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THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE } 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES } 
Third Regular Session 
1 
SENATE 
S. No. 
(In substitution of S. No. 2047) 
Prepared joMy by the Committees on Environment and Nafural Resources and finance, .with 
Senator Cavetano and the members of the Committees as authors 
AN ACT 
PROVINCE OF PALAWAN AS A PROTECTED AREA, PROVIDING FOR ITS 
MANAGEMENT AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES 
ESTABLISHING THE TUBBATAHA REEF NATIONAL MARINE PARK IN THE 
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 “Tubbataha Reef Natural Park 
of 2006”. 
SEC. 2. Land Classification. - All lands of the public domain comprising the 
Malampaya Sound Protected Landscape and Seascape shall fall under the classification 
of National Park as provided for in the Philippine Constitution. However, public lands 
already classified as agricultural and alienable or disposable prior to the passage of this 
Act shall remain as such and may be disposed of pursuant to the provisions of 
Commonwealth Act No. 141 or the Public Land Act, as amended. 
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SEC. 3. Declaration and Scope. - The Tubbataha Reef National Marine Park 
(TRNMP), which shall cover an approximate area of 87,654,967 hectares and which shall 
include the Tubbataha Reefs and Jessie Beazley Reef in the Province of Palawan is 
hereby declared as a protected area. Its boundaries shall be as follows: 
From 
to 
to 
to 
to 
to 
Pt. 1 1194610” latitude 904‘52 longitude 
Pt. 2 119’48’22” latitude 9’06’05” longitude 
Pt. 3 120’03’12 latitude 8’58’09” longitude 
Pt. 4 12003’30” latitude 8’53’29” longitude 
Pt. 5 119’50’41” latitude 8’41’33 longitude 
Pt. 6 119’45’46 latitude 8’43’09” longitude 
SEC. 4. Definition of Terms. -For purposes of this Act, the following terms shall be 
defined as follows: 
1. “BFAR shall refer to the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resource of the 
Department of Agriculture. 
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2. “Bioprospecting” shall refer to research, collection and utilization of biological 
and genetic resources for purposes of applying the knowledge derived there from solely 
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for commercial purposes. 
3. ”Commercial fishers/fisherfolk shall refer to persons who catch fish and other 
fishery products using fishing vessels of more than three (3) gross tons. However, the 
Executive Committee, as provided herein, may meet on a more regular basis to discuss 
regular day-today affairs and other matters delegated by the TMB. 
4. “Coral” shall refer to all bottom dwelling animals under the phylum Cnidaria, 
which are a major part of the reef community. The definition includes four types of corals, 
(1) those that produce a hard skeleton out of calcium carbonate such as all scleractinian 
corals, the hydrozoan corals (firecorals), and the blue and red corals under the genera 
Heliopora and Tubipora; (2) the antipatharian or black corals with a rigid, chitinous 
skeleton; (3) the gorgomans with a horny andlor Calcareous axis; and (4) the soft bodied 
anthozoans such as sea anemones, and the soft corals under the systematical group of 
Alcyonaria or Octocorallia. 
5. “DA shall refer to the Department of Agriculture. t 
6. “DENR shall refer to the Department of Natural Resources. 
7. “DOJ” shall refer to the Department of Justice. 
8. “Electro-fis hing” shall refer to the use of electricity generated by batteries, 
electric generator ar;d other source of electric power to kill, stupefy, disable or render 
unconscious aquatic organisms, whether of not the same are subsequently recovered. 
9. “Exotic species” shall refer to species or subspecies that do not nakally occur 
within the biogeograplhic region of the TRNMP at present or in historical time. 
10. “Explosives” shall refer to dynamite, other explosives or other chemical 
compounds that contain combustible elements or ingredients which upon ignition by 
friction, concussion, percussion or detonation of all or parts of the compound will kill, 
stupefy, or disable or render unconscious any species. It also refers to the any other 
substance and/or device, including blasting caps or any other component or part of 
explosive devices, which causes an explosion that is capable of producing the said 
harmful effects on any resources and capable of damaging and altering the natural 
habitat. 
11. “Gear” shall refer to any instrument or device and its accessories utilized in 
taking, catching, gatliering, killing, hunting, destroying, disturbing, removing or 
possessing resources Miithin the TRNMP. 
12. “Kayakas” sk iall refer to the fishing method known as the local version of the 
mUrO-ami but smaller in size, using bamboo or trunk trees as scaring devices aside from 
coconut or other leaves or materials to drive the fishes and other marine resources out of 
the coral reefs while at tt l e  same time pounding the corals. 
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13. “Litter or Littering” shall refer to the disposal of small amount of non 
biodegradable solid waste materials, such as cigarette butts, candy wrappers, plastic 
bags, bottles, glasses, in the TRNMP which may cause or contribute to the deterioration 
of the resources or habitats in the TRNMP. 
