MALACAANG

Manila
PRESIDENTIAL DECREE No. 1067 December 31, 1976
A DECREE INSTITUTING A WATER CODE, THEREBY REVISING AND CONSOLIDATING THE LAWS
GOVERNING THE OWNERSHIP, APPROPRIATION, UTILIZATION, EXPLOITATION, DEVELOPMENT,
CONSERVATION AND PROTECTION OF WATER RESOURCES
WHEREAS, Article XIV, Section 8 of the New Constitution of the Philippines provides, inter alia, that all waters of the
Philippines belong to the State;
WHEREAS, existing water legislations are piece-meal and inadequate to cope with increasing scarcity of water and
changing patterns of water use;
WHEREAS, there is a need for a Water Code based on rational concepts or integrated and multipurpose
management of water resources and sufficiently flexible to adequately meet future developments;
WHEREAS, water is vital to national development and it has become increasingly necessary for government to
intervene actively in improving the management of water resources;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, FERDINAND E. MARCOS, President of the Philippines, by virtue of the powers in me
vested by the Constitution, do hereby order and decree the enactment of the water Code of the Philippines of 1976,
as follows:
CHAPTER I
DECLARATION OF OBJECTIVES AND PRINCIPLES
Article 1. This Code shall be known as The Water Code of the Philippines.
Article 2. The objectives of this Code are:
(a) To establish the basic principles and framework relating to the appropriation, control and conservation of
water resources to achieve the optimum development and rational utilization of these resources;
(b) To define the extent of the rights and obligations of water users and owners including the protection and
regulation of such rights;
(c) To adopt a basic law governing the ownership, appropriation, utilization, exploitation, development,
conservation and protection of water resources and rights to land related thereto; and
(d) To identify the administrative agencies which will enforce this Code.
Article 3. The underlying principles of this code are:
(a) All waters belong to the State.
(b) All waters that belong to the State can not be the subject to acquisitive prescription.
(c) The State may allow the use or development of waters by administrative concession.
(d) The utilization, exploitation, development, conservation and protection of water resources shall be
subject to the control and regulation of the government through the National Water Resources Council,
hereinafter referred to as the Council.

(e) Preference in the use and development of waters shall consider current usages and be responsive to the
changing needs of the country.
Article 4. Waters, as used in this Code, refers to water under the grounds, water above the ground, water in the
atmosphere and the waters of the sea within the territorial jurisdiction of the Philippines.
CHAPTER II
OWNERSHIP OF WATERS
Article 5. The following belong to the State:
(a) Rivers and their natural beds;
(b) Continuous or intermittent waters of springs and brooks running in their natural beds and the beds
themselves;
(c) Natural lakes and lagoons;
(d) All other categories of surface waters such as water flowing over lands, water from rainfall whether
natural, or artificial, and water from agriculture runoff, seepage and drainage;
(e) Atmospheric water;
(f) Subterranean or ground waters; and,
(g) Seawater.
Article 6. The following waters found on private lands belong to the State:
(a) Continuous or intermittent waters rising on such lands;
(b) Lakes and lagoons naturally occuring on such lands;
(c) Rain water falling on such lands;
(d) Subterranean or ground waters; and,
(e) Water in swamps and marshes.
The owner of the land where the water is found may use the same for domestic purposes without securing a permit,
provided that such use shall be registered, when required by the Council. The Council, however, may regulate such
when there is wastage, or in times of emergency.
Article 7. Subject to the provisions of this Code, any person who captures or collects water by means of cisterns,
tanks, or pools shall have exclusive control over such water and the right to dispose of the same.
Article 8. Water legally appropriated shall be subject to the control of the appropriator from the moment it reaches
the appropriator's canal or aqueduct leading to the place where the water will be used or stored and, thereafter, so
long as it is being beneficially used for the purposes for which it was appropriated.
CHAPTER III
APPROPRIATION OF WATERS
Article 9. Waters may be appropriated and used in accordance with the provisions of this Code.

Appropriation of water, as used in this Code, is the acquisition of rights over the use of waters or the taking or
diverting of waters from a natural source in the manner and for any purpose allowed by law.
Article 10. Water may be appropriated for the following purposes:
(a) Domestic
(b) Municipal
(c) Irrigation
(d) Power generation
(e) Fisheries
(f) Livestock raising
(g) Industrial
(h) Recreational, and
(i) Other purposes
Use of water for domestic purposes is the utilization of water for drinking, washing, bathing, cooking or other
household needs, home gardens, and watering of lawns or domestic animals.
Use of water for municipal purposes is the utilization of water for supplying the water requirements of the
community.
Use of water for irrigation is the utilization of water for producing agricultural crops.
Use of water for power generation is the utilization of water for producing electrical or mechanical power.
Use of water for fisheries is the utilization of water for the propagation and culture of fish as a commercial enterprise.
Use of water for livestock raising is the utilization of water for large herds or flocks of animals raised as a
commercial enterprise.
Use of water for industrial purposes is the utilization of water in factories, industrial plants and mines, including the
use of water as an ingredient of a finished product.
Use of water for recreational purposes is the utilization of water for swimming pools, bath houses, boating, water
skiing, golf courses and other similar facilities in resorts and other places of recreation.
Article 11. The State, for reasons of public policy, may declare waters not previously appropriated, in whole or in
part, exempt from appropriation for any or all purposes and, thereupon, such waters may not be appropriated for
those purposes.
Article 12. Waters appropriated for a particular purpose may be applied for another purpose only upon prior
approval of the Council and on condition that the new use does not unduly prejudice the rights of other permittees,
or require an increase in the volume of water.
Article 13. Except as otherwise herein provided, no person, including government instrumentalities or governmentowned or controlled corporations, shall appropriate water without a water right, which shall be evidenced by a
document known as a water permit.

Water right is the privilege granted by the government to appropriate and use water.
Article 14. Subject to the provisions of this Code concerning the control, protection, conservation, and regulation of
the appropriation and use of waters, any person may appropriate or use natural bodies of water without securing a
water permit for any of the following:
(a) Appropriation of water by means of handcarried receptacles; and
(b) Bathing or washing, watering or dipping of domestic or farm animals, and navigation of watercrafts or
transportation of logs and other objects by flotation.
Article 15. Only citizens of the Philippines, of legal age, as well as juridical persons, who are duly qualified by law to
exploit and develop water resources, may apply for water permits.
Article 16. Any person who desires to obtain a water permit shall file an application with the Council who shall make
known said application to the public for any protests.
In determining whether to grant or deny an application, the Council shall consider the following: protests filed, if any;
prior permits granted; the availability of water; the water supply needed for beneficial use; possible adverse effects;
land-use economics; and other relevant factors.
Upon approval of an application, a water permit shall be issued and recorded.
Article 17. The right to the use of water is deemed acquired as of the date of filing of the application for a water
permit in case of approved permits, or as of the date of actual use in a case where no permit is required.
Article 18. All water permits granted shall be subject to conditions of beneficial use, adequate standards of design
and construction, and such other terms and conditions as may be imposed by the Council.
Such permits shall specify the maximum amount of water which may be diverted or withdrawn, the maximum rate of
diversion or withdrawal, the time or times during the year when water may be diverted or withdrawn, the points or
points of diversion or location of wells, the place of use, the purposes of which water may be used and such other
requirements the Council deems desirable.
Article 19. Water rights may be leaded or transferred in whole or in part to another person with prior approval of the
Council, after due notice and hearing.
Article 20. The measure and limit of appropriation of water shall be beneficial use.
Beneficial use of water is the utilization of water in the right amount during the period that the water is needed for
producing the benefits for which the water is appropriated.
Article 21. Standards of beneficial use shall be prescribed by the council for the appropriator of water for different
purposes and conditions, and the use of waters which are appropriated shall be measured and controlled in
accordance therewith.
Excepting for domestic use, every appropriator of water shall maintain water control and measuring devices, and
keep records of water withdrawal. When required by the Council, all appropriators of water shall furnish information
on water use.
Article 22. Between two or more appropriators of water from the same sources of supply, priority in time of
appropriation shall give the better right, except that in times of emergency the use of water for domestic and
municipal purposes shall have a better right over all other uses; Provided, the where water shortage is recurrent and
the appropriator for municipal use has a lower priority in time of appropriation, then it shall be his duty to find an
alternative source of supply in accordance with conditions prescribed by the Council.

Article 23. Priorities may be altered on grounds of greater beneficial use, multi-purpose use, and other similar
grounds after due notice and hearing, subject to payment of compensation is proper cases.
Article 24. A water right shall be exercised in such a manner that the rights of third persons or of other appropriators
are not prejudiced thereby.
Article 25. A holder of water permit may demand the establishment of easements necessary for the construction
and maintenance of the works and facilities needed for the beneficial use of the waters to be appropriated subject to
the requirements of just compensation and to the following conditions:
(a) That he is the owner, lessee, mortgagee or one having real right over the land upon which he proposes
to use water; and
(b) That the proposed easement is the most convenient and the least onerous to the servient estate.
Easements relating to the appropriation and use of waters may be modified by agreement of the contracting parties
provided the same is not contrary to law or prejudicial to third persons.
Article 26. Where water shortage is recurrent, the use of the water pursuant to a permit may, in the interest of
equitable distribution of the benefits among legal appropriators, reduce after due notice and hearing.
Article 27. Water users shall bear the diminution of any water supply due to natural causes or force majeure.
Article 28. Water permits shall continue to be valid as long as water is beneficially used; however, it maybe
suspended on the grounds of non-compliance with approved plans and specifications or schedules of water
distribution; use of water for a purpose other than that for which it was granted; non-payment of water charges;
wastage; failure to keep records of water diversion, when required; and violation of any term or condition of any
permit or rules and regulations promulgated by the Council.
Temporary permits may be issued for the appropriation and use of water for short periods under special
circumstances.
Article 29. Water permits may be revoked after due notice and hearing on grounds of non-use; gross violation of the
conditions imposed in the permit; unauthorized sale of water; willful failure or refusal to comply with rules and
regulations of any lawful order; pollution, public nuisance or acts detrimental to public health and safety; when the
appropriator is found to be disqualified under the law to exploit and develop natural resources of the Philippines;
when, in the case, of irrigation, the land is converted to non-agricultural purposes; and other similar grounds.
Article 30. All water permits are subject to modification or cancellation by the council, after due notice and hearing,
in favor of a project of greater beneficial use or for multi-purpose development, and a water permittee who suffers
thereby shall be duly compensated by the entity or person in whose favor the cancellation was made.
CHAPTER IV
UTILIZATION OF WATERS
Article 31. Preference in the development of water resources shall consider security of the State, multiple use,
beneficial effects, adverse effects and costs of development.
Article 32. The utilization of subterranean or ground water shall be coordinated with that of surface waters such as
rivers, streams, springs and lakes, so that a superior right in one not adversely affected by an inferior right in the
other.
For this purpose the Council shall promulgate rules and regulations and declare the existence of control areas for
the coordinated development, protection, and utilization of subterranean or ground water and surface waters.

Control area is an area of land where subterranean or ground water and surface water are so interrelated that
withdrawal and use in one similarly affects the other. The boundary of a control area may be altered from time to
time, as circumstances warrant.
Article 33. Water contained in open canals, aqueducts or reservoirs of private persons may be used by any person
for domestic purpose or for watering plants as long as the water is withdrawn by manual methods without checking
the stream or damaging the canal, aqueduct or reservoir; Provided, That this right may be restricted by the owner
should it result in loss or injury to him.
Article 34. A water permittee or appropriator may use any watercourse to convey water to another point in the
watercourse for the purpose stated in a permit and such water may be diverted or recaptured at that point by said
permittee in the same amount less allowance for normal losses in transit.
Article 35. Works for the storage, diversion, distribution and utilization of water resources shall contain adequate
provision for the prevention and control of diseases that may be induced or spread by such works when required by
the Council.
Article 36. When the reuse of waste water is feasible, it shall be limited as much as possible, to such uses other
than direct human consumption. No person or agency shall distribute such water for public consumption until it is
demonstrated that such consumption will not adversely affect the health and safety of the public.
Article 37. In the construction and operation of hydraulic works, due consideration shall be given to the preservation
of scenic places and historical relics and, in addition to the provisions of existing laws, no works that would required
the destruction or removal of such places or relics shall be undertaken without showing that the distribution or
removal is necessary and unaviodable.
Article 38. Authority for the construction of dams, bridges and other structures across of which may interfere with
the flow of navigable or flotable waterways shall first be secured from the Department of Public Works,
Transportation and Communications.
Article 39. Except in cases of emergency to save life or property, the construction or repair of the following works
shall be undertaken only after the plans and specifications therefor, as may be required by the Council, are
approved by the proper government agency; dams for the diversion or storage of water; structures for the use of
water power, installations for the utilization of subterranean or ground water and other structures for utilization of
water resources.
Article 40. No excavation for the purpose of emission of a hot spring or for the enlargement of the existing opening
thereof shall be made without prior permit.
Any person or agency who intends to develop a hot spring for human consumption must first obtain a permit from
the Department of Health.
Article 41. No person shall develop a stream, lake, or spring for recreational purposes without first securing a permit
from the Council.
Article 42. Unless-otherwise ordered by the President of the Philippines and only in time of national calamity or
emergency, no person shall induce or restrain rainfall by any method such as cloud seeding without a permit from
the proper government emergency.
Article 43. No person shall raise or lower the water level of a river stream, lake, lagoon, or marsh nor drain the
same without a permit.
Article 44. Drainage systems shall be so constructed that their outlets are rivers, lakes, the sea, natural bodies of
water, or such other water course as may be approved by the proper government agency.
Article 45. When a drainage channel is constructed by a number of persons for their common benefit, the cost of
construction and maintenance of the channel shall be borne by each in proportion to the benefits drived.

Article 46. When artificial means are employed to drain water from higher to lower land, the owner of the higher
land shall select the routes and methods of drainage that will cause the minimum damage to the lower lands,
subject to the requirements of just compensation.
Article 47. When the use, conveyance or storage of waters results in damage to another, the person responsible for
the damage shall pay compensation.
Article 48. When a water resources project interferes with the access of landowner to a portion of his property or
with the conveyance of irrigation or drainage water, the person or agency constructing the project shall bear the cost
of construction and maintenance of the bridges, flumes and other structures necessary for maintaining access,
irrigation, or drainage, in addition to paying compensation for land and incidental damages.
Article 49. Any person having an easement for an aqueduct may enter upon the servient land for the purpose of
cleaning, repairing or replacing the aqueduct or the removal of obstructions therefrom.
Article 50. Lower estates are obliged to receive the waters which naturally and without the intervention of man flow
from the higher estate, as well as the stone or earth which they carry with them.
The owner of the lower estate can not construct works which will impede this natural flow, unless he provides an
alternative method of drainage; neither can the owner of the higher estate make works which will increase this
natural flow.
Article 51. The banks of rivers and streams and the shores of the seas and lakes throughout their entire length and
within a zone of three (3) meters in urban areas, twenty (20) meters in agricultural areas and forty (40) meters in
forest areas, along their margins are subject to the easement of public use in the interest of recreation, navigation,
floatage, fishing and salvage. No person shall be allowed to stay in this zone longer than what is necessary for
recreation, navigation, floatage, fishing or salvage or to build structures of any kind.
Article 52. The establishment, extent, form, and conditions of easements of water not expressly determined by the
provisions of this Code shall be governed by the provisions of the Civil Code.
CHAPTER V
CONTROL OF WATERS
Article 53. To promote the best interest and the coordinated protection of flood plain lands, the Secretary of Public
Works, Transportation and Communications may declare flood control areas and promulgate guidelines for
governing flood plain management plans in these areas.
Article 54. In declared flood control areas, rules and regulations may be promulgated to prohibit or control activities
that may damage or cause deterioration or lakes and dikes, obstruct the flow of water, change the natural flow of the
river, increase flood losses or aggravate flood problems.
Article 55. The government may construct necessary flood control structures in declared flood control areas, and for
this purpose it shall have a legal easement as wide as may be needed along and adjacent to the river bank and
outside of the bed or channel of the river.
Article 56. River beds, sand bars and tidal flats may not be cultivated except upon prior permission from the
Secretary of the Department of Public Works, Transportation and Communication and such permission shall not be
granted where such cultivation obstructs the flow of water or increase flood levels so as to cause damage to other
areas.
Article 57. Any person may erect levees or revetments to protect his property from flood, encroachment by the river
or change in the course of the river, provided that such constructions does not cause damage to the property of
another.
Article 58. When a river or stream suddenly changes its course to traverse private lands, the owners of the affected
lands may not compel the government to restore the river to its former bed; nor can they restrain the government

from taking steps to revert the river or stream to its former course. The owners of the land thus affected are not
entitled to compensation for any damage sustained thereby. However, the former owners of the new bed shall be
the owners of the abandoned bed in proportion to the area lost by each.
The owners of the affected lands may undertake to return the river or stream to its old bed at their own expense;
Provided, That a permit therefor is secured from the Secretary of Public Works, Transportation and Communication
and work pertaining thereto are commenced within two years from the change in the course of the river or stream.
Article 59. Rivers, lakes and lagoons may, upon the recommendation of the Philippines Coast Guard, be declared
navigable either in whole or in part.
Article 60. The rafting of logs and other objects on rivers and lakes which are flotable may be controlled or
prohibited during designated season of the year with due regard to the needs of irrigation and domestic water
supply and other uses of water.
Article 61. The impounding of water in ponds or reservoirs may be prohibited by the Council upon consultation with
the Department of Health if it is dangerous to public health, or it may order that such pond or reservoir be drained if
such is necessary for the protection of public health.
Article 62. Waters of a stream may be stored in a reservoir by a permittee in such amount as will not prejudice the
right of any permittee downstream. Whoever operates the reservoir shall, when required, release water for minimum
stream flow.
All reservoir operations shall be subject to rules and regulations issued by the Council or any proper government
agency.
Article 63. The operator of a dam for the storage of water may be required to employ an engineer possessing
qualifications prescribed for the proper operations, maintenance and administration of the dam.
Article 64. The Council shall approve the manner, location, depth, and spacing in which borings for subterranean or
ground water may be made, determine the requirements for the registration of every boring or alteration to existing
borings as well as other control measures for the exploitation of subterranean or ground water resources, and in
coordination with the Professional Regulation Commission prescribe the qualifications of those who would drill such
borings.
No person shall drill a well without prior permission from the Council.
Article 65. Water from one river basin may be transferred to another river basin only with approval of the Council. In
considering any request for such transfer, the Council shall take into account the full costs of the transfer, the
benefits that would accrue to the basin of origin without the transfer, the benefits would accrue to the receiving basin
on account of the transfer, alternative schemes for supplying water to the receiving basin, and other relevant factors.
CHAPTER VI
CONSERVATION AND PROTECTION OF WATERS AND WATERSHEDS AND RELATED LAND RESOURCES
Article 66. After due notice and hearing when warranted by circumstances, minimum stream flows for rivers and
streams, and minimum water levels for lakes may be established by the Council under such conditions as may be
necessary for the protection of the environment, control of pollution, navigation, prevention of salt damage, and
general public use.
Article 67. Any watershed or any area of land adjacent to any surface water or overlying any ground water may
declared by the Department of Natural Resources as protected area Rules and regulations may be promulgated by
such Department to prohibit or control such activities by the owners or occupants thereof within the protected area
which may damage or cause the deterioration of the surface water or ground water or interfere with the
investigation, use, control, protection, management or administration of such waters.

