bettergovph/raw-philippine-data huggingface dataset:
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Second Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S.B. No. 3045 
" 
f;~>eHutf· 
{~fhrt: (If tI}I:~:~nrrbr1! 
'11 
NOV 16 P 1 :24 
". ',"';'" 1'1',' (2v 
,< ,~ ."\:"---
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Section 16, Article 111 of our Constitution gives each person the right to a 
speedy trial, it provides that: "All persons shall have the right to a speedy disposition 
of their cases before all judicial, quasi-judicial, or administrative bodies." 
The Judiciary Reorganization Act of 1980 (BP 129) allotted the corresponding 
number of courts per judicial region based on the exigencies existing at that time. 
Twenty seven years have passed since the effectivity of BP 129. 
Because of the increase in our population and the increase in the volume of cases 
filed, our court dockets have been clogged and this has resulted in the delay in the 
resolution of cases. 
In order to improve the disposition and administration of justice and to ensure 
the right to a speedy trial, the number of courts must necessarily be increased. 
In view of the foregoing provisions, the approval of this bill is earnestly 
recommended. 
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 


FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Second Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S.B. No. 3045 
!;~EllH<;P 
(~ltlry.lir Ih[,~&~~Otb\"ij 
'11 
NOV16 Pl:24 
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 
AN ACT 
CREATING TWO ADDITIONAL BRANCHES OF THE REGIONAL TRIAL COURT 
IN THE FOURTH JUDICIAL 
REGION TO 
BE 
STATIONED AT THE 
MUNICIPALITY OF GUMACA, PROVINCE OF QUEZON, FURTHER AMENDING 
FOR THE PURPOSE BATAS PAMBANSA BILANG 129, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS 
"THE JUDICIARY REORGANIZATION ACT OF 1980," AS AMENDED, AND 
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
assembled: 
1 
SECTION 1. Two (2) additional Regional Trial Court branches for Gumaca, 
2 
Quezon, with seats thereat, are hereby created in the Fourth Judicial Region. 
3 
4 
SECTION 2. The Supreme Court shall assign the respective branch numbers for 
5 
the newly created branches. 
6 
7 
SECTION 3. The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, in coordination with the 
8 
Secretary of the Department of Justice, shall immediately include in the Court's 
9 
program the implementation of this Act. 
The funding therefor shall likewise be 
10 
included in the annual General Appropriations Act. 
11 
12 
SECTION 4. Section 14 (e) of Batas Pambansa Bilang 129, otherwise known as 
13 
"The Judiciary Reorganization Act of 1980," as amended, as well as other provisions 
14 
that may be inconsistent herewith, is hereby deemed repealed, modified and/ or further 
15 
amended. 
16 
17 
SECTION 5. Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after 
18 
completion of its publication in the Official Gazette or two (2) newspapers of general 
19 
circulation. 
20 
21 
Approved, 
22
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Third Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No, __ 
3_3_5_' 
" :14 
Intl'Oduced by Senatol' Teofisto "TG" Guingona 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The 1987 Constitution mandates Congress to delineate forest lands and national parks, 
and to distribute alienable lands to qualified applicants to achieve the goals of national economy. 
In Palawan, however, this Constitutional decree has been sadly ignored or set aSIde III 
favour of other equally important measures and due to scarcity of funds, thus leaving vast tracts 
ofland still unclassified and unutilized. 
It is in this context that, after due deliberation, a parcel of land in Barangay Marcllla of 
Coron, Province of Palawan, became the subject of possible reclassification for a simple 
timberland into an alienable and disposable land. 
The goal is to cause said land to be allocated to and utilized by responsible individuals or 
entities who will be able to use the property for the benefit of the nation. 
Fo' 'h, furego;"" ~,o", ." ;mm,d;"", ",""'g' Of~ 
TEOFIS 
"TG" GUINGONA III 


FIFfEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Tizirtl Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 
, 1": 
3357 
IntJ'oduced by Senator Teofisto ''TG'' Guingona 
AN ACT 
CLASSIFYING A PARCEL OF TIMBERLAND LOCATED IN BARANGAY 
MARCILLA, CORON, PALA WAN, AS ALIENABLE AND DISPOSABLE LAND 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives oif the Philippines in Congress 
assembled: 
SECTION 1. The land comprising Seven Hundred Twenty Seven Thousand Seven 
Hundred Forty Six (727,746) square meters situated in Barangay Marcilla, Municipality of 
Coron, Province of Palawan, is hereby converted from timberland to alienable and disposable 
land. Said parcel ofland is particularly described as follows: 
THE LINE: From BM-l Diwaran, Barangay Marcilla, Coron, Palawan to Corner "1" is 
S.24°09'W., 58.49 M. 
LINES 
BEARINGS 
DISTANCES 
1-2 
N.33°35'W 
157.50 M. 
2-3 
N.58°15'W. 
126.25 M 
3-4 
N.72°32'W. 
114.35 M. 
4-5 
N.08°51 'W. 
21S.40 M. 
5-6 
N.34°0TW. 
254 OS M. 
6-7 
N.20042'E. 
234.69M. 
7-8 
N.63°2TE. 
133.57 M. 
8-9 
N.40026'E. 
124.8SM. 
9-10 
S.41°20'E 
3S7.57M. 
10-11 
S.36°33 'E. 
177.71 M. 
11-12 
S.07°39'E. 
107.11 M. 
12-13 
S.44°05'E. 
291.67 M. 
13-14 
S.44°22'E. 
238.04M 
1 


