Directing the National Coordinating Committee Implementing Presidential Memorandum Order No. 516 as Amended, to Administer and Manage the Kapai Settlement/integration Project in Lanao Del Sur

Case Overview and Summary

Summary of Executive Order No. 531

Establishment of Kapai Settlement/Integration Project in Lanao del Sur
- Proclamation No. 1798-a reserved 5,500 hectares of public land in Kapai, Lanao del Sur for settlement purposes. (Section 1)
- The National Coordinating Committee (NCC) implementing Presidential Memorandum Order No. 516 as amended, is directed to administer and manage the settlement/integration project. (Section 1)
- The project aims to resettle rebel returnees from the North Mindanao Revolutionary Command, mustered-out military personnel, evacuees, and other needy persons affected by the conflict in Southern Philippines. (Section 3)

Powers and Responsibilities of the NCC
- Plan, organize, administer, and manage the settlement/integration project. (Section 1)
- Call upon any government agency for assistance in developing the settlement area. (Section 2a)
- Harvest existing timber stands in the settlement area, subject to forestry laws and regulations, and use the proceeds for the development of the settlement and operational expenses. The NCC may obtain the necessary timber license. (Section 2b)
- Disburse funds subject to government auditing and accounting requirements for the development of the area and administrative expenses. (Section 2c)
- Propose and request for appropriations and/or allotment of funds necessary for the development of the area. (Section 2d)
- Process and screen settler-applicants based on their qualifications in accordance with existing laws, rules, and regulations. (Section 2e)
- The Chairman of the NCC shall sign all requests or approvals for release and disbursement of funds and contracts on behalf of the NCC. (Section 3)
- All funds appropriated, previously released, or earmarked for the development of the Kapai settlement/integration project are transferred to the NCC. The NCC is authorized to reprogram the allocation of said funds. (Section 4)
- The NCC shall submit a quarterly report to the President on the accomplishments, expenditures, problems, and solutions in the development of the area. (Section 5)

Repealing Clause
- Any provision of Proclamation No. 1798-A that is inconsistent or conflicts with this Order is repealed, modified, or amended accordingly. (Section 6)