Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES. pare 14 JUL 2005

Quezon City TIME 7°32 Pa

TWENTIETH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

House Bill No._1835

Introduced by Representative Wilton “Tonton” T. Kho

AN ACT.
DECLARING THE MATAYUM LAGOON LOCATED IN BARANGAY
MATAYUM, MUNICIPALITY OF CATAINGAN, PROVINCE OF
MASBATE, AN ECOTOURISM DESTINATION

EXPLANATORY NOTE

One of the emerging tourist destinations in the Municipality of Cataingan, Province
of Masbate, is the Matayum Lagoon located in the serene Barangay of Matayum. This
lagoon is known for being picturesque, as it is nestled amidst lush greenery and
surrounded by the tranquil landscape of Masbate.

It offers a peaceful blend of natural splendor and peaceful ambiance. The crystal-
clear waters of the lagoon, reflecting the azure sky and the verdant surroundings, create
a mesmerizing tableau that captivates visitors.

It is believed that this lagoon has an enormous tourism potential, which, if tapped
and developed properly, with due regard and care for its natural beauty and
sustainability, could be a source of revenue for local businesses, create jobs, and improve
basic services of the community.

Thus, the passage of this bill is earne:

REP. WILTON “TONTON” T. KHO
Third District, Masbate Province



Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City

TWENTIETH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

House Bill No. 183 5

Introduced by Representative Wilton “Tonton” T. Kho

AN ACT.
DECLARING THE MATAYUM LAGOON LOCATED IN BARANGAY
MATAYUM, MUNICIPALITY OF CATAINGAN, PROVINCE OF
MASBATE, AN ECOTOURISM DESTINATION

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

SECTION 1. The Matayum Lagoon, located in Barangay Matayum, Municipality of
Cataingan, Province of Masbate, is hereby declared an ecotourism destination. Pursuant
thereto, its development shall be prioritized and supported by the Department of Tourism
(DOT), subject to the rules and regulations governing the development of ecotourism
destinations.

Sec. 2. Within one (1) year after the approval of this Act, the municipal government of
Cataingan shall, in coordination with the provincial government of Masbate, DOT, Department
of Environment and Natural Resources and concerned agencies of the government, prepare a
tourism development plan that shall include the construction, installation and maintenance of
such appropriate infrastructure and facilities to enhance tourism in the area: Provided, That
said development plan shall ensure the preservation and conservation of the natural beauty and
resources of the area: Provided further, That the implementation of the tourism development
plan shall be included in the budget of the municipal government of Cataingan,

Sec. 3. The DOT shall assist the municipal government of Cataingan in the
implementation of the tourism development plan by providing technical assistance in tourism
capacity building. It shall also include the Matayum Lagoon in its national and regional
promotion programs.

Sec. 4. The funding for the implementation of this Act shall be included in the annual
budget of the municipal government of Cataingan. The DOT may augment such allocation with
internally-generated funds.

Sec. 5. Within sixty (60) days from the effectivity of this Act, the municipal
government of Cataingan shall, in consultation with the DOT and concerned agencies of the
government, promulgate rules and regulations to implement this Act.


See. 6. All laws, rules, regulations, presidential decrees and other issuances
inconsistent with any of the provisions of this Act are hereby deemed repealed or amended
accordingly.

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

Approved,