bettergovph/raw-philippine-data huggingface dataset:
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC) 
First Regular Session 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
S E N A T E  
Introduced by Senator Flavier 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The practice of “insider trading” - when a person with privileged access to 
inside corporate information cashes in his access - - imposes an especially 
onerous burden for a developing country like ours. Generally, it has merited 
legislation on the ground that it is so unfair to other investors that government 
must step in. But for the Philippines, there is much more at stake than the 
fairnmess among investors: “insider trading” stunts the growth of the Philippine 
capital market and retards our efforts at national development. 
The bill addresses that overriding public concern by barring brokers of 
securities from positions of privileged access to corporate information. It ensures 
that the persons who stand to profit most from inside information are kept away 
from the direct sources of that information. To quote a learned expert, it “levels 
the trading floor” by reducing the “potential information disparities among brokers 
and investors.” 
This measure shall stamp out a rampant and blatant arrangement so 
conducive to insider trading. It will go a long way in ensuring the stability and 
efficiency of our capital market. 
Passage of this bill is strongly urged. 
. 
R 


THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC) 
First Regular Session 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
S E N A T E  
s. NO., 
I/ 
Introduced by Senator Flavier 
AN ACT 
DISQUALIFYING BROKERS, DEALERS AND SELLERS OF SECURITES 
FROM BECOMING DIRECTORS, TRUSTEES OR OFFICERS OF ANY 
PUBLICLY LISTED CORPORATION, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE 
SECTION 27 OF BATAS PAMBANSA BlLANG 68, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS 
THE CORPORATION CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the 
Philippines in Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Section 27 of Batas Pambansa Blg. 68, otherwise known as 
the Corporation Code of the Philippines is hereby amended by adding a new 
paragraph thereto and to read follows: 
SEC. 27. x x x 
(a) 
“FURTHERMORE, NO PERSON SHALL QUALIFY AS A 
DIRECTOR, TRUSTEE, OR OFFICER OF ANY PUBLICLY 
LISTED CORPORATION WHO IS ACTUALLY ENGAGED 
IN BUSINESS AS A BROKER, DEALER OR SELLER OF 
SECURITIES, THAT PERSON SHALL BE DISQUALIFIED 
REGARDLESS 
OF 
WHETHER 
OR 
NOT 
HE 
IS 
REGISTERED AS A BROKER, DEALER OR SELLER 
UNDER SECTION 79 OF THE REVISED SECURITIES ACT 
AND 
WITHOUT 
PREJUDICE TO 
HI§ 
LIABILITIES 
HEREUNDER IF HE FAILS TO REGISTER.” 


. 
, 
SEC. 2. All other laws, decrees, orders, or rules and regulations or parts 
thereof contrary to the provisions of this Act are hereby repealed or 
modified accordingly. 
SEC. 3. This Act shall take effect upon its approval. 
Aprroved,
'
b
.
 
. .1 
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF 
OF THE PHILIPPINE 
First Regular Session 
S E N A T E  
Introduced by Senator S. R. OsmeAa 111 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
In our quest for economic development, one of the requisite institutional 
infrastructures is a system of justice that can assure every citizen the protection 
of his property rights and the speedy administration of justice. 
One of the critical obstacles to the speedy administration of justice is the 
imbalance between the number of prosecutors and the number of regional and 
special trial courts in the country. 
This bill seeks to correct this imbalance by amending the provisions of the 
Administrative Code of 1987, and empowering the Department of Justice to 
maintain a one-to-one rate of prosecutors to courts. 
For justice and freedom, approval of this measure is earnestly requested 
ptuciz* 
SERGIO OSMENA 111 
Senator 


THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
First Regular Session 
. A  I 
) )  
b . 30 . i”$: :<,3 
’ 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
E 
T 
S. No. 
, -  
Introduced by Senator S. R. Osmeiia 111 
AN ACT 
TO 
STRENGTHEN 
THE 
NATIONAL 
PROSECUTION 
SERVICE 
BY 
COURTS AND SPECIAL CRIME COURTS, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE 
EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 292, THE ADMINISTRATIVE CODE OF 1987, AND 
FOR OTHER PURPOSES 
MAINTAINING A ONE-TO-ONE RATIO OF PROSECUTORS TO REGIONAL 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the 
Philippines in Congress Assembled: 
1 
SECTION 1. Title. - This Act shall be known as the “One-to-one Ratio 
2 
of Prosecutors to Courts Act of the Philippines.” 
3 
Sec. 2. Declaration of Policy. -- It is hereby declared the policy of the 
4 
State to maintain peace and order through the speedy and impartial 
5 
administration of crime justice and the promotion of efficiency, integrity and fair 
6 
workings of the pillars of the criminal justice system.. Towards the attainment of 
7 
this policy, it is also declared the policy of the State that the maintenance of a. 
8 
balance between the prosecution and courts in terms of number of prosecutors 
9 
and number of regional trial and special courts is desirable and necessary. 
I O  
Sec. 3. Program Framework. -- Section 3 of Chapter 1, Title Ill, Justice, 
1 I 
Book IV, “The Executive Branch” of Executive Order No. 292 is hereby amended 
12 
by adding another paragraph as follows: 
13 
(7) 
MAINTAIN THE RATIO OF PROSECUTORS TO REGIONAL TRIAL 
14 
COURTS AND SPECIAL COURTS AND SUCH OTHER COURTS 


