bettergovph/raw-philippine-data huggingface dataset:
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SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PUILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
91:) 
s. No. 
,} 
"13 JUl18 Pl:48 
Introduced by Sen. Antonio "Sonny" F. Trillanes IV 
---'~----
Explanatory Note 
District Engineering Offices or DEOs of the Department of Public Works and Highways 
(DPWH) are tasked to develop our country's infrastructure nationwide. They are the forefronts in 
executing infrastructure improvements as they are located in every legislative district throughout 
the country. 
This kind of set-up aims to provide faster delivery of services to fulfill their mandate of 
implementing and initiating infrastructure projects such as the construction of new roads and 
bridges as well as the maintenance of already existing inIrastructure projects. 
There is however a need to streamline and re-number these DEOs to be consistent with the 
numbering of the legislative districts to ensure better delivery of services. This bill seeks to 
renumber all district engineering offices to correspond with the numbering of the legislative 
districts to guarantee a more effective and accurate delivery of infrastructure projects to our 
countrymen. 
In view orthe foregoing, immediate passage ofthis bill is earnest 
sought. 
ANT NIO' ONNY" '. TRILLANES IV 
Senator 
1 


SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S.No. 913 
,Sclmtl' 
1ii){\J;r Id til" ~Hfi'br~ 
''13 
JlJL 18 P 1 :48 
Introduced by Sen. Antonio "Sonny" F. Tl"ilI,.::a=nc::.es=-:cIV~~~~~~~_ 
AN ACT 
RENUMBERING ALL EXISTING DISTRICT ENGINEERING OFFICES OF THE 
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS AND HIGHWAYS TO CONFORM AND 
CORRESPOND WITH THE NUMBERINGS OF THE LEGISLATIVE DISTRICTS 
THROUGHOUT THE COUNTRY 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
1 
SECTION 1. This Act shall be known as the "District Engineering Offices Rationalization Act". 
2 
3 
SEC. 2. All district engineering offices (DEOs) of the Department of Public Works and 
4 
Highways throughout the country shall be renumbered accordingly to conform and correspond 
5 
with the numberings of the legislative districts where they are respectively located. 
6 
7 
SEC. 3. The Secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways shall issue the 
8 
necessary rules and regulations to carry ont the purpose ofthis Act. 
9 
10 
SEC. 4. Separability Clause. - Any other laws which are not affected thereby shall 
11 
continue to be in full force and effect. 
12 
13 
SEC. 5. Repealing Clause. - All acts, laws, decrees, executive orders, rules and 
14 
regulations or parts thereof which are contrary to or inconsistent with this Act are hereby 
15 
repealed, amended or modified accordingly. 
16 
17 
SEC. 6. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its 
18 
publication in a newspaper of general circulation. 
Approved, 
1
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S.No. 122 
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G, ESCUDERO 
, 
.<" 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
'13 Jill -1 
P 1 :40 
The concept of the Barangay as the basic unit of Government, isa unique 
feature of the Philippine democratic system of governance. The Punong 
Barangay, as head of this unit of government, is therefore also in a unique 
position in providing government services to their constituencies. Empowering 
the Punong Barangay to administer oaths -- including the oath of office of the 
President of the Republic, the highest office in the land, is more than symbolic. 
This is a confirmation of the important part that the Barangay and its officials, 
play in the everyday life of the Filipino People. 
Hence, the approval of this bill is earnestly sought. 
FRANCIS G, ESCUDERO 


• ,-. -
..... r 
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S.No. _122 
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 
Sennt!' 
(~lf.;r 01 tlj. Ji>m,t"'~ 
'13 
JUl -1 Pl:40 
AN ACT AUTHORIZING THE PUNONG BARANGAY TO ADMINISTER 
THE OATH OF OFFICE OF ANY GOVERNMENT OFFICIAL, INCLUDING 
THE PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES,. AMENDING 
FOR THE PURPOSE SECTION 41 OF EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 292 
OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE ADMINISTRATIVE CODE OF 1987 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
1 
SECTION 1. Section 41 of Executive Order No. 292 otherwise known as the 
2 
Administrative Code of 1987 is hereby amended to read as follows: 
3 
4 
5 
6 
7 
8 
9 
10 
11 
12 
13 
14 
15 
16 
17 
"SECTION 41. Officers Authorized to Administer Oaths. - (1) 
The following officers have general authority to administer oath: Notaries 
ppblic, members of the judiciary, clerks of courts, the Secretary of either 
House of the Congress of the Philippines, of departments, bureau 
directors, register of deeds, provincial governors and lieutenant-governors, 
city mayors, municipal mayors, PUNONG BARANGAYS and any other 
officer in the service of the goverument of the Philippines whose 
appointment is vested in the President. 
(2) Oaths may be administered by any officer whose duties, as 
defined by law or regulation, require presentation to him of any statement 
under oath." 
18 
SEC. 2. All laws, executive orders, presidential decrees, rules and regulations, 
19 
which are inconsistent with this Act are hereby amended, repealed or modified 
20 
accordingly. 
21 
22 
SEC. 3. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in at least 
23 
. two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
24 
25 
26 
Approved. 
1
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
'13 
JUL -1 
P 1 :55 
SENATE 
., ') ,-
Senate Bill No. 
.J. (\ " I 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Domestic Adoption Act which was Signed into law as Republic Act No. 8552 
in 1998 provides for a three-year amnesty from pecuniary and penal sanctions 
for those who have falsified the birth certificate of children in their custody 
through the registration of simulated birth certificates. 
However, during the period provided under the said law, only 364 applicants 
have availed of the amnesty, which is just a small percentage of the reported 
number of simulated births. 
This low turn-out may be attributed to the 
psychological, emotional and social considerations for both the parents and the 
children. In addition to this, some opined that there was alack of information 
drive regarding the said amnesty and there were reports that applicants found 
the process rather tedious. 
This bill proposes to extend the amnesty period to twenty (20) years from the 
~ff!,)9tivity Qf R,A, §gg2, Qf Ynti! the YeS'lr ~Q1 §, Giv!;ln th!') fS'l9t thS'lt th~ prQ~!?!? 
requires ample time, effort and money, the proposed extension will give 
opportunity for parents who have not yet rectified the simulated birth not only to 
cprrect the recprds but mpre importantly, tp allow the children to fully enjoy the 
rights, benefits, and privileges of legally adopted children. 
, 
The immediate passage of this bill is earnestly sought. 
GOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
Senator 


SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
'13 
JUL -1 
P 1 :55 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 
130 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
EXTENDING THE PRESCRIPTIVE PERIOD FOR RECTIFICATION OF 
SIMULATED BIRTHS, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT 
NUMBER 8552, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE DOMESTIC ADOPTION ACT 
OF 19981 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines 
in Congress assembled: 
1 
SECTION 1. S.ection 22 of the RepU.blic Act No. 8552 is hereby amended to 
2 
read as follows: 
3 
4 
"Section 22. Rectification of Simulated Births. ,." A person who has 
5 
[, prior to the effectivity of this Act,] simulated the birth of a child 
6 
shall not be punished for such act; Provided, That the simulation 
7 
was made for the best interest of the child and that he/she is 
8 
consistently considered and treated by that person as his/her own 
9 
son/daughter; Provided further, That the application for the 
10 
correction of the birth registration and petition for adoption shall be 
11 
filed within [five (5)] TWENTY (20) years from the effectivity of this 
12 
Act and completed thereafter; Provided finally, That such person 
13 
complies witli the procedures as specified in 'Article IV of this Act 
14 
and other requirements as determined by the Department." 
15 
16 
17 
SEC. 2. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days following 
18 
its publication in any two (2) newspapers of general circulation or in the Official 
19 
Gazette. 
20 
21 
22 
23 
24 
25 
Approved, 
1
S[XTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S. B. No. A-3,( 
'13 
JIJL -4 118:14 
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The State needs to significantly improve and develop tourism and economic 
I activities in the country. 
Consequently, the government should focus on the improvement and 
appropriate maintenance of roads leading to major tourist and economic destinations. 
This is to facilitate access and thus promote such activities for tourism and economic 
development. 
In view of the foregoing, passage of this bill with dispatch is sought. 
-
FRANCIS G, ESCUDERO 


,SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S. B. NoAa '7 
'13 
JUL-4 f\8:\4 
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCVDERO 
'<x' 
AN ACT 
CONVERTING ALL ROADS LEADING TO TOURIST DESTINATIONS AND 
PORTS AS NATIONAL ROADS 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Republic of the 
Philippines in Congress assembled: 
1 
SECTION 1. All roads leading to tourist destinations and ports are hereby 
2 
converted and declared as national roads. 
3 
4 
For this purpose, tourist destinations shall refer to an area where there exists an 
5 
establishment or group of establishments that has been created with the purpose of 
6 
attracting tourists duly accredited by the Department of Tourism (DOT) pursuant to 
7 
Republic Act No. 9593 or the Tourism Act of 2009. 
8 
9 
On the other hand, ports shall refer to all existing and future ports, private or 
10 
public, under the administration, regulation, management and operation of the 
II 
Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) pursuant to Presidential Decree No. 505 dated 11 July 
12 
1974, as amended. 
13 
14 
SEC. 2. 
The Secretaries of the Department of Public Works and Highways 
15 
(DPWH) and the DOT shall issue the necessary rules, orders and circulars for the 
16 
effective implementation of this Act. 
17 
18 
SEC. 3. 
All laws, presidential decrees, executive orders, proclamations, 
19 
ordinances and administrative regulations which are inconsistent with the provisions of 
20 
this Act are hereby amended, modified, superseded or repealed accordingly. 
21 
22 
SEC. 4. 
This Act shall take effect upon complete publication in the Official 
23 
Gazette or in at least two (2) newspaper of general circulation. 
24 
25 
Approved, 
1
i 
Republic of the Philippine 
SENATE OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Pasay City 
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS 
First Regular Session 
S. B. No. 2 ~( 8 
'13 
,JUL -L I, S :12 
INTRODUCED BY SENATOR JUAN EDGARDO "SO my" M. ANGARA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The 1987 Constitution mandates the State to "astablish, maintain, and 
support a complete, adequate, and integrated system of dducation relevant to the 
people and society." (Sec. 2 [I], Art XIV). 
Whereas, in this era of advanced science, more ar :I more countries rely on 
the usefulness of computer technology in their respectiv! developmental pursuits. 
Computer knowledge has now evolved from a fad to an Ibsolute necessity in the 
real world. 
In every profession or business center, demand 
for computer-proficient 
personnel have been increasing in tremendous propor ons. Considering these 
changing times towards the advancement of science ani technology, there is an 
imperative need for us to meet and adapt to these demand '. 
' 
Now, more than ever, is the time to train our childrel towards the demands of 
the future. We must prepare them for the vicious battlE for survival in the next 
decades to come by providing them a legacy of a stable e lucational foundation lest 
we deem to be oblivious and unconcerned on the future a our children, the leaders 
of tomorrow. The mandatory instruction of computer is 
1e first step toward this 
direction. 
Considering the foregoing reasons, the passage of thE) bill is earnestly 
requested. 
. .•....... ~ 
. L,." .. 
JUAN EDGA~bO;SONNY" M. ANGARA 
L" 