14. “Municipal fishers/fisherfolk shall refer to persons ‘who catch fish and other 
fishery products using fishing vessels of three (3) gross tons or less, or whose fishing 
does not require the use of fishing vessels. 
15. “Muro-ami” shall refer to the method used in reef fishing consisting of a 
movable 
bagnet, 
detachable 
wings 
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scarelines 
having 
plastic 
strips 
and/iron/steel/stone weights, effecting fish capture by spreading the net in an arc around 
reefs or shoals and; with the use of the scarelines, a cordon of people drive the fish 
towards the waiting net while pounding the corals by means of heavy weights like 
iron/steel/stone or rock making it destructive to corals. 
16. “Non-Government Organization (NGO)” shall refer to any civic, developmental, 
environmental or philanthropic non-stock, non-profit organization, duly registered, having 
by-. laws, democratically-elected representatives, with qualifications, expertise and 
objectivity in activities concerning community organizing and development, or resource 
and environmental. conservation, management and protection related to the protected 
area. 
17. “Noxious or Poisonous Substances” shall refer to any substance, plant extracts 
or juice thereof, sodium cyanide andlor cyanide compounds or other chemicals either in 
raw or processed form, harmful or harmless to human beings, which will kill, stupefy, 
disable or render unconscious any marine organism and capable and altering the natural 
habitat. 
18. “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. 
19. “PAMB” shall refer to the Protected Area Management Board as provided for in 
Republic Act 7586, otherwise known as the National Integrated Protected Areas System 
Act. 
20. “PCSD’ shall refer to. the Palawan Council for Sustainable Deyelopment as 
created under Republic Act 761 1, otherwise known as the Strategic Environrnental Plan 
for Palawan Act. 
21. “People’s Organization (PO)” shall refer to a group of people whidh may be an 
association, cooperative, federation, aggrupation of individuals or groups with 4 
identifiable structure of decision-making and accountability, established to undertake 
collective action to address community concerns and needs in relation to the protected 
area. 
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22. “PM’ shall refer to the Park Manager of the TRNMP. 
23. “Protected species” shall refer to any plant or animal declared protected under 
Philippine laws, rules and regulations. These shall include all species listed under the 
Convention of International Trade of Endangered Species (CITES) and all its Annexes, 
the B o 4 Convention on Migratory Animals, those specified under the red-list categories 
of the /International Conservation of Nature (IUCN), or any plant or animal which the TMB 
or and government agency may deem necessary for conservation and preservation in the 
TRNMP. 
24. “Purse Seine” shall refer to the gear characterized by encircling net at the 
bottom passing through rings attached to the net, which can be drawn or pursued. In 
general, the net is set from a boat or boats around the school of aquatic resources. The 
bottom of the net is pulled closed with the purse line. The net is then pulled aboard the 
boat or boats until the resources are concentrated in the bunt or bag. 
25. “Resources” shall refer to all natural endowments, whether aquatic or 
terrestrial, living or non-living, found in TRNMP. 
26. “Stakeholders” shall refer to any individuals, communities, agencies, 
institutions, organizations, aggrupations of specific interests or sectors which have 
particular interest in the achievement of the objectives of this Act, and/or enjoyment or 
utilization in any form of the resources within the TRNMP. 
27. “TMO shall refer to the Tubbataha Management Office. 
28. “Trawl” shall refer to the gear consisting of a bag-shaped net which is dragged 
or towed along the bottom or through the water column to take aquatic resources by 
straining them from the water, including all variations and modifications of trawls in 
bottom, mid-water, baby trawls and tow nets. 
29. “TMB’ shall refer to the Tubbataha Management Board. 
30. “TRNMP shall refer to the Tubbataha Reef National Marine Park. 
31. ”Vessel” includes every description of watercraft, including non-displacement 
crafts and seaplanes, used or capable o being used as a means of transportation on 
water. It shall include everything found therein, except personal effects. 
32. “Waste” shall refer to discarded items of solid, liquid, contained gaseous or 
semisolid from, and from whatever source, which may cause or contribute to the 
deterioration of the resources or habitats in the TRNMP. 
ARTICLE II 
MANAGEMENT, MANAGEMENT PLAN AND ZONING 
SEC. 5. Management of the TRAP. --.The management and administration of the 
TRNMP shall be vested with the Tubbataha Management Board (TMB), as herein 
provided Management of zones to be established within the TRNMP shall be consultative 
and participatory. 
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SEC. 6. Zoning. - Zones shall be established within the TRNMP giving primary 
consideration to the preservation and conservation of all life forms, in accordance with 
applicable laws, rules and regulations. Zoning shall also take into consideration the 
efficient protection of habitats, fragile ecosystems and unique areas. The establishment 
and management of zones shall involve the concerned stakeholders by undertaking such 
steps as dialogue, and community and resource-use mapping. The metes and bounds of 
each zone shall be indicated on maps and/or nautical charts. 
