bettergovph/raw-philippine-data huggingface dataset:
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
]
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
]
First Regular Session 
]
SENATE 
S.B. No. 3 7 5
BILLS
Introduced by SEN. WIN GATCHALIAN
AN ACT
ESTABLISHING THE BILL OF RIGHTS OF TAXI PASSENGERS
EXPLANATORY NOTE
A common carrier is bound to carry the passengers safely as far as hum an 
care and foresight can provide, using the utm ost diligence of veiy cautious persons, 
with a due regard for all the circum stances.” (Article 1755 of the Civil Code).
We have seen countless videos and heard sordid stories of cab drivers who are 
abusive, negligent and prey on unsuspecting passengers. They pick passengers on 
their terms, refuse carriage for some destinations, force you to pay an extra am ount 
on top of the meter bill, are discourteous and tricks most passengers on circuitous 
routes to earn extra money. Most of the tourists who come to our country have fallen 
victims to these enterprising cab drivers. This sad state to our transportation system 
has been tolerated and ignored for lack of laws that singly protect our commuting 
public. Most people are likewise dismayed over the inadequacy of law enforcers who 
are responsive and sympathetic to such concerns.
In order to address this problem and prevent any more untoward incidents of 
this nature to occur in the future, a passenger bill of rights is herelw.p>rt5pbs^ 
protect the commuting public from abusive, itinerant, and d isco u rt^^s drivers anc 
provide sanctions for the offenses they commit against the riding public.
The immediate passage of this bill is earnestly sough-t
\
t j f f u i  of IJ|e(^ ’»’n  r t i r ^
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
S E N A ^
S.B. No. 
O  D  0_
•16 
JUL20 
P 2 S 9
RJ'ri'. . , . HY;
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR TAX RELIEF IN TIMES OF CALAMITY
f x p l a n a t o r y  n o t e
As we faced a number of terrible natural disasters in the past years, from super­
typhoons to earthquakes and flash floods, we saw the bayanihan spint of every Fihpino 
eager to give their time and resources to suffering Filipino families.
Unfortunately, with the Philippines being considered one of the most affected by the 
effects of climate change, we must brace ourselves for much more calamities in the years t0 
come as well as create systems that ensure quick and efficient recovery from such disasters.
One such system that needs to be reevaluated with an eye for victims of calamities is 
our tax system. As such, this measure seeks to relieve our countrymen affected by terrible 
distress of the burden of taxes to encourage a quicker recovery.
This bill safeguards donations to victims of calamities by allowing organizations 
exemption from donor's tax provided that at least 90% of the donations go directly to the 
affected community and not administrative costs.
In addition, this bill mandates real estate tax exemption for affected communities for 
two years from declaration of a state of calamity.
Lastly, in support of our local entrepreneurs who provide for their families and 
generate jobs within their community through business, business establishments affected 
by a calamity shall be exempted from tax payments for a period of one year after the
calamity.
This measure adds to the various initiatives of government, civil society, and the 
private sector to strengthen our resilience to adversity and invigorate the spirit o 
bayanihan ingrained in the collective heart of Filipinos.
^ p n a tp
d f h t t  o f Ih tJ ^ r r r e ta r fi
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s. No. 
59.0
■16 
JUL19 
P5 5 5
Rl 
)v
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
STRENGTHENING THE FORFEITURE POWERS OF THE STATE, AMENDING 
FOR THE PURPOSE CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 1379 
OTHERWISE KNOWN AS "AN ACT DECLARING FORFEITURE IN FAVOR OF 
THE STATE ANY PROPERTY FOUND TO HAVE BEEN UNLAWFULLY 
ACQUIRED BY ANY PUBLIC OFFICER OR EMPLOYEE AND PROVIDING FOR 
THE PROCEEDINGS THEREFOR"
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Asset forfeiture is an acknowledged potent tool for recovering the proceeds and 
instrumentalities of corruption. Recovery of properties acquired through illegal activities 
deters public officials from indulging in corrupt and primitive accumulation of wealth. In 
cognizance of the aforementioned significance of assets forfeiture. Republic Act No. 1379 
which provides for a legal framework for the seizure and forfeiture of illicit assets was passed 
into law. Nonetheless, there is an urgent need to expedite asset seizure thereby maximizing its 
efficacy.
This measure seeks to strengthen RA 1379 by (1) granting greater authority and power to the 
Office of the Ombudsman to combat corruption through the exercise of forfeiture of assets 
illegally acquired by public officials; and (2) providing for a more timely mechanism on the 
same. Moreover, this measure seeks to increase the penalties against erring public officials. 
Further, this measure seeks to put forward the following amendments to RA 1379:
1. SEC. 3. PRESUMPTION; Failure of a public officer or employee to file a Statement 
of Assets and Liabilities and Net Worth pursuant to Section 8 of R.A. 6713 within 
thirty days from date of assumption to office shall be prima facie evidence that said 
public officer or employee has no property, asset or business interest to declare at the 
beginning of his/her service.
2. SEC. 4. PRIMA FACIE UNLAWFULLY ACQUIRED PROPERTY: Whenever any 
public office or employee has acquired during his incumbency, amount of property 
which is manifestly out of proportion to his salary as such public officer or employee 
and to his other lawful income and the income from legitimately acquired property 
sources, said property shall be presumed prima facie to have been unlawfully 
acquired.
