NINETEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
Second Regular Session
SENATE
Senate Bill No. 2533
> I ilil ‘
of tije £•- r
24 FEB-6 P2S5
RECEIVED B'
Introduced by Senator Juan Miguel F. Zubiri
AN ACT
DECLARING A PARCEL OF LAND LOCATED IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF 
NARRA, IN THE PROVINCE OF PALAWAN, A PROTECTED AREA WITH 
THE CATEGORY OF WILDLIFE SANCTUARY UNDER THE NATIONAL 
INTEGRATED PROTECTED AREAS SYSTEM (NIPAS) TO BE REFERRED TO 
AS THE RASA ISLAND WILDLIFE SANCTUARY, PROVIDING FOR ITS 
MANAGEMENT, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Article II, Section 16 of the 1987 Constitution provides that the State shall 
protect and advance the right of the people to a balanced and healthful ecology 
in accord with the rhythm and harmony of nature.
Rasa Island is situated in the jurisdiction of the Municipality of Narra in the 
southern part of Palawan. It has a total area of one thousand nine hundred 
eighty-three (1,983) hectares. The island was declared as Wildlife Sanctuary 
under Presidential Proclamation No. 1000 on 15 February 2006 pursuant to the 
National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS) Act of 1992 in order to 
effectively protect and conserve the Philippine Cockatoo Cacatua haematuropygia 
and other threatened species of fauna and flora, and to preserve and enhance 
the ecosystem services of the pristine island.
The Rasa Island Wildlife Sanctuary (RIWS) is the habitat of the critically 
endangered Philippine Cockatoo Cacatua haematuropygia in Narra, Palawan and 
the stronghold of the wild population of this species where up to 38% of its 
global population could be found. It is crucial for the survival of the species and 
its recovery within its historical range in the country. The Philippine Cockatoo is 
the flagship species of Narra, Palawan through Municipal Ordinance 2018-844.
The Rasa Island Wildlife Sanctuary (RIWS) has a coastal forest, one of the last 
examples of an intact lowland forest on a small coral island in the Philippines and 
has 709.71 hectares of mangrove forest on 52% of Rasa Island's surface area 
and 222 hectares of coral reefs. At least 68 plant species, most of which are 
nest- and food-providing trees for the Philippine Cockatoo and other wildlife in 
the island, are present in the coastal forest. RIWS is home to 113 bird species, 
12 reptiles, nine mammals and 132 species of fish currently listed. RIWS 
supports a large number of other globally threatened and restricted range


species, like Grey Imperial Pigeon Ducula pickeringii, Blue-headed Racquet-tail 
Prioniturus platenae, Mantanani Scops Owl Otus mantananensis, Nicobar Pigeon 
Caloenas nicobarica, Chinese Egret Egretta eulophotes, three species of marine 
turtles and Dugong Dugong dugon.
Biodiversity values of ecosystem services of Rasa Island Wildlife Sanctuary, 
Narra, Palawan have been clearly demonstrated also in monetary terms. The 
biodiversity of Rasa provides direct and indirect benefits to its stakeholders: its 
mangroves and coral reefs support fishery resources in Narra and, the island 
protects the adjacent areas from storm surges and serves as core habitat of the 
Philippine Cockatoo, among others.
The preservation of the environment is not a duty but a responsibility that should 
be practiced by each and every citizen of the State for the simple reason that its 
benefits will not only be for the present generation but for the future as well. It 
will also support the ongoing concerted and collaborative efforts of the Local 
Government of Narra, Palawan, the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) 
of RIWS and the citizens of Narra. It it for these reasons that the strengthened 
protection and conservation of Rasa Island Wildlife Sanctuary therefore is 
urgently needed.
In light of the perceived uncertain future and challenges we face with climate 
change and unsustainable development programs, it is but suitable that its 
protection be implemented for the benefit of all humanity in general and for the 
benefit of the Filipino people in particular in accord with the provision enshrined 
in the Constitution.
In view of the forgoing, the passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
N MIGUEL F. ZUBIRI


NINETEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
Second Regular Session
)
)
)
SENATE
Senate Bill No. 2533
of tin*
24 FEB -6 P2 55
RECEIVLOBV:.
Introduced by Senator Juan Miguel F. Zubiri
AN ACT
DECLARING A PARCEL OF LAND LOCATED IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF 
NARRA, IN THE PROVINCE OF PALAWAN, A PROTECTED AREA WITH 
THE CATEGORY OF WILDLIFE SANCTUARY UNDER THE NATIONAL 
INTEGRATED PROTECTED AREAS SYSTEM (NIPAS) TO BE REFERRED TO 
AS THE RASA ISLAND WILDLIFE SANCTUARY, PROVIDING FOR ITS 
MANAGEMENT, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of the Representatives of the 
Philippines in Congress assembled:
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ARTICLE I
GENERAL PROVISIONS
SECTION 1. TITLE. - This Act shall be known as the "Rasa Island Wildlife 
Sanctuary Act."
SEC. 2. DECLARATION OF POLICY. - It is the policy of the State to protect 
and advance the right of the people to a balanced and healthful ecology in 
accord with the rhythm and harmony of nature. As a habitat for endemic and 
endangered species of flora and fauna, the State shall ensure the conservation, 
rehabilitation, and protection of biodiversity of the Rasa Island Wildlife Sanctuary 
(RIWS) which shall include, among others, the preservation of the Philippine 
Cockatoo, the economic significance of the RIWS, and the survival of the 
communities dependent on this protected area, their culture and way of life 
insofar as they are in harmony with nature. The State shall likewise ensure that 
the ecological systems and the magnitude of biological diversity of this protected 
area shall not be altered. The State shall further ensure that the precautionary 
principles shall be applied in the management of the RIWS and the 
implementation of its regulations and management plans.
It is also the policy of the State to preserve and rehabilitate the RIWS as a 
habitat for endemic, endangered and unique flora and fauna species and as an 
ecotourism zone, and shall undertake steps to preserve its integrity for future 
generations.


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Pursuant to the provisions of Repubiic Act (RA) No. 11038 or the Expanded 
National Integrated Protected Area System Act (ENIPAS) which amends RA No. 
