bettergovph/raw-philippine-data huggingface dataset:
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
#)
iO
JUL 19 
AlO '-4R
S E N A T E  
S. B. No.
. A..
In tro d u ced  by SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA
AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE DEVELOPMENT AND PROTECTION OF THE 
PHILIPPINE HANDLOOM WEAVING INDUSTRY
Explanatory Note
Textiles and garm ents rem ain to be the third commodity cluster responsible for 
the US$ 2.14B in exports in 2012. In this sector, handloom  weaving is one of 
the m ost tim e-honored cottage industries in the Philippines and a resource for 
rural employment and income. The industry has a considerable role in rural 
development as well as a great source of cultural pride and national identity.
However, the industry faces some inherent problem s, including globalization, 
the high price of raw m aterials, m arketing issues, unfair competition, minimal 
product diversification, disorganized artisan agencies, and the lack of 
governm ent support.
Economic challenges and frayed m ainstream  m arket enthusiasm  have tucked 
the handloom  weaving industry to the shelves of vanishing Filipino traditions 
and perhaps to the brink of extinction.
The P h ilip p in e H andloom  W eaving In d u stry  D evelopm ent A ct seeks to 
revive the trade and empower weavers to be able to rise above the competitive 
global m arket and be able to grow their businesses in a self reliant m atter. 
These goals can be realized by creating a framework and roadm ap th at will 
synergize the various schem es and program s of other departm ents and 
agencies to optimize resource utilizations th at aid the livelihood of the 
handloom  weaving industry. This will give the weavers, artisans th at safeguard 
the nation’s cultural heritage, a better quality of life.
The Philippine Handloom Weaving Industry Development Act will preserve and 
further develop this century-old tradition. This industry can only flourish when 
there is guaranteed concrete and long-term economic benefits for the weavers 
and their families.
T his bill proposes th e  following:
1. The passage of the Philippine Handloom Weaving Industry Development Act 
will promote local trade, celebrate Filipino culture, and give weavers economic 
and financial viability.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES ) 
First Regular Session 
)
.. ■ " 
l(ll » (i( (!'<• 
I
■1<S 
!'|! 19 
?7_:?2
SENATE 
S. No. 
^
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
CREATING A POSITION OF RURAL DENTIST IN EVERY RURAL HEALTH 
UNIT UNDER THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS 
THEREFOR
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Many of the dental diseases are considered as public health problems in developing countries. 
In the Philippines, such problems, exacerbated by the lack of proper dental health practices of 
the general population, have become serious national concerns.
The ubiquitous effects of the magnitude of the dental problem can be translated in eeonomie 
terms. Every tooth affected means two (2) days loss of productivity, lost opportunities, 
recurring pain and severe discomfort as well as increased cost of dental treatments.
This bill seeks to create a position of rural dentist in every rural health unit to avert the loss in 
eeonomie produetivity of our people and to alleviate the discomfort felt by those afflieted 
with such diseases. Considering that there are six hundred fifty-two (652) rural health dentists 
in the plantilla of the Department of Health distributed in the twelve (12) regions, the creation 
of one (1) dentist position in each of the 1,991 rural health units under the Department of 
Health, the priority targets of dental health services - pre-school children, school children, 
pregnant and non-pregnant mothers and other adults - will be adequately served.1
While it will cost an additional P35 million a year in tenns of personal services, the benefits 
to be derived from these services will be tremendous. An addition of 8,034,000 children, 
mothers and adults can be properly attended to.2
With these positions, the ratio of dentist to the population will approach the standard ratio of 
1 ;20,000 population, similar to that of physicians.
In view of the foregoing, the passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
ANTONia4
- f -
'SONNY” F. TRILLANES
Senator
1 http:l/www.virtual-asia.comlphlbizpakireportsIjiJeslhealthyh.pdj
2 Ibid.
w
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
@
,^enatp 
*16 JUL21 
AlO 28
S. B. No.
S E N A T E
729
n r^Y:
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT
ADDRESSING THE SYSTEM OF PROSTITUTION, IMPOSING PENALTIES ON 
ITS PERPETRATORS, PROVIDING PROTECTIVE MEASURES AND SUPPORT 
SERVICES FOR ITS VICTIMS, REPEALING FOR THE PURPOSE ARTICLES 202 
AND 341 OF ACT NO. 3815, AS AMENDED, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE
REVISED PENAL CODE
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Article 11 of the Constitution provides that the State values the dignity of every 
human person and guarantees full respect for human rights. The State also recognizes 
the vital role of the youth in nation-building and shall promote and protect their 
physical, moral, spiritual, intellectual, and social well-being. Further, the State 
recognizes the role of women in nation-building, and shall ensure the fundamental 
equality before the law of women and men.
This proposed bill seeks to abate prostitution, which is becoming more rampant, 
continues to be a menace to society, violating the rights of more women and children. It 
provides that a woman, man or child used, employed or exploited for another person's 
sexual gratification or pleasure, and for the monetary gain or profit of others shall be 
treated as victims of prostitution. It also imposes penalties on perpetrators and provides 
protective measures and support services for its victims.
