The country’s statutory framework requiring Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for all projects that will affect environmental quality is embodied in Presidential Decree (PD) 1151 of 1977.

The Philippine Environmental Impact Statement System (PEISS) established through Presidential Decree 1586 in 1978 sets a systematic EIA System to ensure that the Filipino people will enjoy a “balanced and healthy ecology” in the midst of intensive economic development.

The PEISS takes its roots in the provisions of the Philippine Constitution which states that “The State shall protect and advance the right of the people to a balanced and healthful ecology in accord with the rhythm and harmony of nature”. 

It requires Environmental Impact Statements (EIS – a Report on the EIA Results)  to be submitted to the National Environmental Protection Council (NEPC), now the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for review and evaluation.

It further stipulates that the President or his duly authorized representative issues the Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) for a positive review of the EIA Report for Environmentally Critical Projects (ECP) and projects within Environmentally Critical Areas (ECA) .