Article 68. It shall be the duty of any person in control of a well to prevent the water from flowing on the surface of
the land, or into any surface water, or any porous stratum under neath the surface without being beneficially used.
Article 69. It shall be the duty of any person in control of a well containing water with minerals or other substances
injurious to man, animals, agriculture, and vegetation to prevent such waters from flowing on the surface of the land
or into any surface water or into any other aquifer or porous stratum.
Article 70. No person shall utilize an existing well or pond or spread waters for recharging substerranean or ground
water supplies without prior permission of the Council.
Article 71. To promote better water conservation and usage for irrigation purposes, the merger of irrigation
associations and the appropriation of waters by associations instead of by individuals shall be encouraged.
No water permit shall be granted to an individual when his water requirement can be supplied through an irrigation
association.
Article 72. In the consideration of a proposed water resource project, due regard shall be given to ecological
changes resulting from the construction of the project in order to balance the needs of development and the
protection of the environment.
Article 73. The conservation of fish and wildlife shall receive proper consideration and shall be coordinated with
other features of water resources development programs to insure that fish and wildlife values receive equal
attention with other project purposes.
Article 74. Swamps and marshes which are owned by the State and which primary value for waterfowl propagation
or other wildlife purposes may be reserved and protected from drainage operation and development.
Article 75. No person shall, without prior permission from the National Pollution Control Commission, build any
works that may produce dangerous or noxious substances or perform any act which may result in the introduction of
sewage, industrial waste, or any pollutant into any source of water supply.
Water pollution is the impairment of the quality of water beyond a certain standard. This standard may vary
according to the use of the water and shall be set by the National Pollution Control Commission.
Article 76. The establishment of cemeteries and waste disposal areas that may affect the source of a water supply
or a reservoir for domestic or municipal use shall be subject to the rules and regulations promulgated by the
Department of Health.
Article 77. Tailings from mining operations and sediments from placer mining shall not be dumped into rivers and
waterways without prior permission from the Council upon recommendation by the National Pollution Control
Commission.
Article 78. The application of agricultural fertilizers and pesticides may be prohibited or regulated by the National
Pollution Control Commission in the areas where such application may cause pollution of a source of water supply.
CHAPTER VII
ADMINISTRATION OF WATERS AND ENFORCEMENT OF THE PROVISIONS OF THIS CODE
Article 79. The Administration and enforcement of the provisions of this Code, including the granting of permits and
the imposition of penalties for administrative violations hereof, are hereby vested in the Council, and except in
regard to those functions which under this Code are specifically conferred upon other agencies of the government,
the Council is hereby empowered to make all decisions and determinations provided for in this Code.
Article 80. The Council may deputize any official or agency of the government to perform any of its specific
functions or activities.

Article 81. The Council shall provide a continuing program for data collection, research and manpower development
needed for the appropriation, utilization, exploitation, conservation, and protection of the water resources of the
country.
Article 82. In the implementation of the provisions of this code, the Council shall promulgate the necessary rules
and regulations which may provide for penalties consisting of a fine not exceeding One Thousand Pesos
(P1,000.00) and/or suspension or revocation of the water permit or other right to the use of water. Violations of such
rules and regulations may be administratively dealt with by the Council.
Such rules and regulations prescribed by any government agency that pertain to the utilization, exploitation,
development, control, conservation, or protection of water resources shall, if the Council so requires, be subject to
its approval.
Article 83. The Council is hereby authorized to impose and collect reasonable fees or charges for water resources
development from water appropriators, except when it is for purely domestic purposes.
Article 84. The Council and other agencies authorized to enforce this Code are empowered to enter upon private
lands, with previous notice to the owner, for the purpose of conducting surveys and hydrologic investigations, and to
perform such other acts as are necessary in carrying out their functions including the power to exercise the right of
eminent domain.
Article 85. No program or project involving the appropriation, utilization, exploitation, development, control,
conservation, or protection of water resources may be undertaken without prior approval of the Council, except
those which the Council may, in its discretion, exempt.
The Council may require consultation with the public prior to the implementation of certain water resources
development projects.
Article 86. When plans and specifications of a hydraulic structure are submitted for approval, the government
agency whose functions embrace the type of project for which the structure is intended, shall review the plans and
specifications and recommended to the Council proper action thereon and the latter shall approve the same only
when they are inconformity with the requirements of this Code and the rules and regulations promulgated by the
Council. Notwithstanding such approval, neither the engineer who drew up the plans and specifications of the
hydraulic structure, nor the constructor who built it, shall be relieved of his liability for damages in case of failure
thereof by reason of defect in plans and specifications, or failure due to defect in construction, within ten (10) years
from the completion of the structure.
Any action recover such damages must be brought within five (5) years following such failure.
Article 87. The Council or its duly authorized representatives, in the exercise of its power to investigate and decide
cases brought to its cognizance, shall have the power to administer oaths, compel the attendance of witnesses by
subpoena and the production of relevant documents by subpoena duces tecum.
Non-compliance of violation of such orders or subpoena and subpoena duces tecum shall be punished in the same
manner as indirect contempt of an inferior court upon application by the aggrieved party with the proper Court of
First Instance in accordance with the provisions of Rules 71 of the Rules of the Court.
Article 88. The Council shall have original jurisdiction over all disputes to relating to appropriation, utilization,
exploitation, development, control, conservation and protection of waters within the meaning and context of the
provisions of this Code.
The decisions of the Council on water rights controversies shall be immediately executory and the enforcement
thereof may be suspended only when a bond, in a amount fixed by the Council to answer for damages occasioned
by the suspension or stay of execution, shall have been filed by the appealing party, unless the suspension is virtue
of an order of a competent court.
All dispute shall be decided within sixty (60) days after the parties submit the same for decision or resolution.

The Council shall have the power to issue writs of execution and enforce its decisions with the assistance of local or
national police agencies.
Article 89. The decisions of the Council on water rights controversies may be appealed to the Court of First
Instance of the province where the subject matter of the controversy is situated within fifteen (15) days from the date
the party appealing receives a copy of the decision, on any of the following grounds; (1) grave abuse of discretion;
(2) question of law; and (3) questions of fact and law.
CHAPTER VIII
PENAL PROVISIONS
Article 90. The following acts shall be penalized by suspension or revocation of the violator's water permit or other
right to the use of water and/or a fine of not exceeding One Thousand Pesos (P1,000.00), in the discretion of the
Council:
(a)Appropriation of subterranean or ground water for domestic use by an overlying landowner without
registration required by the Council.
(b) Non-observance of any standard of beneficial use of water.
(c) Failure of the appropriator to keep a record of water withdrawal, when required.
(d) Failure to comply with any of the terms or conditions in a water permit or a water rights grant.
(e) Unauthorized use of water for a purpose other than that for which a right or permit was granted.
(f) Construction or repair of any hydraulic work or structure without duly approved plans and specifications,
when required.
(g) Failure to install a regulating and measuring device for the control of the volume of water appropriated,
when required.
(h) Unauthorized sale, lease, or transfer of water and/or water rights.
(i) Failure to provide adequate facilities to prevent or control diseases when required by the Council in the
construction of any work for the storage, diversion, distribution and utilization of water.
(j) Drilling of a well without permission of the Council.
(k) Utilization of an existing well or ponding or spreading of water for recharging subterranean or ground
water supplies without permission of the Council.
(l) Violation of or non-compliance with any order, rules, or regulations of the Council.
(m) Illegal taking or diversion of water in an open canal, aqueduct or reservoir.
(n) Malicious destruction of hydraulic works or structure valued at not exceeding P5,000.00.
Article 91. A. A fine of not exceeding Three Thousand Pesos (P3,000.00) or imprisonment for not more than three
(3) years, or both such fine and imprisonment, in the discretion of the Court, shall be imposed upon any person who
commits any of the following acts:
1. Appropriation of water without a water permit, unless such person is expressly exempted from
securing a permit by the provisions of this Code.
2. Unauthorized obstruction of an irrigation canal.

3. Cultivation of a river bed, sand bar or tidal flat without permission.

4. Malicious destruction of hydraulic works or structure valued at not exceeding Twenty-Five
Thousand Pesos (P25,000.00).
B. A fine exceeding Three Thousand Pesos P3,000.00) but not more than Six Thousand Pesos P6,000.00)
or imprisonment exceeding three (3) years but not more than six (6) years, or both such fine and
imprisonment in the discretion of the Court, shall be imposed on any person who commits any of the
following acts:
1. Distribution for public consumption of water which adversely affects the health and safety of the
public.
2. Excavation or enlargement of the opening of a hot spring without permission.
3. Unauthorized obstruction of a river or waterway, or occupancy of a river bank or seashore without
permission.
4. Establishment of a cemetery or a waste disposal area near a source of water supply or reservoir
for domestic municipal use without permission.
5. Constructing, without prior permission of the government agency concerned, works that produce
dangerous or noxious substances, or performing acts that result in the introduction of sewage,
industrial waste, or any substance that pollutes a source of water supply.
6. Dumping mine tailings and sediments into rivers of waterways without permission.
7. Malicious destruction of hydraulic works or structure valued more than Twenty-Five Thousand
Pesos (P25,000.00) but at not exceeding One Hundred Thousand Peso (100,000.00).
C. A fine exceeding Six Thousand Pesos (P6,000.00) but not more than Ten Thousand Pesos (P10,000.00)
or imprisonment exceeding six (6) years but not more than twelve (12) years, or both such fine and
imprisonment, in the discretion of the Court, shall be imposed upon any person who commits any of the
following acts:
1. Misrepresentation of citizenship in order to qualify for water permit.
2. Malicious destruction of a hydraulic works or structure, valued at more than One Hundred
Thousand Pesos (P100,000.00).
Article 92. If the offense is committed by a corporation, trust, firm, partnership, association or any other juridical
person, the penalty shall be imposed upon the President, General Manager, and other guilty officer or officers of
such corporation, trust firm, partnership, association or entity, without prejudice to the filing of a civil action against
said juridical person. If the offender is an alien, he shall be deported after serving his sentence, without further
proceedings.
After final judgment of conviction, the Court upon petition of the prosecution attorney in the same proceedings, and
after due hearing, may, when the public interest so requires, order suspension of or dissolution of such corporation,
trust, firm, partnership, association or juridical person.
Article 93. All actions for offenses punishable under Article 91 of this Code shall be brought before the proper court.
Article 94. Actions for offenses punishable under this Code by a fine of not more than Three Thousand Pesos
(P3,000.00) or by an imprisonment of not more than three (3) years, or both such fine and imprisonment, shall
prescribe in five (5) years; those punishable by a fine exceeding Three Thousand Pesos (P3,000.00) but not more
than Six Thousand Pesos (P6,000.00) or an imprisonment exceeding three (3) years but not more than six (6)

years, or both such fine and imprisonment, shall prescribe in seven (7) years; and those punishable by a fine
exceeding Six Thousand Pesos (P6,000.00) but not more than Ten Thousand Pesos (P10,000.00) or an
imprisonment exceeding six (6) years but not more than twelve (12) years, or both such fine and imprisonment, shall
prescribe in ten (10) years.
CHAPTER IX
TRANSITORY AND FINAL PROVISIONS
Article 95. Within two (2) years from the promulgation of this Code, all claims for a right to use water existing on or
before December 31, 1974 shall be registered with the Council which shall confirm said rights in accordance with
the provisions of this Code, and shall set their respective priorities.
When priority in time of appropriation from a certain source of supply cannot be determined, the order of preference
in the use of the waters shall be as follows:
(a) Domestic and municipal use
(b) Irrigation
(c) Power generation
(d) Fisheries
(e) Livestock raising
(f) Industrial use, and
(g) Other uses.
Any claim not registered within said period shall be considered waived and the use of the water deemed
abandoned, and the water shall thereupon be available for disposition as unappropriated waters in accordance with
the provisions of this Code.
Article 96. No vested or acquired right to the use of water can arise from acts or omissions which are against the
law or which infringe upon the rights of others.
Article 97. Acts and contract under the regime of old laws, if they are valid in accordance therewith, shall be
respected, subject to the limitations established in this Code. Any modification or extension of these acts and
contracts after the promulgation of this Code, shall be subject to the provisions hereof.
Article 98. Interim rules and regulations promulgated by the Council shall continue to have binding force and effect,
when not in conflict with the provisions of this Code.
Article 99. If any provision or part of this Code, or the application thereof to any person or circumstance, is declared
unconstitutional or invalid for any reason, the other provisions or parts therein shall not be affected.
Article 100. The following laws, parts and/or provisions of laws are hereby repealed:
(a) The provisions of the Spanish Law on Waters of August 3, 1866, the Civil Code of Spain of 1889 and the
Civil Code of the Philippines (R.A. 386) on ownership of waters, easements relating to waters, use of public
waters and acquisitive prescription on the use of waters, which are inconsistent with the provisions of this
Code;
(b) The provisions of R.A. 6395, otherwise known as the Revised Charter of National Power Corporation,
particularly section 3, paragraph (f), and section 12, insofar as they relate to the appropriation of waters and
the grant thereof;

(c) The provisions of Act No. 2152, as amended, otherwise known as the Irrigation Act, section 3,
paragraphs (k) and (m) of P.D. No. 813, R.A. 2056; Section 90, C.A. 137; and,
(d) All Decree, Laws, Acts, parts of Acts, rules of Court, executive orders, and administrative regulations
which are contrary to or inconsistent with the provisions of this Code.
Article 101. This Code shall take effect upon its promulgation.
Done in the City of Manila, this 31st day of December, Nineteen Hundred and Seventy-Six

Republic of the Philippines

Congress of the Philippines
Metro Manila
Tenth Congress

Republic Act No. 8550

February 25, 1998

AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE DEVELOPMENT, MANAGEMENT AND CONSERVATION OF THE FISHERIES
AND AQUATIC RESOURCES, INTEGRATING ALL LAWS PERTINENT THERETO, AND FOR OTHER
PURPOSES
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress assembled::
Section 1. Title. - This Act shall be known as "The Philippine Fisheries Code of 1998."
CHAPTER I
Declaration of Policy and Definitions
Section 2. Declaration of Policy. - It is hereby declared the policy of the State:
(a) to achieve food security as the overriding consideration in the utilization, management, development,
conservation and protection of fishery resources in order to provide the food needs of the population. A
flexible policy towards the attainment of food security shall be adopted in response to changes in
demographic trends for fish, emerging trends in the trade of fish and other aquatic products in domestic and
international markets, and the law of supply and demand;
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(b) to limit access to the fishery and aquatic resources of the Philippines for the exclusive use and
enjoyment of Filipino citizens;
(c) to ensure the rational and sustainable development, management and conservation of the fishery and
aquatic resources in Philippine waters including the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and in the adjacent
high seas, consistent with the primordial objective of maintaining a sound ecological balance, protecting and
enhancing the quality of the environment;
(d) to protect the rights of fisherfolk, especially of the local communities with priority to municipal fisherfolk, in
the preferential use of the municipal waters. Such preferential use, shall be based on, but not limited to,
Maximum Sustainable Yield (MSY) or Total Allowable Catch (TAC) on the basis of resources and ecological
conditions, and shall be consistent with our commitments under international treaties and agreements;
(e) to provide support to the fishery sector, primarily to the municipal fisherfolk, including women and youth
sectors, through appropriate technology and research, adequate financial, production, construction of postharvest facilities, marketing assistance, and other services. The protection of municipal fisherfolk against
foreign intrusion shall extend to offshore fishing grounds. Fishworkers shall receive a just share for their
labor in the utilization of marine and fishery resources;
(f) to manage fishery and aquatic resources, in a manner consistent with the concept of an integrated
coastal area management in specific natural fishery management areas, appropriately supported by
research, technical services and guidance provided by the State; and
(g) to grant the private sector the privilege to utilize fishery resources under the basic concept that the
grantee, licensee or permittee thereof shall not only be a privileged beneficiary of the State but also active

participant and partner of the Government in the sustainable development, management, conservation and
protection of the fishery and aquatic resources of the country.
The state shall ensure the attainment of the following objectives of the fishery sector:
1. Conservation, protection and sustained management of the country's fishery and aquatic resources;
2. Poverty alleviation and the provision of supplementary livelihood among municipal fisherfolk;
3. Improvement of productivity of aquaculture within ecological limits;
4. Optimal utilization of offshore and deep-sea resources; and
5. Upgrading of post-harvest technology.
Section 3. Application of its Provisions. - The provisions of this Code shall be enforced in:
(a) all Philippine waters including other waters over which the Philippines has sovereignty and jurisdiction,
and the country's 200-nautical mile Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and continental shelf;
(b) all aquatic and fishery resources whether inland, coastal or offshore fishing areas, including but not
limited to fishponds, fishpens/cages; and
(c) all lands devoted to aquaculture, or businesses and activities relating to fishery, whether private or public
lands.
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Section 4. Definition of Terms. - As used in this Code, the following terms and phrases shall mean as follows:
1. Ancillary Industries - firms or companies related to the supply, construction and maintenance of fishing
vessels, gears, nets and other fishing paraphernalia; fishery machine shops; and other facilities such as
hatcheries, nurseries, feed plants, cold storage and refrigeration, processing plants and other pre-harvest
and post-harvest facilities.
2. Appropriate Fishing Technology - adaptable technology, both in fishing and ancillary industries, that is
ecologically sound, locally source-based and labor intensive.
3. Aquaculture - fishery operations involving all forms of raising and culturing fish and other fishery species
in fresh, brackish and marine water areas.
4. Aquatic Pollution - the introduction by human or machine, directly or indirectly, of substances or energy to
the aquatic environment which result or is likely to result in such deleterious effects as to harm living and
non-living aquatic resources, pose potential and/or real hazard to human health, hindrance to aquatic
activities such as fishing and navigation, including dumping/disposal of waste and other marine litters,
discharge of petroleum or residual products of petroleum or carbonaceous materials/substances, and other,
radioactive, noxious or harmful liquid, gaseous or solid substances, from any water, land or air transport or
other human-made structure. Deforestation, unsound agricultural practices such as the use of banned
chemicals and excessive use of chemicals, intensive use of artificial fish feed, and wetland conversion,
which cause similar hazards and deleterious effects shall also constitute aquatic pollution.
5. Aquatic Resources - includes fish, all other aquatic flora and fauna and other living resources of the
aquatic environment, including, but not limited to, salt and corals.
6. Artificial Reefs - any structure of natural or man-made materials placed on a body of water to serve as
shelter and habitat, source of food, breeding areas for fishery species and shoreline protection.

7. Catch Ceilings - refer to the annual catch limits allowed to be taken, gathered or harvested from any
fishing area in consideration of the need to prevent overfishing and harmful depletion of breeding stocks of
aquatic organisms.
8. Closed Season - the period during which the taking of specified fishery species by a specified fishing gear
is prohibited in a specified area or areas in Philippine waters.
9. Coastal Area/Zone - is a band of dry land and adjacent ocean space (water and submerged land. in which
terrestrial processes and uses directly affect oceanic processes and uses, and vice versa; its geographic
extent may include areas within a landmark limit of one (1. kilometer from the shoreline at high tide to
include mangrove swamps, brackish water ponds, nipa swamps, estuarine rivers, sandy beaches and other
areas within a seaward limit of 200 meters isobath to include coral reefs, algal flats, seagrass beds and
other soft-bottom areas.
10. Commercial Fishing - the taking of fishery species by passive or active gear for trade, business & profit
beyond subsistence or sports fishing, to be further classified as:
(1) Small scale commercial fishing - fishing with passive or active gear utilizing fishing vessels of 3.1
gross tons (GT) up to twenty (20) GT;
(2) Medium scale commercial fishing - fishing utilizing active gears and vessels of 20.1 GT up to one
hundred fifty (150) GT; and
(3) Large commercial fishing - fishing utilizing active gears and vessels of more than one hundred
fifty (150) GT.
11. Commercial Scale - a scheme of producing a minimum harvest per hectare per year of milkfish or other
species including those raised in pens, cages, and tanks to be determined by the Department in consultation
with the concerned sectors;
12. Coral - the hard calcareous substance made up of the skeleton of marine coelenterate polyps which
include reefs, shelves and atolls or any of the marine coelenterate animals living in colonies where their
skeletons form a stony mass. They include: (a. skeletons of anthozoan coelenterates characterized as
having a rigid axis of compact calcareous or horny spicules, belonging to the genus corallium as
represented by the red, pink, and white corals which are considered precious corals; (b. skeletons of
anthozoan coelenterates characterized by thorny, horny axis such as the antipatharians represented by the
black corals which are considered semi-precious corals; and (c. ordinary corals which are any kind of corals
that are not precious nor semi-precious.
13. Coral Reef - a natural aggregation of coral skeleton, with or without living coral polyps, occurring in
intertidal and subtidal marine waters.
14. Demarcated Areas - boundaries defined by markers and assigned exclusively to specific individuals or
organizations for certain specified and limited uses such as:
(a) Aquaculture, sea ranching and sea farming;
(b) Fish aggregating devices;
(c) Fixed and passive fishing gears; and
(d) Fry and fingerlings gathering.
15. Department - shall mean the Department of Agriculture.

