bettergovph/raw-philippine-data huggingface dataset:
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E
s. B. No.___2P,n
BILLS & INDEX
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT
ESTABLISHING AN EDUCATION TRUST FUND FOR GRANTEES OF GSIS AND 
SSS MEMBERS AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
To achieve social justice, social stability, economic development, peace and 
prosperity, one of the most compelling concerns that we must address is the total 
development of the persoii as a functional and productive member of the society.
It is in this light that our Government has long recognized that Education should 
be given the highest priority in terns of State support and State resources. Consequently 
with this prioritization, education has been consistently given the biggest slice of the 
budgetary pie.
Article XIV, Section 1 of the Constitution declares:
"The State shall protect and promote the right of all citizens to 
quality education at all levels and shall take appropriate steps to make 
education accessible to all."
Likewise, Article II, Section 17 of the Constitution also declares:
"The State shall give priority to education, science and technology, 
arts, culture and sports to foster patriotism and rationalism, accelerate 
social progress and promote total human liberation and development."
To achieve our concerns and implement this Constitutional mandate, the State 
shall provide the mechanisms to broaden opportunities to higher education in addition 
to what is already provided for in RA 7722. "The Higher Education Act of 1994," RA 
6728 "The Government Assistance to Students and Teachers in Private Education Act," 
and RA 8392 "The Higher Education Modernization Act of 1998."
Considering that our financial capability as a nation does not permit us to 
subsidize every Filipino child's education from pre-school all the way to college, it is
therefore a fact that government alone can not address the issue of providing education 
for all.
This bill therefore proposes to broaden opportunities and promote education as 
an accessible equalizer through the parhiersliip of Government and the private sector
f.y
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
ni II,,,
'16 JUL20 P3:23
SENATE
S.B. No. 
674
Hi f i
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT
ABOLISHING THE NATIONAL COORDINATING AND MONITORING BOARD AND 
CREATING THE NATIONAL COMMISSION FOR SENIOR CITIZENS, AMENDING 
THEREFOR REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7432, AS AMENDED BY REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9257,AS 
FURTHER AMENDED BY REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9994
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Our Filipino senior citizens have contributed immensely to the growth and 
progress of the country. 
As they reach the twilight of their lives, it is our 
responsibility as a society to ensure their rights and privileges, and that proper 
accommodation is given to them.
To further embolden RA 7432, the Senior Citizens Act of 2015 seeks to 
institutionalize the National Commission foe Senior Citizens (NCSC), which shall have 
the best interests of our country's seniors at heart.
As a national agency, the NCSC will formulate and implement policies, plans, 
and programs that promote senior rights and privileges or address issues plaguing 
the sector.
With sectors such as the youth, women, and persons with disabilities having 
a specialized body catering to their constituents, it is about time that our Filipino 
seniors are awarded their own commission as well to ensure that no Filipino gets left 
behind.
In view of the foregoing, the approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
Senator Paolo Benigno "B aiV ' A. Aquino IV
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S. B. No.
S E N A T E
738
- m
.S c i i . i i r  
• f 'l h t i  of the,?'
'16 
111 ?1 
A1G:37
H U  1
nV:
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT
AMENDING SECTIONS 7,10, 23, 30, 31,42 AND 52 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO.
8291, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE GSIS ACT OF 1997
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This is an amendatory bill, which seeks to propose changes in Republic Act No. 
8291, the law which amended Presidential Decree No. 1146.
The proposed amendments in RA No. 8291, otherwise known as the "GSIS Act of 
1997," as a whole is an effort to redress the said law's ineffective implementation, 
particularly in responding to the needs of teachers who comprise the largest group in 
terms of membership in the GSIS.
Documented reports on discourteous and grossly inefficient services by GSIS 
officials and employees resulting to un-updated records, premiums and loan payments, 
missing submitted records, delayed release of loans/pensions and billing statements, 
unreleased dividends, never issued policy contracts to the newly-hired and insufficient 
information dissemination have reached crisis proportions and to an ever increasing 
distrust and dissatisfaction towards GSIS in the process.
These complaints ranged from policies and rules enacted by the GSIS, which are 
unjust, vague, contrary to law or downright detrimental to the interests of not only 
DepEd (Department of Education) but all its members.
Proposals to amend certain sections in the present law include Sections 7,10 and 
23 if only to recompense the improper computation of service including the charging of 
interests/surcharges/penalties on late remittances. Coverage of benefits by GSIS needs 
to be adjusted to make them at par with the costs of living compounded by the 
escalating inflation rate. Protecting teachers' claims is but one of the purpose of the bill. 
Another additional essential proposal is enhancement to the law's penalty clause to 
ensure that persons may be held accountable for prohibited acts committed.
Second, with the proposed amendment of Sections 30 and 31, it likewise 
broadens the prerogative of concerned parties, especially members, in the settlement of 
disputes covered by the law by giving the Regional Trial Court (RTC) concurrent 
jurisdiction with the GSIS.
Lastly, this bill seeks to increase the representation of the DepEd in the Board of 
Trustees (board).