14-15 
S.49°08'E. 
331.34 M. 
15-16 
S.29°39'E. 
171.54 M 
16-17 
S.10039'E. 
79.04 M. 
17-18 
S.21°44'W. 
127.74 M 
18-19 
S.61 °51 'W 
65.95 M. 
19-20 
N.52°20'W 
134.74 M. 
20-21 
N.22°06'W 
60.07M. 
21-22 
N.65°39'W 
308.27 M. 
22-23 
N.50040'W 
206.75 M. 
23-24 
N.73°49'W 
158.69 M. 
24-25 
N.45°02'W 
10.39 M. 
25-1 
N.62°52'W 
71.68 M. 
SECTION 2. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources shall issue the 
necessary rules and regulations for the effective implementation of this Act. 
SECTION 3. All laws, decrees, orders, rules, and regulations or parts thereof, which are 
inconsistent within this Act are hereby repealed or amended accordingly. 
SECTION 4. This Act shall take effect upon its approval. 
Approved, 
2
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Second Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S.B. No. 3049 
'11 
!~OV 16 P 1 :28 
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Section 16, Article 111 of our Constitution gives each person the right to a 
speedy trial, it provides that: "All persons shall have the right to a speedy disposition 
of their cases before all judicial, quasi-judicial, or administrative bodies." 
The Judiciary Reorganization Act of 1980 (BP 129) allotted the corresponding 
number of courts per judicial region based on the exigencies existing at that time. 
Twenty seven years have passed since the effectivity of BP 129. 
Because of the increase in our population and the increase in the volume of cases 
filed, our court dockets have been clogged and this has resulted in the delay in the 
resolution of cases. 
In order to improve the disposition and administration of justice and to ensure 
the right to a speedy trial, the number of courts must necessarily be increased. 
In view of the foregoing provisions, the approval of this bill is earnestly 
recommended. 
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 


FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Second Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S.B. No. 
,~)~~iurhl 
(~'r{hre 01' 1I!~ .. ~~~'rn f'hH~ 
'11 
NOV 16 P 1 :2 B 
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 
AN ACT 
CREATING AN ADDITIONAL BRANCH OF THE REGIONAL TRIAL COURT IN 
THE FOURTH JUDICIAL REGION TO BE STATIONED AT THE MUNICIPALITY 
OF STA. CRUZ, PROVINCE OF LAGUNA, FURTHER AMENDING FOR THE 
PURPOSE BATAS PAMBANSA BILANG 129, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS "THE 
JUDICIARY 
REORGANIZATION 
ACT OF 1980," 
AS 
AMENDED, 
AND 
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
assembled: 
1 
SECTION 1. One (1) additional Regional Trial Court branch for Sta. Cruz 
2 
Laguna, with seat thereat, is hereby created in the Fourth Judicial Region. 
3 
4 
SECTION 2. The Supreme Court shall assign the respective branch number for 
5 
the newly created branch. 
6 
7 
SECTION 3. The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, in coordination with the 
8 
SecretalY of the Department of Justice, shall immediately include in the Court's 
9 
program the implementation of this Act. 
The funding therefor shall likewise be 
10 
included in the annual General Appropriations Act. 
11 
12 
SECTION 4. Section 14 (e) of Batas Pambansa Bilang 129, otherwise known as 
13 
"The Judiciary Reorganization Act of 1980," as amended, as well as other provisions 
14 
that may be inconsistent herewith, is hereby deemed repealed, modified andlor further 
15 
amended. 
16 
17 
SECTION 5. Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after 
18 
completion of its publication in the Official Gazette or two (2) newspapers of general 
19 
circulation. 
20 
21 
Approved, 
22
FifTEENTH CO)\lGRFSS or THE 
) 
RP:t~\JP~W Of TFJ:l"; ~mL]pflNBS ) 
1I1ird Re,~lIlar Session 
) 
SU:NATE 
S.B. No. 3353 
Introduced by Senator TEOFISTO "TG" GUINGONA III 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) is considered the "principal 
government agency for raising and providing funds tor health programs, medical assistance and 
services, and charities of national character,,3 The heart and soul of the PCSO is tts charitable 
pursuit 
The PCSO Charter allocates 30% of its net receipts to the Charity Fund As a result of 
regular maildatory contributions imposed upon the PCSO by vittue of several laws and executive 
orders, tile Charity Fund is greatly diminished. An overview of these decrees will reveal that 
most of the intended recipients, be it a government agency, or the implementatIOn of a 
government program, does not ill any way pertain to health or medical concerns. These 
mandatoty contributions should therefore be discontinued to increased and thereby enhance 
PCSO's Charity Fund. 
FCSO:S mandatmy contribution pUJ~·llanl 10 RA. 7835 or "The Comprehensive and Integrated 
Shelter Financing Acl oj 1994" should therefore be abolished. 
To emphasize, the heart and soul of PCSO is its charitable pursuit If we set aside funds 
for extraneous mandatoty contributions prior to allocating funds for charity, then this will negate 
the vety existence of PC SO. 
In view of the foregoing, the immediate enactment of this measure is earnestly sought 
, 
i 
Sec. 1, PCSO Charter, RA 1169. 
/ 
"TG" GUINGONA IU 
Senator 


FiFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES) 
TI-IlRD REGULAR SESSION 
) 
SENATE 
3 "'11:"3 
s. B. No __ .) OJ 
--------.. -------.. ----~---,---.---------- ._---_ ... _------------ ---
Introduced by Senator TEOFISTO "TG" GUINGONA III 
AN ACT 
A BOLlSHING REGULAR MANDATORY CONTRIBUTIONS IMPOSED ON THE 
PHrLIPPINE CHARITY SWEEPSTAKES OJ/FleE (peSO), MODlFYING FOR THR 
PURPOSE SEC.U (a) OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7835 
Be it enru.:ted by the Senate and the House of Representatives 0./ the Philippines in Congress 
assembled: 
1 
SECTION 1. Stlltement of Policy. - It IS hereby declared the policy of the State to 
2 
guarantee that the Charity Fund of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) shall 
3 
achieve its maximum potential to better serve its intended beneficiaries. 
4 
5 
SECTION 2. Abolition of Regulllr Malltiatory Contributions of PGS'O. -
The 
6 
mandatory contribution of PCSO as found in Sec. 11 (a) of R.A 7835 or "The Comprehensive 
7 
and Integrated Shelter Financing Act of 1994" described specifically as "Ten percent (10%) of 
8 
the mandatory annual contributions by Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office to the chanty fund 
9 
as provided for in Section 6 of R. A. No. 1169 shall be chalUleled to socialized and low-cost 
10 
housing" is hereinafter abolished. 
11 
SECTION 3. SECTION 20. Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days 
12 
after its corrtplete publication in the Official Gazette or in at least two (2) national newspapers of 
13 
general circfdation. 
Approved,
, 
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Second Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S.B. No. 3018 
'11 
NOV 16 
A11 :25 
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Section 16, Article 111 of our Constitution gives each person the right to a 
speedy trial, it provides that: "All persons shall have the right to a speedy disposition 
of their cases before all judicial, quasi-judicial, or administrative bodies." 
The Judiciary Reorganization Act of 1980 (BP 129) allotted the corresponding 
number of courts per judicial region based on the exigencies existing at that time. 
Twenty seven years have passed since the effectivity of BP 129. 
Because of the increase in our population and the increase in the volume of cases 
filed, our court dockets have been clogged and this has resulted in the delay in the 
resolution of cases. 
In order to improve the disposition and administration of justice and to ensure 
the right to a speedy trial, the number of courts must necessarily be increased. 
In view of the foregoing provisions, the approval of this bill is earnestly 
recommended. 
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 


FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Second Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S.B.No. 3018 
'11 
NOV 16 All :25 
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 
AN ACT 
CREATING AN ADDITIONAL BRANCH OF THE REGIONAL TRIAL COURT IN 
THE TWELFTH JUDICIAL REGION TO BE STATIONED AT THE CITY OF 
KIDAPAWAN, PROVINCE OF NORTH COTABATO, FURTHER AMENDING FOR 
THE PURPOSE BATAS PAMBANSA BILANG 129, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS 
"THE JUDICIARY REORGANIZATION ACT OF 1980," AS AMENDED, AND 
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
assembled: 
1 
SECTION 1. One (1) additional Regional Trial Court branch for Kidapawan City, 
2 
North Cotabato, with seat thereat, is hereby created in the Twelfth Judicial Region. 
3 
4 
SECTION 2. The Supreme Court shall assign the respective branch number for 
5 
the newly created branch. 
6 
7 
SECTION 3. The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, in coordination with the 
8 
Secretary of the Department of Justice, shall immediately include in the Court's 
9 
program the implementation of this Act. 
The funding therefor shall likewise be 
10 
included in the annual General Appropriations Act. 
11 
12 
SECTION 4. Section 14 (m) of Batas Pambansa Bilang 129, otherwise known as 
13 
"The Judiciary Reorganization Act of 1980," as amended, as well as other provisions 
14 
that may be inconsistent herewith, is hereby deemed repealed, modified and! or further 
15 
amended. 
16 
17 
SECTION 5. Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after 
18 
completion of its publication in the Official Gazette or two (2) newspapers of general 
19 
circulation. 
20 
21 
Approved, 
22
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Second Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S.B. No. 3025 
'11 
NOV 16 m1 :39 
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G: ESCUDERO 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Section 16, Article 111 of our Constitution gives each person the right to a 
speedy trial, it provides that: "All persons shall have the right to a speedy disposition 
of their cases before all judicial, quasi-judicial, or administrative bodies." 
The Judiciary Reorganization Act of 1980 (BP 129) allotted the corresponding 
number of courts per judicial region based on the exigencies existing at that time. 
Twenty seven years have passed since the effectivity of BP 129. 
Because of the increase in our population and the increase in the volume of cases 
filed, our court dockets have been clogged and this has resulted in the delay in the 
resolution of cases. 
In order to improve the disposition and administration of justice and to ensure 
the right to a speedy trial, the number of courts must necessarily be increased. 
In view of the foregoing provisions, the approval of this bill is earnestly 
recommended. 
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 


FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Second Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S.B. No. 3025 
'11 
NOV 16 
1\11 :39 
RECEhED BY#-
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 
AN ACT 
CREATING FOUR ADDITIONAL BRANCHES OF THE REGIONAL TRIAL 
COURT IN THE ELEVENTH JUDICIAL REGION TO BE STATIONED AT THE 
MUNICIPALITY OF NABUNTURAN, PROVINCE OF COMPOSTELA V ALLEY, 
FURTHER AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE BATAS PAMBANSA BILANG 129, 
OTHERWISE KNOWN AS "THE JUDICIARY REORGANIZATION ACT OF 1980," 
AS AMENDED, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
assembled: 
1 
SECTION 1. Four (4) additional Regional Trial Court branches for Nabunturan, 
2 
Compostela Valley, with seats thereat, are hereby created in the Eleventh Judicial 
3 
Region. 
4 
5 
SECTION 2. The Supreme Court shall assign the respective branch numbers for 
6 
the newly created branches. 
7 
8 
SECTION 3. The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, in coordination with the 
9 
Secretary of the Department of Justice, shall immediately include in the Court's 
10 
program the implementation of this Act. 
The funding therefor shall likewise be 
11 
included in the annual General Appropriations Act. 
12 
13 
SECTION 4. Section 14 (1) of Batas Pambansa Bilang 129, otherwise known as 
14 
"The Judiciary Reorganization Act of 1980," as amended, as well as other provisions 
15 
that may be inconsistent herewith, is hereby deemed repealed, modified and/ or further 
16 
amended. 
17 
18 
SECTION 5. Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after 
19 
completion of its publication in the Official Gazette or two (2) newspapers of general 
20 
circulation. 
21 
22 
Approved, 
23
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC) 
, ',I '1 
OF THE PHILIPINES 
) 
Third Regular Session 
) 
o 
~ , 
• 
'-'J I 
",'-1' 
' 
,_L 
SENATE 
S.B. NO.-1) 2 76' 
Introduced by Senator Legarda 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
In October 20, 2010, the United Nations General Assembly (UN GA) proclaimed the 
first week of February of every year as the "World Interfaith Harmony Week 
between all religions, faiths and beliefs," through resolution A/RES/65/5. 
The rationale behind this UN resolution, that of the need to find mutual 
understanding among people of different faiths and belief systems, finds resonance 
in the Philippines where religious differences have hindered nation building and the 
promotion of peace. 
In light of the vast diversity of faiths and belief systems in the country, it is in the 
best interests of the Filipino people to promote civil and non-violent interreligious 
and intercultural dialogues. These dialogues will empower our democratic ideals 
and engender an environment conducive to the prosperity of all. 
This bill, as it concurs with the resolution of the UN GA, seeks to promote 
cooperation and genuine understanding among all Filipinos, in order to establish a 
country of empathy and a culture of peace. 
In view of the foregoing considerations, approval of this bill is earnestly sought. 
~- ~-~~-.-.. ~-~~:~:~=:~~ . ~:~-=~:-:> 
LOREN:LEGARDA 
Senator 


FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC) 
OF THE PHILIPINES 
) 
Third Regular Session 
) 
SENATE 
'f9 '" 6 
SBNO 
~"I"4'( 
.. 
. 
Introduced by Senator Legarda 
AN ACT 
'-'I 
C' 
DECLARING THE FIRST WEEK OF FEBRUARY OF EVERY YEAR AS "WORLD 
INTERFAITH 
HARMONY WEEK" IN 
THE ENTIRE COUNTRY AND 
MANDATING ITS OBSERVANCE BY THE DIFFERENT GOVERNMENT 
AGENCIES 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. The first week of February of every year is declared as "World 
Interfaith Harmony Week" in the entire country. All government agencies and 
instrumentalities, including government-owned and -controlled corporations as 
well as local government units, are hereby mandated to carry out the observance of 
activities designed to advance the message of interfaith harmony and goodwill in 
accordance with religious traditions and practices. 
SEC. 2. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in the 
Official Gazette or in two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
Third Re,Jular Session 
) 
I 
SENATE 
S.B. No. 
:3 3 4 9 
Introduced by Senatol' TEOmSTO "TG" GUINGONA III 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (peSO) is considered the "principal 
government agency for raising and providing funds for health programs, medical assistance and 
services, and charities of national character"? The heart and soul of the PCSO is its charitable 
pursuit 
The PCSO Chalter allocates 30% of its net receipts to the Charity Fund. As a result of 
regular mandatory contributions imposed upon the PCSO by virtue of several laws and executive 
orders, the Charity Fund is greatly diminished. An overview of these decrees will reveal that 
most of the intended recipients, be it a government agency, or the implementation of a 
government program, does not in any way pertain to health or medical concerns. These 
mandatOlY contrihutions should therefore be discontinued to increased and thereby enhance 
PCSO's Charity Fund. 
To emphasize, the heart and soul of peso is its charitable pursuit. If we set aside nmds 
for extraneOllS mal1datory contributions prior to allocating funds for charity, then this will negate 
the veiY existence of PCSO. 
j'CSO's mandatory contribution pw:wtant to R.A. Y 165 or the "Comprehensive 
Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002" should therefore be abolished. 
In view of the foregoing, the immediate enactment of this measure is earnestly sought 
T " 
7 Sec. 1, PCSO Charter, RA 1169. 
,./ 
/' 
"TG" GUINGONA III 
Senator 


FiFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPlJBLlC OF THE PHlLIPPINES ) 
THIRD REGULAR SESSION 
) 
SENATE 
S B. No. 
iL119 
',' i' 
Cb: .. 
Introduced by SenatOl' TEOFISTO "TG" GUINGONA HI 
AN ACT 
ABOLISHING REGULAR MANDATORY CONTRIBUTiONS IMPOSED ON THE 
PlHLIPPINE CHARITY SWEEPSTAKES OFFICE (PCSO), MODIFYING FOR TH.E 
PURPOSE SEC. 87 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9165 
He it enacted by the Senate and the House Of Rep resenta lives Clfthe Philzppines il1 COllgress 
assel/lbled: 
1 
SECTION 1. Statement (~f Policy. - It IS hereby declared the policy of the State to 
2 
guarantee that the Charity Fund of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) shall 
3 
achieve its maximum potentIal to better serve its intended beneficimies. 
4 
5 
SECTION 2. Abolition of Regular MandlltOlY Gmtributions of pC'so. ~ The 
6 
mandatory contribution of PCSO as found in Sec. 87 of RA 9165 or the "ComprehensIve 
7 
Dangerous Dmgs Act of 2002" described specifically as "Ten percent (10%) of all unclaimed 
8 
and forfeited sweepstakes and lotto prizes but not less than twelve million pesos 
9 
(P12,OOO,OOO.OO) per year from the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (pCSO)" is 
10 
hereinafter abolished. 
11 
SE(!TION 3. SECTION 20. EfJectivi(v. ~ This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days 
12 
after its complete publication in the Official Gazette or in at least two (2) national newspapers of 
13 
general circltlation. 
Approved,
P'" 
I 
' 
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Second Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S.B. No. 3013 
·11 
NOV 16 All:1 8 
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Section 16, Article 111 of our Constitution gives each person the right to a 
speedy trial, it provides that: "All persons shall have the right to a speedy disposition 
of their cases before all judicial, quasi-judicial, or administrative bodies." 
The Judiciary Reorganization Act of 1980 (BP 129) allotted the corresponding 
number of courts per judicial region based on the exigencies existing at that time. 
Twenty seven years have passed since the effectivity of BP 129. 
Because of the increase in our population and the increase in the volume of cases 
filed, our court dockets have been clogged and this has resulted in the delay in the 
. resolution of cases. 
In order to improve the disposition and administration of justice and to ensure 
the right to a speedy trial, the number of courts must necessarily be increased. 
In view of the foregoing provisions, the approval of this bill is earnestly 
recommended. 
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 


FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Second Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S.B.No. $013 
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 
AN ACT 
CREATING 
TWENTY-TWO 
ADDITIONAL 
BRANCHES 
OF 
THE 
METROPOLITAN TRIAL COURT IN THE NATIONAL CAPITAL JUDICIAL 
REGION TO BE STATIONED AT THE CITY OF QUEZON, FURTHER AMENDING 
FOR THE PURPOSE BATAS PAMBANSA BILANG 129, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS 
"THE JUDICIARY REORGANIZATION ACT OF 1980," AS AMENDED, AND 
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
assembled: 
1 
SECTION 1. Twenty-two (22) additional Metropolitan Trial Court branches for 
2 
Quezon City, with seats thereat, are hereby created in the National Capital Judicial 
3 
Region. 
4 
5 
SECTION 2. The Supreme Court shall assign the respective branch numbers for 
6 
the newly created branches. 
7 
8 
SECTION 3. The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, in coordination with the 
9 
Secretary of the Department of Justice, shall immediately include in the Court's 
10 
program the implementation of this Act. 
The funding therefor shall likewise be 
11 
included in the annual General Appropriations Act. 
12 
13 
SECTION 4. Section 27 of Batas Pambansa Bilang 129, otherwise known as "The 
14 
Judiciary Reorganization Act of 1980," as amended, as well as other provisions that may 
15 
be inconsistent herewith, is hereby deemed repealed, modified and/ or further 
16 
amended. 
17 
18 
SECTION 5. Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after 
19 
completion of its publication in the Official Gazette or two (2) newspapers of general 
20 
circulation. 
21 
22 
Approved, 
23
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
, Third Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S,B, Non ,S '7 4 
:' [' l' 
, 
<. 
I 
I r 
Introduced by Senator TEOFISTO "TG" GUINGONA III 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Freedom of Expression is one of the most fundamental and cherished 
freedoms in a democratic sOciety. No less than the Bill of Rights, as enshrined in the 
1987 Philippine Constitution, guarantees that "No law shall be passed abridging the 
freedom of speech, of expression, or of the press, or the right of the people peaceably to 
assembl1e and petition the government for redress of grievances." This is further 
reinforced by Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, of 
which the Philippines is a state party: 
1. Everyone shall have the right to hold 
opinions without interference. 
2. Everyone shall have the right to freedom of 
expression; this right shall include freedom to 
seek, receive and impart information and 
ideas of all kinds, regardless of frontiers, 
either orally, in writing or in print, in the 
form of art, or through any other media of his 
choice. 
3. The exercise of the rights provided for in 
paragraph 2 of this article carries with it 
special duties and responsibilities. It may 
therefore be subject to certain restrictions, 
but these sball only be such as are provided 
by law and are necessary: 
(a) For respect of the rights or reputations of 
others; 
(b) For the protection of national security or 
of public order ( ordre public), or of public 
health or morals. 
Pagelof3 


This bill proposes to remove imprisonment as a penalty for libel because the 
threat of jail time sends a sufficient chilling effect on the freedom of expression. A 
democratic and free country should promote and protect the rights of its people to 
express themselves in ways that are both free and responsible. 
In view of the foregoing, the passage of this bill is earnestl 
E1:Sf'~'fQV'TG" GUiNGONA III 
Page2of3 


FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Third Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S.B. No. 3374 
Introduced by Senator TEOFISTO "TG" GUINGONA III 
AN ACT DECRIMINALIZING LIBEL, REPEALING FOR THIS 
PURPOSE ARTICLE 355 OF THE REVISED PENAL CODE, 
AS AMENDED, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE REVISED 
PENAL CODE 
~e it enacted in the Senate and the House of Representatives of the 
Philippines in Congress assembled: 
I 
1 
SECTION 1. Libel by means of writing or similar means as defined in Article 
2 
355 of the Revised Penal Code is hereby decriminalized. 
3 
4 
5 
SECTION 2. Repealing Clause. - Article 355 of the Revised Penal Code, as 
6 
amended, is hereby repealed. 
7 
8 
9 
SECTION 3. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days 
10 
after its publication in the Official Gazette or in at least two (2) newspapers 
11 
of general circulation. 
12 
Approved, 
Page30f3
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Second Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S.B.No. 3036 
r! 
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
·11 
NOV 16 All:57 
Section 16, Article 111 of our Constitution gives each person the right to a 
speedy trial, it provides that: "All persons shall have the right to a speedy disposition 
of their cases before all judicial, quasi-judicial, or administrative bodies." 
The Judiciary Reorganization Act of 1980 (BP 129) allotted the corresponding 
number of courts per judicial region based on the exigencies existing at that time. 
Twenty seven years have passed since the effectivity of BP 129. 
Because of the increase in our population and the increase in the volume of cases 
filed, our court dockets have been clogged and this has resulted in the delay in the 
resolution of cases. 
In order to improve the disposition and administration of justice and to ensure 
the right to a speedy trial, the number of courts must necessarily be increased. 
In view of the foregoing provisions, the approval of this bill is earnestly 
recommended. 
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 


FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Second Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S.B.No. 3036 
'11 
NOV 16 All :57 
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 
AN ACT 
CREATING SIX ADDITIONAL BRANCHES OF THE MUNICIPAL TRIAL COURT 
IN CITIES AND AN ADDITIONAL BRANCH OF THE REGIONAL TRIAL COURT 
IN THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL REGION TO BE STATIONED AT THE CITY OF 
CEBU, PROVINCE OF CEBU, FURTHER AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE BATAS 
PAMBANSA BILANG 129, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS "THE JUDICIARY 
REORGANIZATION ACT OF 1980," AS AMENDED, AND APPROPRIATING 
FUNDS THEREFOR 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
assembled: 
1 
SECTION 1. Six (6) additional Municipal Trial Court in Cities branches and One 
2 
(1) additional Regional Trial Court branch for Cebu City, Cebu in the Seventh Judicial 
3 
Region, with seats thereat, are hereby created. 
4 
5 
SECTION 2. The Supreme Court shall assign the respective branch numbers for 
6 
the newly created branches. 
7 
8 
SECTION 3. The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, in coordination with the 
9 
Secretary of the Department of Justice, shall immediately include in the Court's 
10 
program the implementation of this Act. 
The funding therefor shall likewise be 
II 
included in the annual General Appropriations Act. 
12 
13 
SECTION 4. Sections 14 (h) and 29 of Batas Pambansa Bilang 129, otherwise 
14 
known as "The Judiciary Reorganization Act of 1980," as amended, as well as other 
15 
provisions that may be inconsistent herewith, is hereby deemed repealed, modified 
16 
and/ or further amended. 
17 
18 
SECTION 5. Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after 
19 
completion of its publication in the Official Gazette or two (2) newspapers of general 
20 
circulation. 
21 
22 
Approved, 
23
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Second Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S.B. No. 303l5, 
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
.;ii' .. !mh· 
i;?ifI(2 of !llr..~~9\~\tilli'U 
'11 
IjOV 16 
A11 :56 
Section 16, Article 111 of our Constitution gives each person the right to a 
speedy trial, it provides that: "All persons shall have the right to a speedy disposition 
of their cases before all judicial, quasi-judicial, or administrative bodies." 
The Judiciary Reorganization Act of 1980 (BP 129) allotted the corresponding 
number of courts per judicial region based on the exigencies existing at that time. 
Twenty seven years have passed since the effectivity of BP 129. 
Because of the increase in our population and the increase in the volume of cases 
filed, our court dockets have been clogged and this has resulted in the delay in the 
resolution of cases. 
In order to improve the disposition and administration of justice and to ensure 
the right to a speedy trial, the number of courts must necessarily be increased. 
In view of the foregoing provisions, the approval of this bill is earnestly 
recommended. 
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 


FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Second Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S.B. No. 3035 
'11 
NOV 16 All:56 
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 
AN ACT 
CREATING AN ADDITIONAL BRANCH OF THE MUNICIPAL TRIAL COURT IN 
CITIES AND SEVEN ADDITIONAL BRANCHES OF THE REGIONAL TRIAL 
COURT IN THE SEVENTH JUDICIAL REGION TO BE STATIONED AT THE CITY 
OF LAPU-LAPU, PROVINCE OF CEBU, FURTHER AMENDING FOR THE 
PURPOSE BATAS PAMBANSA BILANG 129, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS "THE 
JUDICIARY REORGANIZATION 
ACT OF 1980/' AS 
AMENDED, 
AND 
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
assembled: 
SECTION 1. One (1) additional Municipal Trial Court in Cities branch and 
2 
Seven (7) additional Regional Trial Court branches for Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu in the 
3 
Seventh Judicial Region, with seats thereat, are hereby created 
4 
5 
SECTION 2. The Supreme Court shall assign the respective branch numbers for 
6 
the newly created branches. 
7 
8 
SECTION 3. The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, in coordination with the 
9 
Secretary of the Department of Justice, shall immediately include in the Court's 
10 
program the implementation of this Act. 
The funding therefor shall likewise be 
11 
included in the annual General Appropriations Act. 
12 
13 
SECTION 4. Sections 14 (h) and 29 of Batas Pambansa Bilang 129, otherwise 
14 
known as "The Judiciary Reorganization Act of 1980," as amended, as well as other 
15 
provisions that may be inconsistent herewith, is hereby deemed repealed, modified 
16 
and/or further amended. 
17 
18 
SECTION 5. Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after 
19 
completion of its publication in the Official Gazette or two (2) newspapers of general 
20 
circulation. 
21 
22 
Approved, 
23
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Second Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S.B. No, 3044 
'11 
NOV 16 P 1 :22 
1,; , 
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Section 16, Article 111 of our Constitution gives each person the right to a 
speedy trial, it provides that: "All persons shall have the right to a speedy disposition 
of their cases before all judicial, quasi-judicial, or administrative bodies." 
The Judiciary Reorganization Act of 1980 (BP 129) allotted the corresponding 
number of courts per judicial region based on the exigencies existing at that time. 
Twenty seven years have passed since the effectivity of BP 129. 
Because of the increase in our population and the increase in the volume of cases 
filed, our court dockets have been clogged and this has resulted in the delay in the 
resolution of cases. 
In order to improve the disposition and administration of justice and to ensure 
the right to a speedy trial, the number of courts must necessarily be increased. 
In view of the foregoing provisions, the approval of this bill is earnestly 
recommended. 
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 


FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Second Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S.B. No. 3044 
"11 
NOV 16 P 1 :22 
c,"'n ¥\": ~ 
""""'y-
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 
AN ACT 
CREATING AN ADDITIONAL BRANCH OF THE REGIONAL TRIAL COURT IN 
THE FOURTH JUDICIAL REGION TO BE STATIONED AT THE MUNICIPALITY 
OF BlNANGONAN, PROVINCE OF RIZAL, FURTHER AMENDING FOR THE 
PURPOSE BATAS PAMBANSA BILANG 129, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS "THE 
JUDICIARY REORGANIZATION ACT 
OF 1980," 
AS 
AMENDED, AND 
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
assembled: 
1 
SECTION 1. One (1) additional Regional Trial Court branch for Binangonan, 
2 
Rizal, with seat thereat, is hereby created in the Fourth Judicial Region, 
3 
4 
SECTION 2. The Supreme Court shall assign the respective branch number for 
5 
the newly created branch. 
6 
7 
SECTION 3. The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, in coordination with the 
8 
Secretary of the Department of Justice, shall immediately include in the Court's 
9 
program the implementation of this Act. 
The funding therefor shall likewise be 
10 
included in the annual General Appropriations Act. 
11 
12 
SECTION 4. Section 14 (e) of Batas Pambansa Bilang 129, otherwise known as 
13 
"The Judiciary Reorganization Act of 1980," as amended, as well as other provisions 
14 
that may be inconsistent herewith, is hereby deemed repealed, modified and! or further 
15 
amended. 
16 
17 
SECTION 5. Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after 
18 
completion of its publication in the Official Gazette or two (2) newspapers of general 
19 
circulation. 
20 
21 
Approved, 
22
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Second Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S.B. No. 3016 
'11 
NOV 16 
A11 :21 
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Section 16, Article 111 of our Constitution gives each person the right to a 
speedy trial, it provides that: "All persons shall have the right to a speedy disposition 
of their cases before all judicial, quasi-judicial, or administrative bodies." 
The Judiciary Reorganization Act of 1980 (BP 129) allotted the corresponding 
number of courts per judicial region based on the exigencies existing at that time. 
Twenty seven years have passed since the effectivity of BP 129. 
Because of the increase in our population and the increase in the volume of cases 
filed, our court dockets have been clogged and this has resulted in the delay in the 
resolution of cases. 
In order to improve the disposition and administration of justice and to ensure 
the right to a speedy trial, the number of courts must necessarily be increased. 
In view of the foregoing provisions, the approval of this bill is earnestly 
recommended. 
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 


FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Second Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S.B.No. 3016 
'11 
NOV 16 fill :21 
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 
AN ACT 
CREATING FOUR ADDITIONAL BRANCHES OF THE METROPOLITAN TRIAL 
COURT IN THE NATIONAL CAPITAL JUDICIAL REGION TO BE STATIONED 
AT THE CITY OF LAS PIl'JAS, FURTHER AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE 
BATAS PAMBANSA BILANG 129, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS "THE JUDICIARY 
REORGANIZATION ACT OF 1980," AS AMENDED, AND APPROPRIATING 
FUNDS THEREFOR 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
assembled: 
1 
SECTION 1. Four (4) additional Metropolitan Trial Court branches for Las Pifias 
2 
City, with seats thereat, are hereby created in the National Capital Judicial Region. 
3 
4 
SECTION 2. The Supreme Court shall assign the respective branch numbers for 
5 
the newly created branches. 
6 
7 
SECTION 3. The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, in coordination with the 
8 
Secretary of the Department of Justice, shall immediately include in the Court's 
9 
program the implementation of this Act. 
The funding therefor shall likewise be 
10 
included in the annual General Appropriations Act. 
11 
12 
SECTION 4. Section 27 of Batas Pambansa Bilang 129, otherwise known as "The 
13 
Judiciary Reorganization Act of 1980," as amended, as well as other provisions that may 
14 
be inconsistent herewith, is hereby deemed repealed, modified and/ or further 
15 
amended. 
16 
17 
SECTION 5. Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after 
18 
completion of its publication in the Official Gazette or two (2) newspapers of general 
19 
circulation. 
20 
21 
Approved, 
22
r;:/ t. :,.>,-';ij 
;~ ('i17 i, 1 ~c' 
\,'-,'1,-,: -) tl~!h;f "~I ti:!' :;, j" d::H\\ 
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS 
) 
CONGRESS OF THE PHILIPPINES ) 
Second Regular Session 
) 
Senate Bill No. 3194 
Introduced by Senator Edgardo J. Angara 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
It~Yl 0 
') t::) '(' 6 
. 
" 
\.tv. (1 
d.\ __ _ 
This bill seeks to convert the Dilasag-Dinapigue Provincial Road in the Municipality of Dilasag, 
Province of Aurora into a national road. 
The Dilasag-Dinapigue Provincial Road is one of the key access roads in the Province of Aurora. 
It is utilized by tourists and allows the transfer of various equipment and goods to the province. 
Its improvement and maintenance will greatly contribute to commerce and tourism in the area, 
by facilitating greater and smoother access to the municipalities it connects. 
In view of the foregoing, the swift passage of this bill is earnestly sought. 
EDGARDO J. ANGARA 