16. Electrofishing - the use of electricity generated by batteries, electric generators and other source of
electric power to kill, stupefy, disable or render unconscious fishery species, whether or not the same are
subsequently recovered.
17. Endangered Rare and/or Threatened Species - aquatic plants, animals, including some varieties of
corals and sea shells in danger of extinction as provided for in existing fishery laws, rules and regulations or
in the Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources
(DENR. and in the Convention on the International Trade of Endangered Species of Flora and Fauna
(CITES).
18. Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ. - an area beyond and adjacent to the territorial sea which shall not
extend beyond 200 nautical miles from the baselines as defined under existing laws.
19. FARMCs - the Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Councils.
20. Farm-to-Market Roads - shall include roads linking the fisheries production sites, coastal landing points
and other post-harvest facilities to major market and arterial roads and highways.
21. Fine Mesh Net - net with mesh size of less than three centimeters (3 cm.. measured between two (2.
opposite knots of a full mesh when stretched or as otherwise determined by the appropriate government
agency.
22. Fish and Fishery/Aquatic Products - include not only finfish but also mollusks, crustaceans,
echinoderms, marine mammals, and all other species of aquatic flora and fauna and all other products of
aquatic living resources in any form.
23. Fish Cage - refers to an enclosure which is either stationary or floating made up of nets or screens sewn
or fastened together and installed in the water with opening at the surface or covered and held in a place by
wooden/bamboo posts or various types of anchors and floats.
24. Fish Corral or "Baklad" - a stationary weir or trap devised to intercept and capture fish consisting of rows
of bamboo stakes, plastic nets and other materials fenced with split blood mattings or wire mattings with one
or more enclosures, usually with easy entrance but difficult exit, and with or without leaders to direct the fish
to the catching chambers, purse or bags.
25. Fish fingerlings - a stage in the life cycle of the fish measuring to about 6-13 cm. depending on the
species.
26. Fish fry - a stage at which a fish has just been hatched usually with sizes from 1-2.5 cm.
27. Fish pen - an artificial enclosure constructed within a body of water for culturing fish and fishery/aquatic
resources made up of poles closely arranged in an enclosure with wooden materials, screen or nylon netting
to prevent escape of fish.
28. Fisherfolk - people directly or personally and physically engaged in taking and/or culturing and
processing fishery and/or aquatic resources.
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29. Fisherfolk Cooperative - a duly registered association of fisherfolk with a common bond of interest, who
have voluntarily joined together to achieve a lawful common social or economic end, making equitable
contribution to the capital requirement and accepting a fair share of the risks and benefits of the
undertakings in accordance with universally accepted cooperative principles.
30. Fisherfolk Organization - an organized group, association, federation, alliance or an institution of
fisherfolk which has at least fifteen (15. members, a set of officers, a constitution and by-laws, an
organizational structure and a program of action.

31. Fisheries - refers to all activities relating to the act or business of fishing, culturing, preserving,
processing, marketing, developing, conserving and managing aquatic resources and the fishery areas,
including the privilege to fish or take aquatic resource thereof.
32. Fish Pond - a land-based facility enclosed with earthen or stone material to impound water for growing
fish.
33. Fishing Boat/Gear License - a permit to operate specific types of fishing boat/gear for specific duration in
areas beyond municipal waters for demersal or pelagic fishery resources.
34. Fishery Management Areas - a bay, gulf, lake or any other fishery area which may be delineated for
fishery resource management purposes.
35. Fishery Operator - one who owns and provides the means including land, labor, capital, fishing gears
and vessels, but does not personally engage in fishery.
36. Fishery Refuge and Sanctuaries - a designated area where fishing or other forms of activities which may
damage the ecosystem of the area is prohibited and human access may be restricted.
37. Fishery Reserve - a designated area where activities are regulated and set aside for educational and
research purposes.
38. Fishery Species - all aquatic flora and fauna including, but not restricted to, fish, algae, coelenterates,
mollusks, crustaceans, echinoderms and cetaceans.
39. Fishing - the taking of fishery species from their wild state of habitat, with or without the use of fishing
vessels.
40. Fishing gear - any instrument or device and its accessories utilized in taking fish and other fishery
species.
(a) Active fishing gear - is a fishing device characterized by gear movements, and/or the pursuit of
the target species by towing, lifting, and pushing the gears, surrounding, covering, dredging,
pumping and scaring the target species to impoundments; such as, but not limited to, trawl, purse
seines, Danish seines, bag nets, paaling, drift gill net and tuna longline.
(b) Passive fishing gear - is characterized by the absence of gear movements and/or the pursuit of
the target species; such as, but not limited to, hook and line, fishpots, traps and gill nets across the
path of the fish.
41. Fishing vessel - any boat, ship or other watercraft equipped to be used for taking of fishery species or
aiding or assisting one (1. or more vessels in the performance of any activity relating to fishing, including, but
not limited to, preservation, supply, storage, refrigeration, transportation and/or processing.
42. Fishing with Explosives - the use of the dynamite, other explosives or other chemical compounds that
contain combustible elements or ingredients which upon ignition by friction, concussion, percussion or
detonation of all or parts of the compound, will kill, stupefy, disable or render unconscious any fishery
species. It also refers to the use of any other substance and/or device which causes an explosion that is
capable of producing the said harmful effects on any fishery species and aquatic resources and capable of
damaging and altering the natural habitat.
43. Fishing with Noxious or Poisonous Substances - the use of any substance, plant extracts or juice
thereof, sodium cyanide and/or cyanide compounds or other chemicals either in a raw or processed form,
harmful or harmless to human beings, which will kill, stupefy, disable or render unconscious any fishery
species and aquatic resources and capable of damaging and altering the natural habitat.

44. Fishworker - a person regularly or not regularly employed in commercial fishing and related industries,
whose income is either in wage, profit-sharing or stratified sharing basis, including those working in fish
pens, fish cages, fish corrals/traps, fishponds, prawn farms, sea farms, salt beds, fish ports, fishing boat or
trawlers, or fish processing and/or packing plants. Excluded from this category are administrators, security
guards and overseers.
45. Food Security - refers to any plan, policy or strategy aimed at ensuring adequate supplies of appropriate
food at affordable prices. Food security may be achieved through self-sufficiency (i.e. ensuring adequate
food supplies from domestic production), through self-reliance (i.e. ensuring adequate food supplies through
a combination of domestic production and importation), or through pure importation.
46. Foreshore Land - a string of land margining a body of water; the part of a seashore between the lowwater line usually at the seaward margin of a low tide terrace and the upper limit of wave wash at high tide
usually marked by a beach scarp or berm.
47. Fully-developed Fishpond Area - a clean leveled area enclosed by dikes, at least one foot higher than
the highest floodwater level in the locality and strong enough to resist pressure at the highest flood tide;
consists of at least a nursery pond, a transition pond, a rearing pond or a combination of any or all said
classes of ponds, and a functional water control system and producing in a commercial scale.
48. Gross Tonnage - includes the underdeck tonnage, permanently enclosed spaces above the tonnage
deck, except for certain exemptions. In broad terms, all the vessel's 'closed-in' spaces expressed in volume
terms on the bases of one hundred cubic feet (that equals one gross ton).
49. Inland Fishery - the freshwater fishery and brackishwater fishponds.
50. Lake - an inland body of water, an expanded part of a river, a reservoir formed by a dam, or a lake basin
intermittently or formerly covered by water.
51. Limited Access - a fishery policy by which a system of equitable resource and allocation is established
by law through fishery rights granting and licensing procedure as provided by this Code.
52. Mangroves - a community of intertidal plants including all species of trees, shrubs, vines and herbs
found on coasts, swamps, or border of swamps.
53. Maximum Sustainable Yield (MSY. - is the largest average quantity of fish that can be harvested from a
fish stocks/resource within a period of time (e.g. one year. on a sustainable basis under existing
environmental conditions.
54. Migratory species - refers to any fishery species which in the course of their life could travel from
freshwater to marine water or vice versa, or any marine species which travel over great distances in waters
of the ocean as part of their behavioral adaptation for survival and speciation:
(a) Anadromous species - marine fishes which migrate to freshwater areas to spawn;
(b) Catadromous species - freshwater fishes which migrate to marine areas to spawn.
55. Monitoring, control and surveillance (a) Monitoring - the requirement of continuously observing: (1) fishing effort which can be expressed
by the number of days or hours of fishing, number of fishing gears and number of fisherfolk; (2)
characteristics of fishery resources; and (3) resource yields (catch);
(b) Control - the regulatory conditions (legal framework) under which the exploitation, utilization and
disposition of the resources may be conducted; and

(c) Surveillance - the degree and types of observations required to maintain compliance with
regulations.
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56. Municipal fisherfolk - persons who are directly or indirectly engaged in municipal fishing and other
related fishing activities.
57. Municipal fishing - refers to fishing within municipal waters using fishing vessels of three (3. gross tons or
less, or fishing not requiring the use of fishing vessels.
58. Municipal waters - include not only streams, lakes, inland bodies of water and tidal waters within the
municipality which are not included within the protected areas as defined under Republic Act No. 7586 (The
NIPAS Law), public forest, timber lands, forest reserves or fishery reserves, but also marine waters included
between two (2. lines drawn perpendicular to the general coastline from points where the boundary lines of
the municipality touch the sea at low tide and a third line parallel with the general coastline including offshore
islands and fifteen (15. kilometers from such coastline. Where two (2. municipalities are so situated on
opposite shores that there is less than thirty (30. kilometers of marine waters between them, the third line
shall be equally distant from opposite shore of the respective municipalities.
59. Non-governmental organization (NGO. - an agency, institution, a foundation or a group of persons
whose purpose is to assist peoples organizations/associations in various ways including, but not limited to,
organizing, education, training, research and/or resource accessing.
60. Payao - a fish aggregating device consisting of a loating raft anchored by a weighted line with
suspended materials such as palm fronds to attract pelagic and schooling species common in deep waters.
61. Pearl Farm Lease - public waters leased for the purpose of producing cultured pearls.
62. People's Organization - a bona fide association of citizens with demonstrated capacity to promote the
public interest and with identifiable leadership, membership and structure. Its members belong to a sector/s
who voluntarily band themselves together to work for and by themselves for their own upliftment,
development and greater good.
63. Person - natural or juridical entities such as individuals, associations, partnership, cooperatives or
corporations.
64. Philippine waters - include all bodies of water within the Philippine territory such as lakes, rivers,
streams, creeks, brooks, ponds, swamps, lagoons, gulfs, bays and seas and other bodies of water now
existing or which may hereafter exist in the provinces, cities, municipalities, and barangays and the waters
around, between and connecting the islands of the archipelago regardless of their breadth and dimensions,
the territorial sea, the sea beds, the insular shelves, and all other waters over which the Philippines has
sovereignty and jurisdiction including the 200-nautical miles Exclusive Economic Zone and the continental
shelf.
65. Post-harvest facilities - these facilities include, but are not limited to, fishport, fishlanding, ice plants and
cold storages, fish processing plants.
66. Purse Seine - a form of encircling net having a line at the bottom passing through rings attached to the
net, which can be drawn or pursed. In general, the net is set from a boat or pair of boats around the school
of fish. The bottom of the net is pulled closed with the purse line. The net is then pulled aboard the fishing
boat or boats until the fish are concentrated in the bunt or fish bag.
67. Resource Rent - the difference between the value of the products produced from harvesting a publicly
owned resource less the cost of producing it, where cost includes the normal return to capital and normal
return to labor.

68. Sea farming - the stocking of natural or hatchery-produced marine plants or animals, under controlled
conditions, for purposes of rearing and harvesting, but not limited to commercially-important fishes, mollusks
(such as pearl and giant clam culture), including seaweeds and seagrasses.
69. Sea ranching - the release of the young of fishery species reared in hatcheries and nurseries into natural
bodies of water for subsequent harvest at maturity or the manipulation of fishery habitat, to encourage the
growth of the wild stocks.
70. Secretary - the Secretary of the Department of Agriculture.
71. Superlight - also called magic light, is a type of light using halogen or metal halide bulb which may be
located above the sea surface or submerged in the water. It consists of a ballast, regulator, electric cable
and socket. The source of energy comes from a generator, battery or dynamo coupled with the main engine.
72. Total Allowable Catch (TAC. - the maximum harvest allowed to be taken during a given period of time
from any fishery area, or from any fishery species or group of fishery species, or a combination of area and
species and normally would not exceed the MSY.
73. Trawl - an active fishing gear consisting of a bag shaped net with or without otter boards to open its
opening which is dragged or towed along the bottom or through the water column to take fishery species by
straining them from the water, including all variations and modifications of trawls (bottom, mid-water, and
baby trawls) and tow nets.
CHAPTER II
Utilization, Management, Development, Conservation and Allocation System of Fisheries and Aquatic
Resources
Section 5. Use of Philippine Waters. - The use and exploitation of the fishery and aquatic resources in Philippine
waters shall be reserved exclusively to Filipinos: Provided, however, That research and survey activities may be
allowed under strict regulations, for purely research, scientific, technological and educational purposes that would
also benefit Filipino citizens.
Section 6. Fees and Other Fishery Charges. - The rentals for fishpond areas covered by the Fishpond Lease
Agreement (FLA) and license fees for Commercial Fishing Boat Licenses (CFBL) shall be set at levels that reflect
resource rent accruing from the utilization of resources and shall be determined by the Department: Provided, That
the Department shall also prescribe fees and other fishery charges and issue the corresponding license or permit for
fishing gear, fishing accessories and other fishery activities beyond the municipal waters: Provided, further, That the
license fees of fishery activity in municipal waters shall be determined by the Local Government Units (LGUs) in
consultation with the FARMCs. The FARMCs may also recommend the appropriate license fees that will be
imposed.
Section 7. Access to Fishery Resources. - The Department shall issue such number of licenses and permits for
the conduct of fishery activities subject to the limits of the MSY of the resource as determined by scientific studies or
best available evidence. Preference shall be given to resource users in the local communities adjacent or nearest to
the municipal waters.
Section 8. Catch Ceiling Limitations. - The Secretary may prescribe limitations or quota on the total quantity of
fish captured, for a specified period of time and specified area based on the best available evidence. Such a catch
ceiling may be imposed per species of fish whenever necessary and practicable: Provided, however, That in
municipal waters and fishery management areas, and waters under the jurisdiction of special agencies, catch
ceilings may be established upon the concurrence and approval or recommendation of such special agency and the
concerned LGU in consultation with the FARMC for conservation or ecological purposes.
Section 9. Establishment of Closed Season. - The Secretary may declare, through public notice in at least two (2)
newspapers of general circulation or in public service announcements, whichever is applicable, at least five (5) days
before the declaration, a closed season in any or all Philippine waters outside the boundary of municipal waters and
in bays, for conservation and ecological purposes. The Secretary may include waters under the jurisdiction of

special agencies, municipal waters and bays, and/or other areas reserved for the use of the municipal fisherfolk in
the area to be covered by the closed season: Provided, however, That this shall be done only upon the concurrence
and approval or recommendation of such special agency and the concerned LGU and FARMC: Provided, further,
That in municipal waters, fishery management areas and other areas reserved for the use of the municipal
fisherfolk, closed season may be established by the concerned LGU in consultation with the FARMC for
conservation or ecological purposes. The FARMCs may also recommend the establishment of closed seasons in
municipal waters, fisheries management and other areas reserved for the use of the municipal fisherfolk.
Section 10. Introduction of Foreign Aquatic Species. - No foreign finfish, mollusk, crustacean or aquatic plants
shall be introduced in Philippine waters without a sound ecological, biological and environmental justification based
on scientific studies subject to the bio-safety standard as provided for by existing laws: Provided, however, That the
Department may approve the introduction of foreign aquatic species for scientific/research purposes.
Section 11. Protection of Rare, Threatened and Endangered Species. - The Department shall declare closed
seasons and take conservation and rehabilitation measures for rare, threatened and endangered species, as it may
determine, and shall ban the fishing and/or taking of rare, threatened and/or endangered species, including their
eggs/offspring as identified by existing laws in concurrence with concerned government agencies.
Section 12. Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). - All government agencies as well as private corporations,
firms and entities who intend to undertake activities or projects which will affect the quality of the environment shall
be required to prepare a detailed Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) prior to undertaking such development
activity. The preparation of the EIS shall form an integral part of the entire planning process pursuant to the
provisions of Presidential Decree No. 1586 as well as its implementing rules and regulations.
Section 13. Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC). - All Environmental Impact Statements (EIS) shall be
submitted to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for review and evaluation. No person,
natural or juridical, shall undertake any development project without first securing an Environmental Compliance
Certificate (ECC) from the Secretary of the DENR.
Section 14. Monitoring, Control and Surveillance of Philippine Waters. - A monitoring, control and surveillance
system shall be established by the Department in coordination with LGUs, FARMCs, the private sector and other
agencies concerned to ensure that the fisheries and aquatic resources in Philippine waters are judiciously and
wisely utilized and managed on a sustainable basis and conserved for the benefit and enjoyment exclusively of
Filipino citizens.
Section 15. Auxiliary Invoices. - All fish and fishery products must have an auxiliary invoice to be issued by the
LGUs or their duly authorized representatives prior to their transport from their point of origin to their point of
destination in the Philippines and/or export purposes upon payment of a fee to be determined by the LGUs to defray
administrative costs therefor.
ARTICLE I
MUNICIPAL FISHERIES
Section 16. Jurisdiction of Municipal/City Government. - The municipal/city government shall have jurisdiction
over municipal waters as defined in this Code. The municipal/city government, in consultation with the FARMC shall
be responsible for the management, conservation, development, protection, utilization, and disposition of all fish and
fishery/aquatic resources within their respective municipal waters.
The municipal/city government may, in consultation with the FARMC, enact appropriate ordinances for this purpose
and in accordance with the National Fisheries Policy. The ordinances enacted by the municipality and component
city shall be reviewed pursuant to Republic Act No. 7160 by the sanggunian of the province which has jurisdiction
over the same.
The LGUs shall also enforce all fishery laws, rules and regulations as well as valid fishery ordinances enacted by
the municipal/city council.