; 
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
Introduced by SENATOR JUAN EDGARDO "SONNY" M. ANGARA 
AN ACT 
TO INCLUDE THE TEACHING OF COMPUTER SUBJECT AS PART OF THE ELEMENTARY 
AND HIGH SCHOOL CURRICULA BOTH IN PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SCHOOLS 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. The teaching of computer subject is hereby mandatorily included as an additional 
subject for all students in elementary and high school both in public and private sChools. 
SECTION 2. The Department of Education shall promulgate the necessary rules and 
regulations to implement this Act. 
SECTION 3. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days following its complete publication in the 
Official Gazette or in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved, 
1
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. '9 84 
) 
) 
) 
"\3 
JUL 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Republic Act No, 6657, also known as the Comprehensive Agrarian 
Reform Law, Section 3 (c) defines agricultural land as "land devoted to 
agricultural activity and not classified as mineral, forest, residential, commercial 
or industrial land", 
The comprehensive agrarian reform program is easily circumvented due 
to the very narrow definition of agricultural land which specifies that the land must 
be "devoted to agricultural activity", Also, lands already covered by the program 
are easily reclassified and converted into non-agricultural uses by simply allowing 
agricultural land to stay idle and non-productive even if irrigated or potentially 
irrigable, 
This bill broadens the definition of agricultural land by including those 
lands which were previously devoted to agricultural activities but which were left 
idle by their owners and lands which are irrigated and potentially irrigable as 
defined by Administrative Order No, 20 of the President, Series of 1992, 
In view of the foregoing, the early passage of this bill is earnestly 
requested, 
Senator 


SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No, 9 8, 4 
) 
) 
) 
~",!j,., 1 ,) 
~-:;r'I, & 
.~, 
x 
itiHIH f ,ll lip; 
:' d_'tr~ 
'13 
,11IL ?c'':'.' :?8 
HI>. ,,' 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
AMENDING 
REPUBLIC 
ACT 
NO. 
6657, 
ALSO 
KNOWN 
AS 
THE 
COMPREHENSIVE AGRARIAN REFORM LAW, SECTION 3 (C) 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines 
in Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1, Section 3 (c) of Republic Act No. 6657 is hereby amended to 
read as follows: 
"Section 3. Definitions. - For the purpose of this Act, unless the 
context indicates otherwise: 
"XXX 
"(c) Agricultural Land refers to land devoted to agricultural activity 
as defined in this Act and not classified as mineral, forest, 
residential, commercial or industrial land, AND ALL THOSE 
PREVIOUSLY USED FOR AGRICULTURAL ACTIVITIES WHICH 
HAVE 
NOT BEEN 
RECLASSIFIED 
INTO OTHER 
USES, 
PROVIDED, 
THEY 
ARE 
IRRIGATED 
OR 
POTENTIALLY 
IRRIGABLE LANDS WITH FIRM FUNDING COMMITMENTS FOR 
REHABILITATION." 
SEC. 2. Separability Clause. - If any provision or part hereof is held 
invalid or unconstitutional, the remainder or the law of the provision not otherwise 
affected shall remain valid and subsisting. 
SEC. 3. Repealing Clause. - Any law, presidential decree or issuance, 
executive order, letter of instruction, administrative order, rule or regulation 
contrary to, or inconsistent with, the provisions of this Act is hereby repealed, 
modified, or amended accordingly. 
SEC. 4. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days 
after its publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
Sixteenth Congress ofthe Republic 
of the Philippines 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S.B. No. 948 
--- -------- --------------
'13 
JUL 18 
115 :'14 
rU-J,: \ 
Introduced by Senator Ramon Bong Revilla, Jr. 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
This bill seeks to amend Section 236 of the Local Government Code of 1991 by 
increasing the ceiling tax on additional Ad Valorem Tax on Idle Lands from five percent (5%) to 
ten percent (10%). 
The primary concern of this bill is the fact that there is a continuing non-cultivation and 
non-utilization of our lands especially our agricultural lands due to the relatively minimal tax 
burdens on idle lands in the country. 
The Philippines has a total land area of 30 million hectares generally classified into forest 
lands and alienable and disposable lands. Forest lands cover a total of 15.8 million hectares while 
14.2 million hectares are alienable and disposable lands. Of the 14.2 million hectares alienable 
and disposable lands, 93% or 13 million hectares are classified as agricultural lands. Should 
these large agricultural lands be efficiently utilized, there will be higher agricultural productivity 
therefore greatly addressing problems in food security. 
Further, our idle land tax remains largely unutilized by our local government units as a 
revenue source. Increasing the rate shall provide them more flexibility in its imposition and shall 
serve as a better source of revenue. 
It is with this view that immediate approval of this bill is earnestly sought. 


