bettergovph/raw-philippine-data huggingface dataset:
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SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
]
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
]
F irst R egular Session 
]
SENATE
S.B. No. 908
I
■Vvi.:;;...*7 <f)i(ue of tlift,?1’i '  ,-;r t
'](■> 
111 28 l\11 ••06
In tro d u ced  by SEN. WIN GATCHALIAN
AN ACT
REGULATING THE OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE OF INTERNET CAFES, 
OR COMPUTER RENTAL SHOPS, AND OTHER ESTABLISHMENTS 
OFFERING COMPUTER SERVICES TO MINORS, PROVIDING PENALTIES 
FOR VIOLATION THEREOF, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Internet has become the m ost popular source of inform ation used by 
the general public today. The world is literally at the tip of your fingertips when 
you 
browse 
the 
Internet. 
The 
Internet 
h as 
allowed 
the 
dissem ination 
of 
information to be readily available to the public. As such, it h as become a 
valuable 
tool for research 
and 
study used 
by not only 
students 
of the 
Philippines but also the general public as well.
Although the use of the Internet in the Philippines is quite popular, 
research shows th at majority of households in the country do not have Internet 
access at home and in m ost cases do not even own a com puter at home. For 
this reason, the Philippines ranks among the top countries in South E ast Asia 
where 
Internet 
cafes 
and 
com puter 
shops 
are 
extremely 
popular. 
These 
establishm ents have allowed those w ithout Internet access at home to be able
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S. No. 570
*16 
JUL 19 
P 4 S 2
KF.CIT
______________ Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillaiies IV______________
AN ACT
EXPANDING THE NUMBER OF DISORDERS INCLUDED IN THE NEWBORN 
SCREENING PROGRAM, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Republic Act 9288, otherwise known as the Newborn Screening Act of 2004, illustrates a 
procedure to detect a genetic and metabolic disorder in newborns that may lead to mental 
retardation and even death if left untreated.
In many countries, newborn screening has been a mechanism that protects babies from health 
risks. In our country, the rules and regulations implementing the Newborn Screening Act 
recommended the conditions to be included in the newborn screening panel of disorders. 
According to the Philippine Pediatrics Society, the advancement of newborn screening has 
succeeded in reducing morbidity and mortality associated with certain congenital disorders as 
it allows timely medical intervention for diagnosed patients. Affected children identified 
through newborn screening can lead nonnal lives with the help of prompt and appropriate 
medical management.
Recognizing the importance of newborn screening, this bill expands the number of disorders 
for which newborn infants in the country are required to be tested by law. Specifically, this 
bill provides for the expansion of the prescribed list of disorders for which testing is required 
under the implementing rules and regulations of R.A. 9288.
In view of the foregoing, the immediate approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
ANTON/d' ‘SONNY” F.
Senator
RILLANES IV
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S. B. No.
S E N A T E
V72
> n ia w
iF 
of Ih e p ' c r r t f a r j
'16 
JIJL 21 
All :20
K
l  . i  
f 
! 
. 
r ^ Y :
Introduced by SENATOR FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT
GRANTING ADDITIONAL INSURANCE BENEFITS TO BARANGAY 
CAPTAINS, PROVIDING FUNDS FOR THE PAYMENT OF ITS PREMIUMS,
AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Barangay captains have become more active in local community governance and 
public service, taking on more varied responsibilities such as arbitrating differences 
among community members, assisting in the conduct of elections, organizing foot 
patrols, and more recently, assisting with the evacuation of communities in disasters 
such as natural calamity and war. Several barangay captains have already lost their 
lives in the service of their communities.
Recognizing this. Senator Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada proposed a bill during the 16th 
Congress that seeks to provide additional benefits to barangay captains over and above 
what they currently receive under the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS). 
Since barangay captains assume their responsibilities will little compensation, the 
dangers associated with their functions puts them at higher risk in terms of insurance 
coverage.
As a form of incentive to recognize their contributions to the communities in 
which they serve and as an encouragement for them to continue their public service, 
adoption of this bill is earnestly requested.
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
akV.i'i
*16 JUL20 P4«5
SENATE 
S.B. No.
K I X ' l !  
I 
nV:
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT PROVIDING FOR A MAGNA CARTA OF THE POOR 
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The country's economic performance in recent years has been impressive 
and unprecedented. Its 7.2% GDP growth in 2013 was the highest in Asia earning 
the country improved investment grades. Its economic climate is now attractive, 
viable and profitable for investors to come in -  doing business has become more fun 
in the Philippines.
Despite the accomplishments of the country, it still does face a myriad of 
challenges -  around three million Filipinos do not have jobs and a fifth of the 
populace is poor.
The daunting task for the State is how to capitalize on its outstanding growth, 
the critically acclaimed reform efforts and the renewed global confidence, in order 
to make growth more inclusive and felt by all of the one hundred million Filipinos.
In the midst of this economic progress, it is essential for the State to craft 
policies so that every Filipino family is recognized regardless of the socio-economic 
status of its members, and to take care and provide for their needs.
The proposed measure thus seeks to ensure the protection and promotion of 
five basic rights of every Filipino: the right to food, employment, quality education, 
shelter and basic health care. It supports the creation of a just and dynamic 
environment where prosperity is shared through provision of adequate social 
services and enabling a rising standard of living and improved quality of life for 
everyone.
c -
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC}
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
S E N A  
S.B. No. 