In view thereof, the early passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session
S E N A T E
SB. 165
BILLS *
Introduced by Senator Poe
AN ACT
SUPPORTING THE PRODUCTION OF PHILIPPINE INDEPENDENT FILMS BY 
PROVIDING INCENTIVES TO FILMMAKERS WHO ARE GIVEN HONORS IN 
NOTABLE INTERNATIONAL FILM COMPETITIONS
Explanatory Note
The 1987 Philippine Constitution encourages the creation and promotion of outstanding 
and creative Filipino films.
• 
Article XIV, Section 14 provides that “The State shall foster the preservation, 
enrichment, and dynamic evolution of a Filipino national culture based on the principle in 
unity in diversity on a climate of free artistic and intellectual expression.”
• Article XIV, Section 15 states that “Arts and letters shall enjoy the patronage of the State. 
The State shall converse, promote, and popularize the nation’s historical and cultural 
heritage and resources, as well as artistic creations.”
The film industry is a potent tool for information gathering, dissemination and 
communication and as a catalyst for public opinion. It is a medium that projects a citizen’s love 
for art as well as a mirror of our rich culture and a Filipino identity. Films are part of our Cultural 
heritage, no doubt. Tey are essential part of what our Constitution recogn&es as artistic and 
historic wealth—again, it is wealth for our culture and of our heritage.
In recent years, the production of independent films by our esteemed Filipino filmmakers has 
been flourishing. In fact, several cinematic works were critically acclaimed while actors and 
directors had already been recognized in the international arena, including the prestigious Cannes 
International Film Festival, Venice International Film Festival and the British Independent Film 
Awards, as well as appearances in Toronto, Utah, Brussels, New York, Warsaw and London. 
Brillante Mendoza is one of the most celebrated Filipino film directors, being awarded as Best 
Director (Prix de la mise en scene) for his 2009 film “Kinatay” in the Cannes Film Festival and 
a flurry of honors in the global film stage under his belt.
Last May 2016. Jaclyn Jose starred in Brillante Mendoza’s Palme d’Or- nominated film 
“Ma’Rosa” where she won the Cannes Film Festival Award for Best Actress. Jose was the first 
Southeast Asian to be conferred with the award.
For its part, the Philippines, through the annual Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film 
Festival and other indie film festivals that screens short films and full;-length titles, has its fair 
share in encouraging the creation of locally produced independent films. These efforts by the 
Cultural Center of the Philippines put Philippine cinemas back to their glory days. Recently, big 
names in the movie industry were drawn to Cinemalaya, like Nora Aunor who joins for the first 
time.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF TH E 
REPUBLIC O F TH E PH ILIPPIN ES 
First Regular Session
SENATE 
S. No. 
4 6 4
( f t l t u  I 
I - '  
: t  r 
• 
r r t . - '’ U
'U. 
Ill 19 
All :19
,r> : ; ' ; i \  .
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
TO  
EXPEDITE 
AND 
STREAM LINE 
TH E 
APPLICATIO N  
PROCESS 
FOR 
SECURING BUILDING PERM ITS AND CERTIFICA TES O F OCCUPANCY, 
AM ENDING FO R TH E PURPOSE CERTAIN PROVISIONS O F REPUBLIC ACT 
NO. 6541, O TH ERW ISE KNOWN AS TH E NATIONAL BUILDING CODE O F TH E 
PH ILIPPIN ES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Republic Act No. 65411 otherwise known as the National Building Code of the Philippines provides 
for all buildings and structures a framework of minimum standards and requirements by guiding, 
regulating, and controlling their location, siting, design, quality of materials, construction, use, 
occupancy, and maintenance, including their environment, utilities, fixtures, equipment, and 
mechanical electrical, and other systems and installations. This is in fulfillment of the State’s duty and 
responsibility to identify and oversee the methods and/or requirements for the safe construction of all 
buildings and structures in the country.
A building pennit is one basic requirement before one can start with the construction of a building or 
structure whether for residential, commercial or industrial use. On the other hand, a certificate of 
occupancy is a certification issued after construction and inspection of the building and/or structure, to 
attest to the fact that the same is built in accordance with approved standards and the same is ready 
and safe for occupancy already. It is well-known fact that perennial problems in the tedious and 
burdensome process of securing building pennits as well as certificates of occupancy have inevitably 
brought about undue delays and has fostered and allowed corruption to persist.
In order to rectify this unfortunate situation, this measure seeks to amend the existing national 
building code to make the process of securing building permits and certificates of occupancy more 
efficient and more predictable by putting in place stricter provisions on the time frame for processing 
and approval thereof and amending the appeals process as well as the imposition of penalties on 
erring officials.
In view of the foregoing, the immediate passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
ANTONIO/SONNY”IF.r
Senator
[?. TRILLANES IV
Republic Act No. 6541 http://www.chanrobles.eom/republicactno6541.htm #.VW p5Ds-qqko
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E  
S.B. No. 
2BS
INDEX
BILLS
Introduced by Senator Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III
AN ACT
AMENDING SECTIONS 99(B), 100, AND 101 OF CHAPTER II, 
TITLE III, ESTATE AND DONOR’S TAXES, OF THE 
NATIONAL INTERNAL REVENUE CODE OF 1997 AS 
AMENDED, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Taxation, aside from its basic function to raise the revenues needed 
for government operations, can also be used as a tool for sharing wealth, 
effecting a more equitable distribution of resources with the aim of 
minimizing the gap between the rich and the poor. Giving of gifts 
between family members and loved ones is a gesture that naturally flows 
from the love and affection that exist among themselves. But, donating 
to strangers is hardly a natural process.