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
FIRST REGULAR SESSION 
)
SENAT
S. B. NO.
i§85
■ 
lh< 
U l-
•16 jyL26 A9-.36
lU
nv:
INTRODUCED BY SENATOR JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO
AN ACT STRENGTHENING THE POLITICAL PARTY SYSTEM, 
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Over the years the Philippine political party system has been the subject of 
numerous studies, deliberations and debates. It has been characterized as patronage 
and personality oriented instead of interest articulation and aggregation, leadership 
formation, socialization and mobilization. There has been a clamor to institute 
reforms in the Philippine political parties however the bills have never ripened into 
a law. By this end, there is a continuing necessity to pass a legislative measure to 
restructure and reform the political parties to resolve the issues of campaign 
financing, state subsidy to political parties, ban on party switching and turn- 
coatism, and strengthening citizen-parties linkages, to attain a mature and stable 
democracy.
This proposed measure seeks to systematize and regulate the financing of 
electoral campaigns by setting the limits of voluntary contributions to any political 
party, strict registration, accreditation and membership in political parties, to 
promote transparency and fairness. Furthermore, it introduces the State Subsidy 
Fund, which will be used exclusively for party development and campaign 
expenditures of the accredited political parties. This bill also seeks to punish 
political butterflies and turncoats to espouse party allegiance and integrity. 
Particularly, it gives any citizen of voting age to institute a disqualification case 
against turncoats.
sought.
In view of the foregoing considerations, early passage of this bill is earnestly
■CT(c:f
JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES ) 
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E  
S.B. No. 
2 2 9
im
DA'r
INDEX
BILLS
Introduced by Senator FRANKLIN M. DRILON
AN ACT
RATIONALIZING THE GRANT AND ADMINISTRATION OF 
FISCAL INCENTIVES AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The proposed measure seeks to rationalize the fiscal incentives granted to 
business enterprises in the Philippines.
The incentives provided under the proposed measure may be granted by 
the IPAs to the Registered Enterprise to the extent of their registered activities. 
Income derived from non-registered activity or project shall, thus, be subject to 
appropriate taxes under the National Internal Revenue Code, as amended.
Under the bill. Export Enterprises, may enjoy the following incentives:
A. Located Inside an Economic Zone and/or Freeport Zone
1. Income Tax-Based Incentives
PEZA Registered Enterprises
Income Tax Holiday (ITH) for a period not exceeding four (4) years; 
then,
i. 
Five percent (5%) tax on Gross Income Earned (GIE), in 
lieu of all national and local taxes, except Value Added Tax 
(VAT) and Real Property Tax (RPT), for a period not 
exceeding eleven (11) years; or
Fifteen percent (15%) reduced tax on corporate income, in 
lieu of all national and local taxes, except Value Added Tax 
(VAT) and Real Property Tax (RPT), for a period not 
exceeding eleven (11) years.
Five percent (5%) tax on Gross Income Earned (GIE), in lieu of all 
national and local taxes, except Value Added Tax (VAT) and Real 
Property Tax, for a period not exceeding fifteen (15) years; or 
Fifteen percent (15%) reduced tax rate on Corporate Income, in lieu 
of all national and local taxes, except Value-Added Tax (VAT) and ■ 
Real Property Tax (RPT) for a period not exceeding fifteen (15) 
years.
1.1
a.
11.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E
S. B. No. 
279
i/> TIME:
BILLS
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT
TO GRANT MONTHLY PENSION TO GOVERNMENT RETIREES UNDER R.A. 
1616 
WHO 
HAVE 
REACHED 
THE 
AGE 
OF 
SEVENTY 
(70) 
YEARS, 
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
It is the moral obligation of Congress and its members to see to it that the State 
policies, ordained in the Constitution are translatable into tangible pieces of worthy 
legislation, especially. Constitutional injunctions which provides:
The State shall, from time to time, review to upgrade the pension and other 
benefits due to retirees of both government and private sectors (Article XVI, Section 8)."
A survey conducted of retirees who opted to retire under Republic Act No. 1616 
revealed that a majority of this class of retirees has been living in abject poverty, and 
many of them have to depend on dole-outs from close relatives and friends. Aged 
government personnel who retired need monthly pension because at their late age tlieir 
opportunities of earning are already almost nil.
The lump sum they have received from RA 1616 was greatly eroded by economic 
slump and high cost of living. Their economic difficulties were krther aggravated when 
our country suffers from devastating effects of natural calamities.
This Bill proposes the granting of monthly pension to government retirees who 
have availed of retirement benefits under RA 1616 when they reach the age of seventv 
(70).
In view of the foregoing, the immediate passage of this Bill is earnestly 
requested.
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS O F TH E ) 
REPU BLIC O F TH E PH ILIPPIN ES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
'  
(6 f(ire  of
SENATE
s. No. 
931
'1 6  
AUG - 1  
A11 '32
TTF
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto
TWF
AN ACT
REDUCING TH E CIV IL PEN ALTIES AND IN TER EST IM POSED ON TH E FAILURE 
TO  FILE TAX RETURNS AND PAY TH E TAX DUE TH EREO N , AM ENDING FO R 
TH IS PURPOSE SECTIONS 248 AND 249(A) O F TH E NATIONAL INTERNAL 
REVENUE CODE OF 1997, AS AMENDED
E xplanatory Note
Jurisprudence is replete with cases stating that taxes are the lifeblood of the government, 
without whieh, it cannot subsist, and therefore should be collected without unnecessary 
hindrance.
