bettergovph/raw-philippine-data huggingface dataset:
-. 
-Sermtl' 
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
(~ffltt llf t~" j,"rrtt.1f"~ 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
'13 
AUG 29 [>5 :05 
SENATE 
S. No. 1436 
RECEIVE!> IH':-p 
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
In 1994, Congress passed the "Anti-Sexual Harassment Act of 1995," which declared acts 
of sexual harassment against women and men unlawful in the workplace, schools, and training 
institutions. Section 7 of the said Act stipulates that any person who violates the provisions of the 
Act shall be penalized by imprisonment of not less one (l) month nor more than six (6) months; 
or a fine of not less than Ten thousand pesos (PIO,OOO.OO) or more than Twenty thousand pesos 
(P20,OOO.OO), or both at the discretion of the cOUli. 
The Anti-Sexual Harassment act initially received positive response and gave a glimpse 
of hope to prevent discrimination in the workplace, particularly against women in the labor 
sector. However, after almost two decades of implementation, cases of sexual harassment, 
especially in workplaces, still persist. Apparently, the existing penalty is not enough to curb the 
incidence of sexual harassment. Thus, there is a pressing need to increase the penalties to deter 
perpetrators fTom committing the act: 
(L.Q-~'v ~...-;~ 
MIRIAM DEF",SOR SANTI/JO 
~ " 
~ ''-'''~'''''''''1, _ 
• This bill was originally filed in the Thirteenth Congress, Third Regular Session. 
I 


SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
~ClUlh> 
lOth;r Ilf Ille Srrubr, 
First Regular Session 
) 
'13 
AUG 29 P 5 :05 
1 
2 
3 
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago 
AN ACT 
AMENDING SECTION 7 OF REPUBLIC ACT 7877, 
ALSO KNOWN AS THE "ANTI-SEXUAL HARASSMENT ACT OF 1995" 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
4 
SECTION 1. Republic Act No. 7877, also known as the "Anti-Sexual Harassment Act of 
5 
1995," Section 7 is hereby amended to read as follows: 
6 
"Section 7. Penalties - Any person who violates the provisions of this Act 
7 
shall, upon conviction, be penalized by imprisonment of not less than one (1) 
8 
[month] YEAR nor more than six (6) [months] YEARS, or a fine of not less than 
9 
[Ten thousand pesos (PI0,000)] FIFTY THOUSAND PESOS (P50,000) nor more 
10 
than [Twenty thousand pesos (P20,000)] ONE HUNDRED THOUSAND PESOS 
11 
(PI00,000), or both such fine and imprisonment at the discretion of the court. 
12 
Any action arising from the violation of the provisions of this Act shall 
l3 
prescribe in [three (3)] FIVE (5) years." 
14 
SECTION 2. Repealing Clause. - Any law, presidential decree or issuance, executive 
15 
order, letter of instruction, administrative order, rule, or regulation contrary to or inconsistent 
16 
with the provisions ofthis Act is hereby repealed, modified, or amended accordingly. 
17 
SECTION 3, Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its 
18 
pUblication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved, 
1
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
:.5tft1ni f' 
i~thH nf lIil! >;:' !', ~ rf:u i/: 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
'13 
SEP 11 
P 2 :34 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 1635 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
This bill seeks to repeal the entire Section 90 of Republic Act No. 7160, 
otherwise known as the Local Government Code of 1991, which prohibits and 
limits the practice of profession by elected government officials. 
This particular provision has flagrantly been violated in the desire of 
elected government officials to augment their meager income by practicing their 
respective professions. Understandably, the Department of Interior and Local 
Government has manifestly failed to implement said provision, or enforce its 
faithful observance. 
While the members of the various professions who are elected local 
government officials are apparently allowed or tolerated to practice their 
respective professions, the lawyers on the other hand, appear to be the most 
affected by the prohibition and limitation as provided for under the said provision. 
It is proposed, therefore, to repeal the entire Section 90 of R.A. 7160 so as 
to provide for equality, fairness, and equitable treatment among the professionals 
who are elected local government officials by allowing them to practice their 
respective professions without any discrimination. 
The immediate approval of this bill is recommended. 
GOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
Senator 


SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 163 5 
) 
) 
) 
" 
~r'tl\)h' 
11t)\fltf !~f 1Ip' ~'ll>,nd,'lr'4 
'13 
SEP 11 
P 2 :34 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
REPEALING SECTION 90 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7160, OTHERWISE 
KNOWN AS THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT CODE OF 1991, PROHIBITING AND 
LIMITING THE PRACTICE OF PROFESSION BY ELECTED LOCAL 
GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Section 90 of Republic Act No. 7160, otherwise known as the 
Local Government Code of 1991, prohibiting and limiting the practice of 
profession by elected local government officials, is hereby repealed. 
SEC 2. This Act shall take effect upon its approval. 
Approved,
, -
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
SENATE 
il>trwtr 
41i)Ht:1' nf t~~ >rrn'lt,IJrV 
"n 
SEP -4 A9 :31 
Senate Bill No. 1511 
~:\, V}) !-lY' )V 
.~ ~ -. "---r;-
~ 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Section 28, Article II of the 1987 Constitution provides that the State adopts and 
implements a policy of full public disclosure of all its transactions involving public 
interests. 
This bill proposes the repeal of Presidential Decree No. 1177 otherwise known 
as "Revising the Budget Process in Order to Institutionalize the Budgetary 
Innovations of the New Society", as amended, and the re-institution of line-item 
budgeting as the budgetary process of the National Government, where all 
programs and projects, together with their specific funding allocations, will appear 
in the General Appropriations Act after thorough deliberations by Congress. With 
this legislative proposal, full transparency in the national budget will be ensured. 
The immediate approval of this bill is earnestly requested. 
GOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
Senator 


SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 1511 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
~l'tHdr 
(t)fh;r {If Hlf ~t'ftl'taf~ 
'13 
SEP -4 A 9 :31 
INSTITUTING LINE ITEM BUDGETING IN THE BUDGETARY PROCESS OF 
THE GOVERNMENT, REPEALING FOR THIS PURPOSE PRESIDENTIAL 
DECREE 1177, AS AMENDED 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines 
in Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Title. - This Act shall be known as the "Line Item Budgeting Act 
0'2013". 
SEC 2. Line Item Budgeting. - Upon the approval of this Act, all programs and 
projects of the National Government, with their respective funding allocations, 
shall appear in the annual General Appropriations Act. 
Corollary to the foregoing, all revenues and funds accruing to the National 
Government shall be deposited to the National Treasury, and shall be reviewed 
by the Congress. 
SEC 3. Repealing Clause. - Presidential Decree No. 1177 otherwise known as 
"Revising the Budget Process in Order to Institutionalize the Budgetary 
Innovations of the New Society", as amended, and all laws, decrees, executive 
orders, rules and regulations or parts thereof which are inconsistent with the 
provision of this Act, are hereby repealed and I or modified accordingly. 
SEC 4. 
Separability Clause. - In case any provision of this Act is declared 
unconstitutional or invalid, the other provisions hereof which are not affected 
thereby shall continue in full force and effect. 
SEC 5. Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect thirty (30) days after its publication 
in at least two (2) national newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
SENATE OF THE PHILIPPINES 
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 1220 
'13 
IlLIG -6 P 4 :'53 
Introduced by SENATOR JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Consistent with the promotion and enhancement of local financial 
autonomy, this proposed measure seeks to amend Section 293 of Republic Act 
7160, otherwise known as the Local Government Code of the Philippines. 
As proposed, this bill seeks to mandate the national government for the 
direct remittance to the local government of its 40% share of the proceeds 
derived from mining taxes, royalties, forestry and fishery charges, and such 
other taxes, fees, including related surcharges, interests, or fines and from its 
share in any co-production, joint-venture or production-sharing agreement in 
the utilization and development of national wealth within their territorial 
jurisdiction. Thus, the local government units would no longer beg for projects 
to the Department of Budget and Management. 
This legislative measure once approved would expand the fiscal resource 
of the local government units. Hence, the passage of this bill is fervently 
sought. 
. 
• 
----<3 G-=- .' 
JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO 


SENATE OF THE PHILIPPINES 
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 
.s 1':1 )1 t !' 
"e,Hi,;r 11f till' :~'r{\ rt!lr~ 
'13 
IIUG -6 P 4 :53 
1220 
Introduced by SENATOR JOSEPH VICTOR G, EJERCITO 
AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE DIRECT REMITTANCE TO THE HOST 
LOCAL GOVERNMENT OF ITS FORTY PERCENT (40%) SHARE OF THE 
PROCEEDS DERIVED FROM THE UTILIZATION AND DEVELOPMENT OF 
NATIONAL WEALTH, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SECTION 293 OF 
REPUBLIC ACT NO, 7160, AS AMENDED, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE 
"LOCAL GOVERNMENT CODE OF 1991" 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Section 293 of Republic Act No. 7160, as amended, 
otherwise known as the "Local Government Code of 1991", is hereby amended 
to read as follows: 
"SEC. 293. Remittance of the Share of Local Government Units. - The share 
of local government units from the utilization and development of national 
wealth shall be remitted in accordance with Section 286 of this Code: Provided, 
however, That ANY PERSON, NATURAL OR JURIDICAL, INCLUDING [in the 
case of any) government agency or government-owned or -controlled 
corporation engaged in the utilization and development of the national wealth, 
[such share) shall [be) directly remit[ted) to the proyincial, city, municipal or 
barangay treasurer, OF THE HOST LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNIT concerned 
ITS FORTY PERCENT (40%) SHARE DERIVED FROM NATIONAL WEALTH 
TAXES UNDER SECTION 290 OF THIS CODE AND THE REMAINING SIXTY 
PERCENT (60%) TO THE NATIONAL GOVERNMENT [within five (5) days after 
the end of each quarter)." 
SECTION 2. All laws, decrees, orders, rules and regulations or parts 
thereof inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are hereby amended or 
modified accordingly. 


SECTION 3. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its 
publication in any newspaper of general circulation. 
Approved,
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILLIPNES 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S,B. No, 1019 
Introduced by Senator Ramon Bong Revilla, Jr. 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Slnmtl' 
(~ffil~r llf Ill!":' ';~f'" .. hlf~ 
'13 
JUL 22 P 3 :03 
The Concepcion District Hospital has had a bed capacity of fifty for the past 18 
years now, since it was increased from twenty five beds by virtue of Republic Act 7224 
in 1992. It has been over 18 years since that time and the population of Concepcion has 
increased significantly. The meager 50 beds is not nearly enough to address the 
number of patients serviced by the hospital. 
Aside from the residents of Concepcion, the hospital also provides medical 
assistance, treatment and services emergency cases from neighboring municipalities 
such as La Paz, Capas and Bamban. Pursuant to public service through legislation, I 
believe it is high time that we pass this bill in order to alleviate the plight of our needy 
fellowmen in Tarlac. 
For the reasons stated above, the passage of this measure is urgently sought. 


SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILLIPNES 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S.B. No. 1019 
'1) 
JUL 22 P 3 :03 
REeF',', "''''-f-
Introduced by Senator Ramon Bong Revilla, Jr. 
AN ACT 
INCREASING THE BED CAPACITY OF THE CONCEPCION DISTRICT HOSPITAL IN 
THE MUNICIPALITY OF CONCEPCION, PROVINCE OF TARLAC FROM FIFTY (50) 
TO ONE HUNDRED (100) BEDS, AND APPRORPIATING FUNDS THEREFOR 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. The bed capacity of Concepcion District Hospital in the MuniCipality 
of Concepcion, Province of Tarlac, is hereby increased from Fifty (50) to one hundred 
beds (100). 
, 
SECTION 2. The amount necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act shall 
be included in the General Appropriations Act of the year following its enactment. 
SECTION 3. Any law which is inconsistent with the proviSions of this Act shall be 
deemed repeal. . 
SECTION 4. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication. 
Approved,
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 1663 
) 
) 
) 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
'13 
SEP 16 P3 :10 
It is noticeable that one of the social and health selVices that our 
government continues to disregard is the availability of clean and sanitary public 
restrooms, especially in the Metropolis. More often than not, a person will have 
to go to a nearby mall, hotel, restaurant or any establishment in order to access a 
public restroom. 
While Section 15, . Article tI of the 1987 Constitution provides that "the 
State shall protect and promote the right to health of people and instill health 
consciousness among them," there is a need to construct clean and odorless 
restrooms not only along the national highways but also in public areas in cities 
and towns throughout the country. 
Hence, the passage of this bill is earnestly sought. 
OY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
Senator 


SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. Hi 6 3 
) 
) 
) 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
.,3 
SEP 16 P 3 :1 0 
PROVIDING FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF PUBLIC RESTROOMS 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. It is the policy of the State to provide public restrooms in 
designated public areas, in the cities and towns of the country as well as along 
the national highways to ensure access and use of clean and sanitary facilities. 
SEC. 2. The construction and maintenance of the public restroom shall be 
the responsibility of the local government units (LGUs) provided that along the 
national highways, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) shall 
be responsible for the construction of said facilities. 
SEC. 3. To maintain and keep the public restrooms, reasonable fees may 
be charged for their use. 
SEC. 4. The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) in 
coordination with the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Department of 
Health (DOH) shall promulgate the rules and regulations to implement the 
provisions of this Act including the fees to be charged, the cost and type of 
construction and the maintenance and upkeep of facilities. 
SEC. 5. 
The amount necessary for the construction of the public 
restrooms under this Act shall be included in the respective budgets of the local 
government units (LGUs), DILG and DPWH as may be provided in the 
implementing rules and regulations. 
SEC. 6. All laws or parts thereof inconsistent with any provisions of this 
Act shall be deemed repe'aled or modified as the case may be. 
SEC. 7. This Act shall take effect after publication in two (2) newspapers 
of general circulation. 
Approved,
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
'\3 
AOO -8 P2:47 
SENATE 
S. No. 
125~~ 
, 
.... 
+-
RECi'.l',T ~) BY: 
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Sugar smuggling continues to be a lucrative underground business because existing laws 
provide a loophole for the reintroduction of confiscated smuggled sugar into the market. 
According to the National Federation of Sugarcane Planters, Inc., smuggled sugar which 
is confiscated by the Bureau of Customs is immediately classified by the Sugar Regulatory 
Administration as "D" or World Market Sugar so that it can be shipped out of the country. A 
public auction is then conducted by the Bureau of Customs. Since the confiscated sugar is 
classified as "D" sugar, it is also sold at "D" or world sugar prices, which are just one-third of 
domestic sugar prices. The Federation states that this is where sugar smugglers are able to 
reacquire their wares and sell it domestically, where prices are four times of world market prices. 
By eliminating this loophole, we would help curb the reportedly rampant smuggling in sugar: 
• This bill was originally filed in the Foutteenth Congress, Second Regular Session. 
1 


