Section 99Sec./Art. 99

Conversion of Mangroves. It shall be unlawful for any person to convert mangroves into fishponds or for any other purpose.

Upon a summary finding of administrative liability, the offender shall be penalized with a fine equivalent to the ecological value of a hectare of mangrove based on available studies or administrative fine of Ten million pesos (P10,000,000.00) per hectare, whichever is higher: Provided, That if the area requires rehabilitation or restoration as determined by the Department, the offender shall also be required to restore or pay for the restoration of the damaged area.

Upon conviction by a court of law, the offender shall pay a base fine of Eighty thousand pesos (P80,000.00), a fine equivalent to the administrative penalties, and shall suffer the penalty of imprisonment of six (6) months and one (1) day to twelve (12) years: Provided, That if the area requires rehabilitation or restoration as determined by the court, the offender shall also be required to restore or pay for the restoration of the damage. The offender shall be liable for environmental damages computed at Five hundred thousand pesos (P500,000.00) per hectare per year until the area is restored.