bettergovph/raw-philippine-data huggingface dataset:
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SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Second Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S.B. No. 1495
'17 JUN 27 All 57
RECEIVII) BV.
4 = r
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam" A. Aquino IV
AN ACT
REPEALING REPUBLIC ACT NO. 1405, AS AMENDED, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE
SECRECY OF BANK DEPOSITS LAW
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Philippines is one of the few countries still left with a bank secrecy law.
Republic Act No. 1405, otherwise known as the "Secrecy of Bank Deposits Law", 
protects the confidentiality of all bank deposits made by individuals. This law was enacted for 
the purpose of encouraging individuals to deposit funds in banking institutions in order to 
encourage economic growth.
But this law also protects dubious individuals, allowing them to evade taxes and conceal 
monetary transactions that may be unconstitutional.
According to the Department of Finance, we are losing P668.34 billion in taxes and 
duties annually due to the restrictive banking laws in the Philippines, or around 33.7% of the its 
yearly tax revenues.1
It is thus necessary to strengthen measures to ensure that Filipino rightfully declare 
their taxes. In line with the government's Comprehensive Tax Reform, the lifting of this law 
secures efficiency in terms of revenues collection by both the Bureau of Internal Revenue and 
Bureau of Customs. The lifting of this law also ensures that our country avoids tax evasion and 
tax fraud cases.
Let us make our tax collection procedures remain reliable and efficient.
http://business.m b.com .ph/2017/05/03/dof-estim ates-p668-b-tax-losses-due-to-bank-secrecy/


In view of the foregoing, the passing of this bill is urgently sought.
PAOLO BtNIGNO "BAM" AQUINO IV


