TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES- TAGUIG CAMPUS

Km. 14 East Service Road, Sought Super High-Way,

Western Bicutan Taguig Metro Manila

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

SUBMITTED BY

BUMANLAG, JESA M.

CIMANES, MERVIN M.

CORPUS, JOVENAL A. JR.

ESPAÑOL, STEVE B.

JIMENEZ, GABRIEL VINCENT S.

LANDOY, JHOSUA O.

MELEGRITO, JOHN FREF P.

NAVARRO, JOHN VINCENT D.

NUÑEZ, WENDY D.

SALIBIO, STEPHEN ZYDRIC A.

GROUP 1

BSEE SEP 2A T
Environmental Impact Assessment

• It is a detailed study based on environmental assessment (EA) to determine the type and
level of effects an existing facility is having, or a proposed project would have, on its
natural environment.

• An EIA is a standard requirement where international agencies (such as World Bank) are
involved, and is critically important for projects requiring a major change in land use or
those which are to be located in environmentally sensitive areas.

• Environmental Impact Assessment is defined as an activity designed to identify the impact

on the bio-geophysical environment, on man and well-being of legislative proposals,
projects, policies, operational procedures and to interpret and communicate information.

Purpose of EIA

• To enhance planning and guide decision making.

• To integrate environmental concerns in the planning process of projects at the feasibility

stage.

• To considerably reduce the adverse environmental impacts of proposed actions are through
a reiterative review process of project setting, design and other alternatives, and the
subsequent formulation of environmental and monitoring plans.

Objectives of EIA

• To introduce the concept of EIA, placing it within the framework of sustainable

development.

• To identify, predict and evaluate the economic, environmental and social impact of
development activities.

• To provide information on the environmental consequences for decision making.

 • To promote environmentally sound and sustainable development through the identification
of appropriate alternatives and mitigation measures.

8 guiding principles of EIA

1. Participation – an appropriate and timely access to the processes for all interested parties.

2. Transparency – all assessment decisions and their basis should be open and accessible.

3. Certainty – assessment is undertaken with professionalism and objectivity.

4. Accountability – the decision makers of all parties are responsible for their action and
decisions under the assessment processes.

5. Credibility – assessment is undertaken with professionalism and objectivity.

6. Cost effectiveness – assessment process and its outcomes will ensure environmental
protection at the least cost to the society.

7. Flexibility – assessment process should be able to deal efficiently with any proposal and
decision-making situation.

8. Practicality – the information and outputs provided by the assessment process are readily
usable in decision making and planning.

How does the EIA relate to enforcement of environmental standards and laws?

• The EIA is supplementary to existing laws. It already identifies the likely issues or impacts
that may be covered later by regional permits.

• Where there are yet no existing standards or lack of explicit definitions in existing laws,
the EIA nonetheless covers environmental protection and enhancement related issues. For
example, the planting of greenbelts is not a requirement under any environmental law but
is included in the ECC as contractual obligation of the project proponent of DENR.
Other Impact Assessment Tool

Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA)

I. Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA)

A. is a systematic process for evaluating the environmental implications of a proposed
policy, plan or program and provides means for looking at cumulative effects and
appropriately address them at the earliest stage of decision making alongside
economic and social considerations.
B. One of the main benefits of SEA is that it provides a means of anticipating and
avoiding cumulative adverse impacts on the environment (Elliot, 69). Because it
intervenes at the early stage of planning.
C. It is under the international agreement United Nation Economic Commission for
Europe (UNECE) and applies to countries who signed in the agreement.

II. Seas can; assess a plan which is to be revised to guide adjustments to its revised
form, assess an existing plan to improve environmental and socio-economic
performance in on going performance, contribute to preparing a new plan (so that it
addresses environmental and socio-economic Concerns as plan takes place).

III. The SEA assesses the extent to which a given policy, plan or program:
A. provides an adequate response to environmental and climate change–related
challenges;
B. may adversely affect the environment and climate resilience, and
C. offers opportunities to enhance the state of the environment and contribute to
climate-resilient and low-carbon development.

IV. Main phases of SEA – Following are the steps of SEA

1. Screening- Screening refers to the decision to undertake an SEA. SEAs are
necessary for all policies, plans or programs that, when implemented, are likely
 to produce significant negative impacts on the environment. It answers the
question- “Does plan or program require SEAS?”.
2. Scoping- Scoping refers to the identification and clarification of issues to be
addressed by the SEA. Scoping should take into consideration the concerns and
value judgements of stakeholders, in order to ensure that these are addressed in
the SEA Study.
3. Study- provides the more detailed analysis of key issues and comprises several
stages, such as the definition of the environmental baseline, the identification of
environmental and climate change constraints and opportunities, the
identification and assessment of the potential environmental impacts, an analysis
of performance indicators, an appreciation of the institutional capacities to
address the environmental and climate change challenges identified, and
conclusions and recommendations.

V. Difference of SEA from Environmental Impact Assessment

A. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) focuses on certain projects which have
adverse potential impacts on environment whereas SEA is broader which
concerns in policy, plans and programs.

Importance of Environmental Impact Assessment

1. EIA is more than technical reports, it is a means to a larger intention – the protection and
improvement of the environmental quality of life
2. EIA is a procedure to identify and evaluate the effects of activities (mainly human) on the
environment - natural and social. It is not a single specific analytical method or technique,
but uses many approaches as appropriate to the problem.
3. EIA is not a science but uses many sciences in an integrated inter-disciplinary manner,
evaluating phenomenon and relationships as they occur in the real world.
4. EIA should not be treated as an appendage, or add-on, to a project, but be regarded as an
integral part of project planning. Its costs should be calculated as an adequate part of
planning and not regarded as something extra.
 5. EIA does not give decisions but its findings should be considered in policy and decision-
making and should be reflected in final choices. Thus, it should be part of the decision-
making process.

Benefits of Environmental Impact Assessment

• Reduced cost and time of project implementation.

• Cost-saving modifications in project design.

• Increased project acceptance.

• Avoided impacts and violations of laws and regulations.

• Improved project performance.

• Avoided treatment/cleanup costs.

• A healthier local environment (forests, water sources, agricultural potential, recreational

potential, aesthetic values, and clean living in urban areas).

