THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC } 
L 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
1 
5 JUM -8 P3 2.5 
First Regular Session 
1 
S E N A T E  
S.B. NO. 2 
Introduced by Senator Compafiera Pia S. Cayetano 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Siargao Islands Protected Landscape and Seascape (SIPLAS) comprise the 
islands of Siargao and Bucas Grande and the surrounding islets. The SIPLAS is one of 
the three priority protected areas in the Mindanao Biogeographic Zone (MBZ). These 
islands are located ‘in the Province of Surigao del Norte, northeastern Mindanao, 
CAWGA Region, bounded on the north by Surigao Strait, on the south by the mainland 
part of Surigao del Norte provionce, on the east by Philippine Sea, and on the west by 
Hinatuan Passage. 
The most striking physiographic feature of SIPLAS is the limestone areas, which 
display a typical karst terrain of haystack hills similar to the Chocolate Hills of Bohol and 
El Nido in Palawan. The presence of lagoons and ponds amid the hills and beaches 
make them rather unique. 
It also boasts of having the largest contiguous mangrove stand in the Philippines 
which is approximately 4,000 hectares. The overall mangrove cover of Siargao group of 
islands is approximately 8,600 hectares. The vastness of the mangrove cover provides 
a good habitat for the crocodile of the species Crocodylus porosus, which still exists in 
adequate number compared to other places in the country. 
SIPLAS serves as sanctuary to several rare and endangered wildlife. One 
species of birds, the Philippine Cockatoo, is listed as critical while 5 fauna species, 
which are the green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas), hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys 
imbricata), Dinagat gymnure, golden crown flying fox and olive ridley turtle, are listed 
endangered. Dugong (Dugong dugon), a globally endangered species, is also present 
in the area. SIPLAS forest is home to the important and rare Philippine ironwood or 
“mancono” (Xanthosthemum verdugonianum), which is the hardest known species of 
wood. 
I 
The importance of Siargao group of islands was acknowledged on October IO, 
1996 through Presidential Proclamation No. 902 which declared the islands as a 
Protected Area under the category of “Protected Landscape and Seascape”. 
To ensure SIPLAS’ protection and conservation and to provide continuity and 
permanence to the initial conservation and management efforts in the areas, it is 
incumbent upon Congress to enact a law to address the local realities and concerns 
within the framework of the National Integrated Protected Area System (NIPAS) Act. 
In view of the aforementioned considerations, the immediate passage of this bill 
is earnestly sought. 


1 
2 
3 
4 
5 
6 
7 
8 
9 
10 
11 
12 
13 
14 
15 
16 
17 
i 18 
.. 
*!,: 
.._ 
! 
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC } 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
1 
5 ai$ -8 P 3  125 
First Regular Session 
1 
. , ,  
S E N A T E  
RECEIVED By: 
S.B. NO. 
Introduced by Senator Compaiiera Pia S. Cayetano 
AN ACT 
TO ESTABLISH THE SIARGAO GROUP OF ISLANDS 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 I. 
Title. - This Act shall be known as the “Siargao Islands Protected 
1 
Landscape and Seascape Act of 2005. 
SEC. 2. Declaration of Policy. - It is the policy of the State to ensure the 
protection, preservation and rehabilitation of Siargao Group of Islands, 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 endangered species, a mangrove reserve 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 Siargao islands through 
sustainable and participatory development, and advance and protect the interests of its 
legitimate inhabitants in accordance with Republic Act No. 7586 (or the “National 
lntegrated Protected Areas System Act of 1992’7, other pertinent laws, and applicable 
international conventions to which the Philippines is a signatory. 
SEC. 3. Definition of Terms. - For purposes of this Act: 
(a) “5iodiver.siff’ shall refer to the variety and variability among all living 
organisms and the ecological complex in which they are found; 