I 
2 
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago 
AN ACT 
PROVIDING FOR THE DISPOSITION OF SMUGGLED SUGAR 
'13 Alii -6 P2:47 . 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
assembled: 
3 
SECTION L Declaration of Policy. - It is hereby declared a State policy that in no 
4 
instance and under no condition shall the sale or resale of confiscated smuggled sugar in the 
5 
custody of the Bureau of Customs be allowed. 
6 
SECTION 2. Mode of Disposition - No other method of disposition of confiscated 
7 
smuggled sugar in the custody of the Bureau of Customs shall be allowed except dumping them 
8 
into the sea in the presence of witnesses consisting of representatives from the Sugar Regulatory 
9 
Administration, Sugar Industry, and other concerned parties. 
10 
SECTION 3. Repealing Clause. - All laws, decrees, orders, rules, and regulations or 
II 
parts thereof inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are hereby repealed, amended, or 
12 
modified accordingly. 
13 
SECTION 4. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect after fifteen (15) days 
14 
following its publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved, 
1
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC) 
OF THE PHI.L1PPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 150 9 
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{elf,;, <Jf til' j.""brv 
'13 
SEP -4 /\ 9 :29 
INTRODuceD gy SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
This bill seeks to amend Republic Act 9184, otherwise known as the Government 
Procurement Act, by withdrawing from its application and coverage. all references 
to the local government units. 
Procurement of infrastructure projects, goods and consulting services by the 
loo!;!1 gov~rmn~nt ynit$ $h!;!11 b~ gov~rn~g by Titl~ ~ix, !300K Two Of R~pYblic Ac~ 
7160, otherwise known as the Local Government Code. 
Procurement system in the local government units should be governed by Local 
Government Code, which has provided the detailed process of supply 
management at the local levels. 
In view of the foregoing, the passage of this bill is earnestly requested. 
OY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
Senator 
(. ! 


SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC) . 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 1509 
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d}Hf;r ~f file ,}r("1'P'hlfU 
·13 
SEP -4 A 9 :29 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
AMENDING 
REPUBLIC 
ACT 
9184, 
OTHERWISE 
KNOWN 
AS 
THE 
GOVERNMENT PROeUREMENT REFORM Ae-r, WITHDRAWING FROM ITS 
APPLICATION ALL REFERENCES TO THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines 
in Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. All references to the local government units under the provisions 
of Republic Act 9184; otherwise 'known as the Government Procurement 
Reform Act, are hereby withdrawn from its application and coverage. 
SEC 2. Procurement of infrastructure projects, goods and consulting services 
by the local government units shall be governed by Title Six, Book Two of 
Republic Act 7160, otherwise known as the "Local Government Code of 
1991". 
SEC 3. Repeal. - All laws, decreest ~xecutive orders, rules and regulations or 
parts thereof which are inconsisten~.with the provisions of this Act, are hereby 
repealed and/or modified accOrdini!Y: 
SEC 4. Separability Clause. - In case any provision of this Act is declared 
unconstitutional or invalid, the other provisions hereof which are not affected 
thereby shall continue in full force and effect. 
SEC 5. 
Effectivity. -
This Act shall take effect thirty (30) days after its 
publication in two (2) newspapers Qf general circulation, 
Approved,
. \ 
.§1't11l tl' 
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
Iliff,;, "I tll,~"rp"rv 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
'13 
AUG 29 PS :08 
SENfi38 
S.No. ___ _ 
REf'F!VED B\,:+ ' 
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Civil Code, Article 781, provides: 
The inheritance of a person includes not only the property and the 
transmissible rights and obligations existing at the time of his death but also those 
which have accrued thereto since the opening of the succession. 
The provision has no significance. Even without this provision, those fruits and 
accessions of inherited properties which accrue after the death of the decedent will still belong to 
the heirs who inherit the properties. The acquisition of these fruits and accessions by the heirs is 
no longer through succession, but as owners of the propeliies to which they accrue. 
Article 781 should be repealed because it serves no purpose and adds confusion to the 
law on succession.' 
(J,,~..... 4¥-..-);...4; 
MIRIAM DEF\rSOR SATIAc/J 
()1JI' 
• This bill was originally filed during the Thirteenth Congress, First Regular Session. 
1 


, , , 
£mwtl' 
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
tt)th;r llf HIll ~\'ntb'¥ 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
"13 
AUG 29 P5 :08 
SENf.1Jl 
, 
S.No. 1438 
~ 
__________________________ 
R~ 
.. =~('_F_!\_·_f:O HY:T - I. 
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Sm1tiago 
1 
AN ACT 
2 
REPEALING ARTICLE 781 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 386, ALSO KNOWN AS THE "CIVIL 
3 
CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES", ON THE GROUND OF SUPERl'LUITY 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
4 
SECTION 1. Repealing Clause. - Article 781 of Republic Act No. 386, also known as 
5 
the "Civil Code of the Philippines," is hereby repealed. 
6 
Any law, presidential decree or issuance, executive order, letter of instruction, 
7 
administrative order, rule, or regulation contrary to or inconsistent with this Act is hereby 
8 
repealed, modified, or amended accordingly. 
9 
SECTION 2. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its 
10 
publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
, ' 
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
SENATE 
'senllit 
(~fl,;r of I~" j"".targ 
'13 NIt -1 
P4<,jAf{ 
///~-
RECEI\ 
BV:t" '\ 
_______________________ 
~::..2_=__:...:::~=_= 
I. 
S, No, 
1199 
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Leaving a child unattended in a car can often have tragic consequences, either because 
the child suffers from exposure to excessive heat, is injured when the car is stolen, releases the 
emergency brake, inadvertently starts the car, or puts the car in gear, 
Parents and caregivers know it is not safe to leave children home alone and unattended, 
but they continue to leave children unattended in a car even though it is just as dangerous, or 
more so, Stronger laws will give law enforcement officers a preventive tool with which to work, 
similar to the effect of the seat belt safety law,' 
~'- 4lt . 
.4~ J~~ 
qIlI~MIRIAM DEr~NSOR S~'hlrv 
• This bill was originally filed in the Fourteenth Congress, Second Regular Session, 
1 


