bettergovph/raw-philippine-data huggingface dataset:
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s. No. 
797
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o f  (fi? 
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'16 
JUL21 
P 2 : 0 9
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V
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto
AN ACT
REMOVING THE CONDITIONS FOR THE CONDONATION OF ALL UNPAID 
INCOME TAXES DUE FROM LOCAL WATER DISTRICTS, AMENDING FOR THE 
PURPOSE SECTION 289-A OF THE NATIONAL INTERNAL REVENUE CODE, AS 
AMENDED
Explanatory Note
Presidential Decree (P.D.) No. 198 institutionalized the concept oi Local Water Districts 
(LWDs). As early as 1973, the government recognized the need for reliable, economically 
viable and sound water supply and wastewater disposal system for population centers of the 
Philippines.
In order to support the growth of LWDs, P.D. No. 198 exempted them from paying 
income taxes, as well as from the payment of all national government, local government and 
municipal taxes and fees, and all duties or imposts on imported machinery, equipment and 
materials required for its operation.
Over a period of more than three decades, several laws were enacted either granting or 
withdrawing the tax exemption privileges of LWDs. Also, the juridical personality and tax status 
of LWDs, as gleaned from the provisions of Sections 27 and 32 of the Tax Code, have been 
subjected to various interpretations by government agencies and judicial bodies. Even more 
disconcerting is the fact that other public utilities of similar nature such as the Metropolitan 
Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) and National Power Corporation (NPC) were 
granted tax exemptions by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) based upon the same Tax Code 
provisions.
During the Fourteenth Congress, Republic Act (R.A.) No. 10026 was enacted with the 
end in view of resolving the inconsistencies in tax treatment that have probably hampered the 
growth and efficient provision of safe, adequate and potable water to more than fifteen (15) 
million people outside Metro Manila. Thus, R.A. No. 10026 ineluded LWDs in the list of 
government agencies exempt from the payment of income taxes and also allowed the 
condonation of their tax liabilities.
However, R.A. No. 10026 provided that unpaid taxes will only be condoned subject to 
certain conditions, to wit: (1) that the BIR, after careful review of the financial statements of a 
water district applying for condonation of taxes due, establishes its financial incapacity; and (2) 
that the water district availing of such condonation shall submit to Congress a program of 
internal reforms, duly certified by the Local Water Utilities Administration. The condonation 
therefore, is not automatic but, rather is dependent on certain requirements which LWDs must 
comply with.
It will be noted that the Bureau of Internal Revenue has not issued a Revenue Regulation 
(RR) to implement the grant of condonation as per RA No. 10026. What was issued two years 
after the enactment of the law was Revenue Memorandum Circular .68-2012 which merely
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES) 
First Regular Session)
' 
(0i(i||>, of tf|i>i;};irrrr).ir(i
■16 
1IL26 
A 9:49
SENATE
SENATE BILL NO. 894
rW:
INTRODUCED BY SENATOR JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO
AN ACT TO PROVIDE FOR A HOUSING PROGRAM FOR TEACHERS
EXPLANATORY NOTE
We are faced with a great challenge to provide decent and affordable shelter for 
the many that remain homeless in our country.
This bill aims to help our public school teachers have the opportunity to own 
their house and lot, to upgrade their living conditions and most importantly, help the 
education sector as a whole.
This bill seeks to institute a housing program for teachers by providing funds 
through loans at affordable interest and long-term repayment period, which our 
teachers can use to purchase a housing unit of their own choice. It also seeks to involve 
the private sector in providing housing units exclusively for teachers through the grant 
of fiscal incentives.
In view of the foregoing, the passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO 
SENATOR
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
(^pnatp
(Sffirt of U je ^ rrrrfa ru
*16 JUL20 P3:10
SENATE
S.B. No. 662
RKCLIvi;; * BY:
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "B am " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT INSTITUTIONALIZING THE GRANT OF STUDENT FARE DISCOUNT PRIVILEGES ON LAND, 
WATER AND AIR TRANSPORT UTILITIES AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
In many areas of the country, particularly in rural towns, students must walk up to five 
kilometers each way to get to school. A daily tricycle ride, the only alternative, would be too 
costly. However, with our climate that brings either torrential rains or, extreme heat, the long 
and arduous walk sometimes spells the difference between pursuing and halting one's 
education.