The management of contiguous fishery resources such as bays which straddle several municipalities, cities or
provinces, shall be done in an integrated manner, and shall not be based on political subdivisions of municipal
waters in order to facilitate their management as single resource systems. The LGUs which share or border such
resources may group themselves and coordinate with each other to achieve the objectives of integrated fishery
resource management. The Integrated Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Councils (FARMCs)
established under Section 76 of this Code shall serve as the venues for close collaboration among LGUs in the
management of contiguous resources.
Section 17. Grant of Fishing Privileges in Municipal Waters. - The duly registered fisherfolk
organizations/cooperatives shall have preference in the grant of fishery rights by the Municipal/City Council pursuant
to Section 149 of the Local Government Code: Provided, That in areas where there are special agencies or offices
vested with jurisdiction over municipal waters by virtue of special laws creating these agencies such as, but not
limited to, the Laguna Lake Development Authority and the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development, said
offices and agencies shall continue to grant permits for proper management and implementation of the
aforementioned structures.
Section 18. Users of Municipal Waters. - All fishery related activities in municipal waters, as defined in this Code,
shall be utilized by municipal fisherfolk and their cooperatives/organizations who are listed as such in the registry of
municipal fisherfolk.
The municipal or city government, however, may, through its local chief executive and acting pursuant to an
appropriate ordinance, authorize or permit small and medium commercial fishing vessels to operate within the ten
point one (10.1) to fifteen (15) kilometer area from the shoreline in municipal waters as defined herein, provided,
that all the following are met:
(a) no commercial fishing in municipal waters with depth less than seven (7) fathoms as certified by the
appropriate agency;
(b) fishing activities utilizing methods and gears that are determined to be consistent with national policies
set by the Department;
(c) prior consultation, through public hearing, with the M/CFARMC has been conducted; and
(d) the applicant vessel as well as the shipowner, employer, captain and crew have been certified by the
appropriate agency as not having violated this Code, environmental laws and related laws.
In no case shall the authorization or permit mentioned above be granted for fishing in bays as determined by the
Department to be in an environmentally critical condition and during closed season as provided for in Section 9 of
this Code.
Section 19. Registry of Municipal Fisherfolk. - The LGU shall maintain a registry of municipal fisherfolk, who are
fishing or may desire to fish in municipal waters for the purpose of determining priorities among them, of limiting
entry into the municipal waters, and of monitoring fishing activities an/or other related purposes: Provided, That the
FARMC shall submit to the LGU the list of priorities for its consideration.
Such list or registry shall be updated annually or as may be necessary, and shall be posted in barangay halls or
other strategic locations where it shall be open to public inspection, for the purpose of validating the correctness and
completeness of the list. The LGU, in consultation with the FARMCs, shall formulate the necessary mechanisms for
inclusion or exclusion procedures that shall be most beneficial to the resident municipal fisherfolk. The FARMCs
may likewise recommend such mechanisms.
The LGUs shall also maintain a registry of municipal fishing vessels by type of gear and other boat particulars with
the assistance of the FARMC.
Section 20. Fisherfolk Organizations and/or Cooperatives. - Fisherfolk organizations/cooperatives whose
members are listed in the registry of municipal fisherfolk, may be granted use of demarcated fishery areas to
engage in fish capture, mariculture and/or fish farming: Provided, however, That an organization/cooperative

member whose household is already in possession of a fishery right other than for fish capture cannot enjoy the
fishing rights granted to the organization or cooperative.
Section 21. Priority of Resident Municipal Fisherfolk. - Resident municipal fisherfolk of the municipality
concerned and their organizations/cooperatives shall have priority to exploit municipal and demarcated fishery areas
of the said municipality.
Section 22. Demarcated Fishery Right. - The LGU concerned shall grant demarcated fishery rights to fishery
organizations/cooperatives for mariculture operation in specific areas identified by the Department.
Section 23. Limited Entry Into Overfished Areas. - Whenever it is determined by the LGUs and the Department
that a municipal water is overfished based on available data or information or in danger of being overfished, and that
there is a need to regenerate the fishery resources in that water, the LGU shall prohibit or limit fishery activities in
the said waters.
Section 24. Support to Municipal Fisherfolk. - The Department and the LGUs shall provide support to municipal
fisherfolk through appropriate technology and research, credit, production and marketing assistance and other
services such as, but not limited to training for additional/supplementary livelihood.
Section 25. Rights and Privileges of Fishworkers. - The fishworkers shall be entitled to the privileges accorded to
other workers under the Labor Code, Social Security System and other benefits under other laws or social
legislation for workers: Provided, That fishworkers on board any fishing vessels engaged in fishing operations are
hereby covered by the Philippine Labor Code, as amended.
ARTICLE II
COMMERCIAL FISHERIES
Section 26. Commercial Fishing Vessel License and Other Licenses. - No person shall operate a commercial
fishing vessel, pearl fishing vessel or fishing vessel for scientific, research or educational purposes, or engage in
any fishery activity, or seek employment as a fishworker or pearl diver without first securing a license from the
Department, the period of which shall be prescribed by the Department: Provided, That no such license shall be
required of a fishing vessel engaged in scientific, research or educational purposes within Philippine waters
pursuant to an international agreement of which the Philippines is a signatory and which agreement defines the
status, privileges and obligations of said vessel and its crew and the non-Filipino officials of the international agency
under which said vessel operates: Provided, further, That members of the crew of a fishing vessel used for
commercial fishing except the duly licensed and/or authorized patrons, marine engineers, radio operators and cooks
shall be considered as fisherfolk: Provided, furthermore, That all skippers/master fishers shall be required to
undertake an orientation training on detection of fish caught by illegal means before they can be issued their
fishworker licenses: Provided, finally, That the large commercial fishing vessels license herein authorized to be
granted shall allow the licensee to operate only in Philippine waters seven (7) or more fathoms deep, the depth to
be certified by the NAMRIA, and subject to the conditions that may be stated therein and the rules and regulations
that may be promulgated by the Department.
Section 27. Persons Eligible for Commercial Fishing Vessel License. - No commercial fishing vessel license
shall be issued except to citizens of the Philippines, partnerships or to associations, cooperatives or corporations
duly registered in the Philippines at least sixty percent (60%) of the capital stock of which is owned by Filipino
citizens. No person to whom a license has been issued shall sell, transfer or assign, directly or indirectly, his stock or
interest therein to any person not qualified to hold a license. Any such transfer, sale or assignment shall be null and
void and shall not be registered in the books of the association, cooperative or corporation.
For purposes of commercial fishing, fishing vessels owned by citizens of the Philippines, partnerships, corporations,
cooperatives or associations qualified under this section shall secure Certificates of Philippine Registry and such
other documents as are necessary for fishing operations from the concerned agencies: Provided, That the
commercial fishing vessel license shall be valid for a period to be determined by the Department.

Section 28. Commercial Fishing Vessel Registration. - The registration, documentation, inspection and manning
of the operation of all types of fishing vessels plying Philippine waters shall be in accordance with laws, rules and
regulations.
Section 29. Registration and Licensing of Fishing Gears Used in Commercial Fishing. - Before a commercial
fishing vessel holding a commercial fishing vessel license may begin fishing operations in Philippine waters, the
fishing gear it will utilize in fishing shall be registered and a license granted therefor. The Department shall
promulgate guidelines to implement this provision within sixty (60) days from approval of this Code.
Section 30. Renewal of Commercial Boat License. - The commercial fishing boat license shall be renewed every
three (3) years.
The owner/operator of a fishing vessel has a period of sixty (60) days prior to the expiration of the license within
which to renew the same.
Section 31. Report of Transfer of Ownership. - The owner/operator of a registered fishing vessel shall notify the
Department in writing of the transfer of the ownership of the vessel with a copy of such document within ten (10)
days after its transfer to another person.
Section 32. Fishing by Philippine Commercial Fishing Fleet in International Waters. - Fishing vessels of
Philippine registry may operate in international waters or waters of other countries which allow such fishing
operations: Provided, That they comply with the safety, manning and other requirements of the Philippine Coast
Guard, Maritime Industry Authority and other agencies concerned: Provided, however, That they secure an
international fishing permit and certificate of clearance from the Department: Provided, further, That the fish caught
by such vessels shall be considered as caught in Philippine waters and therefore not subject to all import duties and
taxes only when the same is landed in duly designated fish landings and fish ports in the Philippines: Provided,
furthermore, That landing ports established by canneries, seafood processors and all fish landing sites established
prior to the effectivity of this Code shall be considered authorized landing sites: Provided, finally, That fishworkers on
board Philippine registered fishing vessels conducting fishing activities beyond the Philippine Exclusive Economic
Zone are not considered as overseas Filipino workers.
Section 33. Importation of Fishing Vessels or Construction of New Fishing Boats. - Prior to the importation of
fishing vessels and the construction of new fishing vessels, the approval/clearance of the Department must first be
obtained.
Section 34. Incentives for Municipal and Small-Scale Commercial Fisherfolk. - Municipal and small-scale
commercial fisherfolk shall be granted incentives which shall include, but are not limited to, the following:
(a) at least ten percent (10%) of the credit and the guarantee funds of government financing institutions shall
be made available for post-harvest and marketing projects for the purpose of enhancing our fisherfolk
competitiveness by reducing post-harvest losses. Qualified projects shall include, but shall not be limited to,
ice plants, cold storage, canning, warehouse, transport and other related infrastructure projects and
facilities; and
(b) the Department shall undertake the following programs:
1. a capability-building program for targeted parties shall be developed by the Department to
promote greater bankability and credit worthiness of municipal and small-scale commercial fishers.
Such program shall include organizing activities, technology transfer, and skills training related to
commercial fishing as well as credit management. Groups and cooperatives organized under the
program shall have priority access over credit and guarantee funds established under this Code; and
2. an information campaign shall be conducted to promote the capability building and credit
programs. The campaign shall ensure greater information dissemination and accessibility to targeted
fisherfolk.

Section 35. Incentives for Commercial Fishers to Fish Farther into the Exclusive Economic Zone. - In order to
encourage fishing vessel operators to fish farther in the EEZ and beyond, new incentives for improvement of fishing
vessels and acquisition of fishing equipment shall be granted in addition to incentives already available from the
Board of Investments (BOI). Such incentives shall be granted subject to exhaustive evaluation of resource and
exploitation conditions in the specified areas of fishing operations. The incentive shall include, but not be limited to:
(a) long term loans supported by guarantee facilities to finance the building and acquisition and/or
improvement of fishing vessels and equipment;
(b) commercial fishing vessel operators of Philippine registry shall enjoy a limited period of tax and duty
exemptions on the importation of fishing vessels not more than five (5) years old, equipment and
paraphernalia, the period of exemption and guidelines shall be fixed by the Department within ninety (90)
days from the effectivity of this Code;
(c) commercial fishing operator of Philippine registry engaged in fisheries in the high seas shall be entitled to
duty and tax rebates on fuel consumption for commercial fisheries operations. Guidelines shall be
promulgated within ninety (90) days from the effectivity of this Code by the Department; and
(d) all applicable incentives available under the Omnibus Investment Code of 1987: Provided, That the
fishing operation project is qualified for registration and is duly registered with the BOI.
Section 36. Complement of Fishing Vessels. - Every commercial fishing vessel of Philippine registry when
actually operated, shall be manned in accordance with the requirements of the Philippine Merchant Marine rules
and regulations.
Section 37. Medical Supplies and Life-Saving Devices. - All fishing vessels shall be provided with adequate
medical supplies and life-saving devices to be determined by the Occupational Safety and Health Center: Provided,
That a fishing vessel of twenty (20) GT or more shall have as a member of its crew a person qualified as a first aider
duly certified by the Philippine National Red Cross.
Section 38. Reportorial Requirements. - Each commercial fishing vessel shall keep a daily record of fish catch
and spoilage, landing points, and quantity and value of fish caught, and off-loaded for transshipment, sale and/or
other disposal. Detailed information shall be duly certified by the vessel's captain and transmitted monthly to the
officer or representative of the Department, at the nearest designated landing point.
Section 39. Report of Meteorological and Other Data. - All vessels and crafts passing navigational lanes or
engaged in fisheries activity shall be required to contribute to meteorological and other data, and shall assist the
Department in documentation or reporting of information vital to navigation and the fishing industry.
Section 40. Color Code and Radio Frequency. - For administrative efficiency and enforcement of regulations,
registered fishing vessels shall bear a color code as may be determined by the Department and may be assigned a
radio frequency specific and distinct to its area of operation.
Section 41. Passage. - Commercial and other passage not in the regular conduct of fisheries activity shall be made
at designated navigational lanes.
Section 42. Transshipment. - Foreign fishing vessels wishing to avail of land, air and sea facilities available in the
Philippines to transport fishery products which are caught outside Philippine territorial waters to its final destination
shall call only at duly designated government-owned or -controlled regional fishport complexes after securing
clearance from the Department.
Section 43. Operation of Radio Communication Facilities on Board Fishing Vessels. - The Department shall
promulgate guidelines in the operation of radio communication facilities on board fishing vessels and the
assignment of radio frequencies specific and distinct to area of operation in coordination with the National
Telecommunications Commission.

Section 44. Use of Superlight. - The number and wattage of superlights used in commercial fishing vessels shall
be regulated by the Department: Provided, That the use of superlights is banned within municipal waters and bays.
ARTICLE III
AQUACULTURE
Section 45. Disposition of Public Lands for Fishery Purposes. - Public lands such as tidal swamps, mangroves,
marshes, foreshore lands and ponds suitable for fishery operations shall not be disposed or alienated. Upon
effectivity of this Code, FLA may be issued for public lands that may be declared available for fishpond development
primarily to qualified fisherfolk cooperatives/associations: Provided, however, That upon the expiration of existing
FLAs the current lessees shall be given priority and be entitled to an extension of twenty-five (25) years in the
utilization of their respective leased areas. Thereafter, such FLAs shall be granted to any Filipino citizen with
preference, primarily to qualified fisherfolk cooperatives/associations as well as small and medium enterprises as
defined under Republic Act No. 8289: Provided, further, That the Department shall declare as reservation, portions
of available public lands certified as suitable for fishpond purposes for fish sanctuary, conservation, and ecological
purposes: Provided, finally, That two (2) years after the approval of this Act, no fish pens or fish cages or fish traps
shall be allowed in lakes.
Section 46. Lease of Fishponds. - Fishpond leased to qualified persons and fisherfolk organizations/cooperatives
shall be subject to the following conditions:
(a) Areas leased for fishpond purposes shall be no more than 50 hectares for individuals and 250 hectares
for corporations or fisherfolk organizations;
(b) The lease shall be for a period of twenty-five (25) years and renewable for another twenty-five (25) years:
Provided, That in case of the death of the lessee, his spouse and/or children, as his heirs, shall have
preemptive rights to the unexpired term of his Fishpond Lease Agreement subject to the same terms and
conditions provided herein provided that the said heirs are qualified;
(c) Lease rates for fishpond areas shall be determined by the Department: Provided, That all fees collected
shall be remitted to the National Fisheries Research and Development Institute and other qualified research
institutions to be used for aquaculture research development;
(d) The area leased shall be developed and producing on a commercial scale within three (3) years from the
approval of the lease contract: Provided, however, That all areas not fully producing within five (5) years
from the date of approval of the lease contract shall automatically revert to the public domain for
reforestation;
(e) The fishpond shall not be subleased, in whole or in part, and failure to comply with this provision shall
mean cancellation of FLA;
(f) The transfer or assignment of rights to FLA shall be allowed only upon prior written approval of the
Department;
(g) The lessee shall undertake reforestation for river banks, bays, streams, and seashore fronting the dike of
his fishpond subject to the rules and regulations to be promulgated thereon; and
(h) The lessee shall provide facilities that will minimize environmental pollution, i.e., settling ponds,
reservoirs, etc: Provided, That failure to comply with this provision shall mean cancellation of FLA.
Section 47. Code of Practice for Aquaculture. - The Department shall establish a code of practice for aquaculture
that will outline general principles and guidelines for environmentally-sound design and operation to promote the
sustainable development of the industry. Such Code shall be developed through a consultative process with the
DENR, the fishworkers, FLA holders, fishpond owners, fisherfolk cooperatives, small-scale operators, research
institutions and the academe, and other potential stakeholders. The Department may consult with specialized
international organizations in the formulation of the code of practice.

Section 48. Incentives and Disincentives for Sustainable Aquaculture Practices. - The Department shall
formulate incentives and disincentives, such as, but not limited to, effluent charges, user fees and negotiable
permits, to encourage compliance with the environmental standards and to promote sustainable management
practices.
Section 49. Reversion of All Abandoned, Undeveloped or Underutilized Fishponds. - The DENR, in
coordination with the Department, LGUs, other concerned agencies and FARMCs shall determine which
abandoned, underdeveloped or underutilized fishponds covered by FLAs can be reverted to their original mangrove
state and after having made such determination shall take all steps necessary to restore such areas in their original
mangrove state.
Section 50. Absentee Fishpond Lease Agreement Holders. - Holders of fishpond lease agreements who have
acquired citizenship in another country during the existence of the FLA shall have their lease automatically
cancelled and the improvements thereon to be forfeited in favor of the government and disposed of in accordance
with rules and regulations promulgated thereon.
Section 51. License to Operate Fish Pens, Fish Cages, Fish Traps and Other Structures for the Culture of
Fish and Other Fishery Products. - Fish pens, fish cages, fish traps and other structures for the culture of fish and
other fishery products shall be constructed and shall operate only within established zones duly designated by
LGUs in consultation with the FARMCs concerned consistent with national fisheries policies after the corresponding
licenses thereof have been secured. The area to be utilized for this purpose for individual person shall be
determined by the LGUs in consultation with the concerned FARMC: Provided, however, That not over ten percent
(10%) of the suitable water surface area of all lakes and rivers shall be allotted for aquaculture purposes like fish
pens, fish cages and fish traps; and the stocking density and feeding requirement which shall be controlled and
determined by its carrying capacity: Provided, further, That fish pens and fish cages located outside municipal
waters shall be constructed and operated only within fish pen and fish cage belts designated by the Department and
after corresponding licenses therefor have been secured and the fees thereof paid.
Section 52. Pearl Farm Leases. - The foregoing provisions notwithstanding, existing pearl farm leases shall be
respected and allowed to operate under the terms thereof. New leases may be granted to qualified persons who
possess the necessary capital and technology, by the LGUs having jurisdiction over the area.
Section 53. Grant of Privileges for Operations of Fish Pens, Cages, Corrals/Traps and Similar Structures. No new concessions, licenses, permits, leases and similar privileges for the establishment or operation of fish pens,
fish cages, fish corrals/traps and other similar structures in municipal areas shall be granted except to municipal
fisherfolk and their organizations.
Section 54. Insurance for Fishponds, Fish Cages and Fish Pens. - Inland fishponds, fish cages and fish pens
shall be covered under the insurance program of the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation for losses caused by
force majeure and fortuitous events.
Section 55. Non-Obstruction to Navigation. - Nothing in the foregoing sections shall be construed as permitting
the lessee, licensee, or permittee to undertake any construction which will obstruct the free navigation in any
stream, river, lakes, or bays flowing through or adjoining the fish pens, fish cages, fish traps and fishponds, or
impede the flow of the tide to and from the area. Any construction made in violation hereof shall be removed upon
the order of the Department in coordination with the other government agencies concerned at the expense of the
lessee, licensee, or occupants thereof, whenever applicable. The Department shall within thirty (30) days after the
effectivity of this Code formulate and implement rules and regulations for the immediate dismantling of existing
obstruction to navigation.
Section 56. Non-Obstruction to Defined Migration Paths. - Nothing in the foregoing sections shall be construed
as permitting the lessee, permittee, or licensee to undertake any construction which will obstruct any defined
migration path of migratory fish species such as river mouths and estuaries with a distance determined by the
concerned LGUs in consultation with and upon the recommendation of the FARMCs.
Section 57. Registration of Fish Hatcheries and Private Fishponds, etc. - All fish hatcheries, fish breeding
facilities and private fishponds must be registered with the LGUs which shall prescribe minimum standards for such
facilities in consultation with the Department: Provided, That the Department shall conduct a yearly inventory of all

fishponds, fish pens and fish cages whether in public or private lands: Provided, further, That all fishpond, fish pens
and fish cage operators shall annually report to the Department the type of species and volume of production in
areas devoted to aquaculture.
ARTICLE IV
POST-HARVEST FACILITIES, ACTIVITIES AND TRADES
Section 58. Comprehensive Post-harvest and Ancillary Industries Plan. - The Department shall conduct a
regular study of fisheries post-harvest operations and ancillary industries, in the formulation of a comprehensive
plan for post-harvest and ancillary industries. It shall take into account among others, the following:
(a) detailed and clear guidelines on the distribution, construction, maintenance and use of post-harvest
infrastructure facilities;
(b) extension of credit and incentives for post-harvest operations;
(c) promotion and strengthening of semi-processing, processing and handling;
(d) development of domestic fishmeal industry;
(e) development of fisheries ship-building and repair as a viable industry;
(f) development and strengthening of marketing facilities and activities, including the pricing system, with
emphasis on collective marketing and the elimination of middlemen;
(g) increased participation of cooperatives and non-governmental organizations in post-harvest operations
and ancillary industries; and
(h) integration of fisheries post-harvest operations into the national fisheries plan.
Section 59. Establishment of Post-Harvest Facilities for Fishing Communities. - The LGUs shall coordinate
with the private sector and other concerned agencies and FARMCs in the establishment of post-harvest facilities for
fishing communities such as, but not limited to, municipal fish landing sites, fish ports, ice plants and cold storage
and other fish processing establishments to serve primarily the needs of municipal fisherfolk: Provided, That such
post-harvest facilities shall be consistent with the Comprehensive Post-harvest and Ancillary Industries Plan.
Section 60. Registration and Licensing of all Post-Harvest Facilities. - All post-harvest facilities such as fish
processing plants, ice plants, and cold storages, fish ports/landings and other fishery business establishments must
register with and be licensed by the LGUs which shall prescribe minimum standards for such facilities in consultation
with the Department.
Section 61. Importation and Exportation of Fishery Products. (a) Export of fishery products shall be regulated whenever such exportation affects domestic food security
and production: Provided, That exportation of live fish shall be prohibited except those which are hatched or
propagated in accredited hatcheries and ponds;
(b) To protect and maintain the local biodiversity or ensure the sufficiency of domestic supply, spawners,
breeders, eggs and fry of bangus, prawn and other endemic species, as may be determined by the
Department, shall not be exported or caused to be exported by any person;
(c) Fishery products may be imported only when the importation has been certified as necessary by the
Department in consultation with the FARMC, and all the requirements of this Code, as well as all existing
rules and regulations have been complied with: Provided, That fish imports for canning/processing purposes
only may be allowed without the necessary certification, but within the provisions of Section 61(d) of this
Code; and