ARTICLE 111 
INSTITUTIONAL MECHANISMS, ROLES AND FUNCTIONS 
, I  
SEC. 7, Creation and Composition of the Tubbataha Managernenf Board (TMB). - 
There shall be a TMB which shall be the sole policy-making and permit-granting body of 
the TRNMP. It shall be composed of: 
a. A representative of the PCSD as Chair; 
b. The governor of the Province of Palawan as Co-Chair; 
c. The Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer (PENRO) of 
Palawan; 
d. The Environment and Natural Resources Officer of the Province of Palawan; 
e. The Mayor of the Municipality of Cagayancillo; 
f. The Chair of the Environment and Natural Resources Committee of the 
Sangguniang Bayan of Cagayancillo; 
g. The Commander of the Western Command (WESCOM); 
h. The Commander of the Naval Forces West (NAVFORWEST); 
i. The District Commander of the Philippine Coast Guard - District of Palawan; 
j. A representative of the Department of Tourism: 
k. The provincial officer of the DA-BFAR in Palawan; 
I. A representative from the academe; 
m. At least three (3),representatives from NGOs involved in the conservation and 
n. At least twoi(2) representatives from people’s organizations (PO) based in the 
management of the TRNMP, to be chosen from among themselves; 
Municipality of Cagayancillo, Palawan, and concerned with the conservation and 
management of thie TRNMP, to be chosen from among themselves; 
Except for government officials who shall serve ex-officio, every TMB Yember 
shall serve for a term of two (2) years: Provided, That, helshe remains connected with the 
Sector helshe represents. Whenever a vacancy occurs during the term of a member who 
does not represenit the government, a new member shall be chosen in the same manner 
as the original process to serve the remaining term of hislher predecessor. 
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The TMB en banc shall hold regular meetings at least once every quarter. 
However, the Executive Committee, as provided herein, may meet on amore regular 
basis to discuss regular day-to-day affairs and other matters delegated by the TMB. 
SEC. 8. Executive and Other Committee of the TMB. - There shall be an Executive 
Committee (EXECOM) to be headed by the TMB Chairperson, to which the TMB may 
delegate some of its powers and functions. Its members shall be chosen by the TMB from 
among themselves. 
The TMB may create other committees as it may deem necessary. 
SEC. 9. Incentives of TMB Members. - In addition to actual and necessary 
traveling and subsistence expenses incurred in the performance of their duties, TMB 
members may be granted honoraria and insurance coverage in attending TMB or other 
TMB committee meetings, These expenses may be included in the budget for the 
TRNMP. 
SEC. I O .  Rules of Procedures. - The TMB shall determine by appropriate 
resolution its procedural rules, which shall include discipline and removal of its officers 
and members 
SEC. 11. Powers and Functions of the TMB. - The TMB shall have the following 
powers and functions: 
a. Decide matters relating to planning, resource use and protection, general 
administration of the area in accordance with the Management Plan; 
b. Approve budget allocations, proposals, work plans, action plans, guidelines for 
c. Coordinate with national and local agencies, local government units, local 
communities, the academe, non-governmental organizations, and such other institutions 
to ensure the conservation and management of the TRNMP; 
management of the TRNMP in accordance with the Management Plan and its policies; 
d. Delineate the boundaries of the TRNMP; 
e. Promulgate rules and regulations to promote development programs and 
projects on biodiversity conservation and sustainable development within the TR-M.P and 
consistent with the Management Plan; 
f. Ensure the implementation and enforcement of laws, rules and regulations, 
policies, programs and projects within the TRNMP; 
g. Control and regulate construction, operation and maintenance of structure and 
h. Monitor and evaluate the performance of the TMO and all those implementing 
i s  Appoint 'the TRNMP Park Manager, and upon recommendation of the PM, 
utilities within the TRNMP; 
activities and projects in TRNMP; 
appoint TRNMP management personnel based on internal selection criteria; 
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j. Generate funds and accept donations, grants, and exercise accountability over 
k. Manage the TRNMP Fund, as herein provided; 
I. Exact fines and fees for violations of this Act, guidelines, rules and regulations 
all funds that may accrue to the TRNMP; 
within the TRNMP; 
m. Deputize individuals for the enforcement of laws, rules and regulation governing 
conduct within the TRNMP, and prescribe the necessary qualifications therefore; 
n. Designate collecting officers for hnds generated by the TFGVMP, and formulate 
procedure for the disbursement thereof in accordance with sound accounting and auditing 
standards; 
0. Retain legal counsel to defend cases against the TMB and the Office of the PM 
whenever they are sued in connection with the performance of their duties under this Act, 
guidelines, and rules and regulations pertaining to the TRNMP; 
p. Provide adequate measures to ensure consultation and participation of 
stakeholders; 
q. Perform such other functions necessary for the fulfillment of the provision of this 
Act and other applicable laws, rules and regulations, and as may be asked by the PCSD. 