fjyi ;i 
s^riRif*
'■■•-i’ r i 45J\S ? ( iitr  Hi ( i . f ; • i . p t s r p
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Second Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S.B. No. 1495
*17 JUN 27 All 57
R EC EiV lu ET-'.
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam" A. Aquino IV
AN ACT
REPEALING REPUBLIC ACT NO. 1405, AS AMENDED, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE
SECRECY OF BANK DEPOSITS LAW
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress as assembled:
1 
SECTION 1. Republic Act No. 1405, as amended by Presidential Decree No. 1792,
2 
otherwise known as the Secrecy of Bank Deposits Law is hereby repealed.
3 
SEC. 2. It is the policy of the State to effectively combat both domestic and global
4 
tax evasion, money laundering and other financial crimes; to promote harmonious
5 
and supportive international relations; and to comply with international standards
6 
on transparency. It is likewise the policy of the State to protect all persons, natural
7 
and juridical, from any unauthorized or unlawful inquiry or access into data or
8 
information deemed confidential by specific law, or covered by the Data Privacy Act.
9 
SEC. 3. -  Effectivity Clause. -  This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its
10 
publication in the Official Gazette or in at least two (2) newspapers of general
11 
circulation.
12
Approved,
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC) 
OFTHE PHILIPPINES 
)
Second Regular Session 
)
.d’'1 
o f  H i t r1 * ^ T r l n r y
■17 O'lCIZ AIC
SENATE
S.B. No. 163 3
Introduced by Senator Richard J. Gordon, Chairman, and the Members of the Committee on 
Accountability of Public Officers and Investigations (Blue Ribbon)
AN ACT
AMENDING SECTION 9 OF PRESIDENTIAL DECREE 1586 BY INCREASING THE 
PENALTIES THEREOF AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
assembled:
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8 
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20 
21 
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
Section 1. Section 9 of Presidential Decree 1586 (Environmental Impact Statement 
System Law) is hereby amended to read as follows:
Section 9. Penalty for Violation. Any person, corporation or partnership found 
violating Section 4 of this Decree, or the terms and conditions in the issuance of 
the Environmental Compliance Certificate, or of the standards, rules and 
regulations issued by the National Environmental Protection Council pursuant to 
this Decree shall be punished by the suspension or cancellation of his/its 
certificate or and/or a fine in an amount not [to exceed Fifty Thousand Pesos (P 
50,000.00)] LESS THAN FIVE HUNDRED THOUSAND PESOS (P 500,000.00) BUT 
NOT MORE THAN TWO MILLION PESOS (P 2,000,000.00) for every violation 
thereof[,j AND DEPENDING ON THE EFFECT AND DAMAGE IT CAUSED, at the 
discretion of the National Environmental Protection Council.
IN ADDITION TO THE PENALTIES IMPOSED IN THE PRECEDING PARAGRAPH 
AND SUCH OTHER LIABILITIES AS MAY BE ENACTED UNDER OTHER SPECIAL 
LAWS, ANY PERSON, PARTNERSHIP OR CORPORATION FOUND VIOLATING 
SECTION 4 OF THIS DECREE OR THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE 
ENVIRONMENTAL 
COMPLIANCE 
CERTIFICATE 
SHALL 
BE 
OBLIGED 
TO 
SHOULDER THE FULL COST OF THE REHABILITATION, REPARATION, OR 
RESTORATION OF THE DAMAGE CAUSED BY ITS VIOLATION.
Sec. 2. Implementing Rules and Regulations. - The Secretary of the Department of 
Environment and Natural Resources shall promulgate the necessary rules and regulations 
for the effective implementation of this Act.
Sec. 3. Repealing Clause. - All other laws, decrees, orders, issuances, and rules and 
regulations or parts thereof inconsistent with this Act, are hereby repealed or amended 
accordingly.
Sec. 4. Separability Clause. - All other provisions of Presidential Decree No. 1586 not 
affected thereby shall remain in full force and effect.
Sec. 5. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its 
publication in at least (2) national newspapers of general circulation.
Approved,
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Second R egular Session  
)
SENATE 
S.B. No. 1 6 3 9
■ Z t
^ 
Ut » .i‘ ,
* I* ‘ *
18 
I/IN-8 P4:)9
In tro d u c e d  by SEN. WIN GATCHALIAN
AN ACT
AMENDING REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8762, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE 
RETAIL TRADE LIBERALIZATION ACT, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
In 2000, the Philippines passed Republic Act No. 8762, otherwise 
known as the Retail Trade Liberalization Law, to allow the entry of foreign 
investments in the retail sector to stimulate economic growth, to create more 
job opportunities, and to provide Filipino consumers with better choices and 
higher quality goods and services at lower prices.
Seventeen years into the passage of the law, the reforms made under 
RA No. 8762 have not resulted in substantial foreign investments in the 
retail trade sector. Based on the list of foreign retailers pre-qualified by the 
DTI-BOI, only 22 foreign retailer firms have invested in the country’s retail 
sector since 2000.1 According to the Labor Force Survey, unemployment 
rate is at 5.7% as of April 2017,2 and while a robust retail trade industry 
could have been a vehicle for job creation, the opportunity for employment is 
lessened without such investments.
‘See
http:/ / W W W .boi.f^ov.ph/files/laws/List%20of%20Foreim%20Retailers%20Preaualifieri%9na 
s%20of%20December%202016.pdf. Last viewed .Inly 
9ni7 4,-^n p m
2 See https://psa.gov.ph/statistics/survev/labor-force. Last viewed July 3, 2017. 4:45 pm.
I
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
FIRST REGULAR SESSION 
)
•16 
AUG 25 
A11:18
SENATE n o n  
S B. NO. 
l u o O
Iti «
'W :
INTRODUCED BY SENATOR JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO
AN ACT
REQUIRING THE TEACHING OF HUMAN RIGHTS AS MANDATORY IN 
ALL PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SCHOOLS
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Global trend suggests that the people regardless of nationality or ethnic origin 
should be aware of the basic human rights of each individual ranging from the right 
to life, liberty, food, shelter, education, and among others. In fact, international 
treatises, covenants, agreements, laws were crafted, passed and signed by different 
States just to make sure that the basic precepts of these international laws and 
agreement will be observed and enforced by the concurring States.
In the Philippines, albeit the fact that our government has been a signatory to a 
number of these covenants and treatises, we still have problems in terms of 
observance and enforcement as human rights abuses still rampant throughout the 
country. Many of our countrymen are passive to report human rights abuses because 
of fear, ignorance and lack of support from the government.
No less than the 1987 Philippine Constitution under Article XIII, Section 18 (5) and 
(6), succinctly provides, that:
"(5) Establish a continuing program of research, education, and information to enhance 
respect for the primacy of human rights."
”(6) Recommend to Congress effective measures to promote human rights
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
FIRST REGULAR SESSION 
)
cnatf
o f lhp.^?k>‘rTr<:in)
'16 AUG 25 All :26
SENATE
SENATE BILL NO. 109G
H V 
;
'W :
INTRODUCED BY SENATOR JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO
AN ACT
EXEMPTING THE SALE OR IMPORTATION OF PETROLEUM PRODUCTS 
AND RAW MATERIALS IN THE MANUFACTURE THEREOF FROM THE 
EXPANDED VALUE ADDED TAX, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SECTION 
109 (1) OF THE NATIONAL INTERNAL REVENUE CODE (NIRC) OF 1997, AS 
AMENDED BY REPUBLIC ACT 9337, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The cost of petroleum products influences the prices and services of the local 
market. Every increase of the petroleum products would surely brings heavy burden 
to the Filipino people, whose incomes are meager that they could not cope and easily 
adjust with the inflation.
With the political tensions heating up in the Middle East, Syria and the 
looming decline in petroleum reserves worldwide, the price of oil has tremendously 