(d) No person, shall import and/or export fishery products of whatever size, stage or form for any purpose
without securing a permit from the Department.
The Department in consultation with the FARMC shall promulgate rules and regulations on importation and
exportation of fish and fishery/aquatic resources with the Government's export/import simplification procedures.
Section 62. Instruments of Weights and Measures, and Quality Grades/Standards. - Standards for weights,
volume and other measurements for all fishery transactions shall be set by the Department.
All fish and fishery products for export, import and domestic consumption shall meet the quality grades/standards as
determined by the Department.
The LGU concerned shall, by appropriate ordinance, penalize fraudulent practices and unlawful possession or use
of instruments of weights and measures.
CHAPTER III
Reconstitution of The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources and Creation of Fisheries and Aquatic
Resources Management Councils
ARTICLE I
RECONSTITUTION OF THE BUREAU OF FISHERIES AND AQUATIC RESOURCES
Section 63. Creation of the Position of Undersecretary for Fisheries and Aquatic Resources. - There is hereby
created in the Department of Agriculture the position of Undersecretary for Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, solely
for the purpose of attending to the needs of the fishing industry, to be appointed by the President. Such
Undersecretary shall have the following functions:
(a) set policies and formulate standards for the effective, efficient and economical operations of the fishing
industry in accordance with the programs of the government;
(b) exercise overall supervision over all functions and activities of all offices and instrumentalities and other
offices related to fisheries including its officers;
(c) establish, with the assistance of the director, such regional, provincial and other fishery officers as may
be necessary and appropriate and organize the internal structure of BFAR in such manner as is necessary
for the efficient and effective attainment of its objectives and purposes; and
(d) perform such other functions as may be necessary or proper to attain the objectives of this Code.
Section 64. Reconstitution of the BFAR. - The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) is hereby
reconstituted as a line bureau under the Department of Agriculture.
Section 65. Functions of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources. - As a line bureau, the BFAR shall
have the following functions:
(a) prepare and implement a Comprehensive National Fisheries Industry Development Plan;
(b) issue licenses for the operation of commercial fishing vessels;
(c) issue identification cards free of charge to fishworkers engaged in commercial fishing;
(d) monitor and review joint fishing agreements between Filipino citizens and foreigners who conduct fishing
activities in international waters, and ensure that such agreements are not contrary to Philippine
commitment under international treaties and convention on fishing in the high seas;

(e) formulate and implement a Comprehensive Fishery Research and Development Program, such as, but
not limited to, sea farming, sea ranching, tropical/ornamental fish and seaweed culture, aimed at increasing
resource productivity, improving resource use efficiency, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the
country's fishery and aquatic resources;
(f) establish and maintain a Comprehensive Fishery Information System;
(g) provide extensive development support services in all aspects of fisheries production, processing and
marketing;
(h) provide advisory services and technical assistance on the improvement of quality of fish from the time it
is caught (i.e. on board fishing vessel, at landing areas, fish markets, to the processing plants and to the
distribution and marketing chain);
(i) coordinate efforts relating to fishery production undertaken by the primary fishery producers, LGUs,
FARMCs, fishery and organizations/cooperatives;
(j) advise and coordinate with LGUs on the maintenance of proper sanitation and hygienic practices in fish
markets and fish landing areas;
(k) establish a corps of specialists in collaboration with the Department of National Defense, Department of
the Interior and Local Government, Department of Foreign Affairs for the efficient monitoring, control and
surveillance of fishing activities within Philippine territorial waters and provide the necessary facilities,
equipment and training therefor;
(l) implement an inspection system for import and export of fishery/aquatic products and fish processing
establishments, consistent with international standards to ensure product quality and safety;
(m) coordinate with LGUs and other concerned agencies for the establishment of productivity enhancing and
market development programs in fishing communities to enable women to engage in other
fisheries/economic activities and contribute significantly to development efforts;
(n) enforce all laws, formulate and enforce all rules and regulations governing the conservation and
management of fishery resources, except in municipal waters, and to settle conflicts of resource use and
allocation in consultation with the NFARMC, LGUs and local FARMCs;
(o) develop value-added fishery-products for domestic consumption and export;

lawphi1

(p) recommend measures for the protection/enhancement of the fishery industries;

(q) assist the LGUs in developing their technical capability in the development, management, regulation,
conservation, and protection of the fishery resources;
(r) formulate rules and regulations for the conservation and management of straddling fish stocks and highly
migratory fish stocks; and
(s) perform such other related functions which shall promote the development, conservation, management,
protection and utilization of fisheries and aquatic resources.
Section 66. Composition of BFAR. - As a line bureau, the BFAR shall be headed by a Director and assisted by two
(2) Assistant Directors who shall supervise the administrative and technical services of the bureau respectively. It
shall establish regional, provincial and municipal offices as may be appropriate and necessary to carry out
effectively and efficiently the provisions of this Code.

Section 67. Fisheries Inspection and Quarantine Service. - For purposes of monitoring and regulating the
importation and exportation of fish and fishery/aquatic resources, the Fisheries Inspection and Quarantine Service in
the BFAR is hereby strengthened and shall have the following functions:
(a) conduct fisheries quarantine and quality inspection of all fish and fishery/aquatic products coming into
and going out of the country by air or water transport, to detect the presence of fish pest and diseases and if
found to harbor fish pests or diseases shall be confiscated and disposed of in accordance with
environmental standards and practices;
(b) implement international agreements/commitments on bio-safety and bio-diversity as well as prevent the
movement or trade of endemic fishery and aquatic resources to ensure that the same are not taken out of
the country;
(c) quarantine such aquatic animals and other fishery products determined or suspected to be with fishery
pests and diseases and prevent the movement or trade from and/or into the country of these products so
prohibited or regulated under existing laws, rules and regulations as well as international agreements of
which the Philippines is a State Party;
(d) examine all fish and fishery products coming into or going out of the country which may be a source or
medium of fish pests or diseases and/or regulated by existing fishery regulations and ensure that the quality
of fish import and export meet international standards; and
(e) document and authorize the movement or trade of fish and fishery products when found free of fish pests
or diseases and collect necessary fees prescribed by law and regulations.
ARTICLE II
THE FISHERIES AND AQUATIC RESOURCES MANAGEMENT COUNCILS (FARMCs)
Section 68. Development of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources in Municipal Waters and Bays. - Fisherfolk and
their organizations residing within the geographical jurisdiction of the barangays, municipalities or cities with the
concerned LGUs shall develop the fishery/aquatic resources in municipal waters and bays.
Section 69. Creation of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Councils (FARMCs). - FARMCs shall
be established in the national level and in all municipalities/cities abutting municipal waters as defined by this Code.
The FARMCs shall be formed by fisherfolk organizations/cooperatives and NGOs in the locality and be assisted by
the LGUs and other government entities. Before organizing FARMCs, the LGUs, NGOs, fisherfolk, and other
concerned POs shall undergo consultation and orientation on the formation of FARMCs.
Section 70. Creation and Composition of the National Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management
Council (NFARMC). - There is hereby created a National Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Council
hereinafter referred to as NFARMC as an advisory/recommendatory body to the Department. The NFARMC shall be
composed of fifteen (15) members consisting of:
(a) the Undersecretary of Agriculture, as Chairman;
(b) the Undersecretary of the Interior and Local Government;
(c) five (5) members representing the fisherfolk and fishworkers;
(d) five (5) members representing commercial fishing and aquaculture operators and the processing sectors;
(e) two (2) members from the academe; and
(f) one (1) representative of NGOs involved in fisheries.

The members of the NFARMC, except for the Undersecretary of Agriculture and the Undersecretary of the Interior
and Local Government, shall be appointed by the President upon the nomination of their respective organizations.
Section 71. Terms of Office. - The members of NFARMC, except the Undersecretary of Agriculture and the
Undersecretary of the Interior and Local Government, shall serve for a term of three (3) years without
reappointment.
Section 72. Functions of the NFARMC. - The NFARMC shall have the following functions:
(a) assist in the formulation of national policies for the protection, sustainable development and management
of fishery and aquatic resources for the approval of the Secretary;
(b) assist the Department in the preparation of the National Fisheries and Industry Development Plan; and
(c) perform such other functions as may be provided by law.
Section 73. The Municipal/City Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Councils (M/CFARMCs). - The
M/CFARMCs shall be created in each of the municipalities and cities abutting municipal waters. However, the LGU
may create the Barangay Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Councils (BFARMCs) and the Lakewide
Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Councils (LFARMCs) whenever necessary. Such BFARMCs and
LFARMCs shall serve in an advisory capacity to the LGUs.
Section 74. Functions of the M/CFARMCs. - The M/CFARMCs shall exercise the following functions:
(a) assist in the preparation of the Municipal Fishery Development Plan and submit such plan to the
Municipal Development Council;
(b) recommend the enactment of municipal fishery ordinances to the sangguniang bayan/sangguniang
panlungsod through its Committee on Fisheries;
(c) assist in the enforcement of fishery laws, rules and regulations in municipal waters;
(d) advise the sangguniang bayan/panlungsod on fishery matters through its Committee on Fisheries, if such
has been organized; and
(e) perform such other functions which may be assigned by the sangguniang bayan/panlungsod.
Section 75. Composition of the M/CFARMC . - The regular member of the M/CFARMCs shall be composed of:
(a) Municipal/City Planning Development Officer;
(b) Chairperson, Agriculture/Fishery Committee of the Sangguniang Bayan/Panlungsod;
(c) representative of the Municipal/City Development Council;
(d) representative from the accredited non-government organization;
(e) representative from the private sector;
(f) representative from the Department of Agriculture; and
(g) at least eleven (11) fisherfolk representatives (seven (7) municipal fisherfolk, one (1) fishworker and three
(3) commercial fishers) in each municipality/city which include representative from youth and women sector.
The Council shall adopt rules and regulations necessary to govern its proceedings and election.

Section 76. The Integrated Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Councils (IFARMCs). - The
IFARMCs shall be created in bays, gulfs, lakes and rivers and dams bounded by two (2) or more
municipalities/cities.
Section 77. Functions of the IFARMCs. - The IFARMC shall have the following functions:
(a) assist in the preparation of the Integrated Fishery Development Plan and submit such plan to the
concerned Municipal Development Councils;
(b) recommend the enactment of integrated fishery ordinances to the concerned sangguniang
bayan/panlungsod through its Committee on Fisheries, if such has been organized;
(c) assist in the enforcement of fishery laws, rules and regulations in concerned municipal waters;
(d) advice the concerned sangguniang bayan/panlungsod on fishery matters through its Committee on
Fisheries, if such has been organized; and
(e) perform such other functions which may be assigned by the concerned sangguniang bayan/panlungsod.
Section 78. Composition of the IFARMCs. - The regular members of the IFARMCs shall be composed of the
following:
(a) the chairperson of the Committee on Agriculture/Fisheries of the concerned sangguniang
bayan/panlungsod;
(b) the Municipal/City Fisheries Officers of the concerned municipalities/cities;
(c) the Municipal/City Development Officers of the concerned municipalities/cities;
(d) one (1) representative from NGO;
(e) one (1) representative from private sector; and
(f) at least nine (9) representatives from the fisherfolk sector which include representatives from the youth
and women sector.
The Council shall adopt rules and regulations necessary to govern its proceedings and election.
Section 79. Source of Funds of the FARMCs. - A separate fund for the NFARMC, IFARMCs and M/CFARMCs
shall be established and administered by the Department from the regular annual budgetary appropriations.
CHAPTER IV
Fishery Reserves, Refuge and Sanctuaries
Section 80. Fishing Areas Reserves for Exclusive Use of Government. - The Department may designate area
or areas in Philippine waters beyond fifteen (15) kilometers from shoreline as fishery reservation for the exclusive
use of the government or any of its political subdivisions, agencies or instrumentalities, for propagation, educational,
research and scientific purposes: Provided, That in municipalities or cities, the concerned LGUs in consultation with
the FARMCs may recommend to the Department that portion of the municipal waters be declared as fishery
reserves for special or limited use, for educational, research, and/or special management purposes. The FARMCs
may recommend to the Department portions of the municipal waters which can be declared as fisheries reserves for
special or limited use for educational, research and special management purposes.
Section 81. Fish Refuge and Sanctuaries. - The Department may establish fish refuge and sanctuaries to be
administered in the manner to be prescribed by the BFAR at least twenty-five percent (25%) but not more than forty
percent (40%) of bays, foreshore lands, continental shelf or any fishing ground shall be set aside for the cultivation

of mangroves to strengthen the habitat and the spawning grounds of fish. Within these areas no commercial fishing
shall be allowed. All marine fishery reserves, fish sanctuaries and mangrove swamp reservations already declared
or proclaimed by the President or legislated by the Congress of the Philippines shall be continuously administered
and supervised by the concerned agency: Provided, however, That in municipal waters, the concerned LGU in
consultation with the FARMCs may establish fishery refuge and sanctuaries. The FARMCs may also recommend
fishery refuge and sanctuaries: Provided, further, That at least fifteen percent (15%) where applicable of the total
coastal areas in each municipality shall be identified, based on the best available scientific data and in consultation
with the Department, and automatically designated as fish sanctuaries by the LGUs in consultation with the
concerned FARMCs.
CHAPTER V
Fisheries Research and Development
Section 82. Creation of a National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (NFRDI). - In recognition of
the important role of fisheries research in the development, management, conservation and protection of the
country's fisheries and aquatic resources, there is hereby created a National Fisheries Research and Development
Institute (NFRDI).
The Institute shall form part of the National Research and Development Network of the Department of Science and
Technology (DOST).
The Institute, which shall be attached to the Department shall serve as the primary research arm of the BFAR. The
overall governance of the Institute shall be vested in the Governing Board which shall formulate policy guidelines for
its operation. The plans, programs and operational budget shall be passed by the Board. The Board may create
such committees as it may deem necessary for the proper and effective performance of its functions. The
composition of the Governing Board shall be as follows:
(a) Undersecretary for Fisheries - Chairman
(b) BFAR Director - Vice Chairman
(c) NFRDI Executive Director - Member
(d) PCAMRD Executive Director - Member
(e) Representative from the academe - Member
(f) four (4) representatives from the private sector who shall come from the following subsectors: - Members

Municipal Fisherfolk
Commercial Fishing Operator
Aquaculture Operator
Post-Harvest/Processor

The NFRDI shall have a separate budget specific to its manpower requirements and operations to ensure the
independent and objective implementation of its research activities.
Section 83. Qualification Standard. - The Institute shall be headed by an Executive Director to be appointed by
the President of the Philippines upon the recommendation of the governing board. The Executive Director shall hold
a Doctorate degree in fisheries and/or other related disciplines. The organizational structure and staffing pattern
shall be approved by the Department: Provided, however, That the staffing pattern and remunerations for scientific
and technical staff shall be based on the qualification standards for science and technology personnel.
Section 84. Research and Development Objectives. - Researches to be done by the NFRDI are expected to
result in the following:

(a) To raise the income of the fisherfolk and to elevate the Philippines among the top five (5) in the world
ranking in the fish productions;
(b) to make the country's fishing industry in the high seas competitive;
(c) to conduct social research on fisherfolk families for a better understanding of their conditions and needs;
and
(d) to coordinate with the fisheries schools, LGUs and private sectors regarding the maximum utilization of
available technology, including the transfer of such technology to the industry particularly the fisherfolk.
Section 85. Functions of the NFRDI . - As a national institute, the NFRDI shall have the following functions:
(a) establish a national infrastructure unit complete with technologically-advanced features and modern
scientific equipment, which shall facilitate, monitor, and implement various research needs and activities of
the fisheries sector;
(b) provide a venue for intensive training and development of human resources in the field of fisheries, a
repository of all fisheries researches and scientific information;
(c) provide intensive training and development of human resources in the field of fisheries for the maximum
utilization of available technology;
(d) hasten the realization of the economic potential of the fisheries sector by maximizing developmental
research efforts in accordance with the requirements of the national fisheries conservations and
development programs, also possibly through collaborative effort with international institutions; and
(e) formally establish, strengthen and expand the network of fisheries-researching communities through
effective communication linkages nationwide.
CHAPTER VI
Prohibitions and Penalties
Section 86. Unauthorized Fishing or Engaging in Other Unauthorized Fisheries Activities. - No person shall
exploit, occupy, produce, breed, culture, capture or gather fish, fry or fingerlings of any fishery species or fishery
products, or engage in any fishery activity in Philippine waters without a license, lease or permit.
Discovery of any person in an area where he has no permit or registration papers for a fishing vessel shall constitute
a prima facie presumption that the person and/or vessel is engaged in unauthorized fishing: Provided, That fishing
for daily food sustenance or for leisure which is not for commercial, occupation or livelihood purposes may be
allowed.
It shall be unlawful for any commercial fishing vessel to fish in bays and in such other fishery management areas
which may hereinafter be declared as over-exploited.
Any commercial fishing boat captain or the three (3) highest officers of the boat who commit any of the above
prohibited acts upon conviction shall be punished by a fine equivalent to the value of catch or Ten thousand pesos
(P10,000.00) whichever is higher, and imprisonment of six (6) months, confiscation of catch and fishing gears, and
automatic revocation of license.
It shall be unlawful for any person not listed in the registry of municipal fisherfolk to engage in any commercial
fishing activity in municipal waters. Any municipal fisherfolk who commits such violation shall be punished by
confiscation of catch and a fine of Five hundred pesos (500.00).
Section 87. Poaching in Philippine Waters. - It shall be unlawful for any foreign person, corporation or entity to
fish or operate any fishing vessel in Philippine waters.

The entry of any foreign fishing vessel in Philippine waters shall constitute a prima facie evidence that the vessel is
engaged in fishing in Philippine waters.
Violation of the above shall be punished by a fine of One hundred thousand U.S. Dollars (US$100,000.00), in
addition to the confiscation of its catch, fishing equipment and fishing vessel: Provided, That the Department is
empowered to impose an administrative fine of not less than Fifty thousand U.S. Dollars (US$50,000.00) but not
more than Two hundred thousand U.S. Dollars (US$200,000.00) or its equivalent in the Philippine Currency.
Section 88. Fishing Through Explosives, Noxious or Poisonous Substance, and/or Electricity. (1) It shall be unlawful for any person to catch, take or gather or cause to be caught, taken or gathered, fish
or any fishery species in Philippine waters with the use of electricity, explosives, noxious or poisonous
substance such as sodium cyanide in the Philippine fishery areas, which will kill, stupefy, disable or render
unconscious fish or fishery species: Provided, That the Department, subject to such safeguards and
conditions deemed necessary and endorsement from the concerned LGUs, may allow, for research,
educational or scientific purposes only, the use of electricity, poisonous or noxious substances to catch, take
or gather fish or fishery species: Provided, further, That the use of poisonous or noxious substances to
eradicate predators in fishponds in accordance with accepted scientific practices and without causing
adverse environmental impact in neighboring waters and grounds shall not be construed as illegal fishing.
It will likewise be unlawful for any person, corporation or entity to possess, deal in, sell or in any manner
dispose of, any fish or fishery species which have been illegally caught, taken or gathered.
The discovery of dynamite, other explosives and chemical compounds which contain combustible elements,
or noxious or poisonous substances, or equipment or device for electro-fishing in any fishing vessel or in the
possession of any fisherfolk, operator, fishing boat official or fishworker shall constitute prima facie evidence,
that the same was used for fishing in violation of this Code. The discovery in any fishing vessel of fish
caught or killed with the use of explosive, noxious or poisonous substances or by electricity shall constitute
prima facie evidence that the fisherfolk, operator, boat official or fishworker is fishing with the use thereof.
(2) Mere possession of explosive, noxious or poisonous substances or electrofishing devices for illegal
fishing shall be punishable by imprisonment ranging from six (6) months to two (2) years.
(3) Actual use of explosives, noxious or poisonous substances or electrofishing devices for illegal fishing
shall be punishable by imprisonment ranging from five (5) years to ten (10) years without prejudice to the
filing of separate criminal cases when the use of the same result to physical injury or loss of human life.
(4) Dealing in, selling, or in any manner disposing of, for profit, illegally caught/gathered fisheries species
shall be punished by imprisonment ranging from six (6) months to two (2) years.
(5) In all cases enumerated above, the explosives, noxious or poisonous substances and/or electrical
devices, as well as the fishing vessels, fishing equipment and catch shall be forfeited.
Section 89. Use of Fine Mesh Net. - It shall be unlawful to engage in fishing using nets with mesh smaller than that
which may be fixed by the Department: Provided, That the prohibition on the use of fine mesh net shall not apply to
the gathering of fry, glass eels, elvers, tabios, and alamang and such species which by their nature are small but
already mature to be identified in the implementing rules and regulations by the Department.
Violation of the above shall subject the offender to a fine from Two thousand pesos (P2,000.00) to Twenty thousand
pesos (P20,000.00) or imprisonment from six (6) months to two (2) years or both such fine and imprisonment at the
discretion of the court: Provided, That if the offense is committed by a commercial fishing vessel, the boat captain
and the master fisherman shall also be subject to the penalties provided herein: Provided, further, That the
owner/operator of the commercial fishing vessel who violates this provision shall be subjected to the same penalties
provided herein: Provided, finally, That the Department is hereby empowered to impose upon the offender an
administrative fine and/or cancel his permit or license or both.

