Section 1August 1, 1989, Sec./Art. 1

(1) The existing Sangguniang Pampook and the Lupong Tagapagpaganap ng Pook of Regions IX and XII shall be deemed abolished and the Members thereof considered as having ceased in office upon the election and qualification of their successors as provided in this Act.

(2) All regular and permanent personnel of the Sangguniang Pampook and Lupong Tagapagpaganap ng Pook of Regions IX and XII shall continue to hold office unless they are replaced by the Regional Government within six (6) months from the organization thereof; otherwise, they shall be considered regular and permanent employees of the Regional Government.

Nothing in this Organic Act, however, shall derogate from any right or privilege enjoyed by any public official or employee under existing laws. Retiring employees shall be given full benefits under existing laws. Those who opt to transfer to another region shall be allowed, subject to the Civil Service laws and regulations.

(3) Properties and assets of the present Autonomous Governments in Regions IX and XII shall be turned over to the Regional Government. Those lands, buildings and other permanent structures located in the provinces or cities that do not vote favorably in the plebiscite for the ratification of this Organic Act may be acquired by the province or city concerned for value.