The imposition of surcharge and interest on the failure to file tax returns and pay the 
correet taxes due thereon serves as a deterrent on the taxpayers from becoming negligent in their 
duty and obligations to pay taxes.
Tax laws imposing penalties for delinquencies are clearly intended to hasten tax 
payments or to punish evasion or neglect of duty in respect thereof If delays in tax payments are 
to be condoned for light reasons, the law imposing penalties for delinquencies would be rendered 
nugatory, and the maintenance of the government and its multifarious activities would be as 
precarious as taxpayers are willing or unwilling to pay their obligations to the state on time. 
Imperatives of public welfare will not approve of this result.1
However, the surcharge of 25% or 50%, and interest of 20% per annum may not be 
reasonable in the present situation considering, among others, the effect on the same of the 
inflation rate. These rates may now be considered as confiscatory that may result in the 
deprivation of the taxpayers’ right to property.
The surcharge rates of 25% or 50% are too restrictive, especially to small businessmen, 
entrepreneurs and enterprises that might discourage those operating in the underground eeonomy 
to legitimize their business operations. With our complieated tax laws and regulations, taxpayers 
who cannot afford to seek professional assistance, would find it very difficult to achieve 100% 
compliance with the requirements of the law for the payment of taxes.
The interest rate of 20% is too high considering the prevailing average interest rate of 
only 3%. Even the legal interest rate of 12% for loans and credit agreements was reduced to 6% 
effective July 1, 2013 through BSP Cireular No. 799.
This proposed measure seeks to reduce the surcharge and interest rates to a reasonable 
level of 12% or 25%, and 6%, respectively, to encourage voluntary compliance by the taxpayers 
to pay the correct taxes.
In view of the foregoing, immediate approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
ja o
1 Jamora vs. Meer, 74 Phil. 22
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
!i
a. 
.-T-
x ' . tI-'' 
o I M i f / ' ' ■ t f ' •>■ I
*16 
111 21 P3:45
SENATE 
S. No.
Kl
F> V ;
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto
AN ACT
MANDATING THE ANNUAL PUBLIC DISCLOSURE OF ALL CONTINGENT 
LIABILITIES INCURRED BY ALL NATIONAL GOVERNMENT AGENCIES, LOCAL 
GOVERNMENT 
UNITS, 
GOVERNMENT-OWNED 
OR 
-CONTROLLED 
CORPORATIONS, GOVERNMENT FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS, AND OTHER 
GOVERNMENT INSTRUMENTALITIES
Explanatory Note
The Philippine Government is mandated by no less than the 1987 Constitution to 
recognize the role of the private sector in providing adequate social services, promoting full 
employment, raising the standard of living, and improving the quality of life for all Filipinos.
Encouraging the private sector to participate in the delivery of public services, however, 
is hampered by the country’s market realities marked by stringent regulations, uncertain socio­
economic and political environment, and market distortions caused by price control and 
subsidies.
To tap private sector capital and skills, the government was compelled to make public 
sector investments more profitable by providing ineentives and assuming investment risks. As 
such, the conferment of government guarantees on public sector investment and borrowings 
became one of the prominent features of Republie Act No. 6957 as amended, otherwise known 
as the Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) Law.
The benefits of government guarantees, however, come at a price. Studies conducted by 
tbe University of the Philippines School of Economics' showed that government risk 
management practices severely understate the level of exposure and risk arising from unfettered 
provision of guarantees. The Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS)2 and the 
Development Budget Coordinating Committee (DBCC)3 raised their concerns over the 
unexpected public sector obligations that could be brought about by government guarantees, 
especially on the delivery of public goods and services.
The Senate Economic Planning Office (SEPO)4 underscored the importance of effective 
identification, management, and reporting of contingent liabilities and off-budget risks of 
government-owned and -controlled corporations (GOCCs), since past fiscal crises in the 
Philippines were triggered by extra-budgetary activities. Considering the potential of government
Reside, R. (1999). Estimating the Philippine Government's Exposure to and Risk from Contingent Liabilities and 
Infrastructure Projects. Quezon City: University of the Philippines School of Economics 
Philippine Institute for Development Studies. (2005). Contingent Liabilities: adding up to the fiscal burden. Makati: Republic 
of the Philippines.
Development Budget Coordinating Committee. (2012). 2012 Fiscal RLsks Statement. Quezon City: Republic of the Philippines. 
Senate Economic Planning Office. (2004) Five Pillars of Growth: An Economic and Social Development Framework. Pasay 
City: United Nations Development Programme.