‘
DATE
BILLS
INDEX
Introduced by SENATOR LACSON
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Unknown to many, the maintenance of local peace and order and 
the promotion of public safety in every nook and corner of our society 
rests primarily not with the local police, but rather, with a handful of 
men roaming each and every barangay in the country particularly at 
night, the Barangay Tanods. These men composed mainly of civilian 
volunteers, are armed not with a gun but with night sticks, are walking 
in groups of four (4) to six (6) men instead of riding in patrol cars in 
protecting their respective areas of jurisdiction and responding to the 
call of anyone when the need for it arises.
Through the years, the plight of these Barangay Tanods are often 
neglected. Although they are given some benefits for the task they 
perform, it is a fact that such benefits are not commensurate with the 
risk they are encountering while they are on duty. Thus, this proposed 
measure seeks to remedy the sad plight of our Barangay Tanods.
The proposed legislative measure seeks to increase the benefits 
presently received by our Barangay Tanods like Christmas Bonus 
equivalent to one-half (V2) of what the present Punong Barangay is 
receiving; insurance coverage equivalent to three-fourth (3A) of what 
the 
Punong 
Barangay 
is 
receiving; 
free 
legal 
services 
from 
government lawyers for criminal or civil cases filed against them in 
the performance of their duties; fifty percent (50%) discount in tuition 
and matriculation fees for his legitimate and legally adopted children 
attending any state colleges and universities; and preference in the 
availment 
of and 
or 
membership 
in 
barangay 
livelihood 
and 
development projects.
In view of the foregoing, early passage of this bill is earnestly 
sought.
PANFILfO'
LACSON
Senator
\
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC } 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
}
First Regular Session 
}
S E N A T E
S.B.No. 
258
dateJUL
BILLS & INDEX
Introduced by SENATOR LACSON
EXPLANATORY NOTE
There is no doubt that corruption remains to be a major hindrance in the 
development and progress of our nation. 
The integrity and trustworthiness of our 
government will continue to be questioned until this perennial problem is finally 
resolved.
The difficulty in combating corruption lies in its very nature of being committed 
behind closed doors and well beyond the purview of the public eye. This is where the 
importance of obtaining credible witnesses with reliable information regarding the 
corrupt practices of government officials or employees comes into place.
This proposed legislation seeks to encourage whistleblowers to come out in the 
open and put an end to the corrupt practices of some government officials or employees. 
At the same time, it aims to strengthen the present machinery in ensuring the full 
protection and security of these brave witnesses against any form of retaliation or 
ostracism, and establish a rewards-and-benefits system in order to ensure the livelihood 
and welfare of these whistleblowers. In order, however, to protect the public, a rigid 
procedure will also be enforced in order to prevent any abuses of this bill as well as to 
prevent false testimonies that will only wreak more havoc into our society.
sought.
In view of the above premises, the immediate approval of this bill is urgently
PANFJLIOTVI. LACSON
nator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
■* i'i. i’'-' 'B f f i r t  of t l; f  
u
■16 AUG -1 
PI :56
SENATE
SENATE BILL No. 96J1
H -
Introduced by SENATOR LEILA M. DE LIMA
AN ACT
REDEFINING THE CRIME OF ILLEGAL RECRUITMENT COMMITTED 
BY A SYNDICATE, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE ARTICLE 38 OF 
PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 442, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE 
“LABOR CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES,” AS AMENDED AND SECTION 6 
OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8042, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE “MIGRANT 
WORKERS AND OVERSEAS FILIPINOS ACT OF 1995,” AS AMENDED
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Illegal recruitment is a menace to the society. It is one of the most detestable 
crimes a Filipino can commit to another Filipino, a crime that has brought about 
sufferings to thousands of poor and innocent victims and their families. Their 
victims, who dreamed of landing high paying jobs abroad, instead find themselves 
financially and emotionally distressed. Worse, some of them landed in jails as a 
consequence.
Illegal recruitment is generally perpetrated by a syndicate, a term defined in 
our jurisdiction as a group of three or more persons formed with the intention of 
carrying out any or illegal transaction, enterprise or scheme. Over the years, 
collective efforts against illegal recruitment has been one of the major activities of 
several government offices, particularly the Department of Labor and Employment 
(DOLE), the Philippine Overseas and Employment Administration (POEA), the 
Philippine National Police (PNP) and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), 
and the Non-Government Organizations (NGO). They work hand in hand to 
eradicate illegal recruitment activities. For its part. Congress enacted Republic Act 
No. 8042 which broadened the concept of illegal recruitment under the Labor Code 
and provided stiffer penalties, especially for those that constitute economic sabotage, 
i.e.. Illegal Recruitment in Large Scale and Illegal Recruitment Committed by a 
Syndicate. Thus, at present, the crime of illegal recruitment is deemed committed by 
a syndicate, both under Art. 38 of PD 442 or the “Labor Code of the Philippines” and 
RA 8042 or the “Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos Act of 1995,” if carried out 
by a group of three (3) or more persons conspiring or confederating with one 
another.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
f g i 'f i r ,  ( if | | l;.