Under the current provision of the Tax Code, donation to strangers 
is taxed at 30% of its market value. 
This prohibitive rate is a 
disincentive to the prospective donors. In order to encourage the sharing 
of excess wealth by the haves to the have-nots, there is a need to reduce 
the current 30% donor’s tax rate to the minimum rate of 2% based on the 
current donor’s tax table.
The past disasters that wreaked havoc to our country have 
revealed the slow pace in the release of donated relief goods from 
foreign donors due to bureaucratic red tapes in securing tax and duty 
exemption certificates from the concerned government agencies. The 
current codal provisions exempting donations from the payment of tax 
are confined to donee institutions such as charitable, religious, social 
welfare and the like, and nothing to individual victims of natural and
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session
S E N A T E  
S.B.No. 2 0 9
DATE
Introduced by Senator Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel HI
AN ACT
CREATING TWO ADDITIONAL BRANCHES OF THE 
METROPOLITAN TRIAL COURT WITH SEATS AT MALABON
CITY, METRO MANILA IN THE NATIONAL CAPITAL 
JUDICIAL REGION, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SECTION 
27 OF BATAS PAMBANSA BLG. 129, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS
THE JUDICIARY REORGANIZATION ACT OF 1980, AS
AMENDED, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR
EXPLANATORY NOTE
In a society that looks upon the judiciary as the bulwark of rights 
and liberties,1 it is imperative that we establish the correct and sustainable 
infrastructure to guarantee that our people are able to obtain redress in a 
speedy and efficient manner. It cannot be denied that our courts are 
clogged with numerous cases, thereby causing unneeded delays in the 
administration of justice.
An example is the Metropolitan Trial Court (MeTC) in Malabon 
City, for which there are two (2) branches. The Malabon MeTC has a total 
combined caseload of 2,031 as of March 2015. This translates to an 
average caseload of 1,015 per branch per year and exceeds the 
manageable caseload of 500 for first level courts by a staggering 515 
cases per branch.2 To address this inundation of cases in a developing city 
like Malabon, the creation of two branches of the MeTC is therefore 
necessary.
With the passage of this bill, it is my hope that soon, no Filipino 
will be denied justice simply due to the delay in the disposition of their
cases.
AQUILI
KOKO” PIMENTEL HI
'Bemas, The 1987 Constitution of the Philippines: A Commentary
2 Office of the Court Administrator, Supreme Court
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
PUiUr
f ItieP't'rrnl.ir^i
'16 
JUL 21 
A 10:49
S E N A T E
S. B. No. 
746
h i : I 
J
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT
INSTITUTING THE BOY SCOUTS OF THE PHILIPPINES CHARTER, DEFINING 
ITS OBJECTIVES, POWER AND FUNCTIONS, REPEALING FOR THE PURPOSE 
COMMONWEALTH ACT NO. I l l ,  AS AMMENDED
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Scouting, or the skill of scout craft, is one of the strongest m eans of prom oting 
physical, moral, spiritual and social grow th in our children and youth. As a tool to 
develop various holistic traits in our children and youth - from m oral values and civic 
consciousness to environm ent protection and civic responsibility, this bill aims to 
reorganize the Boy Scouts of the Philippines in order to better serve its purpose.
The 1987 Constitution encourages rearing our children and youth tow ards civic 
consciousness and m oral values so that they may be productive and patriotic m embers 
of society. (Section 13, Article II) In this regard, this bill seeks to reorganize and 
restructure the governm ent entity created under C om m onw ealth Act No. I l l ,  as 
am ended, that w ould handle such a crucial role in m olding and upbringing our 
children and the youth. In this bill, the new  acting entity, the Boy Scouts of the 
Philippines, along w ith its powers, functions and duties will be redefined so that our 
Scouts may have a formal and organized corporation that is more attuned to the times 
and adapted to grow ing challenges they face.
A ttem pts to form ulate an organized law for such purpose has existed since the 
8fl1 Congress, but this bill seeks to install a m ore concrete institution in order that the 
Boy Scouts of the Philippines may be more developed to achieve its goals in the 
guidance and moral, civic and social developm ent of our children and youth in this 
rapidly changing world.
In light of the foregoing and for better governm ent service to our children and 
youth in the form  of a more organized Scouts Philippines, the passage of this bill is 
earnestly sought.
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES )
First Regular Session)
SENATE 
SENATE BILL NO.
DATE:
BILLS & iNDEX
INTRODUCED BY SENATOR JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO
AN ACT CREATING THE DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SETTLEMENT AND 
URBAN DEVELOPMENT, DEFINING ITS MANDATES, POWERS AND 
FUNCTIONS, PROVIDING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The 1987 Constitution, Article XIII, Section 9 provides:
"Sec. 9. The State shall, by law, and or the common good, undertake in 
cooperation with the private sector, a continuing program, of urban land reform and 
housing which will make available at affordable cost decent housing and basic services 
to underprivileged and homeless citizens in urban centers and resettlement areas. It 
shall also promote adequate employment opportunities to such citizens. In the 
implementation of such program the State shall respect the rights of small property 
owners. "
Housing is a basic need of every individual and the mandate of the 
Constitution is firm and clear as to the importance of housing and urban 
development. However, it is daunting to know that despite the hiunongous task, the 
core legislation that creates a national policy-making body vested with the power to 
address and give high priority to the housing sector holistically is lacking. It is the 
opporhme time that we take into consideration the creation of a single department 
that will focus solely on the management of housing and urban development, 
concentrating on access to and affordability of this very basic human need for 
shelter.