Jv' 
\
¥
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
FIRST REGULAR SESSION 
)
s.B.NrAl99
( g i f i t f .  o f  t l i f , * • c r ' ' 1 ’ ' u
•16 
I'lL 26 A 9 55
\ r
,T'Y:
INTRODUCED BY SENATOR JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO
AN ACT TO EXPAND AND REVITALIZE THE SPECIAL EDUCATION 
PROGRAM FOR GIFTED AND HANDICAPPED CHILDREN AND YOUTH IN
THE PHILIPPINES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
There is a need to enhance access to quality education particularly for children 
and youth with special educational needs such as the gifted, the gifted but physically 
handicapped, the fast learners, the mentally retarded, the visually impaired (blind), 
the hearing-impaired, the orthopedically handicapped, the speech impaired, those 
with behavior problems, those with learning disabilities and those with special health 
problems and others have not received as much attention as it should have. The lack 
of classrooms, physical facilities and special equipment suitable to the needs of the 
disabled, the dearth of specially trained teachers and school administrators for the 
various exceptionalities has remained a perennial problem.
Parent education is an urgent need in the campaign to enhance home school 
relationships and to maximize their sense of competence and involvement in the 
education of their handicapped and as well as the gifted children. Over the years, the 
Bureau of Elementary Education has worked for the improvement of the delivery 
system despite and against any constraints. These efforts can only be sustained if they 
are anchored on a legal mandate that fully supports and ensures the continuity of 
long-term programs to help develop the potential of handicapped and gifted persons.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session
S E N A T E
s.B. 
879
.p i'n tii:
H 
(if 
r I
'16 JIJL26 A 9:07
|{ I ‘
Introduced by Senator Poe
AN ACT
REQUIRING MANDATORY ENVIRONMENT INSURANCE COVERAGE TO 
PROMOTE ECOLOGICAL PROTECTION
Explanatory Note
The primacy of the enviromnent is enshrined Article II, Section 8 of the 1987 
Philippine Constitution, which mandates the state to “...protect and advance the right of the 
people to a balanced and healthful ecology in accord with the rhythm and harmony of 
nature.” In the landmark environmental case of Oposa v.s Factor an (G.R. No. 101083), the 
Supreme Court ruled that “the right to a balanced and healthful ecology carries with it the 
correlative duty to refrain from impairing the environment.”
The “duty to refrain from impairing the environment” is spelled out in several laws 
such as the Revised Forestry Code (P.D. No. 705); the Water Code of the Philippines (P.D. 
No. 1067); the Philippine Mining Act of 1997 (R.A. 8371); the Philippine Fisheries Code of 
1998 (R.A. 8550); the Philippine Clean Air Act of 1999 (R.A. 9749); the Ecological Solid 
Waste Management Act of 2000 9R.A. 9003); and the Wildlife Resources Conservation Act 
(R.A. 9147).
However, there remain lapses in the protection of the right to a healthy and balanced 
ecology. In particular, environmental degradation and man-made disasters which arise from 
economic activities are extremely under-regulated. There have been many instances of man­
made environmental damages like the 1996 Marcopper Mining tragedy in Marinduque which 
led to the biological death of the Boac and Makalupnit rivers, and destroyed hectares of 
farmlands and displaced families. The 2005 and 2007 massive fish kills in Rapu-Rapu, Albay
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
SENATE
24
S. No.
' z °  
J 
iLU 
d a t e : 
co
V 
t im e :,
b y : ------- ^ ------
v BILLS *  INDEX
Introduced by Senator G regorio B. Honasan I I
AN ACT
FORTIFYING THE PEOPLE'S RIGHT OF OWNERSHIP OVER INFORMATION 
HELD BY THE PEOPLE'S GOVERNMENT
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Legislation on Freedom of Information (FOI) has been recognized for nearly 250 years, 
with the first FOI law enacted in Sweden in 1766 under the Freedom of the Press Act. 
This was followed in 1789 by the French Declaration of the Rights of Man, which called 
for the right of citizens to review government expenditures.
On December 14, 1946, the United Nations General Assembly passed the resolution 
stating unequivocally that: Freedom of information is a fundamental human right and is 
the touchstone of all freedoms to which the United Nations is consecrated. The 
significance of this concept was further explained in Article 19 of the UN Declaration of 
Human Rights, which provides that: Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and 
expression; this right includes freedom to hold opinions without interference and to 
seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media, and regardless of 
frontiers.
General principles on freedom of information may have been declared by the United 
Nations and other international treaties, but national laws have to be adopted to ensure 
that citizens are able to exercise this right.
The First Principle in our Constitution states that, "The Philippines is a democratic and 
republican state. Sovereignty resides in the people and all government authority 
emanates from them." (Section I, Article II, Declaration of Principles and State Policies 
of the 1987 Constitution)
As such, our democratic government is a government of the people, by the people, and 
for the people. But the prevailing reality is that most of our less privileged Filipino 
brethren are born, struggle to survive, and die without knowing that they are the 
rightful and constitutional owners of this beautiful country.
It is government's responsibility to centralize information so as to govern effectively. It 
is the keeper of information on its territory, its land and resources, its people, without 
which there would be no government. The three branches of government also 
safeguard information related to the policies and programs needed to carry out the 
functions of governance. The centralization of personal records in government agencies
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
FIRST REGULAR SESSION 
)
SENATE
S.B. No. 147
.fji TIME;
BILLS &
Introduced by Senator Cynthia A. Villar
AN ACT
ADJUSTING THE 
INCOME BRACKETS AND RATES OF TAX IMPOSED ON 
TAXABLE INCOME OF INDIVIDUALS, AMENDING 
FOR THIS PURPOSE 
SECTION 24 OF THE NATIONAL INTERNAL REVENUE CODE OF 1997, AS 
AMENDED, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
“The rule of taxation shall be uniform and equitable. The Congress shall 
evolve a progressive system of taxation”. So says Article VI, Section 28 (1) of the 
1987 Constitution. Despite what the Constitution says, our current tax system has 
often been depicted by our countrymen as one that is inequitable and unreasonable. 
