A memorandum of agreement (MOA) is a legal document that outlines the terms and conditions of an agreement between parties. In the Philippines, an MOA is commonly used to establish the right of way (ROW) for infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, and highways.
The right of way refers to the legal right to pass through someone else`s property. It grants the project developer access to a portion of land owned by a private or public entity to construct infrastructure that serves the public interest. Without a ROW agreement, the project developer may not be allowed to access the land, and the project may not be completed.
In the Philippines, the process of obtaining a ROW agreement for infrastructure projects can be challenging. It involves navigating complex laws and regulations across different levels of government, including the barangay, municipality, city, and national levels.
To make the process smoother, the government has introduced the „Ease of Doing Business” law, which aims to streamline government processes and make them more transparent and efficient. This law has encouraged the use of MOAs between project developers and landowners to establish ROW agreements for infrastructure projects.
When drafting an MOA for ROW, there are several crucial elements that the parties involved must consider. Firstly, the document should clearly define the boundaries of the property and the ROW granted. The MOA should also specify the duration of the ROW and any conditions or restrictions on the use of the access. Additionally, the document should state the compensation or payment terms for the use of the land and any damages incurred during the construction phase.
Furthermore, it is essential to ensure that the MOA is compliant with all relevant laws and regulations. The document should be reviewed and signed by all parties, including government agencies involved in the approval process.
In conclusion, a memorandum of agreement for the right of way in the Philippines is critical for the success of infrastructure projects. It establishes the legal right to access land owned by private or public entities and outlines the terms and conditions of the agreement. Complying with the relevant laws and regulations and ensuring clear and concise drafting of the MOA will help ensure efficient and effective implementation of infrastructure projects in the Philippines.