bettergovph/raw-philippine-data huggingface dataset:
FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
S E N A T E  
Senate Bill No. 
136 
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS N. PANGILINAN 
EXPLANA TORY NOTE 
The Philippines and China are neighboring countries that share a 
friendship dating back to ancient times. This friendly association has brought 
about a strong and increasing presence of the Filipino-Chinese community in the 
country, 
Their presence in the Philippines has contributed to the increase in 
economic and trade relations between these two countries. Further, the various 
businesses of the Filipino-Chinese community in the Philippines account for 
employment generation to the great advantage of our labor force. 
Their 
economic contribution, thus, cannot be quantified in terms of monetary benefits 
alone. 
Aside from economic favor, cultural enrichment has likewise been derived 
from long association and assimilation with the Chinese people. Cultural and 
social assimilation has resulted in the recognition of numerous Chinese cultural 
customs, foremost of which is in the Chinese New Year, which is celebrated by 
many Filipino and Filipino-Chinese with the same festivity as the Chinese 
Nationals. 
By setting aside the day when Chinese New 'fear falls to commemorate 
the occasion which both Chinese and most of Filipinos celebrate, we would be 
enhancing the mutually beneficial relations between us and furthering the amity 
forged between these two countries. 
In view of foregoing, immediate passage of this bill is earnestly sought. 


FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC) 
First Regular Session 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
SENATE 
SENATE BILL No. 
Introduced by SENATOR FRANCIS N. PANGILINAN 
AN ACT 
DECLARING CHINESE NEW YEAR OF EACH YEAR AS A SPECIAL 
WORKING HOLIDAY AS A SIGN OF GOODWIL AND AMITY BETWEEN 
THE PHILIPPINES AND CHINA 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in ConQress assembled: 
1 
SECTION 1. 
In recognition of the immeasurable contribution of the Filipino 
2 
Chinese community in our country and in order to further strengthen the Filipino- 
3 
Chinese amity, the Chinese New Year of each year is hereby declared as a special 
4 
working Holiday throughout the entire Philippines. 
5 
6 
SEC. 2. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) calendar days after its publication 
publication in one (1) national newspaper of general circulation. 
7 
Approved,
FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
1 
7 JK -3 
!6G:o4 
First Regular Session 
) 
S E N A T E  
Senate Bill NO. 6 6 3 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Republic Act No. 6657, also known as the Comprehensive Agrarian 
Reform Law, Section 3 (c) defines agricultural land as "land devoted to 
agricultural activity and not classified as mineral, forest, residential, commercial 
or industrial land. 
The comprehensive agrarian reform program is easily circumvented due 
to the very narrow definition of agricultural land which specifies that the land must 
be "devoted to agricultural activity". Also, lands already coveted by the program 
are easily reclassified and converted into non-agricultural uses by simply allowing 
agricultural land to stay idle and non-productive even if irrigated or potentially 
irrigable. 
This bill broadens the definition of agricultural land by including those 
lands which were previously devoted to agricultural activities but which were left 
idle by their owners and lands which are irrigated and potentially irrigable as 
defined by Administrative Order No. 20 of the President, Series of 1992. 
In view of the foregoing, the early passage of this bill is earnestly 
requested. 


FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
1 
7 ,JK-3 iii IM 
First Regular Session 
) 
S E N A T E  
Senate Bill No. 663 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
AMENDING REPUBLIC ACT NO. 6657, ALSO KNOWN AS THE 
COMPREHENSIVE AGRARIAN REFORM LAW, SECTION 3 (C) 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representafives of the Philippines 
in Congress assembled: 
Section 1. Section 3 (c) of Republic Act No. 6657 is hereby amended to 
read as follows: 
"Section 3. Definitions. - For the purpose of this Act, unless 
the context indicates otherwise: 
xxx 
(c) Agricultural Land refers to land devoted to agricultural activity as 
defined in this Act and not classified as mineral, forest, residential, 
commercial or industrial land, AND ALL THOSE PREVIOUSLY USED 
FOR AGRICULTURAL ACTIVITIES WHICH 
HAVE NOT BEEN 
RECLASSIFIED INTO OTHER USES, PROVIDED, THEY ARE 
IRRIGATED OR POTENTIALLY IRRIGABLE LANDS WITH FIRM 
FUNDING COMMITMENTS FOR REHABILITATION. 
Section 2. Separability Clause. - If any provision or part hereof is held 
invalid or unconstitutional, the remainder or the law of the provision not otherwise 
affected shall remain valid and subsisting. 
Section 3. Repealing Clause. - Any law, presidential decree or issuance, 
executive order, letter of instruction, administrative order, rule or regulation 
contrary to, or inconsistent with, the provisions of this Act is hereby repealed, 
modified, or amended accordingly. 
Section 4. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (1 5) days 
after its publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
S.B. No. 397 
Introduced by Senator JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Civil Code, Article 1991, provides: 
“Article 1991 -The depositor’s heir, who in good faith, may 
have sold the thing, which he or she did not know was deposited, 
shall only be bound to return the price he may have received or to 
assign his right of action against the buyer in case the price has 
not been paid by him.” 
The law incorrectly uses the term “depositor’s”. It was intended to apply where 
the depository dies and the thing deposited is left with his or her heir who sells it 
in good faith. It limits the heir’s liability to the depositor. 