SEC. 12. Tubbataha Management Office (TMO). - There shall be a TMO to be 
headed by the TRNMP Park Manager (PM) who shall serve as the Chief Operating 
Officer of the entire TRNMP. The Pp and hisher staff shall hold office in a place to be 
designated by the TMB: Provided, That, the TMB may authorize the establishment of sub- 
offices for purposes of convenience, safety, accessibility, economy, and such other 
justifiable reasons: Provided, Further, That, at least sub-office shall be established within 
the TRNMP. 
The PM shall have fill responsibility for the protection of resources within the 
TRNMP. As such, helshe shall have the following duties and responsibilities in addition to 
those provided under existing laws and regulations: 
a. Prepare the'Management Plan and its successor plans as herein provided; 
b. Serve as Secretary to the TMB with the duty to provide the TMB with all the 
c. Hire non-management personnel of the TRNMP, and recommend management 
d. Supervise TRNMP personnel in the performance of their duties and functions; 
e. Establish productive partnership with national and local agencies, local 
government units, local communities, the academe, non-governmental organizations, and 
such other institutions to ensure the conservation and management of the TRNMP; 
visitor programs; 
information necessary to make appropriate decisions for the implementation of this Act; 
personnel to the TMIB; 
f. Develop and implement park information, interpretation, education and other 
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g. Enforce the laws, rules and regulations and TMB resolutions relevant to the 
TRNMP, and assist in the prosecution of offenses; 
h. Monitor all activities within the TRNMP in conformity with the Management 
Plan; 
i. Ensure that consultative and participatory mechanisms are maximized in 
decision-ma king; 
j. Perform such other functions as the TMB may assign. 
SEC. 13. Components of the TMO. - The PM, with the approval of the TMB, shall 
ensure efficient and effective implementation of this Act through various components or 
divisions that may be deemed necessary: Provided, That, the PM and the TMB shall 
ensure that there are components in the TMO that shall ensure visitor management; 
research and planning; information, education and communication; law enforcement and 
security; and, community development. 
SEC. 14. Rule of Local Government Units. - Local governments of Palawan and 
Cagayancillo shall participate in the, management of the TRNMP through their 
representation in the TMB. The provisions of this Act shall be incorporated into the 
municipal and provipcial development plans of Cagayancillo and Palawan, respectively, 
and the Regional Development Plan of Region IV as part of the environmental concerns 
of the province and the region. 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. 15. Supervision by the PCSD. - The PCSD shall exercise supervision over 
a. Appoint one of its members who shall sit as Chairperson of the TMB; 
b. Include in the budget for the TRNMP in its annual budget; i 
c. Assist in accessing and generating hnds, donations, property, revenues and 
similar income for TRNMP. 
SEC. 16. Role of the DENR. - The DENR shall coordinate closely with the PCSD 
to ensure the sound management and conservation of the TRNMP, provide technical and 
financial assistance to the TRNMP as may be needed, and be represented in the TMB by 
the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources (PENRO). 
SEC. 17. Fiscar' Matters. -The TRNMP shall enjoy fiscal autonomy. It shall 
have the sole power tio decide on the use of its funds from whatever source: Provided, 
That, the Municipality of Cagayancillo, Palawan shall have a share of at least ten percent 
(10%) of the user's fees paid to TRNMP. 
The TRNMP shall not be required to contribute to the Integrated Protected Area 
the TMB. In this regard, the PCSD shall: 
Fund (IPAF) provided unider Republic Act No. 7586. 
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SEC. 18. The TRNMP Fund, - There is hereby created a TRNMP Fund which shall 
consist of all the fees, penalties, donations, grants, endowments, revenues and any other 
income pertaining to the TRNMP. The fund shall be for the purpose of financing projects 
and activities iii the TRNMP to attain the objectives of this Act. 
All proceeds"and revenues pertaining to the TRNMP shall be exempt from 
whatever tax, charges or fees: Provided, That, the TMB shall apportion the revenues in 
accordance with the provisions of Section 19 of this Act. 
ARTICLE IV 
UTLIZATION OF RESOURCES 
SEC. 19. Utilization of Resources. - Any exploitation of or utilization of 
nonrenewable resources within the PA shall not be allowed. Energy projects, whether 
renewable or otherwise, shall be permitted only through an Act of Congress, Provided, 
that the exploitation of renewable energy up to three megawatts capacity shall be exempt 
from such requirement. 
ARTICLE V 
PROHIBITED ACTS AND PENALTIES 
SEC. 20. Unauthorized /Entry, Enjoyment or Use. - Except in emergency situations, it 
shall be unlawful to enter TRNMP without prior permission from the TMB or the PM as 
herein provided. It shall also be unlawful to enter, enjoy or use for any purpose any 
management zone beyond which the activity being undertaken is permitted. This rule 
shall similarly apply to the use of vehicles, vessels, gears and equipment in management 
zones where such are not allowed. 
