Water Rights Division Profile

The NWRB executes its water resource regulatory functions through its Water Rights Division, consisting of four (4) sections namely:

• Permits Section;
• Evaluation Section;
• Complaints and Investigation Section; and
• Litigation and Adjudication Section.

As a resource regulator, the NWRB implements the provisions of Presidential Decree No. 1067, otherwise known as the Water Code of the Philippines. Premised on the underlying principle that “all waters belong to the State”, and “the State may allow the use or development of waters by administrative concession”, the NWRB regulates and control, on behalf of the Government, the utilization, exploitation, development, conservation and protection of all water resources.

More specifically, the NWRB’s functions as a resource regulator include the following:

• Issue/suspend/revoke/approve transfer of water permits for the appropriation and use of waters;
• Declare waters not previously appropriated exempt from appropriation;
• Promulgate rules and declare the existence of control areas for the coordinated development, protection, and utilization of ground and surface waters;
• Establish minimum stream flows for rivers and streams and minimum water levels for lakes as may be necessary for the protection of the environment, control of pollution, navigation, prevention of salt damage, and general public use;
• Issue permits for development of streams, lakes or springs for recreational purposes;
• Issue permits for drilling of wells;
• Issue rules and regulations for reservoir operations;
• Approve transfer of water from one river basin to another;
• Coordinate data collection, research and manpower development;
• Impose penalties for administrative violations;
• Impose and collect reasonable fees or charges for water resource development;
• Approve rules and regulations prescribed by other government agencies pertaining to the utilization, exploitation, development, control, conservation or protection of water resources;
• Adjudicate all disputes relating to appropriation, utilization, exploitation, development, control, conservation and protection of waters

The NWRB is also mandated, under Republic Act No. 9275, otherwise known as the “Clean Water Act” to designate water quality management areas, in coordination with Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

In the exercise of its resource regulatory functions, the NWRB is assisted by deputized agents all-over the country, which include:

• District Engineering Offices of the Department of Public Works and Highways;
• Provincial Irrigation Engineering Offices of the National Irrigation Administration;
• Regional Managers of the National Power Corporation; and
• General Managers of Water Districts.