increased causing great burden to the Filipino people. Being an importer and heavily 
dependent on the use of petroleum and other petroleum-based products, every price 
increase on oU has an adverse effect on the economy. Every increase in the prices of 
gasoline, diesel, kerosene and other petroleum-based products has a domino effect 
to the price of prime commodities. This situation if not abated will certainly retard 
our economic growth targets and create widespread poverty among our people.
When the Expanded Value Added Tax (Republic Act No. 9337) was enacted 
by Congress in 2004, its purpose was to address the prevailing looming crisis 
brought about by an unprecedented increase in national debt. The existing economic 
situation then was the country's debt-to-gross domestic product ratio was at record 
high of 78.2%. Debt payments then were equivalent to 86.1% of government 
revenues, which was unparalleled since 1986.
However, in 2010, the country's debt-to-gross domestic product ratio fell to 
55.4%, a large improvement from the 2004 level. The economic team of President
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
FIRST REGULAR SESSION 
)
" ^ 2 ^  
ft*t» of fljr-J?*' t ft.ir
’16 
AUG 25 
A IM ?
SENATE
Senate Bill No. 1077
H K(  
j
Introduced by SENATOR JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO
AN ACT
ESTABLISHING A CRISIS CENTER FOR STREET CHILDREN IN EVERY 
REGION OF THE PHILIPPINES, APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR 
AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This measure seeks to provide establishment of centers for street 
children in every region in the country.
Increasing poverty in the country's urban centers such as Metro 
Manila, Cebu and Davao is causing a corresponding rise in the number of 
street children. This observation is borne out by reports of the Department of 
Social Welfare and Development in every budget hearings about the status of 
street children in the country. A study of the DSWD lists four factors 
responsible for the street children phenomenon, to wit: poverty and 
underemployment of the country; rapid urbanization; inequitable distribution 
of the national wealth; and an ailing national economy.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development extends assistance 
to these children through its "Lingap" Centers which implement a program 
aimed at developing the children's potentials and reviving their hope for a 
better future. But the assistance is not enough, for the government can only do 
so much. In this regard, remedial measures must be restored to and 
legislation can help in that respect. However, whatever measure may be 
taken, it must be done now for the youth of today who will be the parents and 
leaders of tomorrow and who, in turn, will inculcate in their young, their own 
values, which may be different from wliat we want.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES )
Second Regular Session 
)
SENATE
1 ;
.1
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto
AN ACT
CONVERTING THE LAND TRANSPORTATION OFFICE (LTO) LICENSING 
CENTER IN THE CITY OF BATANGAS, PRO\ INCE OF BATANGAS INTO A 
REGULAR LICENSING CENTER TO BE KNOWN AS THE LTO BATANGAS 
CITY LICENSING CENTER OF BATANGAS CITY, BATANGAS AND 
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
Explanatory Note
The Land Transportation Office (LTO) Batangas Licensing Center in the City of 
Batangas is the lone licensing center in the Province of Batangas. The office serves the 
constituents of the Province’s thirty one (31) municipalities and three (3) cities. It also 
caters to driver’s license applicants from the nearby island provinces of Occidental and 
Oriental Mindoro.
The perfonnance record of the Batangas Licensing Center since it was established 
in 1985 showed remarkable growth in terms of revenue collections and volume of 
transactions, ranking second among the four (4) licensing centers in the Region in the last 
five (5) years with a total revenue collection of PI 22,214,879.
The current work force of the LTO Batangas Licensing Center is composed of 
nine (9) Organic Personnel which were pulled out from various District Offices and 
seven (7) Job Order Personnel with no employee-employer relationship.
The proposed conversion of the LTO Batangas Licensing Center into a Regular 
Licensing Center is sought so it can be provided its own budget under the General 
Appropriations Act (GAA) for its capital outlay, and maintenance and other operating 
expenses. This would definitely enhance and strengthen the performance of the office 
through the creation of 35 regular plantilla positions which in effect would regularize 
employment status of existing personnel and will redound to a much better public service.
In view of the foregoing, the approval of the bill is earnestly sought.
mi HU!
Lph cy.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES ) 
Second Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S. No.
1684
(In Substitution of Senate Bill Nos. 261 and 607)
Prepared jointly by the Committees on Civil Service, Government Reorganization and 
Professional Regulation; Education, Arts and Culture with Senators Panfilo M.-Lacsoni' o 
Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV, and Francis “Chiz” G. Escudero as authors_______
AN ACT
DECLARING THE CONFERMENT OF A DOCTORATE DEGREE AS 
EQUIVALENT TO ENTRY LEVEL CAREER EXECUTIVE SERVICE OFFICER
ELIGIBILITY IN THE CIVIL SERVICE
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled:
1 
SECTION 1. The conferment of a doctorate degree by an institution of higher
2 
learning duly accredited by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) is hereby declared
3 
as equivalent to entry level Career Executive Service Officer (CESO) eligibility in the civil
4 
service for purposes of appointment to executive positions in the classified service in the
5 
Government or any of its branches, subdivisions, instmmentalities, and agencies including
6 
government-owned or controlled corporations with original charters, provided the doctorate
7 
degree is relevant to the position being handled, except with regard to positions requiring
8 
highly specialized knowledge not covered by the doctorate degree of the holder.
9 
SEC. 2. The registrars or other responsible officers of duly accredited colleges and
10 
Universities offering doctorate- degrees shall regularly furnish the Civil Service Commission
11 
(CSC) with a complete list of graduates of their respective colleges or universities who have
12 
been conferred with doctorate degrees within sixty (60) days from conferment of the same.
13 
SEC. 3. Eligibility shall commence on the date of conferment of the doctorate degree.
14 
Provided, that for those who have already been conferred doctorate degrees prior to the
15 
passage of this Act, their eligibility shall be deemed to commence from the approval hereof.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
ft-T, 
>1 
W t ' i l a i
\'C\r ' S r f i r e  o f  fhf. > .  ri 
, r,
•16 SEP-5 P5 :02
SENATE
S. B. No.1 1 2 5
ti i
MY;
Introduced by Senator JOEL VILLANUEVA
AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR THE CREATION OF PHILIPPINE EXTRACTIVE 
INDUSTRIES TRANSPARENCY INITIATIVE
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The extractive industry has the capacity to contribute to the national growth and 
development, especially in resource-rich countries like the Philippines. It has the 
potential to provide livelihood opportunities, create jobs, and channel additional 
government resources to host communities. The gains from the oil, gas, and mineral 
resources, nevertheless, does not always translate to benefits for the general public. 
Across the globe, extractive industries are marred with various issues on 
environmental degradation, poverty, and corruption.
In response to these issues, the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative 
(EITI) was launched to allow for full disclosure of and public access to information 
regarding the extractive industry. The EITI is an internationally recognized framework 
and practice that monitors revenue and public benefit from mining and other extractive 
resources. Composed of representatives from the government, extractive industry 