16 AUG-3 P615
SENATE
S.B. No. 984
in ^
Introduced by Senator Francis N. Pangilinan
AN ACT PROVIDING FOR A SYSTEM OF REDISTRIBUTING AND RECYCLING 
FOOD WASTE TO PROMOTE FOOD SECURITY
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations reveals that 
about 1.3 billion tons of food is squandered every year worldwide, which is more than 
enough to feed the world. In the Philippines, the Food and Nutrition Research Institute 
estimates show that every Filipino on the average wastes 3.29 kilograms of rice per 
year.
This staggering food wastage exists at the same time as people around the world 
are suffering and dying from hunger. The World Food Programme estimates around 795 
million people worldwide do not have enough food on their tables. The Social Weather 
Stations (SWS) survey reveals that 11.7 % or an estimated 2.6 million Filipino families 
experienced involuntary hunger at least once in the fourth quarter of 2015.
According to a FAO Report cited by the United Nations Environmental Programme 
(UNEP), the global food wastage does not only cause major economic losses but also 
wreaks significant harm on the natural resources. FAO estimated food wastage’s 
carbon footprint at 3.3 billion tonnes of C02 equivalent of greenhouse gas (GHG) 
released into the atmosphere every year. It added further that since only a low 
percentage of food wastage is composted, most of said waste ends up in landfills which 
represent one of the largest sources of GHG emissions from the waste sector.
Food waste is, thus, an urgent issue that should be solved. France is the first country 
in the world that banned supermarkets from throwing away or destroying edible food 
waste and forced them instead to donate said food to charities and food banks. Italy 
has become the second European Union (EU) country after France to pass legislation 
to reduce the amount of food thrown away by enabling schools, supermarkets, and 
restaurants to donate clean surpluses and leftovers to those in need. A city in Belgium 
requires supermarkets to donate their surpluses to food banks. Japan has a Food 
Recycling Law which aims to reduce food waste and promote recycling of food waste 
into animal feeds and fertilizers.
H; ii|l p ,^i^
( § f f l f t  a( |1|< 
r ' c t i i i
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATf;7'^
>.B. No. 
b  / O
'16 JUL 20 P3 :22
KI ! :
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT
MANDATING THE DISPLAY OF NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION ON THE MENU OF FOOD
ESTABLISHMENTS
EXPLANATORY NOTE
"The State shall protect and promote the right to health of the people and instill 
health consciousness among them" -  Section 15, Article 2,1987 Philippine Constitution.
While the number of foodies is growing with the number of must-try eating 
establishments around the country, we are confronted with the challenge of eating healthy 
and balanced diets. And though the love of food is an integral part of the Filipino identity, 
we must do our part in battling the health concerns that plague our society.
In the Philippines, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of mortality, 
accounting for 30.2% of deaths among Filipinos in 2003 according to a report from the 
Department of Health (DOH).
In addition, the risk for noncommunicable diseases increases, with increases in body 
mass index. The World Health Organization (WHO) expects that the percentage of Filipino 
obese men over thirty will increase from 23% of the population in 2005 to 24% in 2015, 
while the rate for women will increase from 34% in 2005 to 44% in 2015.
The WHO also noted that 80% of premature heart disease, stroke, and type two 
diabetes and 40% of cancers can be prevented through a healthy diet.
While we are well aware of the nutritional content of the food we consume from 
supermarkets, Filipinos are left in the dark when eating out, lacking easily accessible 
information to make informed choices when eating in restaurants. There are abundant data 
to show that people who eat at fast food establishments consume more calories and miss 
out on the more nutrient rich food groups. Consumers are unaware of the calorie and 
nutritional content of their choices and this leads to an unhealthy eating pattern.
fi-n
■ 
'V
(Jffitt of Ihr.^’rrirfa rjj
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHIILIPPINES )
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s .No. 851
'16 JUL21 P3:28
i n r  ;V;\ 
n \:
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto
AN ACT
MODERNIZING PUBLIC HEALTH INFRASTRUCTURE, PROVIDING FUNDS FROM 
THE PHILIPPINE AMUSEMENT AND GAMING CORPORATION (PAGCOR) 
INCOME, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 1869, AS 
AMENDED BY REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9487
Explanatory Note
An overview of the Philippine Health Sector Reform in the Philippines deseribed the 
country’s health sector as one that exists in the context of persistent poverty and fmaneial 
ehallenges . As the population eontinues to grow, publie health spending beeomes inadequate. 
Most of our publie hospitals have deteriorated in tenns of available medieal equipment and 
faeilities as compared to their private eounterparts. Such condition affects the quality of 
healthcare and serviees that they provide to the Filipino people partieularly the poor.
On the other side of the spectrum, there is quite a number of Government Owned and 
Controlled Corporations (GOCCs), ineluding the Philippine Amusement and Gaming 
Corporation (PAGCOR) that has been in the spotlight in the reeent past due to eontroversies 
involving the alleged misuse of their funds.
Findings of the previous PAGCOR management indieted the Corporation’s former 
offieials for transgressions in the use of its ineome in the past few years. Other anomalous 
transaetions were noted including the use of revenues for partisan aetivities and failure to 
alloeate and remit the mandatory eontributions to benefieiaries. Likewise, some of the mandated 
contributions out of PAGCOR’s income have now beeome obsolete beeause the Corporation’s 
Charter has not been amended since the year 2007.
