Republic Act No. 11957

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress assembled:

Section 1. Declaration of Policy

The State recognizes the role of tourism as a driver of economic growth and development and shall, therefore, pursue policies that cultivate, strengthen, and promote the heritage of out tourism destinations. Towards this end, it shall endeavour to underscore and feature the historical significance and origins of our world-renowned tourism destinations.

Section 2

Municipality of Baler in the Province of Aurora as the Birthplace of Philippine Surfing. - In recognition of its status as one of the premiere surfing sites in the country and for earning a significant spot in the history and origin of Philippine surfing, it is hereby declared that the Municipality of Baler in the Province of Aurora be the Birthplace of Philippine Surfing.

Section 3. Repealing Clause

All other laws, acts, presidential decrees, executive orders, presidential proclamations, issuances, rules and regulations, or parts thereof which are contrary to or inconsistent with any of the provisions of this Act are hereby repealed, amended, or modified accordingly.

Section 4

Effectivity. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in the Official Gazette or in two (2) newspapers of general circulation.

Approved:

(SGD.) FERDINAND MARTIN G. ROMUALDEZ Speaker of the House of Representatives	(SGD.) JUAN MIGUEL F. ZUBIRI President of the Senate

This Act was passed by the Senate of the Philippines as Senate Bill No. 1615 on May 8, 2023 and adopted by the House of Representatives as an amendment to House Bill No. 5961 on May 22, 2023.

(SGD.) REGINALD S. VELASCO Secretary General House of Representatives	(SGD.) **RENATO N. BANTUG, JR.**Secretary of the Senate

Approved: Lapsed into law on 06 AUG 2023 Without the signature of the President in accordance with Article VI, Section 27(1) of the Constitution.

FERDINAND ROMUALDEZ MARCOS JR. President of the Philippines