To give all Filipino students an equal opportunity to an excellent education, this bill 
proposes to strengthen the mandate for student discounts on transport fares. Under this act, 
students with valid proof of enrolment to an educational institution must be granted a 20% 
discount on all land, water and air transportation all throughout the year.
Additionally, this bill seeks to impose stricter penalties for transport providers who do 
not honor student fares with the help of a hotline through which complaints may be coursed.
Through this mandate, our most underprivileged students stand to benefit from 
reasonable transportation costs that will be applicable even on weekends and holidays during 
which students often have extra-curricular activities related to enriching their education.
The inclusion of air and sea transportation will facilitate students' access to learning not 
only in the classroom but also around the Philippine islands, across our region, and beyond.
In view thereof the passage of this bill is earnestly requested.
Senator Padllo Benigno "H am " A. Aquino iV
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES ) 
First Regular Session 
)
S. No.
SENATE
512
IlitS
.'16 JUL19 P2 -12
i’i
r’Y:
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” Trillanes IV
AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR THE PROTECTION AND CONSERVATION OF ALL OBJECTS 
UNDERWATER CULTURAL HERITAGE IN PHILIPPINE WATERS
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Underwater eultural heritage is an integral part of the Filipinos' national pride. It is 
particularly an important element in our history and our relationship with other countries as 
well. Experts, however, calculate that indiscriminate diggings and underwater explorations 
have exposed our cultural and historical sites to desecration and our priceless cultural 
artifacts to destruction.
This bill, therefore, seeks to protect and conserve future underwater archeological discoveries 
by providing a statutory mechanism for a pemiit system on underwater exploration and 
excavation, and assigning the National Museum as the lead agency in implementing the 
provisions of this Act.
Some salient features of this bill are as follows:
1. The Director of the National Museum shall be given powers to implement 
guidelines and issue permits to explore or excavate any underwater site for 
protected underwater cultural properties in Philippine Waters.
2. It outlaws diving, marking, use of explosives other than shaped charges, and 
use of a pressure air hose, water hose or vacuum hose within a protected zone 
or a non-protected zone to recover objects of underwater cultural heritage.
3. Any person who discovers, by chance, any object of underwater cultural 
heritage is obliged to report his/her find to the National Museum or any of its 
branches within seven days from knowledge of its potential scientific, cultural, 
archaeological, paleontological or historical value.
In view of the foregoing, approval of this bill is strongly recommended.
ANTON
T ^ L L A l
ILLANES IV
Senator
SEVENTEETH CONGRESS OF THE} 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES } 
F irst R egular Session 
}
S E N A T E  
S.B. No. 
222
ifl TIME; 
^ :e>7 ^ l/V|
BILLS A/ih
In tro d u ced  by SENATOR VICENTE C. SOTTO HI
AN ACT
AMENDING SECTION 150 OF REPUBLIC ACT 7160, OTHERWISE 
KNOWN AS "THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT CODE OF 1991"
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Before the enactment of Republic Act No. 7160, otherwise known as 
"The Local Government Code of 1991," a common complaint of local 
government officials concerned the practice of permitting businesses with 
principal offices in Metro Manila to pay their business taxes in the latter 
despite the fact that most of their earnings come from their operations in the 
provinces, cities or municipalities outside Metro Manila.
The Local Government Code of 1991 provided the solution of the 
foregoing grievances of the local government officials concerned. However, 
from the time of its effectivity on 01 January 1992, most local government 
units outside Metro Manila were left behind by those inside the metropolis 
with respect to providing basic services, development, and economic growth.
More than fifteen (15) years have passed, yet there are local 
government units which did not advance in their income, infrastructure 
developments and basic services facilities and equipment. This bill seeks to 
address this scenario by proposing an amendment to the Local Government 
Code of 1991, specifically the provision on the "Situs of the Tax" under 
Section 150 thereof.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N
Senate Bill
Introduced by S enator C ynthia A. V illa r
AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR THE PRESERVATION, REFORESTATION, AFFORESTATION AND 
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF MANGROVE FORESTS IN THE PHILIPPINES, 
PROVIDING PENALTIES THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Mangrove forests are considered one of the most productive and fertile 
ecosystems in the world. Many of our people living in coastal communities lived, fished 
and hunted in the mangroves for ages, deriving from them important commodities such 
as food, fuel, timber, medicine and building materials. Mangrove forests also served as 
“shelterbelt” because they can cushion the impact of strong winds and provide protection 
against soil erosion. With its extensive air root system, mangrove forests are able to 
stabilize shorelines and protect inshore nutrients from adjacent areas. More important, 
mangrove forests serve as natural nurseries or breeding places for a large number of 
commercially important marine species.