• Improved human health.

• Maintenance of biodiversity.

• Decreased resource use.

• Fewer conflicts over natural resource use.

• Increased community skills, knowledge and pride

Problems/Challenges in Environmental Impact Assessment Implementation

1.) The EIS system is seen as a bureaucratic requirement needed to obtain project
approvals
 EIA requirements are often avoided.
 Causes long delays
 2.) Political interference determines the outcome of some environmental reviews
 EIA is often not carefully integrated into planning
 EIA is done primarily for projects, not programs or policies.

3.) Questionable practices by public servants serve to discredit the system

 Assessments of risk and social impacts are often omitted from EIAs
 Public Participation in EIA Is Often Inadequate
 EIA Doesn’t Ensure Environmentally Sound Projects

4.) The treatment of projects in environmentally critical areas is less than satisfactory.
 Proposed mitigations may not be implemented
 Cumulative impacts are not assessed frequently
 Post-project Monitoring Is Rarely Conducted
 Reports may be limited in scope

Philippine Law and Policies about Environmental Impact Assessment

Presidential Decree No. 1586

ESTABLISHING AN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT SYSTEM INCLUDING

OTHER ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT RELATED
MEASURES AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES

DATE APPROVED: JUNE 11, 1978

Section 1. Policy. - It is hereby declared the policy of the State to attain and maintain a rational
and orderly balance between socio-economic growth and environmental protection.

Section 2. Environmental Impact Statement System. - There is hereby established a

Environmental Impact Statement System founded and based on the environmental impact
statement required, under Section 4 of Presidential Decree No. 1151, of all agencies and
instrumentalities of the national government, including government owned or controlled
corporations, as well as private corporations, firms and entities for every proposed project and
undertaking which significantly affect the quality of the environment.

Executive Order No. 190

ABOLISHING THE GOLF COURSE CONSTRUCTION AND DEVELOPMENT

COMMITTEE AND TRANSFERRING ITS POWERS AND FUNCTIONS TO THE
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES (DENR)

DATE APPROVED: MARCH 31, 2003

Section 1. Abolition. – The Golf Course Construction and Development Committee (GCCDC) is
hereby abolished.

Section 2. Transfer of Powers and Functions. – The powers and functions of the GCCDC are
hereby transferred to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

Section 3. Implementation. – The DENR shall take the necessary steps to implement this
Executive Order

Section 4. Repeal. – All orders, rules, regulations and issuances, or parts thereof, which are
inconsistent with this Executive Order are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

Section 5. Effectivity. – This Executive Order shall take effect immediately upon approval.

Other policies regarding Environmental Impact Assessment

Administrative Order: AO 300, AO 42

Department Administrative Order: DAO 2005 - 06, DAO 2005 - 02

DENR Memorandum Circular: DMC 2007 - 23, DMC 2007 - 08

EMB Memorandum Circular: EMB MC 2019 – 005, EMB MC 2019 – 003

Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)

 The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is the primary

government agency responsible for the conservation, management, protection, proper use
and sustainable development of the country’s Environment and Natural Resources.
 It was first established on January 1, 1917 as the Department of Agriculture and Natural
Resources (DANR) through the enactment of Act No. 2666 by the Philippine Commission
 It was finally reorganized into the Department of Environment and Natural Resources by
Executive Order No. 192 on June 10, 1987

Bureaus

 Environmental Management Bureau

 Mines and Geosciences Bureau
 Forest Management Bureau
 Biodiversity Management Bureau (formerly Protected Areas and Wildlife Management
Bureau)
 Land Management Bureau
 Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau

Environmental Management Bureau

The Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) formulates plans, programs, and
appropriate environmental quality standards for the prevention and control of pollution and the
protection of the environment, and ensures their implementation

Programs of DENR-EMB

 Climate Change Division

 Environmental Impact Assessment and Management Division
 Environmental and Education Information Management
 Environmental Research and Laboratory Service Division
  Solid Waste Management
 Air Quality Management
 Water Quality Management
 Chemical Management
 Hazardous Waste Management
 Philippine Ozone Management
 Philippine Ozone Desk

Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC)

Any project in the Philippines that poses a potential environmental risk or impact (such as
mining, agriculture projects, and construction) is required to secure an Environmental Compliance
Certificate (ECC) from the Department of the Environment and Natural Resources –
Environmental Management Board (DENR-EMB

The ECC contains specific measures and conditions that must be met by the project
proponent before and during the operation of the project. In some cases, conditions are listed to be
performed during the project’s abandonment phase to lessen identified potential environmental
impacts.

Process of Creating Environmental Impact Assessment

Purpose of Having a Process
 Improve efficiency on planning and decision-making
 Make projects environmental by creating mitigation measures
 Guide Local Government Units on catering the projects being built in their jurisdiction
such as in permits, clearances, licenses. endorsements, resolutions, and other requirements.
 Acts as a bridge to the mutual acceptance of the project proponents and the public (nearby
communities)

Process of EIA in the Project Cycle

 The law requires projects to have EIA and Feasibility Study (FS) done simultaneously. The
law involves the 1996 Executive Order 291 and the 2002 Administrative Order 42. Performing
both processes should further enhance efficiency through maximizing resources and consistency
of the EIA throughout the project lifespan.

DENR

a. In the Project Conceptualization/Improvement and pre-feasibility stages, the EIA process

being done at this point is to perform screening of the site project and determine if it is
covered by Philippine Environmental Impact Statement System (PEISS). When covered,
the project proponent should determine the criticality of the site, issues that may arise in
the project lifespan, and submit the requirements of the PEISS.

b. The feasibility stage includes the revision of the initial project plans based on the criticality
of the site and the other related issues. It also, helps the project proponents determine the
required licenses and permits.

c. Detailed Engineering and Design stage should present the project revision performed in
the previous stage. The project revision should present the facility design and the
operational specifications.

d. The Project Construction and Development stage is still covered by the EIA, it includes
the monitoring of the behavior of the project facility in terms of environment. It determines
whether the project during construction, development, and operation is following the given
environmental related measures.
 e. Lastly, the operation and maintenance stage, includes the possible revisions for the project
when new environmental regulations or technology is released. The revisions should
further improve the efficiency of the operation of the project facility. As a continuous
improvement, the revisions would then undergo the first stage again.