Their impression of Philippine taxation is understandable as it is supported by 
empirical data.
An analysis of tax policies of the countries comprising the Association of 
Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) shows that the Philippines has one of the highest 
average tax rate, following Vietnam and Thailand. 
However, rich and highly 
developed Singapore has the lowest marginal tax rate at both ends of its tax bracket 
spectrum, at 2% for the lowest qualifying income earners and 20% for the 
wealthiest.1 In the Philippines, the tax rate established by law ranges from 5% for the 
lowest income earners to 32% for the wealthy. Yet, those paying within the 32% 
bracket, those earning just a little over P500,000.00 pay income tax at the same rate 
as those earning in the millions.
Our richer neighbors in the ASEAN clearly see that at certain income levels, 
more disposable cash or purchasing power must be left in the hands of taxpayers to 
enable them to have good quality of life and provide for their families. It is indeed 
difficult to comprehend how rich countries require their citizens to pay taxes that are 
lower than ours.
Aside from high taxes, inflation makes it hard for Filipinos to meet the 
demands of daily living. As inflation has led to the rise in commodity prices over the 
years, the purchasing power of our people’s hard-earned money has weakened
l http://www.rappler.com/thought-leaders/65114-filipino-middle-class-over-taxed
US
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of
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
) 
SENATE OF THE PHILIPPINES ) 
First Regular Session 
)
•16 JUL20 P5:11
RFC El VI',!') BY;
SENATE
SB No. 
717
Introduced by SENATOR CYNTHIA A. VILLAR
AN ACT INSTITUTIONALIZING THE PHILIPPINE ABACA INDUSTRY 
DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM, PROVIDING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER
PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This bill seeks to spur the revival of the production, processing, marketing, and 
distribution of abaca in suitable areas of the country in order to provide income to 
people living in rural areas and spur economic growth.
The plant, known worldwide as Manila hemp is extracted from the leaf sheath around 
the trunk of the abaca plant (Musa textilis), a close relative of the banana, native to the 
country and widely distributed in the tropics. The harvesting abaca is labor intensive as 
each stalk must be cut into strips which are scraped to remove the pulp. The fibers are 
then washed and dried. Abaca is has high 15% lignin content and as such it is prized 
for its great mechanical strength, resistance to saltwater damage, and long fiber length 
-  up to 3 m. Abaca farmers can be found in Albuera, Leyte, in Catanduanes, Davao 
Oriental, Northern Samar, Sorsogon, Sulu, Davao del Sur and Surigao del Sur, among 
others.
Environmental benefits
Erosion control and biodiversity rehabilitation can be assisted by intercropping abaca in 
former monoculture plantations and rainforest areas, particularly with coconut palms. 
Planting abaca can also minimize erosion and sedimentation problems in coastal areas 
which are important breeding places for sea fishes. The water holding capacity of the 
soil will be improved and floods and landslides will also be prevented. Abaca waste 
materials are used as organic fertilizer.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
SENATE
S.B. No. 174
dateJUN
BILLS
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT PROFESSIONALIZING THE CONTRACTING AND SUBCONTRACTING 
INDUSTRY, REQUIRING A TRANSITION SUPPORT PROGRAM, AND PROHIBITING 
OPPRESSIVE PRACTICES, AMENDING FOR THIS PURPOSE ARTICLES 106 TO 109 OF 
PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 442, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE LABOR CODE OF THE
PHILIPPINES, AS AMENDED
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Over the past decade, the Philippines has been experiencing GDP gains and 
exponential economic growth. However, the unemployment and underemployment 
rates remain high.
There are almost a million new jobseekers that enter the labor force each 
year and, sadly, employment opportunities are simply not enough to absorb them. 
Worse, with many skilled and experienced employees agreeing to entry-level jobs 
just to have a steady source of income, first-time jobseekers with limited or low-level 
skills are left with no job opportunities.
This is where contractors and subcontractors help job seekers in skills- 
building, particularly in developing occupational skills that match industry demand. 
Contractors and subcontractors also help employees in upgrading existing skills, 
learning new skills and opening up more opportunities for them.
On the other end, contractors and subcontractors also help employers and 
companies expand their businesses with minimal costs and freedom to focus on 
their core business. Consequently, when these businesses expand, more jobs are 
created.
Seeing 
the 
impact 
of 
this 
flexibility, 
the 
government 
and 
contractors/subcontractors must work together to establish a framework, filling the 
gaps in current industry practices and protecting both employers and employees.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
SENATE
s.No. 024
•16 
JUU9 P6'.l7
R K
i \
l ;'
Introduced by Senator Antonio ‘‘Sonny” F. Trillancs IV
AN ACT
AMENDING SECTION 8 OF PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 910 TO ALLOW THE 
FINANCING OF ENERGY-RELATED EXPENSES OF THE ARMED FORCES OF 
THE PHILIPPINES IN THE USE OF THE SPECIAL FUND
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Malampaya Fund was created to provide funds to finance tor energy-related projects and 
for other purposes that may be decided by the President. It consists of royalties collected from 
operations of the Malampaya gas and oil fields in the waters off Palawan province.