This bill proposes to amend the PAGCOR charter by allocating the 50% share of the 
national government in the aggregate gross earnings of the Corporation to fund the 
modernization of publie health infrastructure, speeifieally of all district, provincial and regional 
hospitals in the country. This allocation is meant to improve the quality of healtheare that the 
publie hospitals deliver by modernizing their medical equipment and faeilities, supporting their 
possible increase in bed capaeity and providing additional funding for the proeurement of 
neeessary medieines.
The necessary requirements for personal services in line with the said modernization of 
publie health infrastructure shall be included in the General Appropriations Aet under the 
Department of Health.
With PAGCOR funds used to finance the modernization of publie health infrastrueture, 
the finaneial ehallenges in publie health sector and the issues on transpareney and effeetive 
utilization of the Corporation’s income shall be addressed.
In view of the foregoing, the approval of the bill is eamestb
See Herrera et al, “Overview of Health Sector Refonos in the Philippines and Possible Opportunities ftfr Publid^Private Partnerships", Asian 
Institute of Management. Accessed at file:///C:/Users/acer/Downloads/liealth%20sector%20refonn.pdf,pdf otyOune 27,2016.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES )
First Regular Session 
)
S ciuitf
I^Hur of 
> rrrrt3 r|
*16 J0U9 A10 22
S E N A T E  
S.B. No. 42.9
: s . '  
1-.■IVt.l) BY;
In tro d u ced  by SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA
AN 
ACT 
CREATING 
A 
NATIONAL 
SEAFARERS 
COMMISSION, 
PRESCRIBING ITS POWERS AND FUNCTIONS, AND APPROPRIATING 
FUNDS THEREFORE, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
Explanatory Note
This bill seeks the establishm ent of the National Seafarers Commission, 
which shall develop, organize, m aintain, operate, integrate and stream line 
the policies and program s related to the Philippine seafaring profession.
Despite their considerable contribution to the country’s economy, Filipino 
seafarers are given inadequate attention. Seafarers have to go to different 
agencies to secure the necessary docum entation for them  to practice their 
profession locally and internationally. They have to secure their Seafarers 
Identification and Record Book (SIRB) and Certificate of Competency from 
the 
Maritime 
Industry 
Authority 
(MARINA) 
and 
their 
Seafarer’s 
Registration Certificate (SRC) from the Philippine Overseas Employment 
Adm inistration (POEA). O ther trainings, sem inars and docum ents have to 
be secured from other different agencies and organizations such as the 
National Telecom m unications Commission, Philippine Coast G uard and 
the Boards of Marine Deck and Engineer Officers of the Professional 
Regulation Commission.
There is a need for legislation to create a one-stop shop to attend to all the 
requirem ents of seafarers and focus on the unique dem ands and 
conditions of the seafaring profession.
This m easure seeks to create a National Seafarers Commission (NSC) 
which shall serve as a centralized governm ent agency th at will provide the 
necessary services, supervision, regulation and guidance the Filipino 
seafarer needs in order to develop as a globalized profession. Training 
program s, sem inars, certifications and other docum ents needed by the 
seafarer will be readily m ade available under one agency.
In view of the foregoing, the urgent passage of this bill is sought.
l o r E n l e g a r d a
Senator
eiiiitr
of f h t ^ m f t a r y
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
SENATE
560
S. No,
'16 JUL19 P4I46
Ri C K f V l'i)  BY:
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
TO STRENGTHEN THE RECYCLING PROGRAM FOR ALL RECHARGEABLE 
BATTERIES 
MANUFACTURED, 
SOLD 
AND 
DISTRIBUTED 
IN 
THE 
PHILIPPINES, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
As the Philippine battery industry continues to grow, risk of disposing rechargeable batteries 
in the solid waste stream also becomes more threatening. Disposing rechargeable batteries 
which commonly contain health-hazardous heavy metals such as cadmium, lead and mercury 
are of particular concern since these are considered as toxic waste materials. Such product, if 
carelessly disposed of, could expose the environment and water to lead and acid, pollute the 
lakes and streams, and may cause bums or danger to eyes and skin.
The use of rechargeable batteries can reduce the number of batteries and at the same time 
increase the amount of heavy metals entering the waste stream. To reduce toxic waste in the 
environment, the most effective and appropriate method to promote the reduction of toxic 
metals from rechargeable battery disposal is to require the battery industry to accept financial 
responsibility for the environmentally sound collection, transportation and recycling or 
proper disposal of discarded rechargeable batteries.
It is in the public interest of the Filipino people to maximize the removal of used rechargeable 
batteries from the solid waste stream by banning its disposal and requiring manufacturers to 
take back and recycle the used rechargeable batteries that are sold or disposed of in any part 
of the country.
In view of the foregoing, approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
ANTO
10'*‘S0N1VY” F.
Senator
ANESIV
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
S.B. No.