~CI1Z!tl? 
Fifteenth Congress of the Republic 
of the Philippines 
) 
) 
) 
ollHt;r vf HII' i~i'n ftnr~ 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
S.B. No.948 
Introduced by Senator Ramon Bong Revilla, Jr. 
'13 
JUL 18 PS :')4 
AN ACT INCREASING THE TAX ON IDLE lANDS, AMENDING FOR THE 
PURPOSE, SECTION 236 OF R. A. 7160, 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 236 of the Republic Act No. 7160 is hereby amended as follows: 
"SEC. 236. Additional Ad Valorem Tax on Idle Lands. A province 
or city, of a municipality within the Metropolitan Manila, may levy 
an annual tax on idle lands at the rate not exceeding [five] TEN 
percent [(5%)] (10%) of the assessed value of the property which 
shaH be in addition to the basic real property tax." 
SECTION 2. All other acts, decrees, executive orders, rules and regulations, or part or 
parts thereof, inconsistent with this Act are hereby repealed or modified accordingly. 
SECTION 3. This act shall take effect upon its publication in two (2) newspapers of 
general circulation. 
Approved,
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 8 ? 11 
) 
) 
) 
;~~ qrlLl '-~, 
dl)!fq~"!lfliil. 
l~L:lI~. 
'13 n n ;'3 :;7 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The primary election law of the land, most commonly known as the 
Omnibus Election Code of the Philippines, does not provide for a clear and 
distinct provision regarding the filing of petition to annul or suspend proclamation 
of winning candidates. 
In this regard, this representation intends to incorporate in a specific 
provision which would provide the grounds for the filing of said petition, so as to 
finally address legal queries regarding this aspect of the electoral process. 
Thus,· urgent passage of this proposed legislation is hereby sought. 
Senator 


= 
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 8 7 4 
) 
) 
) 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
"13 
JUL 17 P 3 :17 
TO AMEND BATAS PAMBANSA BLG. 881, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE 
OMNIBUS ELECTION CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES, AS AMENDED, AND 
FOR OTHER PURPOSES 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Section 248 of Batas Pambansa Big. 881, otherwise known 
as the Omnibus Election Code of he Philippines is hereby amended top read as 
follows: 
"Sec. 248. Petition to Annul Proclamation; Effect. A 
PETITION 
TO 
ANNUL 
THE 
PROCLAMATION 
OF 
ANY 
CANDIDATE MAY BE FILED WITH THE COMMISSION WITHIN 
FIVE (5) DAYS FROM PROCLAMATION. THE FILING [with the 
Commission] of [a] SUCH petition [to annular to suspend the 
proclamation of any candidate] shall suspend the running of the 
period within which to file an election protest or quo warranto 
proceedings." 
SEC. 2. 
Article XX of Batas Pambansa Big. 881 is also amended to 
include the following new provisions: 
"Sec. 248-A. Grounds for Petition to Annul Proclamation. A 
PETITION TO ANNUL PROCLATION MAY BE FILED ON ANY OF 
THE FOLLOWING GROUNDS: 
(1) THE 
CANVASSED 
ELECTION 
RETURNS 
OR 
CERTIFICATES OF CANVASS ARE INCOMPLETE, 
CONTAIN MATERIAL DEFECTS, APPEAR TO BE 
TAMPERED WITH OR FALSIFIES, OR CONTAIN 
DISCREAPANSIES IN THE SAME RETURNS OR IN 
OTHER AUTHENTIC COPIES THEREOF; 
(2) THE ELECTION RETURNS OR CERTIFICATE OR 
CANVASS WERE 
PREPARED 
UNDER 
DURESS, 
THREATS, COERCION ORINTIMIDATION, OR ARE 
NOT AUTHENTIC; AND 


(3) WHEN SUBSTITUTE OR FRAUDULENT RETURNS 0 
CERTIFICATES IN CONTESTED PRECINTS WERE 
CONVASSED, 
THE 
RESULTS 
OF 
WHICH 
MATERIALLY AFECTED THE STANDING OF THE 
AGGRIEVED CANDIDATE OR CANDIDATES." 
SEC. 3. Repealing Clause. All laws, presidential decrees, issuances, 
orders, rules and regulations or any part thereof inconsistent herewith are hereby 
amended, repealed or modified accordingly. 
SEC. 4. Effectivity Clause. This Act shall take effect after fifteen (15) 
days following the completion of its publication in the Official Gazette or in at 
least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S. B. No. -.4..2 7 
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
'13 
JUL -4 
1\ S :04 
Alternative dispute resolution or ADR has become an effective legal mechanism in 
settling controversies or disputes in court. 
As a way of encouraging ADR and promoting its use, this bill seeks to provide the 
benefit, favorable t9 the accused, of lowering the penalty in case of conviction in criminal cases 
where the civil aspect of which is settled with finality through or by ADR. 
It is submitted that with this proposal, criminal cases will be resolved with dispatch 
especially in determining and satisfying civil liability at the least which is impliedly instituted in 
the filing of such cases in court. 
An immediate deliberation of this bill is thus requested. 
~ 
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 