The EIA Process in Relation to the Enforcement of Other Laws

The PEISS should suffice for the shortcomings of currently implemented environmental
laws. The proponent should know on what permits and licenses to apply for and to add to that, it
tells the proponent if the project needs the permitting of the Clean Air Act and Clean Water Act
regulatory bodies.

The EIA Process in Relation to Requirements of Other Agencies

As the EIA functions as a bridge between the project and other concerned bodies (Gas,
LGUs, and public), the assessment should be the basis on the decision for the future of the project
that would be made by the concerned bodies. The assessment does provide recommendations

DENR Memo Circular No. 2007-08 issued on 13 July 2007 stipulates the following:
i) “No permits and/or clearances issued by other National Government Agencies and Local
Government Units shall be required in the processing of ECC or CNC applications.
ii) The findings and recommendations of the EIA shall be transmitted to relevant
government agencies for them to integrate in their decision making prior to the issuance of
clearances, permits and licenses under their mandates.
iii) The issuance of an ECC or CNC for a project under the EIS System does not exempt
the proponent from securing other government permits and clearances as required by other laws.”
Issues outside the EMB-DENR purview, such as zoning and land jurisdiction issues are considered
and evaluated within the EIA review process but the resolution are still within the responsibility
of the GA or the LGU.
The EIA Process

DENR
Stage 1: Project Screening
The stage is where the proponent would determine if an EIA is required. The parameters
could be determined if the site of the project is covered by the PEISS. When the site is reported to
be covered by the PEISS, the proponent then needs to present the required documents for
certification. The project and the site would need to be determined if it is an Environmentally
Critical Project (ECP) and Environmentally Critical Area (ECA).

A Certificate of Non-coverage is the certificate that the proponent should apply when the
project and site is not ECP and ECA respectively. It is important to take note that when the project
site is in Non-ECA (NECA), the proponent should still check the list of categories for ECA. This
is to see whether there are no relevant categories that NECA falls on. It is also important to consider
that the agencies with jurisdiction on the site, should certify that the project site is absolute “not
an ECA” as said by the EMB-DENR in their technical descriptions.

Stage 2: EIA Study Scoping

Just like the scope and limitations in a thesis, this part determines what issues that the study
would face in its lifespan and specially the Terms of Reference of the EIA study. It aims to:
 Give proper focus on the requirements of the assessment
 Provide the final scope and terms of reference for the EIA
 Address the issues and concerns of the concerned bodies
 Further assess the issues that the project encountered and would encounter.

Stage 3: Conduct of the EIA Study and Preparation of the EIA Report
The proponent then should create the EIA report which includes the details of the project
itself, the possible alternatives for the project plans, and the Environmental Management and
Monitoring Plan. The EIA report will have seven parts. The report is the submitted to the EMB-
DENR which also includes the payments.

Stage 4: Review and Evaluation

The EMB-DENR then review and evaluate the submitted EIA report by the proponent. The
report would then be reviewed whether it follows the minimum requirements which is mentioned
in the scoping. The report is then reviewed by concerned third-party experts; the experts are
deployed by the EMB for PEIS/EIS application while the DENR/EMB internal specialists is the
one to do it for IEE applications. For the evaluation, the EMB evaluates the recommendations by
the EIARC and the public which then leads to the verdict whether the project should proceed,
needs revision, or not proceed. The part also aims to:
 Regulate the quality and accuracy of the data provided in the EIA report.
 Be more consistent in the activities of the project specifically on the aspect of project site
and whether the environmental and public aspects were considered and consistent
throughout the report.
 Help the GAs and LGUs in deciding whether the project should be given the permit to
proceed construction
 Show the proponent and stakeholders on how to validate and assess the effectiveness of
environmental measures for future reference when the project would undergo new
environmental measures.
Stage 5: Decisions on EIA Applications
The decision from the review is then based on the:
 Contribution of the project to the economy and whether it can make up for the damage it
does to the environment.
 The project follows the socio-economic and environmental criteria
 The GAs and LGU’s decision are also considered on the overall decision

There are also documents that would be used in this stage:

 ECC - the certificate presents that the proponent would be responsible on the behavior of
the project throughout the project cycle. The proponent should always observe that the
project is following at least the minimum requirements stipulated by the existing laws, or
much better the project applies the best and probably the unprecedented environmental
practices in the life span of the project
 CNC – certification of the project with the CNC tells that the project is not covered by the
EIS system.
 Denial Letter – this is the letter sent to the proponents when the EIA failed the minimum
requirements which then leading to the rejection of the project. The letter does also include
the recommendations for the project in order to meet the minimum requirements.

Stage 6: Environmental Impact Monitoring and Evaluation/Audit

The project would still undergo monitoring after the project is allowed to proceed in the
initial phase. The monitoring involves the proponent and EMB in which both acts on their own
parameters and guidelines. The part does also provide the following:
 Determining whether the project sill complies with minimum requirements thru checking
of the validation of ECC and the updates made with the EMP.
 Observe the operation of the project in order to see that the EIA report was accurate on its
prediction, and further improve EIA project in future projects and improvements.

Projects that is not Going to be Monitored

 Projects with CNC
 Projects implemented during PD 1586 was active and has ECC
 Projects that is required for extra and special permits such as permit for the air/water
pollution source and permit for managing toxic waste.
 Projects that is handled by the government such as DOE’s non-covered energy projects,
MGB’s non-covered mineral mining projects, and DPWH’s non-covered roads and
bridges.
Monitoring Responsibilities
 The proponent should perform self-monitoring of the project and create a report about it
 The report made by the proponent should be then monitored by the monitoring team which
consists of different parties
 The EMB would do its own evaluation and audit of the operations of the project.

DENR

Environmentally Critical Projects

 Heavy Industries – Non-ferrous Metal Industries, Iron and Steel Mills, Petroleum and
Petro-chemical Industries including Oil and Gas, Smelting Plants
 Resource Extractive Industries – Major Mining and Quarrying Projects, Forestry Projects
(logging, major wood processing projects, introduction of fauna (exotic animals) in public
and private forests, forest occupancy, extraction of mangrove products, grazing), Fishery
Projects (dikes for/ and fishpond development projects)
 Infrastructure Projects – Major Dams, Major Power Plants (fossil-fueled, nuclear fueled,
hydroelectric or geothermal), Major Reclamation Projects, Major Roads and Bridges - As
declared by Proclamation No. 803 (1996)
 All golf course projects
Environmentally Critical Areas
 All areas declared by law as national parks, watershed reserves, wildlife preserves,
sanctuaries
 Areas set aside as aesthetic potential tourist spots
 Areas which constitute the habitat of any endangered or threatened species of Philippine
wildlife (flora and fauna)
 Areas of unique historic, archaeological, or scientific interests
 Areas which are traditionally occupied by cultural communities or tribes
 Areas frequently visited and/or hard-hit by natural calamities (geologic hazards, floods,
typhoons, volcanic activity, etc.)
 Areas with critical slopes
 Areas classified as prime agricultural lands
 Recharged areas of aquifers
 Water bodies characterized by one or any combination of the following conditions: tapped
for domestic purposes; within the controlled and/or protected areas declared by appropriate
authorities; which support wildlife and fishery activities
 Mangrove areas characterized by one or any combination of the following conditions: with
primary pristine and dense young growth; adjoining mouth of major river systems; near or
adjacent to traditional productive fry or fishing grounds; areas which act as natural buffers
against shore erosion, strong winds and storm floods; areas on which people are dependent
for their livelihood.
 Coral reefs characterized by one or any combination of the following conditions: With 50%
and above live coralline cover; Spawning and nursery grounds for fish; Act as natural
breakwater of coastlines

NON-ENVIRONMENTALLY CRITICAL PROJECTS

Summary List of Additional Non-Environmentally Critical Project (NECP) Types in ECAs
(Environmentally Critical Areas)
 Agriculture industry
 Buildings, storage facilities and other structures
 Chemical industries
 Cottage industries
 Demonstration and pilot projects
 Environmental enhancement and mitigation projects
 Food and related industries
 Packaging materials and miscellaneous products industries
 Pipeline projects
 Textile, wood and rubber industries
 Tourism industry
  Transport terminal facilities
 Waste management projects
 Water supply, irrigation or flood control projects
 Treasure hunting in NIPAS areas (National Integrated Protected Areas System)
 Wildlife farming or any related projects as defined by PAWB (Protected Areas and
Wildlife Bureau)
 and All other NECPs outside ECAs

Registration Procedure

Objectives

To enhance transparency and increase accountability of Environmental Impact Assessment

practitioners, the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) of the Department of Environmental
and Natural Resources (DENR) through the Environmental Impact Assessment and Management
(EIAM) Division has established a registry system for EIA reviewers and preparers (who’s involve
in the process of EIA).

Procedure

1. Secure and accomplish appropriate registration forms.

 EIA reviewers
http://119.92.161.2/portal/Portals/21/EIA%20Registered%20Practitioners/Registr
Regis%20form%20for%20EIARC%20&%20EIA%20Preparer.pdf
 EIA Individual Preparers
http://119.92.161.2/portal/Portals/21/EIA%20Registered%20Practitioners/Registr
Regis%20form%20for%20EIARC%20&%20EIA%20Preparer.pdf
 EIA Firm Preparers
http://119.92.161.2/portal/Portals/21/EIA%20Registered%20Practitioners/Registr
ation%20Form_EIA%20Consulting%20Firms.pdf
2. Accomplished registration forms together with other documentary requirements shall be
submitted to the Environmental Impact Assessment and Management Division (EIAMD)
Office where the applicant desires to practice. For practitioners who plans to get involved
in the preparation or review of EIAs for ECPs, submissions may also be done electronically
through E-mail at eia@emb.gov.ph.

3. The registration applicants shall be notified if they can include in the registry or additional
documents need to be submitted.
Application Form for EIA Review and EIA Individual Practitioners
Application Form for EIA Firm Preparers
Three (3) General Criteria of the review of the EIS by EMB

 Environmental considerations are integrated into the overall project planning.

 The assessment is technically sound and proposed environmental mitigation measures are
effective.
 Social acceptability is based on informed public participation.

Relationship of EIA Findings to the Requirements of other Agencies Involved in the

Project

I. Government-issued documents such as permits, certificates, license, clearances,

endorsements, resolutions, studies, MOA, or other forms of approval under mandate or
other forms of approval under the mandate of other regulatory entities are required
under current practices.
II. Failure of EIA process happens when these documents were issued without proper
review of environmental and social concerns.
III. The appropriate practice shall be for the findings of the EIA to be incorporated in the
issuance of those documents. Hence, the issuance of the EIA evaluation must be done
prior to the issuance of these documents.
IV. EIA preparer and/or project proponent anticipating negative findings in the EIA may
pre-empt those findings by obtaining and including in their report the decision and
permits from the relevant government agencies.
V. Example
a. If the EIA review finds a coral reef of ecological significance, it will recommend
its exclusion from reclamation permit its exclusion from reclamation permit. If the
reclamation permit has been issued before the EIA was evaluated, it will be difficult
to amend the reclamation permit to exclude the ecologically sensitive area.
b. A major proponent would like to construct a commercial center adjacent to a forest
reserve. Anticipating that the EIA will recommend limiting any development in the
area to agriculture and at mot low density housing, the Project proponent will
 include in its EIA submission permits and documentations from other agencies
classifying area as commercial zone.

Roles and Responsibilities of the Case Handler, EIARC, and the Resource Person.

The review team is composed of the EMB Case Handler, EIA Review Committee (EIARC)
and/or Resource Person/s.

The team is multi-disciplinary and multi-sectoral, thus, the need to delineate specific roles
and responsibilities to undertake a harmonious, efficient and effective review of the EIA report.

a) Case Handler
i. EMB staff who coordinates the over-all management of the EIA Report review
process for a specific ECC application.
ii. Recommends EIARC members and/or Resource Person, subject to endorsement
by the EIA Review Section Chief and approval by the EIAD Chief.
iii. Coordinates with the Project Proponent and EIARC on schedule of meetings, field
visits and public hearing and on corresponding details of administrative and
logistical requirements.
iv. Undertakes procedural screening of the EIA Report, and makes recommendation
to EIA Evaluation Section Chief on acceptability or return of the document within
the prescribed timeframe by EMB.
v. May undertake an internal review of the EIA Report.
vi. May evaluate the EIARC’s request for Additional Information for endorsement of
EMB to the Proponent, and provide corresponding feedback to the EIARC thru
the EIARC Chair, of any requirement outside EMB regulations;
vii. May evaluate the EIARC’s recommendations as either regulatory or
recommendatory provisions in the ECC;
viii. Briefs EIARC members of duties and responsibilities, observance of Code of
Practice, timelines of review and reports, expected outputs.
ix. Documents and evaluates review proceedings focused on key issues and
highlights, including policy and procedural problems encountered by the review
 team and recommendations offered by the team for continual improvement of the
EIS System.
x. Finalizes integrated AI documents and oversees transmittal of AI and AI
Responses to Proponents and EIARC.
xi. Prepares Review process Report and drafts ECC for review/endorsement by EIA
Evaluation Section Chief or EIAD Chief.

“The EIA Evaluation Section shall be in charge of screening projects for coverage
under the EIS System, EIS Scoping, and evaluation of EIS’s and IEE’s submitted for ECC
issuance… Further, continual improvement of the technical capability of the Staff of the
EIA Division shall be undertake” – Section 13.1 if DAO 2003-30

“… The EMB may commission independent professionals, experts from the

academe and representatives from relevant government agencies as members of the EIA
Review Committee as may be deemed necessary. Further, continual improvement of the
technical capability of the Staff of the EIA Division shall be undertake” – Section 13.1 if
DAO 2003-30

“The Review Process Report serves to provide the procedural and administrative
record of the entire review process. It provides sufficient details to serve as archival records
for documentation purposes. The Report shall contain the details that may not have been
considered by the EIARC. In case the case handler disagrees with the recommendations or
findings of the EIARC, the Review Process Report shall detail the rationale and framework,
including the basis or supporting factors, of such reservation or disagreement.” – Section
4.2 B.6. of DAO 2003-30 Procedural Manual.
b) EIA Review Committee (EIARC)

“EIA Review Committee = a body of independent technical experts and professionals of

known probity from various fields organized by the EMB to evaluate the EIS and other related
documents and to make appropriate recommendations regarding the issuance or non-issuance
of an ECC.” – Section 3 of DAO 2003-30

EIARC Chair

i. Takes over-all lead in the EIARC’s review;

ii. Presides EIARC meetings;
iii. Reads through the entire EIA Report for wholistic guidance to the EIARC members
on issues to be focused on.
iv. Aligns individual EIARC member’s review with the guidance provided in the
Manual of EIA Review and the DAO 2003-30 Procedural Manual;
v. Consolidates individual EIARC members’ recommendations and other concerns
into an integrated AI request and transmits to the Case Handler;
vi. Refers specific EIARC comments to other experts in the team whose modular
review may be affected by such comments or recommendations;
vii. Can endorse request for Resource Person/s by other EIARC members or by the
Preparer/Proponent to address concerns which need further clarification or other
pending issues which could not be settled by the EIARC.
viii. Prepares and submits to the Case Handler the EIARC Report within the prescribed
timeframe by EMB;
ix. Raises and summarizes policy and procedural problems encountered by the review
team and consolidates recommendations for continual improvement of the EIS
System.
 EIARC Members

i. Undertakes individual reviews of its assigned modular sections in the EIA Report;
ii. Reads the Executive Summary, Introduction, Project Description and EIA Process
Documentation before reviewing assigned modular section/s;
iii. Suggests need for Resource Person/s based on specific information needed to make a
decision on acceptability of the modular report;
iv. Attends EIARC review meetings, field visits and public hearing;
v. Coordinates with other EIARC members, Resource Person and/or EIARC Chair on
comments/recommendations affecting other modules;
vi. Prepares modular review report with comments, recommendations, or Additional
Information (AI), if any, together with explanation or justification why such AI is being
requested;
vii. Submits modular review report within timeframe required by EMB;
viii. Provides assistance to the EIARC Chair for more efficient review of the EIARC as
a team.
ix. Raises policy and procedural problems encountered by the review team and
recommends solutions for continual improvement of the EIS System.

c) Resource Person
i. Provides information and expert opinion within the module or subject matter asked
of;
ii. When requested by EMB or EIARC, provides other advice and/or
recommendations on subject matter of concern.
iii. May be invited not just during review meetings but also during public
consultations/hearings.

During a public hearing: “Resource persons may be invited to present technical information
or shed light on certain issues” – Section 5.4.B.3 of DAO 2003-30 (Procedural Manual).
The Level of Authority of the Case Handler, EIARC and Resource Person

The Case Handler is directly recommendatory to the EIA Evaluation Section Chief, or EIA
Division Chief in the absence of the former, on the procedural acceptability of the EIA Report and
on the acceptability of the results and process of the substantive review. Within the review team,
the Case Handler is the EMB's representative in providing guidance and clarification on EIA policy
and procedures. Moreover, the CH does not vote or participate in consensus building on EIARC
issues as he/she is supposed to be the receptor, facilitator and evaluator of the issues raised by the
EIARC as a whole.

The EIARC is directly advisory and recommendatory to the EMB. It is also indirectly
advisory to the Proponent, thru the signing by the EIARC Chair of a portion of the ECC where the
EIARC recommendations are either at the option of the Proponent to be complied with or at the
option of other regulatory agencies to consider in their approval process. The EIARC can require
Additional Information (AI) from the Proponent based on the agreed upon scope and limits of the
EIA Study. Issues on relevance of an Al shall be justified by the requesting EIARC member,
deliberated upon and/or recommended by the EIARC as a whole for EMB's final evaluation. All
members, including the Chair, have equal voting power in resolving pending issues. The Chair has
no veto powers.

The EIARC Chair or any member cannot directly interphase with the Proponent to discuss
Al or other review concerns, unless in the presence or prior clearance of EMB.

The Resource Person is advisory to the review team, a provider of technical and policy
information and clarifications, upon request by the EMB or the EIARC. The RP has the option to
read the EIA if he/she deems it necessary for a more relevant advice on the referred area of concern.
However, the RP cannot require Al from the Proponent. He/She can request clarifications on the
EIS from EMB or the EIARC for the purpose of focusing its advice on the project being reviewed.
The RP has no voting power within the review team.
The RP may directly interphase with the Proponent, particularly the RP's who represent the agency
who is mandated to promote the sector of the subject ECC application, e.g À Resource Person
from MGB Environmental or Mine Operations divisions can coordinate with a Proponent for a
mining project since the RP represents the agency mandated to promote the mining program and
encourage entry of mining investments in the country. The MGB RP, by virtue of as regulatory
powers over the mining firm, can directly advice the Proponent on the latter's compliance with the
EIA review issues and all other regulatory requirements of the MGB Same is true with Resource
Persons from DOE for energy projects. RPs from DPWH for infrastructure projects, RPs from
DOH for medical facilities, RPs from DA/BFAR for agricultural projects and so on.

Registered Internal Review Committee

NAME: Area/s of Expertise Registration No.

Albert Magalang Climate Change RPCO-019
Elenida Basug Environmental Education, Climate Change RPCO-015
Renato Cruz Clean Water Act RPCO-002
Leza Cuevas Clean Water Act RPCO-006
Jundy Del Socorro Clean Air Act RPCO-009
Cristina Francisco Environmental Education RPCO-007
Nolan Francisco Solid Waste Management Regulations RPCO-0
Solid Waste Management Regulations,
Eligio Ildefonso Land Use Regulations RPCO-003
Emmanuelita Mendoza Chemical Management Regulations RPCO-018
Nicanor Mendoza Clean Water Act RPCO-014
Climate Change and Disaster Risk
Gerarda Merilo Reduction Regulations RPCO-005
Hazardous Waste Management
Edwin Romel Navaluna Regulations, Chemical Management RPCO-012
Regulations
Teresita Peralta Air Quality Management RPCO-010
Hazardous Waste Management
Solon Rativo Regulations, Solid Waste Management RPCO-013
Regulations
Marcelino Rivera Clean Water Act RPCO-004
Jean Rosete Clean Air Act RPCO-008
Hazardous Waste Management
Geri Geronimo Sañez Regulations RPCO-011
Registered External Review Committee

NAME: Area/s of Expertise Registration No.

Emma D. Ares Meteorology RCO-029
Jonathan A. Anticamara RCO-043
Elvira r. Balinang Social Impact Assessment RCO-021
Chester B. Cabalza Social Impact Assessment RCO-053
Nestor Castro Social Impact Assessment RCO-012
Environmental Risk Assessment,
Environmental Impact Assessment,
Elsie Cezar Environmental Monitoring and
Management RCO-003
Carlo C. Custodio Terrestrial Ecology, Marine Ecology RCO-040
Alan B. De Gala AQ, WQ, ERA, EIA, EM RCO-026
Thelma A. Cinco Meteorology RCO-030
Oskar Cruz Hydrology, Hydrogeology, Meteorology,
Geology RCO-015
Landrico U. Dalida Meteorology RCO-035

Soledad Natalia Dalisay Social Impact Assessment RCO-009

Agerico De Villa Philosophy RCO-022
Pablo G. Delos Reyes Freshwater Ecology, Marine Ecology RCO-030
Water Quality, Fresh Water,
Environmental Risk Assessment,
Emilyn Q. Espiritu Environmental Impact Assessment, RCO-020
Environmental Monitoring and
Management
Ame M. Garong RCO-035
Minerva G. Gonzales Water Quality, Marine Ecology RCO-017
Water Quality, Land Use, Hydrology,
Freshwater Ecology, Social Impact
Maria Aileen Leah G. Assessment, Environmental Risk RCO-052
Guzman Assessment, Environmental Impact
Assessment, Environmental Monitoring &
Management
Heidi Joaquino Air Quality, Water Quality RCO-013
Flaviana DL. Hilario Hydrology, Meteorology RCO-032
Edna L. Juanillo Hydrology, Meteorology RCO-031
 Air Quality, Water Quality, Terrestrial
Eugenia L. Lagmay Ecology, Hydrology RCO-024
Social Impact Assessment, Environmental
Esperanza C. Lee Risk Assessment, Environmental Impact
Assessment, Environmental Monitoring & RCO-033
Management
Land Use, Environmental Impact
Hussein S. Lidasan Assessment RCO-036
Dodjie S. Maestrecampo Air Quality, Water Quality RCO-011
Jovito D. Manuel Hydrogeology, Geology, Geomorphology RCO-018
Marlynn M. Mendoza Freshwater Ecology RCO-031
Elaine G. Mission Water Quality RCO-025
Victorio B. Molina Environmental Health Impact Assessment RCO-034
Ma. Cecilia A. Air Quality, Meteorology RCO-033
Monteverde
Maria Lourdes Q. Terrestrial Ecology, Marine Ecology RCO-007
Moreno
Air Quality, Water Quality, Environmental
Risk Assessment,
Jose Reynato Morente Environmental Impact Assessment, RCO-002
Environmental Monitoring and
Management
Edino Nonato L. Nolasco Meteorology, Oceanography RCO-026
David Pagalilauan Geology, Geomorphology, Mining RCO-005
Environmental Risk Assessment,
Vangeline K. Parami Environmental Management and RCO-050
Monitoring Plan, Water Quality
Environmental Impact Assessment,
Environmental Risk Assessment,
Pura Vita G. Pedrosa Environmental Management and RCO-037
Monitoring Plan, Water Quality
Rosa T. Perez Freshwater Ecology, Terrestrial Ecology RCO-010
Teresita R. Perez Freshwater Ecology, Terrestrial Ecology RCO-010
Robert Z. Quinto Mining RCO-028
Ramon D. Quebrel Geology RCO-027
 Ricardo Sigua Air Quality, Land Use RCO-014
Jeffrey S. Perez Geology, Geomorphology RCO-038
Robert Z. Quinto Meteorology RCO-028
Ninio A. Relox Meteorology RCO-034
Air Quality, Water Quality, Environmental
Risk Assessment,
Jake Tio Environmental Impact Assessment, RCO-001
Environmental Monitoring and
Management
Environmental Risk Assessment,
Environmental Impact Assessment,
Gavino C. Trono Jr. Environmental Monitoring and RCO-050
Management
Analiza C. Tuddao Meteorology RCO-027
Imelda I. Valeroso Air Quality, Meteorology RCO-039
Ernesto B. Villalva Hydrology, Geology RCO-028
Jason Jude P. Villegas Hydrology, Hydrogeology, Geology,
Geomorphology, Pedology RCO-008
Reynaldo R. Zabala Mining RCO-032

