RMC No. 63-2021: Circularizes RA No. 115171, titled “An Act Authorizing the President to Expedite the Processing and Issuance of National and Local Permits, Licenses and Certifications in Times of National Emergency”

Summary

RMC No. 63-2021 circularizes RA No. 115171, which authorizes the President to speed up the processing and issuance of national and local permits, licenses and certifications in times of national emergency.

Key points

1. Presidential authority. In a national emergency, the President may accelerate and streamline processes for new and pending applications and renewals, including fixing or shortening periods. The President may also suspend or waive requirements, and, with the affected agencies, make the streamlined rules permanent.
2. Environmental limit. This authority may not be used to undermine existing procedures that protect the environment, especially those safeguarding protected areas, their buffer zones and environmentally critical areas.
3. Action against officials. The President may suspend or remove any government official or employee who acts contrary to these provisions, consistent with Article VII, Sections 1 and 17 of the Constitution and other laws.

Who is affected

• National and local government agencies issuing permits, licenses and certifications

Deadlines and effectivity

• Applies in times of national emergency

Summary by Tax Resources PH. It is not a substitute for the full text of the issuance or professional advice.