1 
THAT MAY BE EST 
WED PURSUA T TO LAW ON A ONE- 
2 
TO-ONE RATIO; 
3 
(8) [(7)] Provide legal services to the national government and its 
4 
functionaries, including government-owned or controlled corporations 
5 
and their subsidiaries; and 
G 
7 
Sec. 4. Effectivity. -- This Act shall take effect ten ( I O )  days after 
(9) 
[(S)] Perform such other functions as may be provided by law.” 
8 
publication in at least one newspaper of general circulation. 
Appro ve d, 
’. . 
I
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
s. $0. 
INTRODUCED BY HON. MANUEL B. VILLAR, JR. 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
In a culture such as ours, pregnancy out of wedlock is still frowned at. Women 
who are in this situation are often stigmatized by society. 
As time passed by however, more and more unmarried pregnant women are 
willing to bear society's criticism and prejudices and seek employment to be able to 
support their child. Unfortunately, with the existing Labor Code, unmarried pregnant 
women are not accorded the same benefits as those who are married, or at the very 
least, the laws are not clear about the benefits they can avail of. 
This bill seeks to amend Article 133 of the Labor Code of the Philippines, since 
it has been construed by most employers that only pregnant married women may be 
granted maternity leave benefits. 
This measure does not necessarily encourage pregnancy out of wedlock, it 
instead emphasizes on ensuring the health of both mother and child without depriving 
the former the opportynity to work and earn a living for their future. 
In view of the foregoing, the passage of this bill is earnestly sought. 
MANUEL B. V LLAR, JR. 
1 


THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
First Regular Session 
’ REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
, 
SENATE 
S. No. 
INTRODUCED BY HON. MANUEL B. VILLAR, JR. 
AN ACT 
MANDATING MATERNITY LEAVE BENEFITS REGARDLESS OF MARITAL 
STATUS, AMENDING FOR THIS PURPOSE ARTICLE 133 OF PRESIDENTIAL 
PHILIPPINES 
I 
DECREE NO. 442, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE LABOR CODE OF THE 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines 
in Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Article 133 of presidential Decree No. 442, otherwise known as 
the Labor Code of the Philippines, is hereby amended to read as follows: 
“ART. 133. Maternity leave benefits. - (a) Every employer shall 
grant to any pregnant woman employee REGARDLESS OF MARITAL 
STATUS, who has rendered an aggregate service of at least six (6) 
months for the last twelve (12) months, maternity leave of at least 
two (2) weeks prior to the expected date of delivery and another four 
(4) weeks after normal delivery or abortion with full pay based on her 
regular or average weekly wages. The employer may require from any 
women employee applying for maternity leave the production of a 
medical certificate stating that delivery will probably take place 
within two (2) weeks. x x XI’ 
SECTION 2. Effectivity. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after the 
completion of its publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
1 
First Regular Session 
1 
Introduced by Senator Jinggoy EjercitcS' Estrada 
~
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
~
Graft and corruption is one of the most pervasive problem in the country today. 
Cases show that persons, particularly government officials, who may be held liable for 
graft or corruption under Republic Act No. 3019 (otherwise known Anti-Graft and 
Corrupt Practices Act) commit the same during the time of their incumbency or at a time 
when they still have "strong connections" in government. Usually, concerned citizens or 
the proper government agency only muster the courage to file a case or discover such 
irregularity after a change in government administration. Prior to the filing of a case, in- 
depth investigations or extensive evidence gathering are required to build an airtight 
case. However, by the time a case is about to be initiated against such erring 
government official,, the crime is about to prescribe. 
Section I 1  of R.A. 3019 provides that offenses punishable under said law shall 
prescribed in fifteen (15) years. This bill seeks to amend this provision by increasing the 
prescriptive period to thirty (30) years. With the passage of this bill, it is hoped that 
government scalawags would not be able to exculpate from their criminal liability just 
because of a technicality, ie. prescripfion offhe offense. 
In the light of the foregoing considerations, immediate passage of this bill is 
urgently requested. 


THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
.) 
* T  a ,I 
’ 311 fqj :I5 
l a , *  
d!,-! 
- 
First Regular Session 
1 
Introduced by Senator Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada 
AN ACT 
AMENDING SECTION 11 OF REPUBLIC ACT NUMBERED 3019, 
OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE “ANVGRAFT 
AND CORRUPT 
PRACTICES ACT”, BY INCREASING THE PRESCRIPTIVE PERIOD 
FOR ITS VIOLATION FROM FIFTEEN (15) YEARS TO THIRTY (30) 
YEARS AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES 
Be it enacted by the Senate of the Philippines and the House of Representative 
in Congress assembled: 
Sec. 1. Section I 1  Republic Act No. 301 9 (otherwise known as the Anti-Graft 
and Corrupt Practices Act), is hereby amended to read as follows: 
“Sec.. 1 I. 
Prescripfion of offenses. - All offenses punishable under his 
Act prescribe in [fifteen] THIRTY years.” 
Sec. 2. 
Repealing Clause. - All laws, decrees, ordinances, rules and 
regulations, executive or administrative orders, and other presidential issuance 
inconsistent with this Act, are hereby repealed, amended or modified. 
Sec. 3. 
Hfecfivity. - This Act shall take effect after (15) day following its 
publication in at least two (2) newspaper of general circulation. 
Approved,
5 
4 
. p 
F 
I 
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
1 
First Regular Session 
1 
Introduced by Senator JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
It is a matter of public knowledge that our housing program has not been 
adequate as would optimally address the issue of shelter for our growing population 
notwithstanding the incentives already allowed under existing lawk and rules and 
regulations. The first indication of this inadequacy is the sharp increase in the price of 
real states particularly those located in heavily populated urban areas like Metro Manila. 
The economic adjustments have put the bare costs of purchasing a piece of land and 
building a house beyond the reach of many. 
On top of these, calamities have visited our couniry with the end effect of 
depriving those who have houses and dwelling places. 
In view of the foregoing, it has become necessary for government to grant more 
incentives to developers, owners and builders of residential buildings and housing 
projects. This bill proposes to exempt them from the payment of real state taxes while 
the construction is in progress up to the time of the completion of said residential 
buildings and housing projects. The probable loss of revenues arising from the approval 
of his bill is more than compensated by the encouragement it gives to those who would 
contribute to the availability of more dwelling places. 
EJERCITO ESTRADA 
Senator 