1 
2 
3 
4 
5 
? 
6 
1 
8 
9 
10 
11 
12 
13 
14 
15 
16 
17 
18 
19 
20 
21 
22 
23 
I 24 
? 
25 
26 
21 
28 
- 2 -  
(b) ‘Bioprospecfhg” 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”shall 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) “C/T€S” 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; 
I 
(e) “Derivafives”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”shal1 refer to species or subspecies whose population 
is in danger of extinction and whose survival is unlikely if the causal factors continue 
operating; 
(9) “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) 
“€xp/oration” 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 themfor profit; 
6) Exploifation” shall refer to any mode of use, extraction, development, 
utilization or disposition of resources, for whatever purpose, whether commercial or 
otherwise; 


1 
1 2  
3 
4 
5 
6 
7 
8 
9 
10 
11 
12 
13 
14 
15 
16 
17 
18 
19 
20 
9 21 
22 
23 
24 
25 
26 
27 
28 
- 3  - 
(k) 
(I) 
“HabifaYshall refer to an area inhabited by wildlife in the natural state; 
“lndigenous species” shall refer to native Philippine species or subspecies 
with an existing or historical natural occurrence and distribution within the SIPLAS; 
(m) “Large-scale infrastructure projects” shall refer to major port facilities, major 
highways, tall edifices, major dams and the like; 
(n) 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 prescri4ed in the 
Management Plan; 
(0) “Protected area”shal1 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 SIPLAS; 
(p) “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; 
(9) “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 
SIPLAS as determined by the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB); 
(r) 
“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; 
(s) 
“Recreational zones” shall refer to areas of high recreational, tourism, 
educational or environmental awareness values where sustainable eco-tourism, 
I 


1 
2 
3 
4 
5 
6 
7 
8 
9 
10 
11 
12 
13 
14 
15 
16 
17 
18 
? 
i 19 
20 
21 
22 
23 
24 
2s 
26 
27 
- 4 -  
recreational, conservation education or public awareness activities may be allowed as 
prescribed in the Management Plan; 
(t) 
“Secretary” shall refer to the Secretary of the Department of Environment 
and Natural Resources; 
(u) “Special use zones’’ shall refer to areas containing existing insta ations of 
national significance such as telecommunication facilities, irrigation canals or electric 
power lines; 
Y 
(v) 
“Susfainable”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; 
(w) “Strict protection zones” shall refer to areas with high biodiversity value 
which shall be closed to all human activity except for scientific studies; 
(x) 
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; 
(y) 
“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 
(z) “Management zones” shall refer to the divisions within the SIPLAS 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 Siargao Group of Islands within the Province of Surigao del Norte, 
28 
composed of the islands of Siargao and Bucas Grande and the municipalities of Burgos, 


6 
7 
8 
9 
10 
11 
12 
- 5 -  
Dapa, Del Carmen, General Luna, Pilar, San Benito, San Isidro, Sta. Monica and 
Socorro, 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 Siargao Islands Protected 
Landscape and Seascape (or SIPLAS) and its boundaries shall be as follows: 
I 
STATION 
Tie Point 
1 - 2  
2 - 3  
3 - 4  
4 - 5  
5 - 6  
6 - 7  
7 - 8  
8 - 9  
9-10 
10-11 
11 -12 
N 
S 
S 
N 
N 
N 
N 
N 
N 
N 
S 
S 
BEARING 
15' 
00' 
0 0  
5' 
29' 
1 9  
41 ' 23' 
04" 
70' 
10' 
0 9  
84' 
14' 
1 6  
36' 
59' 
I 0  
28' 
40' 
03" 
39O 
02' 
5 6  
55O 
10' 
0 3  
46' 
50' 
0 0  
59O 
20' 
1 2  
21 ' 47' 
30" 
E 
E 
W 
w 
W 
W 
E 
w 
E 
E 
E 
E 
DISTANCE 
37,000.00 m 
30,659.91 m 
19,167.65 m 
21,474.56 m 
15,184.74 m 
16,461.03 m 
16,500.00 m 
21,716.48 m 
22,650.00 m 
23,000.00 m 
15,981.10 m 
31,255.88 m 
CONTROL 
to corner 
1 
2 
3 
4 
5 
6 
7 
8 
9 
10 
11 
All existing land-use and resource-use permits within the SIPLAS 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. t! xtractive 
resource use within the SIPLAS shall not be deemed to include sustainable extraction 
by tenured migrants. 
ARTICLE li 
MANAGEMENT, MANAGEMENT PLAN AND ZONING 