Through this proposed legislation, it is with great optimism that the 
escalating housing backlog and the institutional weakening of housing agencies will 
be effectively prioritized and resolved.
The Department shall be created through the consolidation of the Housing 
and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC) and the Housing and 
Land Use Regulatory Board (HLURB).
[> a g e I 1
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
)
J ’ » 
( 
t' i ( ( .
-l 
(if f!),
,I'r) ,1111 ,)y !’7;16
SENATE 
S. No. 
t) JL S
’n  '
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
ESTABLISHING VETERANS MEMORIAL MEDICAL CENTERS IN LUZON, 
VISAYAS AND MINDANAO
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Article XVI Section 7 of the 1987 Constitution expressly declares that the State shall provide 
immediate and adequate care, benetlts, and other forms of assistance to our veterans. With 
majority of them being elderly, sick, underprivileged, disabled, and poor, the Government 
should focus on programs directed to improving their health conditions.
The Veterans Memorial Medical Center was constnjeted by virtue of United States (US) 
Public Law 865 of July 1, 1948, as gift of the US to the Filipino people. It was further 
mandated to be the primary medical facility for the hospitalization and medieal care of 
veterans and their dependents, pursuant to the aforementioned Constitutional provision.
Nevertheless, sueh hereulean undertaking cannot be accomplished by a single hospital, which 
serves the needs of tens of thousands of Filipino veterans all over the eountry. It is therefore 
imperative that we honor and pay tribute to the sacrifiees of our veterans and their dependents 
by affording them adequate, accessible and quality medieal treatment. Hence, the 
establishment of additional Veterans Memorial Medical Centers in Luzon, Visayas and 
Mindanao is imperative.
In view of the foregoing, the immediate passage of this measure is earnestly sought.
A N T Q ^lS ^^^si^^N Y ”  FC ^^R H ^AN ^!
'  
Senator
“ ii 
($ i(if»  o f lh r.(5 '‘T i rl.’.' y
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
]
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
]
First Regular Session 
]
SENATE 
s.B. No. 9 9 5
’16 AUG -8 P1 :39
I W '
In tro d u ce d  by SEN. WIN GATCHALIAN
AN ACT
REGULATING THE PLACEMENT AND CONTENT OF BILLBOARDS 
INCLUDING THEIR SUPPORT STRUCTURES
) 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
,
Section 9, Article 2 of the 1987 Constitution provides that: “The State shall 
promote a ju st and dynamic social order that will ensure the prosperity and 
independence of the nation and free the people from poverty through policies that 
provide xxx an improved quality of life for all.” The growing num ber and sizes of 
the billboards in EDSAr and practically along every major metropolitan 
thoroughfare with high vehicular and pedestrian traffic has become a serious 
concern — for the life and limb of commuters and pedestrians and the dizzying 
contents of some billboards that distract commuters, 
j
(
Apparently, the advertisers believe that the larger m d more overwhelming 
the size of the billboard, Ihe better it would be for promoting their products. 
While that may benefit the advertisers, the billboards Toisted on the hapless 
commuters actually degrade the quality of the streetscape experience. The road- 
right-of-way (RROW, commonly termed the “street”) is public domain and for the
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session
))
‘ 
( § l f i r t  of f h p /'?’,' r r p t I f  1/
■16 
,IUL 21 
P 2  5 2
SENATE 
s .No. 
8 2 7
Ul ' i • 
"V;
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto
AN ACT
PROVIDING THE DIRECT REMITTANCE TO THE HOST LOCAL GOVERNMENT 
UNITS OF THEIR FORTY PERCENT (40%) SHARE DERIVED FROM THE 
NATIONAL WEALTH AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SECTION 293 OF 
REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7160, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT 
CODE OF 1991
Explanatory Note
As mandated in the Local Government Code, local government units (LGUs) are entitled 
to forty percent (40%) of the gross collections derived by the national government from the 
utilization and development of the national wealth by private persons or entities. These monies 
are used by the LGUs in financing development and livelihood projects. Unfortunately, such 
projects may be put on hold due to the delay in the release of the LGUs’ share by the national 
government.
The present guidelines and procedures for the release of LGU shares require that the 
revenue-collecting agencies and national government agencies concerned submit to the 
Department of Budget and Management various documents before the shares are released to the 
host LGUs concerned. Hence, the evaluation of documents and the status of the government’s 
overall cash position can cause the delay. 1
This proposal seeks to amend Section 293 of the Code to expedite the release of LGUs’ 
shares by mandating that the forty percent (40%) share pertaining to the host LGUs be remitted 
directly to them. On the other hand, the sixty percent (60%) share of the national government 
shall be paid to the national treasury.
In view of the foregoing, the immediate approval of this measure is hereby requested.
RAL
n y m a
1 DOF-DBM-DILG-DENR Joint Circular No. 2009-1 March 31, 2009
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
’flliir *  nMt’ r 
' . . ‘ .'y
'16 JUL 21 
P3 -23
SENATE
s .No. 843
in ?