SENATE 
S.B. NO. 
~ 
PROVID 
I d troduced by Senator JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
NG TAX INCENTIVES TO DEVELOPERS AND BUILDERS OF 
the government. 
Be if ena fed by the Senafe and fhe House of Represenfafives of the Philippines 
in fhe Congress assembled: 
t 
3. Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its 
(2) newspapers of general circulation.
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUl3LIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
. ... 
. ,  
&No. 
617 
.. 
INTRODUCED BY HON. MANUEL B. VELAR JR. 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Milk consumers are improperly informed about the contents of the milk they acquire 
from the market. There is also no uniform standards as to the contents of skim milk, low fat milk 
and milk beverage in final package. 
The Constitution, Article XI, Section 15 provides that "The State shall protect and 
promote the right to health of the people and instill health consciousness among them. In 
accordance with the constitutional mandate this bill provide for the proper labeling of milk 
products indicating distinctly in its package the non-fat and protein content of milk, and sets 
standards on the contents of milk solids that are not fat in the classification of skim milk, low fat 
milk and milk as beverage. With this innovation it is expected that the consuming public will be 
properly informed about the nutritional contents and value of the milk they consume. The quality 
of milk likewise be upgraded in order to conform with proper nutritional standards. 


THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
‘04 JliM 30 P8 :42 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
I 
:.: : . 0 
W’.’ 
S. No. 
617 
’ . 
, . 
I .I 
INTRODUCED BY HON. MANUEL B. VILLAR JR. 
AN ACT ESTABLISHING STANDARDS FOR THE IDENTITY OF MILK AND 
REQUIRING THE LABELING THEREOF 
Be it enacted by the Senate and Hduse of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
assembled: 
Section 1. Short Title. This Act may be cited as the” Milk Nutrition and Labeling Act.” 
Section 2. Milk labeling the following shall apply in establishing standards of identity for 
milk. 
(a) Fluid milk shall indicate on its label such portion of milk which is non-fat. 
(b) 
(1) Skim milk that is in final package form for beverage use shall contain not less 
than 0 percent of milk solids that are non-fat. 
(2) Low fat milk that is in final package form for beverage use shall contain not 
less than 10 percent of milk solids ‘that are non-fat. 
(3) Milk that is in final package form for beverage use shall contain not less than 
87 percent of milk solids that are non-fat. 
(c) The label on any milk any product shall prominently display the nutritional contents 
and value of the milk (Le. protein) 
Section 3. Separability Clause. If any provision, or part hereof is held invalid or 
unconstitutional, the remainder of the law or the provision not otherwise affected shall remain 
valid and subsisting. 


Section 4. Repealing Clause. Any law, presidential decree or issuance, executive order, 
letter of instruction, administrative order, mle or regulation contrary to or inconsistent with the 
provisions of this Act is hereby repealed, modified, or amended accordingly. 
Section 5. Effectivity Date. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication 
in at least two (2) newspaper of general circulation. 
Approved,
-a,,i 
3 
1 '117 p 
:n,7 
\il 
L -1 ' -'b 
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
INTRODUCED BY HON. MANUEL B. VILLAR. JR. 
~ 
~ 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Day after day, as more and more young people waste away in the country's slums, streets 
and sweatshops, the republic suffers from an intellectual and moral hemorrhage. The lack 
of educational opportunity for young people is truly one of the worst tragedies that we 
witness. 
This measure seeks to draw our attention to the ever-pressing need for the availability of 
good education. This measure, along with other complementing bills will hopefully turn the 
tide and give the impoverished youth some hope for the future. Thus, all educational 
institutions will be required to grant full tuition scholarships to at least 10% of its college 
student population. 
In view of the foregoing, approval of this bill is earnestly sought. 
MANUEL B. VI LAR, JR. . 
f. 


THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
f 
I *. 
1
2
 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
, "I- - 
t 
J 
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t m 3 ,  
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^--e-"%--- 
P* 
L,_ 
INTRODUCED BY HON. MANUEL B. VILLAR, J R . .  
AN ACT 
REQUIRING ALL COLLEGES AND UWERSITIES TO PROVIDE COLLEGE 
SCHOLARSHIP GRANT TO AT LEAST TEN PERCENT (1 0%) OF THEIR 
STUDENT POPULATION WHO h
E
 
POOR BUT DESERVING 
STUDENTS, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Short Title - This Act shall be known as "The Scholarship Program 
for Poor but Deserving Students Act." 
SECTION 2. Declaration of Policy - The State shall give priority to education, 
protect and promote the right of all citizens to qualify education at all levels and shall take 
appropriate steps to make such education accessible to all. Towards this end, there shall be 
provided scholarship grants to poor but deserving Filipino students. 
SECTION 3. Nature and Extent of Scholarship Grants - College Scholarship 
grants are hereby extended in the form of free tuition fee to at least ten percent (10%) of the 
student population of all colleges and universities who are poor but deserving students. 
SECTION 4. Implementing Rules and Regulations - The Secretary of the 
Department of Education, Culture and Sports shall issue the necessary rules and regulations 
for the speedy and effective implementation of this scholarship program. 
SECTION 5. Effectivity - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days from its 
complete publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
S. No. 
788 
-~ 
INTRODUCED BY HON. MANUEL B. VILLAR, JR. 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
All records on the deliberation of the Optical Media Act would reveal that the 
intention of the legislators in crafting the law was to prevent the proliferation of 
pirated optical media by regulating the industry at the manufacturing, replication, 
exportation and importation levels. 
It was never the intention of the law to include 
sale and distribution of optical media as among the activities necessitating licensing 
and registration. However, since the comma between the words optical media and 
manufacturing equipment was not removed in Section 13 (a), it appeared as if even 
sale and distribution of optical media are among the regulated activities. Paragraphs 
(a) & (b) of the law deal with manufacturing equipment parts and accessories, while it 
is paragraph (c) which deals with optical media itself. 
Thus, to correct this typographical error and so as to conform with the intents of 
the law, Section 13 (a) should accordingly be amended by removing the comma 
between the words “optical media” and “manufacturing equipment.” 
Hence, urgent passage of this bill is strongly recommended. 


THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
S. No. 
INTRODUCED BY HON. MANUEL B. VILLAR, JR. 
AN ACT 
AMENDING SECTION 13 PARAGRAPH (A) OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9239, 
OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE "OPTICAL MEDIA ACT OF 2003", 
AND FOR OTHER 
PURPOSES 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
assembled: 
SECTION 1. Section 13, paragraph (a) of RA 9239 is hereby amended to read 
as follows: 
Sec. 13. Licensing and Registration - Any person, establishment, or 
entity shall, prior to engaging in one or more of the businesses or 
activities enumerated hereunder, register with, and secure the 
appropriate licenses from the OMB: 
(a) Importation, exportation, acquisition, sale or distribution of 
optical media [ ,] manufacturing equipment, parts and accessories 
and manufacturing materials used or intended for use in the 
mastering, manufacture or replication of optical media; 
x
x
x
 
SECTION 2. All laws, decrees, orders, rules and regulations, ordinances or 
parts thereof inconsistent with this Act are hereby repealed or modified accordingly, 
SECTION '3. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its complete 
publication in at least two newspapers of general circulation. 
N 
Approved,
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
INTRODUCED BY HQN. MANUEL B. VILLAR, JR. 
EXPLANATORY NOT 
The fundamental law of the land imposes upon the State an obligation to care for our elderly. 
With the buying power of the peso constantly being weakened, our elderly who almost always 
depend on their pension find it very difficult to live comfortable lives. Furthermore, in their 
advanced age, the chance of being employed is very slim. It is for such reason that this bill seeks 
to provide for the automatic adjustment of the basic monthly pension of retired personnel covered 
by the GSIS and the SSS to the prevailing cost of living index. 
In view of the foregoing, passage of this bill is strongly urged. 


THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
,- , 
S. No. 
INTRODUCED BY HON. MANUEL B. VILLAR. JR. 
AN ACT 
PROVIDING FOR AUTOMATIC ADJUSTMENT OF THE BASIC MONTHLY PENSION 
OF RETIRED PERSONNEL COVERED BY THE GOVERNMENT SERVICE 
INSURANCE SYSTEM AND THE SOCIAL SECURITY SYSTEM TO THE PREVAILING 
COST OF LIVING INDEX AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
assembled: 
SECTION 1. The basic monthly pension and/or benefits retired personnel 
covered by the Government Service Insurance System and the Social Security System 
shall be automatically adjusted to the prevailing cost of living index as determined by 
the National Economic and Development Authority. 
SECTION 2. The Government Service Insurance System and the Social Security 
System as the case may be shall issue the necessary rules and regulations for the 
Implementation of this Act. 
SECTION 3. The benefits of this Act shall be extended to pensioners still 
surviving at the time of this approval. 
SECTION 4. The amount necessary for the implementation of this Act shall be 
charged to the State Insurance Fund of the Government Service Insurance System and 
to the Reserve Fund of the Social Security System, respectively. 
SECTION 5. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) day following its publication 
in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
1 
t i  
1 
INTRODUCED BY HON. MANUEL B. YJLLAR, JR. 
EXPLANATORYNOTE 
The Tax Reform Act of 1997 states that a non-resident citizen’s income is 
taxable only if it is derived from sources within the Philippines. Nonetheless, 
non-resident citizens whose income is not taxable are required to file an 
information return. 
As non-resident citizens whose income is derived from employment 
abroad, Overseas Filipino Workers, are also exempted from paying income 
taxes. Nonetheless, since they have to file an information return, they are 
appealing for an exemption from payment of penalty in case of late filing of the 
said returns. 
Since the payment of penalty for late filing of the income information 
return is a mere administrative requirement, this bill aims to amend the Tax 
Reform Act removing the penalty for late or non-filing of such returns. 
As a way of honoring these OFWs who have kept the Philippines afloat 
with pride and with their remittances, approval of this bill is earnestly sought. 


THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
.. 
INTRODUCED BY HON. MANUEL B. V1LLAR:JR. 
. 
-4 * 
AN ACT 
AMENDING SEC. 250 OF THE TAX REFORM ACT OF 1997 WITH REGARD TO 
WORKERS. 
THE LATE-FILING OF THE INFORMATION RETURN OF OVERSEAS FILIPINO 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
assembled: 
SECTION 1. Sec. 250 of the Tax Reform Act of 1997, is hereby amended, to read 
to as fOllOWS: 
"Failure to File Certain Information Returns.-In the case of each 
failure to file an information return, statement or list, or keep any record, 
or supply any information required by this Code or by the Commissioner 
on the date prescribed therefor, unless it is shown that such failure is 
due to reasonable cause and not to willful neglect, there shall, upon 
notice and demand by the Commissioner, be paid by the person failing to 
file, keep or supply the same One thousand pesos (P1,OOO) for each such 
failure: Provided, however, That the aggregate amount to be imposed for 
all such failures during a calendar year shall not exceed Twenty-five 
thousand pesos (P25,OOO). PROVIDED, FURTHER THAT LATE FILING OF 
THE REQUIRED INFORMATION RETURN OF OVERSEAS FILIPINO 
WORKERS SHALL NOT BE PENALIZED". 
SECTION 2. Repealing Clause- All laws, decrees, ordinances, rules and 
regulations, executive or administrative orders, and other presidential issuance 
inconsistent with this Act, are hereby repealed, amended or modified accordingly. 
SECTION 3. Effectivity- This Act shall take effect after (15) days following its 
publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
5 
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC ) 
!4 
.. . 
. .. 
... 
. 
~ ..' 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
FIRST REGULAR SESSION 
S E N A T E  
--!I" 
S.B. NO. - 
929 
Introduced by Senator JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The government's thrust towards environmental preservation and restoration 
requires the participation of all its implementing units and agencies. Although the 
problem concerning our environment is national in nature, the most effective approach 
would start with a parochial one. 
This bill intends to amend the section in the Local Government Code that 
indicates the appointment of an officer in charge of the eiiviroiiinental affairs optional. 
The necessity to make this appoiiitinent mandatory is recognized because the presence of 
an sucli an officer in every locality is very important for the overseeing, monitoring, and 
development of the government programs in their place of jurisdiction. 
For these reasons, the passage of this bill is earnestly souglit. 
RCITO ESTRADA 
Senator 
L A  


THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC ) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
1 
FIRST REGULAR SESSION 
1 
S E N A T E  
S.B. NO. 
929 
Introduced by Senator JINGGOY ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
TO STRENGHTEN LOCAL ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION BY MAKING THE 
APPOINTMENT OF AN ENVIRONMENT ANI) NATURAL RESOURCES 
OFFICER MANDATORY FOR PROVINCIAL, CITY AND MUNICIPAL 
GOVERNMENTS, AMENDING FOR THIS PURPOSE SECTION 484 (A) OF 
REPUBLIC ACT NUMBERED 7160, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE "LOCAL 
GOVERNMENT CODE OF I991 'I 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philgpines in Congress 
assembled: 
SECTION 1. Section 484 (a) of Republic Act No. 7160 is hereby amended to read as 
follows: 
"SEC. 484. Qualifications, Powers and Duties. - (a) X X X  The appointment of the 
environment and natural resources officer is [optional) MANDATORY for the 
provincial, city and municipal governments." 
SECTION 2. This Act shall take effect after fifteen (15) days following its publication 
either in the Official Gazette or a newspaper of general circulation. 
Approved,
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
} 
OF THE PHILIPPINE 
1 
First Regular Session 
1 
S E N A T E  
, I , - *  
, 
4z. 
S. No. 
Introduced by Senator S. R. OsmeAi 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Insurance premiums among most of the member c 
are exempt from taxes. The reason for this is that insuran 
an important segment of national savings which fund inv 
economic undertakings. 
Imposing a tax would be a c 
mobilization through insurance premiums. 
In particular, life insurance policies are exempt fro 
tax in Thailand and Brunei. Singapore imposes a doc[ 
only $1 per policy regardless of the sum insured, Mala 
policy and Indonesia of only RPI 000 per policy. 
This bill proposes to delete premium and documc 
life insurance policies and annuities. It is clear that ti 
on these items are more than offset by subsequent ta 
be generated in relation to incremental economic undc 
the exparision of national savings. 
In view of the foregoing, the immediate approval 
requested. 
111 
Antries of the ASEAN 
3 premiums constitute 
;tments in productive 
;incentive to savings 
I documentary stamp 
nentary stamp tax of 
iia of only RMlO per 
tary stamp taxes on 
? revenues foregone 
revenues that would 
takings launched by 
' this bill is earnestly 
SERGIO CISMENA 111 
SenLtor 