Violation of this Section shall subject the responsible person or entity to an 
administrative fine of from One Thousand Pesos (PI ,000.00) to Thirty Thousand Pesos 
(P30,000.00), as may be determined by the TMB. 
SEC. 21. Non-payment of Users' Fees. - It shall be unlawful for any person or entity 
to enjoy or utilize the TRNMP and the resources therein without payment of users' fees 
as may be imposed by the TMB. Violation of this Section shall be penalized with an 
administrative fine of double the amount set by the TMB for the activity undertaken. 
SEC. 22. Unauthorized Anchorage. - Except in emergency situations, it shall be 
Unlawful for any person or entity to anchor outside the designated areas determined by 
the TMB. 
Violation of this Section shall be penalized with an administrative fine of not less 
than Two Thousand Pesos (P2000.00) and not more than Five Thousand Pesos 
(P5,OOO.OO). 
SEC. 23. Dumping of Wasfe and Liffering. - it shall be unlawful for any person or 
entity to dump waste inside the TRNMP. It shall likewise be unlawful to clean and change 
oil of vessels within the TRNM'P. 
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Violation of this provision shall be punished with imprisonment of six (6) months to 
one (1) year, and fine of not less than Five Thousand Pesos (P5,OOO.OO) and not more 
than Fifteen Thousand Pesos (P 15,000.00). The TMB shall impose an administrative fine 
of not less than Ten Thousand Pesos (Pl0,OOO.OO) and not more than Thirty Thousand 
Pesos (P30,OOO.OO). and order the violator to clean up the waste or pay the Clean-up 
thereof. 
It shall likewise be unlawful to litter within the TRNMP. 
Violation of this provision shall be punished by the TMB with administrative fine of 
Three Thousand Pesos (P3,OOO.OO) to Five Thousand Pesos (P5,OOO.OO). 
SEC. 24. Dumping of Waste Permit. - It shall be unlawful to conduct 
bioprospecting within the TRNMP without prior permit from the TMB. 
Violation of this Section shall be punished with imprisonment of six (6) months to 
six (6) years; fine of Two Hundred Thousand Pesos (P200,OOO.OO) to One Million 
Pesos (PI ,000,000.00); and forfeiture of the resources subject of the offense, equipment, 
gears and vessels. The TMB shall also impose administrative fine ranging from Two 
Hundred Thousand' Pesos (P200,OOO.OO) to One Million Pesos (Pl,OOO,OOO.OO); 
and forfeiture of the resources subject of the offense, equipment, gears and vessels. 
SEC. 25. lntroduction of Exotic Species. - It shall be unlawful to introduce exotic 
species of plants or animals into the TRNMP. 
Violation of this Section shall be punished with imprisonment of six (6) months to 
six (6) years: fine of One Hundred Thousand Pesos (P 100,000.00) to One Million Pesos 
(PI ,000,000.00); and forfeiture of the resources subject of the offense, equipment, gears 
and vessels, The TMB shall also impose administrative fine ranging from Two Hundred 
Thousand Pesos (P200-000.00) to One Million Pesos (Pl,OOO,OOO.OO): and forfeiture 
of the resources subject of the offense, equipment, gears and vessels. 
SEC. 26. Hunting, catching, fishing, killing, taking, gathering, removing, 
destroying, disturbing, or possessing resources. - Except in cases of emergency and 
safety, it shall be unlawful for any person to actnally or attempt to'hunt, catch,'fish, kill, 
take, gather, remove, destroy, disturb, or possess any resource, whether living or non- 
living, or products derived therefrom, without a permit from the TMB and such other 
permits as may be required by 
law, rules and regulations. The unauthorized entry of a vessel in the TRNMP shall 
beprimafacie evidence of violation of this Section. 
Violation of this Section shall be punished as follows: 
(1) Where the offender uses explosives, noxious or poisonous substances, or 
electricity, the penalty shall be imprisonment ranging from five (5) years to ten (IO) years 
without prejudice to the filing of separate criminal cases when the use of the same result 
to physical injury or loss of human life; fine ranging from Thirty Thousand Pesos 
(P30,OOO.OO) to One Hundred Thousand Pesos (P 100,000.00); forfeiture of the 
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resources subject of the offense, equipment, gears and vessels. The TMB shall also 
impose an administrative fine ranging from Forty Thousand Pesos 
(P40,OOO.OO) to One Hundred Fifty Thousand Pesos (P 150,000.00); forfeiture of the 
resources subject ofthe offense, equipment, gears and vessels. 