Through the years, 
we have witnessed the 
rapid decline of our mangrove 
forests, which could be attributed to the “open access” of the present system that causes 
the over-population of resources found within the forests. This is intensified by the lack 
of technical understanding of management, especially among local government 
executives and community residents living along the coasts.
This measure proposes to establish reservation areas in all coastal areas in each 
municipality of the country solely for the preservation, protection, reforestation, 
afforestation and sustainable development of mangrove forests. 
In setting aside 
portions of land for mangroves, we can ensure that our people will continue to enjoy the 
benefits accorded by this important ecosystem. This bill will also penalize the destruction 
and cutting of mangrove trees, as well as the dumping of waste products within the 
reservation areas. Furthermore, the measure makes the offender pay for the expenses 
that will be incurred for the restoration or rehabilitation of the mangrove areas that will be 
damaged or destroyed.
In view thereof, early approval of this bill is earnestly recommended
C Y N T H IA  A . V I L L A R
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SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s. No. 578
*16 
JUL ,19 
P 5 :0 4
' t.-p  n v ;
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillaiics IV
AN ACT
REQUIRING THE CONCURRENCE OF THE SENATE OF THE PHILIPPINES IN 
ANY INTERNATIONAL AGREEMENT PROVIDING FOR THE DEPLOYMENT 
ABROAD 
OF 
PHILIPPINE 
MILITARY 
TROOPS 
WHETHER 
FOR 
PEACEKEEPING MISSIONS OR COMBAT OPERATIONS PURSUANT TO 
ARTICLE VII, SECTION 21 OF THE CONSTITUTION
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Among the powers of the President of the Philippines as the Chief Exeeutive of the land, is to 
act on behalf of our country in its dealing and relations with other countries. As such, he 
exercises the treaty-making power. This power is not, however, absolute because Article VII, 
Section 21 of the Constitution provides that, "No treaty or international agreement shall be 
valid and effective unless concurred in by at least two-thirds of all the Members of the 
Senate."
The primary objective of the above-cited constitutional provision is to ensure that any 
international commitment made by the President, whether under bilateral or multilateral 
arrangements, does not go against our national security and interests, and that Philippine 
sovereignty is at all times upheld.
This bill is, therefore, being introduced to re-assert the power and to discharge the 
responsibility of the Legislature, acting through the Senate, as vested under the Constitution, 
to review any international agreement providing for the deployment abroad of Filipino 
troops, whether for peacekeeping missions or combat operations, and regardless of the size or 
number thereof.
The bill will also cover international agreements involving other fonns of military assistance 
such as military equipment and munitions which may be requested from the Philippines.
On the other hand, the sending of medical missions to a war-tom country for humanitarian 
reasons, whether composed of Philippine government persoimel or private volunteer groups, 
is not covered under the bill, provided the same is effected through the Philippine National 
Red Cross and coordinated with the International Red Cross.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES )
FIRST REGULAR SESSION 
)
SENATE
S. B. NO. 
158
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. RECEIVED _
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XP TIME:
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BY:
bills «UNdE)S.
INTRODUCED BY SENATOR JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO
AN ACT PROVIDING FOR A FULL TUITION SUBSIDY FOR STUDENTS 
ENROLLED IN STATE UNIVERSITIES AND COLLEGES (SUCs), AND 
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Budget Allocation to basic education has been getting a 
substantial share in the national expenditures and has continued to 
increase over the years. It has gone from 12.3% of the National budget in 
2009 to 14.4% in 2016. Whereas, the subsidy provided to SUCs't^y the 
National Government (NG) has remained at lower levels. Since 2005 to date, 
the SUCs' share of the NG budget has never gone beyond the 2% mark 1
Allocation for capital outlay of SUCs (fund for the construction of 
additional classrooms and equipment) has been nil for the past 15 years, 
with the exception in 2013-2014. No funds for additional faculty and 
administrative personnel for the increasing number of students enrolling in 
the SUCs since the 80’s. The budget of SUCs now is on the same level as the 
budget in the early 80’s (in real terms) where the student population was 
still about 30% of what we have today.