Section 90. Use of Active Gear in the Municipal Waters and Bays and Other Fishery Management Areas. - It
shall be unlawful to engage in fishing in municipal waters and in all bays as well as other fishery management areas
using active fishing gears as defined in this Code.
Violators of the above prohibitions shall suffer the following penalties:
(1) The boat captain and master fisherman of the vessels who participated in the violation shall suffer the
penalty of imprisonment from two (2) years to six (6) years;
(2) The owner/operator of the vessel shall be fined from Two thousand pesos (P2,000.00) to Twenty
thousand pesos (20,000.00) upon the discretion of the court.
If the owner/operator is a corporation, the penalty shall be imposed on the chief executive officer of the
Corporation.
If the owner/operator is a partnership the penalty shall be imposed on the managing partner.
(3) The catch shall be confiscated and forfeited.
Section 91. Ban on Coral Exploitation and Exportation. - It shall be unlawful for any person or corporation to
gather, possess, sell or export ordinary precious and semi-precious corals, whether raw or in processed form,
except for scientific or research purposes.
Violations of this provision shall be punished by imprisonment from six (6) months to two (2) years and a fine from
Two thousand pesos (P2,000.00) to Twenty thousand pesos (20,000.00), or both such fine and imprisonment, at the
discretion of the court, and forfeiture of the subject corals, including the vessel and its proper disposition.
The confiscated corals shall either be returned to the sea or donated to schools and museums for educational or
scientific purposes or disposed through other means.
Section 92. Ban on Muro-Ami Other Methods and Gear Destructive to Coral Reefs and Other Marine Habitat.It shall be unlawful for any person, natural or juridical, to fish with gear method that destroys coral reefs, seagrass
beds, and other fishery marine life habitat as may be determined by the Department. "Muro-Ami" and any of its
variation, and such similar gear and methods that require diving, other physical or mechanical acts to pound the
coral reefs and other habitat to entrap, gather or catch fish and other fishery species are also prohibited.
The operator, boat captain, master fisherman, and recruiter or organizer of fishworkers who violate this provision
shall suffer a penalty of two (2) years to ten (10) years imprisonment and a fine of not less than One hundred
thousand pesos (P100,000.00) to Five hundred thousand pesos (P500,000.00) or both such fine and imprisonment,
at the discretion of the court. The catch and gear used shall be confiscated.
It shall likewise be unlawful for any person or corporation to gather, sell or export white sand, silica, pebbles and any
other substances which make up any marine habitat.
The person or corporation who violates this provision shall suffer a penalty of two (2) years to ten (10) years
imprisonment and a fine of not less than One hundred thousand pesos (P100,000.00) to Five hundred thousand
pesos (P500,000.00) or both such fine and imprisonment, at the discretion of the court. The substance taken from
its marine habitat shall be confiscated.
Section 93. Illegal Use of Superlights. - It shall be unlawful to engage in fishing with the use of superlights in
municipal waters or in violation of the rules and regulations which may be promulgated by the Department on the
use of superlights outside municipal waters.
Violations of this provision shall be punished by imprisonment from six (6) months to two (2) years or a fine of Five
thousand pesos (P5,000.00) per superlight, or both such fine and imprisonment at the discretion of the courts. The
superlight, fishing gears and vessel shall be confiscated.

Section 94. Conversion of Mangroves. - It shall be unlawful for any person to convert mangroves into fishponds or
for any other purposes.
Violation of the provision of this section shall be punished by imprisonment of six (6) years and one (1) day to twelve
(12) years and/or a fine of Eighty thousand pesos (P80,000.00): Provided, That if the area requires rehabilitation or
restoration as determined by the court, the offender should also be required to restore or compensate for the
restoration of the damage.
Section 95. Fishing in Overfished Area and During Closed Season. - It shall be unlawful to fish in overfished
area and during closed season.
Violation of the provision of this section shall be punished by imprisonment of six (6) months and one (1) day to six
(6) years and/or fine of Six thousand pesos (P6,000.00) and by forfeiture of the catch and cancellation of fishing
permit or license.
Section 96. Fishing in Fishery Reserves, Refuge and Sanctuaries. - It shall be unlawful to fish in fishery areas
declared by the Department as fishery reserves, refuge and sanctuaries.
Violation of the provision of this section shall be punished by imprisonment of two (2) years to six (6) years and/or
fine of Two thousand pesos (P2,000.00) to Twenty thousand pesos (P20,000.00) and by forfeiture of the catch and
the cancellation of fishing permit or license.
Section 97. Fishing Or Taking of Rare, Threatened or Endangered Species. - It shall be unlawful to fish or take
rare, threatened or endangered species as listed in the CITES and as determined by the Department.
Violation of the provision of this section shall be punished by imprisonment of twelve (12) years to twenty (20) years
and/or a fine of One hundred and twenty thousand pesos (P120,000.00) and forfeiture of the catch, and the
cancellation of fishing permit.
Section 98. Capture of Sabalo and Other Breeders/Spawners. - It shall be unlawful for any person to catch,
gather, capture or possess mature milkfish or "sabalo" and such other breeders or spawners of other fishery species
as may be determined by the Department: Provided, That catching of "sabalo" and other breeders/spawners for
local breeding purposes or scientific or research purposes may be allowed subject to guidelines to be promulgated
by the Department.
Violation of the provision of this section shall be punished by imprisonment of six (6) months and one (1) day to
eight (8) years and/or a fine of Eighty thousand pesos (P80,000.00) and forfeiture of the catch, and fishing
equipment used and revocation of license.
Section 99. Exportation of Breeders, Spawners, Eggs or Fry. - Exportation of breeders, spawners, eggs or fry as
prohibited in this Code shall be punished by imprisonment of eight (8) years, confiscation of the same or a fine
equivalent to double the value of the same, and revocation of the fishing and/or export license/permit.
Section 100. Importation or Exportation of Fish or Fishery Species. - Any importation or exportation of fish or
fisheries species in violation of this Code shall be punished by eight (8) years of imprisonment, a fine of Eighty
thousand pesos (P80,000.00) and destruction of live fishery species or forfeiture of non-live fishery species in favor
of the department for its proper disposition: Provided, That violator of this provision shall be banned from being
members or stock holders of companies currently engaged in fisheries or companies to be created in the future, the
guidelines for which shall be promulgated by the Department.
Section 101. Violation of Catch Ceilings. - It shall be unlawful for any person to fish in violation of catch ceilings
as determined by the Department. Violation of the provision of this section shall be punished by imprisonment of six
(6) months and one (1) day to six (6) years and/or a fine of Fifty thousand pesos (P50,000.00) and forfeiture of the
catch, and fishing equipment used and revocation of license.
Section 102. Aquatic Pollution. - Aquatic pollution, as defined in this Code shall be unlawful.

Violation of the provision of this section shall be punished by imprisonment of six (6) years and one (1) day to twelve
(12) years and/or a fine of Eighty thousand pesos (P80,000.00) plus an additional fine of Eight thousand pesos
(P8,000.00) per day until such violation ceases and the fines paid.
Section 103. Other Violations. - The following fisheries activities shall also be considered as a violation of this
Code:
(a) Failure to Comply with Minimum Safety Standards. - The owner and captain of a commercial fishing
vessel engaged in fishing who, upon demand by proper authorities, fails to exhibit or show proof of
compliance with the safety standards provided in this Code, shall be immediately prevented from continuing
with his fishing activity and escorted to the nearest port or landing point. The license to operate the
commercial fishing vessel shall be suspended until the safety standard has been complied with.
(b) Failure to Conduct a Yearly Report on all Fishponds, Fish Pens and Fish Cages. - The FLA of the holder
who fails to render a yearly report shall be immediately cancelled: Provided, That if the offender be the
owner of the fishpond, fish pen or fish cage, he shall be subjected to the following penalties: (1) first offense,
a fine of Five hundred pesos (P500.00) per unreported hectare; (2) subsequent offenses, a fine of One
thousand pesos (1,000.00) per unreported hectare.
(c) Gathering and Marketing of Shell Fishes. - It shall be unlawful for any person to take, sell, transfer, or
have in possession for any purpose any shell fish which is sexually mature or below the minimum size or
above the maximum quantities prescribed for the particular species.
(d) Obstruction to Navigation or Flow and Ebb of Tide in any Stream, River, Lake or Bay. - It shall be
unlawful for any person who causes obstruction to navigation or flow or ebb of tide.
(e) Construction and Operation of Fish Corrals/Traps, Fish Pens and Fish Cages. - It shall be unlawful to
construct and operate fish corrals/traps, fish pens and fish cages without a license/permit.
Subject to the provision of subparagraph (b) of this section, violation of the above-enumerated prohibited acts shall
subject the offender to a fine ranging from Two thousand pesos (P2,000.00) to Ten thousand pesos (P10,000.00) or
imprisonment from one (1) month and one (1) day to six (6) months, or both such fine and imprisonment, upon the
discretion of the court: Provided, That the Secretary is hereby empowered to impose upon the offender an
administrative fine of not more than Ten thousand pesos (P10,000.00) or to cancel his permit or license, or to
impose such fine and to cancel his permit or license, in the discretion of the Secretary: Provided, further, That the
Secretary, or his duly authorized representative, and law enforcement agents are hereby empowered to impound
with the assistance of the Philippine Coast Guard, PNP-Maritime Command: Provided, finally, That any person who
unlawfully obstructs or delays the inspection and/or movement of fish and fishery/aquatic products when such
inspection and/or movement is authorized under this Code, shall be subject to a fine of not more than Ten thousand
pesos (P10,000.00) or imprisonment of not more than two (2) years, or both such fine and imprisonment, upon the
discretion of the court.
Every penalty imposed for the commission of an offense shall carry with it the forfeiture of the proceeds of such
offense and the instruments or tools with which it was committed.
Such proceeds and instruments or tools shall be confiscated and forfeited in favor of the Government, unless they
be the property of a third person not liable for the offense, but those articles which are not subject of lawful
commerce shall be destroyed.
Section 104. Commercial Fishing Vessel Operators Employing Unlicensed Fisherfolk or Fishworker or
Crew.- The owner/operator of a commercial fishing vessel employing unlicensed fisherfolk or fishworker shall be
fined Five hundred pesos (P500.00) each for every month that the same has been employed and/or One thousand
pesos (P1,000.00) for every month for each unlicensed crew member who has been employed.
Section 105. Obstruction of Defined Migration Paths. - Obstruction of any defined migration paths of
anadromous, catadromous and other migratory species, in areas including, but not limited to river mouths and
estuaries within a distance determined by the concerned FARMCs shall be punished by imprisonment of seven (7)

years to twelve (12) years or a fine from Fifty thousand pesos (P50,000.00) to One hundred thousand pesos
(P100,000.00)or both imprisonment and fine at the discretion of the court, and cancellation of permit/license, if any,
and dismantling of obstruction shall be at his own expense and confiscation of same.
Section 106. Obstruction to Fishery Law Enforcement Officer. - The boat owner, master or operator or any
person acting on his behalf of any fishing vessel who evades, obstructs or hinders any fishery law enforcement
officer of the Department to perform his duty, shall be fined Ten thousand pesos (P10,000.00). In addition, the
registration, permit and/or license of the vessel including the license of the master fisherman shall be canceled.
Section 107. Promulgation of Administrative Orders. - For purposes of fishery regulation or other fishery
adjustments, the Department in consultation with the LGUs and local FARMCs, shall issue Fishery Administrative
Orders or regulations for the conservation, preservation, management and sustainable development of fishery and
aquatic resources.
CHAPTER VII
General Provisions
Section 108. Fisherfolk Settlement Areas. - The Department shall establish and create fisherfolk settlement areas
in coordination with concerned agencies of the government, where certain areas of the public domain, specifically
near the fishing grounds, shall be reserved for the settlement of the municipal fisherfolk. Nothing in this section shall
be construed to vest ownership of any resettlement area to a municipal fisherfolk for whom said areas may have
been reserved for or had been actually granted to.
Section 109. Municipal Fisheries Grant Fund. - For the development, management and conservation of the
municipal resources, there is hereby created a Fishery Grant Fund to finance fishery projects of the LGUs primarily
for the upliftment of the municipal fisherfolk. The amount of One hundred million pesos (P100,000,000.00) is hereby
appropriated out of the Department's allocation in the General Appropriations Act (GAA) to support the Grant Fund.
For this purpose, the Department may seek financial assistance from any source and may receive any donation
therefore.
Section 110. Fishery Loan and Guarantee Fund. - Pursuant to Section 7, Article XIII of the Constitution, there is
hereby created a Fishery Loan and Guarantee Fund with an initial of One hundred million pesos (P100,000,000.00),
which shall be administered by the Land Bank of the Philippines. The fund shall be made available for lending to
qualified borrowers to finance the development of the fishery industry under a program to be prescribed by the
Department.
For the same purpose, the Department may seek financial assistance from any source and may receive any
donation therefrom.
Section 111. Fishing Vessels Development Fund. - There is hereby created a Fishing Vessels Development Fund
to enhance the building and/or acquisition of fishing vessels. This shall be a long-term loan facility that shall be
administered by the Development Bank of the Philippines. The amount of Two hundred and fifty million pesos
(P250,000,000.00) per year for five (5) years is hereby appropriated out of the Department's allocation in the GAA to
support this Development Fund.
Section 112. Special Fisheries Science and Approfishtech Fund. - The Department shall provide subsidy for full
technical and financial support to the development of appropriate technology, both in fishery and ancillary industries,
that are ecologically sound, locally source-based and labor intensive, based on the requirement and needs of the
FARMCs. An initial amount of One hundred million pesos (100,000,000.00) shall be authorized for the purpose of a
Special Fisheries Science and Approfishtech Fund, and thereafter shall be included in the GAA.
Section 113. Aquaculture Investment Fund. - An Aquaculture Investment Fund in the minimum amount of Fifty
million pesos (P50,000,000.00) shall be established for soft loans which shall be extended to municipal fisherfolk
and their organization who will engage in aquaculture, and for the development of underdeveloped or underutilized
inland fishponds.

Section 114. Other Fisheries Financing Facilities. - In addition to fisheries credit guarantee, grant and other
similar facilities granted under this Code, qualified Filipino fisherfolk and fisheries enterprises shall enjoy such other
facilities granted them under existing and/or new laws, specially as to rural credit, with preference being given to
fisheries cooperatives.
Section 115. Professionalization of Fisheries Graduates. - There is hereby created a Fisheries Board of
Examiners in the Professional Regulation Commission to upgrade the Fisheries Profession: Provided, however,
That those who have passed the Civil Service Examination for Fisheries shall automatically be granted eligibility by
the Fisheries Board of Examiners: Provided, further, That they have served the industry in either public or private
capacity for not less than five (5) years: Provided, finally, That the first Board Examination for B.S. Fisheries
Graduates shall be conducted within one (1) year from the approval of this Code.
Section 116. Upgrading of State Fisheries Schools/Colleges. - The Department, in coordination with the
Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Department of Education, Culture and Sports (DECS), and Technical
Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), shall upgrade State Fisheries Schools/Colleges which
provide both formal and non-formal education: Provided, however, That the CHED shall incorporate Approfishtech in
the curricula of fisheries schools/colleges.
The Department and the CHED shall jointly formulate standards to upgrade all fisheries schools/colleges. Fisheries
schools/colleges that do not meet minimum standards shall be closed.
Section 117. Inclusion of Fisheries Conservation Subjects in School Curriculum. - Fisheries conservation
subjects shall be incorporated in the curricula of elementary and secondary schools both private and public.
Section 118. Educational campaign at all levels. - The Department, the CHED, the DECS and the Philippine
Information Agency shall launch and pursue a nationwide educational campaign to:
(a) help realize the policies and implement the provisions of this Code;
(b) promote the development, management, conservation and proper use of the environment;
(c) promote the principle of sustainable development; and
(d) promote the development of truly Filipino-oriented fishing and ancillary industries.
Section 119. Infrastructure Support. - The Department in cooperation with concerned agencies shall:
(a) prepare and implement a nationwide plan for the development of municipal fishing ports and markets;
(b) prioritize the construction of farm-to-market roads linking the fisheries production sites, coastal landing
points and other post-harvest facilities to major market and arterial roads/highways;
(c) identity community infrastructure facilities such as fish landing ports, ice plant and cold storage facilities
in consultation with fishery cooperatives/associations and prepare plans and designs for their construction
that would be consistent with international environmental impact;
(d) establish and maintain quality laboratories in major fish ports and prescribe the highest standards for the
operation and maintenance of such post-harvest facilities;
(e) arrange and make representations with appropriate funding institutions to finance such facilities for the
use of the fishery cooperatives/associations;
(f) develop and strengthen marketing facilities and promote cooperative marketing systems; and
(g) promote and strengthen local fisheries ship-building and repair industry.

Section 120. Extension Services. - The Department shall develop cost-effective, practical and efficient extension
services on a sustained basis, in addition to those provided by state educational institutions, especially to municipal
fisherfolk in undeveloped areas, utilizing practicable and indigenous resources and government agencies available,
and based upon a system of self-reliance and self-help.
Section 121. Protection of Sensitive Technical Information. - The Department shall take such measures as may
be necessary in order to protect trade, industrial and policy information of Filipino fisherfolk, fisheries
owners/operators, entrepreneurs, manufacturers and researchers, when disclosure of such information will injure
the competitiveness or viability of domestic fisheries.
Section 122. Assistance in Collecting Information. - The Department, in coordination with other government
entities concerned, may require Filipino representatives abroad and foreign-based personnel to assist in the
collection of fisheries data and information.
Section 123. Charting of Navigational Lanes and Delineation of Municipal Waters. - The Department shall
authorize the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA) for the designation and charting of
navigational lanes in fishery areas and delineation of municipal waters. The Philippine Coast Guard shall exercise
control and supervision over such designated navigational lanes.
Section 124. Persons and Deputies Authorized to Enforce this Code and Other Fishery Laws, Rules and
Regulations. - The law enforcement officers of the Department, the Philippine Navy, Philippine Coast Guard,
Philippine National Police (PNP), PNP-Maritime Command, law enforcement officers of the LGUs and other
government enforcement agencies, are hereby authorized to enforce this Code and other fishery laws, rules and
regulations. Other competent government officials and employees, punong barangays and officers and members of
fisherfolk associations who have undergone training on law enforcement may be designated in writing by the
Department as deputy fish wardens in the enforcement of this Code and other fishery laws, rules and regulations.
Section 125. Strengthening Prosecution and Conviction of Violators of Fishery Laws. - The Department of
Justice (DOJ) shall embark on a program to strengthen the prosecution and conviction aspects of fishery law
enforcement through augmentation of the current complement of state prosecutors and through their continuous
training and reorientation on fishery laws, rules and regulations.
Section 126. Foreign Grants and Aids. - All foreign grants, aids, exchange programs, loans, researches and the
like shall be evaluated and regulated by the Department to ensure that such are consistent with the Filipinization,
democratization and industrialization of fishing industry and the development of the entire country.
Section 127. Mandatory Review. - The Congress of the Philippines shall undertake a mandatory review of this
Code at least once every five (5) years and as often as it may deem necessary, to ensure that fisheries policies and
guidelines remain responsive to changing circumstances.
CHAPTER VIII
Transitory Provisions
Section 128. Moratoria. - The Department shall, upon the recommendation of the Bureau, have the power to
declare a moratorium on the issuance of licenses for commercial fishing vessels to operate in specified area or
areas in Philippine waters for a limited period of time if there are indications of overfishing brought about by a
decrease in the volume and sizes of fish caught therein or for conservation or ecological purposes.
No new licenses and similar privileges on exploitation of specific fishery areas in Philippine waters and aquaculture
production areas shall be issued in accordance with this Code. Such moratoria shall not exceed five (5) years from
the effectivity of this Code.
Section 129. Formulation of Implementing Rules and Regulations. - An Inter-agency Committee is hereby
created to formulate rules and regulations for the full implementation of this Code within ninety (90) days of its
effectivity: Provided, however, That the formulated rules and regulations shall be submitted to both Houses of
Congress for information and guidance. Such rules and regulations shall take effect upon publication in a
newspaper of general circulation.

