PD 1586
PD 1586
PD 1586
fulfill the social, economic and other requirements of present and future
generations of Filipinos; and (c) to ensure the attainment of an environmental
quality that is conducive to a life of dignity and well-being.
SEC. 2. Goal. In pursuing this policy, it shall be the responsibility of the
government, in cooperation with concerned private organizations and
entities, to use all practicable means, consistent with other essential
considerations of national policy, in promoting the general welfare to the end
that the nation may (a) recognize, discharge and fulfill the responsibilities of
each generation as trustee and guardian of the environment for succeeding
generations; (b) assure the people of a safe, decent, healthful, productive and
aesthetic environment; (c) encourage the widest exploitation of the
environment without degrading it, or endangering human life, health and
safety or creating conditions adverse to agriculture, commerce and industry;
(d) preserve important historic and cultural aspects of the Philippine heritage;
(e) attain a rational and orderly balance between population and resource
use; and (f) improve the utilization of renewable and non-renewable
resources.
SEC. 3. Right to a Healthy Environment. In furtherance of these goals
and policies, the Government recognizes the right of the people to a healthful
environment. It shall be the duty and responsibility of each individual to
contribute to the preservation and enhancement of the Philippine
environment.
SEC. 4. Environmental Impact Statements. Pursuant to the above
enunciated policies and goals, all agencies and instrumentalities of the
national government, including government-owned or controlled
corporations, as well as private corporations, firms and entities shall prepare,
file and include in every action, project or undertaking which significantly
affects the quality of the environment a detail statement on:
1. (a) the environmental impact of the proposed action, project or
undertaking;
2. (b) any adverse environmental effect which cannot be avoided should
the proposal be implemented;
3. (c) alternative to the proposed action;
4. (d) a determination that the short-term uses of the resources of the
environment are consistent with the maintenance and enhancement of
the long-term productivity of the same; and
5. (e) whenever a proposal involves the use of depletable or nonrenewable resources, a finding must be made that such use and
commitment are warranted.
Before an environmental impact statement is issued by a lead agency, all
agencies having jurisdiction over, or special expertise on, the subject matter
involved shall comment on the draft environmental impact statement made
by the lead agency within 30 days from receipt of the same.
SEC. 5. Agency Guidelines. The different agencies charged with
environmental protection as enumerated in Letter of Instruction No. 422 shall,
within 60 days from the effectivity of this Decree, submit to the National
Environmental Protection Council (NEPC), their respective guidelines, rules
and regulations to carry out the provisions of Section 4 hereof on
environmental impact assessments and statements.