3. SEC. 5. FREEZE ORDER: When it appears upon the filing of the complaint provided 
for under section 2 of this Act that an unlawfully acquired property or properties exist 
as defined under Section 4 herein, the Ombudsman may, motu propio or upon motion
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC} 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
}
First Regular Session 
}
S E N A T E
S.B. No. 
254
RECEIVED
dateJUL
B IL L S
U O E X
Introduced by SENATOR LACSON
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The State recognizes the role of punong barangay or barangay chairmen as 
the chief executive of the Barangay government mandated to exercise efficient, 
effective and economical governance and maintain peace and order for the general 
welfare of its barangay constituents.
Inherent to the roles of punong barangay are to keep peace by organizing 
foot patrols, arbitrate in differences between community members, assist in the 
conduct of elections, and facilitate the evacuation of communities in disaster-hit 
areas brought by natural and man-made calamities.
In the conduct of these functions, especially during emergencies and 
calamities, barangay chief executives are the front-liners, putting their lives at risk 
in the service of their respective constituents.
However, the State recognizes that the mandated duties of the barangay 
chairmen are not commensurate to their meager honoraria, allowances and other 
emoluments. Similarly, barangay chief executives are not entitled with hazard duty 
pay.
The associated risks of their functions also place higher premium to their 
insurance coverage. Most importantly, the present insurance benefits provided to all 
government officials, including all punong barangay, pursuant to Republic Act. No. 
8291 (An Act Amending Presidential Decree 1146 as amended, expanding and 
increasing the coverage and benefits of Government Services and Insurance System 
(GSIS), instituting reforms therein, and for other purposes) is construed inadequate 
with regard to the payment of medical, death and burial expenses.
Hence, this bill seeks to provide additional insurance benefits to barangay 
chief executives over and above what they are currently receiving from GSIS in 
recognition of their contribution to the community and in advancing their welfare as 
public servants.
In view of the foregoing, immediate approval of this bill is earnestly 
requested.
PANFI
f. LACSON
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
SENATE
s. No. 
622
.ptnuh'
ffire g f  
: rl i, ^
‘16 
JUL19 
P 6 :l4
RFr,,:!v ;i' »>Y;
m '
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT 
_
PROVIDING FOR A HIGHWAY SAFETY PROGRAM IN THE PHILIPPINES AND 
FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
One adverse reality that is tied with development is increase in traffic accidents connected to 
mcreased motorization and infrastructure. Every year, worldwide, about 1.3 million people
get killed on roads. Vehicular accidents are likely to become the fifth leading cause of death 
m all age groups by 2030.
Lhe Sitati! 0fj’°fd.Safety of a country is normally gauged by the frequency of accidents. The 
Manila-based Asian Development Bank (ADB) reported that road accidents were now the 
leading cause of premature death globally for children and young people aged 5 to 29 years.
also cited a report from the World Health Organization, which noted that 90% of the deaths 
caused by road accidents are in low- and middle-income countries even if these countries 
only account for 50% of the world's total vehicles.
In the Philippines, 567 people were killed and 5,220 others were injured in the 11 285 
skS ^m ^nthron^ 
Philippine National Police-Highway Patrol Group during the first
Smce the Philippines signed the Vienna Convention in 1968, traffic control devices, such as 
traffic signs and markings, have generally followed international standards. Nevertheless 
there are still many signs installed that do not conform to standard colors or shapes. The 
X n Cber 0 f!raff1C S'gnS inStaIled 18 generally insufficient and in highly urbanized areas, these 
crrftsman\hipdy bC reC°8niZed 38 they comPete with giant billboards in visibility and
As the importance of road safety is realized, as well as how tremendous losses - in which the
stimated cost of these losses from accidents amount to approximately Php 150 billion per
S V  f7 m Preven;^fle phenomenon such as traffic accidents could be, this bill recognizes 
that road safety problem is significant. 
6
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES ) 
First Regular Session 
)
cn;iTi
SENATE 
S. No. 5 0 4
'■>- l ; ( f t f f i r e  of 
p^-tr|(
"16 
,I!JL 19 
P 2 :04
RFi'C
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
CONSOLIDATING THE LAWS GRANTING REWARDS TO INFORMERS OF 
VIOLATIONS OF INTERNAL REVENUE AND CUSTOMS LAWS, REPEALING 
FOR THIS PURPOSE SECTION 282 OF THE NATIONAL INTERNAL REVENUE 
CODE OF 1997, SECTION 3513 OF THE TARIFF AND CUSTOMS CODE OF THE 
PHILIPPINES, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Republic Act No. 2338, otherwise known as the Informer's Reward Law, was enacted to help 
the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) and the Bureau of Customs (BOC) run after tax cheats, 
tax evaders, and smugglers. This law awards fifteen percent (15%) of the amount recovered 
to any person who voluntarily gives definite information to the BIR and BOC on any tax 
fraud or smuggling case which results to the recovery of revenues, surcharges or fees and/or 
conviction of the guilty party.
However, this law was modified when the Tax Reform Act of 1997 (RA 8424) was enacted. 