'V:
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto
AN ACT
PROHIBITING TELECOMMUNICATION COMPANIES FROM IMPOSING AN 
EXPIRATION PERIOD ON THE VALIDITY OF PREPAID CALL AND TEXT CARDS 
AND THE FORFEITURE OF LOAD CREDITS THEREOF
Explanatory Note1
In 2013, the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) reported that there are 
approximately 100 million mobile phone subscriptions in the country; around 80% or 80 million 
of which are prepaid.2 Moreover, fixed telephone line, better known as landline, can now come 
in prepaid. The large number of prepaid subscriptions has earned the Philippines the top spot on 
the world-wide list of countries with the most prepaid users. Another report projected that mobile 
subscriptions in the country will reach 117 million this year.3
Indeed, the prepaid call and text industry in the country has evolved tremendously. From 
an era when prepaid load credit can only be purchased through large-denomination prepaid 
cards, small-value prepaid cards and electronic loads are now readily available. Anyone can now 
purchase load credit that suits ones’ budget at any given time. This development in the prepaid 
industry has certainly benefited millions of Filipinos. By making prepaid load credits affordable, 
our fellowmen are able to connect easily with their loved ones here and abroad.
In the recent past, however, there have been rampant complaints that prepaid subscribers 
do not get the full value of the load credits that they paid for because of the expiration of prepaid 
call and text cards and forfeiture of unutilized load credits. Currently, the expiration period of 
prepaid call and text cards is two years while load credit’s expiry ranges from 3 days to 120 days 
depending on the denomination. This means that unused prepaid cards will no longer work after 
two years and that unutilized load credits will be forfeited after their corresponding expiration 
period; hence, a waste of prepaid subscriber’s money and additional income for the 
telecommunication company.
It is therefore the intent of this bill entitled the “Prepaid Load Protection Act of 2016" to 
make the imposition of expiration period on the validity of prepaid call and text cards and 
forfeiture of load credits prohibited acts with corresponding penalties. This will ensure that every 
peso spent to purchase load credits are saved and usable until the day the credits are fully 
consumed.
In the liglit of the foregoing, immediate passage of the bill is earnestly sought.
SBN 3322 filed by Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago during the 14 Congress was used as reference for this bill.
The total number of prepaid subscribers was approximated from the reports of two (2) leading telecommunication 
companies: Smart and Globe, published at www.abs-cbn.com.
3 
See 
"M obile 
phone 
subscribers 
to 
hit 
117M 
by 
2016". 
Accessed 
at 
http://news.abs- 
cbn.eom/business/04/09/12/ph-mobile-phone-subscribers-hit-117m-2016 on June 20, 2016.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
of H je^ » rtc)afij
SENATE
S.B. No. 
723
*16 JUL20 P5:20
R F ('rJ  V I B Y :
Introduced by SENATOR CYNTHIA A. VILLAR
AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR A  MAGNA CARTA OF STUDENTS
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Section 13, Article II of the 1987 Constitution provides that 'The State 
recognizes the vital role of the youth in nation-building and shall promote and protect 
their physical, moral, spiritual, intellectual and social well-being. It shall inculcate in 
the youth patriotism, nationalism and encourage their involvement in public and civic 
affairs. Likewise, enshrined in the Constitution that the State shall give priority to 
education, among others, to foster patriotism and nationalism, accelerate social 
progress, and promote total human liberation and development.
In line with the foregoing constitutional provisions, this Magna Carta for 
students is being proposed to acknowledge and protect the rights and welfare of the 
students.
Students are vital component of the society as they comprise the new breed 
of leaders, professionals, and intellectuals that will continue the progress of one’s 
nation and form the next generation. In 2014, there were about 3.5 Million students 
who enrolled in both public and private higher education institutions; however, only a 
measly 560,000 of them were able to graduate1. This bill recognizes the importance 
of education, particularly higher education among the youth. As such, this measure 
guarantees the equal access to education of all; and denial from admission or 
availment of 
financial aid, scholarship and other educational privileges and 
opportunities of a student on account of his or her 
physical disability, socio­
economic status, political belief and affiliation, and the like is prohibited.
1 http://www.ched.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2014/tem p/1003/hom e/Higher% 20Education% 20Data%  
202014%20-%20Public%20and%20Private%20HEIs.pdf
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
6 ' 
> 
r
 I  i  
1 ■
•16 JIJL21 
P3--31
SENATE 
s.No. 
^ 5 4
i i V 1
,>V;
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto
AN ACT
GRANTING EMPLOYEES THREE DAYS PAID 
RELATED ACTIVITIES OF THEIR CHILDREN
Explanatory Note
LEAVE TO ATTEND SCHOOL-
Article XV of the 1987 Constitution recognizes the Filipino family as the foundation of 
the nation and underscores the importance of strengthening its solidarity and actively promoting 
its total development. To wit:
(a) The right of spouses to found a family in accordance with their religious convictions 
and the demands of responsible parenthood;
(b) The right of children to assistance, including proper care and nutrition, and special 
protection from all forms of neglect, abuse, cruelty, exploitation, and other conditions 
prejudicial to their development;
(c) The right of the family to a family living wage and income; and
(d) The right of families or family associations to participate in the planning and 
implementation of policies and programs that affect them.