SENATE176
dateJUN
TIME;
BILLS
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT
INSTITUTIONALIZING THE POVERTY REDUCTION THROUGH SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP 
(PRESENT) PROGRAM AND PROMOTING SOCIAL ENTERPRISES WITH THE POOR AS PRIMARY
STAKEHOLDERS
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This measure provides the framework for the planning and implementation of a 
National Poverty Reduction Through Social Entrepreneurship (the "PRESENT") Program. The 
PRESENT Bill provides a nurturing environment for the growth and burgeoning of strong and 
innovative Social Enterprises as tools to reduce poverty.
A "Social Enterprise" or "SE" as defined in the proposed bill, refers to a social mission- 
driven organization that conducts economic activities providing goods and/or services directly 
related to its primary mission of improving the well-being of the poor, basic and marginalized 
sectors and their living environment. A social enterprise explicitly declares and pursues poverty 
reduction as its principal objective by purposefully rendering both transactional and 
transformational services. An SE engages and invests in the poor to become effective workers, 
suppliers, clients and/or owners and ensures that a substantive part of the wealth created by 
the enterprise is distributed to or benefits them.
In addition to reinvesting its surplus or profits back to the enterprise to sustain the 
fulfillment of its social mission, a SE also uses its surplus or profits and mobilizes other 
resources to assist the poor to become partners in SE or value chain management and 
governance and to become partners in community, sectoral and societal transformation.
This is in line with Article XII, Section 1 of the Philippine Constitution which states:
Section 1. The goals of the national economy are a more eqilitable distribution of 
opportunities, income, and wealth; a sustained increase in the amount of goods and 
services produced by the nation for the benefit of the people; and an expanding 
productivity as the key to raising the quality of life for all, especially the under-privileged.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
s e n a:
S.B. No. f75
dateJUN
BILLS &
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT
CREATING THE INNOVATION COUNCIL AND PROVIDING BENEFITS AND PROGRAMS TO 
STRENGTHEN, PROMOTE, AND DEVELOP THE PHILIPPINE STARTUP ECOSYSTEM
EXPLANATORY NOTE
At the 2015 APEC Summit, the world saw a glimpse of Philippine innovation as Aisa 
Mijeno shared the story of her SALt Lamp, a lamp that is powered by saltwater, suitable for 
households along the rural coastal villages that have little or no stable access to electricity.
It is vital that we give all such ideas the chance to come to life. Through this bill, 
Filipinos with excellent startup business ideas will benefit by being given the necessary 
support—in terms of registration, incentives, subsidies, funding, technical assistance, 
accreditation and assessment, and a budding pool of talented workers that will aid them in 
the steep uphill one faces when putting up a business.
This bill aims to put in place the ecosystem necessary to cultivate startups in the 
Philippines.
The Innovative Startup Act will see the creation of an Innovation Council comprised 
of different government agencies such as DTI, DOST, DICT, members of the private sector, 
representatives of research institutions, among others, that can take the lead in directing 
innovation efforts, supporting startups with progressive programs starting from the school 
level onwards.
Through the Innovative Startup Act, valuable financial assistance will be awarded to 
startups through tax breaks and salary subsidies with the view of giving them the best 
chance at thriving.
The bill will mandate the creation of a fund specifically to provide grants to startups 
and to ensure the sustainability of running all programs and policies related to the 
Innovative Startup Act.
o f thfe<^ i ’ fr e ta r y
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S.B. No. 7Q8
'16 JUL 20 P4*45
RKCEiV;;:; RY:
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT IMPLEMENTING THE PEOPLE'S RIGHT TO INFORMATION AND THE 
CONSTITUTIONAL POLICIES OF FULL PUBLIC DISCLOSURE AND HONESTY IN THE PUBLIC
SERVICE AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The colorful relationship between the Filipino people and their government is often 
clouded by distrust owing to a perceived lack of transparency to the public. For a nation that 
is still building on the foundations of hard-earned democracy, it is essential for the public to 
have convenient access to ail publicly relevant information.
This bill seeks to lay down a framework for all government agencies to be able to 
provide all publicly relevant information to any citizen requesting for it. With this bill, each 
government agency will be mandated to provide a Freedom of Information manual that 
allows both citizens and government employees to be clearly informed on the process of 
obtaining and disseminating publicly relevant information.
With this legislation, all branches of government will be required to post information 
such as their monthly collections and disbursements, procurement contracts and 
agreements with local and foreign contractors for projects.
All Filipinos, whether individuals, businesses or community organizations, have the 
right to access information which is related to the governance of their nation and that 
informs national policy, except for information that is pertinent to national security.
An efficient and accessible process for the procurement of public information will 
serve to democratize all government functions by allowing ordinary citizens, civil society 
organizations, and businesses to be informed and have a greater understanding of policies.
Aside from this mandate serving as a watchdog against corruption and abuse of 
public funds, it will also allow ordinary citizens to educate themselves on how government 
agencies allocate funds, what information is used to inform policies, who are the key 
officials in government offices and this—amongst other information—they will be better 
able to help our officials in responsible and participative governance.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
of Ilie ^ i’rTelary
'16 JUL20 P3:l5
SENATE
>.B. No. 667
R K C K J V r.rt RY: f
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT
TO PREVENT HARASSMENT OF TOURISTS
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Philippine islands are emerging to be among the most sought after - and most 
fun - travel destinations in the world. Our very own island paradise of Palawan has been 
voted as the most beautiful island in the world by Conde Nast Traveler readers two years in 
a row. And even local tourism has started to pick up with Filipinos' desire to see more of the 
country from Batanes to Siargao.