Section 282 thereof provides that only a mere ten percent (10%) reward or One Million pesos 
(Php 1,000,000.00), whichever is lower, shall be given to any tax infonner.
The new law effectively discourages tax infonners to report fraud involving Ten Million 
pesos (Php 10,000,000.00) or more because no matter how big the tax frauds and liabilities 
are involved in a case, an infonner would only get a maximum of One Million pesos 
(Php 1,000,000.00)
As a result, collection inefficiency or tax enforcement and administration by the BIR and 
BOC have deteriorated. Meanwhile, collection goals and targets are not attained while the so- 
called "vaunted drive" of the government to improve tax collections, administration and 
enforcement has yet to bear fruit.
Tax collection during the term of President Arroyo, declined to a low of Twelve percent 
(12%), from the eighteen percent (18%) of fomier President Fidel Ramos. President Aquino 
himself, when he ran for office, vowed to recover the PI 50-billion annual leakage in the 
collection of taxes. It is hoped that with the passage of this bill, revenue collection will be 
reflective of the President's laudable vision of "Daang Matuwid".
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S. B. No.
S E N A T E
732
^ 
df
*16 
JU L 2 1  
A10:31
KL( la  . !, nV;
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT
PROVIDING STIFFER PENALTIES FOR THE CRIME OF THEFT AND ROBBERY 
OF PORTABLE COMMUNICATION DEVICES AND PORTABLE COMPUTERS
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Portable telecommunication devices have become indispensable tools in modern 
life. 
However, reports from law enforcement agencies reveal a high incidence of 
thievery of these devices, brought on by high demand for said devices and the ease with 
which the thieves are able to sell these stolen items.
As such, there is an urgent need to protect our people from targeted theft of these 
telecommunication devices.
This bill proposes to punish the malefactor by imposing heavier penalties. The 
approval of this bill is earnestly requested.
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
First Regular Session
)
)
SENATE
S. No. 9 9
dateJUn
i
BILLS
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR A COMPREHENSIVE NURSING LAW TOWARDS QUALITY 
HEALTH CARE SYSTEM, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR
Professional nurses provide safe, humane, quality and holistic care to individuals of varying 
age, gender and health status, population groups and community. They do duties in the 
hospitals they preferred in an irregular time.
As of 15 June 2015, there are 869,612 registered nurses in the Philippines. A total of 71,289 
or 8% of them are working abroad for better pay. Meanwhile, the remaining 92% are working 
here in the Philippines and receiving meager salaries. For hospital nurses, entry-level 
employment provides them with PI7, 255.00 a month (SG-10). Meanwhile, for nurses 
working under the local government units, they receive a daily wage ranging from P191.00 to 
P295.00. Worse, they are not given benefits such as Pag-Ibig, PhilHealth, etc. because their 
type of employment is labeled as having ‘no employer-employee relationship’. These 
amounts are not commensurate to the level of work that they do. This is one of the reasons 
why many of our nurses prefer to work abroad to provide for their families. Although, nurses 
are included in the salary increase under Executive Order No. 201, s. 2016, it is still not 
enough to cover for the everyday expenses as the cost of basic necessities are also increasing 
year after year.
Hence, this bill seeks to institutionalize the minimum base pay for nurses of not lower than 
Salary Grade 15 (SG 15) or its equivalent, including other incentives and benefits for entry 
level positions in government and private health institutions. Also, it seeks to strengthen the 
regulation of the nursing profession through empowering the Board of Nursing, allowing for 
the continuing education of nurse through open nursing education programs and a Code of 
Ethics and National Career Progression Program, adjudicating of administrative complaints 
against registered and licensed nurses, and through recognition, accreditation and certification 
of Advanced Nursing Practice, among others.
This measure was approved on 3rd Reading by both the Senate and the House of 
Representatives during the 16th Congress.
In view of the foregoing, the immediate approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
ANTO/NIO “SONNY” F. TRILLANES IV
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E
S.B. N o . 242
^ " received
2°dateJUL 0 4 20#z  
ui 
----------- m
Afl TIME; 
Co
In tro d u ced  by SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA
AN ACT CREATING THE DEPARTMENT OF FISHERIES, PROVIDING FOR 
ITS POWERS AND FUNCTIONS, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
Explanatory Note
Owing to its natural endowments and strategic geographical location, the 
Philippines is rich in marine, costal, and freshwater resources and ecosystems 
which serve important biological and economic functions. Thus, Article XII. 
Section 2, paragraph 2 of the 1987 Constitution provides that:
“The State shall protect the nation; marine wealth in its 
archipelagic waters, territorial sea, and reserve its use 
and enjoyment exclusively to Filipino citizens.”
The Philippine archipelago is made up of more than 7,000 islands outlined by 
more than 18,000 kilometers of coastline, bordering roughly seventy percent 
(70%) of the country’s municipalities. There are about 132 principal rivers 
throughout the archipelago which drain through the coastal zone measuring 27 
million hectares. This coastline is indented with several bays and gulfs that can 
serve as natural harbours.
Constituting the country’s territorial waters is a 220-million hectare fishing 
ground, of which 193.4 million hectares are oceanic waters and 26.6 million 
hectares are in the Exclusive Economic Zone. Within it are 38,000 hectares of 
lush mangrove cover and 810,000 square kilometers of coral reefs, home to 16 
mangrove species, 488 species of coral reefs, and 1,000 fish species.