However, such huge Presidential latitude purportedly became a blanket approval for the past 
administration to abuse said power. The fund was allegedly drained to accommodate bogus 
projects of the non-govemmental organizations (NGOs) of Mrs. Janet Lim Napoles, in 
collusion with government officials.
The present law, laced with noble intentions but little guidelines, was thereafter partially 
junked by the Supreme Court, as it struck as illegal the discretionary power of the President 
in utilizing said Fund.
One of the basic and most urgent requirements for the peaceful and successful exploration 
and development of energy resource in the country is safety and security in the area. This is 
because energy sources are often found in isolated and sometimes contested areas. Hence, 
security provided by the military is often an indispensible requirement for the successful 
pursuit of any energy related project.
In fact, the Malampaya gas and oil fields themselves, which are near disputed waters off 
Palawan, continue to remain secure because of the efforts of the Armed Forces of the 
Philippines (AFP) particularly, the Philippine Navy, which constantly patrol the area with 
ships coming from Naval Forces West (NavForWest) operating at Oyster Bay, Palawan, the 
country's first line of defense in the disputed waters in West Philippine Sea.
Unfortunately, the existing law is silent with regards the provision of military support for 
energy-related projects to guarantee the security of critical infrastructures in the Malampaya 
gas platform and other energy related projects.
Prior to the High Court's decision to clip the discretionary power of the President to disburse 
the Fund, Former President Benigno Simeon Aquino III was able to prudently approve the 
release of necessary funding to the AFP in order to expand and fortify the defenses for natural
J5 I H .* 11
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S. No. 536
' S l i i f *  o f i t i r
'16 
III! 19 P2 •?9
' V :
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” Trillanes IV
AN ACT
CREATING THE OVERSEAS FILIPINO WORKERS PENSION FUND AND 
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) have been infusing a large amount of contribution into 
our nation's growth and development. Their remittances, to be specific, have significantly 
contributed in keeping the current account deficit manageable and in stabilizing the economy.
OFW remittances, as estimated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), almost tripled to 
$16.4 billion in 2008, from $6.0 billion in 2000, or an annual average growth rate of 13.3%. 
Earlier this year, money sent home by the OFWs rose by 8.4 percent to $1,855 billion in 
January compared to last year's $1.7 billion. In this light, OFWs must be encouraged to remit 
their earnings from overseas and in turn, the State should safeguard and oversee the 
participation of the said workers' remittances and savings in investment and other productive 
undertakings for the benefit of our national economy.
It is an undisputed fact that most of our OFWs are subject to strenuous and risky working 
conditions. Undeniably, they have been the victims of their employer's iniquitous labor 
practices. Bereft of opportunities in their mother country, they manage to endure these dismal 
plights abroad just to support their families left at home.
Therefore, it is essential to devise a system that can afford these modem day heroes and their 
families a guaranteed capital to start off in the event that an unforeseen misfortune afflicts 
them in the course of their work.
This bill essentially seeks the creation of the OFWs Pension Fund. It envisions to provide a 
mechanism for a more efficient and rationalized management of the OFWs pension fund 
through creating a board primarily tasked to administer and promote the OFWs and their 
families' interests. With this bill, a better promotion of the welfare of our OFWs will be put 
forward.
In view of the foregoing, the immediate approval of this bill is fervently sought.
ANT
i
k -
“SONNY” F. TRILLANES IV
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
SENATE 
, 
S.B. No. 
1 7 1
iHE
V tHE
'RECEIVED^,,
jz 0nATpJUN 3 0 2iU6
V -  —  
^> 36 
or./
/
T«WL;
BILLS &/INDEj<
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT
PROMOTING OPEN ACCESS IN DATA TRANSMISSION, PROVIDING ADDITIONAL POWERS 
TO THE NATIONAL TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
We live in the information age where instantaneous access to reliable data can save 
you money, get you your dream concert tickets, save lives in times of calamity, and even 
spark a political revolution witnessed all around the world.
Technology has refashioned our world, empowering us with information at our 
fingertips.
What many of us don't see are the multiple levels and layers that data zips through 
to move from one point to another, from one user to the next.
If this complex data network is not designed and managed properly, it may cost 
users' time and money. And for a nation with a pressing problem with slow and expensive 
Internet services, it is imperative that we explore all avenues to improve data transmission.
This measure sets the regulatory framework to promote effective data transmission, 
taking into account the ever-changing nature of technology.
This bill will bolster the powers of the National Telecommunications Commission to 
create a healthy environment for the development and growth of data networks and their 
associated industries to improve access to information for every Filipino.