1 
2 
3 
4 
5 
6 
7 
8 
9 
10 
11 
12 
' 13 
14 
15 
16 
17 
18 
19 
20 
21 
22 
23 
24 
25 
26 
27 
28 
q 
- 6 -  
SEC. 5. Management offhe SIPLAS. - The management and administration of 
the SIPLAS shall be vested with the PAMB. The management of zones to be 
established within the SIPLAS shall be consultative and participatory. 
SEC. 6. Management Plan. - Within one (1) year from the effectivity of this Act, 
a Management Manual 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 SIPLAS 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 Manual 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 Value 
(ii) 
Biodiversity Concerns 
I 


1 
2 
3 
4 
5 
6 
7 
8 
9 
I 1 0  
i 11 
12 
13 
14 
15 
16 
17 
18 
19 
20 
21 
22 
23 
24 
25 
26 
27 
28 
- 7  - 
(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) tenure for tenured protected area residents 
(c) boundary demarcation 
(d) management zone boundaries and the rationale for each 
(e) protection program 
I 
by wardens 
by the community 
(f) 
habitat rehabilitation 
(9) habitat management 
(h) sustainable use 
(i) 
infrastructure, including maintenance 
(j) visitor program and accommodations 
(k) 
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 


f 
- 8  - 
1 
2 
3 
4 
5 
6 
$
7
 
:
8
 
9 
10 
11 
12 
13 
14 
15 
16 
17 
18 
19 
20 
21 
22 
23 
24 
25 
26 
$ 
,27 
(I) 
Administration 
(i) 
Staffing 
(ii) Work Program 
(iii) Budget 
(J) Annexes 
(i) 
(ii) Species lists 
(iii) References 
Maps (1 :50,000), pictures, aerial photographs 
The Management Plan shall be consistent with the nature of the SIPLAS. 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. 
I 
SEC. 7. Integration of the Management Plan into Local Development Plans. - 
Local government units shall participate in the management of the SIPLAS through their 
representation in the PAMB. The provisions herein shall be incorporated into the 
barangay, municipal and provincial development plans of Surigao del Norte and the 
Regional Development Plan of Region Xlll 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 shall be established within the SIPLAS giving primary 
consideration to the preservation and conservation of all life forms. 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. 


1 
2 
3 
4 
8 
5 
6 
I 
8 
9 
10 
11 
12 
13 
14 
15 
16 
17 
18 
19 
20 
21 
22 
23 
' 24 
25 
? 
26 
21 
28 
- 9 -  
All primary (old growth) forests within the SIPLAS, 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. 
I 
Multiple-use zones shall be validated on the ground, demarcated on maps and 
monumented in the field with the assistance of communities and agencies concerned. 
ARTICLE 111 
THE PROTECTED AREA MANAGEMENT BOARD 
SEC. 9. The frofecfed 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 SIPLAS. 
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) Ensure the implementation of projects and programs as prescribed in the 
Management Plan; 


