Section 13Sec./Art. 13

Section 14 of Republic Act. No. 7586 is hereby amended as follows:

"Sec. 14. Energy Resources. - Consistent with the policies declared in Section 2 hereof, the exploration for energy resources may be allowed in protected areas only for the purpose of gathering data and information and only if such activity is carried out with the least damage to surrounding areas.

"Surveys for nonrenewable energy projects shall be conducted only in accordance with a program approved by the DENR, and the result of such surveys shall be made available to the public and submitted to the President who shall make the appropriate recommendations to Congress. The development and operation of nonrenewable energy projects are prohibited in areas categorized as strict nature reserves and natural parks.

"Renewable energy projects may be allowed within the protected area by the PAMB with the concurrence of the DENR Secretary: Provided, That renewable energy projects, which shall be located outside the strict protection zones, shall undergo the EIA as provided by law, and shall adopt reduces impact technologies so as not to be detrimental to ecosystem functions, biodiversity, cultural practices and traditions: Provided, That sufficient bond shall be remitted by the proponent to the DENR. The amount of which will be based on damage estimation upon decommissioning and projected cost of rehabilitation. It shall be released to the depositor upon the satisfactory decommissioning of all equipment, structures and improvements and the rehabilitation of the site according to the zones and objectives of the management plan as attested to the PAMB."