7586 or NIPAS), RA No. 7611 or the Strategic Environmental Plan for Palawan 
(SEP Law), RA No. 8371 or the Indigenous People's Rights Act (IPRA), the State 
shaii ensure the conservation and protection of the protected area through a 
sustainabie and participatory development, and advance and protect the interest 
of its legitimate inhabitants and honor customary laws in accordance with 
pertinent provisions of existing laws and other applicable international laws to 
which the Philippines is signatory.
SEC. 3. LAND CLASSIFICATION. - AN lands and waters of the public domain 
comprising the Rasa Isiand Wiidiife Sanctuary shaii fall under the classification of 
a nationai park as provided for in the 1987 Phiiippine Constitution.
SEC. 4. SCOPE AND COVERAGE. - Pursuant to and in accordance with Section 
3 of the NIPAS Act, as amended by ENIPAS Act, the Rasa Isiand Wildlife 
Sanctuary, located in Barangay, Panacan, Municipality of Narra, Palawan, shall be 
hereby declared as a protected area under the category of a wildlife sanctuary 
category. The physicai, naturai features, sociocuitural and economic importance 
of RIWS all contribute to the protected area's valuabie role as a life support 
system for the people living around it. The Rasa Island Wildlife Sanctuary 
constitutes land, mangroves, marine areas and inter tidai zones, and more 
particularly described as foilows:
The Line Cor. 1 is N. 89° 23' E. 2,068.89 meters from BLLM #1, PLS-23 of 
Narra, Paiawan (formerly Aborlan) at latitude 9° 14' 47.284" and longitude 118° 
24'26.227",
Thence N 37° 40' E 1,165.47 meters to corner 2;
Thence S 80° 
12' E 1,084.08 meters to corner 3;
Thence S 55° 
22' E 1,298.12 meters to corner 4;
Thence S 35° 
55' E 910.59 meters to corner 5;
Thence S 09° 
08' E 1,165.47 meters to corner 6;
Thence Due South 1,474.96 meters to corner 7;
Thence S 43° 57' W 1,024.41 meters to corner 8;
Thence S 62° 35' W 809.94 meters to corner 9;
Thence Due West 1,066.52 meters to corner 10;
Thence S 43° 57' W 768.30 meters to corner 11;
Thence S 80° 11' W 1,082.34 meters to corner 12;
Thence N 55° 19' W 648.49 meters to corner 13;


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Thence N 13° 32' W 759.11 meters to corner 14;
Thence N 17 50' E 1,162.92 meters to corner 15
Thence N 37 40' E 1,165.47 meters to corner 16;
Thence Due North 1,107.06 meters to corner 17;
Thence N 10° 55' E 939.57 meters to corner 1;
Thence N 10° 55' E 939.57 meters to corner 1; the point of beginning containing 
an area of One Thousand Nine Hundred Eighty-Three (1,983) hectares (4,900- 
acre) bird sanctuary, subject to actual ground survey and verification by the 
DENR immediately after the effectivity of this Act.
Any modification of this Act due to factors such as changing ecological situations, 
new scientific, archaeological finding or discovery of traditional boundaries not 
previously considered shall be made through an Act of Congress passed after full 
consultation with the affected stakeholders and other concerned government 
agencies.
SEC. 5. DEFINITION OF TERMS. - For purposes of this Act:
a) Ancestral Domain - refers to all lands and natural resources occupied or 
possessed by indigenous cultural communities, by themselves or through 
their ancestors, communally or individually, in accordance with their 
customs and tradition since time immemorial, continuously to the present 
except when interrupted by war, force majeure, or displacement by force, 
deceit or stealth. It includes all adjacent areas generally belonging to 
them and which are necessary to ensure their economic, social and 
cultural welfare;
b) Biological diversity or biodiversity - refers to the variability among 
the living organisms from all sources including, inter alia, terrestrial, 
marine and other aquatic ecosystems and the ecological complexes of 
which they are part, and this includes diversity within species, between 
species and of ecosystems;
c) Biological Resources - refer to genetic resources, organisms or part 
thereof; population or any other biotic components of the ecosystems with 
actual or potential use or value for humanity;
d) Bioprospecting - refers to the research, collection and utiiization of 
biological and genetic resources for the purpose of applying the 
knowledge derived therefrom solely for commercial purposes;
e) Buffer Zone - refers to the identified area outside the boundaries of, and 
immediately adjacent to, designated protected areas that need special 
development control in order to avoid or minimize harm to the protected 
area;


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f) By-products and derivatives - refer to parts taken or substance 
extracted from wildlife, in raw or in processed form;
g) CITES - refers to the Conservation on International Trade of Endangered 
Species of wild flora and fauna including all its appendices referring to the 
lists of species differentially regulated therein;
h) Collecting - refers to the act of gathering or harvesting wildlife and its 
by-products or derivatives;
i) Conservation - refers to the preservation and sustainable utilization of 
wildlife, and/or maintenance, restoration and enhancement of the habitat;
j) Conveyance - refers to every kind of vessel, including motorized or non- 
motorized vehicles, non-displacement crafts and seaplanes that are used 
or maybe used as a means of transportation on land or water and shall 
include everything found therein except personal effects;
k) Consultation - shall refer to the meeting or dialogue with concerned or 
affected individuals and groups within and outside the RIWS, designed to 
identify and resolve issues and problems affecting them in relation to the 
protection, conservation and sustainable development of RIWS;
l) Delineation - refers to the actual ground survey of the boundaries of 
protected areas and their buffer zones and management zones using the 
global positioning system (GPS) or other applicable survey instruments 
and technologies, with the intention of producing a map in the area;
m) Demarcation - refers to the establishment of the boundaries of 
protected areas and their buffer zones using visible markers, monuments, 
buoys in case of marine areas, and known natural features and 
landmarks, among others, as a result of the actual ground delineation;
n) Endangered species - refer to species or subspecies whose population 
is in danger of extinction and whose survival is unlikely if the casual 
factors continue operating;
o) Endemic species - refer to species or subspecies which are naturally 
occurring and found only within specific areas in the country;
p) Exotic species - refer to species or subspecies of flora and fauna which 
do not naturally occur within RIWS at present or in historical time;
q) Exploration - refers to the act of discovering, searching, prospecting for 
mineral resources that include oil and gas as defined by law, by 
geological, geochemical surveys, remote sensing, test pitting trenching, 
drilling underground, shaft sinking, tunneling, or any other means for the 
purpose of determining the existence, extent, quantity, and quality of 