. 
i 
1 
? 
I 2  
3 
4 
5 
6 
7 
8 
9 
10 
11 
12 
13 
14 
15 
16 
17 
18 
19 
20 
i 21 
22 
23 
24 
25 
26 
27 
-10- 
(e) Control and regulate the construction, operation and maintenance of roads, 
trails, waterworks, sewerage, fire protection and sanitation systems and other public 
utilities within the SIPLAS; 
(f) 
Issue land and resource-use permits and all the necessary permits within 
the SIPLAS in accordance with the Management Plan and consistent with the nature of 
the SIPLAS; 
(9) Recommend criteria and set fees for the issuance of permits for the 
activities regulated by this Act or the Management Plan. The PAMB shall dnly issue 
permits taking into consideration ecological and sustainability factors based on the 
policies provided in Section 2 and 8 of this Act; 
(h) Adopt rules and procedure for the conduct of business, including the 
creation of committees to which the PAMB powers may be delegated; 
(i) 
Control and supervise the Office of the Protected Area Superintendent 
(PASu); 
(j) Deputize, through the Protected Area Superintendent, individuals for the 
enforcement of the laws, rules and regulations governing conduct within the SIPLAS, 
and prescribe the necessary qualifications therefore; 
(k) Accept donations, approve proposals for funding, budget allocations and 
exercise accountability over all funds that may accrue to the SIPLAS; 
(I) 
(m) Retain legal counsel to defend cases against the PAME and the Office of 
the Protected Area Superintendent whenever they are sued in connection with the 
performance of their duties under this Act. 
Coordinate with the appropriate agencies of the government; and 
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 rqsolutions 


. 
1 
2 
3 
4 
5 
6 
I 
8 
9 
10 
11 
12 
13 
14 
15 
16 
17 
9 18 
~ 19 
20 
21 
22 
23 
24 
25 
26 
21 
28 
-11 - 
issued by the PAMB, the Secretary shall decide whether to apply the rule or withdraw its 
application to the SIPLAS. 
SEC. I O .  Composition. - The Board shall be composed of: 
(a) The Regional Executive Director (RED) of DENR-Region XIII, as 
chairperson; 
\ 
(b) The mayors of the municipalities of Burgos, Dapa, Del Carmen, General 
Luna, Pilar, San Benito, San Isidro, Sta. Monica and Socorro, as members. Each mayor 
may appoint a regular duly authorized representative whenever helshe cannot 
personally attend any of the PAMB meetings: 
(c) The presiding officer of the Sangguniang Bayan of each municipality, as 
member: 
(d) The president of the Liga ng mga Barangay of each municipality, as 
member; 
(e) The Provincial Planning and Development Officer of Surigao del Norte as 
member; 
(f) 
The Provincial Tourism Officer of Surigao del Norte as member; 
(9) One (1) representative from the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) to be chosen 
from among the SK chairpersons of the municipalities comprising the SIPLAS, as 
member; 
(h) Three (3) representatives from the non-governmental organizations 
operating within the SIPLAS, chosen from among themselves, as members; 
(i) 
Three (3) representatives from the people's organizations within the 
SIPLAS, chosen from among themselves, as members: 
(j) Three (3) representatives from the indigenous cultural comm nities or 
f 
indigenous peoples residing within the MSPLAS as member; and 
(k) The Protected Area Superintendent as ex oficio member. 
In the selection of peoples' and non-government organizations' representatives, 
preference shall be accorded to those organizations involved in the conservation and 


I 
r 
1 
2 
3 
4 
5 
6 
7 
8 
9 
10 
11 
12 
13 
14 
15 
i 16 
17 
18 
19 
20 
21 
22 
23 
24 
25 
26 
27 
- 12 - 
protection of the SIPLAS and engaged in the field of developmental work. The 
representation of peoples and non-government organizations shall be institu ional and 
shall endeavor to achieve geographic balance. 
f 
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 SIPLAS. 
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) One (1) mayor to be chosen from among the mayors of the municipalities 
comprising the SIPLAS, as member; 
(c) One (1) Sangguniang Bayan member to be chosen from among the 
presiding officers of the Sangguniang Bayan of the municipalities comprising the 
SIPLAS, as members; 
(d) One (1) Barangay Captain to be chosen from among the presidents of the 
Liga ng mga Barangay of the municipalities comprising the SIPLAS, 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; 
(9) One of the representatives from the non-governmental organizations as 
\ 
member; and 
(h) 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. 