To give Article 1991 its desired effect, “depositor’s’’ must be replaced with 
“depositary’s”. 
In view of the foregoing, early passage of this bill is earnestly sought. 
U 
Senator 


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FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
1 
First Regular Session 
) 
JUL. -2 j )  1 :~! 8 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
S.B. No. 397 
Introduced by Senator JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
AMENDING ARTICLE 1991 OF R.A. NO. 386, 
ALSO KNOWN AS THE CIVIL CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES, 
Be it enacfed by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines 
in Congress assembled: 
Secfion f. The Civil Code, Article 1991, is hereby amended to read as follows: 
“Art. 1991. The [depositor‘s] DEPOSITARY’S heir who in 
good faith may have sold the thing which he did not know 
was deposited, shall only be bound to return the price 
he may have received or to assign his right of action against 
the buyer in case the price has not been paid by him.” 
1) 
Sec. 2. Separability Clause. - If any provision or part hereof, is held invalid or 
unconstitutional, the remainder of the taw or the provision not otherwise affected shall 
remain valid and subsisting. 
Sec. 3. Repealing Ctause. - Any law, presidential decree, or issuance, executive 
order, letter of instruction, administrative order, rule or regulation contrary to, or 
inconsistent with, the provisions of this Act is hereby repealed, modified, or amended 
accordingly. 
Sec. 4, Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its 
publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
First Regular Session 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
SENATE 
s. NO. 836 
~ 
~ 
~ 
Introduced by Senator Biazon 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
A clean, honest and efficient bureaucracy is the key to the provision of good government 
that is the central role of the state. Article 11, Section 27 of the 1987 Constitution provides, “The 
State shall maintain honesty and integrity in the public service and take positive and effective 
measures against graft and corruption.” 
Graft and corruption in government imposes an informal tax burden that detracts from the 
efficiency of private sector enterprises and private markets. It is an insidious influence that tears 
at the moral fabric of the nation and leaves debilitating effects on productive economic 
undertakings. 
The drive against graft and corruption in government however is burdened with a serious 
incentive incompatibility. This is the fact that those who have knowledge of any acts of 
malfeasance by government officials and employees are deterred from reporting such acts 
because of their vulnerability to subsequent acts of reprisal. 
This bill addresses the situation with a provision that will grant rewards and provide 
protection to individuals who will report acts of malfeasance in government offices. 
In view of the foregoing, the immediate approval of this bill is earnestly requested. 


FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
) 
7 J& -3 f'3 125 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
1 
SENATE 
4 
Introduced by Senator Rodolfo G. Biazon 
AN ACT 
PROVIDING THE GRANTING OF REWARDS AND PROTECTION TO THOSE WHO 
WILL 
REPORT 
MALFEASANCE 
IN 
GOVERNMENT 
OFFICES 
AND 
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
assembled: 
SECTION 1. Declaration of Policy. - The State shall maintain honesty and integrity in 
the public service and take positive and effective measures against graft and corruption. 
SEC. 2. Reward and Protection. - Any government employee who will report any act of 
malfeasance committed by his superior or any of his co-employees shall be granted a reward or 
incentive in terms of cash, bonus or promotion in rank, if qualified, and shall be provided 
protection against any retaliation from erring officials or employees. 
SEC. 3. Zmplementing Rules. - The Civil Service Commission shall issue the necessary 
rules and regulations for the effective implementation of this Act which shall include appropriate 
rewards or incentives. 
SEC. 4. Appropriations. - The amount necessary for the effective implementation of this 
Act shall be charged to the appropriations of the Civil Service Commission under the current 
General Appropriations Act. Thereafter, such amount as may be necessary for the continuous 
implementation of this Act shall be included in the annual General Appropriations Act. 
SEC. 5. Repealing Clause. - All laws, decrees, orders, rules and regulations or parts 
thereof inconsistent with this Act are hereby repealed or 3 amended accordingly. 
SEC. 6. Effectivity Clause. -This Act shall take effect upon its approval. 
Approved,
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
A few years ago, majority of our legislators were convinced that the cost of 
power will significantly go down with the passage of R.A. 9136 or the Electric 
Power industry Reform Act (EPIRA). 
Today, power consum'ers suffer under the ever-increasing cost of 
electricity. Now, in the House of Representatives, the very same proponents of 
R.A. 9136 are presently pushing for the amendment of the EPIRA law due to the 
continuous and rapid rise in the price of power, which may reach unmanageable 
levels. 
Thus, it has become obvious that this law is flawed. Our leadership was 
pushed by external pressure to fast track an ill-conceived piece of legislation. 
The revelation of the former Administrator of the National Electrification 
Administration that a P2.5Million "payola" to Congressmen was given to ensure 
the passage of EPIRA is a serious charge. Earlier, it was reported that some 
legislators allegedly admitted that they had been coerced into approving a half- 
baked law, leaving several contentious issued unresolved. 
If these charges are true, then we have, indeed, reached our lowest point 
in the annals of Congress, where laws are dictated by foreign agencies like the 
Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and now, by financial consideration. We 
must ease the burden on the masses and prevent their sufferings under behest 
and unjust laws. 
over again and scrutinize all provisions that burden the people. 
This bill seeking to repeal the EPIRA is the only recourse for us to start all 
In view of the foregoing considerations early passage of this bill is 
earnestly sought. 