players, and civil society organizations, EITI provides a platform for the regular and 
systematic reporting, review, and assessment of information concerning the industry. 
It also strengthens multi-sectoral participation in crafting and implementing regulatory 
policies governing the extractive industry.
In the Philippines, the EITI was established on November 26, 2013 pursuant to 
Executive Order No. 147 entitled “Creating the Philippine Extractive Industries 
Transparency Initiative”. Since its inception, the Philippine EITI (PH-EITI) served as 
an effective platform for public disclosure of information on fees, taxes and other 
payments made by mining companies. The later expansion of PH-EITI enabled the 
coverage of oil and gas industries. Furthermore, regular reports published by the PH- 
EITI also later expanded to include publicly disclosed information on social and 
environmental impact of the extractive industries.
I
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
*16 AUG 16 P6 -35
SENATE
S. B. No. 1 0 3 5
RE Cl:’!'RY:
Introduced by Senator JOEL “TESDAMAN” VILLANUEVA
AN ACT CREATING THE
NATIONAL INDEPENDENT COMMISSION AGAINST CORRUPTION 
(NICAC), APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREOF AND FOR OTHER
PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Over the last six years, the Philippine government has made enormous strides 
in the fight against corruption. As a high political priority of the past administration, 
stricter rules on transparency and government transactions were put in place.
However, corruption remains a significant obstacle not only to good governance 
but also in making the Philippines attractive to investors. Corruption also undermines 
the continuing thrust of the government towards public-private partnerships (PPP) 
projects.
In fact, the Transparency International’s survey on corruption showed that the 
Philippines ranking slipped by 10 notches, from its earlier rank of 85 out of 175 
countries in 2014 to 95 out of 186 countries in 2015. In ASEAN, the Philippines has 
even been surpassed by Thailand and Indonesia, which ranked 76th and 88th, 
respectively.
The global survey measures perceptions on the degree of corruption as seen 
by business people and risk analysts. Hence, higher ranking for the Philippines means 
that it would be more costly to do business in the country.
Corruption, especially bribery, crowds out potential investors. It is more likely to 
also impact job creation efforts of the government. In the World Bank Group’s Doing
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session
of IfieJj^rtrH .ru
’16 AUG 23 P4 :30
S E N A T E
S.B.No._J_Q 6_|
R f ; r a i \ ’? • '  B Y :
Introduced by Senator Poe
AN ACT
ERADICATING ABUSIVE CONTRACTUALIZATION PRACTICES AND 
PENALIZING EMPLOYERS AND CONTRACTORS WHO COMMIT SUCH 
ABUSES, BY AMENDING FOR THIS PURPOSE BOOK THREE, TITLE TWO AND 
BOOK SIX, TITLE I OF PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 442, OTHERWISE 
KNOWN AS THE LABOR CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES, AS AMENDED
Explanatory Note
Several provisions of the 1987 Philippine Constitution safeguard the rights of 
laborers. The most explicit of these provisions is Article XIII, Section 3, which states:
The State shall afford full protection to labor, local and overseas, organized and 
unorganized, and promote full employment and equality of employment 
opportunities for all.
It shall guarantee the rights of all workers to self-organization, collective 
bargaining and negotiations, and peaceful concerted activities, including the right 
to strike in accordanee with law. They shall be entitled to security of tenure, 
humane conditions of work, and a living wage. They shall also participate in 
policy and decision-making processes affecting their rights and benefits as may be 
provided by law. . . ”
Security of tenure is included among the rights of laborers and is operationalized in 
Article 279 of Piesidential Deeree No. 442, as amended, otherwise known as the Labor Code 
of the Philippines.
Contractualization is a perceived threat to a worker’s right to seeurity of tenure. 
Contractualization in the Philippine context has many meanings. On one hand, it can refer to 
the aet of “subcontracting” under Articles 106 to 109 of the Labor Code.1 Under a
1 D el R osario, R. and R esureccion, P.F. “ Less than six m onths co n tra ct periods: is the re ta il in d u stry 
c irc u m v e n tin g  the law ? T he P h ilip p in e  case.”  International Journal of Information Technology and Business
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session
SENATE
Senate Bill No. 1092
P
^ n i a t r
( g f lit *  o f th e (?»'’r ! r 'i r
*16 l\UG 25 Air-24
rt:( n  
fiY:
Introduced by SENATOR JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO
AN ACT REGULATING HARBOR PILOTAGE SERVICES AND THE 
CONDUCT OF HARBOR PILOTS IN ALL PORTS IN THE PHILIPPINES, 
REORGANIZING PORT AUTHORITIES AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Pilotage service is one of the most important complementary services to 
vessels in port. Regulating harbor pilotage services and the conduct of harbor pilots 
will ensure not only the proper landing and setting of vessels but also the safe 
embarkation and disembarkation of both passengers and cargoes. It is about time 
that our antiquated laws in marine transportation be updated so as to fit the present 
conditions of tire industry. Harbor pilots have long been fbctures in our ports. 
Without them, the safety of our ports, vessels, cargoes and the lives of millions of 
commuters depending on marine transportation may be placed in peril.
Under the proposed measure, all harbor pilots must get an accreditation from 
the Pilotage Committee before they can practice the profession. The pilotage 
committee shall accredit only a limited number of harbor pilots per district or port 
for efficiency purposes.
This proposed measure provides for the regulation and supervision of harbor 
pilotage services and the conduct of harbor pilots in the country. Correspondingly, it 
seeks to repeal Executive Order 1088 of 1986 otherwise known as "An Act Providing 
for Uniform and Modified Rates for Pilotage Services Rendered to Foreign and 
Coastwise Vessels in all Private or Public Philippine Ports."
Once approved, this bill would certainly provide effective and efficient 
delivery of pilotage services to aU ports in the coimtry. Hence, passage of this 
measure is urgently requested.
JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO
Senate
o[ tl)C C-rn rtnrp
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E
SENATE BILL NO.
1454
(In Substitution of Senate Bill Nos. 101, 645, and 1260)
17 
MAY 1 6 , P 4:11
7
RECEIV tu  BV;
Prepared by the Committees on Justice and Human Rights and Environment and Natural Re­
sources with Senators Gordon, Aquino IV, and Villaras authors thereof
AN ACT
REMOVING THE RESTRICTIONS IN THE REGISTRATION OF LAND TITLES UNDER SECTIONS 
118, 119, AND OTHER RESTRICTIONS AGAINST ENCUMBRANCE OR ALIENATION ON FREE 
PATENTS ISSUED UNDER SECTION 44 OF COMMONWEALTH ACT NO. 141 OR THE PUBLIC 
LAND ACT, AS AMENDED
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House o f Representatives o f the Philippines in Congress assembled:
1 
SECTION. 1. Short Title. - This Act shall be known as the Agricultural Free Patent Re-
2 
form Act of 2017.
3 
Sec. 2. Declaration o f Policy. - It is the policy of the State to remove the restrictions
4 
on free patents to allow the efficient and effective utilization of these lands to contribute to
5 
wealth creation, entrepreneurship, and economic development.
6 
Sec. 3. Removal o f Restrictions. - Agricultural public lands alienated or disposed in
7 
favor of qualified public land applicants under Section 44 of Commonwealth Act No. 141, as
8 
amended, shall not be subject to restrictions regarding encumbrances, conveyances, trans-
9 
fers, or dispositions imposed under Sections 118 and 119 thereof. Agricultural free patent
10 
shall now be considered as title in fee simple and shall not be subject to any restriction
11 
against encumbrance or alienation.
12 
Sec. 4. Retroactive Effect. - This Act shall have retroactive effect and any restriction
13 
regarding encumbrances, conveyances, transfers, or dispositions imposed on agricultural


