WRITTEN REPORT

NAME: Manlangit, Genry Angelo T. DATE: May 28, 2024

YR/CRS/SEC: 3 BSE - D (SCIENCE)

SCI ED 321 - ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

TOPIC: ENVIRONMENTAL POLITICS AND POLICY

Intended Learning Outcome/s:
 Explain sustainability in environmental economics, equity, politics and policy.
Topic Outline:
 Development of Environmental Policy
 Basic Concepts in Environmental Policy

Development of Environmental Policy

Public policy refers to the set of principles, rules, and guidelines that guide the
decision-making and actions of the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of
government in managing public affairs. It serves as a framework for addressing
societal issues, shaping government actions, and achieving desired outcomes for the
public.
The legislative branch is responsible for making laws and policies. Public
policy provides a roadmap for lawmakers to develop legislation that addresses various
social, economic, and political issues. It guides them in identifying problems,
conducting research, consulting stakeholders, and crafting solutions through the
legislative process. Public policy ensures that laws are aligned with the values, goals,
and needs of the society they serve.
The executive branch, headed by the government's executive leader (such as
the president or prime minister), is responsible for implementing and enforcing laws
and policies. Public policy serves as a guide for the executive branch to develop
strategies, programs, and initiatives that align with the objectives outlined in the
legislation. It provides direction on how to allocate resources, coordinate government
agencies, and execute policies effectively.
The judicial branch interprets and applies laws and policies in legal disputes.
Public policy plays a role in shaping judicial decisions by providing a framework for
judges to analyze and interpret laws in light of societal values and public interest. It
helps ensure consistency, fairness, and accountability in the application of laws and
policies.
 The legislative process is the series of steps undertaken by the legislative
body, such as Congress, to create, amend, or change laws in order to uphold the spirit
of the constitution and address the needs of the country. During this process, two main
types of documents are produced: bills and resolutions.

Bills serve as the foundation for creating new laws. They go through a
legislative process and become official laws when they are approved by both houses
of Congress and the President of the Philippines. However, there are certain scenarios
and procedures that can affect the fate of a bill.
Presidential Veto: The President has the power to veto a bill, which means rejecting
it and preventing it from becoming law. If the President vetoes a bill, it is sent back to
Congress with the reasons for the veto. However, the House of Representatives has
the authority to overturn a presidential veto by garnering a two-thirds vote. If two-thirds
of the members of the House vote to override the veto, the bill can still become law
despite the President's objection.

Presidential Inaction: If the President does not act on a proposed law submitted by
Congress, it will automatically become law after 30 days of receipt. This is known as
the "lapse into law" provision. If the President neither signs nor vetoes the bill within
the 30-day period, the bill is considered approved and becomes law without the
President's signature.

It is important to note that while bills require the approval of both houses of
Congress and the President to become law, the process can involve revisions,
amendments, and negotiations to ensure that the final version of the bill reflects the
interests and concerns of all stakeholders. The legislative process allows for debate,
discussion, and deliberation to shape the bill into a form that can effectively address
the needs and priorities of the country.

Resolutions play a crucial role in conveying principles and sentiments of either

the Senate or the House of Representatives. They are used to express the position,
opinion, or decision of the legislative body on a particular matter. Resolutions can be
categorized into three different elements: joint resolutions, concurrent resolutions, and
simple resolutions, each with its own characteristics and implications.

Joint resolutions require the approval of both chambers of Congress, the Senate and
the House of Representatives, and the signature of the President. Once approved,
joint resolutions have the force and effect of a law. This means that they carry the
same legal weight as a regular law and have the power to establish new policies or
regulations. Joint resolutions are typically used for significant matters that require the
agreement and support of both houses of Congress and the President.

Concurrent resolutions are used for matters that affect the operations or procedures
of both chambers of Congress. They must be approved in the same form by both the
Senate and the House of Representatives, but they are not transmitted to the
President for his signature. As a result, concurrent resolutions do not have the force
and effect of a law. However, they still hold significance as they represent the collective
opinion or decision of both houses of Congress. Concurrent resolutions are often used
to express support for specific causes, commemorate events, or establish internal
rules or procedures.

Simple resolutions deal with matters that are entirely within the prerogative of one
chamber of Congress, either the Senate or the House of Representatives. They are
not referred to the President for his signature and, therefore, do not have the force and
effect of a law. Simple resolutions are used to address internal matters, such as the
adoption of rules, appointment of committee members, or expressing the sense of the
chamber on a particular issue. While they do not have the same legal weight as joint
resolutions, simple resolutions still hold significance within the respective chamber of
Congress.

