture agreements with the government. 
ARTICLE V 
UTILIZATION OF RESOURCES AND FACILITIES 
SEC. 18. Utilization of Resources. - Except for protected species or whenever 
detrimental to the ecosystem, use of resources derived from the MSPLAS by 
tenured migrants and indigenous cultural communities or indigenous peoples 
for their domestic needs or for their subsistence shall be permitted. Livelihood 
activities requiring the use of these resources shall be allowed only when 
sustainable, consistent with the Management Plan, and after prior PAMB 
approval. Only non-timber forest products can be used for livelihood purposes. 
The PAMB is authorized to impose regulatory measures such as hunting 
moratoria, closed hunting seasons and other restrictions on the use of resources 
within the MSPLAS to ensure the sustainability of species and ecosystems: 
Provided, Thai these will not pose a threat to the food security of the indigenous 
cultural communities or indigenous peoples or tenured migrants directly 
dependent therein for their subsistence: Provided, further, that these restrictions 
shall be made upon due consultation with the indigenous cultural communities 
or indigenous peoples and tenured migrants. 


Any exploration, exploitation or utilization of non-renewable resources 
within the MSPLAS for commercial purposes or by those who are not members 
of the indigenous cultural communities or indigenous peoples or tenured 
migrants shall not be allowed. 
Energy projects within the MSPLAS shall be allowed only through an act 
of Congress except energy from wind, sun, waves and water resources: 
Provided, That in all instances, the primary beneficiaries shall be residents of 
MSPLAS: Provided, further, That it shall undergo the Environmental Impact 
Assessment System as provided by law: Provided, finally, That the PAMB has 
endorsed the project. 
Commercial exploitation of water resources within the MSPLAS shall 
require prior PAMB approval, must be in accordance with the Management Plan 
and should undergo the Environmental Impact Assessment System. 
SEC. 19. Existing Facilities within the MSPLAS. - Within ninety (90) days 
from the effectivity of this Act, all existing commercial facilities within the 
MSPLAS with a total capitalization in excess of Fifty thousand pesos (P50,000.00) 
shall submit to the PAMB through the Protected Area Superintendent the 
following information: 
(a) Potential for disturbance of protected species and their habitat, 
reproductive cycle, nesting and feeding grounds and migratory paths: 
(b) Noise levels at all stages of operation; 
(c) Emissions and effluent at all stage of operation; 
(d) Energy requirements and sources of energy; and 
(e) Requirements of water supply and resources of water. 
Based on these submissions, the PAMB, with the assistance of the DENR 
shall determine whether the existence of such facilities and its future plans and 
operations will be detrimental to the MSPLAS. 
Failure to submit the required information shall constitute a violation of 
this Act. The PAMB may prescribe other conditions for the operation of the 
facility to ensure that it does not contradict the management objectives of the 
MSPLAS. If any such conditions are violated, a fine of FIVE THOUSAND PESOS 
(P5,000.00) for every day violation shall be imposed upon the owners of said 
facility but not to exceed a total of Four hundred fifty thousand pesos 
(P450,000.00). Whenever necessary, the PAMB through the Protected Area 
Superintendent or other government entities shall cause the cessation and 
demolition of the facility at any time at the cost of its owners. 


