The reorganization of the National Science and Technology Authority (NSTA) into the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) by virtue of Executive Order No. 128 marked the beginning of the Philippine Council for Aquatic and Marine Research and Development. In January 1988, PCAMRD became operational as one of the sectoral planning councils of the DOST. Its primary task is to provide central direction for the country's aquatic and marine resources R&D.