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OFFi'iCi; <,j;~ > 
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FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
1 
First Regular Session 
) 
7 JUI.. -2 :\ ; :;! 
+P. 
'P 
k 
tillCEtVED IW; ~- 
_"I 
S E N A T E  
Senate Bill NO. 3 0 8 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
REPEALING REPUBLIC ACT NUMBERED 9136, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS 
THE ELECTRIC POWER INDUSTRY REFORM ACT OF 2001 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. 
Any provision of law to the contrary notwithstanding, 
Republic Act Numbered 9136 entitled "An Act Ordaining Reforms in the Electric 
Power Industry, Amending for the Purpose Certain Laws and for Other Purposes" 
is hereby repealed. 
SEC 2. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after the completion of 
its publication. 
Approved,
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FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
1 
First Regular Session 
) 
7 JUL -2 ;',,:,:I 
'
s
 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JlNGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The flow of public information in the Philippines is very much limited to 
those areas which have adequate communications systems. This however 
should not deprive those residing in the rural countryside from gaining access to 
information on government-sponsored projects. 
It is a must therefore that 
government-owned-and-controlled corporations and agencies set aside part of 
their advertising expenditures to advertise in regional, provincial, municipal and 
city publications and radio stations. 
information system to accommodate more of the Filipinos' public opinion. 
This bill seeks to address the need to improve on the existing public 
In view of the foregoing, passage of this bill is earnestly recommended.. 
u e n a t o r  


FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
1 
7 JUL -2 
I\/') 
(1'1 
First Regular Session 
) 
S E N A T E  
Senate Bill No. 326 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
REQUIRING GOVERNMENT-OWNED AND-CONTROLLED CORPORATIONS 
(GOCCS) AND AGENCIES TO ASSIGN TWENTY-FIVE PERCENT OF THEIR 
ADVERTISING EXPENDITURES FOR ADVERTISEMENT IN THE REGIONAL, 
PROVINCIAL, MUNICIPAL AND 
CITY PUBLICATIONS AND 
RADIO 
STATIONS 
Be if enacted by fhe Senafe and House of Represenfatives of fhe Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Declaration of Policy. It is the policy of the State to promote 
the basic rights to public information. The State also recognizes the 
indispensable role of the local mass media, i.e. regional, provincial, municipal 
and city publications and radio stations, in promoting national interest by 
disseminating information and initiating public opinion. 
SEC 2. Advertising by Governmenf-owned and Controlled Corporations 
and Agencies. All government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs) and 
agencies are hereby required to assign at least twenty-five percent (25%) of their 
advertising expenditures for advertisement in regional, provincial, municipal and 
city publications and radio stations. 
SEC 3. 
EFecfivify. 
This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after 
publication in at least two (2) newspapers in general circulation. 
Approved,
FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
-7 
JUL -3 P I  :ti2 
First Regular Session 
) 
Introduced by Senator Ramon Bong Revilla, Jr. 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
In 1976, forested land was 2.37 million hectares. By 2001, this figure was down 
to 1.75 million hectares, a decrease of 35%. Such statistics are indicative of the continued 
degradation and depletion of our country's forest products, of which trees are an 
important component. 
This bill seeks to partially address the problem of our dwindling national 
resources by obligating local governments to plant trees along national and local 
highways. 
In view of the foregoing, early passage of this bill is earnestly requested 


FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
7 JUL -3 
P I  :dz 
First Regular Session 
1 
SENATE 
S.B. NO. 785 
Introduced by Senator Ramon Bong Revilla, Jr. 
AN ACT 
REQUIRING LOCAL GOVERNMENTS TO PLANT TREES ALONG 
NATIONAL AND LOCAL HIGHWAYS WITHIN ITS TERRITORIAL 
BOUNDARZES AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES 
Be it enacted by the Semate and House of Representatives of the Philippiizes in 
Congress assembled: 
Section 1. Title. - This Act shall be known as the “Greening of Philippine Highways 
Act”. 
Section 2. Declaration of Policy. - It shall be the policy of the State to advance and 
promote the conservation of the environment, through the planting of trees along national 
and local roads and highways, to minimize and contain the adverse effects of pollution 
and flood. 
Section 3. Responsibility of Local Government. - It shall be the primary responsibility 
of local governments, with the cooperation of the Department of Local Governments, 
Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of Public Works and 
Highways, and other concerned government agencies, to plant and maintain trees along 
national and local highways within their respective territorial boundaries. 
Section 4. Fund. - The expenses necessary for the implementation of this Act shall be 
charged to the appropriation for the Department concerned under the current 
appropriations Act. Expenses for the succeeding years of implementation shall be 
included in the Annual Appropriations Act. 
Section 5. Implementing Rules and Regulations. - The Department of Local 
Government shall prescribe the implementing rules and regulations within thirty (30) 
days after the approval of this Act. 
Section 6. AI1 laws, decrees, orders, rules and regulations, inconsistent with this Act are 
hereby repealed and modified accordingly. 
Section 7. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in the Official 
Gazette or in two (2) national newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
7 ,JJL -3 
\\ fl. :c~? 
First Regular Session 
1 
111 
S E N A T E  
Senate Bill No. 6 1  4 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The primary election law of the land, most commonly known as the 
Omnibus Election Code of the Philippines, does not provide for a clear and 
distinct provision regarding the filing of petition to annul or suspend proclamation 
of winning candidates. 