From January to April of this year, we have already welcomed over 2 million visitors 
to our shores, and it is a challenge to us Filipinos to ensure that they truly have more fun in 
the Philippines.
We Filipinos take pride in our hospitality and ability to make guests feel like they're 
exactly where they should be with our warm smiles, delicious food, and caring nature. But 
with many of our countrymen living in dire straits, many attempt to take advantage of 
unknowing tourists out of desperation.
This bill seeks to ensure the safety of our guests by discouraging aggressive 
solicitation from tourists and imposing fines for repeat offenders. Through this measure, 
tourism help desks will be established in identified tourist havens and regular patrols should 
be conducted to safeguard the proper implementation of the law.
To foster a tourist-friendly culture among Philippine communities residing in tourist 
havens, the Department of Tourism, in coordination with the barangay officials, shall 
promote responsible marketing and conduct regular seminars for the local vendors and 
residents.
Let us assure visitors of our beautiful islands of a pleasant Philippine adventure.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E
S. No. 
237
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Introduced by Senator GREGORIO B. HONASAN I I
AGUS-PULANGUI PRIVATIZATION EXEMPTION ACT OF 2016
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Let us listen to our Mindanaonon brethren.
The people o f Mindanao, through the Association of Mindanao Rural Electric 
Cooperatives, the Mindanao Business Council, the Lanao Power Consumers Federation, 
the Mindanao Commission on W omen, the Philippine Chamber o f Commerce and 
Industry-M indanao and the Confederation o f Provincial Governors, City Mayor and 
Municipal Mayors League Presidents, among others, are speaking w ith one voice: No to 
the Privatization o f the Agus-Pulangi Hydroelectric Powerplants.
The reasons stated for opposing the privatization of the Agus-Pulangi Hydro Plants 
are as follows:
1. 
The privatization of the Agus-Pulangi Hydro Power Plants will result to 
the loss of economic com petitiveness o f the power supply sector in Mindanao. 
Mindanao presently has the cheapest generation charge in the country.
2. 
The Agus-Pulangi Hydro Plants provide more than 50%  o f Mindanao's 
power requirements at the cheapest cost (less than Pl.OO/kW h) as against P5.00 or 
more for oil/fossil fuel-based power plants.
3. 
The Agus-Pulangi are already fully paid assets o f the governm ent. If 
sold to a new private owner, the new owner will have to recover its investm ent by 
increasing the rates to be paid by the people of Mindanao.
4. 
Selling the Agus-Pulangi Hydro Plants to ju s t 1 private buyer will 
monopolize more than 50%  of Mindanao's power needs in the hands o f ju s t one 
corporation.
"Mr. President, w hat the consumer will get out o f all of this in the long term , let us 
say 10 years down road, ... is that the cost of power to the consumer w ill be 
lower." This was the sponsorship speech on the promise o f the Electric Power Industry 
Act or EPIRA. (Journal o f the Senate, 23 May 2000)
When the EPIRA was passed in 2001 as Republic Act No. 9136, the average retail 
prices of electricity were as follows:
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE ^  
^
S.B. No. 917
It. Err ■■ l'’ * ^ 
'‘I T * ' R 
« *
’16 
I'JL 28 All :23
’ 
P.Y
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
i- l 1
AN ACT
ESTABLISHING THE FILIPINO IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM, PROVIDING FUNDS 
THEREFOR, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
A list of of valid IDs in the Philippines enumerates 33 different forms of 
identification that are obtained from various government agencies. Often, a 
different form of identification will be required of a Filipino citizen depending on the 
service or government agency involved. The bureaucracy, red tape, and wasted time 
involved in procuring and releasing each different form of identification is 
economically inefficient for both the government and its citizens. This also hinders 
the timely delivery of public services to ordinary Filipinos who bear the opportunity 
cost of applying and waiting for their IDs.
The proliferation of various forms of government identification obtained 
separately from different agencies also makes the government identification systems 
vulnerable to discrepancies and identity fraud.
If we are to continue our pursuit to provide high quality social services to all 
Filipinos in an effective and timely manner, we must take the necessary steps in 
unifying the identification system which will allow us to have better control and 
more efficient interaction between citizens and the government.
This bill seeks to establish a unified Filipino Identification System, to be 
implemented by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). The PSA will manage the 
Filipino Citizen Registry - a master database of all registered Filipinos. Every Filipino 
citizen, including those born or residing overseas, will be assigned a unique Common 
Reference Number at birth and will only be required to renew this ID upon reaching 
the age of majority and again upon reaching the age of 60. This ID shall be used as 
the sole required identification in any government transaction and will be provided 
free of charge as part of the government's social responsibility.
In pursuing a national identification system, Filipinos will have a more 
efficient experience with government transactions and the government will benefit 
from a thorough database of information on Filipino citizens. This will also pave the 
way to more effective ways of delivering government services such as anti-poverty 
programs and other social services to improve the quality of life for all.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
SENATE
637
S. No.
Iwj
ffitt i f  thp,> 141 It
'16 JUL 20 A 9:28
K S ' r .