The utilization and development of these marine and fishery resources had 
been constrained by inadequate laws and the government’s lack of focused 
attention to it. In 1975, all laws and decrees affecting fisheries were revised and 
consolidated under Presidential Decree No. 704. However, the country’s fishery 
resources have been degraded, if not completely destroyed by pollution, 
unregulated gathering of fishery products, illegal fishing, and by the use of 
fishing methods and gears which irreversibly harm natural marine and fresh 
water habitats.
Among the major causes of degradation, overfishing deserves the most 
attention. This overexploitation of traditional fishing grounds inevitably 
resulted to a decline in their productivity.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
FIRST REGULAR SESSION 
)
SENATE
S B. No.
145
DATE
INDEX
Introduced by Senator Cynthia A. Villar
AN ACT
MANDATING A TWO THOUSAND PESO ACROSS-THE-BOARD INCREASE IN 
THE MONTHLY PENSION WITH CORRESPONDING ADJUSTMENT OF THE 
MINIMUM MONTHLY PENSION UNDER THE SOCIAL SECURITY SYSTEM, 
AMENDING FOR THIS PURPOSE SECTION 12 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 1161, AS 
AMENDED, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE SOCIAL SECURITY ACT OF 1997
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The 1987 Philippine Constitution provides that "The State shall promote a just 
and dynamic social order that will ensure the prosperity and independence of the 
nation and free the people from poverty through the policies that provide adequate 
social services, promote full employment, a rising standard of living, and an 
improved quality of life of all.”'
It has indeed been a consistent policy of the Republic of the Philippines to 
establish and maintain a social security service that ensures the protection and 
promotion of the general welfare of the people.
As early as 1954, the Social Security System (SSS) was created through the 
enactment of Republic Act No. 1161 or the Social Security law pursuant to a policy 
"to establish, develop, promote and perfect a sound and viable tax-exempt social 
, security service suitable to the needs of the people throughout the Philippines which 
shall provide to covered employees and their families protection against the hazards 
of disability, sickness, old age and death, with a view of promoting their well-being in 
the spirit of social justice. "1 2
In protecting and promoting the well-being of employees and their families, 
the Social Security Law provides benefits which, among others, include monthly 
pensions of retirees. Section 12 of Republic Act No. 1161 provides that the minimum 
monthly pension or annuity was twenty-five pesos "if the employee has paid his 
contributions for at least ten years and has rendered to an employer at least three
1 The 1987 Philippine Constitution, Article II, Section 9
2 Republic Act 1161, Section 2 on Declaration of Policy
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
•16 JUL 19 A10--32
SENATE
S.B. No.
438
KF« EIVED BY;
In tro d u ced  by SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA
AN ACT PROVIDING FOR A MAGNA CARTA FOR WORKERS IN THE 
ENERGY SECTOR OF THE PHILIPPINES
Explanatory Note
This bill seeks to establish a Magna C arta for W orkers in the Energy Sector of 
the Philippines. Based on latest industry estim ates, the country will need 
12,000 m egawatts (MW) of additional capacity until 2030. Given th at this is 
roughly double the existing capacity, there is a clear need to attract com petent 
and highly-trained workers in the said sector.
In recognition of the crucial role played by workers in the energy sector for 
inclusive and sustainable growth, this legislative m easure proposes the 
following:
a. The creation of a career system  and salary scale for energy personnel in 
the government service; and,
b. That energy personnel covered by this bill shall be entitled to these 
benefits—honorarium ; 
hazard 
allowance; 
longevity 
pay; 
medical 
exam ination; collective negotiation agreem ent; and hardship allowance.
In view of the foregoing, early passage of this bill is requested.
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
'16 JUL20 A9:25
SENATE
s.No. 635
U I 1 ‘
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR A TWENTY (20) YEAR BARANGAY DEVELOPMENT 
PROGRAM, 
APPROPRIATING 
FUNDS 
THEREFOR 
AND 
FOR 
OTHER 
PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The barangay is the basic political unit of our nation. It serves as the primary planning and 
implementing unit of government policies, plans, programs, projects and activities in the 
community. It is the most direct avenue for the delivery of services to the citizenry.
There are more than 40,000 barangays in our country. With this proposed measure, the 
Government shall appropriate a seed fund of twenty billion pesos (Php 20,000,000,000.00) to 
accelerate the development of all our barangays as the primary political-economic unit of our 
nation within a twenty-year period. A continuing development program for all barangays 
shall be undertaken in accordance with a national master plan for the development of all 
barangays.
The program shall address the different needs in every barangay from physical infrastructure 
to economic infrastructure which shall ultimately make the barangay an economic unit and 
thus become the primary engine of growth for national development.
In view of the foregoing, the immediate approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
ANTOiyOv«‘SONNY” F.Vr ILLANES IV
» 
Senator
Iv'jfi)
>pnn'r
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC ) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session
))
' 1 
of t(,e .'."'fti fi'li ^
*16 
J1JL21 
P 3 :4 8
SENATE 
s.No. 8 6 6
H i- '
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Reeto
AN ACT
PROMOTING THE 
EASE 
OF 
DOING BUSINESS 
BY 
MANDATING THE 
AUTOMATIC APPROVAL OF BUSINESS PERMIT APPLICATIONS AFTER THIRTY 
DAYS OF INACTION AND EXTENDING THE VALIDITY PERIOD THEREOF
Explanatory Note
The Philippines has the 12th largest population and the 43rd largest eeonomy in the 
world and coupled with strong GDP growth over the past years, the Philippines is now among 
the top 15 preferred investment destinations of multinational enterprises.1 Yet the World Bank in 
its 2016 Report on Doing Business ranked the Philippines only in 103rd place (out of 185 
economies) for Ease of Doing Business. The low ranking not only reflects the possibility of 
lower direet foreign investments but it is also seen as a barrier to local Micro, Small and Medium 
Enterprise (MSME) growth and development.
It takes 16 procedures to navigate and an average of 29 days to start a business in the 
Philippines.2 Compared to our other ASEAN neiglibors in the “Ease in Starting a Business” 
rankings, the Philippines has perfonned poorly. The Philippines placed at 165th in the ranking of 
189 economies and lags behind Singapore ranked in 1st plaee, Malaysia in 14th place, Thailand in 
96th plaee, Vietnam in 119th place and Laos in 153rd place. 3
One of the reasons for this is the difficulty in obtaining business permits and licenses 
to set up businesses as well as the short validity period which becomes burdensome for the 
business community to be renewing frequently.
The aim of this bill is to increase partieipation in and promote the growth of business 
by providing for the automatic approval and release of business permits upon the lapse of thirty 
days of inaction , provided that all necessary documents have been submitted. The validity 
period of the said pennits should also be valid for a period of one year from the date of issuance 
instead of the eurrent practice of setting the expiration at the end of the fiseal year when it was 
filed.
Reducing barriers to business fonnalization can stimulate enterprise growth and 
create decent work opportunities.4 Obtaining the necessary business pennit is an important step 
towards formalization. A bigger formal economy would mean a higher tax base thereby 
potentially increasing revenues for the government. Fonnalization translates to higlier quality, 
better pay and sustainable employment as well as improve access to fonnal markets and more 
productive resources such as capital and land. 5
'Doing Business 2016, World Bank Report
2 ibid.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
)
! i '
■ 
i f f ' -  • 
^  ‘ —
 ^
'16 
^ll, I9 
P : : / 1
SENATE
s. No. 
538
’’V-
______________Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV______________
AN ACT
TO 
ESTABLISH 
THE 
NATIONAL 
RESEARCH, 
DEVELOPMENT 
AND 
EXTENSION CENTER FOR BANANA, AUTHORIZING THE APPROPRIATION 
OF FUNDS THEREFOR, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Banana and plantains are grown in every humid tropical region. Being the fourth (4th) largest 
food crop, this fruit constitutes a vital role for the household food security and is the mainstay 
in the crop production of one hundred thirty (130) developing economies particularly for 
small and marginalized farmers worldwide.
In the country, banana is an important dollar-eaming export crop. The Philippines has the 
biggest hectarage of banana plantations (about 339,196 hectares) in the Asian region, 80% of 
which are owned by small farmers. In tenns of trade, the country is the fifth largest exporter 
of banana with 1.1 million metric tons total export yearly. It is the only Asian country among 
the world's top 10 banana suppliers and dominates tbe Japanese market.1 The Philippines 
contributed almost 10% of the world supply in years 1996-2005. Two-thirds of the bananas 
exported are grown in Mindanao Island. The country is also the main world exporter of 
banana chips and the demand is increasing. Chips are exported to 30 countries with US and 
EU being the major importers.2
In view of the foregoing, the early passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
ANTOI)fi^^t^^lNY” ^/TRILLANES
Senator
BAR, UNDP link up to preserve Philippine endemic crops. Information retrieved from
http://www.bar.gov.ph/chronicle-home/archives-li.st/383-march-2005-issue/2741-bar-undp-link-up-to-pre.serve- 
philippine-endemic-crops on 6/25/2013.
■ Banana: Postharvest Situationer. Information retrieved from
http://www.philmech.gov.ph/phindustry/banana/htmon6/25/2013.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E  
S. B. No.
date) UN
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT
REVERTING TO THE NATIONAL GOVERNMENT THE DISCHARGE OF BASIC 
AGRICULTURAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES DEVOLVED TO LOCAL 
GOVERNMENT UNITS AND AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO.
7160, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT CODE OF 1991
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Congress is mandated under the law to undertake a mandatory review of Republic Act 
No. 7160 otherwise known as the Local Government Code of 1991.
In various consultations with concerned constituents nationwide, it has been determined 
that amendments to the Local Government Code of 1991 should be introduced to rationalized 
agrieultural services.
The recent passage of Republic Act No. 8435 otherwise known as the Agriculture 
Modernization Act of 1997 makes it imperative that the Department of Agriculture, the lead 
department tasked to implement the law, for its monitoring and data gathering requirements, 
shall have complete administrative control and supervision over all personnel in the field level 
that are involved in agriculture and fishery, in order to effectively implement and achieve the 
objectives of the Agriculture and Fisheries Law. More so, the DA devolved agricultural 
extension workers are a potent force that ean be utilized to pole vault the country's present 
agrieultural growth to fast growing agricultural-based economy.