resources in the area, and the feasibility of utilizing these resources for 
profit;


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r) Exploitation - refers to any mode of use, extraction, development, 
utilization or disposition of resources for whatever purpose, whether 
commercial or otherwise;
s) Gear - refers to any instrument or device and its accessories utilized in 
taking, catching, gathering, killing, hunting, destroying, disturbing, 
removing, or possessing resources within the protected area;
t) Genetically modified organism (GMO) - refers to any living organism 
that possesses a novel combination of genetic material through the use of 
modern biotechnology;
u) Habitat - refers to an area inhabited by wildlife in its natural state;
v) Hunting - refers to the catching or killing of terrestrial and aquatic 
species such as dugong, pawikan, giant clams and other wild fauna for 
food and recreational purposes, with the use of weapons such as guns, 
gear, bow and arrow, spears, traps and snares, and the like;
w) Indigenous Cultural Communities (ICC)/ Indigenous Peoples 
(IPs) - refer to a group of people sharing common bonds of language, 
customs, traditions, and other distinctive cultural traits, and who have, 
since time immemorial, occupied, possessed and utilized a territory;
x) Indigenous species - refer to relative Philippine species or subspecies 
with an existing or historical natural occurrence and distribution within the 
RIWS;
y) Integrated Protected Area Fund (IPAF) - refers to the special 
account established for the purpose of financing projects of the NIPAS 
and individual protected areas;
z) Invasive alien species - refer to species introduced deliberately or 
unintentionally outside their natural habitats where they have the ability 
to establish themselves, invade, outcompete native species, and take over 
the new environment;
aa) Introduction - refers to bringing species into the wild that is outside its 
natural habitat;
bb) Management plan - is the basic long-term framework plan for the 
management of the protected area and guide in the preparation of its 
annual operation plan and budget;
cc) Mineral - refers to all naturally occurring inorganic substance in solid, 
gas, liquid, or any intermediate state including energy materials such as 
coal, petroleum, natural gas, radioactive materials and geothermal 
energy;
dd)Multiple-use zone - refers to area where settlement, traditional or 
sustainable land use, including agriculture, agroforestry, extraction 
activities, may be allowed to the extent prescribed in the protected area 
management plan;


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ee) National Integrated Protected Area System (NIPAS) - refers to 
the classification and administration of ail designated protected areas for 
the purpose of maintaining essential ecological processes and life support 
systems, preserving genetic diversity, ensuring sustainable use of 
resources found therein, and maintaining their naturai conditions to the 
greatest extent possible;
ff) Non-government organization - refers to an agency, institution, a 
foundation or a group whose purpose is to assist peopie's 
organizations/associations in various ways inciuding, but not iimited to 
organizing, educating, training, research and/or resource assessing;
gg) Occupation - refers to a continuous stay of individuais or groups within 
a protected area, whether residing or engaging cultivation of iand or 
fishing for more than twenty-four (24) hours;
hh) Palawan Council for Sustainable Development (PCSD) - refers to 
the multi-sectorai and inter-disciplinary body, which under the Strategic 
Environment Pian for Palawan is charged with the governance, 
implementation and poiicy direction of RA No. 7611 or the SEP law;
ii) People's organization - refers to a bona fide association of citizens 
with demonstrated capacity to promote the public interest and with 
identifiable leadership, membership, and structure;
jj) Poaching - refers to gathering, coilecting, or possessing products or 
natural resources from the protected area by any individual person, 
corporation or entity whether iocal or foreign; in the case of marine 
protected areas, operating any foreign fishing vessels by any person, 
corporation, or entity without a permit;
kk) Protected area - refers to identified portions of land and/or water set 
aside by reason of their unique physicai and bioiogicai diversity and 
protected against destructive human exploitation;
ii) Protected Area Management Board - refers to a muiti-sectorai policy 
making body for protected areas created in accordance with the ENIPAS 
Act, and consistent with the SEP Law;
mm) Protected species - refer to piants or animals declared protected 
under Philippine laws, rules and regulations. These shall also include all 
species iisted under the Conservation on Internationai Trade of 
Endangered Species of Wiid Fauna and Flora and all its Annexes, the 
Convention of the Conservation of Migratory Species (CMS), specified 
under the red-list categories of the Internationai Union for the 
Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (lUCN), or any plant or 
animal which the DENR, PAMB, PCSD or any government agency may 
deem necessary for the conservation and preservation in the protected 
area;
nn) Quarrying - refers to the process of extracting, removing and disposing 
of sand, gravei, guano, iimestone, and ali other resources used as fiiling.


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building and construction materials that are found within the protected 
area;
00)Recreational zones - refer to areas of high recreational, tourism, 
educational or environmental awareness values where sustainable 
ecotourism, recreational conservation education or public awareness 
activities may be allowed as prescribed in the management plan;
pp) Sustainable - refers 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 exploitation of non-renewable 
resources in commercial qualities which will significantly alter the 
ecosystem or contribute to the extinction of species;
qq) Strict protection zones - refer to areas with high biodiversity value 
which shall be closed to all human activity except for scientific studies;
rr) Tenured migrants - refer to individuals and households within the RIWS 
who have actually and continuously occupied such protected area on or 
before July 12, 1995 and are substantially dependent therein for 
subsistence;
ss) Wiidiife - refers to wild forms and varieties of flora and fauna, in all 
developmental stages, including those which are in captivity or are being 
bred, fed, or propagated; and
tt) Wiidiife sanctuary - refers to an area which assures the natural 
conditions necessary to protect nationally significant species, group of 
species, biotic communities or physical features of the environment which 
may require specific human manipulations for their perpetuation.
ARTICLE II
MANAGEMENT MECHANISMS
SEC. 6. PROTECTED AREA MANAGEMENT PLAN (PAMP). - Within one (1) 
year from the effectivity of this Act, the RIWS Management Plan that has been 
prepared by the PAMB in consultation with various stakeholders shall be adopted. 