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
GRANTING BENEFITS AND PRIVILEGES TO FORMER PRESIDENTS AND 
VICE PRESIDENTS OF THE PHILIPPINES OR THEIR SURVIVING SPOUSES, 
AMENDING FOR THIS PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 5059, REPEALING 
REPUBLIC ACT NO. 2087, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Former Presidents and Vice Presidents do not cease in performing many of their public 
responsibilities upon retirement. As former highest-ranking officers of the land, they have 
post-presidential and post-viee presidential duties to perform, among which are responding to 
post-presidency and post-vice presidency mail and invitations and attending to speaking 
engagements. In cognizance of these social obligations, existing pieces of legislation grant 
former presidents and their widows/widowers certain benefits and privileges. Aside from 
franking privilege. Republic Act No. 5059 mandates that a former president shall receive an 
annual pension of P40,000.00, while Republic Act No. 2087 allows for the former president's 
widow/widower to be entitled to an annual pension of P24,000.00.
The extent and coverage of said measures, however, is not enough to sufficiently respond to 
the unique position of said former high officials in the publie sphere even after they leave 
their post. At present, former presidents in the country receive a monthly pension of 
P8,000.00.' In the United States, former presidents, under the Former Presidents Act of 1958, 
receive a monthly pension equivalent to the salary of a department secretary, among many 
other benefits. This was enacted to diseourage them from being forced into activities deemed 
unsuitable for a former head of state. Moreover, said measures cater to the needs of former 
Presidents alone, excluding former Vice Presidents.
This measure seeks to assist our former Presidents and Vice Presidents in the performance of 
their informal, ceremonial, but, nonetheless, public duties, through the grant of benefits and 
privileges to them and/or their surviving spouses, in effect expanding Republic Act No. 5059 
and repealing Republic Act No. 2087.
1 M. Villanueva. 2014. So y o u  s t ill w a n t to  b e  P re s id e n t o f  th e  P h i?  Retrieved from  
http://www.philstar.com /opinion/2014/03/21/1303393/so-vou-still-want-be-president-Dhl
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SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S. No. 586
■16 JUL19 P5:17
!{{■ 
•■ 
'Y:
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
ESTABLISHING A FARM MACHINERY MANUFACTURING PROGRAM AND 
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Industrialization is a key to a nation's progress. However, it is not only limited to business 
enterprises and factories, but also to agriculture. Our country, though primarily an 
agricultural-based economy, is still left behind in terms of production due to lack of modem 
farm equipment that other agricultural countries have been already using.
The experience of countries that have agriculturally-based economies flourished through 
planning on a concurrent industrial development program. The strategy has paid-off and 
catapulted countries like Taiwan, Korea and Japan into the First World.
A comprehensive program that can introduce mechanized farming to boast production is 
imperative. Through the Farm Machinery Manufacturing Program, this idea could be 
achieved. With this, local manufacturers will be encouraged to enter into a joint venture with 
foreign companies that will assist and train them, with the view of enabling them to maximize 
the utilization of local materials in the products.
In view of the foregoing, this bill is earnestly recommended.
X r -,l _ 
—
'
ANTONIO ‘’SONNy” F. TRILLANES IV
j  
Senator 
^
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
o f  t f l L , ?  ' r r ' i  I I  V
■16 
JUL 21 
All :44
S E N A T E  
S. B. No. *^93
KJ * >
' W :
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT
IMPLEMENTING SECTION 24, ARTICLE XVIII OF THE CONSTITUTION ON 
THE DISMANTLING OF PRIVATE ARMIES AND OTHER PRIVATE ARMED 
GROUPS NOT RECOGNIZED BY DULY CONSTITUTED AUTHORITY AND 
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Section 24, Article XVIII of the 1987 Constitution provides that as a State Policy, 
"Private armies and other armed groups not recognized by duly constituted authority 
shall be dismantled. All paramilitary forces including Civilian Home Defense Forces not 
consistent with the citizen armed force established in this Constitution, shall be 
dissolved or, where appropriate, converted into the regular force."
It is the intent of this bill to address the oversight of government to implement 
the dismantling of private armed groups and armies - entities often involved in 
violations of laws, engage in acts of terrorism and other abuse. As evidenced in the 
recent Maguindanao Massacre, failure to keep private armies in check results in 
lawlessness and enables them to operate beyond the framework of the Constitution.
Hence, in the best interest of the Republic, the immediate approval of this bill is 
urgently sought.
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session
ifilfire  of
'16 
)UL 26 A9:12
PPPP
S E N A T E
883
S. B.
K
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!
Introduced by Senator Poe
AN ACT
ENHANCING THE CAPABILITIES, MANDATE, AND ORGANIZATIONAL 
STRUCTURE 
OF 
THE 
MOVIE 
AND 
TELEVISION 
REVIEW 
AND 
CLASSIFICATION 
BOARD 
(MTRCB), AMENDING 
FOR THE 
PURPOSE 
PRESIDENTIAL DECREE 1986
Explanatory Note
The 1987 Philippine Constitution provided the following guarantees, in Article XIV:
• "The State shall foster the preservation, enrichment, and dynamic evolution of a Filipino 
national culture based on the principle of unity in diversity in a climate of free artistic and 
intellectual expression."