2 
3 
4 
5 
6 
7 
8 
9 
10 
11 
12 
13 
14 
IS 
16 
17 
18 
19 
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S.B.No,42'i 
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 
AN ACT 
"13 
JUL -4 1\8 :04 
MANDATING THE IMPOSITION OF PENALTY LOWER THAN THAT PRESCRIBED 
BY LAW IN CRIMINAL CASES THE CIVIL CASE OF WHICH IS SETTLED 
THROUGH OR BY ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLU'l'ION AMENDING FOR 
THAT PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9285 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. A new section is hereby added under Chapter 8 of Republic Act No. 9285 
to be numbered and read as follows: 
"SEC. 54. 
EFFECTS OF ADR ON CRIMINAL CASES. - IN 
CRIMINAL CASES WHERE THE CIVIL ASPECT OF WHICH IS 
SETTLED WITH FINALITY BY ADR THE PENALTY TO BE IMPOSED 
SHALL BE AT LEAST TWO (2) DEGREES LOWER THAN THAT 
PRESCRIBED BY LAW. IF THE SUBJECT OFFENSE CANNOT BE 
LOWERED BY TWO (2) DEGREES PURSUANT TO ARTICLE 61 OF 
THE REVISED PENAL CODE (RPC) THEN THE PENALTY TO BE 
IMPOSED SHALL BE FROM THE MINIMUM TO THE NEXT LOWER 
PENALTY PRESCRIBED BY LAW." 
SEO 2. 
The sections subsequent to the provisions in Section 1 hereof are hereby 
renumbered\as SECTIONS 55 to 57 accordingly. 
SEC. 3. 
All laws, decrees, executive orders and rules and regulations inconsistent 
with the provisions of this Act are hereby repealed and modified accordingly. 
20 
SEC. 4. 
This Act shall take effect 15 days following its complete publication in at 
21 
least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
22 
23 
Approved, 
1
,lhmtb 
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
{~ff';r, .f I~. ~m't"'~ 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
'13 JUl -8 All :55 
SENAB71 
S. No. _-==--=-~ 
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Family Code, Art. 111, provides that "a spouse of age" has the right to dispose 
exclusive properties without the consent of the other spouse. This provision is superfluous. Art. 
234, as amended by Republic Act No. 6908, lowered the age of majority to eighteen (18) years, 
which is the age of emancipation and the age when a person may legally enter into a contract of 
marriage. 
The Family Code, Art. 236 provides that "emancipation shall terminate parental authority 
over the person and property of the child who shall then be qualified and responsible for all acts 
of civil life, save the exceptions established by existing laws in special cases." 
This bill replaces the term "spouse of age" with the more accurate term "either spouse," 
since a person must necessarily be of age to contract marriage.! 
~'-- 4.k"''''"" ,O.,:ttU 
. MIRIAM DEFWSOR siNTI~O 
otI 
1 This bill was originally filed during the Thirteenth Congress, First Regular Session. 
1 


W~"" 
-itl1ntl' 
T 
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
(eff.;. of I~.j. ..... t.~~ 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
'13 
JUL -8 All :55 
SENATE 
S.No. 
577 
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago 
1 
AN ACT 
2 
AMENDING EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 209, ALSO KNOWN AS THE FAMILY CODE, 
3 
ARTICLE 111, TO ALLOW EITHER SPOUSE TO MORTGAGE, ENCUMBER, ALIENATE, 
4 
OR OTHERWISE DISPOSE OF HIS OR HER EXCLUSIVE PROPERTY 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
assembled: 
5 
SECTION 1. The Family Code, Article 111 is hereby amended to read as follows: 
6 
Art. 111. [A spouse of age J EITHER SPOUSE may mortgage, encumber, 
7 
alienate, or otherwise dispose of his or her exclusive property, without the consent 
8 
ofthe other spouse, and appear alone in court to litigate with regard to the same. 
9 
SECTION 2. Repealing Clause. - Any law, presidential decree or issuance, executive 
10 
order, letter of instruction, administrative order, rule or regulation or part thereof, contrary to, or 
11 
inconsistent with, the provision of this Act is hereby repealed, modified, or amended 
12 
accordingly. 
13 
SECTION 3. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect fifteen days (15) days after its 
14 
publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved, 
1
., , 
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S, B. No, _---'6"-'9=-6"-) 
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
£;cntlh.' 
{~Ht;t t11 tlj£ _~~(Ut.'tl'V 
'13 JUl10 1\9 :12 
This bill originates from House Bill No, 4095, which was approved on Third 
Reading in the Fifteenth Congress. 
Essentially, the proposal at hand is in accord with every citizen's constitutional 
right of free speech and expression by declaring as a policy of the State the observance 
of press freedom day in all educational institutions. 
Consequently, this bill is submitted for its consideration and approval. 
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 