The discover$ of dynamite, other explosives and chemical compounds which 
contain combustible elements, or noxious or poisonous substances, or equipment or 
device for electro-fishing in any vessel or in the possession of any person within the 
TRNMP shall constitute prima facie evidence that the same was used in violation of this 
Act. The discovery in my vessel or in the possession of any person within the TRNMP of 
resources caught, taken, killed, removed, gathered or, destroyed with the use of 
explosives, noxious or poisonous substances or by electricity shall constitute prima facie 
evidence of violation of this Act. 
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(2) Where the offender merely possesses explosives, noxious or poisonous 
substances, or electro-fishing devices within the TRNMP, the punishment shall be 
imprisonment ranging from six (6) months to two (2) years; fine ranging from..Ten 
Thousand Pesos (P 10,000.00) to Fifteen Thousand Pesos (PI 5,000.00); forfeiture offish 
catch, fishing equipment and vessels. The TMB, shall also impose an administrative fine 
ranging from Ten Thousand Pesos (P 10,000.00) to Twenty-Five Thousand Pesos 
(P25,OOO.OO); and confiscation and forfeiture of the resources subject of the.offense, 
equipment, gears and vessels. 
(3) Where the offender takes, removes, fishes, gathers, kills, destroys, or 
possesses corals, except for 'scientific or research purposes authorized by the TMB, the 
penalty shall be imprisonment ranging from three (3) years to six (6) years; fine ranging 
from Twenty Thousand Pesos (P20,OOO.OO) to Eighty Thousand Pesos (P80,OOO.OO); 
forfeiture of the corals, equipment, gears and vessels. The TMB shall also impose 
administrative fine ranging from Thirty Thousand Pesos (P30,OOO.OO) to One Hundred 
Thousand Pesos (PlOO,OOO.OO); and confiscation and forfeiture of corals subject of the 
offense, equipment, gears and vessels. 
(4) Where the offender is engaged in fishing without perniit from the TMB or the 
PM as herein provided, the operator, owner and three (3) highest officers of a commercial 
fishing boat or enterprise engaged therein shall be punished by a fine equivalent to the 
value of catch or Fifty Thousand Pesos (P50,000.00), whichever is higher; imprisonment 
of two (2) years; confiscation of catch and fishing gears, equipment and vessels; and 
automatic revocation of license. 
When the offender is a municipal fisher, helshe shall be punished by a fine 
equivalent to the value of catch or Five Thousand Pesos (P5,000.00), whichever is 
higher; imprisonment of three (3) months; and confiscation of catch. 
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In any case, the TMB may impose administrative fine of no more than Fifty 
Thousand Pesos (P5,OOO.OO) against erring commercial fishers, and no more than Ten 
Thousand Pesos (PI 0,000.00) against erring municipal fishers; and confiscation of catch, 
fishing gears, equipment and vessels. 
(5) Where the offender uses a fly fishing gear or method that destroys coral reefs, 
sea grass beds, or other marine life habitats as may be determined by this Act, the TMB, 
other laws, the DA, or the DENR, the operator, boat captain, master fisherman, recruiter 
or organizer of fish workers involved shall suffer a penalty of three (3) years to ten (IO) 
years imprisonment; fine of not less than One Hundred Thousand Pesos (P 100,000.00) 
to Five Hundred Thousand Pesos (P500,OOO.OO); forfeiture of catch, fishing equipment, 
gears and vessels. The TMB shall also impose administrative fine ranging from Four 
Hundred Thousand Pesos (P400,OOO.OO) to One Million Pesos (PI ,000,000.00); and 
confiscation and forfeiture of catch, fishing equipment, gears and vessels. 
When the offender is a municipal fisher, heishe shall be punished by a fine ranging 
from Twenty Thoustind Pesos (P20,OOO.OO) to Forty Thousand Pesos (P40,OOO.OO); 
imprisonment of six (6) months to two (2) years; and forfeiture of fish catch, fishing 
equipment, gears and vessels. 
The TMB shall also impose administrative fine ranging from Twenty Thousand 
(P20,OOO.OO) 
to One Hundred Thousand Pesos (PlOO,OOO.OO); and confiscation 
Muro-Ami, pa-aling, all kinds of trawls (galadgad, Noway), purse seine (pangdong), 
Danish seine (hulbot-hulbot, pahulbot-hulbot, likisan, liba-liba, palisot, patangko, bira-bira, 
buli-buli, hulahoop, zipper, lampornas, etc.) ring net (kubkob, panguloing, kalansisi), 
drive-in net (kayakas), round haul seine (sapyaw, lawag), motorized push net (sudsod), 
bagnet (basing, saklit), or any of their variations, are hereby declared destructive fishing 
methods or gears under this provision. 