Time and again, the government has always placed agricultural productivity as one of its 
priority and to address this thrust it is imperative to amend eertain provisions of the Local 
Government Code for the effective and efficient implementation of its program thrusts.
With the above eited reasons, the urgent passage of this measure is earnestly requested.
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session
SEN
S.B.
i
BILLS
Introduced by Senator Poe
AN ACT
TO PROMOTE COST-EFFECTIVE MEASURES FOR THE TRANSPORT SECTOR AND 
COMMUTING PUBLIC, PROVIDING FOR THE CREATION OF A NATIONAL 
TRANSPORTATION SAFETY BOARD, PRESCRIBING ITS POWERS AND FUNCTIONS,
AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR
Explanatory Note
The list of transportation-related injuries and casualties grows longer day by day. According to 
the World Health Organization’s “World Report on Road Traffic Injury Prevention,” the human suffering 
for victims and their families of road traffic-related injuries is incalculable and there are endless 
repercussions which cause families to break up and high counselling costs for the bereaved relatives.
The proposed National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) shall be an independent and non- 
regulatory agency mandated to determine the probable cause of transportation related accidents on land, 
sea and air including railway and pipeline systems. Among the functions of the proposed NTSB include 
conducting safety inspections on land, sea and air transportation and appraising or assessing existing 
practices and policies regarding the transportation sector.
This legislation is submitted to effectively investigate transportation-related incidents in the 
country and in line with the transfer of all communications units of the Department of Transportation and 
Communications to a newly-approved agency.
This measure is also inspired by the efforts of road safety advocate Ms. Elvira Medina of the 
National Commuter Safety and Protection that an agency is needed to create a master plan that will 
improve the country’s transportation sector.
As such, approval of this measure is earnestly sought.
CE POE
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE 
S. No. 
6 0 3
*16 JUL19 P5:27
RF.fTJV-,! ‘ 3W;
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillancs IV
AN ACT
PRESCRIBING RATES OF PAY AND ALLOWANCES FOR OFFICERS AND 
ENLISTED PERSONNEL OF THE ARMED FORCES OF THE PHILIPPINES (AFP) 
WHILE ON OVERSEAS DUTY WITH A PHILIPPINE EXPEDITIONARY OR 
PEACEKEEPING CONTINGENT PURSUANT TO A PHILIPPINE COOPERATIVE 
COMMITMENT TO A UNITED NATIONS SANCTION OR POLICY AND FOR 
OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
It is clearly enshrined in the Constitution that war is renounced as an instrument of national 
policy. In light of adopting generally-accepted principles of internal law and promoting 
peace, justice, freedom and amity with all nations, our country has been sending 
peacekeeping and/or expeditionary contingents overseas in complianee with its international 
commitments as a member of the United Nations (UN).
Republic Act No. 573 or the Philippine Military to the United Nations Act, which was 
enacted in 1950, provided for the creation, organization, equipage and rates of pay of the 
Philippine Expeditionary Force to Korea. However, there is no legislation that determines the 
rates of pay and financial support that members of the contingents should receive, particularly 
regarding financial assistance provided by the UN.
This bill seeks to standardize the rates of pay, allowances and benefits of officers and enlisted 
personnel of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) serving overseas with a Philippine 
peacekeeping/expeditionary contingent. The measure provides guidelines for the proper 
treatment and utilization of funds for contingents, especially from the UN, thus, removing too 
much discretion on the part of the AFP but not sacrificing the needs of men and women on 
the field.
In view of the foregoing, the immediate passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
A N T O ;^ ‘‘SONNY’’ A TRILLANES IV
• 
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
S. No.
)
)
604
t$ffire of ttjejh rn rrfarif
’16 
JUL 19 
P5 2 8
Introduced by Sec. Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV RI f
AN ACT
EXPANDING THE SCOPE OF THE PRACTICE OF MIDWIFERY, AMENDING 
FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7392, OTHERW ISE KNOWN AS THE 
"PHILIPPINE MIDWIFERY ACT OF 1992" AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The United Nations Population Fund underlines the critical role of midwives in the reduction of child 
mortality and delivery of quality maternal healthcare in the country. "Midwives are key healthcare 
facilitators m helping to achieve Millennium Development Goals 4 (reducing child mortality) 5 
(improving maternal health) and 6 (combating HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases)."1
Cognizant of the above magnitude of their task, this measure seeks to strengthen and expand the scope 
or the midwifery profession by amending the 20-year old Philippine Midwifery Act of 1992 with the 
end m view of reducing maternal and prenatal morbidity and mortality.