In view of the foregoing, the passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES ) 
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
546
S. No.
r f  I h f  
;
■16 
nil 19 
P ?:/l7
'V
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
RECOGNIZING NATIONAL SCENIC BYWAYS IN THE PHILIPPINES THEREBY 
CREATING A NATIONAL SCENIC BYWAYS PROGRAM, AND FOR OTHER 
PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This bill aims to recognize, protect and promote the Philippines' most outstanding roads 
having one of six core intrinsic qualities - scenic, historic, cultural, natural, recreational, and 
archaeological qualities - features which contribute to the character of the roadway and its 
communities. The National Scenic Byways designation aims to award routes that show the 
regional characteristics of the nation’s culture, history and landscape.
National Scenic Byways represent the best of all scenic byways and provide visitors with a 
unique travel experience since they are considered tourist attractions in their own right. Under 
this measure, if a route is designated as such, it does not only gain an expected boost in 
tourism, but also becomes eligible for appropriations for improvements such as interpretive 
centers, overlooks, and rest areas. Moreover, local residents will be encouraged to work 
closely with the Government and civic organizations to preserve and promote the unique 
local beauty and distinctive character of their own community.
Recognition of scenic byways focuses not only on the promotion of roads, but also helps 
balance economic development and resource conservation in the localities. In the United 
States of America, strong scenic byways program demonstrated strong community support 
and even encouraged the citizens to develop a corridor management plan that describes in 
detail the preservation, marketing, and improvement strategies for the byway.
This program seeks to preserve the beauty of the designated scenic corridors, which reaps 
rewards by protecting community character while providing economic opportunities in 
tourism and recreation.
Approval of this bill is earnestly urged.
F. TRILLANES I
a n to i^^cN s o n n y ”
IV
Senator
,^eiiatr
(fffirt «f H|e>mrtsru
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE 
S. No. 
5 6 6
‘16 i t  19 P4 50
RECEJVF4> BY;
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillaiies IV
AN ACT
PROVIDING A MAGNA CARTA FOR PROBATION AND PAROLE WORKERS, 
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Parole and Probation Administration plays a very important role in our society as it is the 
agency mandated and given the responsibility in assisting probationers, parolees, pardonees, 
first-time minor drug offenders and juvenile in conflict with the law placed on probation, to 
adjust their lives in a free community. The agency tries to prevent these ex-law offenders 
from committing future criminal acts as well as lend a hand in ensuring that, once freed, they 
will lead more productive and useful lives.
Moreover, because of their work as investigators, supervisors and officers of the court, 
agency employees and officials are expoWd to a lot of danger as they may have to deal with 
law offenders. They also may be assigned to areas which may expose them to a lot of risks 
and various forms of hazards.
This bill seeks to improve and promote the social and economic status of our Probation and 
Parole Workers, as well as their living and working conditions, terms of employment, 
professional growth and provide for their career advancement.
Further, the proposed measure seeks to provide Probation and Parole Workers additional 
compensation and incentives such as hazard pay, housing and living quarters allowance, 
longevity pay and compensation for injuries.
In the view of the foregoing, immediate approval of this measure is earnestly sought.
a n t o ] ^ \ ; o n \ jy” f I t r il l a n e s
/  
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session
SENATE 
!?.No. 
6 6
BILLS & /INDEX
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto
AN ACT
AUTHORIZING PUBLIC-PRIVATE 
PARTNERSHIPS 
(PPP), 
APPROPRIATING 
FUNDS THEREFOR, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
Explanatory Note
The Philippines is envisioned as a country that has high sustainable growth, generates 
mass employment and reduces poverty. Towards this end, encouraging public-private 
partnerships (PPPs) should be a means to develop the country's infrastructure in all sectors and 
secure our economic global ranking.
With very little fiscal space in the national budget to even make a dent in the country’s 
infrastructure backlog, strengthening laws that provide incentives to PPPs should be a priority 
legislative policy of this administration.
It is therefore of utmost importance to revisit Republie Act No. 6957, as amended by 
Republic Act No. 7718, Entitled “An Act Authorizing the Finaneing, Construction, Operation 
and Maintenance of Infrastructure Projects by the Private Sector, and for Other Purposes” or 
what is otherwise called the “Build-Operate-Transfer” (BOT) law.
This bill is aimed at further improving the “Build-Operate-Transfer” (BOT) law by 
expanding its coverage and providing more incentives to the private sector who become partners 
of the government in infrastructure projects.
This bill limits the projects to be implemented as PPP projects to hard infrastructure 
charging user fee or tariff and excludes social infrastructure projects such as prisons, education 
and health facilities, and other infrastrueture projects like government buildings, tourism 
projects, power projects, climate change mitigation and adaptation measures.
One salient feature of this bill is the automatic approval by the Regional Development 
Couneil of PPP projects which have satisfactorily complied with the requirements to avoid 
arbitrary and unreasonable withholding of endorsement of projects.