1 
free patents issued under Section 44 of Commonwealth Act No. 141, as amended, before
2 
the effectivity of this Act shall be removed and are hereby immediately lifted.
3 
Sec. 5. Repealing Clause. - All laws, decrees, orders, rules and regulations, or other
4 
issuances or parts thereof inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are hereby repealed or
5 
modified accordingly.
6 
Sec. 6. Separability Clause. - If any portion or provision of this Act is declared uncon-
7 
stitutional, the remainder of this Act or any provision not affected thereby shall remain in
8 
force and effect.
9 
Sec. 7. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect after fifteen (15) days following
10 
the completion of its publication either in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general
11 
circulation in the Philippines.
12 
Approved,
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
T h ir d  R e g u la r S ession 
)
S E N A T E
S.B. No 1996
'18 
SEP 1 1 . P 3  :4 9
Introduced by Senator Ana T h ere sia "Risa" H o n tiveros-B araquel
AN ACT
INSTITUTING THE MAGNA CARTA OF FILIPINO SEAFARERS
EXPLANATORY NOTE
With the Philippines deploying over 300,000 overseas Filipino seafarers (OFS) in 
international ocean-going vessels, the government's continuous efforts to ensure their protection 
and welfare has been strengthened through the ratification of the International Seafarer’s Bill of 
Rights, making the Philippines the 30th member-state to sign the International Labor Organization’s 
Maritime Labor Convention 2006.
Aimed towards better protection, before, during, and after deployment, increase in 
competency building, education and training, and increase in overall competency building, and 
increase in overall competitiveness and professional advantage of our Filipino overseas seafarers, 
this bill seeks to strengthen the rights of our OFS through stronger compensation benefits, clearer 
institutional accountabilities and more hardworking protective mechanisms that can empower the 
Philippine institutions in their protection of OFS within and beyond our borders. This bill seeks to 
forge clearer accountability of specific institutions when it comes to protection of OFS and to ensure 
just compensation of our OFS and relevant social protection.
The passage of this bill is earnestly sought
Ana Theresia "Risa
ontiveros-I^raqiiel
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
FIRST REGULAR SESSION 
)
•16 AUG 25 A11 :21
SENATE
S. B. N O .. 1085
U K  
'’“V:.
Introduced by SENATOR JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO
AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE DIRECT REMITTANCE TO THE HOST 
LOCAL GOVERNMENT OF ITS FORTY PERCENT (40%) SHARE OF THE 
PROCEEDS DERIVED FROM THE UTILIZATION AND DEVELOPMENT OF 
NATIONAL WEALTH, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SECTION 293 OF 
REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7160, AS AMENDED, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE 
"LOCAL GOVERNMENT CODE OF 1991"
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Consistent with the promotion and enhancement of local financial autonomy, 
this proposed measure seeks to amend Section 293 of Republic Act 7160, otherwise 
known as the Local Government Code of the Philippines.
As proposed, this bill seeks to mandate the national government for the direct 
remittance to the local government of its 40% share of the proceeds derived from 
mining taxes, royalties, forestry and fishery charges, and such other taxes, fees, 
including related surcharges, interests, or fines and from its share in any co­
production, joint-venture or production-sharing agreement in the utilization and 
development of national wealth within their territorial jurisdiction. Thus, the local 
government units would no longer beg for projects to the Department of Budget and 
Management.
This legislative measure once approved would expand the fiscal resource of 
the local government units. Hence, the passage of this bill is fervently sought.
'“<3^ Or'
JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO 
Senator
Senate

SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC) Oice of zye Geecetary
OF THE PHILIPPINES )
Third Regular Session )
18 AUG-9 AIO :17
SENATE
s.p.No. 1927

Introduced by Senator Maria Lourdes Nancy S. Binay

pera ft
AN ACT

CLARIFYING THE RULE ON IMPOSITION OF INTEREST ON
OBLIGATIONS CONSISTING OF LOAN OR FORBEARANCE OF MONEY

EXPLANATORY NOTE
In Nacar vs. Gallery Frames and/or Felipe Bordey, Jr. (G.R. No. 189871, August
13, 2013) the Supreme Court modified the landmark case of Eastern Shipping
Lines, Inc. v. Court of Appeals (G.R. No. 97414, July 12, 1994) to embody
Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas ("BSP") Monetary Board ("MB") Circular No. 799 by
imposing that the rate of interest for the loan or forbearance of any money,
goods or credits and the rate allowed in judgments, in the absence of an express

contract as to such rate of interest, shall be six percent (6%) per annum.

On the other hand, Article 1956 of the New Civil Code provides that no interest

shall be due, unless it has been expressly stipulated in writing, thus:

Art. 1956. No interest shall be due unless it has been expressly stipulated

in writing.

In order provide a definite legislative clarification on what would seem to be
conflicting provisions of the BSP-MP Circular and the New Civil Code, this bil
seeks to clarify the rule on interest on loan or forbearance of money by providing
that there shall be no interest due on loan or forbearance of money unless it has
been expressly stipulated in writing. The rate of interest shall be that is



stipulated by the parties in writing, in the absence of a written agreement, the
legal rate of interest shall be 6% per annum.

The proposed bill seeks to provide stability to commercial undertakings by
providing a clear rule on obligations of parties as to payment of interest, as well

as the rate thereof in the absence of stipulation.

The passage of this bill is therefore earnestly requested.

MARIA LB NAT S. BINAY

Senator



Sear s,4eFHene

12

SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC)
OF THE PHILIPPINES
Third Regular Session

“18 AUG -9 AIO 317

5.B.No. 1927 t

RCH EL

Introduced by Senator Maria Lourdes Nancy S. Binay

AN ACT
CLARIFYING THE RULE ON IMPOSITION OF INTEREST ON
OBLIGATIONS CONSISTING OF LOAN OR FORBEARANCE OF MONEY

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in
Congress assembled:

Section 1. No interest shall be due on obligations consisting of loans or
forbearance of money unless it has been expressly stipulated in writing. The rate
of interest for the loan or forbearance of any money, goods or credits and the
rate allowed in judgments, in the absence of an express written agreement as to

such rate of interest, shall be six percent (6%) per annum.

Sec. 2. Repealing Clause. - All laws, decrees, orders, rules and
regulations, other issuances, or parts thereof inconsistent with the provisions of
this Act are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

Sec, 3. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days
after its publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation.