The management plan shall serve as the basic long-term framework plan in the 
management of the RIWS and guide in the preparation of the annual operations 
plan and budget. The management plan embodies, among others:
a) Period of applicability is ten (10) years subject to periodic review every 
five (5) years;
b) Vision, goals and objectives of the management of the protected area;
c) Mechanism strategy in the management of the protected area including, 
but not limited to, the establishment of clear and simplified guidelines on 
the activities that can be done within the zones, including the buffer 
zones, to effectively manage the protected area;


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d) Key management issues such as, but not limited to, issuance, screening 
and approval of all development and resource-use activities within the 
RIWS and adequate protection and restoration of endangered species and 
fragiie ecosystems;
e) Set mechanisms or basis for enforcement of existing laws and regulations 
and addressing conflict resources issues;
f) Mechanisms to ensure adequate consultation and participatory decision­
making processes, and recognizing the role and participation of the PAMB 
members.
The management plan shall be consistent with the nature of the RIWS as a 
wildlife sanctuary. It shali be approved by the RIWS, PAMB, and all relevant 
agencies will be furnished a copy of the plan.
The management plan shall be harmonized with the Ancestral Domain 
Sustainable Development Protection Plan (ADSDPP) as required under RA No. 
8371 or the Indigenous People's Rights Act (IPRA), the Comprehensive Land Use 
Plan of the local government as required under the Local Government Code and 
other local plans such as the Comprehensive Land Use and Water Plan (CLUWP).
SEC. 7. ZONING. - The identification of the zones and the criteria in the 
delineation and demarcation shall be adopted within the protected area, giving 
consideration to the protection and conservation of flora and fauna in accordance 
with applicable laws, rules and regulations: Provided, That the identification and 
the designation of zones shall be undertaken In coordination with the PCSD, 
concerned LGUs and other stakeholders and consistent with the existing laws 
applicable to the protected area.
SEC. 8. ADMINISTRATION AND MANAGEMENT OF RIWS. - As provided 
under the ENIPAS Act, the management of the RIWS shall be directly vested with 
the Protected Area Management Board.
The PAMB shall have jurisdiction, power and authority over the RIWS, on matters 
concerning the implementation of the PAMB's authority and on matters that 
generally relate to biodiversity conservation, protection and sustainable 
development without prejudice to the implementation of special laws, including 
but not limited to, the SEP law. Wildlife Act, Chainsaw Act, Caves Act, Fisheries 
Code and other similar environmental laws. To harmonize all conservation efforts 
within the protected area, there must be an established and adequate 
coordination mechanism between the LGUs, DENR, PCSD and other relevant 
stakeholders.
SEC. 9. PROTECTED AREA MANAGEMENT BOARD (PAMB). - Within ninety 
(90) days from the effectivity of this Act, a PAMB shall be created. It shall be 
composed of the following:
a. DENR Regionai Executive Director of MIMAROPA Region as Chair;
b. Governor of the Province of Palawan;
c. 2nd District Representative of Palawan;


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d. Mayor of the Municipality of Narra;
e. Chairperson/s of the barangays (Antipuluan, Panacan I, Panacan II) 
where the RIWS is located;
f. Executive Director of the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development or 
his/her designated representative;
g. Regional Directors of the Department of Agriculture (DA), the National 
Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), the Department of Science 
and Technology (DOST), the Philippine National Police (PNP), and the 
Department of National Defense (DND) or their duly authorized 
representative;
h. Three (3) representatives from either an NGO or PO, duly accredited both 
by the DENR and the municipal government. The NGO or PO represented 
must have been in existence for at least five (5) years and with track 
record in protected area management;
i. At least one (1) but not more than three (3) representatives from all the 
IPs/ICCs present in the area and recognized by the National Commission 
on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP);
j. Two (2) representatives from academic institutions, preferably from 
universities or colleges where the RIWS is located, with proven track 
record in or related to protected area management; and
k. One (1) representative from the private sector, preferably a resident from 
the Municipality of Narra who is distinguished in a profession or field of 
interest relevant to protected area management.
Ex officio member or members of the PAMB by virtue of their elective or 
appointive government positions, as specified in the preceding paragraphs (a), 
(b), (c), (d), (e), and (f), shall serve for the duration of their respective terms of 
office in their respective elective or appointive positions.
Members of the PAMB other than those mentioned in the preceding paragraph 
shall be appointed by the DENR Secretary after the conduct of a transparent and 
fair selection process. They shall serve a term of three (3) years and may be 
reappointed for another term.
In the selection of the representatives of POs and NGOs, preference shall be 
accorded to those organizations that are involved in the conservation, protection 
and development of the RIWS. Representation shall be by institution and shall 
aim to achieve balance in representation by geographic location or areas.
The members of the PAMB shall not receive a salary, but shall be entitled to 
reimbursement for actual and necessary expenses incurred, either in attendance 
in meeting with the Board or in connection with official business authorized by 
resolution by the Board.
The members duly appointed prior to the effectivity of this Act shall continue 
their term until the expiration of their appointment.


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A member of the PAMB may be removed for any of the following grounds:
a. More than three (3) consecutive unexcused absences from regular 
meetings of the management board;
b. 
Commission of acts prejudicial to the management of the protected area 
as embodied in Section 18 hereof and/or its other existing rules and 
regulations;
c. Disassociation from the office or organization being represented;
d. Termination of relationship with the office or organization being 
represented; or
e. Conviction by final judgment of any criminal act.
SEC. 10. POWERS AND FUNCTIONS OF THE RIWS-PAMB - In addition to 
the powers and functions enumerated in the implementing ruies and regulations 
of the ENIPAS Act, the RIWS-PAMB shail have the foilowing powers and 
functions:
a. Approve poiicies, guidelines, plans and programs, proposals, agreements 
and other relevant documents including the manual of operations for the 
management of the protected area;
b. Assist in the ground delineation and demarcation of the boundaries of the 
protected area and buffer zone;
c. Ensure the implementation of programs as prescribed in the management 
pian of the protected area and its approved work and financial plan;
d. Monitor and evaluate the progress in the impiementation of the 
management pian;
e. Monitor and assess the performance of the PASu and other protected area 
personnei, and compliance of partners to the items and conditions of any 
undertaking, contract or agreements;
f. Recommend fees and other charges to the DENR Secretary for the use of 
protected area;
g. Perform such other functions necessary for the fuifiilment of the 
provisions of this Act and other appiicable laws, rules and regulations, and 
as may be required;
h. Decide matters relating to pianning, resource use and protection, and 
general administration of the area in accordance with the management 
plan;
i. 
