philippines: Malacañang believes the government cannot demand from the US Navy more than the $1.4m fine provided under the law for the damage caused on Tubbataha Reef.
In a press briefing, presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda said: “Based on that formula provided in the law itself and based on the area that was damaged by the USS Guardian, that became the basis of the computation for that.”
Lacierda sees no reason to question the assessment of the Tubbataha Management Office.
“That was done in conjunction with the Philippine Navy,” he said. “That’s the law… The agency in-charge of Tubbataha Reef was the one issued the fine.”
They are not aware yet as to the procedure to collect the fines imposed, Lacierda said.
Jamby Madrigal, a principal author of Republic Act 10067 or the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park Act of 2009, said the government should have imposed higher penalties on the US Navy. “While there is a set formula for computing damage under the law, I believe the Philippine government should impose more by way of exemplary damages.” Madrigal said. The fine imposed on the US Navy is based on RA 10067.
THE PHILIPPINE STAR