, , 
.s,n_' 
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
(tff.; • .,1 lit. >m.l~r~ 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
"13 
~1Jj -1 P 4 :42 
SENATE 
S. No. 1199 
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago 
AN ACT 
1 
2 
PROHIBITING UNATTENDED CHILDREN IN MOTOR VEHICLES 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
assembled: 
3 
SECTION 1. Unattended Children in Motor Vehicles. - A parent, legal guardian, or other 
4 
person responsible for a child or children twelve (12) years of age or younger shall not leave 
5 
such child or children inside a motor vehicle without supervision by a person who is sixteen (16) 
6 
years of age or older under one or more of the following circumstances: 
7 
(A) Under conditions presenting a significant risk to the child's health or safety; 
8 
(B) The engine of the motor vehicle is running; or 
9 
(C) The keys to the motor vehicle are anywhere in the passenger compartment of the 
10 
motor vehicle. 
11 
SECTION 2. Penalty. - Any violation of section 1 of this Act shall be punishable by a 
12 
penalty of Five Thousand Pesos (f1.5,OOO.OO) for the first offense, Ten Thousand Pesos 
13 
(f1.10,OOO.OO) for the second offense, and confiscation of the offender's driver's license and a fine 
14 
of Fifty Thousand Pesos (f1.50,OOO.OO) upon the third and final offense. 
15 
SECTION 3. Separability Clause. -
If any provision of this Act is declared 
16 
unconstitutional or invalid, the other sections or provisions hereof which are not affected thereby 
17 
shall continue to be in full force and effect. 
1 


· . 
1 
SECTION 4. Repealing Clause. - All laws, decrees, orders, rules, and regulations or 
2 
parts thereof inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are hereby repealed, amended, or 
3 
modified accordingly. 
4 
SECTION 5. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect after fifteen (15) days 
5 
following its publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved, 
2
SIXIJ.:LNTII CONCJJ,I':SS ()[! '1'1 IF IWl'LJBLlC 
) 
01' '1'111,: I'IIIJ.II'I'INI':S 
) 
I;;rstl,egular Scssion 
) 
'13 
OCt -3 "2:)t 
SLNAIE 
S. No .. 19~t3 
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defcnsor Santiago 
'~~,,'-- -
--~-
I':XI'J.ANATORY NOTI\ 
Republie Act No. 7154, also known as the "Postal Service Act of 1992," retained the 
fnlnking privileges ol'Scnators and Members oflhe House of Representatives, as provided for by 
Republic Act No. W. 
Ilowcver, R.A. No. ()9 
1~lils to provide guidelines for the proper use of franking 
privileges. Thus, the privilege is exposed to potential <lbuse. To prevent abuse, this bill regulates 
tlte legislative Ji'anking l)I'ivilegc . 
• This bill was rc-rilcd duril1g the Thirteenth Congress, First Regul(lr Session. 


" 
SIXTI·:J·:N'II I CONCiRI·:SS OF TIIL( RI':I'IJllLIC 
) 
Ol! '1111·: I'IIILlI'I'INJo:S 
) 
First I{egular Session 
) 
13 lIe -3 P2 :31 
SJo:NATE 
s. No.~1993_ 
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago 
I 
AN ACT 
2 
RJo:()ULAIINC) '1111': USI·: OF l!RANKlNe; PRIVILLGFS BY TlIl\ MEMBERS OJ! THE 
J 
SI·:NAII·: AND TI JE IIOUSI·: OF REPRESENTATIVES 
lie it en([cled "y Ihe 8el1111e lind Ihe HOllse oj'Represenlalives I!/Ihe Philippines in 
Congress asselllhied: 
4 
SITTION I. Shorl 'I'ille. - This Act maybe cited as thc "Franking Privilege Regulation 
5 
Act." 
6 
SECTION 2. 
iJec/llraliol1 oj'Slale I'o/icy. -- It is hereby declared a slale policy to 
7 
regulate Ihe li'anking privilege of'membcrs oC(he legislature in order to preven( its abuse. 
SI·:CTION 1. FrankuMe ivlail ivfaller. - .. Frankablemail maller" specifically includes, 
l) 
but is not lilllited (0 
10 
(A) 
Mail Illallcr (0 any person and to all agencies and officials of thc national and 
II 
local governmenls regarding programs, decisions, and other relalcd maUers of public concern or 
12 
public service, including any malleI' rclating to aclions of a past or current Congress; 
IJ 
(I \) 
The uSllal cuslomary congressional ncwsleller or press relcasc which may dcal 
14 
with sllcil lllutters (IS the impact or !<-nvs and decisions on national and local governments and 
15 
individual cilizcns, rcports on public and olTicial actions taken by Members of Congress, and 
16 
discllssions 01' proposcd or pending legislation or governmental actions and the positions or the 
17 
Mel1lbers o[,Congrcss Otl, and arguments Cot' or against, such InaUers. 