In this regard, this representation intends to incorporate in specific 
provision which would provide the grounds and bases of the filing of said petition 
to annul a proclamation, so as to finally address legal queries regarding this 
aspect of the electoral process. 
Thus, urgent passage of this proposed legislation is hereby sought. 
ESTRADA 
enator 


FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
1 
7 ,IUL -3 ! i ' 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
) 
S E N A T E  
~~~(~~~~~~~ 
CY ' -* 
Senate Bill No. 6 1 4  
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
TO AMEND BATAS PAMBANSA BLG. 881, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE 
OMNIBUS ELECTION CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES, AS AMENDED, AND 
FOR OTHER PURPOSES 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Section 248 of Batas Pambansa Blg. 881, otherwise known 
as the Omnibus Election Code of he Philippines is hereby amended to read as 
follows: 
"Sec. 248. Petition to Annul Proclamation; Effect. A PETITION TO 
ANNUL THE PROCLAMATION OF ANY CANDIDATE MAY BE FILED 
WITH 
THE 
COMMISSION 
WITHIN 
FIVE 
(5) 
DAYS 
FROM 
PROCLAMATION. THE FILING [with the Commission] of [a] SUCH 
petition [to annul or to suspend the proclamation of any candidate] shall 
suspend the running of the period within which to file an election protest or 
quo warranto proceedings." 
SEC 2. Article XX of Batas Pambansa Blg. 881 is also amended to 
include the following new provisions: 
"Sec. 248-A. Grounds for Petition to Annul Proclamation. A 
PETITION TO ANNUL PROCLATION MAY BE FILED ON ANY OF THE 
FOLLOWING GROUNDS: 
(1) THE CANVASSED ELECTION RETURNS OR CERTIFICATES 
OF CANVASS ARE INCOMPLETE, CONTAIN MATERIAL 
DEFECTS, APPEAR 
TO 
BE 
TAMPERED WITH 
OR 
FALSIFIES, OR CONTAIN DISCREPANCIES IN THE SAME 
RETURNS OR IN OTHER AUTHENTIC COPIES THEREOF; 
(2) THE ELECTION RETURNS OR CERTIFICATE OR CANVASS 
WERE PREPARED UNDER DURESS, THREATS, COERCION 
OR INTIMIDATION, OR ARE NOT AUTHENTIC; AND 
(3) WHEN SUBSTITUTED OR FRAUDULENT RETURNS OF 
CERTIFICATES 
IN 
CONTESTED 
PRECINTS 
WERE 


CONVASSED, THE RESULTS OF WHICH MATERlALLY 
AFFECTED 
THE 
STANDING 
OF 
THE 
AGGRIEVED 
CANDIDATE OR CANDIDATES." 
SEC 3. Repealing Clause. All laws, presidential decrees, issuances, 
orders, rules and regulations or any part thereof inconsistent herewith are hereby 
amended, repealed or modified accordingly. 
SEC 4. Effectivity Clause. This Act shall take effect after fifteen (15) 
days following the completion of its publication in the Official Gazette or in at 
least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
14‘h Congress of the Republic ) 
of the Philippines 
) 
Is‘ 
Regular Session 
) 
~~ 
Introduced by Senator Aquilino Q. Pimentel, Jr. 
,* 
Explanatory Note 
Article 97 of the Revised Penal Code, which provides for the allowance for 
good conduct, recognizes the ability of prisoners to reform while serving their 
sentences. This reduction of sentence is in consideration of the good conduct 
and diligence of a prisoner who does not violate the code of discipline or prison 
rules, and has shown fidelity to the tasks given to him while serving sentence. 
It is, however, unfortunate that under our present laws, prisoners are not 
entitled to good conduct allowance while their cases are on appeal. This. rule 
either discourages prisoners from complying with prison rules or withdraw their 
appeals to qualify for good conduct allowance. 
This bill seeks to remedy the situation by amending Article 97 of the 
Revised Penal Code and allows inmates, even with appealed cases, to qualify for 
good conduct allowances. 
The early passage of this legislative 


14Ih Congress of the Republic ) 
of the Philippines 
) 
1' Regular Session 
) 
introduced by Senator Aquilino Q. Pimentel, Jr. 
AN ACT AMENDING ARTICLE 97 OF ACT NO 3815, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS 
THE REVISED PENAL CODE 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the 
Philippines in Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Article 97 of the Revised Penal Code is hereby amended to read as 
follows: 
Article 97. Allowance for good conduct. - The good conduct of any 
prisoner in any penal institution shall entitle him to the following deductions from 
the period of his sentence: 
1. During the first two years of his imprisonment, he shall be allowed a 
deduction of five days for each month of good behavior; 
2. During the third to the fifth year, inclusive, of his imprisonment, he shall 
be allowed a deduction of eight days for each month of good behavior; 
3. During the following years until the tenth year, inclusive, of his 
imprisonment, he shall be allowed a deduction of ten days for each month 
of good behavior; and 
4. During the eleventh and successive years of his imprisonment, he shall 
be allowed a deduction of fifteen days for each month of good behavior. 
AN APPEAL BY THE ACCUSED SHALL NOT DEPRIVE HIM OF 
ENTITLEMENT TO THE ABOVE ALLOWANCES FOR GOOD CONDUCT. 