The Inter-agency Committee shall be composed of the following:

(a) Secretary of Agriculture as Chairman;
(b) Secretary of the Interior and Local Government;
(c) Secretary of Environment and Natural Resources;
(d) Secretary of Justice;
(e) Secretary of Finance;
(f) Secretary of Budget and Management;
(g) Secretary of Labor and Employment;
(h) Secretary of National Defense;
(i) Commissioner of Civil Service Commission;
(j) Director of BFAR;
(k) Executive Director of PCAMRD;
(l) General Manager of PFDA;
(m) One (1) representative from each of the following:
(a.1) The League of Provinces;
(a.2) The League of Cities;
(a.3) The League of Municipalities;
(a.4) The Liga ng mga Barangay;
(n) Representative of the municipal fisherfolk;

lawphi1

(o) Representative of the commercial fishers;

(p) Representative of the non-government organizations involved in fishing concerns; and
(q) A representative from the academe coming from the specialized fisheries institution.
CHAPTER IX
Final Provisions
Section 130. Appropriation. - The sum necessary to effectively carry out the provisions of this Act during the first
year of implementation shall be sourced from the budget of the DA/BFAR and other agencies performing fisheriesrelated functions: Provided, however, That such amount as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of Sections
79, 109, 110, 111, 112, 113 are hereby appropriated out of the unappropriated funds of the National Treasury. The
Congress of the Philippines shall provide for the appropriations of the Department, the NFRDI and the Fisheries
Scholarship Program for the succeeding years to be included in the annual GAA.

Section 131. Repealing Clause. - Presidential Decree No. 704, as amended by Presidential Decree Nos. 1015 and
1058, Presidential Decree No. 977, as amended, Executive Order No. 967, Series of 1984, Executive Order No.
116, Series of 1987, Executive Order No. 292, Series of 1987, Executive Order No. 473, Series of 1991 and other
existing laws except Republic Act No. 7611, decrees, executive orders, and rules and regulations or parts thereof,
which are inconsistent with this Code, are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.
Section 132. Separability Clause. - If any portion or provision of this Code is declared unconstitutional or invalid,
the other portions or provisions hereof, which are not affected thereby, shall continue in full force and effect.
Section 133. Effectivity. - This Code shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in the Official Gazette or
in two (2) newspapers of general publication.
Approved: February 25, 1998

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REPUBLIC ACT NO. 4850 July 18, 1966

AN ACT CREATING THE LAGUNA LAKE DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY, PRESCRIBING ITS POWERS,
FUNCTIONS AND DUTIES, PROVIDING FUNDS THEREFOR, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
CHAPTER I
DECLARATION OF POLICY AND CREATION OF AUTHORITY
Sec. 1. Declaration of Policy. It is hereby declared to be the national policy to promote, and accelerate the
development and balanced growth of the Laguna Lake area and the surrounding provinces, cities and towns
hereinafter referred to as the region, within the context of the national and regional plans and policies for social and
economic development and to carry out the development of the Laguna Lake region with due regard and adequate
provisions for environmental management and control, preservation of the quality of human life and ecological
systems, and the prevention of undue ecological disturbances, deterioration and pollution.
Sec. 2. Laguna Lake Development Authority created. For the purpose of carrying out and effecting the declared
policy, as provided for in Section one hereof, there is hereby created a body corporate to be known as the Laguna
Lake Development Authority, hereinafter referred to as the Authority, which shall be organized within one hundred
twenty (120) days after the approval of this Act. The Authority shall execute the powers and functions herein vested
and conferred upon it in such a manner as will, in its judgment, aid to the fullest possible extent in carrying out the
aims and purposes set forth below. This Act may be known as the Laguna Lake Development Authority Act of 1966.
Sec. 3. Location of principal office. The Authority shall maintain its principal office at a convenient place within the
region, but it may have branch offices in such other places as are necessary for the proper conduct of its business.
Sec. 4. Special Powers and Functions. The Authority shall exercise perform the following powers and functions:
(a) To make a comprehensive survey of the physical and natural resources and potentialities of the Laguna Lake
region particularly its social and economic conditions, hydrologic characteristics, power potentials, scenic and tourist
spots, regional problems, and on the basis thereof, to draft a comprehensive and detailed plan designed to
conserve and utilize optimally the resources within the region particularly Laguna de Bay to promote the region's
rapid social and economic development and upon approval by the National Economic and Development Authority
(NEDA) Board of such plan, to implement the same including projects in line with said plan: Provided, That
implementation of all fisheries plans and programs of the authority shall require prior consensus of the Bureau of
Fisheries and Aquatic Resources to ensure that such plans and programs are consistent with the national fisheries

plans and programs. For the purpose of said survey, public agencies shall submit and private entities shall provide
necessary data except such data which under existing laws are deemed inviolable.
(b) To provide the machinery for extending the necessary planning, management and technical assistance to
prospective and existing investors in the region;
(c) To make recommendation to the proper agencies on the peso or dollar financing, technical support, physical
assistance and, generally, the level of priority to be accorded agricultural, industrial and commercial projects,
soliciting or requiring direct help from or through the government or any of its instrumentalities;
(d) To pass upon and approve or disapprove all plans, programs, and projects proposed by local government
offices/agencies within the region, public corporations, and private persons or enterprises where such plans,
programs and/or projects are related to those of the Authority for the development of the region as envisioned in this
Act. The Authority shall issue the necessary clearance for approved proposed plans, programs, and projects within
thirty days from submission thereof unless the proposals are not in consonance with those of the Authority or that
those will contribute to the unmanageable pollution of the Laguna Lake waters or will bring about the ecological
imbalance of the region: Provided, further, That the Authority is hereby empowered to institute necessary legal
proceeding against any person who shall commence to implement or continue implementation of any project, plan
or program within the Laguna de Bay region without previous clearance from the Authority: Provided,
furthermore,That any local government office, agency, public corporation, private person, or enterprise whose plans,
programs and/or projects have been disapproved by the Authority may appeal the decision of the Authority to the
NEDA within fifteen (15) days from receipt of such disapproval whose decision on the matter shall be final.
Reasonable processing fees as may be fixed by the Authority's Board of Directors shall be collected by the Authority
for the processing of such plans, programs and/or projects: Provided, finally, The expansion plans shall be
considered as new plans subject to review of the Authority and to payment of the processing fees.
The Authority and national and local government offices, agencies and public corporations shall coordinate their
plans, programs, projects and licensing procedures with respect to the Laguna Lake region for the purpose of
drawing up a Laguna Lake development plan which shall be binding upon all parties concerned upon approval of
the NEDA board.
(e) To engage in agriculture, industry, commerce, or other activities within the region which may be necessary or
directly contributory to the socio-economic development of the region, and, for this purposes, whether by itself or in
cooperation with private persons or entities, to organize, finance, invest in, and operate subsidiary
corporations:Provided, That the Authority shall engage only, unless public interest requires otherwise, in those
activities as are in the nature of new ventures or are clearly beyond the scope, capacity, or interest or private
enterprises due to consideration of geography, technical or capital requirements, returns on investment, and risk;
(f) To plan, program finance/or undertake infrastructure projects such as river, flood and tidal control works, waste
water and sewerage works, water supply, roads, portworks, irrigation, housing and related works, when so required
within the context of its development plans and programs including the readjustment, relocation or settlement of
population within the region as may be necessary and beneficial by the Authority: Provided, That should any project
be financed wholly or in part by the Authority, it is hereby authorized to collect reasonable fees and tolls as may be
fixed by its Board of Directors subject to the approval of the NEDA Board from users and/or beneficiaries thereof to
recover costs of construction, operation and maintenance of the projects: Provided, further, That if the Authority
should find it necessary to undertake such infrastructure projects which are classified, as social overhead capital
projects as determined by the NEDA, the Authority shall be authorized to receive financial assistance from the
government in such amount as may be necessary to carry out the said projects subject to such terms and condition
that may be imposed by the government, upon recommendation of the NEDA Board: Provided, finally, That such
amount as may be necessary for the purpose is hereby authorized to be appropriated out of the funds of the
National Treasury not otherwise appropriated.
(g) To make an annual report to the stockholders regarding the operation of the Authority more particularly a
statement of its financial conditions, activities undertaken, progress of projects and programs and plans of actions
for the incoming years: Provided, however, That a majority of the stockholders may require the Authority to submit
report or reports other than the annual report herein required, which report must be submitted within a period of
thirty (30) days from notice thereof;

(h) To lend or facilitate the extension of financial assistance and/or act as surety or guarantor to worthwhile
agricultural, industrial and commercial enterprises;
(i) To reclaim or cause to the reclaimed portions of the Lake or undertake reclamation projects and/or acquire such
bodies of land from the lake which may be necessary to accomplish the aims and purposes of the Authority subject
to the approval of the NEDA Board: Provided, That the land so reclaimed shall be the property of the Authority and
title thereto shall be vested in the Authority: Provided, further, That the resulting lake shore shall continue to be
owned by the national government.
(j) The provisions of existing laws to the contrary notwithstanding, to engage in fish production and other aquaculture projects in Laguna de Bay and other bodies of water within its jurisdiction and in pursuance thereof to
conduct studies and make experiments, whenever necessary, with the collaboration and assistance of the Bureau of
Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, with the end in view of improving present techniques and practice. Provided, That
until modified, altered or amended by the procedure provided in the following sub-paragraph, the present laws, rules
and permits or authorizations remain in force;
(k) For the purpose of effectively regulating and monitoring activities in Laguna de Bay, the Authority shall have
exclusive jurisdiction to issue new permit for the use of the lake waters for any projects or activities in or affecting
the said lake including navigation, construction, and operation of fishpens, fish enclosures, fish corrals and the like,
and to impose necessary safeguards for lake quality control and management and to collect necessary fees for said
activities and projects: Provided, That the fees collected for fisheries may be shared between the Authority and other
government agencies and political sub-divisions in such proportion as may be determined by the President of the
Philippine upon recommendation of the Authority's Board: Provided, further, That the Authority's Board may
determine new areas of fisheries development or activities which it may place under the supervision of the Bureau
of Fisheries and Aquatic taking into account the overall development plans and programs for Laguna de Bay and
related bodies of water: Provided, finally, That the Authority shall subject to the approval of the President of the
Philippines promulgate such rules and regulations which shall govern fisheries development activities in Laguna de
Bay which shall take into consideration among others the following: socioeconomic amelioration of bonafide resident
fisherman whether individually or collectively in the form of cooperatives, lakeshore town development, a master
plan for fishpen construction and operation, communal fishing ground for lakeshore town residents, and preference
to lakeshore town residents in hiring laborers for fishery projects.
(l) To require the cities and municipalities embraced within the region to pass appropriate zoning ordinances and
other regulatory measures necessary to carry out the objectives of the Authority and enforce the same with the
assistance of the Authority.
(m) The provisions of existing laws to the contrary notwithstanding, to exercise water rights over public waters within
the Laguna de Bay region whenever necessary to carry out the Authority's projects;
(n) To act in coordination with existing governmental agencies in establishing water quality standards for industrial,
agricultural and municipal waste discharges into the lake and to cooperate with said existing agencies of the
government of the Philippines in enforcing such standards, or to separately pursue enforcement and penalty actions
as provided for in Section 4(d) and Section 39-A of this Act: Provided, That in case of conflict on the appropriate
water quality standard to be enforced such conflict shall be resolved thru the NEDA Board;
(o) To develop water supply from ground and/or lake water resources for municipal, agricultural and industrial
usages, in coordination with the National Water Resources Council created by Presidential Decree No. 424 dated
March 28, 1974 or its successors in interests, and to enter into agreements with municipalities, governmental
agencies and corporations and the private sector to supply, distribute and market such water;
(p) Undertake studies on the improvement and maintenance of the desirable lake water quality of Laguna de Bay,
and in pursuance thereof, prepare a water quality management program on a continuing basis, subject to the
approval of the NEDA, which the Authority shall carry out with the assistance and support of all national and local
government units involved in water quality management.
Sec. 4-A. Compensation for damages to the water and aquatic resources of Laguna de Bay and its tributaries
resulting from failure to meet established water and effluent quality standards or from such other wrongful act or

omission of a person, private or public, juridical or otherwise, punishable under the law shall be awarded to the
Authority to be earmarked for water quality control and management.
Sec. 4-B. The Authority is hereby empowered to collect annual fees as provided for in Sec. 4-J herein, for the use of
the lake waters and its tributaries for all beneficial purposes including recreation, municipal, industrial, agricultural,
fisheries, navigation and waste disposal purposes. All the fees so collected shall be used for the management and
development of the lake and its watershed areas: Provided, That the rates of the fees to be collected shall be
subject to the approval of the President of the Philippines.
CHAPTER III
CORPORATE POWERS
Sec. 5. The powers of the Authority. The Authority shall have the following powers and functions:
a) To succeed on its corporate name;
b) To sue and be sued in such corporate name;
c) To adopt, alter and use a corporate seal;
d) To adopt, amend, and repeals its by-laws;
e) To enter into contracts of any kind and description, to enable it to carry out its purposes and functions under this
Act;
f) To acquire, buy, purchase, hold or lease, such personal and real property as it deems necessary or convenient in
the transaction of its business and/or in relation with carrying out its purposes under this Act; and to lease,
mortgage, sell, alienate, or otherwise encumber, utilize, exploit or dispose any such personal and real property held
by it, subject to prior or existing individual or communal right of private parties or of the government or any agency
or enterprise thereof.
g) To exercise the right of eminent domain whenever the Authority deems it necessary for the attainment of the
objectives of the Authority under this Act;
h) To borrow funds from any local or foreign financial institutions independent of the bonds it may issue or may
continue to issue, to carry out the purposes of this Authority under this Act;
i) To purchase, hold, alienate, mortgage, pledge or otherwise dispose of the shares of the capital stock of, or any
bond, securities, or other evidence of indebtedness created by any other corporation, co-partnership, or government
agencies or instrumentalities; and while the owner of said stock to exercise all the rights or ownership, including the
right to vote thereon; Provided, That the Authority shall not invest its funds in any highly risky debt instruments
issued without recourse to commercial banks or investment houses as well as in any highly speculative stocks.
j) For carrying on its business, or for the purpose of attaining or furthering any of its objectives, to perform any and
all acts which a corporation, co-partnership, or natural person is authorized to perform under the laws now existing
or which may be enacted hereafter.
k) To issue such rules and regulations as may be necessary to effectively carry out the powers and purposes herein
provided including the plans, programs and projects of the Authority, subject to the approval of the NEDA, the same
to take effect thirty (30) days after publication thereof, in a newspaper of general circulation.
Sec. 6. Capitalization and Financing. The Authority shall have an authorized capital of One Hundred Million Pesos
(P100,000,000) of which the amount of Fifty-One Million Pesos (P51,000,000) shall be subscribed by the national
government and Forty-Nine Million Pesos (P49,000,000) shall be subscribed by cities, provinces, municipalities,
government corporations and private investors; Provided, That at least twenty-five percent of the national

government's subscription shall be fully paid: Provided, further, That the authorized capital stock may be increased
upon the recommendation of NEDA.
The authorized capital stock of One Hundred Million pesos (P100M) shall be divided into One Million (1,000,000)
Shares of stock with a par value of One hundred Pesos (P100) per share.
The shares of stock of the Authority shall be divided into (1) 700,000 common shares (voting) and (2) 300,000
preferred shares (non-voting) with such fixed rates of return as shall be determined by the Board. Of the common
shares of 700,000 a minimum of 400,000 shares shall be subscribed by the national government and at least sixty
per cent of the balance shall be subscribed by the Provinces of Laguna and Rizal in such proportion as may be
agreed upon by both provincial governments in accordance with their respective capacities. The remaining balance
of the common shares shall be open for subscription to cities, provinces, municipalities and private investors.
Of the preferred shares of stock of 300,000 a minimum of 110,000 shares shall be subscribed by the national
government. The balance of the preferred shares shall be available for subscription to cities, provinces,
municipalities, government corporations, and private investors; Provided, however, That preferred shares shall enjoy
preference with respect to distribution of dividends and assets in case of dissolution.
Sec. 7. Powers of Municipal Corporations to Subscribe. For purposes of attaining the purposes of this Authority,
municipalities, cities and provinces are hereby authorized to subscribe, own, buy and hold shares of stock of this
Authority.
Sec. 8. Operating Expenses. For the operating expenses of the Authority, the sum of One Million Pesos
(P1,000,000) is hereby appropriated annually for five (5) years from the general fund of the National Government
not otherwise appropriated from the date of approval of this Decree.
The Board of Directors may appropriate out of the funds of the Authority such as may be needed or necessary for its
operating expenses.
Sec. 9. Power to Incur Debts and to Issue Bonds. Whenever the Board of Directors may deem it necessary for the
Authority to incur an indebtedness or to issue bonds to carry out the provisions of this Act, it shall by resolution so
declare and state the purpose for which the proposed debt is to be incurred. The resolution shall be confirmed by
the affirmative vote of the stockholders representing a majority of the subscribed capital stock outstanding and
entitled to vote.
The Authority shall submit to the NEDA Board and the Monetary Board of the Central Bank for approval its proposal
to incur indebtedness or to issue bonds, This shall be considered authorized upon approval of the President of the
Philippines.
Sec. 10. Bond Limit. The bonds shall be issued in such amounts as will be needed at any one time, taking into
account the rate at which said bonds may be absorbed by the buying public and the fund requirements of projects
ready for execution, and considering further a proper balanced productive and non-productive projects so that
inflation shall be held to the minimum.
Sec. 11. Form, rates of interest, etc. of bonds. The Board of Directors, shall prescribe the form, the rates of interest,
the denominations, maturities, negotiability, convertibility, call and redemption features, and all other terms and
conditions of issuance, placement, sale, servicing, redemption, and payment of all bonds issued by the Authority
under this Act.
The bonds issued by virtue of this Act may be made payable both as to principal and interest in Philippine currency
or any readily convertible foreign currency; Said bonds shall be receivable as security in any transaction with the
government in which such security is required.
Sec. 12. Exemption from tax. The Authority shall be exempt from all taxes, licenses, fees, and duties, incidental to
its operations. This exemption shall extend to its subsidiary corporation: Provided, That its subsidiary corporations
shall be subject to all said taxes, licenses, fees, and duties five (5) years after their establishment under a graduated
scale as follows: twenty (20) per centum of all said taxes during the sixth year, forty (40) per centum of all said taxes