It is in this light that this bill is put forward. This proposed measure seeks to grant 
employed parents or legal guardians of schoolchildren three (3) days paid leave to attend school- 
related activities. It aims to encourage parental involvement in the educational system and grant 
employed parents and guardians who are unable to meet with educators because of work conflict, 
the right to an allotment of time during the school year to attend educational or behavioral 
conferences of their children.
The bill covers employees who have rendered service for at least six (6) consecutive 
months and whose child/children are attending public or private pre-school, elementary, and 
secondary schools. The child or children can be biological, adopted or foster child, a stepchild or 
a legal ward of the employee.
To deter the arbitrary use of the school visitation rights by employees, the bill requires 
that such leave can only be taken when the employee has exhausted all accrued vacation leave, 
personal leave, compensatory leave and any other leaves that may be granted except sick leave 
and disability leave.
• '^ 1 ’! j
t  I i i. ■1. ■( •
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES ) 
First Regular Session 
)
" 'flifirt ('I t' f /  ■ 
■ I M q
■ui 
I'lU') 
:!5
S. No.
SENATE
517
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillancs IV
AN ACT
AUTHORIZING GOVERNMENT HOSPITALS UNDER THE DEPARTMENT OF 
HEALTH (DOH) TO RETAIN AND UTILIZE ALL THEIR INCOME AND 
INTEREST DERIVED FROM DEPOSITS, FOR MAINTENANCE AND OTHER 
OPERATING EXPENSES, CAPITAL OUTLAYS AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Govemment hospitals, while receiving subsidy from the National Government, cannot utilize 
their income for their maintenance and other operating expenses. Similar to other income 
generating agencies of the govemment, these hospitals are required by law to remit their 
income back to the national treasury.
This practice of disallowing govemment hospitals from spending their income for MOOE 
limits the hospital's capability to expand and improve. It is precisely the primary reason that 
govemment hospitals fail to deliver quality and efficient basic health services for the people.
In view of this counterproductive system, this representation is filing this proposed measure 
to give more meaning to the autonomy of govemment hospitals in the area of physical and 
operational development. This can be achieved by granting them the authority to utilize their 
income for their maintenance and other operating expenses.
In view of the foregoing, the immediate approval of this measure is earnestly sought.
ANTONI® “SO rkY ” F. rRILLANES
' 
Senator
7^ 4—
P. rRILLANES
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
'16 
JUL21 
P3-.32
SENATE 
s. No. 
S 5 5
nv.cv
!tY;
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto
AN ACT
STRENGTHENING 
THE 
UTILIZATION 
OF 
INFORMATION 
AND 
COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY (ICT) IN ALL PUBLIC ELEMENTARY 
SCHOOLS AND HIGH SCHOOLS PROVIDING FUNDS THERFOR AND FOR OTHER 
PURPOSES
Explanatory Note
The advent of the internet can be likened to the invention of Guttenberg’s printing press. 
Similar to how the printing press ushered in the human race from the Dark Ages to the New Age, 
the internet is ushering humankind into a world unhampered by borders. Modem Information 
and Communication Technologies (ICT) such as Wi-Fi, mobile phones, computers, and laptops 
allow easier and faster access to timely information which is necessary in a rapidly globalizing 
and competitive world.
“(ICTs) greatly facilitate the acquisition and absorption of knowledge, offering 
developing countries unprecedented opportunities to enhance educational 
systems, improve policy formulation and execution, and widen the range of 
opportunities for business and the poor. One of the greatest hardships endured by 
the poor, and by many others who live in the poorest countries is their sense of 
isolation. The new communication technologies promise to reduce that sense of 
isolation, and to open access to knowledge in ways unimaginable not long ago. ”
World Bank (1998), The World Development 
Report quoted in Blurton, C., New Directions of 
ICT- Use in Education
In line with the goals set forth in the country’s K to 12 Program, particularly for the 
secondary level, the utilization of modem technology would better equip students with faculties 
necessary in preparation for tertiary education and for the increasingly competitive labor market.
As of School Year 2012-2013, the number of students enrolled in the country’s 38,659 
elementary public schools was at 13.3 million, while students enrolled in the 7,745 elementary 
private schools was at 1.2M1. Meanwhile, enrollment in the country’s 7,748 secondary public 
schools was at 5.6 million, and for the 5,130 secondary private schools it was at 1.4 million2. 
Many of the private schools in the country have long since supplemented classroom learning 
with ICT such as the use of computers and multimedia projectors for a more effective and 
efficient learning experience. They have also incorporated computer and internet education in 
their curricula while public schools have to wrestle with dated computers that are not even 
commensurate to the number of students enrolled in public schools.
Department of Education Basie Education Fact Sheet as of October 2013
2 Ibid.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
r
t(»t(.rr ..f til*
'16 JUL 18 P6--02
S E N A T E  
S. B. No. 
3 8 6
1>
In tro d u ced  by SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA
AN ACT RECOGNIZING SERIOUS PHYSICAL AND SEXUAL ABUSE AS 
GROUND FOR LEGAL SEPARATION, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE 
ARTICLE 55 (1) OF THE FAMILY CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES
Explanatory Note
This m easure seeks to recognize serious physical and sexual abuse as 
additional ground for legal separation under Article 55(1) of the Family 
Code of the Philippines. O ur current law considers only “repeated 
physical violence or grossly abusive conduct” as ground for legal 
separation.