Approved,
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
]
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
]
First Regular Session 
\
SENATE 
S.B. No.
'fiffirt nf 
rttl.'i.j;
'16 
rllJG - 8  
P 5 :30
j, r-
In tro d u ced  by SEN. WIN GATCHAJ IAN
AN ACT
ESTABLISHING THE INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY OFFICE IN EVERY 
MUNICIPALITY, CITY AND PROVINCE AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Information 
Technology 
is 
commonly 
used 
as 
a 
synonym 
for 
com puters 
and 
com puter 
networks, 
W ikipedia defines 
it 
as 
the
application 
of 
com puters 
and 
telecom m unications equipm ent 
to store,
retrieve, 
transm it 
and 
m anipulate 
data. 
Sim ultaricous 
access 
by 
m any 
users 
has 
m ade 
business 
processes 
productive 
and 
h as increased
efficiency 
in 
m ost 
transactions. 
The 
speed 
by 
which 
these 
data 
are 
stored, 
retrieved 
and 
transm itted 
h as 
revitilized 
efficiency 
and 
productivity to a whole different level.
The advantages oi a fully autom ated public service transaction, we 
believe, 
shall 
save time 
and transportation 
cost, 
limit bureaucratic red 
tape and curb corruption, as well as allow for f-.vernm ent transparency 
and 
maximize 
efficiency 
and 
productivity 
of 
public 
functions. 
Some 
LGU's have already established far more advanced system  
of
technology in their locality and by this hum ble legislation, we ydsh th a t other L KJs 
shall likewise share in the benefits th at autom ation h as brd 
local units. Hence, support for this endeavor is earnestly '^oughf
^ n t a  if
’'■i'iJ ir (Sffirt of
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
•16 Mfj]5 R2:17
SENATE
S. No. 
1019
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto
AN ACT
ENHANCING THE EASE OF DOING BUSINESS BY EXEMPTING MICRO AND 
SMALL 
ENTERPRISES 
FROM 
THE 
PAYMENT 
OF 
PERCENTAGE 
TAX, 
AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE THE NATIONAL INTERNAL REVENUE CODE OF 
1997, AS AMENDED
Explanatory Note
The contribution of micro and small enterprises (MSEs) to the country’s economic 
development cannot be overemphasized. In terms of employment, MSEs generated 4.36 million 
jobs or roughly 55.9% of total jobs generated by all types of business establishments created in 
2014, i.e. 2.37 million jobs in micro and 1.98 million in small enterprises1. Moreover, industries 
falling under these categories propel economic growth by promoting development in the rural 
areas, thereby bringing in employment opportunities, decentralizing economic activities and 
redistributing wealth throughout the country.
In the 2016 Doing Business Report of the World Bank Group, the Philippines fared low
and ranked 165th out of 189 economies in terms of starting a business in the country, and 126th in 
terms of businesses paying taxes. Among the factors considered in measuring the ranking were 
all the procedures officially required or commonly practiced by an entrepreneur to start up and 
formally operate an industrial or commercial business -  as well as the time and cost required to 
complete these procedures.2
Percentage tax is a business tax imposed on persons or entities who sell or lease goods, 
properties or services in the course of trade or business. Section 116 of the National Internal 
Revenue Code of 1997 (NIRC), as amended, imposed a three percent (3%) percentage tax on 
persons or entities whose gross annual sales or receipts are exempt from the payment of value- 
added tax (VAT) as provided under Section 109 (1)(W) of the NIRC, and who are not VAT- 
registered.
MSEs whose gross annual sales or receipts do not exceed PI,919,500 are exempt from 
the payment of VAT, however they are still liable to pay the three percent (3%) percentage tax. 
By the nature of percentage tax as a business tax, its imposition may be more burdensome than 
VAT because the liability to pay and the burden of the said tax may fall on one and the same 
person or entity.
Aside from the burden of paying the percentage tax, MSEs also find it difficult to comply 
with the complicated requirements of existing tax laws and regulations for the payment of taxes. 
This would entail additional cost of doing business and such cost may be substantial to some 
taxpayers especially to small businessmen and entrepreneurs.
This bill seeks to exempt MSEs from the payment of percentage tax by repealing Section 
116 of the NIRC on Tax on Persons Exempt from VAT. The purpose and intent of this proposed
1 2014 MSME Statistics, Department of Trade and Industry (http://www.dti.gov.pK)
2 Doing Business Report 2016 (http://www.doingbusiness.org)
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
of ; h : 
n r t n i  u
SENATE
S. B. No. 
1 . 9 5 9
*18 
AUG 30 All :02
RLLI .
if-
INTRODUCED BY SENATOR JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO
AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR A COMPREHENSIVE NUCLEAR REGULATION, CREATING 
FOR THE PURPOSE, THE PHILIPPINE NUCLEAR REGULATORY 
COMMISSION, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR
EXPLANATORY NOTE
In 1958, Republic Act No. 2067 created the Philippine Atomic Energy 
Commission (PAEC) to conduct or cause the performance of research and 
development relating to nuclear science. The PAEC was transformed into the Philippine 
Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI) in 1987 and was attached to the Department of 
Science and Technology b virtue of Executive Order No. 128. The PNRI is mandated 
to perform both regulatory and promotion of nuclear processes and techniques.
Concurrently, the Center for Device Regulation, Radiation Health and Research 
of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA-CDRRHR), created by virtue of Republic Act 
No. 9711, is tasked to control and regulate x-rays and other electrically-generated 
radiation devices.
There has been concerns on the dual responsibilities of PNRI relating to 
regulation and promotion The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), to which 
the Philippines is a member, states in its Governmental, Legal and Regulatory 
Framework for Safety that "where several authorities are involved, the government 
shall specify clearly the responsibilities and functions of each authority within the 
governmental, 
legal and regulatory framework for safety." It also requires 
governments to "establish and maintain a regulatory body that is effectively 
independent in its decision making and that has functional separation from entities 
having responsibilities or interests that could unduly influence its decision making."
In this regard, there is a need to establish a single agency which shall reflect 
internationally acceptable practices and to ensure that the Philippines adheres to its 
obligations and commitments under international agreements. Additionally, the