This measure seeks to put forward the following amendmentsi
• 
grant additional powers as well as enhance the general welfare and commitment to service 
and professionalism of midwives;
• 
allow midwives to administer life-saving drugs when no physician is available, provided that 
they are appropriately trained for such purpose;
• 
require midwives to be certified proficient to perfonn the necessary care and services to 
prevent maternal deaths and allow them to administer essential newborn care;
• 
require practicing midwives who intend to perform Emergency Obstetric and Neonatal Care 
(EmONC) to apply for and acquire accreditation from the Department of Health (DoH); 
require registered midwives to maintain competence by continual learning through 
Continuing Professional Development (CPD) to be provided by the accredited professional 
organization or any recognized professional midwifery organization;
provide for a mandated comprehensive midwifery program which includes a valid assessment 
of career performance and potential of midwives; and
• 
provide for the minimum base pay of midwives in public health institutions which shall not be 
lower than the 1st step of the hiring rate prescribed for the positions under E.O. No. 201.
In view the foregoing, the immediate passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
T
ANTONIO “SONNY’"F. TRILLANES IV
Senator
M Stn 7 e| l M id f iVeS Er
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SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session
BILLS &
Introduced by Senator Poe
AN ACT
PROHIBITING DISCRIMINATION ON THE BASIS OF ETHNICITY, RACE, 
RELIGION OR BELIEF, SEX OR GENDER OR SEXUAL ORIENTATION^ 
LANGUAGE, DISABILITY, EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT AND OTHER FORMS 
OF DISCRIMINATION AND PROVIDING PENALTIES FOR THE PURPOSE
Explanatory Note
The 1987 Philippine Constitution guarantees equal protection for everyone. Article II, 
Section 10 declares the policy of the State to “promote social justice in all phases of national 
development.” Section 11 provides that the State “values the dignity of every human person and 
guarantees full respect for human rights,” while Section 14 imposes on the State the duty to 
value the “role of women in nation-building, and shall ensure the fundamental equality before 
the law of women and men.”
Article III, Section 1 of the fundamental law states that, “[n]o person shall be deprived of 
life, liberty or property without due process of law, nor shall any person be denied the equal 
protection of the laws.”
The United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), which the 
Philippines is a signatory, provides that the “recognition of the inherent dignity and of the equal 
and inalienable rights of all members of the human family is the foundation of freedom, justice 
and peace in the world.” The UDHR also provides that everyone is entitled to all the rights and 
freedoms without distinction of any kind such as race, color, sex or gender or sexual orientation 
language, religion political or other opinion, educational attainment, national or social origin, 
property, birth or other status1.
This proposal seeks to enhance the basic rights enshrined in the Constitution and several 
international declarations, prevent and criminalize various forms of discrimination and penalize 
such. Any form of discrimination may be categorized as a crime against humanity and human 
dignity iii that several international declarations promote the equal treatment of all people and 
prevent discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, and other status.
Under this measure, discriminatory acts such as inflicting stigma, denial of education, 
political, civil and cultural rights, right to work, access to goods and services, and the right to 
organize, inflicting harm on health and well-being, engaging in profiling, abuses by state and 
non-state agencies, and detention and confinement are strictly prohibited and will be met with 
corresponding penalties.
1 R e trie v e d  fr o m : h ttp ://w w w .u n .o r g /e n /d o c u m e n ts /u d h r /
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
( § f ( i r » o f  lllf.,11 rrut-itu
*16 JUL20 P4:27
SENATE
S.B. No. 
696
H F ( '( i V ' ' 1 « Y ;
Introduced by; Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT RECOGNIZING RIDESHARE SUPPORT COMPANIES, PROVIDING REGULATIONS 
GOVERNING THEIR OPERATIONS, AND CLARIFYING THE SCOPE OF COMMONWEALTH ACT 
NO. 146, ALSO KNOWN AS THE PUBLIC SERVICE LAW, THE TAX CODE, AND THE LAND 
TRANSPORTATION AND TRAFFIC CODE, AND OTHER RELEVANT LAWS
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The rain is pouring heavily and commuters are muddled together under the shade. Taxi 
queues are long and winding yet taxis are nowhere in sight.
Those that decide to brave the rain in search for a cab ride are met with picky drivers or 
unreasonable contracted rates. To make matters worse, stories of robbery perpetrated by malicious 
taxi drivers, has left passengers w ith a justifiable fear and distrust of taxis.
In any industry, increased competition would often lead to improved quality, improved 
service, and lower prices for consumers. For the commuting public, this is a change they have long 
clamored for.
Recent technological innovations ushered in an era of ride sharing, giving commuters the 
option of securing convenient, safe, and affordable rides through internet-based applications.
The DOTC has already recognized these innovations "as a driver for progress" and as one of 
the solutions to "help address the increasing demand for m obility spurred by rapid urbanization."
In support of these innovations, the DOTC issued a Memorandum Circular (MC) in 2015 to 
recognize these ride-sharing services under a new category called "Transportation Network Vehicle 
Service" and allowed them to operate within the agency's existing regulatory framework.
While the release of the MC is a significant milestone for the promotion of ride-sharing 
services in the country, there is a need for legislation to create and institutionalize an appropriate 
regulatory framework for this new type of service and to distinguish it from  public transport 
services.