According to FY 2014 data, the estimated annual government cost per 
student in an SUC is at an average of P21,000. This drives SUC to internally 
generate their own income through the collection of tuition fees and through 
grants and donations, among others, to sustain the cost of their operations. 
In 2014, income collected by 114 SUC’s nationwide from tuition fees 
amounted to P7.9 Billion while other income collected from students totaled 
P4.7 Billion2. Tuition fees that form part of students' out-of-pocket expenses 
for their college education range from as low as PI2 to as high as P1,000 per 
unit and are expected to increase further to adjust for inflation. These' fees 
become one of the compelling reasons that discourage some students to 
pursue and finish tertiary education.
1 Budget Facts and Figures Vol. 2. Jan-Mar 2014, Legislative Budget Research and Monitoring Office
2 Data from CHED
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
)
SENATE 
S. No. _0_3
ill) TIME:
BILLS &
Introduced by Senator Antonio ^Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
TO DEFINE THE MARITIME ZONES OF THE REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Article I of the 1987 Philippine Constitution declares that:
"The national territory eomprises the Philippine arehipelago, with all the islands and 
waters embraced therein, and all other territories over which the Philippines has 
sovereignty or jurisdiction, consisting of its terrestrial, fluvial and aerial domains, 
including its territorial sea, the seabed, the subsoil, the insular shelves, and other 
submarine areas. The waters around, between, and connecting the islands of the 
archipelago, regardless of their breadth and dimensions, form part of the internal 
waters of the Philippines. ”
Pursuant to the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), of which 
the Philippines is a signatory and a party, our country and other coastal States has been 
recognized to have the right to establish various maritime zones and jurisdictions over which 
sovereignty and appurtenant sovereign rights can be exercised. Given the premise, this bill 
seeks to have a general declaration and definition of the maritime zones under the jurisdiction 
of the Philippines.
This proposed legislation aims to preserve and protect the country’s maritime rights, as it 
mentions in general terms the rights that the Philippines may exercise over its maritime 
zones.
Establishing the extent of the limits of the maritime zone of the Philippine archipelago 
practically averts any unnecessary dispute with vessels of foreign states entering the 
Philippine maritime territory without our permission.
In view of the foregoing, the immediate approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
ANTOiyiO'‘‘SONNY” F. TRILLANES IV
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
' ' '
(O ilite  n( l l i r , " ■ I I *"■ y
*16 
AU6-1 
P I  :47
S.B. No
SENATE
aso
H i  ’
’y\ :
Introduced by Senator SONNY ANGARA
AN ACT
AUTHORIZING WIRE TAPPING IN CASES INVOLVING VIOLATIONS OF REPUBLIC ACT 
NO. 9165, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE “ COMPREHENSIVE DANGEROUS DRUGS ACT 
OF 2002” , AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SECTION 3 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 4200, 
ENTITLED “AN ACT TO PROHIBIT AND PENALIZE WIRE TAPPING AND OTHER 
RELATED VIOLATIONS OF THE PRIVACY OF COMMUNICATION, AND FOR OTHER
PURPOSES”
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The crisis on illegal drugs continues to plague the country and its deveiopment by 
persistently perverting the youth and other individuals through abuse and addiction to these 
substances that destroy not only their health, but also their aspirations for the future. According 
to the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB), there are approximately 1.7 million illegal drug users in 
the country as of 2012 that causes 1,700 deaths annually due to their drug abuse.
Throughout the Philippines, close to 8,700 barangays are affected by the problem on 
illegal drugs based from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA). Worse, the United 
Nations (UN) 2015 World Drug Report has observed a new trend of African-produced 
methamphetamine being smuggled into the Philippines through its airports for subsequent 
distribution in Southeast Asia, which in effect makes the country as a transshipment site for 
iliegal drugs in the ASEAN region.
It is apparent that the problem on illicit drugs has amplified as it now causes the rapid 
decay of our country and its reputation globally. This proposed measure aims to authorize 
wiretapping in cases involving violations of Republic Act No. 9165, otherwise known as the 
Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 to effectively crackdown on drug traffickers and 
dealers.