" 
SI':< TION 4, SC/Ju/'(/hiiily ('{allse, 
II' 'Illy provision or pan licrcui' is iJeld invalid or 
2 
unconstitutional, thc rell1ainder of the law or the provision not otherwise alTected shall remam 
3 
valid and subsisting, 
4 
SFC,(,ION 5, 1I,:;)eaiing Clause, . Any law, presidential decree or issuance, executive 
5 
order, letter oj' instruction, administrative order, rule, or regulation eontrary to or inconsistent 
(, 
with the provisions oi'this Aet is hereby repealcd, tllodilled, or amended accordingly, 
7 
SI':CTION (>. 'U/edivily Clause" 
This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days ailcr its 
R 
publication in al ieasl two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
/\ pproveci, 
2
.-
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) . 
First Regular Session 
) 
SENATE 
S. No. 
1450 
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
'settntt 
"if,;. "f til' ~"rPlnrf 
"13 
AUG 29 f'5 :18 
Intriguing against honor is punished under Article 364 of the Penal Code, which 
provides: 
Article. 364. Intriguing against honor. -
The penalty of arresto menor or 
fine not exceeding 200 pesos shall be imposed for any intrigue which has for its 
principal purpose to blemish the honor or reputation of a person. 
Intriguing against honor is any scheme or plot designed to blemish the reputation of a 
person by means which consist of some trickery. It is akin to slander by deed, in that the offender 
does not avail directly of written or spoken words, pictures, or caricatures to ridicule the victim 
but of some ingenious, crafty, and secret plot which produces the same effect. 
This crime has been committed by many people due to the flimsy penalty attached to the 
crime. Because of the light penalty, the law has not served as a deterrent This bilI seeks to 
increase the penalty for the crime of ihtriguing against honor.' 
"This bill was originally filed in the third regular session of the 14th Congress. 


----> , 
l. 
~St'tUTtl' 
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
(,ft." ,,[ tll< _;t.rrr.ln,. 
OF THE PI-IILlPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
'1) 
AUG 29 P5 :18 
SENA,TI;; 
S. No. 
1150 
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago 
RECl"IVF!) BY:-f- ( 
1 
AN ACT 
2 
AMENDING ARTICLE 364 OF ACT NO. 3815, AS AMENDED, OTHERWISE 
3 
KNOWN AS THE PENAL CODE 
4 
5 
6 
7 
8 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION I. Article 364 of Act No. 3815, as amended, otherwise known as the Penal 
Code, is hereby amended to read as follows: 
Article 364. intriguing against honor. -- The penalty of arresto MAYOR 
. [menorJ or fine not exceeding 5000 [200) pesos shall be imposed for any intrigue 
which has for its principal pUl'pose to blemish the honor or reputation of a person. 
9 
SECTION 2. Separability Clause. - If any provision or part thereof is held invalid or 
10 
unconstitutional, the remainder of the law or the provision not otherwise affected shall remain 
11 
valid and sUbsisting. 
12 
SECTION 3 
Repealing Clause. - Any law, presidential decree or issuance, executive 
13 
order, letter of instruction, administrative order, rule, or regulation contrary to or inconsistent 
14 
with the provisions ofthis Act is hereby repealed, modified, or amended accordingly. 
15 
SECTION 4. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its 
16 
publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved, 
1
..... 
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
1I1f'; •• f tho :iom,lliq 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
13 {lUG -8 P2:43 
SENI\1:E 
S. No.1;::; 217 
RECEi\ J'p BY: 
.~ \.
----------------------------==-=-::.=.::.-'--'-- V" '
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Constitution, Article 2, Section 16 provides: 
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. 
The proximity of landfills/garbage dumps to public or private educational institutions is a 
vital concern to the safety and health of students. Prohibiting the issuance of permits for landfills 
within twenty kilometers of educational institutions allows for a safe environment essential for 
learning. 
This bill would ensure that the experience of University of the Philippines Los Banos as 
regards a neighboring dumpsite will not be replicated elsewhere. The one-hectare open dumpsite 
in Los Banos, Laguna is located at the buffer zone of the Mt. Makiling Forest Reserve between 
the Saran Creek and a private propelty along the Jamboree site and National Road: 
Lw" 4 ~.~~ Jf,d 
~.MIRIAM DEF~NSOR s'J~fm(Jo 
• This bill was originally filed in the Fourteenth Congress, Second Regular Session. 
1 