1 
2 
3 
4 
5 
6 
7 
8 
9 
10 
11 
12 
13 
14 
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS F THE REPUBLIC 
First Regular Session 
OF THE PHILIPPINE 
S. No. 
Introduced by Senator S. R. Osmeiia 111 
AN ACT 
ABOLISHING THE PREMIUM TAX AND DOCUMENTARY STAMP TAX ON 
LIFE INSURANCE POLICIES AND ANNUITIES, REPEALING FOR THE 
PURPOSE SECTIONS 121 AND 183, AND AMENDING SECTION 186, OF THE 
NATIONAL INTERNAL REVENUE CODE, AS AMENDED. 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION I .  Sections 121 on tax on insurance premium, and 183 on 
stamp tax on life insurance policies of the National Internal Revenue Code, as 
amended, are hereby repealed. 
SEC. 2. Section 186 of the same Code is hereby amended to read as 
follows: 
"SEC. 
186. Stamp tax on [policies of annuities and] pre-need 
plans. - [On all policies of annuities, or other instruments by whatever 
name the same may be called whereby an annuity may be made, 
transferred, or redeemed, there shall be collected a documentary stamp 
tax of one peso and fifty centavos (P1.50) on each two hundred pesos or 
fractional part thereof of the capital of the annuity, or should this be 
unknown, then on each two hundred pesos, or fractional part thereof, of 
thirty-three and one-third times the annual income.] On pre-need plans, 
the documentary stamp tax shall be Fifty centavos (P0.50) on each Five 
1 


1 
2 
of the plan.” 
3 
4 
hundred pesos (P500,00), or fractional part thereof, of the value or amount 
SEC. 3. This Act shall take effect after fifteen (A5) days following its 
publication in at least two (2) national newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved, 
2
/ 
‘sr’ ‘ 
t 
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
First Regular Session 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILrPPrNEs 
SENATE 
S. No. 803 
INTRODUCED BY HON. MANUEL B. VILLAR. JR. 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The country’s drug problem has worsened. Newspapers carry disturbing stories 
of rape, robbery and murder daily because of illegal drugs. Authorities have been 
trying to eradicate the problem, or at least minimize it by dismantling drug 
laboratories. 
The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency reported that for 2003, a total of 11 
clandestine shabu laboratories were dismantled and P38,868,152,297 worth of illegal 
drugs, controlled precursors and essential chemicals and laboratory equipment were 
seized. Apart from the raids and seizures to address the problem, a review of our 
existing laws on drugs must be done. 
The Probation Law (Presidential Decree No. 968) allows offenders to apply for 
probation which frees them from serving a jail term. This bill amends section 9 of PD 
No. 968 by adding provisions to disqualify those convicted of violating the Dangerous 
Drug Act from applying for probation. 
With the approval of this measure, violators of the Dangerous Drugs Act would 
now serve their jail term, and hopefully, eradicate the drug menace. 
In view of the foregoing, immediate passage of this bill is earnestly sought. 
MANUEL B. VI LAR, JR. 
4 


THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
,$ * 
INTRODUCED BY HON. MANUEL B. 'L'ILLAR, JR. 
* 
tc 
x 
AN ACT AMENDING PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 968 OTHERWISE KNOWN AS 
THE PROBATION LAW, AS AMENDED 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Section 9 of Presidential Decree No. 968 as amended by 
presidential Decree No. 1990 is hereby further amended to read as follows: 
"Section 9. Disqualified offenders. - The benefits of this Decree 
shall not be extended to those: 
a) 
b) 
sentenced to serve a maximum term of imprisonment of 
more than (6) years: 
convicted by subversion or any crime against the national 
security or 
the public order; 
who have previously convicted by final judgment of an 
offense punished by imprisonment of not less than one 
month and one day and/or a fine of not less than two 
hundred pesos; 
d) 
who have been once on probation under the provisions of 
this Decree; 
e) 
who are already serving sentence at the 'time of the 
substantive provisions of this Decree became applicable 
pursuant to Section 33 hereof; 
WHO HAVE BEEN CONVICTED OF VIOLATIONS OF THE 
DANGEROUS DRUG ACT OF 1972, AS AMENDED. 
c) 
4 
SECTION 2. Repealing Clause. - All laws, decrees, executive orders, issuances, 
rules and regulations or parts thereof inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are 
hereby repealed, amended or modified accordingly. 
SECTION 3. Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its 
complete publication in the Official Gazette or in at least two (2) newspapers of general 
circulation. 
Approved,
.7% . 
I 
1 
t 
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC ) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
1 
First Regular Session 
1 
S E N A T E  
S. B. No. 
, , ,- 
I t . -  
. 
. I  d 
I 
*
+
 
t 
Introduced by Senator JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
I 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Special Education Fund arises from the additional one percent tax on real 
property and is allotted by the Local Government Code to the local school boards. This 
Fund is allocated by the Code for the operation and maintenance of public schools; 
construction and repair of school buildings, facilities and equipment; educational 
research; purchase of boolts and periodicals; and sports development in amounts 
determined by the local school boards themselves. 
However, these purposes and applications do not respond to the challenges of the 
changing times. T l i ~ ,  
there is a need to amend the Local Government Code. To ensure 
the quality of our education system, the purposes and applications of the Special 
Education Fund must be expandeq. 
The passage of this bill is earnestly sought. 
EJERCITO ESTRADA 
Senator 
' I  
! 


THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC ) 
i- 
I 
t >  
-
-
 I 
t
i
 
OF THE PHILPPINES 
I 
First Regular Session 
) 
I 
' > > . .  
F
A
-
 
S E N A T E  
L 
S. B. No. 
8 
Introduced by Senator JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
EXPANDING THE PURPOSES 
AND APPLICATION 
OF THE 
SPECIAL 
EDUCATION FUND (SEF) AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SECTION 272 OF 
REPUBLIC 
ACT 
NO. 
7160, 
OTHERWISE 
KNOWN 
AS 
THE 
LOCAL 
GOVERNMENT CODE OF 1991 AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES 
Be it enacted in the Senate and the. House of Representatives of the Philippines Congress 
nssem bled. 
,I 
SECTION 1. Section 272 of Republic Act. No. 7160 is hereby amended to read 
as follows: 
I 
"'The proceeds from tlie additional one percent (1%) tax on real property accruing 
to the SEF shall be automatically released to the local school boards: Provided, That in 
case of provinces, the proceeds shall be divided equally between the provincial and 
municipal school boards: Provided however, That the proceeds shall be allocated for the 
operation and maintenance of public schools, INCLUDING THE PAYMENT OF 
ELECTRIC AND WATER BILLS.; construction and repair of school buildings, facilities 
and equipment, PAYMENT OF SALARIES.. ALLOWANCES,, AND OTHER 
BENEFITS 
OF 
TEACHING 
AND 
NON-TEACHING 
PERSONNEL,, 
ESTABLISHMENT 
AND 
MAINTENANCE 
OF 
EXTENSION 
CLASSES., 
INCLUDING THE CREATION OF TEACHER ITEMS FOR SAID CLASSES,, 
educational research, purchase of [boolts,] PRESCRIBED TEXTBOOKS, periodicals, 
TEACHING AIDS, OTHER INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS, and sports development 
as deteiiiiiiied and approved by the local school board." 
SEC. 2. All laws, orders, decrees, rules and regulations or parts thereof 
'I 
inconsistent with this Act are liereby repealed or amended accordingly. 


SEC. 3. This Act shall take effect within fifteen (15) days after its publicatioii in 
two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved, 
I 
I 
I
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
First Regular Session 
} 
OF THE PHILIPPINE 
S E N A T E  
I t >  
S. No. 296 
Introduced by Senator S. R. Osmeiia 111 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Human resources are the most important source of wealth and income for 
the country, and the education of our children and youth is the most important 
investment that we can make for their future. Parag'raph 2, Sec. 2 Article XIV if 
the Constitution clearly echoes this value as it provides: 
"(The State 
shall) 
establish and maintain a system of free 
public education in the elementary and high school levels. 
Without limiting the natural right of parents to rear their children, 
elementary education is compulsory for all children of school 
age." 
In order to safeguard every child's access to free education and ensure 
the implementation of this constitutional provision, this 'bill provides for the 
establishment of an elementary school in every barangay in the country, to be 
placed under the supervision of the Department of Education (DepEd) and to be 
funded from appropriations of the DepEd under the General Appropriations Act. 
Education is the best legacy we can make to the next generation. It is an 
investment which assures us of the best returns in terms of having adequately 
skilled work force that is ready and fully equipped to take on the global 
competition. 
In view of the foregoing, early passage of this bill is earnestly requested. 
rt 
111 
SERGIO OSMENA 
Senator 
L 


THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
First Regular Session 
1 
J 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
S E N A T E  
S. No. 
96 
Introduced by Senator S. R. OsmeAa 111 
AN ACT 
PROVIDING FOR THE FULL IMPLEMENTATION OF THE CONSTITUTIONAL 
PROVISION ON FREE ELEMENTARY EDUCATION AND APPROPRIATING 
FUNDS THEREFOR 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
1 
SECTION I. There shall be established, under the supervision of the 
2 
Department of Education (DepEd), an elementary school in every barangay in 
3 
the country. 
4 
SEC. 2. Appropriafions. - The funds necessary for the implementation 
5 
of this Act shall charged to the appropriations of the Department of Education 
6 
under the current General Appropriations Act. Thereafter, such sum as may be 
7 
necessary for its continued implementation shall be included in the annual 
8 
General Appropriations Act. 
9 
SEC. 3. Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (1 5) days after its 
10 
complete publication in two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
1 
q:4 
I’ 
7 1  y f-‘ 3 
:t p 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
S E N A T E  
Introduced by Senator S. R. OsmeAa I l l  
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
“Legitimation” is a remedy by means of which those who in fact were not born 
in wedlock and should, therefor, be considered illegitimate, are, by fiction, considered 
legitimate, it being supposed that they were born when their parents were already 
validly married ( I  Manresa 550). 
Executive Order No. 209, otherwise known as the Family Code of the 
Philippines, provides for the requisites of legitimation of children born out of wedlock 
and whose parent are not otherwise disqualified by law to marry each other at the time 
of the child’s conception. 
With the increasing incidents of children born out of wedlock to parents who are 
disqualified under the law to marry each other due to minority, there is a concurrent 
need to protect these children from suffering the sins of their parents. This bill, 
therefore, seeks to amend to Section 177 of E.O. 209, by allowing the legitimation of 
children born to parents who were disqualified to marry each other because of 
minority. 
In view of the foregoing, passage of this bill is earnestly sought 
Lt 
SERGIO OSMENA 111 
Senator 