• 
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS 
) 
CONGRESS OF THE PHILIPPINES ) 
Second Regular Session 
) 
Senate Bill No. 3194 
'12 
MY 10 :)5:16 
Introduced by Senator Edgardo J. Angara 
AN ACT CONVERTING THE DILASAG-DINAPIGUE PROVINCIAL ROAD IN 
THE 
PROVINCE 
OF 
AURORA 
INTO 
A 
NATIONAL 
ROAD, 
AND 
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
1 
SECTION 1. The Dilasag-Dinapigue provincial road in the municipality ofDiiasag in 
2 
Province of Aurora is hereby converted into a national road. 
3 
4 
SEC. 2. The Secretary of the Depmtment of Public Works and Highways shall 
5 
include in the Department's program the improvement, maintenance and repair of the 
6 
said road, the funding of which shall be included in the atillual General Appropriations 
7 
Act. 
8 
9 
SEC. 3. This Act shall take effect fifteen days after its publication in the Official 
10· 
Gazette and in at least two (2) newspaper of general circulation. 
11 
12 
13 
Approved, 
14 
15 
16 
1
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
Second Regular Session 
'1' 
NOV Z(l I)? :CO 
SENATE 
S.B.No. 
3076 
Introduced by Senator Francis G. Escudero 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
This bill originates from !louse Bill No. 4095, which was approved on Third 
Reading on 22 February 2011. 
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 


iti . 
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Second Regular Session 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S. B. No. 
3076 
Introduced by Senator Francis G. Escudero 
AN ACT 
'1 : 
~~!t" _;r" 
,~,~, I: ,I j "., ~ ~ 
;1;lh(f 1.1: !!:~, ','; i rbr!! 
NOV 28 f' 2 :01 
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 Nalional 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.ln 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,
) 
) 
) 
''li, "t 'l t ,', 
,-,/,,,,,"' t.-
\1, . r 
{0f1ue (If t!~e.54rrrrhrtt 
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Second Regular Session 
'11 
NOV 16 P12:02 
SENATE 
S.B.No. 3040 
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Section 16, Article 111 of our Constitution gives each person the right to a 
speedy trial. it provides that: "All persons shall have the right to a speedy disposition 
of their cases before all judicial, quasi-judicial. or administrative bodies." 
The Judiciary Reorganization Act of 1980 (BP 129) allotted the corresponding 
number of courts per judicial region based on the exigencies existing at that time. 
Twenty seven years have passed since the effectivity of BP 129. 
Because of the increase in our population and the increase in the volume of cases 
filed, our court dockets have been clogged and this has resulted in the delay in the 
resolution of cases. 
In order to improve the disposition and administration of justice and to ensure 
the right to a speedy trial, the number of courts must necessarily be increased. 
In view of the foregoing provisions, the approval of this bill is earnestly 
recommended. 
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 
I 
I 
I 
I 
I 
I 
I 
I 
I 


FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Second Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S. B. No. _::::.3-,('=--' -=4-",0 
J~etwh' 
(!}fhre 01 Hpa;i';r;,<,br1! 
'11 
I~OV 16 P\2 :02 
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 
AN ACT 
CREATING THREE ADDITIONAL BRANCHES OF THE REGIONAL TRIAL 
COURT IN THE FOURTH JUDICIAL REGION TO BE STATIONED AT THE CITY 
OF PUERTO PRINCESA, PROVINCE OF PALAWAN, FURTHER AMENDING FOR 
THE PURPOSE BATAS PAMBANSA BILANG 129, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS 
"THE JUDICIARY REORGANIZATION ACT OF 1980," AS AMENDED, AND 
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
assembled: 
1 
SECTION 1. Three (3) additional Regional Trial Court branches for Puerto 
2 
Princesa, Palawan, with seats thereat, are hereby created in the Fourth Judicial Region. 
3 
4 
SECTION 2. The Supreme Court shall assign the respective branch numbers for 
5 
the newly created branches. 
6 
7 
SECTION 3. The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, in coordination with the 
8 
Secretary of the Department of Justice, shall immediately include in the Court's 
9 
program the implementation of this Act. 
The funding therefor shall likewise be 
10 
included in the annual General Appropriations Act. 
11 
12 
SECTION 4. Section 14 (e) of Batas Pambansa Bilang 129, otherwise known as 
13 
"The Judiciary Reorganization Act of 1980," as amended, as well as other provisions 
14 
that may be inconsistent herewith, is hereby deemed repealed, modified and/ or further 
15 
amended. 
16 
17 
SECTION 5. Effeciivity. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after 
18 
completion of its publication in the Official Gazette or two (2) newspapers of general 
19 
circulation. 
20 
21 
Approved, 
22