(6) Where the offender gathers or removes pebbles, stones, rocks; sand or other 
materials that form part of the habitat, or otherwise engages in the quarrying o r dredging 
of any portion of the TRNMP, the penalty shall be six (6) months to ten (IO) y6ars 
imprisonment; fine of not less than Ten Thousand Pesos (Pl0,OOO.OO) to Fifty Thousand 
Pesos (P50,OOO.OO); and forfeiture of the substance taken from the habitat, and the 
equipment and vessels used to commit such violation. The TMB shall also impose 
administrative fine ranging from Thirty Thousand Pesos (P30,OOO.OO) to Seven Hundred 
Thousand Pesos (P700,OOO.OO); and confiscation and forfeiture of the substance taken, 
and equipment and vessels used in the commission of the violation. 
(7) Where the subjdct of the offense are protected species as defined in this Act, the 
penalty shall he imprisonment of twelve, (12) years to twenty (20) years; fine of One 
Pesos 
and forfeiture of catch, fishing equipment, gears and vessels. 
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Hundred Twenty Thousand Pesos (P 120,000.00) to One Million Pesos (Pl,OOO,OOO.OO) 
for every threatened or endangered organism subject of the offense; forfeiture of the 
catch, equipment, g6ars and vessels; and cancellation of fishing permit. The TMB shall 
also impose administrative fine ranging from One Hundred Fifty Thousand Pesos 
(P150,OOO.OO) 
to One Million Pesos (PI ,000,000.00) for every threatened or 
endangered organism subject of the offense; and confiscation and forfeiture of catch, 
equipment, gears and vessels. 
(8) Where the violations of this Section are not covered by the preceding 
paragraphs, the penalty shall be imprisonment of one (1) year to three (3) years; fine of 
not less than Ten Thousand Pesos (P l0,OOO.OO); forfeiture of the catch, equipment, gears 
and vessels; and cancellation of permit that makes it possible for the offender to commit 
the offense. The TMB shall also impose administrative fine ranging from Fifteen 
Thousand Pesos (PI 5,000.00) to One Million Pesos (P 1,000,000.00); and confiscation 
and forfeiture of catch, equipment, gears and vessels. 
SEC. 27. Poaching by Foreigners. - It shall be unlawful for any foreign person, 
corporation or entity to fish or operate any fishing vessel in the TRNMP. The entry of any 
foreign vessel in the TRNMP shall constitute prima facie evidence that the vessel is 
engaged in fishing in the area. 
Violation of the above shall be punished by imprisonment of six (6) years andbne 
day to twelve (12) years and a fine of One Hundred Thousand U.S. Dollars 
(US$lOO,OOO.OO), in addition to the forfeiture of its catch, fishing equipment and fishing 
vessel: Provided, That in case of non-payment of fine a subsidiary imprisonment shall be 
imposed; Provided, further, that the TMB is empowered to impose an administrative' fine 
of not less than Fifly Thousand U.S. Dollars (US$SO,OOO.OO), but not more than Two 
Hundred Thousand ,
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U.S. Dollars (US$200,000.00) or its equivalent in Philippine Currency, 
in addition to the dbnfiscation and forfeiture of the fish catch, fishing equipment and 
fishing vessel. 
SEC. 28. Violation of Environmental Impact Assessment System. - The TMB 
shall prosecute violations of laws and rules on Environmental Impact Assessment 
System. Such violations shall be punished by imprisonment of three (3) years to five (5) 
years; fine of One Hundred Thousand Pesos (P 100,000.00) for every day each violation 
subsists; rehabilitation of the affected area or the amount equivalent thereto; and 
forfeiture of the vessels, structures, effects, materials and equipment used, and the 
products of such violation. If the offender is a corporation, the directors and officers who 
allowed such violation shall suffer the imprisonment. 
The TMB shall alsio impose administrative fine of One Hundred Thousand Pesos 
(PlOO,OOO.OO) for every daiy each violation subsists; rehabilitation of the affected area or 
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the amount equivalent thereto; and confiscation and forfeiture of the vessels, structures, 
effects, materials and equipment used, and the products of such violation. 
SEC. 29. Violation of Standards. -The owner, operator and top three (3) officers of 
any vessel violating the standards set by the TMB, such as safety and sanitary standards, 
shall suffer administrative penalty of fine ranging from Twenty Thousand Pesos 
(P20,OOO.OO) to Fifty Thousand Pesos (P50,OOO.OO) for every day each violation 
subsists, and from suspension of three (3) months to cancellation of permit to operate in 
TRNMP. 
SEC. 30. Obstruction to Law Enforcement Officer - The boat owner, master, 
operator, officer, or any person acting on hislher behalf, of any vessel who evades, 
obstructs or hinders any law enforcement officer in the TRNMP to perform hislher duty, 
shall be fined Twenty Thousand Pesos (P20,OOO.OO). In addition, the registration, permit 
andlor license of the vessel including the license of the officers thereof shall he cancelled. 
SEC. 31. SuGsidiary Imprisonment. - Non-payment of judicial fines imposed under 
, ,  
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this Act shall be subject to subsidiary imprisonment as provided for by existing laws. . 