Promulgate rules and regulations and impose penalties for vioiations 
thereof;
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j. 
Exercise quasi-judicial functions for adjudicating cases of violations of this 
Act and impose penalties for violations of guidelines, rules, and 
regulations within the RIWS;
k. Establish productive partnership, with national and local agencies, local 
government units, local communities, the academe, nongovernmental 
organizations, and such other institutions to ensure the conservation and 
management of the RIWS;
l. Initiate the implementation of the delineation of the boundaries of the 
RIWS and provide a map and legal descriptions of natural boundaries of 
RIWS;
m. Control and regulate construction, operation and maintenance of structure 
and utilities within the RIWS;
n. Appoint the RIWS PASu, and, upon recommendation of the PASu, appoint 
management personnel based on internal selection criteria and decide on 
their compensation and benefits;
0. Generate funds and accept donations and grants, appropriate and 
disburse the same, and exercise accountability over all funds that may 
accrue to the RIWS;
p. Manage the RIWS Trust Fund, as herein provided;
q. Deputize individuals for the enforcement of laws, rules and regulations 
governing conduct within the RIWS, and prescribe the necessary 
qualifications therefor;
r. Retain legal counsel to defend cases against the PAMB and the Office of 
the PASu whenever they are sued in connection with the performance of 
their duties under this Act, guidelines, and rules and regulations pertaining 
to the RIWS;
s. Provide adequate measures to ensure consultation and participation of 
stakeholders;
t. Possess authority to issue permits and conditions thereto, and determine 
and collect fees, for the utilization and enjoyment of the RIWS and the 
resources therein: Provided, That the RIWS may delegate to the PASu the 
authority to issue permits and collect fees for temporary access to the 
RIWS; Provided, however. That entry into the RIWS for emergency 
reasons shall not be subject to permit and users' fees;
u. Determine, based on existing scientific evidence, laws, rules and 
regulations, international instruments, traditional resource utilization, 
management modalities in the area, carrying capacity, and observing 
precautionary principle, the modes of utilization of the RIWS and all the 
resources found therein. Permits shall only be issued for such modes of 
utilization and enjoyment as the RIWS and this Act shall allow;
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V. Adopt a manual of operations to include rules of procedures in the 
conduct of business, and the creation of committees and their respective 
terms of reference;
w. Allocate financial resources for the implementation of the management 
plan and manage the Protected Area Retention Income Account and other 
funds in accordance with government accounting, budgeting, and auditing 
rules and regulations; and
X. Recommend appropriate policy changes to the DENR and other 
government authorities with respect to the management of the RIWS.
The PAMB, in coordination with the LGU, DENR, PCSD and other relevant 
stakeholders shall ensure that the management of the RIWS is within the scope 
of its powers and functions. In case of conflict between policies, programs and 
plans of other government agencies' administrative orders, such conflict shall be 
resolved by RIWS PAMB on the basis of its PAMP.
SEC. 11. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE. - The RIWS PAMB may create an 
Executive Committee (ExeCom) from among themselves and shall be authorized 
to perform some of the tasks and functions of the PAMB, if it is deemed 
necessary.
SEC. 12. PROTECTED AREA MANAGEMENT OFFICE (PAMO). - There is 
hereby established a Protected Area Management Office (PAMO) to be headed 
by a Protected Area Superintendent (PASu) with a permanent plantilla position 
who shall supervise the management, protection and administration of the RIWS.
The PASu shall be primarily accountable to the PAMB and the DENR for the 
management and operations of the RIWS. Pursuant thereto, the PASu shall have 
the following duties and responsibilities:
a) Enhance rules and regulations to protect the area from trespassing, 
damage, vandalism and illegal occupancy. In case of seizure, he/she shall 
assume the custody of the apprehended item. The disposition of the 
confiscated items shall be subject to the clearance from the PAMB except 
those items that are held under custogia legis, those that are subject of 
donation, those that must be deposited with the appropriate government 
agency and those that will be utilized for the DENR's own needs in 
accordance with the existing related rules and regulations;
b) Issue permits for the use of facilities and amenities except those 
considered as special uses, as defined under DENR Administrative Order 
2008-26;
c) Issue certification whether the proposed activity/project allowable or not 
within the management zones;
d) Submit quarterly progress report to the PAMB;
e) Serve as head secretariat to the PAMB and its committees;
f) Collect and/or receive pertinent fees, charges, donations and other 
income for the protected area: Provided, That such fees, charges.
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donations and other income coiiected/received shali be reported regularly 
to the PAMB and the DENR in accordance with the existing guidelines;
g) Prepare and recommend to the PAMB approval of the annual work and 
financial plans of the protected area based on the management plan;
h) Develop a management information system to ensure that the relevant 
and updated information are available for planning, monitoring and 
decision-making; and
i) Perform such other functions as the RIWS PAMB and the DENR may 
deiegate.
The PASu shall be supported with a sufficient number of staff with permanent 
plantilla position to be appointed by the DENR Secretary who shall be performing 
the day-to-day management, protection and administration of the RIWS for the 
efficient operations of the protected area. The PAMO staff shail be responsible 
primarily for research, conservation, monitoring and enforcement.
SECT. 13. ANCESTRAL DOMAINS AND CUSTOMARY RIGHTS. - Ancestrai 
domains and other customary rights and interest of indigenous 
communities/peopies shail be accorded due recognition. The preservation of the 
ancestrai domain and customary rights shail be considered as one of the 
management objectives. The maintenance, management and development of 
ancestral domains which are found to be necessary for the RIWS wiii be 
pursuant to Section 58 of the IPRA iaw. The identification, delineation and 
recognition of ancestral domain claims within the RIWS shail be conducted by 
the NCIP pursuant to the provisions of the IPRA, and its impiementing ruies and 
regulations, in coordination with the PAMB.
