Republic of the Philippines 
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 
Quezon City 
19th CONGRESS 
Second Regular Session 
HOUSE BILL NO.  ____ 
___________________________________________________________________________ 
Introduced by REP. BERNADETTE “DETTE” G. ESCUDERO 
___________________________________________________________________________ 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Bicol Region is the country’s leading producer of pili nuts. According to the 2021 
data from the Philippines Statistics Authority (PSA), the region produced 84% of the total 
output equivalent to an impressive 4,932.60 metric tons. Pili nuts, an indigenous crop of the 
Philippines, thrive abundantly in the Province of Sorsogon. The 2018 Commodity Fact Sheet 
from the PSA indicates that Sorsogon contributes approximately 55% of the total production 
in the Bicol Region. Since 2014, Sorsogon has consistently held the title of the major pili nut 
producer among all the provinces in Region V, yielding 4,004.18 metric tons in that year and 
2,804.61 metric tons in 2023. Despite a slight decrease in production over the years, 
Sorsogon's annual output over the last decade still surpasses that of other provinces. In 
recognition of this status, this bill seeks to declare Sorsogon as the “Pili Capital of the 
Philippines.” Such recognition will serve as an inspiration to boost pili production in the country 
and ensure competitiveness in both domestic and foreign markets. 
Beyond raw production, Sorsogon has also showcased its competence in the pili 
industry by developing various pili-derived products such as candies, oil, jams, milk, cosmetics, 
and pharmaceuticals. With abundant opportunities and investments within the industry, the 
potential of pili as a locally-produced commodity can significantly boost the economy.  
Article 12, Section 1 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution mandates the promotion of 
industries that make full and efficient use of human and natural resources, fostering 
competitiveness in both domestic and foreign markets. In February 2023, foreign 
opportunities expanded as the European Union (EU) welcomed dried pili nuts among its list of 
novel foods approved for marketing in the 27 EU States.  This recognition presents a boon for 
local pili processors and exporters, enabling them to profit from higher-value goods. 
Furthermore, it opens avenues for job creation and livelihood enhancement for local farmers. 
In view of the foregoing, the immediate passage of this measure is earnestly sought. 
        BERNADETTE “DETTE” G. ESCUDERO 
10413
May 14, 2024
5:49 pm


1 
Republic of the Philippines 
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 
Quezon City 
19th CONGRESS 
Second Regular Session 
HOUSE BILL NO.  ____ 
___________________________________________________________________________ 
Introduced by REP. BERNADETTE “DETTE” G. ESCUDERO 
___________________________________________________________________________ 
AN ACT DECLARING THE PROVINCE OF SORSOGON AS THE PILI CAPITAL 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines 
in Congress assembled: 
Sec. 1. Declaration of Policy. – It is hereby declared the policy of the State to promote 
and support the pili industry in the country and ensure competitiveness in both domestic and 
foreign markets.  
To this end, the State shall recognize the importance of sustaining and enhancing pili 
production as a driver of economic development because pili self-sufficiency can tremendously 
increase the country’s export earnings and provide livelihood to our farmers.  
Sec. 2. Sorsogon as the Pili Capital of the Philippines. –  In recognition of its status as 
the country’s biggest producer of pili, the Province of Sorsogon is hereby declared the Pili 
Capital of the Philippines.  
Sec. 3. Effectivity. – This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in 
the Official Gazette or a newspaper of general circulation. 
Approved,  
10413