‘ 
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
1 
* ,-- 
* -  
Y 
“
.
 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
S E N A T E  
~ 
~ 
Introduced by Senator S. R. OsmeAa 111 
I 
2 
3 
4 
5 
6 
7 
8 
9 
I O  
1 1  
12 
13 
14 
AN ACT 
PROVIDING FOR THE LEGITIMATION OF CHILDREN BORN TO PARENTS 
BELOW MARRYING AGE, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE ARTICLE 177 OF 
EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 209, AS AMENDED, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE 
FAMILY CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Republic of the 
Philip pines in Congress assem bled: 
SECTION 1. Article 177 of Executive Order No. 209, as amended, 
otherwise known as the Family Code of the Philippines, is hereby further 
amended to read as follows: 
“ARTICLE 177. 
Only children conceived and born outside of 
wedlock of parents who, at the time of the conception of the former, were 
not disqualified by any impediment to marry each other, EXCEPT BY 
IMPEDIMENT OF BEING UNDERAGE, may be legitimated.” 
SEC. 2. All laws, decrees, executive orders, rules and regulations, or 
parts hereof inconsistent with the provision of this Act are hereby repealed, 
amended or modified accordingly. 
SEC. 3. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in 
the Official Gazette or in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation 
whichever comes earlier. 
Approved, 
I
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
, 
'ti4 Jill* 3Q 
First Regular Session 
1 
Introduced by Senator JINGGOY EJERClTd ESTRADA 
-, 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
This proposed measure seeks to help promote the Philippine tourism industry by 
increasing the number of licensed travel and tour industry operators, by giving foreign 
and local tourists better to the vast natural and cultural heritage that we are known for. 
In the present set up, licensing policies and rules are too restrictive, thus, posing 
to applicants as they secure licenses to operate. Such practice hinders the 
fully realizing its potentials. 
ith the enactment of this bill, we hope to encourage investors as well whose 
undoubtedly help propel us to economic development. 
d a' 
GO EJE CITOESTMDA 


b i 
P ' 
i 
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
1 
*@$ 
JW 30 P a  :IO 
First Regular Session 
) 
AN ACT 
LIBERALIZING THE LICENSING OF TRAVEL AND TOUR AGENCIES 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. 
Any provision of law, rule or regulation to the contrary 
notwithstanding there shall be no limit on the number of travel and tour agencies 
allowed to operate in the Philippines. 
SECTION 2. Every application to operate a travel and tour agency shall be given 
due course by the proper government agency and in case of disapproval of the 
application, the applicant shall be immediately informed of the reason for such action by 
the approving authority. 
I 
SECTION 3. Requirements imposed under the regulations of the Department of 
Tourism regarding the capitalization, total assets and bond of applicants shall be 
reduced by one-half. 
SECTJON 4. This Act shall take effect fifteen (1 5) days after its publication in two 
(2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
T.HlRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
First Regular Session 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
I 
I 
' .  
Introduced by Senator S. R. Osrnefia 111 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The position of social welfare and development officer is one of the most 
important positions in the local government as he deals directly with the 
constituents of the local government unit. The social welfare and development 
officer is in charge of recommending programs and solutions that will alleviate 
the living conditions of the needy and other marginalized sectors of the society, 
.
.
 
The social welfare and development officer is the front ljner in the poverty 
Yet despite the crucial role he plays, 
alleviation programs of the government. 
his position is optional for the municipal government. 
This proposes to professionalize the delivery of basic services by requiring 
that only licensed social workers shall be appointed to the position of social 
welfare and development officer. The bill likewise makes the position mandatory 
for the municipality and not optional. 
Early passage of this bill is therefore earnestly sought. 
- 
& I t  
SERGIO OSMENA 111 
Senator 
'. . 


THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
P
b
 
S. No. 438 
Introduced by Senator S. R. OsmeAa 111 
AN ACT 
AMENDING SECTION 483 (A) OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7160, OTHERWISE 
KNOWN AS THE “LOCAL GOVERNMENT CODE OF 1991”, AND FOR 
OTHER PURPOSES 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Republic of the 
Philippines in Congress assern bled: 
1 
SECTION 
1. Section 483 (a) of Republic Act No. 7160, otherwise 
2 
3 
follows: 
known as the “Local Government Code of 1991” is hereby amended, to read as 
.. . 
~ 
4 
“SEC. 483. 
Qualifications, Powers and Duties. -- (a) No 
5 
person shall be appointed social welfare and development officer 
6 
unless he is a citizen of the Philippines, a resident of the local 
7 
government unit concerned, of good moral character and duly 
8 
licensed social worker [or a holder of a college degree preferably in 
9 
sociology or any other related course from a recognized college or 
10 
university, and a first grade civil service eligible or its equivalent]. 
11 
He must have acquired experience in the practice of social work for 
12 
at least five (5) years in the case of the provincial or city social 
13 
welfare and development officer, and three (3) years in the case of 
14 
the municipal social welfare and development officer. 


4 
“The appointment of a social welfare and development 
& 
2 
3 
4 
This Act shall take effect fifteen days following its complete 
5 
publication 
in 
at 
least 
two 
newspapers 
of 
general 
circulation. 
officer is mandatory for the provincial, [and] city AND MUNICIPAL 
governments [optional for municipal government 
SEC. 2. 
Approved,