- 1 3 -  
I 
1 
2 
3 
4 
5 
6 
7 
8 
9 
10 
11 
12 
13 
14 
15 
16 
17 
18 
19 
20 
21 
22 
23 
24 
25 
26 
27 
28 
e 
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 PAMB en 
banc meetings; 
(b) Commission of any of the prohibited acts as 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 En 4 ironment 
and Natural Resources to be headed by the Protected Area Superintendent who shall 
serve as Chief Operating DENR Officer of the entire SIPLAS. The Protected Area 
Superintendent and hidher 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 SIPLAS. As such, helshe 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; 


'4 
i 
1 
2 
3 
4 
5 
6 
7 
8 
9 
! 10 
11 
12 
13 
14 
15 
16 
17 
18 
19 
20 
21 
22 
23 
24 
2s 
26 
? 
- 1 4 -  
(b) Serve as Secretariat to the PAME with the duty to provide the PAME with all 
the information necessary 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  SIPLAS information, education and visitor 
programs; 
(f) 
Enforce the laws, rules and regulations and PAMB resolutions relevant to 
the SIPLAS, and assist in the prosecution of offenses; 
(9) Monitor all activities within the SIPLAS in conformity with the Management 
Plan; and 
(h) Perform such other function as the PAME may assign. 
ARTICLE IV 
TENURED MIGRANTS 
\ 
SEC. 15. Tenured Migrants. - Wnenever 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 
27 
and to avoid unnecessary displacement. In areas where tenurial instruments are 


- 1 5 -  
1 
2 
3 
4 
5 
6 
I
7
 
;
8
 
9 
10 
11 
12 
13 
14 
15 
16 
17 
18 
19 
20 
21 
22 
23 
24 
25 
? 26 
i 27 
28 
granted, appropriate use zones shall be established for the purpose of maintaining non- 
commercial 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; 
(b) 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 be 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 SIPLAS 
shall be undertaken using 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. 16. Confracf lnvolving Lands Witbin the SIPLAS. - Any purchase, 
sale, encumbrance, mortgage, usufruct, or any form of disposition, alienation or transfer 
of rights involving lands within the SIPLAS shall be restricted among tenured migrants; 
otherwise, it shall be null and void ab initio. 


4 
! 
:
5
 
6 
7 
8 
, 9  
10 
11 
12 
13 
14 
15 
16 
17 
18 
19 
20 
21 
22 
23 
25 
26 
27 
-16 - 
Lease of lands to persons not otherwise qualified to hold lands within the SIPLAS 
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 SIPLAS may enter into joint venture agreements with the government. 
ARTICLE V 
UTILIZATION OF RESOURCES AND FACILITIES 
SEC. 17. Utilization of Resources. - Except for protected species or whenever 
detrimental to the ecosystem, use of resources derived from the SIPLAS by tenured 
migrants 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. 
t 
The PAMB is authorize to impose regulatory measures such as hunting 
moratoria, closed hunting seasons and other restrictions on the use of resources within 
the SIPLAS to ensure the sustainability of species and ecosystems: Provided, That 
these will not pose a threat to the food security of the tenured migrants directly 
dependent therein for their subsistence: Provided, further, That these restrictions shall 
be made upon due consultation with the tenllred migrants. 
Any exploration, exploitation or utilization of non-renewable resources within the 
SIPLAS for commercial purposes or by those who are not tenured migrants shall not be 
allowed. 
Energy projects within the SIPLAS 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 SIPLAS: Provided, further, 
That it shall undergo the Environmental Impact Assessment System as provided by law: 
Provided, finally, That the PAMB has endorsed the project. 