.ifltat. 
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
(flf,;. of I~. j"rr'-, 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
'1) Alii -8 P2:43 
SEN~JE 
S. No. 
1~4 7 
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago 
I 
AN ACT 
2 
PROHIBITING LANDFILLS/GARBAGE DUMPS NEAR EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
assembled: 
3 
SECTION 1. Prohibition. - No permit for a landfill/garbage dump shall be issued when 
4 
its premises or portion thereof is located within twenty (20) kilometers of a public or private 
5 
institution of elementary, secondary, or higher education. 
6 
SECTION 2. Repealing Clause. - All laws, decrees, orders, rules, and regulations or 
7 
pm1s thereof inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are hereby repealed, amended or 
8 
modified accordingly. 
9 
SECTION 3. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect after fifteen (IS) days 
10 
following its publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved, 
I
QYt/m,. Y~mt ~~ 
SENATOR 
15 August 2013 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
SENATE 
PASAYCITY 
MS. MA. ANTONIETTE ARISTOZA 
Service Chief, Legislative Bills and Index Service 
Senate of the Philippines 
Dear Ms. Arisl"oza: 
'13 
IIUG '15 
On behalf of our principal, Senator Loren Legarda, we respectfully request that the 
following bills and resolution be withdrawn from the official list filed by her on 
account of double filing: 
• 
Senate Bill No. J 188 - An Act Providing for the Establishment of Barangay 
Drugstores, Otherwise known as "Botica sa Barangay" and for Other Purposes; 
Senate Bill No. 1189· "An Act Amending Certain Sections of Republic Act No. 
7309, Entitled, "An Act Creating a Board of Claims under the Department of 
Justice for Victims of Unjust Imprisonment or Detention and Victims of Violent 
Crimes and for Other Purposes"; and 
• 
Senate Resolution No. 134 - "Urging President Benigno S. Aquino to Declare the 
Year 2013 as the Year of the Overseas Filipino Workers in Recognition of their 
Courage, Determination and Self Sacrifice for the Sake of their Families and of 
the Nation at Large". 
We look forward to your kind action on this matter. 
Very tl'lll Y yours, 
1f/h-/ 
R 
'HEL ~UGAN HERRERA 
Cl ief Legal Counsel 
Room 209 Senate of the Philippines, G81S Building, Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City 
Tel. No 552~6601 to 80 Loc 5537· Fax No 833-4987 
WebSite: http://www.lorenlegarda.com.ph • e-mail: loren@lorenlegarda.com ph 
") r-
::~j6
'. 
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
'13 
Gei -3 P6 :02 
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Civil Code, Article 1991, provides: 
Article 1991. The depositor's heir who in good faith may have sold the 
thing which he did not know was deposited, shall only be bonnd to return the 
price he may have received or to assign his right of action against the buyer in 
case the price has not been paid by him. 
The law incorrectly uses the term "depositor." It was intended to apply in this instance 
the depositary who dies and the thing deposited is left with his heir who sells it in good faith. It 
limits the heir's liability to the depositor. 
To give Article 1991 its desired effect, "depositor's" must be replaced with 
"depositary's.'" 
~'"-
4~,~~ J~~ 
. MIRIAM DEF~NSOR S'f'..~TIrv 
f)II1 
, 
• This bill was originally filed during the Thirteenth Congress, First Regular Session. 
1 


SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
SENATE 
S. No. 
1822 
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago 
£'Ciwt,' 
(~th;t llf tip) ~,tnj>ht'~ 
'13 
OCT -3 P 6 :02 
1 
AN ACT 
2 
AMENDING REPUBLIC ACT NO. 386, ALSO KNOWN AS THE CIVIL CODE OF THE 
3 
PHILIPPINES, ARTICLE 1991, ON REPLACING THE WORD "DEPOSITOR'S" WITH 
4 
"DEPOSITARY'S" IN ORDER FOR THE LAW TO REFLECT ITS INTENDED MEANING 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
5 
SECTION 1. The Civil Code of the Philippines, Article 1991, is hereby amended to read 
6 
as follows: 
7 
"Article 1991. The [depositor's) DEPOSITARY'S heir who in good faith' 
8 
may have sold the thing which he did not know was deposited, shall only be 
9 
bound to return the price he may have received or to assign his right of action 
10 
against the buyer in case the price has not been paid by him." 
II 
SECTION 2. Repealing Clause. - Any law, presidential decree or issuance, executive 
12 
order, letter of instruction, administrative order, rule, or regulation contrary to or inconsistent 
13 
with the provisions of this Act is hereby repealed, modified, or amended accordingly. 
14 
SECTION 3. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its 
15 
publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved, 
I
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
'1] 
NOV 27 P 3 :30 . 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. _1_9_81 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The first successful defense of the Philippine freedom against foreign 
invaders and the first recorded triumph of the Filipino forces over superior western 
firepower took place in the historic battle of Mactan four hundred eighty nine (489) 
years ago. 
This victory in April 27, 1521 catapulted Lapu-Lapu, the King of Mactan, into 
the limelight of history as the first Filipino and Southeast Asian Hero. 
If the nations celebrated the defeat and surrender of U.S. and Filipino 
forces in Bataan and Corregidor on April 9 of each year, then there is more reason 
to commemorate the successful exploit of Lapu-Lapu and his Warriors on April 27 
of every year. 
Therefore, passage of this bill is earnestly sought. . 
OY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
Senator 


SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
"13 
tilV 27 P 3 :30 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 1981 
ItE('EIVEIJ nV:_-f 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
. AN ACT 
TO DECLARE APRIL 27 OF EVERY YEAR AS A SPECIAL NON-WORKING 
HOLIDAY THROUGHOUT THE COUNTRY TO COMMEMORATE THE VICTORY 
OF LAPU-LAPU AND HIS MEN OVER THE SPANIARDS LED BY FERNANDO 
MAGALLANES IN THE HISTORIC BATTLE OF MACTAN ON APRIL 27, 1521, 
TO BE KNOWN AS "LAPU-LAPU DAY" OR "ADLAW NI LAPU-LAPU" 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. The twenty-seventh (2ih) day of April of every year is hereby 
declared 
as 
a special 
non-working 
holiday throughout the 
country to 
commemorate the victory of Lapu-Lapu and his men over the Spaniards in the 
historic battle of Mactan on April 17, 1521 to be known as "Lapu-Lapu Day" or 
"Ad law ni Lapu-Lapu". 
SEC. 2. 
To ensure a meaningful observance of the holiday as herein 
declared, all heads of government agencies and instrumentalities, including 
government owned and controlled corporations as well as local government units, 
and employers in the private sector shall encourage and afford sufficient time and 
participate in any activity conducted in their respective localities to celebrate Lapu-
Lapu Day or Adlaw ni Lapu-Lapu. 
SEC. 3. 
This Act shall take effect three days (3) days following its 
publication in at least two (2) national newspapers of general circulations or in the 
Official Gazette. 
Approved,
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
"13 
JUL 24 ? Ii :37 
SENATE 
"\" f-
. " 
, "---
SENATE BILL NO. 1097 
"\"'1< 
INTRODUCED BY SENATOR JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) reported an 
alarming increase in the incidence of theft of mobile phones, commonly 
known as cellphone snatching, thereby adversely affecting the personal 
security of our people and their means of communication. 
There is an urgent need to protect our people from cellphone 
snatchers as well as thieves of other related gadgets such as personal 
digital assistants and laptop or notebook computers which are devices 
for information and communication. 
This bill seeks to provide stiffer penalties for crime of theft and 
robbery of portable communication devices such as cellphones, personal 
digital assistants, portable computers, two-way radios and other portable 
communication equipment. 
In view of the foregoing, approval of this bill is earnestly sought . 
.. 
JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO 


SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE BILL NO. 1097 
~\fll',l'Jl-
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.
• ~ 
I, 
dHf'H tlf ttl" ,ir~", d~r~ 
INTRODUCED BY SENATOR JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO 
AN ACT 
PROVIDING STIFFER PENALTIES FOR CRIME OF THEFT AND 
ROBBERY OF PORTABLE COMMUNICATION DEVICES 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the 
Philippines in Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Short Title. - This Act shall be known as the "Anti· 
Theft and Robbery of Portable Telecommunication Devices Act of 
2013." 
SEC. 2. Definition. - Portable telecommunication device shall refer 
to cellular telephones, personal digital assistants, portable computers, 
two-way very high frequency (VHF) or ultra high frequency (UHF) radios 
and other portable communication equipments utilized to transmit 
messages, documents, photos, images, videos, or information through 
air, radio or satellite frequencies. 
SEC. '3. Penal Provision. - Any person convicted of the crime of 
theft and robbery as defined under chapters one and three of Title Ten of 
the Revised Penal Code of a portable telecommunication device shall be 
punished by the penalty next higher in degree than those respectively 
specified in the aforementioned articles; Provided, that the additional 
penalty specified herein shall no longer be made applicable if the 
imposable penalty is in its maximum period. 
SEC. 4. Repealing Clause. - All laws, decrees, orders, rules and 
regulations or other issuances or parts thereof inconsistent with the 
provision of this Act are hereby repealed or modified accordingly. 
SEC.. 5. Separability Clause. - If my portion of this Act is 
declared unconstitutional, the remainder of this Act or any provision not 
affected thereby shall remain in force and effect. 
SEC. 6. Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect after fifteen (15) 
days following the completion of its publication either in the Official 
Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation in the Philippines. 
Approved,
,. 
Republic of the Philippines 
SENATE OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Pasay City 
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS 
First Regular Session 
S. B. Nq, a.uB 
~en:dt 
(~Ht;i.' of Hlt< ~~fn?ha ~ 
'13 
NOV -7 P5 :19 
.J~ 
INTRODUCED BY SENATOR SONNY ANGARA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Ties between Filipino and Chinese communities have already lasted a little more 
than a millennium. With links dating as early as 972 AD, the two nations have long 
traded in goods and commodities, but also ih knowledge and ideas. 
Generations of Chinese have assimilated themselves since. By some estimates, 
ethnic Chinese comprised around 1.6 percent of the Philippine population in 2005, with 
Filipinos of Chinese ancestry accounting for as much as 25 percent. 
, 
The Chinese-Filipino community is invariably a vital component to Philippine 
history, culture and economic development, as shown in their varied contributions to 
society-from trade and commerce to civic organizations and community-building 
initiatives. 
This bill seeks to recognize these contributions and formally respect the long-
held traditions of the Chinese-Filipino Community, by declaring the celebration of 
Chinese New Year as a Special N on-Working Holiday. 
By underscoring how Chinese-Filipinos have played (and continue to play) a 
vital role in Filipino history and nation-building, this measure also fulfils the mandate 
of the state "to foster the preservation, enrichment and dynamic evolution of a Filipino 
national culture based on the principle of unity in diversity" as enshrined in Article 
XIV, Section 4 of the Philippine Constitution. 
Swift passage of this measure is therefore sought. 
0'~ 
/ 
SENA;t8'R~;; ANGARA 


SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
S. B. No. 1908 
INTRODUCED BY SENATOR SONNY ANGARA 
AN ACT 
'13 
NOV -7 P 5 :1 8 
DECLARING THE CHINESE NEW YEAR A SPECIAL NON-WORKING PUBLIC 
HOLIDAY IN THE PHILIPPINES 
Be it enacted in the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
assembled: 
Session 1. Dedarati'on of P~licy. It is hereby declared a policy of the government to 
recognize the great contributions of the Chinese-Filipino in Philippine society and their 
cultural traditions. 
Session 2. Special Non-Working Public Holiday. The Chinese New Year is hereby 
declared a special non-working public holiday in the whole country every year. 
Session 3. Implementing Rules and Regulations. The Department of the Labor and 
Employment in consultation with the Federation of Filipino. Chinese Chambers of 
Commerce and Industry, Inc. shall promulgate the rules and regulations to implement 
this Act. 
Session 4. Effectivity. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days upon its publication in 
two newspapers of national circulation. 
Approved,