SEC. 32. Promulgation of Rules and Regulations. - The TMB may issue rules and 
regulations, including the imposition of penalties, in pursuit of the conservation, 
preservation, management and sustainable development of the TRNMP. 
SEC. 33. Fines and Forfeitures. - All criminal fines and forfeitures that may be 
imposed by the courts, and the administrative fines and forfeitures imposed by the TMB 
under this Act, and the rules and regulations that may be promulgated in pursuit of'the 
goals and objectives oft his Act shall be given to the TMB and shall form part of the funds 
and assets of the TRNMP. 
ARTICLE VI 
LAW ENFORCEMENT AND PROSECUTION 
SEC. 34. Who Shall Enforce this Act, Other Laws, Rules and Regulations 
Within TRAMP. - The Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Philippine National Police, the 
Philippine Coast Guard, the law enforcement officers of the DENR and DA-BFAR, PCSD 
officials and staff; 1-GU officials, law enforcement officers of LGUs, members and officers 
of the TMB, the PPvl and hisiher staff, and other government enforcement agencies, are 
hereby authorized to enforce this Act, other laws, rules and regulations within the 
TRNMP. 
The TMB miay deputize in writing other persons to enforce the provisions of this 
Act, other laws, rubes and regulations within the TRNMP. 
Any one of Ithq!above persons and entities is authorized to file administrative cases 
before 'the proper agencies and bodies, or initiate criminal proceedings in accordance 
with the Rules of Court. for offenses committed within the TRNMP. 
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SEC. 35. lnspection Powers. - The PM and law enforcers shall have the power to 
stop, board and search and inspect all vessels within the TRNMP for the purRose of 
enforcing the provisions of this Act, other laws, rules and regulations. 
SEC. 36. Coordination Between TMB and PM, and Law Enforcemenf Agencies.- 
The TMB and the Pm shall coordinate with law enforcement arms and agendies of the 
government to ensure effective enforcement of the' provisions of this Act and other 
applicable laws, rules and regulations within the TRNMP. The Armed Forces of the 
Philippines, the Philippine National Police, the PNP Maritime Command, Philippine Coast 
Guard, the law enforcement officers of the DENR, DA-BFAR and concerned LGUs shall 
cooperate with the TMB and the PM for this purpose. 
SEC. 37. Special Prosecutor and Retained Counsel. -Within thirty (30) days from 
the effectivity of this Act, the Department of Justice (DOJ) shall appoint a special 
prosecutor to whom all cases of violation of laws, rules and regulations in the PA shall be 
assigned. Such Special Prosecutor shall coordinate with the PAMB and the PASu in the 
performance of hislher duties and assist in the training of wardens and rangers in arrest 
and criminal procedures. The PAMB may retain the services of a counsel to prosecute 
andlor assist in the prosecution of cases under the direct control and supervision of the 
regular or special prosecutor and to defend the members of the PAMB, the PASu and the 
staff, or any person assisting in the protection, conservation and sustainable 
development of the PA, against any legal action related to their powers, functions and 
responsibilities as provided in this Act or as delegated or tasked by the PAMB. 
ARTICLE VI1 
GENERAL PROVISIONS 
SEC. 38. Appropriations. 
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- The Secretary of the DENR shall immediately include in 
the Department's program the implementation of this Act, the funding of which shall be 
included in the annual General Appropriations Act. 
, ., 
SEC. 39. Reporting Responsibility. -The PASu, through the PAMB, shall submit an 
annual accomplishment report to the Secretary of the DENR on the activities undertaken 
in the PA. 
SEC. 40. Construction and Suppletory Application of Existing Laws. The provisions 
of this Act shall be construed liberally .in favor of achieving biodiversity conservation, 
protection and sustainable development Provisions of Republic Act No. 7586, otherwise 
known as the National Integrated Protected Areas Management Act of 1992 and existing 
forestry laws, and their corresponding rules and regulations not inconsistent hereto shall 
have the suppletory effect in the implementation of this Act. 
SEC. 41. SeF;iarabi/ity Clause. - If any part or section of this Act is declared by the 
court as unconstitutional, such declaration shall not affect the other parts or sections 
hereof. 
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SEC. 42. Repealing Clause. - For the purpose of this Act, the provisions of the 
NIPAS Act are hereby modified in accordance with the provisions herein. All other laws, 
proclamations, rules and regulations inconsistent with this Act are hereby repealed or 
modified accordingly. 
SEC. 43. Effectivity Clause. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its 
complete publication in the Official Gazette or in a national newspaper of general 
circulation available in the PA. This Act shall be translated in a dialect known in the PA by 
the DENR within thirty (30) days from approval hereof and shall be posted for three 
consecutive weeks in conspicuous place in the provincial, municipal and barangay halls 
within the PA as well as in three other public places frequented by the public. 
Approved, 
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