Existing facilities allowed to remain within the MSPLAS shall be charged 
a fee by the PAMB, which shall not be more than two percent (2%) of the annual 
gross income of the facility. 
ARTICLE VI 
PROHIBITED ACTS AND PENALTIES 
SEC, 20. Prohibited Acts. - The following acts shall be prohibited within 
the MSPLAS without prejudice to the application of pertinent laws and 
Hunting, collecting, catching, capturing, wounding, killing, 
destroying or possessing anywhere within the MSPLAS any 
protected species of plant or animal or their by-products or 
derivatives without prior PAM6 approval; 
Hunting, collecting, catching, capturing, wounding, killing or 
destroying anywhere within the MSPLAS any other species of plant 
and animal or their by-products or derivatives the trade of which is 
regulated by the PAMB; 
Bioprospecting without prior PAMB approval; 
The disturbance of protected species or their habitats, reproductive 
cycle, roosting and feeding grounds and migratory paths; 
Unauthorized cutting, gathering, collecting or removal of timber or 
other forest products: Provided, That any authorization issued shall 
only be valid for one (I) year at a time and given to (i) tenured 
migrants within sustainable, monitored and controlled quotas, and 
(ii) for scientific purposes necessary for protected area management 
in accordance with existing guidelines; 
Establishment or introduction of exotic species within the MSPLAS 
with harmful effects or those detrimental to endemic species, 
without prior PAMB approval; 
Exploration, exploitation or extraction, drilling or extracting for 
minerals or resources or engage in quarrying within the MSPLAS; 
Destroying, excavating, vandalizing or in any manner damaging 
any natural formation on land or sea, burial or religious/spiritual 
rites, 
artifacts, 
objects 
belonging 
to 
indigenous 
cultural 
communities or indigenous peoples and other objects of natural 
and scenic value; 
Unauthorized possession or use of blasting caps, explosives, or 
cyanide anywhere within the MSPLAS; 
Unauthorized possession or use of chain saws or band saws 
anywhere within the Strict Protection Zone of MSPLAS; 
Unauthorized use of motorized equipment anywhere within the 
Strict Protection Zone of MSPLAS; 
Unauthorized construction or maintenance of any kind of road, 
edifice, facility or any infrastructure project within the MSPLAS; 
Unauthorized occupation of any portion of land inside the 
MSPLAS; 


Clearing, construction of' residence or any introduction of 
improvements shall constitute prima facie evidence of occupation 
or settlement; 
Alteration, removal, willful destruction of boundary marks or 
interpretative signals; 
Engaging in kaingin or in any manner causing a forest fire inside 
the MSPLAS; 
Unauthorized fishing anywhere within the MSPLAS; 
Fishing within the MSPLAS using spear and submerged 
underwater breathing apparatus, trawling equipment or gillnets of 
more than 100 meters in total length or any other equipment 
prohibited under Republic Act No. 8550 or the Fisheries Code of 
1998; 
Destruction or in any manner damaging coral reefs except in cases 
of emergency; 
Introduction, disposal, dumping or causing to be dumped in the 
MSPLAS any waste material, including but not limited to, non- 
biodegradable, toxic, nuclear, hazardous and other prohibited 
substances; and 
Violation of any rules and regulations provided in the Management 
Plan or any resolution reached by the PAMB in the exercise of its 
adjudicative functions. 
SEC. 21. Penalties. - (a) For any violation of the provisions of Section 20 
hereof, a fine of not less than Five thousand pesos (P5,000.00) but not more than 
Five hundred thousand pesos (P500,000.00) and/or imprisonment of not less than 
one (1) year but not more than six (6) years shall be imposed. 
(b) Any provision to the contrary notwithstanding, the commission of any 
unlawful act as provided under the immediately preceding section shall carry 
the penalty of imprisonment of six (6) years and one (1) day to twelve (12) years, 
and a minimum fine of One million pesos (Pl,000,000.00) in case the species 
involved is listed under CITES Appendix I, Seven hundred fifty thousand pesos 
(P750,OOO.OO) for the species listed under CITES Appendix 11, and Five 
hundred thousand pesos (P500,OOO 00) for all threatened species, in addition to 
the accessory penalties provided in the immediately succeeding paragraph. 
(c) The commission of any of the foregoing acts shall likewise carry the 
accessory penalties of eviction from the MSPLAS, payment of damages for 
rehabilitation and restoration, and the forfeiture of all equipment, devices, 
weapons or any other instrument or tool used in the commission of the offense. 
Any resource found in the possession of the offender shall also be forfeited. 
Pending the outcome of the case, any resource confiscated shall be immediately 
turned over to the PAMB for proper disposal and the proceeds thereof deposited 
in a trust fund. In no case shall any confiscated or rescued protected animal 
species be sold or in any manner disposed of but shall be immediately turned 
over to the Protected Area Superintendent Office for release in its natural habitat. 
Valuation of the damage to the MSPLAS shall take into account biodiversity and 


