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Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City

‘TWENTIETH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

HOUSE BILL NO. 487

Introduced by HON. TSUYOSHI ANTHONY “HORI” G. HORIBATA

EXPLANATORY NOTE

This measure proposes to declare the Cabusao Wetlands in Barangay Biong in the
Municipality of Cabusao, Camarines Sur, as an Ecotourism Site.

The Cabusao Wetlands in Barangay Biong was officially declared as critical habitat for the
Philippine Duck (Anas Luzonica) by then Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Ramon J.
P. Paje through the signing of the DENR Administrative Order (DAO) No. 2011-10." The Philippine
Duck, which is endemic to the Philippines, is one of many different bird species, both migratory
and endemic, that inhabit the Cabusao Wetlands.

To ensure the long-term sustainability of the Cabusao Wetlands as an ecotourism site, this
measure mandates the development of comprehensive conservation and ecotourism programs,
the designation of the area as a protected zone, the allocation of necessary resources for
management and enforcement, and the engagement of local communities and stakeholders in
promoting eco-tourism and sustainable practices that contribute to both environmental
preservation and local economic development. This approach will also safeguard the diverse bird
species inhabiting the wetlands, with particular emphasis on protecting the Philippine Duck.

The approval of this bill will significantly enhance the holistic progress of Barangay Biong,
fostering community growth and advancing the environmental stewardship not only of the local

community but also of the whole First District of Camarines Sur.

In view of the foregoing, the immediate passage of this bill is earnestly sought.

onthe G. HORIBATA

First District, Camarines Sur



Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quejon City

TWENTIETH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

House Bit no. 487

Introduced by HON. TSUYOSHI ANTHONY “HORI” G. HORIBATA

AN ACT DECLARING THE CABUSAO WETLANDS IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF CABUSAO,
CAMARINES SUR, AS AN ECOTOURISM SITE

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress
assembled:

SECTION 1. Short Title. - This Act shall be known as the "Cabusao Wetlands Ecotourism Act of
2025."

SECTION 2. Declaration of Policy. — The 1987 Philippine Constitution mandates that the State
shalll protect and advance the right of the people to a balanced and healthful ecology in accord
with the rhythm and harmony of nature.

Accordingly, it is hereby declared the policy if the State to promote an ecologically sustainable
and effective tourist industry that will enhance environmental preservation and support socio-
economic development.

SECTION 3. The Cabusao Wetlands Ecotourism Site. - The Cabusao Wetlands in Barangay
Biong, in the Municipality of Cabusao, Province of Camarines Sur is hereby declared as an
ecotourism site. Its development shall be prioritized by the Department of Tourism (DOT) and
shall be subject to the rules and regulations governing the development of ecotourism sites.

The DOT, in coordination with the concerned local government units as well as with the other
concerned government agencies, shall prepare a tourism development plan for the Cabusao
Wetlands which shall be incorporated in the overall National Tourism Development Plan
(NTDP), pursuant to Republic Act No. 9593, otherwise known as “The Tourism Act of 2009”,
and which shall also include the construction and maintenance of infrastructure and facilities
in the area; Provided, That the development plan shall ensure the preservation and
conservation of the scenery and resources of the area.

SECTION 4. Implementing Rules and Regulations. - Within sixty (60) days after the effectivity
of this Act, the Secretary of DOT, in consultation with the concerned local government units,
the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), and other agencies, shall
promulgate the necessary rules and regulations for the effective implementation of this Act.


SECTION 5. Appropriations. - The Secretary of the DOT shall include in the Department's
program the implementation of this Act, the funding of which shall be included in the Annual
General Appropriations Act and internally generated funds of the DOT.

SECTION 6. Repealing Clause. ~ All laws, rules, regulations, proclamations, executive orders
or parts thereof inconsistent with this Act are hereby deemed repealed or amended
accordingly.

SECTION 7. Effectivity - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in the
Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation.

Approved,