SECTION 2. Rules and Regulations. The Department of Justice shall issue the 
rules and regulations of this Act within thirty (30) days after its effectivity. 
SECTION 3. Repealing Clause. All laws, executive orders, executive issuances, 
rules and regulations or part thereof inconsistent or contrary to the provisions of 
this Act, are hereby repealed or amended accordingly. 
SECTION 4. Separability Clause. In case any provision of this Act is declared 
unconstitutional or invalid, the other provisions hereof which are not affected 
thereby shall continue in full force and effect. 
SECTION 5. Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect thirty (30) days after its 
publication in two (2) national newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved
; ~ ,  
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z"ri[: 
".ifi;REIT,>pf 
FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
7 
JUL -2 
:r 1. : T 3 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
Senate Bill No. 
f 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The AFP Modernization Act was established to undertake reforms in the 
management of AFP personnel, among others. One of its main thrust was to be 
able to orient members of the AFP towards a people-oriented military service. 
While the existing undergraduate programs may serve to implement most of the 
AFP's task, the need to introduce a masteral studies program appears to be the 
next logical step to be able to further develop the AFP's skills. 
As a key player in national development, the AFP must see to it that its 
members continually enrich themselves both in training and academic skills. The 
proposed masteral program will foster an environment set for higher learning and 
will train the younger officers to be effective military managers. 
In view of the foregoing, approval of this bill is earnestly sought 
Senator 


FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
) 
7 31- 
J,@N 
:!/3, ‘I I 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
) 
Senate Bill No. 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
AMENDING EXECUTIVE ORDER 292, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE 
ADMINISTRATIVE CODE OF 1987, BY GRANTING THE PHILIPPINE 
MILITARY ACADEMY (PMA) THE POWER TO CONFER MASTERAL 
DEGREES UPON OFFICERS OF THE ARMED 
FORCES OF THE 
PHILIPPINES (AFP) 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Declaration of Policy. It is a policy of the State to give 
priority to education and to establish, maintain and support a complete, 
adequate, and integrated system of education relevant to the needs of the people 
and society. 
SEC 2. Sub-paragraph (4), Section 58, Chapter 9, Subtitle II, Title VIII, 
Book 9 of Executive Order No. 292, otherwise known as the Administrative Code 
of 1987, is hereby amended to read as follows: 
“Sec. 5%. Organization xxx 
(4) There shall be an Academic Board organized by the Chief of 
Staff, which shall be composed of not more than fifteen (15) 
members selected from the officers of the Academy upon 
recommendation of the Superintendent. 
The Board shall, in 
accordance with the rules and regulations prescribed by the Chief 
of Staff, have the power to confer baccalaureate degrees upon the 
cadets 
who 
satisfactorily 
complete 
the 
approved 
UNDERGRADUATE course of study, AS WELL AS CONFER THE 
MASTERAL DEGREES UPON OFFICERS OF AFP WHO 
SATISFACTORILY COMPLETE THE APPROVED GRADUATE 
COURSE OF STUDY.” 
SECTION 3. Repealing Clause. All laws, decrees, executive orders, 
administrative orders, rules and regulations, or parts thereof, inconsistent with 
this Act are hereby repealed or modified accordingly. 


SEC 4. Effectivity. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its 
complete publication in the Official Gazette or in two (2) newspapers of general 
circulation. 
Approved,
FOUFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
INTRODUCED BY HON. MANNY VILLAR 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Prostate cancer is now one of the leading causes of death among Filipino 
males. Statistics show that about 25 percent of men afflicted with prostate cancer die 
ultimately. Patients who survive the cancer still require treatment to ease symptoms 
such as pain, bleeding and urinary obstruction. 
The American Cancer Society and the American Urological Association 
recommend that men forty (40) years or older undergo periodic testing for the early 
detection of prostate cancer. Early detection will prevent future disease progression. 
Also, treatment in the early stages of cancer is less than when done in its advanced 
stages. 
This bill seeks to establish a program to educate the public and increase 
awareness on prostate cancer. 
MA 


T &It, -4 
i: 5 3 3  
FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 965 
INTRODUCED BY HON. MANNY VILLAR 
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AN ACT ESTABLISHING A PROGRAM FOR PUBLIC EDUCATION ON 
PROSTATE CANCER 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Short Title - This Act may be cited as the “Prostate Cancer Public 
Awareness Act.” 
SEC. 2. Definition of Terms - 
For purposes of this Act, the term - 
(a) 
“Director” means the Director of the Non-Communicable Disease 
Control Service of the Department of Health. 
SEC. 3. Establishment of Program for Public Education on Prostate Cancer. - 
The Director shall carry out a program on prostate cancer. Through the program, he 
shall conduct or support activities - 
(a) to educate males who are forty (40) yeas of age or older on the 
need to periodically undergoing physical examinations or such 
cancers, including education on the frequency and type of such 
examination that are appropriate for various age groups of such 
men: and 
(b) to educate males on the availability and appropriateness of 
procedures for detecting he cancer in its early stages, including 
the procedure known as prostate ultrasound. 


SEC. 4. Separability Clause. - If any provision, or part hereof is held invalid or 
unconstitutional, the remainder of the law o the provision not otherwise affected shall 
remain valid and subsisting. 
SEC. 5. Repealing Clause.- 
Any law, presidential decree or issuance, 
executive order, letter of instruction, administrative order, rule and regulation contrary to 
or inconsistent with, the provisions of his Act is hereby repealed, modified or amended 
accordingly. 