Nothing herein shali be construed to impair or diminish prior and existing rights 
currentiy enjoyed by the indigenous cultural communities or indigenous peoples 
as provided for by the existing laws.
SEC. 14. EXISTING RIGHTS. - All properties and rights within the protected 
area aiready existing or vested prior to the effectivity of this Act shaii be 
protected and respected in accordance with existing iaws: Provided, That the 
exercise of such property and private rights shail be harmonized, as far as 
practicabie with the provisions of this Act. Consequently, all lands that were 
already classified as alienable and disposable or agricultural lands prior to the 
passage of this Act shall continue to be ciassified as such and shall be available 
for disposition and titling subject to existing rules and regulations.
The renewal of permits, contracts, and agreements shall be subject to the 
provisions of this Act. If the permits, contracts, agreements are not renewed, 
such areas shall be rehabilitated or restored by the permit holders within the 
period provided by the pertinent laws shall revert to the national park 
classification. As such, aii holders of permits, contracts, and agreements are 
required to prepare and submit a rehabiiitation plan to the RIWS PAMB: 
Provided, That upon renewal, a sufficient bond shail be remitted by the 
proponent to the DENR to be released to the depository bank in the event of 
damage by a ciosure of the establishment after satisfactory rehabilitation
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according to the zones and objectives of the management pian as attested by 
the RIWS PAMB.
SEC. 15. RIWS Recognized Occupants/Claimants. - Recognized 
Occupants/Ciaimants shaii be eiigible to become stewards of portions of lands 
within multiple-use zones. The RIWS PAMB shall identify, verify, and review all 
land claims for possible organization to acquire a legal tenurial agreement 
consistent with the zoning provided in the management plan.
Should areas occupied by recognized claimants/occupants be designated as 
zones in which no occupation or other activities are allowed pursuant to the 
attainment of the sustainable development, the provision for the transfer of the 
recognized claimants/occupants to multiple-use zones shall be accomplished 
through just and humane means: Provided, That protected area occupants who 
are not qualified as recognized claimants/occupants shall be resettled outside the 
protected area.
The rights of the recognized claimants/occupants may be transferred only to the 
spouse or one of their direct descendants listed at the time of the survey. In the 
event of termination of a tenurial agreement for cause or by voluntary surrender 
of rights, the PASu shall take immediate steps to rehabilitate the area to return it 
to its natural state.
ARTICLE III
UTILIZATION OF RESOURCES
SEC. 16. MAJOR FACILITIES WITHIN RIWS. - Since its establishments as a 
protected area, the RIWS has no major existing facilities such as roads, 
buildings, water systems, transmission lines, communication facilities, heavy 
equipment and irrigation facilities existing within its boundaries. Considering its 
nature as a wildlife sanctuary, major facilities shall be considered inappropriate 
inside the RIWS.
Existing minor structures for protection, enforcement and tourism activities shall 
be maintained.
SEC. 17. UTILIZATION OF RESOURCES. - Any exploitation or utilization of 
non-renewable resources within the prohibited zones of RIWS shall not be 
allowed.
The PAMB shall issue guidelines for utilization of resources inside the designated 
multiple use zones.
CHAPTER IV
PROHIBITIONS AND PENALTIES
SEC. 18. PROHIBITED ACTS. - Unless otherwise allowed and in pursuant to 
existing rules and regulations, the following acts shall be prohibited within the 
protected area:
a. Poaching, killing, taking, hunting, destroying, collecting, disturbing, or 
possessing of any wildlife derived from the RIWS without the necessary
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permit, authorization, or exemption: Provided, That the hunting of animals 
shall be absolutely prohibited except if the collection is for scientific 
research and for traditional hunting by the IPs/ICCS;
b. Cutting, gathering, removing, or collecting timber or any forest products, 
and agricultural products within the RIWS without the necessary permit, 
authorization, or exemption;
c. Possessing or transporting outside the RIWS any timber, forest products 
wild terrestrial or aquatic plants, animals, flora or fauna, or by-product 
derived therefrom which is ascertained to have been taken from the 
RIWS;
d. Using any fishing or harvesting gear and practices or any of their 
variations that destroy coral reefs, seagrass beds or other marine life and 
their associated habitat in as may be determined by the PAMB, LGU, 
PSCD, Department of Agriculture - Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic 
Resources (DA-BFAR) or DENR: Provided, That mere possession of such 
gears within the protected area shall be prima facie evidence of their use;
e. Docking of vessels and entering within the restricted areas without permit 
from the PAMB;
f. Dumping, throwing, using or causing to be dumped into or placed in the 
RIWS any toxic chemical, noxious or poisonous substances or non- 
biodegradable material, animal waste or products whether in solid, liquid, 
or gas state, including pesticides and other hazardous substance as 
defined under RA No. 6969 or the "Toxic Substances and Hazardous and 
Nuciear Waste Control Act of 1990";
g. Altering, removing, destroying or defacing boundary marks or signages;
h. Engaging in kaingin or any manner causing for forest fire in the protected 
area;
i. 
Mutilating, defacing, destroying, excavating, vandalizing, or in any manner 
damaging any natural formation, religious, spiritual, historical sites, 
artifacts and other objects of natural beauty, scenic value or objects of 
interest to IPs/ICCs;
j. Littering or depositing refuse or debris on the ground or in bodies of 
water;
k. Possessing or using blasting caps or explosives for fishing and/or for other 
purposes within the RIWS;
l. 