li
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUB Lie OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Second Regular Session 
)
\ 
^ r n a t f
(iffir* of
« 
iLN 23 T .t6
SENATE
SENATE BILL NO. 1663
R F C E IV B D  BY:
'V i
, J if
■■ ■
INTRODUCED BY SENATOR JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO
AN ACT ESTABLISHING A MEDICAL SCHOLARSHIP AND RETURN 
SERVICE 
PROGRAM 
FOR 
DESERVING 
STUDENTS 
AND 
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The 1987 Philippine Constitution provides for the inviolable right of every 
Filipino to health and the State's crucial role in protecting and promoting this 
right.
At present, the Department of Health has reported that the current ratio of 
government physicians to the population is 1:16,000. This is beyond the ideal 
and target of one physician per 10,000 population and shows the shortage of 
health workers in the government.
The proposed measure seeks to establish a Medical Scholarship and Return 
Service Program that will help deserving medical students pursue medical 
education and training in the field of health and medicine. These scholars shall 
eventually render services in government public health offices or government 
hospitals, as part of their integration into the public health and medical service 
system.
Further, it is the ultimate goal of the State to achieve a universal health care for 
all its citizens. This goal should be coupled with the availability of equipped 
health practitioners in every local government unit.
This proposed bill shall ensure the availability of doctors who will provide 
quality and efficient health care in every municipality in the country, especially
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
FIRST REGULAR SESSION 
)
of 
i;
•16 
AUG 25 
All :27
SENATE
SENATE BILL NO. 1098 
Kl r: ■ 
T^Y
INTRODUCED BY SENATOR JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO
AN ACT
AMENDING 
PRESIDENTIAL 
DECREE 
NO. 
1829, 
PENALIZING 
OBSTRUCTION OF APPREHENSION AND PROSECUTION OF CRIMINAL 
OFFENDERS
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Because of the failure to report actual crimes as well as other important 
incidents that may otherwise lead to the successful apprehension and prosecution of 
criminals to the proper authorities many crimes remains unpunished.
This bill proposes to amend Presidential Decree No. 1829, Penalizing 
Obstruction of Apprehension and Prosecution of Criminal Offenders, to elicit a 
positive duty from every individual to actively participate in promoting peace and 
order by including the following acts as obstruction of justice:
1. Failing to report stolen or lost firearms to the proper authorities;
2. Failing to report carnapped motor vehicles or lost munber plates of 
motor vehicles to the proper authorities;
3. Having knowledge of or witnessed a crime, concealing and not making 
known such crime to the proper authorities; and
4. Failing to give needed testimony in court on a crime.
To obstruct justice is to deny justice and commit a crime against the law. For 
this and the foregoing reasons, the passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E  
S.B. No. 1 11 n
(S(Urt of tfiejih’treiarjj
'16 AUG 30 A 9 :22
K  ? '  ■
' C»Y:
Introduced by Senator Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III
AN ACT
AMENDING SECTION 8 OF 
PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 910, S. 1976 
(CREATING AN ENERGY DEVELOPMENT BOARD, 
DEFINING ITS POWERS AND FUNCTIONS, PROVIDING 
FUNDS, THEREFOR, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES)
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Section 8 of Presidential Decree No. 910, s. 1976 (P.D. 910) 
provides the President with plenary power to use the proceeds of a 
Special Fund for the purpose of financing government energy resource 
development and exploitation projects and for such other purposes as he 
may direct.
This Special Fund (“Fund”) is composed of collections and 
government shares that are credited and booked under a special account 
managed by the Bureau of Treasury. The funds are sourced and 
collected through the Department of Energy from government shares 
representing royalties and rentals, as well as production shares on 
service contracts and other payments on the exploration, development, 
and exploitation of energy resources. Part of this Fund is the Malampaya 
Fund, which is remitted from Shell Philippines Exploration, the private 
firm that operates the Malampaya natural gas platform in Palawan.
In recent years the Fund has been involved in controversies such as 
the P900 million portion of the Fund that was allocated to the 
Department of Agrarian Reform and allegedly siphoned off to finance 
bogus non-government organizations by Janet Lim-Napoles and the 
allegation that the Fund merely sits in the coffers of the Bureau of
m
.cSPfSu
>enah-
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
SENATJ
S.B. No. h27
•16 
SEP - g  
p 2 ;3 7
l< i (
" V if1'
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT
STRENGTHENING THE PRACTICE OF ELEaRICAL ENGINEERING IN THE PHILIPPINES AND 
INSTITUTING HIGHER STANDARDS OF REGULATION IN THE LICENSING AND REGISTRATION 
OF ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING PRACTITIONERS
EXPLANATORY NQTF
For many Filipinos, life would grind to a halt without lights, charged gadgets, TV sets 
refrigerators, and microwave ovens. 
'
Homes, hospitals, and offices are reliant on electricity and, on a grand scale our 
country s macroeconomic growth and development is dependent on the effective and safe 
transmission of energy throughout industries and our communities.
It IS apparent that the chain from power generation to electrical installation needs to 
be supported, monitored, and held up to rigorous standards of quality and reliability.
While a current regulatory framework is in place for electrical engineering in the 
country, elevabng the standards of the profession and ensuring that our Filipino electricai 
engineers can build a promising career in the Philippines.
With the Philippine Electric Engineering Bill, we hope to enhance learning, licensing 
testing, and practicing in the field of electrical engineering.
Th'^ proposal also endeavors to bridge the gap between education and employment 
by strengthening the relationship between the academe and the industry to make certain 
that our graduates are well equipped for the jobs available in the market.
As we go about our lives enjoying the convenience technology and industries 
provide, let us not forget the men and women that make this accessible.
^Let US reaf^irm the value of our Fi|ipino electrical engineers by empowering them 
« l i engUcaareer 3nd S
M
S  deVel° pment at par with ^'obal standards and assuring them of a