Size limit and classification.
Section 47
SEC. 47. Size limit and classification.—No commercial sponges of less than ten centimeters through any diameter shall be taken from the waters of the Philippine Islands, except for purposes of sponge culture within Philippine waters. All sponges shall be trimmed, after which they shall be assorted as to quality, size, and variety. The whole perfect specimens shall be known as "forms"; those that have imperfections but do not require cutting shall be classified as "seconds"; and those that have crab or coral holes and that are divided into smaller shapes shall be called "cuts". The sizes shall be graded according to the number of pieces required to make a kilogram, that is—if one sponge weighs a kilogram, it will be known as No. 1 grade; if two sponges are required to make a kilogram, they will be known as No. 2 grade; if three sponges are required to make a kilogram, they will be known as No. 3 grade; etc. The size of the sponges shall be determined by passing them through holes or rings of ten centimeters inside diameter, the minimum legal size-limit. The following varieties of sponges can easily be recognized in the Philippines and shall be so marked: Sheepswool sponge, honeycomb sponge, zimocca sponge, sidu sea bath sponge, grass sponge, and elephant-car sponge.