during the seventh year, sixty (60) per centum of all said taxes during the eighth year, eighty (80) per centum of all
said taxes during the ninth year, and one hundred (100) per centum of all taxes during the tenth year, after said
establishment. Such examination shall include any tax or fee imposed by the government on the sale, purchase or
transfer of foreign exchange. All notes, bonds, debentures and other obligations issued by the Authority shall be
exempt from all taxes both as to principal and interest, except inheritance and gift taxes.
Sec. 13. Sinking Fund. A sinking fund shall be established in such manner that the total annual contribution thereto
accrued at such rate of interest as may be determined by the Board of Directors as confirmed by the stockholders
representing a majority of the subscribed capital stock outstanding and entitled to vote, shall be sufficient to redeem
at maturity the bonds issued under this Act.
Such funds shall be under the custody of the treasurer of the Authority who shall invest the same in such manner as
the Board of Directors may direct; charge all expenses of investment to said sinking fund, and credit the same with
the interest on investment and other income belonging to it.
Sec. 14. Guarantee by the government. The Republic of the Philippines hereby guarantees the payment by the
Authority of both the principal and the interest of the bonds, debentures, collaterals, notes or such other obligations
issued by the Authority by virtue of this Act, and shall pay such principal and interest in the event that the Authority
fails to do so. In case the Authority shall be unable to pay the said principal and interest, the Secretary of Finance
shall pay the amount thereof which is hereby appropriated out of any funds in the National Treasury not otherwise
appropriated, and thereupon, to the extent of the amounts so paid, the Government of the Republic of the Philippine
shall succeed to all rights of the holders of such bonds, debentures, collaterals, notes or other obligations, unless
the sum so paid by the Republic of the Philippines shall be refunded by the Authority within a reasonable time.
CHAPTER V
MANAGEMENT AND PERSONNEL
Sec. 15. Incorporation. The members of the first Board of Directors shall be elected by the stockholders and the
incorporation shall be held to have been effected from the date of the first meeting of such Board.
Sec. 16. Board of Directors: Composition. The corporate powers shall be vested in and exercised by a Board of
Directors, hereinafter referred to as the Board, which shall be composed of eight (8) members, to wit: the Executive
Secretary, the Secretary of Economic Planning, the Secretary of Natural Resources, the Secretary of Industry, a
representative of Laguna Province, who shall be designated by the Provincial Board of Laguna; a representative of
Rizal Province to be designated by its Provincial Board; the General Manager of the Authority to be appointed by the
President of the Philippines, and a representative of the private investors, likewise to be appointed by the President
of the Philippines from among a list of recommendees to be submitted by the private investors: Provided, That the
incumbent representative of the private investors: shall continue as member until the President appoints his
successor. The Board of Directors shall elect annually from among their members a Chairman and a Vice Chairman.
There shall be a Corporate Secretary who shall be appointed the Board.
The officials next in rank to the above-mentioned member shall serve as permanent alternate members and shall
attend meetings of the Board in the absence of their principals and receive the corresponding per diems.
Sec. 17. Acting Chairman. In case of vacancy in the position of Chairman, or in the absence of or temporary
incapacity of the Chairman, the Vice-Chairman shall act as such until a new Chairman is duly elected by the Board.
Sec. 18. (This provision were repealed by PD 813, Section 19, promulgated on October 17, 1975.)
Sec. 19. (This provision were repealed by PD 813, Section 19, promulgated on October 17, 1975.)
Sec. 20. Effect of vacancies; quorum. Vacancies in the Board as long as there shall be four members in office, shall
not impair the powers of the Board to execute the functions of the Authority. The affirmative vote of four (4) members
of the Board shall be necessary at all times to pass or approve any act or resolution.

Sec. 21. Qualifications of Directors. All members of the Board shall be citizens and residents of the Philippines. They
shall have demonstrated executive competence and experience in the field of public administration, economic
planning, resource management, or in the establishment and management of large agricultural, industrial or
commercial enterprises. No person shall be nominated as member of the Board unless he be of unquestioned
integrity and competence.
Sec. 22. Prohibition against "Conflict of Interest." No person member of the Board shall be financially interested,
directly or indirectly, in any contract entered into by the Authority or in any special privileges granted by the Authority
during his term of office. All contracts entered into in violation of this provision shall automatically be null and void.
Any member of the Board found violating the provisions of this section by two-thirds (2/3) vote of the Board shall
automatically be disqualified from serving his unexpired term, and he shall furthermore be perpetually disqualified
for membership in the said Board.
Sec. 23. Removal, courtesy resignation. A member of the Board may be removed from office by a vote of the
stockholders holding or representing three-fourths (3/4) of the subscribed capital stock outstanding and entitled to
vote. No member of the Board shall be required to submit a courtesy resignation at any time during his term of
office.
Sec. 24. Board Meetings. The Board shall meet at least once a month. The Board shall be convoked by the
Chairman or upon written request signed by a majority of the members.
Sec. 25. Per Diems and Allowances. The members of the Board shall receive for every meeting attended a per diem
to be determined by the Board: Provided, That in no case will the total amount received by each exceed the sum of
One Thousand Pesos (P1,000.00) for any one month. Members of the Board shall be entitled to commutable
transportation and representation allowances in the performance of official functions for the Authority as authorized
by the Board the aggregate amount of which shall not exceed One Thousand Pesos (P1,000.00) for any one month.
Sec. 25-A. Powers and Functions of the Board of Directors.
a. To formulate, prescribe, amend and repeal rules and regulations to govern the conduct of business of the
Authority;
b. To appoint and fix the compensation of all officials from division heads and above, and others of comparable rank
including the Assistant General Manager upon the recommendation of the General Manager;
c. By a majority vote of all members of the Board, to suspend, remove or otherwise discipline for just cause all
officials appointed by the Board;
d. To approve the annual and/or supplemental budgets of the Authority; and
e. To do such other acts and perform such other functions as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this
Charter.
Sec. 26. Powers and Functions of the General Manager. The General Manager shall be the chief executive of the
Authority. As such, he shall have the following powers and duties:
a. Submit for consideration of the Board the policies and measures which he believes to be necessary to carry out
the purposes and provisions of this Act;
b. Execute and administer the policies, plans, programs and projects approved by the Board;
c. Direct and supervise the operation and internal administration of the Authority. The General Manager may
delegate certain of his administrative responsibilities to other officers of the Authority subject to the rules and
regulations of the Board.

d. Appoint officials and employees below the rank of division heads to positions in the approved budget upon written
recommendation of the division head concerned using as guide the standard set forth in the Authority's merit
system;
e. Submit quarterly reports to the Board on personnel selection, placement and training;
f. Submit to the NEDA an annual report and such other reports as may be required, including the details of the
annual and supplemental budgets of the Authority, and
g. Perform such other functions as may be provided by law.
Sec. 27. (This provision were repealed by PD 813, Section 18, promulgated on October 17, 1975.)
Sec. 28. (This provision were repealed by PD 813, Section 19, promulgated on October 17, 1975.)
Sec. 29. Compensation. The General Manager shall receive a compensation of at least Thirty-Six Thousand Pesos
(P36,000.00) per annum which shall be charged against the annual appropriation of the Authority for operating
expenses. The Board of Directors may provide per diems and allowances for the General Manager.
Sec. 30. Residence. The General Manager shall establish his residence within the region. The General Manager
shall not, during his term of office, engage in any business or profession or calling other than those connected in the
performance of his official duties as General Manager of the Authority.
Sec. 31. Activities of the Authority: Key Officials. In carrying out the activities of the Authority, the General Manager
shall be assisted by an Assistant General Manager who shall have such powers, duties, and functions that may be
delegated to him by the General Manager, and shall act as General Manager in the absence of or during the
temporary incapacity of and/or until such time as a new General Manager is duly appointed.
The Authority shall have the following divisions under the direct supervision and control of the General Manager;
a. An Administrative Division which shall be responsible for providing services relating to personnel, training,
information, records, supplies general services, equipment and security;
b. A legal Division, to be headed by a Legal Counsel who shall represent the Authority in legal actions and
proceedings. This division shall be responsible for providing staff advice and assistance on legal matters;
c. A Finance Division which shall be responsible for providing staff advice and assistance on budgetary and financial
matters, and safekeeping of corporate assets;
d. A Project Management Division which shall be responsible for the operation of approved projects, project
evaluation and management improvement matters;
e. A Planning and Project development Division which shall be responsible for providing services relating to
planning, programming, statistics and project development; and
f. An Engineering and Construction Division which shall be responsible for providing services relating to detailed
engineering plans and the construction and maintenance of project facilities.
The business and activities of each of these divisions shall be directed by an officer to be known as its division
head.
The Board may create such other divisions and positions as may be deemed necessary for the efficient, economical
and effective conduct of the activities of the Authority.
Sec. 32. Merit and Compensation System. All officials, agents and employees of the Authority shall be selected and
appointed on the basis of merit and fitness in accordance with a comprehensive and progressive merit system to be

established by the Authority. The recruitment, transfer, promotion and dismissal of all personnel of the authority,
including temporary workers, shall be governed by such merit system: Provided, That the regular professional and
technical personnel of the Authority shall be exempt from the coverage of the classification and compensation plans
of the WAPCO and Civil Service rules and regulations: Provided, however, That such personnel shall be permanent
instates and shall be entitled to the benefits and privileges normally accorded to government employees, such as
retirement, GSIS insurance, leave and similar matters: Provided, further, That the Director General of the NEDA
shall review and recommend the approval of the staffing pattern for professional and technical personnel of the
Authority including modifications thereof as may be necessary for five years from the date of approval of this
Decree.
Sec. 33. (This provision were repealed by PD 813, Section 23, promulgated on October 17, 1975.)
Sec. 34. (This provision were repealed by PD 813, Section 24, promulgated on October 17, 1975.)
Sec. 34-A. Supervision by the NEDA. The Authority shall be directly under the NEDA for policy and program
integration.
Sec. 34-B. Submission of Financial Statement to NEDA. The Authority shall submit audited financial statements to
NEDA within 60 days after the close of the fiscal year, and it shall continue to operate on the basis of not more than
the preceding year's budget until the said financial statements shall have been submitted.
Sec. 34-C. Management Audit by the NEDA. The NEDA, may, at its own instance, initiate a management audit of
the Authority when there is a reasonable ground to believe that the affairs of the Authority have been mismanaged.
Should such audit indicate mismanagement, the NEDA shall take such appropriate measures as may be required by
circumstances.
Sec. 35. Minimum Wage. All contracts entered into by the Authority which require the employment of persons shall
contain provision that not less than the minimum wage fixed by law shall be paid to such persons so employed.
Sec. 36. Plans to be formulated within one year. Upon its organization, the Board of Directors shall formulate and
report to the stockholders with the utmost expeditious manner, but in no case longer than one year, its plans and
recommendations for the accelerated and balanced development of the region in accordance with the aims and
purposes of this Act.
Sec. 37. Supplies and services other than personnel. All purchases of supplies or contracts for services, except for
personnel services, entered into by the Authority shall be done only after the proper bidding is held. Bidding shall not
be required when: (1) the amount involved is five thousand pesos (P5,000.00) or less; (2) an emergency, as certified
to by the General Manager, requires immediate delivery of the supplies or performance of the
services: Provided,That in comparing bids and making awards, the Authority shall consider such factors as the cost
and relative quality and adaptability of supplies or services; the bidders' financial responsibility, skill, experience,
integrity, and ability to furnish repairs and maintenance services; the time of delivery or performance offered; and the
compliance with the specifications desired.
Sec. 38. Auditing. The Board of Directors shall provide and appoint an auditor who shall formulate an auditing
system for the Authority. The auditor shall make a semestral and/or annual report covering the financial conditions
and operation of the Authority to the Board. These auditing reports shall contain a statement of the resources and
liabilities, including earnings and expenses, the amount of paid-up capital stock, surplus, reserves, and profits, as
well as losses, bad debts and such other facts which, under auditing rules and regulations, are considered
necessary to accurately described the financial conditions and operation of the Authority. The auditor shall report
and directly responsible to the Board.
Sec. 39.
Sec. 39-A. Penal and Civil Liability Clause. Any person, natural or juridical, who shall violate any of the provisions of
this Act or any rules or regulation promulgated by the Authority pursuant thereto shall be liable to imprisonment of
not exceeding three years or to a fine not exceeding Five Thousand Pesos or both at the discretion of the Court.

If the violator be a corporation, partnership or association, the officer or officers of the organization concerned shall
be liable therefor.
The authority is hereby authorized to pursue separate civil actions for damages resulting from infractions of the
provisions of this Act, rules or regulations issued pursuant thereto and/or conditions embodied in the clearances or
permits issued by the Authority.
Sec. 40. Separability Clause. The provisions of this Act are hereby declared to be separable, and in the event any
one or more such provisions are held unconstitutional, they shall not affect the validity of other provisions.
Sec. 40-A. Transitory Provision. When the Regional Development Council for the region becomes operational, the
socio-economic planning functions as envisioned under this Charter shall be assumed by the aforementioned
Regional Development Council in accordance with the provisions of the Integrated Reorganization Plan, as
amended. All incumbent officials and employees shall continue in office and those qualified shall have preference in
filling up new positions that may be created as consequence of this Decree.
Sec. 41. Definition of Terms.
1) Act Whenever used in this Act, shall refer to the enabling Act creating the Laguna Lake Development Authority;
2) Authority Whenever cited in this Act shall mean the Laguna Lake Development Authority;
3) Board The word Board shall always refer to the Board of Directors of the Laguna Lake Development Authority;
4) Region The word Region in this connection mean the Laguna Lake area proper comprising the provinces of Rizal
and Laguna and the cities of San Pablo, Manila, Pasay, Quezon and Caloocan;
5) Government instrumentalities or agencies or entities. Whenever used in this Act shall means instruments of the
national or local governments vested with powers to accomplish a definite government aim or purpose;
6) Municipal Corporation. Whenever used in this Act shall mean one that is organized for political purposes with
political powers exercised for the good of the public, subject to legislative control and with officers of the government
as its members to administer or discharge public duties;
7) Government Corporation. Whenever used shall refer to corporations engaged in performing functions impressed
with public interest;
8) Investor With regards to this Act, investors shall include public and private investors whether foreign or local;
9) External Auditor. Shall mean a firm or a person hired outside the Authority or agency to audit the books of
accounts of another corporation or agency; examine financial records, prepare audit reports on findings in the
operation of the agency; review the statement on the performance report of the Authority.
10) Subsidiary Corporation. A corporation that is organized or a corporation already in existence wherein at least
fifty-one per cent of its shares of stock are owned or controlled by the organizing or subscribing Authority, in this
case, the Laguna Lake Development Authority, to carry out or accomplish its purposes.
11) Laguna Lake or Lake. Whenever Laguna Lake or lake is used in this Act, the same shall refer to Laguna de Bay
which is that area covered by the lake water when it is at the average annual maximum lake level of elevation 12.50
meters, as referred to a datum 10.00 meters below mean lower low water (M.L.L.W.). Lands located at and below
such elevation are public lands which form part of the bed of said lake.
Sec. 42. Laws repealed. All Acts, charters, executive orders, administrative orders, proclamations, rules and
regulations, or parts thereof in conflict with this Act are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.
Sec. 43. Effectivity. This Act shall take effect upon its approval.

Approved: July 18, 1966.

Blue Laws Enforcement Agencies

BFAR
Section 65. Functions of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources. - As a line bureau, the BFAR shall
have the following functions:
(a) prepare and implement a Comprehensive National Fisheries Industry Development Plan;
(b) issue licenses for the operation of commercial fishing vessels;
(c) issue identification cards free of charge to fishworkers engaged in commercial fishing;
(d) monitor and review joint fishing agreements between Filipino citizens and foreigners who conduct fishing
activities in international waters, and ensure that such agreements are not contrary to Philippine
commitment under international treaties and convention on fishing in the high seas;
(e) formulate and implement a Comprehensive Fishery Research and Development Program, such as, but
not limited to, sea farming, sea ranching, tropical/ornamental fish and seaweed culture, aimed at increasing
resource productivity, improving resource use efficiency, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the
country's fishery and aquatic resources;
(f) establish and maintain a Comprehensive Fishery Information System;
(g) provide extensive development support services in all aspects of fisheries production, processing and
marketing;
(h) provide advisory services and technical assistance on the improvement of quality of fish from the time it
is caught (i.e. on board fishing vessel, at landing areas, fish markets, to the processing plants and to the
distribution and marketing chain);

(i) coordinate efforts relating to fishery production undertaken by the primary fishery producers, LGUs,
FARMCs, fishery and organizations/cooperatives;
(j) advise and coordinate with LGUs on the maintenance of proper sanitation and hygienic practices in fish
markets and fish landing areas;
(k) establish a corps of specialists in collaboration with the Department of National Defense, Department of
the Interior and Local Government, Department of Foreign Affairs for the efficient monitoring, control and
surveillance of fishing activities within Philippine territorial waters and provide the necessary facilities,
equipment and training therefor;
(l) implement an inspection system for import and export of fishery/aquatic products and fish processing
establishments, consistent with international standards to ensure product quality and safety;
(m) coordinate with LGUs and other concerned agencies for the establishment of productivity enhancing and
market development programs in fishing communities to enable women to engage in other
fisheries/economic activities and contribute significantly to development efforts;
(n) enforce all laws, formulate and enforce all rules and regulations governing the conservation and
management of fishery resources, except in municipal waters, and to settle conflicts of resource use and
allocation in consultation with the NFARMC, LGUs and local FARMCs;
(o) develop value-added fishery-products for domestic consumption and export;

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(p) recommend measures for the protection/enhancement of the fishery industries;

(q) assist the LGUs in developing their technical capability in the development, management, regulation,
conservation, and protection of the fishery resources;
(r) formulate rules and regulations for the conservation and management of straddling fish stocks and highly
migratory fish stocks; and
(s) perform such other related functions which shall promote the development, conservation, management,
protection and utilization of fisheries and aquatic resources.
PHILIPPINE COAST GUARD

Section 3. Powers and Functions. - The PCG shall have the following powers and functions:
(a) To enforce regulations in accordance with all relevant maritime international conventions, treaties or
instruments and national laws for the promotion of safety of life property at sea within the maritime
jurisdiction of the Philippines and conduct port state control implementation;
(b) To inspections on all merchant ships and vessels, including but shall not be limited to inspections prior to
departure, to ensure and enforce compliance with safety standards, rules and regulations;
(c) To detain, stop or prevent a ship or vessel which does not comply with safety standards, rules and
regulations from sailing or leaving port;
(d) To conduct emergency readiness evaluation on merchant marine vessels;
(e) Subject to the approval of the Secretary of the DOTC, to issue and enforce rules and regulation for the
promotion of safety and life and property at sea on all maritime-related activities;

(f) To coordinate, develop, establish, maintain and operate aids to navigation, vessel traffic system, maritime
communications and search and rescue facilities within the maritime jurisdiction of the Philippines;
(g) To remove, destroy or low to port, sunken or floating hazards to navigation, including illegal fish and
vessels, at or close to sea lanes which may cause hazards to the marine environment;
(h) To issue permits for the salvage of vessels and to supervise all marine salvage operations, as well as
prescribe and enforce rules and regulations governing the same;
(i) To render aid to persons and vessels in distress and conduct search rescue in marine accidents within the
maritime jurisdiction of the Philippines, including the high seas, in accordance with applicable international
conventions. In the performance of this function, the PCG may enlist the services of other government
agencies and the merchant marine fleet;
(j) To investigate the inquire into the causes of all maritime accidents involving death, casualties and
damage to properties;
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(l) To assist in the enforcement of laws on fisheries, immigration, tariff and customs, forestry, firearms and
explosives, human trafficking, dangerous drugs and controlled chemicals, transnational crimes and other
applicable laws within the maritime jurisdiction of the Philippines;
(m) To board and inspect all types of merchant ships and watercrafts in the performance of this functions;
(n) To enforce laws and promulgated and administer rules and regulations for the protection of marine
environment and resources from offshore sources or pollution within the maritime jurisdiction of the
Philippines;
(o) To develop oil spill response, containment and recovery capabilities against ship-based pollution;
(p) To grant, within the capabilities and consistent with its mandate, requests for assistance of other
government agencies in the performance of their functions;
(q) To organize, train and supervise the PCG Auxiliary (PCGA) for the purpose of assisting the PCG in
carrying out its mandated functions; and
(r) To perform such other functions that may be necessary in the attainment of the objectives of this Act.