SEC. 6. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its 
publication in at least two(2) newspaper of general circulation. 
Approved,
IKALABINGAPAT NA KONGRESO NG REPUBLIKA) 
1 
7 JUL -3 P4 :lY 
NG PILIPINAS 
Unang Regular na Sesyon 
)
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S E N A D O  
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x3”: 
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Panukala ni Senador Manuel “Lito” M. Lapid 
PALIWANAG 
Ang Proklamasayon bilang 1041 na nagpapahayag ng taunang 
pagdiriwang ng Buwan ng Wikang Pambansa, ay isang napakahalagang 
deklarasyon na.dapat pagtibayin ng isang permanenteng batas. 
Ang pambansang wika ay isang matibay na haligi ng salinlahi at 
mayamang kultura ng Pilipinas. Ito ay magpapatibay ng pagkakaisa ng bansa na 
siyang magiging daan tungo sa kaunlaran. 
Ang buwan ng Agosto na hinihirang sa panukalang ito na buwan ng 
Wikang Pambansa ay siya ring buwan ng kaarawan ni Pangulong Manuel L. 
Quezon na tinuring ama ng Wikang Pambansa. 
Sa pamamagitan ng panukalang ito, lalo pa nating mapapayabong ang 
pagbibigay halaga sa ating katutubong salita. Hinihimok dit0 ang bawat paaralan 
at pampublikong tanggapan na makiisa sa pagbibigay dangal at pagpapalaganap 
ng paggamit ng wikang Pambansa ng Pilipinas. Ang Komisyon sa Wikang 
Filipino ay maaatasan ding magdaos ng isang malawakang pagdiriwang sa 
bawat lalawigan upang lalong maging matibay ang pagbibigay halaga sa Wikang 
Pambansa. 
Umaasa PO ang kinatawang it0 na mabibigyang kaukulang pansin ng 
Senado ang isang mahalagang panukalang magbubuklod-buklod sa bawat 
Pilipino. 
n 
MA Ad 
L “LITO” M. LAPID 
Senador 


IKALABINGAPAT NA KONGRESO NG REPUBLIKA ) 
NG PILIPINAS 
1 
7 
&I, 
-3 P 4 3 9  
Unang Regular na Sesyon 
1 .  
S E N A D O  
s. B. 846 
Panukala ni Senador Manuel ”Lito” M. Lapid 
PANUKALA 
PARA PAGTIBAYIN ANG DEKLARASYON NG BUWAN NG AGOSTO NG 
BAWAT TAON BILANG BUWAN NG WIKANG PAMBANSA 
lsinasabatas ng Senado at ng mga Representante ng Kongreso ng Pilipinas: 
SEKSYON 1. Deklarasyon. - Ang Buwan ng Agosto bawat taon ay 
inihahayag bilang “Buwan ng Wikang Pambansa”. 
SEKSYON 2 - Pagpapatupad. -Upang ang pagpapatupad ng Buwan ng 
Wikang Pambansa ay maging makabuluhan at sadyang napakahalaga, lahat ng 
institusyong pang edukasyon at pampublikong tanggapan sa buong bansa ay 
inaatasan na magbigay ng kanilang suporta sa selebrasyon sa pamamagitan ng 
pagsasagawa ng kani-kanilang aktibidades na may lubhang partisipasyon mula 
sa lahat ng mag-aaral at manggagawa. Ang Komisyon ng Wikang Filipino ang 
siyang mangunguna sa pangangasiwa ng magkasabay na pagdiriwang sa lahat 
ng lalawigan, sa anumang araw ng ika-lawang Linggo ng Agosto taon-taon 
bilang pagpapatupad ng Buwan ng Wikang Pambansa. 
’ 
SEKSYON 3. - Sugnay ng Pagpapawalang Bisa. - Lahat ng batas, 
proklamasyon, kautusan at alituntunin o bahagi nito na hindi sumasangayon sa 
mga probisyon ng panukalang it0 ay dinedeklarang walang bisa o nagbago na. 


SEKSYON 4. Sugnay ng Pagsasakatuparan. - Ang Panukalang ito ay 
magkakabisa Labinglimang (15) araw magmula sa pagkakalathala nit0 sa hindi 
kukulang sa dalawang (2) pahayagan na may laganap na sirkulasyon sa bansa. 
Pinagtibay,
FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
1 
First Regular Session 
) 
I+-- 
S E N A T E  
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Senate Bill No. 409 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Milk consumers are improperly informed about the contents of milk they 
acquire from the market. There is also no uniform standards as to the contents 
of skim milk, low fat milk and milk as beverage in final package. 
The Constitution, Article II, Section 15 provides that “The State shall 
protect and promote the right to health of the people and instill health 
consciousness among them.” In accordance with the constitutional mandate, this 
bill provides for the proper labeling of milk products indicating distinctly in its 
package the non-fat and protein contents of milk solids that are non fat in the 
classification of skim milk, low fat and milk beverage. With this innovation it is 
expected that the consuming public will be properly informed about the nutritional 
contents and value of the milk they consume. The quality of milk will likewise be 
upgraded in order to conform with proper nutritional standards. 
In view hereof, the early passage of this proposed measure is highly 
recommended. 


FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
1 
First Regular Session 
) 
S E N A T E  
Senate Bill No. 
4 0 9 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
ESTABLISHING STANDARDS FOR THE LABELING OF MILK 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Short Title. This Act may be cited as the "Milk Nutrition 
and Labeling Acr. 
SEC 2. Milk Labeling. The following standards shall apply in identifying 
milk: 
(a) 
Fluid milk shall indicate on its label such portion of milk which is 
non-fat; 
(1) 
(b) 
Skim milk, that is in its final package form for beverage use, 
shall contain not less than nine percent (9%) of milk solids 
that are non-fat; 
Milk, that is in its final package form for beverage use, shall 
contain not less than ten percent (10%) of milk solids that 
are non-fat; 
Milk, that is in its final package form for beverage use, shall 
contain not less than 8.7 percent of milk solids that are non- 
fat; 
(2) 
(3) 
(c) 
The 
nutritional contents and value of the milk (Le. protein). 
label on any milk product shall prominently display the 
SEC 3. Separability Clause. If any provision of part hereof, is held invalid 
or unconstitutional, the remainder of the law or the provision not otherwise 
affected shall remain valid and subsisting. 
SEC 4. Repealing Clause. Any law, presidential decree or issuance, 
executive order, letter of instruction, administrative order, rule or regulation 
contrary to, or inconsistent with, the provisions of this Act is hereby amended or 
repealed, modified or amended accordingly. 


SEC 5. Effectivity Clause. This Act shall take fifteen (15) days after its 
complete publication in the Official Gazette or in at least two (2) newspapers of 
general circulation. 
Approved,
S E N A T E  
Senate Bill No. 334 
~ 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
While there exists an agency tasked to safeguard and promote the welfare 
of Filipino overseas workers, including the identification of legitimate job 
opportunities in foreign countries, there is no agency tasked to cover local job 
opportunities. 
There is no agency to serve as a national manpower data bank that can 
have a ready listing of all available manpower, classified according to their skills, 
technical or otherwise. 
The proposed National Manpower Data and Placement Center shall 
gather and collate all available data and statistics on the present labor force, both 
employed and unemployed, and update the same every semester. 
The Center can serve the government and the private sector in terms of 
specific labor supply. It can serve as a national labor pool which may be tapped 
any time by local companies and the government. 
The Center shall provide an efficient inventory and classification of our 
labor and skills supply for maximum use of manpower, More than this, the 
Center shall provide the pertinent data needed in studies and formulation of 
strategies to fight underemployment and unemployment. 
Passage of this bill therefore, is earnest sought. 
r - A -  
IT0 ESTRAD 0 
U 
Senator 


FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
1 
First Regular Session 
) 
7 JlJl -2 
,,j::j! 
S E N A T E  
L 
Senate Bill No.& 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
ESTABLISHING THE NATIONAL MANPOWER DATA AND PLACEMENT 
CENTER, AND PROVIDING FUNDS THEREFOR 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Policy. It is the policy of the government to promote the 
welfare of all workers in terms of harnessing their talents and skills to the fullest. 
Government shall endeavor to provide an efficient system in tapping such skills 
and talents. 
SEC 2. There is hereby established a National Manpower Data and 
Placement Center under the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) 
which shall serve as the manpower and skills data bank and placement agency 
for local employment. The Center shall serve as counterpart of the Philippine 
Overseas Employment Administration (POEA). 
SEC 3. The DOLE shall promulgate the necessary rules and regulations 
of this Act. 
SEC 4. It is hereby authorized to be appropriated, out of any funds of the 
National Treasury, not otherwise appropriated, a sum to carry out the provisions 
of this Act. Thereafter, such sum, and any increase thereof, shall be included in 
the General Appropriations Act. 
SEC 5. All acts, presidential decrees, and issuance nor consistent with 
this Act are hereby repealed. 
SEC 6. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after publication in at 
least two newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
1 
F irsf Regular Session 
1 
Introduced by Senator Richard J. Gordon 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Medical expenses before death often reach exorbitant amounts. 
In the 
computation of the net estate for the payment of the estate tax, deductible medical 
bills are only allowed up to Five Hundred Thousand Pesos (P500,OOO.OO). This 
needs to be rationalized to reflect the realistic costs of present medical services. 
Thus, this bill proposes to increase the maximum allowable deductible medical 
expenses in the computation of the net estate for the payment of the estate tax from 
Five Hundred Thousand Pesos (P500,OOO.OO) to One Million Five Hundred 
Thousand Pesos (PI ,500,000.00), $e 
ICHARD J. GORDON 
/ 
Senator %A’ 


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FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
1 
SENATE 
S.No. 285 
Introduced by Senator Richard J. Gordon 
AN ACT AMENDING SECTION 86 (A) (6) OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8424, AS AMENDED, 
OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE NATIONAL INTERNAL REVENUE CODE OF 1997 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Section 86 (A) (6) of Republic Act No. 8424, as amended, otherwise 
known as the National Internal Revenue Code of 1997, is hereby amended to read as 
follows: 
“(6) Medical Expenses. - Medical expenses incurred by the decedent 
within one (1) year prior to his death which shall be duly substantiated with 
receipts: Provided, That in no case shall the deductible medical expenses 
exceed [Five Hundred Thousand Pesos (P500,000.00)] ONE MILLION FIVE 
HUNDRED THOUSAND PESOS (PI ,500,000.00).” 
