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G O V E R N A N C E
Figure 8. Number of apprehensions for mining and quarrying violations
from 1996–2007.
Source: PG-ENRO, 1996–2007.
Implication and Recommendations
Better enforcement with respect to fishery- related violations
was evident from the decrease in the number of cases
filed. Similarly, the increased number of apprehensions and
revenue from fines on mining and quarrying violations also
indicate improved enforcement. However, the effectiveness
of enforcement cannot be assessed with respect to
pollution-related violations. The local government has the
authority to enforce fishery- and mining-related legislation,
while the national government enforces legislation on
pollution. Investigations conducted by the local government
in response to pollution-related complaints are forwarded
to the national government for further action. Upon the
turnover of inspection reports and recommendations to the
concerned national government agency (DENR), there is no
systematic approach for monitoring the status of the legal
case.
It is important to adopt a systematic approach of recording
and monitoring enforcement data through time as basis
for assessment of enforcement effectiveness and input to
planning. An improved reporting system, such as submission
of the apprehensions report of Bantay Dagat to BFAR for
monitoring, enforcement and litigation, would streamline the
legal process. The establishment of an enforcement network
in the province with the PG-ENRO as Secretariat, could
also serve a purpose as the repository of information on
apprehensions, and facilitator of information sharing across
levels of government and enforcement authorities.
Institutionalization of Bantay Dagat at the municipal LGUs
and the provision of incentives for members may also
be considered as a positive and cost-effective means to
improve local enforcement.
Legislation
Environmental cases filed/resolved
References
Gutierrez, JS. 2007. Verde Passage Marine Biodiversity Conservation Corridor Enforcement Strategy. CI-Philippines.
Municipal survey for SOC. May 2008.
Municipal Questionnaires. March 2008.
PG-ENRO. 1996-2007. Annual Accomplishment Reports.
Trono and Gutierrez. 2007. Verde Passage Enforcement Strategy presented at the Sulu-Sulawesi Seascape
Congress 2007. CI-Philippines.
State of the Coasts of Batangas Province
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