Another salient feature of this bill is the classification of infrastructure projects with a 
direct economic impact which should not be less than the threshold set by the Investment 
Coordination Committee (ICC); with a direct positive impact on at least two cities or 
munieipalities; and can create new jobs as “Projects of National Significance”. When classified 
as such, these projects will be exempted from real property tax.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session
dateJUL
$
BILLS
S.B. No
SENATE
315
Introduced by Senator SONNY ANGARA
AN ACT
IMPLEMENTING THE PEOPLE’S RIGHT TO INFORMATION AND THE 
CONSTITUTIONAL POLICIES OF FULL PUBLIC DISCLOSURE AND HONESTY IN 
THE PUBLIC SERVICE AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
A citizen's right to official information is essential for a democracy to work. Individuals 
with ready access to public documents are able to discern better, and therefore exercise their 
sovereignty over the government they elected. No less than the 1987 Philippine Constitution 
affirms this, as embodied in Article II, Sec. 28 which provides, “The right of the people to 
information on matters of public concern shall be recognized. Access to official records, and to 
documents, and papers pertaining to official acts, transactions, or decisions, as well as 
government research data used as basis for policy development, shall be afforded the citizen, 
subject to such limitations as may be provided by law.”
The Constitution also underscores that government must operate with utmost 
transparency and accountability as Article III, Sec. 7 of the 1987 Constitution declares, "Subject 
to reasonable conditions prescribed by the law, the State adopts and implements a policy of full 
public disclosure of all its transactions involving public interest."
The foregoing measure confirms these constitutional imperatives by establishing the 
broad guidelines and procedures that operationalize them. Left without an operational 
framework for public documents, the rights and obligations enshrined under the Constitution 
would be rendered meaningless, allowing government to operate under a shroud of secrecy and 
away from public scrutiny.
Hence, this bill intends to narrow the opportunity for abuse and help restore trust and 
confidence in government. Anti-corruption statutes cannot be fully enforced if there are no 
disclosure and information statutes. This would significantly help our government better serve 
the needs of the people. The passage of the FOI bill will signal the beginning of the realization
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
SENATE
S.B. No.
173
dateJUN
§
BILLS
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT INSTITUTIONALIZING A FULL SUBSIDY PROGRAM IN STATE UNIVERSITIES 
FOR CHILDREN OF PUBLIC SCHOOL TEACHERS, PROVIDING FUNDS THEREOF, AND
FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Who would appreciate the great value of education more than the very 
people who have dedicated their lives to teaching in our public schools?
Many of our public school teachers sacrifice higher paying jobs and more 
comfortable working environments to answer their calling of educating those from 
less fortunate families. Their act of public service is invaluable to the lives of their 
students and molding the future of our country.
But as they fulfill their vocation in the field of education, they too struggle to 
afford the tuition fees to send their own children to school. With the meager salaries 
of public school teachers, paying for a college education comes as a heavy burden.
To unburden our modern-day heroes and to promote the value of education 
and becoming an educator, this bill endeavors to provide full tuition subsidies 
available in all State Universities and Colleges in the Philippines for the children of 
public school teachers.
This measure is in line with our efforts to improve access to quality education 
for every young Filipino and sends the message that becoming an educator within 
our public school system is a dignified vocation worthy of special benefits from the 
State.
Let's continue to support and reward citizens who take part in nation­
building and creating a brighter future for the next generation of young Filipinos.
In view of the foregoing, the approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
Senator Paolo Benigno "™m " A. Aquino IV
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E
S. B. No.
767
•16 
.JUL21 
A i m 4
Ri ' r i .r  '
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT
AUTHORIZING THE SOCIAL SECURITY COMMISSION TO CONDONE 
PENALTIES ON DELINQUENT CONTRIBUTIONS AND TO DETERMINE THE 
MONTHLY SALARY CREDITS, THE SCHEDULE AND RATE OF
CONTRIBUTIONS AND THE RATE OF PENALTY ON DELINQUENT 
CONTRIBUTIONS AND UNPAID LOAN AMORTIZATIONS, AMENDING FOR 
THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 1161, AS AMENDED, OTHERWISE KNOWN
AS THE SOCIAL SECURITY LAW
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This bill seeks to provide the Social Security Commission (Commission) the 
authority to condone penalties on delinquent contributions, to determine the monthly 
salary credits, the schedule and rate 'of contributions, benefit increases and the rate of 
penalty on delinquent contributions and unpaid loan amortizations, thereby further 
amending Republic Act No. 1161, as amended, otherwise known as the Social Security 
Law.
The Commission, guided by its fiduciary duty to protect the welfare of SSS 
members and the fortitude to exercise extraordinary diligence in the care of the SS 
Fund, is a collegial body where the government, the employers, the workers and the 
general public are well represented. All the nine (9) members of the Commission are 
appointed by the President of the Philippines for a term of one year and their 
performance are appraised and evaluated by the Office of the President through the 
Governance Commission on GOCCs every year.
The Commission believes that a strong and vibrant social protection system 
fulfils an emerging country. This proposed measure will enable the Commission and 
the SSS to realize its mandate and reinforce their commitment for a better SSS in the 
years to come.
Penalty condonation on delinquent contributions
Under Section 22 (a) of the SS Law, a penalty of three percent (3%) a month is assessed 
on unremitted contributions. This penalty is burdensome as it continues to accrue from the date 
the contribution falls due until paid. As a result, the delinquency, if not quickly addressed, can 
really pile up. For troubled companies that, by and large, do not want to be delinquent in the first 
place but failed to remit what is due as their employees' contributions to SSS could easily find 
themselves in arrears.
It is reported that for a big number of billing or demand letters issued against employers- 
members of the SSS, the amount of contribution-delinquency is computed based on presumptive