Occupying or dwelling in any public land within the protected area without 
clearance from the PAMB;
m. Constructing, erecting, or maintaining any kind of structure, fence, or 
enclosure, conducting any business enterprise within the RIWS without 
prior clearance from the RIWS-PAMB and permit from the DENR and 
PCSD, or conducting these activities in a manner that is inconsistent with 
the management plan duly approved by the PAMB;
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n. Undertaking mineral exploration or extraction within the protected area;
0. Engaging in quarrying, whether smaii or iarge/commercial-scaie, within 
the RIWS;
p. Establishing or introducing exotic species, inciuding geneticaily-modified 
organisms (GMOs) or invasive aiien species within the RIWS;
q. Conducting bioprospecting within the RIWS without prior PAMB clearance 
in accordance with existing guidelines: Provided, That as a condition to 
the penalty provided herein, any commercial use of any substance derived 
from non-permitted bioprospecting within RIWS wiil not be aiiowed and ali 
revenue earned from iiiegai commercialization thereof shaii be fortified 
and deposited as part of the RIWS Fund;
r. Prospecting or otherwise iocating hidden treasure within RIWS;
s. Purchasing or soiling, mortgaging or ieasing iands or other portions of the 
RIWS which are covered by any tenurial instrument;
t. Constructing any permanent structure within the forty (40) meter 
easement from the high-water mark of any naturai body of water or 
issuing a permit for such construction pursuant to Article 51 of Presidential 
Decree No. 1067 (otherwise known as the Water Code): Provided, That 
construction for common usage wharves and shoreline protection shaii be 
permitted by the PAMB only after thorough EIA;
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Expansion of coconut plantation inside the RIWS; and
V. Unauthorized activities within multiple use zones.
SEC. 19. Composition of the Adjudication Board - the adjudication board shaii 
be composed of the following, appointed through the issuance of the special 
order (SO) to be supported by resolution of the PAMB:
for Sustainable
1. Governor of the Province of Palawan;
2. Executive Director of the Palawan Council 
Development or his/her designated representative;
3. Mayor of the Municipality of Narra; and
4. NGO representative.
SEC. 20. PENALTIES. -
a. A fine of not less than Two hundred thousand pesos (P200,000.00) but 
not more than One million (P1,000,000.00) or imprisonment from one (1) 
year but not more than six (6) years, or both, plus damages triple the 
value of the said resources, or both, shall be imposed upon any person 
who violates paragraphs (a) to (e) of Section 18 herein;
b. A fine of not less than Two hundred thousand pesos (P200,000.00) but 
not more than One million (P1,000,000.00) or imprisonment from one (1)
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year but not more than six (6) years, or both, shall be imposed upon any 
person who violates paragraphs (f) to (n) of Section 18 herein;
c. A fine of not less than One million pesos (P1,000,000.00) but not more 
than Five million (P5,000,000.00) or imprisonment from one (1) year but 
not more than twelve (12) years, or both, shall be imposed upon any 
person who violates paragraphs (o) to (v) of Section 18 herein;
d. A fine of Fifty thousand pesos (P50,000.00) daily shall be imposed on the 
owner of existing facilities within the RIWS under Section 18 of this Act, if 
the existence of the same and its future plans and operations will be 
detrimental to RIWS. For every continuing violation, or if the violation 
continues to be committed for thirty (30) days and upon reaching a total 
fine of Five hundred thousand pesos (P500,000.00), the RIWS-PAMB 
through the PASu and other deputized government entities, shall cause 
the cessation of operation and either forfeit in favor of the PAMO or 
demolish the facility at the cost of its owner. If the facility is government- 
owned, the agency in charge shall submit a plan for a substitute facility 
that complies with the RIWS standard and, within one (1) year, execute 
the approved RIWS management plan;
e. Administrative fines of not less than Fifty thousand pesos (P50,000.00), 
but not exceeding Five million pesos (P5,000,000.00), shall be imposed by 
the RIWS PAMB for the violation of any rule, regulation, or provision of 
any agreement reached with the PAMB: Provided, That if an area which 
has sustained damage from any activity conducted therein and requires 
rehabilitation or restoration as determined by the court, the offender shall 
be required to restore or pay compensation for such damages, which 
payment shall accrue to the IPAF;
On the basis of a court order, the RIWS PAMB shall cause the eviction of an 
offender from the RIWS: Provided, That in cases where the wildlife and 
biodiversity of RIWS are seriously threatened, the PAMB may order the 
immediate exit or departure of the offender from the RIWS. The PASu may call 
on other enforcement agencies to assist in executing the order to vacate.
An emergency occurs when there is a demonstrated impending threat to human 
life and biodiversity or to species found within the ecosystem of the protected 
area.
All minerals, timber or species collected or removed from the protected area, 
including all equipment, devices, conveyances, and firearms used in connection 
therewith, shall be forfeited in favor of the government, and any construction or 
improvement made thereon by the offender shall be subject to confiscation by 
the RIWS PAMO, subject to the application of due process.
The conveyances, vessels, equipment, paraphernalia, implements, gears, tools, 
and similar devices used in commission of the crime shall be dealt with in 
accordance with Part 4, Rule 12 (Custody and Disposition of Seized Items, 
Equipment, Paraphernalia, Conveyances, and Instruments) of Administrative 
Matter No. 09-6-8-sc (Rules of Procedures for Environmental Cases) issued by 
the Supreme Court. However, 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 RIWS PAMO for rehabilitation and release to ifs
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natural habitat, subject to existing regulations. Valuation of the damage shall 
take into account biodiversity and conservation considerations as well as 
aesthetic and scenic value. The valuation and assessment by the RIWS PAMO, in 
coordination with other concerned government agencies, shall be presumed 
regular, unless otherwise proven by preponderance of evidence.
If the offender is an association or corporation, the president or manager, which 
is proven to have participated in or have actual knowledge of any violation 
against the provisions of this Act shall be directly liable for the act of the 
employees and laborers: Provided, finally. That the RIWS PAMB may impose 
administrative fines and penalties consistent with this Act.
Any person who shall Include another or conspire to commit any of the acts 
prohibited in this Act, or force theory workers to commit any of the same, shall 
be liable as principal.
The penalties specified in this section shall be in addition to the penalties 
provided in RA No. 9072 or the National Caves and Cave Resources Management 
and Protection Act, RA No. 9147 or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and 
Protection Act, RA No. 8550, as amended by RA No. 10654 or "An Act to 
Prevent, Deter and Eliminate Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing" and 
other related laws.
The conviction of a public officer or officer of the law whether form the LGU or 
any national government agency for any violation of the provisions of this Act 
shall carry the accessory penalty of perpetual disqualification from public office.