To improve the plight of battered wives and help them  avoid further 
abuse, im m ediate passage of this bill is requested.
LOREN 1;¥GARDA
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
SENAT 
S. B. No.
f83
DATE
i
BILLS
Introduced by Senator Maria Lourdes Nancy S. Binay
AN ACT GRANTING INCENTIVES TO PUBLIC SCHOOL TEACHERS IN ALL 
LEVELS, INCLUDING STATE UNIVERSITIES AND COLLEGES, AND FOR OTHER
PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
At present, public school teachers receive minimum salary equivalent to salary grade 11, or 
Php 18,549.00. It is quite unfortunate that our public school teachers who are at the heart of 
our public school system are not being properly compensated for their hard work and 
dedication to the practice of their profession.
The proposed bill seeks to grant public school teachers incentives as a means to ease their 
financial situation and, more importantly, as a form of recognition of their value in the 
development of our nation. This is consistent with Section 5 (5), Article XIV of the 1987 
Philippine Constitution which states;
The State shall assign the highest budgetary priority to education and ensure that 
teaching will attract and retain its rightful share of the best available talents through 
adequate remuneration and other means of job satisfaction and fulfillment.
In view of the foregoing, the passage of this bill is earnestly recommended.
MARIA LOU
ANCY S. BINAY
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
SENATE
S.B. No. , * ^ 4 9
BILLS &
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "B am " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT INSTITUTIONALIZING A NATIONAL STRATEGY FOR PROMOTING INCLUSIVE BUSINESS 
MODELS FOR POVERTY REDUCTION, INCLUSIVE GROWTH AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT, AND
FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
In the recently concluded Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation or APEC Summit held in the 
Manila, we had the first ever high-level discussion on Inclusive Business, which promoted the idea of 
companies taking part in development, not just through philanthropy but also through their 
products and supply chains.
Under this inclusive business umbrella are social enterprises as well as large corporations 
that utilize their products, services, or even their supply chains to help poor communities create a 
sustainable industry and become financially successful.
This concept of business taking part in nation-building and social development is finally 
catching on and all over the world, allies in the fight against poverty have found an effective weapon 
-  conscientious entrepreneurship -  to beat poverty and create prosperity.
There is no better time than now to establish policies in support of this movement.
"Inclusive Business (IB)," as defined in this measure, refers to "a business approach that 
provides decent work and economic opportunities or relevant and affordable goods or services for 
poor and low income and/or marginalized sectors of society by making them part of the 
organization's core operations as producers, consumers, workers, owners or business partners, 
directly contributing to improved living standards, poverty reduction and systemic inclusion in a 
manner that is sustainable, in scale or scalable, and replicable."
The Inclusive Business Bill provides for the establishment of a national strategy for the 
promotion of Inclusive Businesses to be implemented by a new office, the Inclusive Business Center. 
The bill also provides policies for IB accreditation, and providing support and incentives for IBs and 
their community partners, including social enterprises.
A key strategy for providing sustainable livelihood and reducing poverty, especially in the 
countryside, is by integrating poor communities as suppliers of goods and/or services in the value 
chain of large businesses.
••Ww
. '^ 1
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E  
S.B. No. 4 2 0
Snv'Ax'
<(?H«cr I'f llif ^ r r tr t.i' U
•16 .lUL 19 AlO -1A
;i ■ 
'.Y:
In tro d u ced  by SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA
AN ACT PRESERVING THE COUNTRY’S TRADITIONAL FOLK ARTS AS 
PART OF ITS INTANGIBLE CULTURAL HERITAGE, AMENDING FOR THE 
PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8492, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE 
“NATIONAL MUSEUM ACT OF 1998” AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
Explanatory Note
Republic Act No. 8492, otherwise known as the National M useum Act of 1998 
was enacted into law last February 12, 1998. The law was enacted to re­
establish the National M useum ’s m andates to acquire, docum ent, preserve, 
exhibit and foster scholarly study and appreciation of works of arts, specim ens 
and historical artifacts. It also aim s to sustain the cultural development of the 
Filipino people through the preservation, enhancem ent and advancem ent of 
our natural culture, founded on the principle of unity in diversity through free 
artistic and intellectual expressions.
The conservation and transfer of cultural heritage in the Philippines has been 
expressed through the country’s various traditional folk arts, via its Manlilikha 
ng Bayan and Schools of Living Tradition program s. This follows the second 
approach advocated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and C ultural 
Organization (UNESCO) in ensuring the transm ission of such valuable 
knowledge to the younger generation.
This m easures seeks to am end Section 16 of Republic Act No. 8492 th at will 
require the regional m useum s to serve as venues in ensuring the conservation 
and preservation of the country’s traditional folk arts.