conservation considerations as well as aesthetic, socio economic values and 
rehabilitation and restoration costs. Failure to comply with this provision shall 
constitute an offense under this sub-section. 
(d) A fine of not less than One hundred twenty thousand pesos 
(P120,OOO.OO) but not more than Six hundred thousand pesos (P600,OOO.OO) 
and/or imprisonment of not less than one (1) year but not more than six (6) years 
shall be imposed upon forest rangers or deputized personnel of the PAMB who 
shall unjustifiably refuse or refrain from instituting prosecution or shall tolerate 
the commission of the above mentioned offenses. Conviction of this offense shall 
carry penalty of perpetual disqualification from public office. 
(e) A fine of not less than One hundred pesos (P100.00) but not more than 
One thousand pesos (Pl,OOO.OO), or community service form one (1) day to one 
(1) week, or both, shall be imposed on anyone who enters into the Strict 
Protection Zone of the MSPLAS without prior PAMB permit. 
ARTICLE VI1 
PROCEEDS, FEES AND APPROPRIATIONS 
SEC. 22. Integrated Protected Area Fund. - The Integrated Protected Area 
Fund (IPAF) is hereby established for the purpose of promoting the sustained 
financing the System. The fund may receive revenues generated within protected 
areas, donor support and other funds as provided by law, and disburse the same 
to finance projects of the National Integrated Protected Area System. IPAF 
income shall, among others, be derived from the following sources: 
(a) Fees or taxes derived from permitted collection of flora and fauna and 
other resources within the MSPLAS other than protected species as may be set by 
the DENR and the PAMB; 
(b) Proceeds from the lease of land and foreshore areas within multiple- 
use and recreational zones and permitted resource utilizations including 
commercially operated facilities within the MSPLAS; 
(c) Fees, royalties and contributions from industries and facilities directly 
benefiting from resources originating from the MSPLAS; 
(d) Fines and fees, including protected area entry and visitor’s fees, as may 
be collected from the operation of the MSPLAS and set by the PAMB; 
(e) Donations, endowments, grants and other gratuitous sums received 
from legal sources for the purposes of the management and conservation of the 
MSPLAS: Provided, That lawful onerous conditions attached to the donations 
shall be respected: Provided, further, That these conditions shall be subject to 
review by the DENR Secretary; and 


(f) Such other revenues as may be derived from the operation of the 
protected areas. 
Current sources of revenue of the local government units shall be 
excluded from the IPAF. 
The PAMB shall have the power to disburse the IPAF. Twenty-five percent 
(25%) of the IPAF shall be for the use of the National Government for the support 
of the National integrated Protected Areas System: Provided, That twenty-five 
percent (25%) thereof, excluding item (e) above, shall be allocated to the local 
government units comprising the MSPL.AS. 
SEC. 23. Appropriations. - There is hereby appropriated the amount of 
Twenty million pesos (P20,000,000.00) for the first five (5) years from the 
effectivity of this Act to be included in the annual appropriations of the 
Department of Environment and Natural Resources. Thereafter, such sums as 
may be necessary for the implementation of this Act shall be sourced from the 
IPAF. It shall be included in the annual General Appropriations Act if not 
sufficient. 
ARTICLE VI11 
TRANSITORY AND MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS 
SEC. 24. Construction. - The provisions of this Act shall be construed 
liberally in favor of indigenous cultural communities or indigenous peoples and 
tenured migrants and in harmony with the principles of protection and 
conservation of biodiversity. Republic Act No. 7586 shall have suppletory effect 
in the implementation of this Act. 
SEC. 25. Transitory Provisions. - In order to ensure the sustainability and 
recovery of biodiversity and to develop sustainable livelihood opportunities for 
tenured migrants, the DENR shall henceforth cease to issue concessions, licenses, 
permits, clearances, compliance documents or any other instrument that allows 
exploitation of resources within the MSPLAS until the Management Plan shall 
have been put into effect. 
Pending the organization of a new PAMB in accordance with this Act, the 
incumbent PAMB members shall continue to hold office until a new PAMB has 
been convened. 
SEC. 26. Separability Clause. - If any part or section of this Act is declared 
unconstitutional or invalid, such other parts or sections not affected thereby shall 
remain in full force and effect. 
SEC. 27. Repealing Clause. - All laws, decrees, proclamations, executive 
orders, rules and regulations inconsistent with any provisions of this Act shall be 
deemed repealed or modified accordingly. 


SEC. 28. Effectivity Clause. -This Act: shall be translated in Filipino by the 
Department of Environment and Natural Resources within thirty (30) days from 
the date of approval hereof. It shall be published once a week for three (3) 
consecutive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation readily available in the 
areas in and around the MSPLAS. It shall likewise be conspicuously posted 
simultaneously in the provincial, municipal and barangay halls within the 
MSPLAS as well as in three other places frequented by the public. Fifteen (15) 
days after the last publication and posting, this Act shall have full force and 
effect. 
Approved,