The proposed bill clarifies the regulations governing Transportation Network Companies, 
referred to in the bill as "Rideshare Support Companies", as well as Rideshare Network Drivers and 
Vehicles.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES ) 
First Regular Session)
' ■ >. i ^  ( O i f i t t  o f  11’ " 
TI-! If
■1^) 
I'll, 2 6  
A 9 : 3 9
SENATE 
Senate Bill No.__
r
 ■
Introduced by SENATOR JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO
AN ACT PROVIDING AN ASSISTANCE PROGRAM FOR OVERSEAS 
FILIPINO WORKERS IN DISTRESS, AND PROVIDING FUNDS THEREFOR
AND FOR OTHER PURPOSE
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The 1987 Philippine Constitution, Article XIII, Section 3 thereof, states that;
The State shall afford full protection to labor, local and overseas, 
organized and unorganized, and promote full employment and equality of 
employment opportunities for all. X X X
It has consistently been a matter of government policy to provide every 
possible manner of aid and assistance to our brothers and sisters who toil overseas. 
But even the best policies must fail if there are no concrete resources allotted to their 
implementation. As such, in line with House Bills no. 1243 and 5331, this bill aims to 
create a Special Assistance Fund for Overseas Filipino Workers in Distress, to ensure 
that our overseas countrymen who are most in need shall be provided with, not just 
the cold comfort of intangible promises, but the financial aid necessary to ensure 
their freedom and good health. They certainly deserve no less.
The passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S. B. No.
S E N A T E
747
.-•f'vs
W -
(9 K tfP . o f  t l l t , l 1i r t r l. - ir ii
•16 111 21 
A10:50
KS'.r ,i •
'lY:
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT DECLARING JULY 25 OF EVERY YEAR AS THE NATIONAL CAMPUS PRESS FREEDOM DAY
EXPLANATORY NOTE
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
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHIILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session
SENATE 
s. No. 
^ 3 8
* ■5' . . ’'*■ ‘f ll 'f i r t  o f M.t. 
,
] 
'16 
.lUL 21 
P 3 : 1 0
HH
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto
AN ACT
GRANTING BROADER PROTECTION TO CONSUMERS AMENDING FOR 
THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7394, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS “THE 
CONSUMER ACT OF THE PHILIPPINES”
Explanatory Note
This bill seeks to amend Republic Act (R.A.) No. 7394 otherwise known as the 
“Consumer Act of the Philippines.”
Among the new provisions is the eight (8) Consumer Bill of Rights namely, the 
right to: basic needs, choose products, representation, redress, consumer education, 
safety, healthy environment, and sanitation. These rights have been endorsed by the 
United Nations through the United Nations Guidelines for Consumer Protection. 
Corollary to the consumer rights is the provision of five (5) consumer responsibilities to 
wit: critical awareness, action, social concern, environmental awareness, and solidarity.
The bill also provides a new Article mandating the English or Filipino translation 
of product labels written in foreign characters/languages. 
This will allow better 
understanding of the contents, features and uses of imported products for consumer 
protection against unsafe products. A new provision permanently banning suppliers 
engaged in the importation of defective goods has also been included.
The coverage of the provisions on advertising and promotion has been expanded 
to include those for consumer products, services and credit facilities which include 
sponsorships of programs, concerts, games, shows and similar activities.
A new Article also protects consumers from aggressive marketing promotions that 
significantly impair the average consumer’s freedom of choice with regard to the 
purchase of a product or service.
The chapter on Advertising and Sales Promotion is further strengthened with the 
addition of advertising general principles and a specific guideline in the presentation of 
advertisements. Hence, among others, the bill provides instructions on how 
advertisements should treat specific claims on ingredients, results of researches and 
surveys, scientific claims, testimonials and endorsements, and leadership claims.
The bill increases the penalties for violations of any provision of the Consumer 
Act of the Philippines. It sets a uniform penalty to be imposed on any violations and 
lengthened the period of prescription for claims relative to deceptive or unfair and 
unconscionable practice from two (2) to three (3) years.
Further amendments to R.A. No. 7394 include the definition of terms in 
accordance with new technologies and trade practices. Notable of these new definitions
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
i* <§ifife of Hip.^5 frirf.ir|j
■16 
JUL 28 All :24
SENATI 
S.B. No.
&18
r :
' ',V:—)f:
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT
SUPPORTING THE PRODUCTION OF FILIPINO FILMS BY PROVIDING GRANTS TO FILMMAKERS 
WHO ARE GIVEN HONORS IN NOTABLE INTERNATIONAL FILM COMPETITIONS AND FESTIVALS
Explanatory Note
The Philippines is home to award-winning filmmakers and artists. In the most recent 
Cannes Film Festival, a Filipina actress won the award for Best Actress in a film that portrayed 
living in poverty in the Philippines.
Filmmaking is a valuable part of our artistic landscape and is one way that we can 
showcase Filipino talent to audiences at home and around the world.
To enable and reward Filipino filmmakers, this bill seeks to provide incentives for the 
screening of award-winning films, and to award grants for talented Filipino filmmakers and 
artists who have won.
This bill seeks to provide incentives for the screening of award-winning films, and 
benefits through grants for the further creation of Filipino films under the creative control of 
award-winning filmmakers and artists.
The following are the salient features of the measure:
(a) Grant for Film producer of Best Film;
(b) Grant to award-winning cast and crew members; and
(c) Automatic "A" rating from the Cinema Evaluation Board.
In view of the foregoing, the passage of the bill is earnestly sought.
Senator PSolo Benigno "B a n f' A. Aquino IV