In view of the foregoing, the passage of the said m easure is earnestly requested.
iREN LEGARDA
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS
THE REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session
)
J3>pnatr
I’f tijp 
rrrtnrjj
'16 
JUL 18 
P6.-06
S E N A T E
S.B. NO. 393
R i:( K tV E I) BY;
In tro d u ced  by SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA
AN 
ACT 
STRENGTHENING THE 
PHILIPPINE 
COMPREHENSIVE 
POLICY ON HIV AND AIDS PREVENTION, TREATMENT, CARE, AND 
SUPPORT, REPEALING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 
8504, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS “THE PHILIPPINE AIDS PREVENTION 
AND CONTROL ACT OF 
1998”, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS 
THEREFOR
Explanatory Note
Amidst the continuous rise of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) 
infection, there is an urgent need for the government to reform its policy 
on the prevention and control of the disease through the passage of a 
new law. The Department of Health fears that the country’s total HIV 
infections could reach 133,000 in the next seven years unless the 
government undertakes measures to promote early detection, especially 
among the youth where the disease is spreading at a fast rate.
At present, the DOH has identified eight cities—Cebu, Cagayan de Oro, 
Puerto Princesa, Quezon City, Mandaue, Paranaque, Davao, and Makati, 
that have already breached the 5% threshold of HIV prevalence among 
men and transgender women. As determined by the United Nations, the 
5% threshold is considered as the threshold whereby a specific area shall 
be considered as suffering from a concentrated epidemic.
Among the important provisions of the proposed measure are the 
following:
• Inclusion of representatives from local communities, civil society 
organizations, and organizations of persons living with HIV in the 
Philippine National AIDS Council as part of a multi-sectoral approach 
in addressing the HIV epidemic;
• Requirement for local government units to implement a locally-based 
multi-sectoral response to HIV with LGUs authorized to utilize the 
Gender and Development (GAD) Funds and other sources of funding 
for HIV and AIDS education;
• In cases where a parent or legal guardian refuses to give their consent 
for any child below 15 years of age prior to testing, consent may be 
obtained from a licensed social worker in case the child is determined
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E
S.B. No.
15 ;
'oATJUiLiWffi P.
Hji WE: 
V
BY:
BILLS &
_________ Introduced by Senator JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO_________
AN ACT PROMOTING THE REVITALIZATION y REHABILITATION AND
MODERNIZATION OF THE PHILIPPINE NATIONAL RAILWAYS, 
AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF R.A. NO. 
4156 ENTITLED “AN ACT CREATING THE PHILIPPINE NATIONAL 
RAILWAYS, PRESCRIBING ITS POWERS, FUNCTIONS AND DUTIES, AND 
PROVIDING FOR THE NECESSARY FUNDS FOR ITS OPERATION
EXPLANATORY NOTE
On June 20 1964, Republic Act No. 4156 entitled, “An Act Creating 
the Philippine National Railways, Prescribing its Powers, Functions and 
Duties, and providing for the Necessary Funds for its Operation” was 
enacted. The said law created the Philippine National Railways (PNR), which 
also define it as a corporation that serves as the instrumentality of the 
government in providing a nation-wide railroad and transportation system.
On June 16, 2014, Republic Act 10638 was approved. This law 
extends PNR’s corporate existence for another 50 years. However, despite 
the grant of extension on its corporate life, the PNR is said to run a “loss 
leader” operation, that is, the more trips the train runs, the more losses it 
incur. This can be attributed to its purely manual operations as well as its 
aged and obsolete train system equipment and facilities, resulting to poor 
operating potentials and high leakage rate. For instance, for the first half of 
2014, PNR suffered a cash deficit of Php85,464,170.00, which translated to 
a monthly loss of Phpl3,244,028.00.1
This bill seeks to amend certain provisions of Republic Act No. 4156 
in 
order 
to 
adopt with 
the 
country’s 
present circumstances 
by 
institutionalizing the revitalization, rehabilitation and modernization of the 
Philippine National Railways.
In view of the foregoing, passage of the bill is earnestly sought.
JOSEPH VICTOR EJERCITO
1Data from Philippine National Railways
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S.B. No. 
654
of lhe^*< ‘ ' I n  ^
•16 JUL20 P3:00
!{i
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT
EXEMPTING FROM TAXES ALL DONATIONS, GRANTS OR GIFTS TO NON-STOCK AND 
NON-PROFIT EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The quest to improve the quality of education and improve the facilities of our 
schools and institutions is a collective effort that drav\/s like-minded advocates from 
government, civil society, and the private sector.
In many cases, the non-government sector is enthusiastic to assist the development 
of education in the Philippines with the hope that the next generation of well-educated 
Filipinos hold the key to leveling up the country and finally putting an end to longstanding 
issues that have plagued our nation, such as hunger, poverty, public transport, and even the 
patronage system that is entrenched in our culture.
It is our responsibility to encourage this enthusiasm and incentivize donations to 
non-stock and non-profit educational institutions in order to further our cause for improved 
education and educational facilities across the country.
While non-stock and non-profit educational institutions benefit from tax 
exemptions, donors aren't granted similar incentives. This measure extends tax exemptions 
to donors, mandating that all contributions to non-stock and non-profit educational 
institutions be tax-exempt and deductible from their taxable income.
Through this bill, citizens with a heart for education can opt to donate hard-earned 
money, property, or other assets to the cause of education in lieu of contributing tax 
payments to the State.
Let's embolden Filipinos to take a more active role in nation-building and have a 
choice in who benefits from their contributions. Together, all sectors of society can further 
the cause of quality education in the Philippines and produce intelligent, skillful, and 
conscientious young Filipinos.