LMB FINALIZES MANUAL FOR PUBLIC LAND DISPOSITION

To continually improve and update the procedures on land disposition mandated under the Public Land Act, the Land Management Bureau (LMB) finalized the Manual for Public Land Disposition last July 14, 2016 at the Ramada Hotel, Binondo, Manila. For the use of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) field officers as guide in the processing of public land applications (PLAs), the Manual is a timely follow-up to the “Blue Book”, another land disposition manual, released at the beginning of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) more than twenty years ago.

The revision and updating of the Manual was led by Engr. Rolando Pablo, LMB Land Management Division Chief, with the support of Atty. Erwin L. Tiamson as Consultant, together with other DENR and LMB Division Chiefs and Officers. The approval and implementation of new laws and adoption of new regulations and innovations, specifically on the reforms on public land disposition, calls for the revision and updating of the Manual. With the implementation of the Rationalization Plan, the land sector expects an increase in new personnel and employees, and the Manual will be a valuable reference and guide on the trainings in land disposition.

The Manual covers different public land grants, as well as the necessary guidelines and procedures in processing PLAs. The process of survey is briefly discussed, with focus only on the sufficient and necessary practical knowledge that can be applied by employees and the general public alike. The claims and conflicts/dispute resolution procedures will be covered by a separate manual.