-17 - 
Commercial exploitation of water resources within the SIPLAS shall require prior 
PAMB approval, must be in accordance with the Management Plan and should undergo 
the Environmental Impact Assessment System. 
SEC. 18. Existing Facilities Wifhin fhe SIPLAS. - Wifhin ninety (90) days from 
the effectivity of this Act, all existing commercial facilities within the SIPLAS with a total 
capitalization in excess of Fifty thousand pesos (P50,OOO.OO) shall submit to the PAMB 
through the Protected Area Superintendent the following information: 
(a) Potential for disturbance of protected species and their habitat, rehoductive 
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 SIPLAS. 
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 SIPLAS. If any such conditions 
are violated, a fine of Five thousand pesos (P5,OOO.OO) 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,OOO.OO). 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 SIPLAS 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 
1 
2 
? 
3 
4 
5 
6 
7 
8 
9 
10 
11 
12 
13 
14 
15 
16 
17 
18 
19 
20 
' 21 
i 
22 
23 
24 
25 
26 
27 
28 


1 
2 
3 
4 
5 
6 
7 
8 
9 
10 
11 
12 
13 
14 
15 
16 
17 
7 18 
' 19 
20 
21 
22 
23 
24 
25 
26 
27 
28 
- 1 8 -  
PROHIBITED ACTS AND PENALTIES 
SEC. 19. Prohibited Acts. - The following acts shall be prohibited within the 
MSPLAS without prejudice to the application of pertinent laws and regulations: 
(a) Hunting, collecting, catching, capturing, wounding, killing, destroying or 
possessing anywhere within the SIPLAS any protected species of plant or bnimal or 
their by-products or derivatives without prior PAMB approval; 
(b) Hunting, collecting, catching, capturing, wounding, killing or destroying 
anywhere within the SIPLAS any other species of plant and animal or their by-products 
or derivatives the trade of which is regulated by the PAMB; 
(c) Bioprospecting without prior PAMB approval; 
(d) The disturbance of protected species or their habitats, reproductive cycle, 
roosting and feeding grounds and migratory paths; 
(e) Unauthorized cutting, gathering, collecting or removal of timber or other 
forest products: Provided, That any authorization issued shall only be valid for one (1) 
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; 
(f) 
Establishment or introduction of exotic species within the SlPLAS with 
allelophatic effect or those detrimental to endemic species, without prior PAMB 
approval; 
(9) Exploration, exploitation or extraction, drilling or extracting for minerals or 
resources or engage in quarrying within the SIPLAS; 
(h) Destroying, excavating, vandalizing or in any manner damaging any natural 
formation on land or sea, burial or religiouskpiritual rites, artifacts, objects bepnging to 
indigenous cultural communities or indigenous peoples and other objects of natural and 
scenic value; 
(i) 
Unauthorized possession or use of blasting caps, explosives, or cyanide 
anywhere within the SIPLAS; 


r: 
i 
1 
2 
3 
4 
5 
6 
7 
8 
9 
10 
11 
12 
13 
14 
q 15 
: 16 
17 
18 
19 
20 
21 
22 
23 
24 
25 
26 
27 
28 
- 19 - 
(j) 
Unauthorized possession or use of chain saws or band saws; 
(k) Unauthorized use of motorized equipment anywhere within Vte Strict 
Protection Zone of the SIPLAS; 
(I) 
Unauthorized construction or maintenance of any kind of road, edifice, 
facility or any infrastructure project within the SIPLAS; 
(m) Unauthorized occupation of any portion of land inside the SIPLAS. Clearing, 
construction of residence or any introduction of improvements shall constitute prima 
facie evidence of occupation or settlement; 
(n) Alteration, removal, willful destruction of boundary marks or interpretative 
signals; 
(0) Engaging in kaingin or in any manner causing a forest fire inside the 
SIPLAS; 
(p) Unauthorized fishing anywhere within the SIPLAS; 
(9) Fishing within the SIPLAS 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; 
(r) 
Destruction or in any manner damaging coral reefs except in cases of 
emergency; 
(s) Introduction, disposal, dumping or causing to be dumped in the SIPLAS any 
waste material, including but not limited to, non-biodegradable, toxic, nuclear, 
hazardous and other prohibited substances; and 
I 
(t) 
Violation of any rules and regulations provided in the Management Plan or 
any resolution reached by the PAM6 in the exercise of its adjudicative functions. 
SEC. 20. Penalties. - (a) For any violation of the provisions of Section I 9  
hereof, a fine of not less than Five thousand pesos (P5,OOO.OO) but not more than Five 
hundred thousand pesos (P500,OOO.OO) and/or imprisonment of not less than one (1) 
year but not more than six (6) years shall be imposed. 


