AN ACT DECLARING THE ATULAYAN ISLAND OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF SAGÑAY

Case Overview and Summary

Summary of Republic Act No. 9444

Declaration of Atulayan Island as a Tourism Zone
- Section 1 declares Atulayan Island of the Municipality of Sagñay, Province of Camarines Sur as a National Tourism Zone.

Governing Principles for Tourism Zone Development
- Section 2 outlines the following principles until a comprehensive tourism legislation is adopted:
    - The Department of Tourism (DOT), its attached agencies, and the Partido Development Administration (PDA) shall coordinate in formulating a tourism development plan for the zone, consistent with the DOT's national tourism master plan. (Section 2a)
    - The plan shall protect and enhance the natural features and cultural heritage of the tourism zone while providing sustainable economic opportunities for the local community. (Section 2b)
    - The PDA and relevant municipalities shall utilize their powers under Republic Act No. 7820 and the Local Government Code to implement and enforce the tourism development plan. (Section 2c)
    - The DOT and its attached agencies may provide technical and financial assistance for tourism infrastructure and skills development, and promote the tourism zone locally and internationally when practicable. (Section 2d)
    - The DOT, PDA, and relevant municipalities shall create a forum for interaction between the private sector, NGOs, and other interest groups to encourage investment and develop a culture of tourism. (Section 2e)

Implementation and Enforcement
- Section 3 authorizes the DOT, in consultation with the PDA and local government, to adopt rules and regulations and enter into agreements to implement the Act.

Effectivity
- Section 4 states that the Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication.