Tano, et al.

Vs.

Socrates, et al.

G.R. No. 110249 August 21, 1997

DAVIDE, JR., J.:

FACTS:

The Sangguniang Panlungsod ng Puerto Princesa City enacted Ordinance No.

15-92 to ban the shipment of all live fish and lobster outside the city for 5
years. To implement the city ordinance, the acting mayor issued Office Order
No. 23, Series of 1993 to inspect on cargoes containing live fish and lobster
being shipped out from the Puerto Princesa Airport, Puerto Princesa Wharf or
at any port within the jurisdiction of the City to any point of destinations either
via aircraft or seacraft. Subsequently, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of
Palawan enacted Resolution No. 33 which prohibits the catching, gathering,
possessing, buying, selling and shipment of live marine coral dwelling aquatic
organisms for 5 years in and coming from Palawan waters.

The petitioners were charged criminally for violating the ordinances. Hence,
they challenged the validity of the ordinances on the claim that the ordinances
are beyond the power of local governments to enact but on the ground that
they deprive petitioners of their means of livelihood and occupation.

ISSUES:

Whether the city ordinance, office order and resolution were violating the duty
of the State to protect and advance the right of the people to a balanced and
healthful ecology in accord with the rhythm and harmony of nature.

RULING:

No, the ordinances did not violate the right to a balanced and healthful ecology.

It is clear to the Court that both Ordinances have two principal objectives or
purposes: (1) to establish a "closed season" for the species of fish or aquatic
animals covered therein for a period of five years; and (2) to protect the coral in
the marine waters of the City of Puerto Princesa and the Province of Palawan
from further destruction due to illegal fishing activities. The accomplishment of
the first objective is well within the devolved power to enforce fishery laws in
municipal waters, such as P.D. No. 1015, which allows the establishment of
"closed seasons." The realization of the second objective clearly falls within
both the general welfare clause of the LGC and the express mandate
thereunder to cities and provinces to protect the environment and impose
appropriate penalties for acts which endanger the environment.

Under the general welfare clause of the LGC, local government units have the
power to enact ordinances to enhance the right of the people to a balanced
ecology.