Sec. 2. Repealing Clause. - All laws, decrees, orders, rules and regulations or 
other issuances or parts thereof inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are hereby 
repealed and modified accordingly. 
Sec. 3. Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days following the 
completion of its publication either in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general 
circulation in the Philippines. 
Approved, 
A
14* CONGRlESS OF TSIE REPUBLIC ) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
1 
1st Regular Session 
1 
7 JUN 30 P4 :,g 
Introduced by Senator Aquilino Q. Pimentel, Jr. 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Our forests are at the mercy of those who rape the environment by 
engaging in illegal logging activities to satisfy selfish commercial 
motives. Some government officials who are supposed to lead the 
crusade to protect the environment abet this revolting practice. Worse, 
a big portion of funds earmarked for the reforestation program of the 
government goes to the pockets of unscrupulous individuals. 
The elimination of our forest cover has caused the erosion of the 
area's fragile topsoil destroying rich agricultural land and even fishing 
grounds. The siltation of riverbeds, irrigation canals and estuaries 
eventually follow. This destroys the marine ecosystem when coral 
reefs are covered by siltation caused by soil erosion. 
These 
misfortunes would have been avoided had the forests been protected 
from iIIegd logging. 
In order to save our remaining forests and to ensure the successful 
reforestation of the badly denuded areas, Congress should impose a 
total log ban in forests, timberland, forest reserves and watersheds for 
the next twenty-five (25) years. 
In view of the urgent need to stop the rapid deforestation of our 
forests, the immediate approval of this Act is therefore requested. 
AQUILINO Q. PIMENTEL, JR. 


14* CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC ) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
1 
1st Regular Session 
1 
S E N A T E  
< .  
S. No. 
75 
Introdwed by Senator Aquilino Q. Pirnentel, Jr. 
AN ACT 
TOTALLY 
BANNING 
LOGGING 
OPERATIONS 
FOR 
THE 
NEXT 
TWENTY-FIVE YEARS 
SECTION 1. Declaration of Policy. - It is hereby declared a Policy of the State 
to prohibit logging operations of any kind in any forest, timber land, forest reserve 
or watershed for the next twenty-five (25) years. 
SECTIUN 2. Pmhibifed Acts. - It shall be unlawful for any person to cut, fell 
or destroy any tree standing on any forest, timber land, forest reserve or watershed 
within the next twenty-five (25) years from the approval of this Act. This 
prohibition shall not appIy to trees grown in legitimate commercial tree farms. 
SECTION 3. Penalties. - Any person who violates this Act shall be punished 
by imprisonment of not less than five (5) years but not more than ten (10) years. 
Any juridical entity that violates this Act shall forfeit its license or permit to 
do business in the Philippines. In addition, it shaIl be made to pay a fine of not less 
than Five hundred thousand pesos (P500,OOO.OO) but not more than Five million 
pesos (P5,000,000.00) at the discretion of the Court. The Chairman and/or the 
Chief Executive Officer or any other officer of the company responsible for the 
violation of this law shall be imprisoned for a period of not less than five (5) years 


but not more than ten (10) years also at the discretion of the Court. Aliens who 
violate this law shall be deported after their sentences shall have been served. 
SECTEON 4. EfictivtQ. -This Act shall take effect upon its publication in at 
least two (2) newspapers of national circulation. 
Approved,
FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC } 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
1 
First Regular Session 
1 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. &4 
Introduced bv: Senator Lacson 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The propose bill puts into implementation the basic law of the land, thus: 
"The state shall establish, maintain and support a 
complete, adequate and integrated system of education 
relevant to the people and society." (Sec. 2 [l], Art. 
XIV, 1987 Constitution). 
In this era of advanced science and technology, more and more countries 
rely on the facility of computer technology in their respective developmental 
pursuits. Computer literacyihowledge has now evolved from a matter of fad to 
absolute necessity in the real world. 
In every profession or business centers, demands for computer-proficient 
personnel have been increasing in tremendous proportions. Considering these 
changing times towards the advancement of science and technology, there is an 
imperative need for us to meet and adapt to these demands. 
Now, more than ever, is the time to train our children the technology of the 
future. We must prepare them for the vicious battle for survival in the next 
decades to come by providing them a legacy of a stable educational foundation 
lest we deem to be oblivious and unconcerned on the future of our children, the 
leaders of tomorrow. The mandatory instruction of computer in the elementary and 
secondary level of education is the first step toward this direction. 
Considering the foregoing reasons, the passage of this bill is earnestly 
requested. 
P 
F 
M.LACSON 
u e n a t o r  


FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 1 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
1 
First Regular Session 
1 
194 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. __ 
__. . 
Introduced by: Senator Lacson 
AN ACT 
TO INCLUDE THE TEACHING OF COMPUTER AS PART OF THE 
ELEMETARY AND HIGH SCHOOL CURRICULA, BOTH IN PUBLIC 
AND PRIVATE SCHOOLS 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House ofRepresentattves of the Philippines 
in Congress Assembled: 
SECTION 1. The teaching of computer is hereby made compulsory and 
shall be included as an additional subject for all students in elementary and high 
school both in public and private schools. 
SEC. 2. The Department of Education shall promulgate the necessary rules 
and regulations to implement this Act. 
SEC. 3. This Act shall take effect upon its approval. 
Approved,