Contents of EIA Report

 Project Description
 Baseline Environmental Description
 Impact Assessment
 Environmental Management Plan

Project Description

Presents its location, scale and duration, rationale, alternatives, phases and components,
resource requirements, manpower complement, estimation of waste generation from the most
critical project activities and environmental aspects, and project cost.
Baseline Environmental Description

This includes land, water, air and people, with due focused on the sectors and resources
most significantly affected by the proposed action.

Impact Assessment

Focused on significant environmental impacts per project stage (pre-construction,

construction/development, operation and decommissioning stages), taking into account
cumulative, unavoidable and residual impacts.

Environmental Management Plan

Specifying the impacts mitigation plan, areas of public information, education and
communication, social development program proposal, environmental monitoring plans (for EIS-
based projects) and the corresponding institutional and financial requirements/ arrangements.

Example of EIA Report

Visayas Base Load Power Project –

Secured Landfill Facility

Project Description
Location
The Project is located in Barangay Tina-an, one of the Coastal Industrial Corridor of Naga
City, where most of the existing industrial establishments are located. The project site is
situated at the titled Property of the Province of Cebu. It is approximately 120 meters away
from the national road which is next to Barangay Poblacion at the northern side and
fronting the seawater of Bohol Strait at the eastern side of Naga City.

Project Rationale
The operation of the KEPCO Coal Powered Power Plant is one of the focus particularly
on the disposal of Coal Ash as waste material of the Power Plant. The provincial
government has a 24.9 hectares titled property located in Barangay Tinaan and has decided
 to develop the 23.2 hectares into a Secured Landfill for the secure dumping of coal ash
materials produced by the Coal Fired Power Plant of Kepco located at Barangay Colon,
City of Naga.

Construction Phase
The major activities during construction phase are: the construction of the retaining walls
to enclose the site, Reclamation and coal ash filling.

Manpower Requirements for the Construction Phase

The manpower requirement of the project is estimated to have 95 personnel composed of
the following:

Project Engineer 1
Site Engineer 1
Safety Engineer 1
Construction Foreman 2
Truck Drivers 10
Equipment Operators 10
Skilled Workers 20
Semi Skilled/Labor 50

Project Cost
The total project cost of the Secured Landfill project is estimated to be Php 133,000,000.00

Project Duration and Schedule

Project development will start right after all clearances and permits are secured.
The project shall have a projected duration of six (6) years of operation. This is based on
the capacity of the Secured Landfill.

BASELINE ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITION

Land
Alluvium, Carcar limestone formation, Pandan formation, Ilag formation, Toledo bulacao
andesite and Uling formation are types of geologic rocks present in the area.
Soil composition in the area is of five types, namely: Faraon Clay, Lugo Clay, Faraon Clay
Steep Phase, Mandaue Clay loam and Baguio clay loam. Predominant is faraon clay steep
phase which comprises 39.36% of the total land area.

Water
Water Quality
The physico-chemical characteristics of water are important factors to determine the
quality of the coastal environment. The investigation of the water quality utilizes the study
 conducted by Test Consultants, Inc. during the conduct of EIA within Naga, Cebu for the
Coal Fired Power Plant.

The study considers the following parameters, such as: salinity, temperature, turbidity,
potential hydrogen (pH), dissolved oxygen (DO), biological oxygen demand (BOD),
sulfite, nitrite and phosphate.

Marine Biology
Secondary data was utilized for the determination of the different marine species present
within the coastal areas of City of Naga. This data was taken from the previous EIA of KEPCO
Philippines done in 2005. Due to proximity of the study areas to the project site, the species are
likely the same except for the Mangrove Forest which have dominant species within the coastal
area of Brgy. Tinaan.

Corals, Algae and Seagrass Communities

Algae are primary producers of the marine environment. Threr are three major groups
based on their dominant colors: Chloropphyta (green algae), Phaeophyta (brown algae) and
Rhodophyta (red algae) Naga has sandy shore and intertidal belt that gradually slopes down into
the Bohol Strait. In this area only soft bottom community can be found, especially the ephemeral
species of seagrass ( Halodule pinifolia ) and green algae ( Enteromorpha intestinalis and E.
clathrata ).

Air
Temperature is relatively constant throughout the year with daily fluctuation of 7°C. The
easterly trade winds bring warm dry air. Please see attached climatological normals. The weather
is relatively moderate and is endowed with a tropical climate. Humidity is 78%, warmest
temperature usually occurs during the months of December to February, and wet seasons are
expected during November. Mean temperature range is from 19.2°C-36.4°C.
Air Quality and Noise
Only exhaust from the passing vehicles near the site contributes air pollution to the area.
Other source of pollution is APO Cement but this is already mitigated by the management of APO
Cement. This slight polluted air is immediately dissipated by unobstructed normal wind current
from the open sea.
Impact Assessment and Mitigation

Construction Phase

Impacts
Ecology There will be increase in
turbidity, total suspended solids
and other water quality values
for an organism to live. This in
particular will affect the area to
be confined inside the retaining
walls and the areas immediately
adjacent to the retaining walls.
Land Generation of Solid Wastes and
Construction Wastes
Mitigation
The marine ecology and water quality will
revive after the construction of the retaining
wall. The proponent shall make sure that there
will be less destruction and alteration of water
quality in the site and make sure that it will be
confined within the proposed site for the
project
Construction wastes shall be cleaned
immediately and haul back to the construction
yard or storage within the field office parking

Air Air Pollution Caused by vehicles Vehicles and equipment shall be maintained
and equipment properly. Dust generating areas shall be
frequently sprinkled with water to prevent
dust pollution.

People Generation of Employment Local hiring shall be prioritize except for

highly technical works that needs experts.

Safety  Use of proper personal protective

equipment
 Provide safety training
 Safety, health and educational drive
should be given to residents living
near the construction site.
 Clear safety warning
Operation Phase

Impacts Mitigation
Marine Ecology Fine material run-off is likely to Retaining walls and
and Water originate from the landfill facility, embankments are shielded with
Quality including the waste stockpile area, road Geotextile Cloth and High
surfaces and embankments. During Density Polyethelene Liner to
heavy downpour, the fine materials are prevent siltation and percolation
projected to be transported down to the of fill materials and seepage into
lower areas and could find its way into the marine waters.
the sea

Contamination Contamination of Terrestrial Coal ash coming from the coal

of Terrestrial Environment caused by spillage of coal fired power plant transported
Environment ash during transportation. into the Secured
caused by Landfill site shall be covered by
spillage of coal a duly approved material during
ash during the transportation to minimize or
transportation. eliminate spillage.

Air Fugitive dust is likely to be generated in ⬩ Proper handling of

the process of loading, hauling, filling materials
stockpiling, excavation, etc. The ⬩ Spraying of water on
fugitive dust is likely to come from the access roads, haulage
landfill site and the access roads roads and other dust
generating areas with the
use of water trucks
⬩ Provision of dust
respirators to equipment
operators who are
exposed to dust while
operating their
equipment.

Environmental Management Plan

Construction Phase
Construction of Retaining Walls
The retaining wall is constructed to contain waste material (coal ash) during filling.
Its construction will be done before any filling activities. retaining wall will prevent
siltation and soil erosion of filling materials during filling.
Construction of adequate Drainage System
An appropriate drainage system shall be constructed to cater rainwater and
minimize runoff that could contaminate the sea water and degrade the area. A settling basin
will be incorporated in the drainage system.
Provide Mufflers and Silencers
Make sure that all equipment used has efficient mufflers and silencers to minimize
noise emissions.

Installation of traffic signs and Detours

Have traffic signs made in coordination with the City’s Engineering District. If
necessary, there will be rerouting of traffic to avoid accidents and inconvenience during
hauling of materials.
Hauling of Coal Ash from Power Plant to Secured Landfill
⬩ Loading and Transportation of Ash
Ash discharge coming from KSPC will be loaded into a dump truck through a silo. It
should be noted that the ash shall be loaded in such a way that spillage will be avoided.
Dump trucks will be retrofitted in such a way that the cargo box opening will match
that of the silo’s opening. With this, only a small portion of the opening will need to be
covered. Four (4) units of dump trucks, with 20 tons capacity each, will be assigned
while one (1) unit spare dump truck will be on standby in case of breakdown of any of
those in the project.
⬩ Dumping of Ash
The ash weight of all trucks coming in shall be checked before dumping. Manpower
will also be assigned on the backfilling area for watering the ash especially those about
to be dumped to minimize dusts. Water will be sourced from the from the sea and water
will be controlled for just moistening the materials. Directional signs and traffic
controls will be established at the landfill facility for proper guidance on priority areas
and on the use of dumping equipment.
⬩ Moving of Ash
Ash unloaded on the landfill facility will be spread throughout the landfill using a dozer
or its equivalent. The ash will then be gradually covered with or topped by soil and/or
limestone until each portion of the area is filled up with ash and limestone.
⬩ Compaction of Ash
To reduce the dumped ash physically and to enhance the compaction of landfill facility,
a roller will be used. The top soil of the dump site will be protected from wind blows
because of the designed elevation of the landfill facility and the compaction will be
useful in the soil stabilization of the area for future usage.
Monitoring Plan
Environmental Monitoring is a very important activity done in order to ensure
environmental protection and management in the project site, which include protection of the
people and the environment and project sustainability.
To ensure effective monitoring activities, the monitoring team should be multi-represented
by experts coming from different government and non-government agencies with high regard on
environmental protection and management.
Regular monitoring of environmental aspects that can likely be affected during
construction and operation of the Secured Landfill project site shall be monitored, sampled and
analyzed periodically.

Key Improvements on the EIA Reports

 Number of Pages. The Manual fixes an estimated limit on the number of EIA Report pages.
It requires an upfront submission of substantive analysis, key findings and conclusions on
environmental characterization, with due comparisons to Philippine standards, typical
baseline environmental values, country statistics or other acceptable reference standards.
Non-compliance to the prescribed number of pages of the report is not a basis for denial of
acceptance of any application for ECC or CNC.
 Resubmissions. The “FINAL” version of the EIA Reports (excluding IEE Checklists and
PDRs) now requires an integration of all Additional Information/Review Findings and
Recommendations.
 Provision of templates and other pro-forma documents for organized and direct-to-the-
point presentation of information, assessments, management and monitoring plans
 Organized Presentation of Impacts. Baseline information, impact assessment and
mitigation by ecosystem are now to be presented by impact areas pertaining to land, water,
air and people for a more integrated analysis and mitigation of environmental quality
References

DENR, Environmental Management Bureau, Environmental Impact Assessment and

Management Division

http://eia.emb.gov.ph/?page_id=444

http://eia.emb.gov.ph/?page_id=451

http://eia.emb.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Review-manual.pdf

http://eia.emb.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Revised-Procedural-Manual-DAO-03-30.pdf

http://www.businessdictionary.com/definition/environmental-impact-assessment-EIA.html

https://emb.gov.ph/e-library-2/

https://europa.eu/capacity4dev/public-environment-climate/wiki/strategic-environmental-
assessment#:~:text=A%20Strategic%20Environmental%20Assessment%20(SEA,making%20alo
ngside%20economic%20and%20social

https://www.biologydiscussion.com/environment/environmental-impact-assessment-eia-
definition-process-and-importance/16777

https://www.slideserve.com/whilemina-stevenson/environmental-impact-assessment-eia-system-
in-the-philippines

https://www.slideshare.net/ICEM-Centre-Environmental-Management/strategic-environmental-
assessment-methodology

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KTHKqx-C_C8