, • 
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
SENATE 
696 
s. B. No. ____ _ 
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 
, 
AN ACT 
Srmltf' 
(~fflrr -or t41r' __ ~l'ITf'br~ 
'13 
JUL lOA 9 :12 
DECLARING JULY 25 OF EVERY YEAR AS THE NATIONAL CAMPUS PRESS 
FREEDOM DAY 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
assembled: 
. 
\ 
1 
Section 1. This Act shall be known as the National Campus Press Freedom Day 
2 
Act. 
:3 
4 
Sec. 2. It is hereby declared as a policy of the State to promote, protect and 
5 
safeguard the freedom of 'Speech, expression or of the press as a constitutionally 
6 
guaranteed right under the Constitution.In view thereof, it behooves the State to declare 
7 
as a matter of policy, the observance of such fundamental right, especially in all 
8 
educational institutions, both public and private, within its jurisdiction. 
9 
10 
Sec. 3; The 25th of July of every year is hereby declared as National Campus Press 
11 
Freedom Day. 
12 
13 
Sec. 4. All educational institutions are hereby mandated to provide their full 
14 
support and assistance to events and activities to be conducted by students in 
15 
recognition of the National Campus Press Freedom Day. 
16 
17 
Sec. 5. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in the 
18 
Official Gazette or in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
19 
20 
Approved, . 
1
L "". 
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 8 5 2 
) 
) 
) 
'13 
JUL 17 P:; :'-(; 
HF 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
While there exists an agency tasked to safeguard and promote the welfare 
of Filipino overseas workers, including the identification of legitimate job 
opportunities in foreign countries, there is no agency tasked to cover local job 
opportunities. 
There is no agency to serve as a national manpower data bank that can 
have a ready listing of all available manpower, classified according to their skills, 
technical or otherwise. 
The proposed National Manpower Data and Placement Center shall 
gather and collate all available data and statistics on the present labor force, both 
employed and unemployed, and update the same every semester. 
The Center can serve the government and the private sector in terms of 
specific labor supply. It can serve as a national labor pool which may be tapped 
any time by local companies and the government. 
The Center shall provide an efficient inventory and classification of our 
labor and skills supply for maximum use of manpower, More than this, the Center 
shall provide the pertinent data needed in studies and formulation of strategies to 
fight underemployment and unemployment. 
Passage of this bill therefore, is earnest sought. 
GOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
Senator 


SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
) 
) 
) 
___________ 
s_e_na_t_e_B_il_1 N_o_._8_5_2 ____ 
R_I.:_C_,_' '_:_"Y +_ 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
ESTABLISHING THE NATIONAL MANPOWER DATA AND PLACEMENT 
CENTER, AND PROVIDING FUNDS THEREFOR 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Policy. It is the policy of the government to promote the 
welfare of all workers in terms of harnessing their talents and skills to the fullest. 
Government shall endeavor to provide an efficient system in tapping such skills 
and talents. 
SEC. 2. There is hereby established a National Manpower Data and 
Placement Center under the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) 
which shall serve as the manpower and skills data bank and placement agency 
for local employment. The Center shall serve as counterpart of the Philippine 
Overseas Employment Administration (POEA). 
SEC. 3. The DOLE shall promulgate the necessary rules and regulations 
of this Act. 
SEC. 4. It is hereby authorized to be appropriated, out of any funds of the 
National Treasury, not otherwise appropriated, a sum to carry out the provisions 
of this Act. Thereafter, such sum, and any increase thereof, shall be included in 
the General Appropriations Act. 
SEC. 5. All acts, presidential decrees, and issuance nor consistent with 
this Act are hereby repealed. 
SEC 6. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after publication in at 
least two newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 9 8 0 
) 
) 
) 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
This piece of legislation seeks to uphold Section 18 of Article II of the 1987 
Constitution which states that "that the State affirms labor as a primary social 
economic force. It shall protect the rights of workers and promote their welfare." 
Additionally, the State is also mandated to promote the right to health of the 
people and instill health consciousness among them. 
Reproductive diseases are prevalent in women. By reason of the fragile 
physical structure and maternal functions of women, the Constitution, specifically 
Section 14 of Article XIII, gives special concern to working women and expressly 
mandates the State to protect them by providing safe and healthful conditions, 
taking into account their maternal functions. 
And to effectively carry out the intent and spirit of the above-mentioned 
state policies, particularly in the alleviation and protection of the welfare of 
women workers both in government and private sectors there is a need to 
approve this bill. 
Senator 


SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 
9 8 0 
) 
) 
) 
'13 U;U Ii (! :26 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
GRANTING A ONE (1) MONTH NON-CUMULATIVE LEAVE WITH PAY TO 
WOMEN WORKERS WHO UNDERGO MAJOR SURGICAL INTERNAL 
OPERATIONS ON THEIR REPRODUCTIVE ORGANS 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Women workers in government and private sectors undergo 
major internal surgical operations on their reproductive organs such as, but not 
limited to, partial or complete hysterectomy shall be granted a one-month leave 
of absence with pay. 
SEC. 2. 
Such leave shall not be deducted from their sick or vacation 
leave credits but should be treated as a special leave similar to maternity leave. 
SEC. 3. The leave benefits provided under this Act shall be cumulative. 
SEC. 4. The Department of Labor and Employment and the Department 
of Health shall promulgate the necessary rules and regulations for the effective 
implementation of this Act. 
SEC. 5. 
This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its complete 
publication in two (2) newspapers of general circulation in the Philippines. 
Approved,
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 
502 
Introduced by Senator Cynthia A. Villar 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Constitution provides that, to wit: 
'13 
JUL -8 II 8 :03 
"Section 14. (2) In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall be 
presumed innocent until the contrary is proved, x x x" 
Presentation to the public or media of any person suspected of committing 
a crime prior to the filing of formal charges against him violates the constitutional 
right of such person to be presumed innocent. It unduly subjects the suspect to 
public ridicule and scorn without due process. 
To address the problem, this bill proposes that any person who shall 
violate the said constitutional right shall be held criminally and civilly liable. 
In view of the foregoing, the approval of this bill is earnestly requested 


SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
SenatElBili No, 
502 
>~ ; ;~ .. ' 
't 
Introduced by Senator Cynthia A. Villar 
1 
AN ACT 
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-
(~lfll'r of Hll? i'l :",;~:r~ 
'13 
JUL -8 
f'1 B :03 
2 
PROHIBITING THE PRESENTATION TO THE PUBLIC OR MEDIA OF 
3 
SUSPECTS PRIOR TO THE FILING OF FORMAL CHARGES AGAINST THEM 
4 
5 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the 
6 
Philippines in Congress assembled: 
7 
8 
SECTION 1. Prohibited Act. It shall be unlawful for any person to present 
9 
to the public or media any suspect under investigation by a government agency 
10 
or office prior to the filing of formal charges against him or her. 
11 
12 
SECTION 2. Exception. The presentation to the public or media may be 
13 
allowed upon a written consent of the suspect given with the assistance of 
14 
counsel preferably of his/her own choice. 
15 
16 
SECTION 3. Penalty. Any person found guilty of violating the provisions of 
17 
this Act shall be sentenced to one (1) to five (5) years imprisonment and a fine of 
18 I 
not less than P20,OOO.OO. 
19 
20 
SECTION 4. Separability Clause. If any provision or part hereof, is held 
21 
invalid or unconstitutional, the remainder of the law or the provision not otherwise 
22 
affected shall remain valid and subsisting. 
23 
24 
SECTION 5. Repealing Clause. Any law, presidential decree or issuance, 
25 
executive order, letter of instruction, administrative order, rule and regulation 
26 
contrary to or inconsistent with the provision of this Act is hereby repealed, 
27 
modified or amended accordingly. 
28 
29 
SECTION 6. Effectivity Chase. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days 
30 
after its publication in at least two newspaper of general circulation. 
31 
32 
33 
Approved,
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 8 6 3 
;y: ~ 
-rr--
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Consistent with the modern thought that society must live harmoniously 
with nature, it is incumbent upon the government to instill in the hearts and minds 
of the young the importance of such harmony. 
This bill seeks to integrate in the curricula of all educational institutions 
including non-formal, indigenous learning and out-of-school youth programs, a 
course on Philippine society and the environment. 
In view of the foregoing, immediate passage of this measure is earnestly 
sought. 
Senator 


SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
8' (~ 'i 
Senate Bill No, 
. I) d 
) 
) 
) 
"13 
JlIL 1"1 
f) 3,g 
,. "', £ 
"--U 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
TO INTEGRATE IN THE CURRICULA OF ALL EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS 
INCLUDING 
NON-FORMAL, 
INDIGENOUS 
LEARNING 
AND 
OUT-OF-
SCHOOL YOUTH PROGRAMS, A COURSE ON PHILIPPINE SOCIETY AND 
THE ENVIRONMENT 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. The teaching of the inter-relationship, appreciation, 
conservation, rehabilitation, promotion and development of the environment shall 
be included in the curricula of all public and private elementary and secondary 
schools, including non-formal, indigenous learning and out-of-school program, 
SEC. 2. The environment shall refer to the bio-physical world of human 
beings, the maritime, fluvial, and aerial domains, the mineral, coal, petroleum 
oils, all forces of potential energy, fisheries, flora and fauna and all other natural 
resources, 
SEC. 3. There is hereby created a course with a proposed title "The 
Philippine Society and its Environment" which shall be added to the elementary 
and secondary school level curriculum. In addition to the teaching of the inter-
relationship 
appreciation, 
conservation, 
rehabilitation, 
promotion 
and 
development of environment, the course shall likewise include the teaching of 
environmental laws in the Philippines. 
SEC. 4. The Department of Education (DepEd) in coordination with the 
Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) shall promulgate the 
necessary rules and regulations and call upon the assistance of other 
government agencies, offices, entities and instrumentalities for the purpose of 
implementing the provisions of this Act 
SEC. 5. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication on 
the Official Gazette or in at least two (2) newspapers of general publication. 
Approved,
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
) 
) 
) 
Senate Bill No. 
9'79 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The country is presently facing increased levels of environmental 
degradation - air and water pollution, deforestation and the dumping of toxic 
water - that the Government must take the initiative to meet the challenge it 
presents. 
It is for this reason that the bill seeks to establish a Committee on 
Environmental Protection in each local government legislative council in order 
that each Sanggunian can definitely focus itself on the conditions of each region 
as each has diverse characteristics peculiarly its own. Also, the enactment of 
this legislation will open awareness to the importance of protecting the 
environment not only for the survival of plants and wildlife but importantly to the 
health and welfare of the human race. 
In view of the foregoing considerations early passage of this bill is 
earnestly sought. 
Senator 


SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 
9 7 9 
) 
) 
) 
,5': 
" 
<i;:" ",c" ',' " 
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-:' r'~lllfl '1t!l,r ~:~\-,d:lf~ 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
MANDATING THE CREATION OF A COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENTAL 
PROTECTION IN EACH LOCAL GOVERNMENT LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
. 
SECTION 1. It is hereby mandated that a Committee on Environmental 
Protection shall be created in each Sangguniang Panlalawigan, Sangguniang 
Panglungsod and Sangguniang Bayan to address legislation in the said 
legislative bodies related to all environmental protection matters. 
SEC. 2. This Act shall take effect upon its approval. 
Approved,
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No, 
983 
) 
) 
) 
~rn;,lr 
(l~Ht~!' Il! h'! ~~r',\,f!Unt 
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f 
J.. 
<_,,~, 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Prostate cancer is now one of the leading causes of death among Filipino 
males, Statistics show that about 25 percent (25%) of men afflicted with prostate 
cancer die ultimately. Patients who survive the cancer still require treatment to 
ease symptoms such as pain, bleeding and urinary obstruction. 
The American Cancer Society and the American Urological Association 
recommend that men forty (40) years or older undergo periodic testing for the 
early detection of prostate cancer. Early detection will prevent future disease 
progression. 
Also, treatment in the early stages of cancer is less costly than when done 
in its advanced stages. 
This bill seeks to establish a program to educate the public and increase 
awareness on prostate cancer. 
In view hereof, the early passage of this proposed measure is highly 
recommended. 
OY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
Senator 


SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 9 B 3 
) 
) 
) 
" 
'''~, 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
.~I'1Pi if, 
u;tlh:r 'l~ Hl!: ~~prrbry 
ESTABLISHING A PROGRAM FOR PUBLIC EDUCATION ON PROSTATE 
CANCER 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Short Title - This Act may be cited as the "Prostate Cancer 
Public Awareness Act". 
SEC 2. Definition. - For purposes of this Act, the term -
(a) "Director" means the Director of the Non-Communicable Disease 
Control Service of the Department of Health. 
SEC 3. Establishment of Program for Public Education on Prostate 
Cancer. - The Director shall carry out a program on prostate cancer. Through the 
program, he shall conduct or support activities -
(a) 
to educate males who are forty (40) years of age or older on the 
need to periodically undergo physical examinations for such 
cancer, including education on the frequency and type of such 
examination that are appropriate for various age groups of such 
men; and 
(b) 
to educate males on the availability and appropriateness of 
procedures for detecting the cancer in its early stages, including 
the procedure known as prostate ultrasound. 
SEC 4. Separability Clause. - If any provision, or part hereof is held 
invalid or unconstitutional, the remainder· of the law or the provision not otherwise 
affected shall remain valid and subsisting. 
SEC 5. Repealing Clause. - Any law, presidential decree or issuance, 
executive order, letter of instruction, administrative order, rule or regulation 
contrary to or inconsistent with, the provisions of this Act is hereby repealed. 
modified or amended accordingly. 


SEC 6. Effectivity Clause - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days 
after its publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
, , 
6':,_ t')l"1 "it'l~j~ 
;;"II-"**,O 
~ 
I1:;:Hht:" 1'.1' H;< ~;>-t'ftf:'ll ~ 
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
'13 
JilL -3 ill? :29 
SENATE 
S. No. 
::5,32 
""If 
,Introduced by SENATOR PIA S. CAYETANO 
-----------------~------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The United Nations, in which the Philippines is a founding member, has 
established November 20 of each year as the Universal Children's Day, with one 
hundred forty nine member countries observing the day for forty one years now. 
In a country like the Philippines where the struggle for peace and 
prosperity is felt and suffered most by children, a single-minded and concerted 
effort to create a "children's rights culture" has to be made. 
This bill, if enacted into law, will make November 20 a national holiday and 
will be known as the National Children's Day to coincide with the United Nations' 
Universal Children's Day. This will give Filipino families a day of each year to 
celebrate and have appreciation for the rights of our children. 
For these reason, approval of this Bill is urgently sought. 


SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
S, No, 332 
) 
) 
) 
Introduced by SENATOR PIA S. CAYETANO 
AN ACT 
DECLARING NOVEMBER 20 OF EVERY YEAR A SPECIAL WORKING HOLIDAY 
TO BE KNOWN AS NATIONAL CHILDREN'S DAY 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines 
in Congress assembled: 
SECTION- 1. This Act shall be known as the "National Children's Day Act of 
2013," 
SECTION 2. 
November 20 of every year is hereby declared as National 
Children's Day and a special working holiday in the country to commemorate the United 
Nation's General Assembly ratification of the Convention on the Rights of the Child and 
instill the significance of the Rights of the Child in the public consciousness, 
SECTION 3. All learning levels of educational institutions, both public and 
private, shall celebrate the Day in simple ceremonies and hold appropriate activities 
with emphasis on inculcating in the minds of the students a children's rights culture that 
aims for a sustainable youth development in the country, 
SECTION 4. All private enterprises are encouraged to observe National 
Children's Day in simple rites and participate in activities based on their discretion. 
SECTION 5. The Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC) shall take the lead in 
the celebration of the National Children's Day. 
SECTION 6. 
The CWC is hereby likewise authorized to call upon any 
department, bureau, office, agency, or instrumentality of the government, including 
government-owned or controlled corporations, for such assistance as may be needed in 
the discharge of its functions. 
SECTION 7. Any provision of law, decree, order, rule, or regulation inconsistent 
with this Act is hereby repealed and/or modified accordingly. 
SECTION 8. This Act shall take effect upon its approval. 
Approved,