SEC. 21. SPECIAL PROSECUTOR AND RETAINED COUNSEL. - Within thirty 
(30) days from the effectivity if this Act, the Department of Justice shall appoint 
a special prosecutor to whom all cases of violation of the laws and rules and 
regulations in the protected area shail be assigned. Such special prosecutor shall 
coordinate with the PAMB through the PASu in the performance of his/her duties 
and assist in the training of enforcement officers. The PAMB may retain the 
services of a counsel to prosecute and assist in the prosecution of cases under 
the direct supervision of the regular or special prosecutor. Said counsel shall also 
represent and defend the members of the PAMB, PASu, the staff, or any 
deputized individual and volunteer, against any legal action arising from the 
performance of their works and functions as provided in this Act.
SEC. 22. CITIZEN SUIT. - For purposes of enforcing the provisions of this Act 
or its implementing rules and regulations, any Filipino citizen, whether an 
individual or a corporation, in representation of others, including, minors, or 
generations yet unborn, may file an action to enforce rights and obligations in 
the proper courts/bodies against:
a) Any person who violates or fails to comply with the provisions of this Act, 
its implementing rules, and regulations; or
b) Those mandated to implement and enforce the provisions of this Act with 
respect to orders, rules and regulations issued inconsistent with this Act; 
and/or
c) Any public officer who willfully or grossly neglects the performance of an 
act specifically enjoined as a duty by this Act or its implementing rules and
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regulations; or abuses his authority in the performance of his duty; or in 
any manner improperly performs his duties under this Act or its 
implementing rules and regulations: Provided, however. That no suit can 
be filed until after a thirty (30)-day notice have been given to the public 
officer and the aileged violator concerned and no appropriate action has 
been taken thereon. The court shall exempt such action from the payment 
of fiiing fees, upon prima facie showing of the non-enforcement or 
violations complained of and exempt the piaintiff from the fiiing of an 
injunction bond for the issuance of preliminary injunction.
In the event that the compiainant/petitioner should prevail, the court shall award 
reasonable attorney's fees, moral damages and litigation costs as appropriate.
SEC. 23. STRATEGIC LAWSUIT AGAINST PUBLIC PARTICIPATION 
(SLAPP). - Any legal action filed to harass, vex, exert undue pressure or stifle 
any legal resources that any person, institution or government has taken or may 
take in the implementation of this Act, which includes among others the 
enforcement of environmental laws, protection of the environment or assertion 
of environmental rights shaii be treated as SLAPP. The court where the said iegal 
action has been fiied shouid immediateiy make a determination not exceeding 
thirty (30) days whether said legai action is a SLAPP. Upon determination 
thereof, evidence warranting the same, the court shaii dismiss the complaint. In 
addition, the court shall award damages attorney's fees and cost of suits under a 
counterciaim, if such has been fiied. The defense of SLAPP can aiso be raised 
even at the Prosecutor's Office.
This provision shaii also apply and benefit public officers who are sued for acts 
committed in their official capacity, there being no grave abuse of authority, and 
done in the course of enforcing this Act.
CHAPTER V
PROCEEDS, FEES AND APPROPRIATIONS
SEC. 24. RASA ISLAND WILDLIFE SANCTUARY PROTECTED AREA FUND.
- There is hereby estabiished a trust fund to be known as the Rasa Isiand 
Wildiife Sanctuary Protected Area Fund for purposes of financing projects of the 
RIWS, including but not iimited to monitoring and enforcement activities. 
Seventy five percent (75%) of the income generated from the operation of the 
RIWS or management of wiid flora and fauna in the RIWS shaii accrue to the 
fund. The remaining Twenty five percent (25%) shaii go to the Integrated 
Protected Area Fund as Wildlife Management Fund established under the ENIPAS 
Act.
Income shall be derived from visitor/tourist fees, fees from permitted saie and 
export of flora and fauna and either sources from RIWS, proceeds from the 
registration and lease of multiple-use areas, including tourism concessions, fees, 
proceeds, and contributions from industries and facilities directiy benefiting from 
the RIWS, and such other fees and income derived from the operations of the 
RIWS.
The fund may be augmented by grants, donations, endowment from various 
sources, domestic or foreign, for purposes related to their functions: Provided, 
That the fund shaii be deposited as a speciai account from the National Treasury
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and disbursements therefrom shall be made solely for the protection, 
maintenance, administration and management of the system, and duly approved 
projects endorsed by the RIWS PAMB in accordance with existing accounting and 
budgeting rules and regulations: Provided, further. That the fund shall not be 
used to cover personal services expenditures.
The LGUs shall continue to impose and collect all other fees not enumerated 
herein which they have traditionally collected, such as business permits, property 
tax and rentals of LGD facilities: Provided, That the LGU shall not impose 
property tax and issue tax declaration for areas or properties located in 
timberland areas. Furthermore, LGUs may charge add-ons to fees imposed by 
the RIWS PAMB: Provided, That such add-ons shall be determined based in the 
contribution of the LGUs in the maintenance and protection of the RIWS.
SEC. 25. APPROPRIATIONS. - 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. 26. REPORTING RESPONSIBILITY. - The PASu through the PAMB shall 
submit an annual accomplishment report to the Secretary of DENR on the 
activities undertaken by RIWS.
CHAPTER VI
MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS
SEC. 27. CONSTRUCTION AND SUPPLETORY APPLICATION OF 
EXISTING LAWS. - The provisions of this Act shall be construed liberally in 
favor of achieving biodiversity, conservation of the protected area and 
environmental protection and sustain its development. The provisions of RA No. 
7586, or the NIPAS Act of 1992 as amended by the RA No. 11038, existing 
forestry and other corresponding rules and regulations not inconsistent hereto 
shall have the suppletory effect in the implementation of this Act.
SEC. 28. TRANSITORY PROVISIONS. - In order to ensure sustainability, the 
DENR, PCSD and LGU shall henceforth cease to issue concessions, licenses, 
permits, clearances, compliance documents or any other instrument that allows 
exploitation of the resources within the RIWS.
SEC. 29. 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. 30. REPEALING CLAUSE. - All laws, decrees, executive orders, rules and 
proclamations inconsistent with any provisions of this Act shall be deemed 
repealed or modified accordingly.
SEC. 31. EFFECTIVITY CLAUSE. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days 
after its publication in the Official Gazette or in two (2) national newspapers of 
general circulation. It shall be translated in Filipino for local publication.
Approved,
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