c 
1 
2 
3 
4 
5 
6 
7 
8 
9 
10 
11 
12 
13 
14 
15 
16 
17 
18 
19 
20 
21 
22 
23 
24 
25 
26 
27 
28 
0 
I 
-20 - 
(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,OOO,OOO.OO) in case the species involved is listed under 
CITES Appendix I, Seven hundred fifty housand pesos (P750,OOO.OO) for the species 
listed under CITES Appendix 11, and Five hundred thousand pesos (P500,OOO.OO) 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 SIPLAS, 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 SIPLAS 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. 


3 
-21 - 
(e) A fine of not less than One hundred pesos (P100.00) but not more than One 
thousand pesos (PI ,OOO.OO), or community service form one (I) 
day to one (1) week, or 
both, shall be imposed on anyone who enters into the Strict Protection Zone of the 
SIPLAS without prior PAMB permit. 
ARTICLE VI1 
PROCEEDS, FEES AND APPROPRIATIONS 
SEC. 21. lntegrated Profecfed 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 SIPLAS 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 mdtiple-use 
and recreational zones and permitted resource utilizations including commercially 
operated facilities within the SIPLAS; 
(c) Fees, royalties and contributions from industries and facilities directly 
benefiting from resources originating from the SIPLAS; 
, 
(d) Fines and fees, including protected area entry and visitor's fees, as may be 
collected from the operation of the SIPLAS 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 SIPLAS: 
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 
1 
2 
3 
4 
5 
6 
7 
8 
9 
' 10 
? 
11 
'12 
13 
14 
15 
16 
17 
18 
19 
20 
21 
22 
23 
24 
25 
26 
-.I 
L I  
Secretary; and 
? 


- 2 2 -  
1 
2 
3 
4 
5 
6 
9 1  
' 8  
9 
10 
11 
12 
13 
14 
15 
16 
17 
18 
19 
20 
21 
22 
23 
24 
25 
B 26 
(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 SIPLAS. 
SEC. 22. 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 impletpentation 
of this Act shall be sourced from the IPAF. It shall be included in the annual General 
Appropriations Act if not sufficient. 
ARTICLE Vlll 
TRANSITORY AND MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS 
SEC. 23. Consfrucfion. - The provisions of this Act shall be construed liberally 
in favor of 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. 24. 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 SIPLAS until the Management Plan shall have been put into effect. 


-23 - 
1 
2 
3 
$ 4  
: 5  
6 
7 
8 
9 
10 
11 
12 
13 
14 
15 
16 
17 
Pending the organization of a new PAMB in accordance with this Act, the 
incumbent PAMB members shall continue to hold office until a new PAM6 has been 
convened. 
SEC. 25. 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. 26. 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. 27. Effectivify Clause. - This Act shall be translated in Filipi o 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 
SIPLAS. It shall likewise be conspicuously posted simultaneously in the provincial, 
municipal and barangay halls within the SIPLAS as well as in three other places 
frequented by the public. Fifteen (1 5) days after the last publication and posting, this Act 
shall have full force and effect. 
1 
Approved,