• "Arts and letters shall enjoy the patronage of the State. The State shall conserve, promote, 
and popularize the nation's historical and cultural heritage and resources, as well as artistic 
creations."
• "All the country's artistic and historic wealth constitutes the cultural treasure of the nation 
and shall be under the protection of the State which may regulate its disposition."
The equivalent constitutional provisions in the 1935 and 1973 fundamental law served 
as backdrops for the issuance of P.D. No. 1986, the present Movie and Television Review 
and Classification Board (MTRCB). The same statute recognizes the crucial role of prudent 
film and television regulation. In addition to classification and review, P,D. No. 1986 states
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES ) 
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E  
S. B. No. 
1.3
BILLS
Introduced by Senator FRANKLIN M. DRILON
AN ACT MODIFYING THE COMPENSATION AND POSITION 
CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM OF CIVILIAN GOVERNMENT PERSONNEL 
AND THE BASE PAY SCHEDULE OF MILITARY AND UNIFORMED 
PERSONNEL IN THE GOVERNMENT
EXPLANATORY NOTE
In 2015, the Senate approved on third reading the Salary Standadization Law of 
2015 in response to the clamor for an increase in compensation and benefits to 
government personnel. Regretably, the SSL of 2015 was not enacted into law.
Today, we are introducing the same bill in the 17th Congress to reward our 
government workers and to introduce this historic reform in the governmental 
compensation system.
This bill mandates a three-year compensation increase for the national 
government’s 1.53 million civilian and military and uniformed personnel. The 
compensation package is composed of salary increase, mid-year 14th month pay and 
enhanced performance-based bonus system. This piece of legislation seeks to increase 
the base pay of covered employees on the average by 27%, while the 14th month pay will 
further raise basic pay by 8%. The enhanced PBB is equivalent to 1 to 2 months’ basic 
salary or an average 10% increase in basic pay. Government personnel who performs a 
greater role and carry a heavier responsibility in improving performance will receive a 
higher bonus.
The first tranche of the adjustment will take effect on January 1, 2017, and the 
subsequent two tranches on every January 1 thereafter until the final tranche in 2019.
In structuring the compensation adjustment, five parameters were considered: a) Raise 
the minimum salary for Salary Grade 1 to Eleven Thousand Sixty Eight Pesos (Pii,o68) 
to make it even more competitive with the market ra|es; b) Bring the compensation of 
government personnel closer to their private counterparts to at least 70% of the median 
of the market for all salary grades; c) Eliminate overlaps in between salary grade 
allocations of government personnel to recognize differences in duties and 
responsibilities of the positions; d) Maximize the net take home pay of government
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SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s.No. 
5 9 7
'16 JUL 19 P5 23
Hi . 
I . 
*»Y:
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
TO ESTABLISH AND MAINTAIN AN OFFICE OF VETERANS AFFAIRS IN THE 
PHILIPPINE EMBASSY IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, PRESCRIBING 
ITS 
FUNCTIONS, 
PROVIDING 
FUNDS 
THEREFOR AND 
FOR 
OTHER 
PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Despite the veterans receiving compensation for their services to the country, they have yet to 
collect their full benefits and privileges from the US government for whom they fought and 
served during World War II.
Thus, this bill seeks to establish and maintain an office of Veterans in the Philippine Embassy 
in the United States of America to represent, negotiate and lobby for the rights of the Filipino 
veterans with the appropriate US offices. The office shall be maintained for five (5) years 
after its date of establishment or until the Filipino veterans shall receive their full benefits and 
privileges, the time of which shall not exceed another (5) five years.
To ensure that the Filipino veterans enjoy their twilight years with the aid of their rightfully 
earned benefits and privileges, the urgent approval of this measure is earnestly sought.
In view of the foregoing, immediate passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
ANTONIO
TRIL
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
•16 JUL 20 P4 *03
S E N A T E
S.B. No.
RF('.fr.i 1. i J
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT
INSTITUTIONALIZING THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE PHILIPPINE BIG DATA CENTER
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The world we live in is in constant change. With these changes, more data 
are being collected, stored, accessed, analyzed, re-analyzed and disseminated.
Big Data has risen as an alternative source of information. It refers to 
datasets whose volume is beyond the ability of typical database software tools to 
capture, store, manage and analyze within a tolerable elapsed period of time.
Today, Big Data from information-sensing smart phones, social media and the 
Internet, remote sensing and climate sensors is more available and accessible.
Thus, establishment of a technology center that facilitates Big Data is 
proposed in order for policy and services to be more relevant to the changing needs 
of the people.
With the help of the Philippine Big Data Center, disaster response teams will 
be armed by important information and other data needed during emergency 
situations and calamities.
The Bill proposes an infrastructure where Big Data is utilized for research and 
development, and invention and innovation.
The Center will develop a range of standards to use software and tools for 
analytics on massive amounts of data being generated from the use of the Internet 
and other technology.
The Center will also be responsible for disseminating and communicating the 
knowledge gained from its research activities to its stakeholders in both the public 
and private sectors. The analysis from Big Data will help policy makers to be more 
responsive to the needs of the public.