This infographic shows the process of how a bill becomes a law in the
Philippines. A bill can be proposed by the President, government agencies, private
citizens, or legislators. It is then filed with the House of Representatives or the Senate.
The bill goes through three readings and debate in both houses of Congress. If
approved in both houses, it is transmitted to the President for his signature. The
President can sign the bill into law, veto it, or let it lapse into law by not acting on it
within 30 days.
 Senate Committees and Jurisdictions
Committee on Climate Policies, programs, strategies, technologies, and
Change innovations addressing global warming and climate
change impacts.
Committee on Conservation and protection of the environment,
Environment and management, development, protection, exploration, and
Natural Resources utilization of national reserves such as forest and mineral
resources.
Committee on Tourism Matters relating to tourism and the tourist industry.

Committee of Science Matters relating to science and technology, including

and Technology scientific and technological research, development, and
advancement.

House Committees and Jurisdictions

Committee on Legislation concerning the conservation, protection, and
Ecology sustainable management of the environment
Committee on Legislation on climate change adaptation and mitigation,
Climate Change disaster risk reduction, and sustainable development
Committee on Legislation on the management, conservation, and
Natural Resources sustainable use of natural resources
Committee on Legislation on energy resources, exploration, development,
Energy and utilization
Committee on Legislation on climate change adaptation and mitigation,
Climate Change disaster risk reduction, and sustainable development

The table shows the jurisdictions of various committees in the Philippine Senate
and House of Representatives. The Senate Committee on Climate Change deals with
policies and programs related to climate change mitigation and adaptation. The
Senate Committee on Environment and Natural Resources oversees the conservation
and protection of the environment, as well as the management of natural resources
like forests and minerals. The Senate Committee on Tourism handles matters related
to tourism development and the tourist industry. Both the House and Senate have
Committees on Energy and Climate Change that handle legislation on energy
resources and climate change adaptation and mitigation.

The executive branch, led by the President, plays a vital role in enforcing
environmental laws and regulations. The Department of Environment and Natural
Resources (DENR) serves as the primary agency responsible for implementing
environmental legislation and overseeing environmental protection efforts nationwide.

The executive branch, through the DENR, is tasked with developing regulations
that outline the technical, operational, and legal aspects necessary for environmental
protection in the Philippines. These regulations cover various areas such as air and
water quality management, biodiversity conservation, waste management, and land
use planning. The DENR works to ensure that these regulations are effectively
implemented and enforced to safeguard the environment and promote sustainable
development.
 Additionally, the executive branch collaborates with other government
agencies, local government units, and stakeholders to address environmental
concerns and promote environmental sustainability. Through policy-making, planning,
and coordination, the executive branch strives to protect and preserve the country's
natural resources, mitigate environmental risks, and promote the well-being of both
present and future generations.

The organizational chart of the Department of Environment and Natural

Resources (DENR) in the Philippines. It shows the different offices and bureaus that
fall under the DENR secretary. These offices include the Environmental Management
Bureau, the Forest Management Bureau, and the Mines and Geosciences Bureau.
There are also regional offices throughout the country.

Environmental non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have played a

significant role in advocating for environmental issues and promoting sustainability.
They have been instrumental in raising awareness, mobilizing public support, and
pressuring the government and other stakeholders to address environmental
concerns.

Environmental NGOs in the Philippines benefit from tax laws that allow them to
incorporate as not-for-profit organizations. This status enables them to focus on their
mission of advancing environmental causes without the need to generate profits. As
not-for-profit organizations, they can receive tax-deductible contributions from
individuals and corporations, which helps sustain their operations and fund their
advocacy efforts.

NGOs in the Philippines also have the opportunity to engage in lobbying

activities. They can actively participate in the policy-making process by advocating for
the adoption of environmentally friendly laws, regulations, and policies. Through
lobbying, they can directly communicate their concerns and recommendations to
policymakers, aiming to influence decision-making in favor of environmental protection
and sustainability.
 Furthermore, environmental NGOs have the legal standing to stand in court and
sue on behalf of environmental interests in the Philippines. This means that they can
initiate legal actions against individuals, corporations, or government entities that
violate environmental laws or neglect their responsibilities. By taking legal action,
NGOs can hold accountable those who harm the environment and seek justice for
environmental damages or inadequate environmental protection measures.

Role in the development of environmental policy by seeking to influence

legislative and administrative actions on environmental issues. While the influence of
lobbying may vary compared to other countries, it remains an important practice in
shaping environmental policies in the Philippines.

Certain industries, such as oil and gas, have historically exerted strong
influence in the Philippine political landscape. Their lobbying efforts aim to shape
environmental policies and regulations that align with their business interests. This
influence can be seen in the interactions between industry representatives and
policymakers, where lobbying activities are used to advocate for policies that may
favor economic growth but may have environmental implications.

Lobbying in the Philippines involves significant financial investments to promote

specific causes and influence policy decisions. Lobbying organizations and industry
groups allocate substantial resources to support their advocacy efforts. These
resources may be used for activities such as hiring lobbyists, conducting research,
organizing campaigns, and engaging in public relations to sway public opinion and
gain support for their positions.

However, it is important to note that lobbying is not limited to industries alone.

Environmental advocacy groups and non-governmental organizations also engage in
lobbying activities to promote environmental protection and sustainable practices.
These organizations aim to influence policymakers and decision-makers to prioritize
environmental concerns and adopt policies that safeguard natural resources and
promote sustainable development.

Basic Concepts in Environmental Policy

Policy is a set of intentions and rules that outline acceptable behaviors or aim
to achieve specific objectives. It serves as a framework for decision-making and sets
agreed-upon limits for behavior. Environmental policy specifically focuses on
addressing environmental issues and aims to meet the needs of human health,
economic stability, and ecosystem health. In the past, these interests were seen as
conflicting, but there is now recognition that they overlap.

Environmental policy acknowledges that a healthy environment is essential for

human health and supports economic stability by providing resources and ecosystem
services. It takes a holistic approach, considering the interconnections between
human health, economic stability, and ecosystem health. Policies that promote
sustainable development, resource conservation, pollution control, and biodiversity
conservation are now recognized as essential for achieving long-term benefits for
society as a whole.

Basic principles guide the development of environmental policy, ensuring

that it is grounded in fundamental values and objectives. These principles help shape
policies that aim to protect the environment while considering the needs and rights of
individuals and society as a whole.

One fundamental principle is the protection of fundamental rights, including the

right to a safe and healthy environment. Environmental policy recognizes that every
individual has the right to live in a clean and sustainable environment. It seeks to
establish regulations and practices that safeguard this right by addressing
environmental issues such as pollution, habitat destruction, and resource depletion.

Another principle is fairness in policy-making, which involves considering the

interests of both the majority and minority. Environmental policies strive to strike a
balance between different stakeholders, ensuring that the voices and concerns of all
groups are taken into account. This principle promotes inclusivity, equity, and social
justice in environmental decision-making processes.

Cost-benefit analysis is a tool used in environmental policy to assess the

potential impacts and outcomes of different policy options. It involves comparing the
costs and benefits associated with implementing specific policies or regulations. This
analysis helps policymakers evaluate the economic, social, and environmental
implications of different approaches, enabling them to make informed decisions that
maximize the overall benefits and minimize potential negative consequences.

The corporate money influences policy is a complex and controversial

aspect of politics. Money, particularly from wealthy individuals and corporations, plays
a significant role in shaping political power and influencing policy decisions.

Wealthy individuals and corporations in the Philippines have the ability to exert
influence through financial contributions to political campaigns and parties. These
donations can provide access and favorability to politicians, allowing corporations to
shape policy discussions and decisions in their favor. By contributing substantial
amounts of money, corporations and wealthy individuals can gain the attention and
support of policymakers, potentially influencing the direction and content of policies.

Large donations are particularly essential for success in political campaigns in

the Philippines. Political campaigns require significant financial resources to run
advertisements, organize events, and mobilize supporters. Candidates who receive
substantial donations from corporations or wealthy individuals often have a financial
advantage, enabling them to reach a wider audience and effectively promote their
policy positions. This financial advantage can significantly impact the outcome of
elections and subsequently influence policy-making processes.

While the influence of corporate money on policy is a reality in the Philippines,

it is important to note that there are regulations and laws in place to promote
transparency and accountability. The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) regulates
campaign finance and sets limits on campaign contributions and expenditures.
Candidates and political parties are required to disclose their sources of funding and
expenditures to ensure transparency in the electoral process. However, concerns
about the influence of moneyed interests on policy decisions and democratic
processes continue to be subjects of debate and scrutiny in the Philippines.

Public awareness and action shaping policy. The active participation of

scientists and citizens in policy formation is crucial in ensuring that policies are
informed by evidence-based research and reflect the needs and interests of the public.

Public participation by scientists provides valuable expertise and insights in

policy discussions. Their research and analysis help inform policymakers about the
potential impacts of different policy options and the scientific basis for environmental
and social concerns. By engaging with policymakers and providing evidence-based
recommendations, scientists contribute to the development of well-informed and
effective policies.

Civic action in the form of protests, advocacy campaigns, and grassroots

movements has played a vital role in the establishment of strong environmental and
social protections in the Philippines. Through collective action, citizens have been able
to raise awareness about pressing environmental issues, mobilize public support, and
put pressure on policymakers to take action. Protests and demonstrations have often
been instrumental in highlighting environmental concerns and demanding policy
changes.

Media attention also plays a crucial role in shaping policy outcomes in the
Philippines. Environmental issues that receive significant media coverage tend to gain
public attention and generate public discourse. Media coverage helps raise
awareness, disseminate information, and amplify the voices of those advocating for
policy changes. By shining a spotlight on environmental issues, the media can
influence public opinion and create pressure for policymakers to address these
concerns through policy actions.

Policy changes in the Philippines often start with public protests and civic action
focused on environmental issues. These events bring attention to environmental
challenges and put pressure on policymakers to respond. The combination of public
awareness, citizen engagement, and media attention creates a conducive
environment for policy reforms and the establishment of stronger environmental and
social protections.