Considering the assistance of this proposed legislation would provide to law 
enforcement authorities in promptly apprehending and solving cases of drug dealing and/or 
trafficking individuals and groups, an immediate passage of this measure is earnestly sought.
SONNY ANGARA
o f f lje ^ ? r r t< a r ;i
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
r e p u b l ic  o f  t h e  PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
)))
*16 JUL19 P5:20
KF'-’::fV. ■: RY:
SENATE 
S. No.
/
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
PRESCRIBING EVERY SECOND SUNDAY OF SEPTEMBER AS A NATIONAL 
COASTAL CLEAN-UP DAY IN THE COUNTRY
EXPLANATORY NOTE
•ae Philippine Archipelago is one of the largest 
Cs^ n 0sSe1tat
ro?r.“tv.;is:or;etsrs=^
Articlp 12 Section 2 of the 1987 Constitution mandates that, "the State shall protect die 
food and source of living.
resources thru prcgrams and activities that would promote preventtou of water pollutton.
In view of the forcgoiug, immediate approval of this measure is earnestly sought.
ANTONDD^ONN"^ F. TRlj^LANES IV
r  
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E  
S. B. No. ,^ 8 f)
*16 
I'JL 21 All -36
HI
T |y;
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT
PROVIDING A SYSTEM OF EXTENDING NO-COLLATERAL, LOW-INTEREST 
LOANS TO GRADUATES OF ANY COURSES OFFERED BY THE TECHNICAL 
EDUCATION AND SKILLS AUTHORITY OR DULY ACCREDITED LEARNING 
INSTITUTIONS WITH APPROVED OVERSEAS JOB CONTRACTS
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Many, if not all, graduates of various eourses offered by the Technical Education and 
Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and other learning institutions loose opportunities in 
foreign eountries as Overseas Filipino Workers due to the inability to raise the funds neeessary to 
defer placement fees or travel expenses therefore.
In that score, this bill proposes a speeial loan for graduates of TESDA and other 
educational institutions duly accredited by the Commission on Higher Education with approved 
overseas jobs contract. It is proposed that with the necessary credit facilities these graduates will 
be able to defray the cost of securing employment in foreign countries.
Hence, the approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session
)
SENATE 
S.B. No. 
3 1 7
Introduced by Senator SONNY ANGARA
AN ACT
REDUCING THE CORPORATE INCOME TAX RATE, AMENDING SECTIONS 27 AND 28 OF 
THE NATIONAL INTERNAL REVENUE CODE OF 1997,
AS AMENDED, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This bill seeks to amend Sections 27 and 28 of the National Internal Revenue Code of 
1997, as amended, by gradually reducing the rate of corporate income tax over a three-year 
period beginning January 1,2017.
This bill was originally filed in the 16lh Congress, and is part of a twin measure to reduce 
the country's income tax rates for individuals and corporations in consideration of the 
Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) Integration which seeks to transform ASEAN 
into a single market and production base effective 2016.
The Philippines currently holds the distinction of having the highest corporate income tax 
rate at 30 percent. When the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) Declaration was signed in 
2007, some member-states began to lower their corporate income tax rates. Thailand gradually 
reduced its corporate income tax rate from 30 percent in 2011 to 
23 percent in 2012, and 
down to 20 percent in 2013. Vietnam also lowered its corporate income tax rate from 25 percent 
to 22 percent last year and further reduced it to 20 percent starting this year. The differentiated 
tax rates would inevitably swing the pendulum as investors and taxpayers shift from a high-tax 
jurisdiction to a low-tax jurisdiction. At present, the average rate among the ASEAN countries is 
at 22.5 percent, with Singapore having the lowest at 17 percent.
In order for the Philippines to become more competitive in the region, it is imperative that 
we reduce this stumbling block. A recent study by Dr. Stella Quimbo of the UP School of 
Economics showed that while a decrease in corporate income tax rate will initially lead to lower 
corporate income tax collection, the offset will come in the form of greater net collections given 
the projected increase in investments when corporate income tax rates are reduced. The study 
showed that a percentage point reduction in tax rates will lead to P30.6 billion increase in 
investments. Instead of looking at the possible revenue loss, the government must regard the 
reduction in corporate income tax rates as a means to attract foreign direct investments and 
boost job generation in the country.
In view of the foregoing, immediate approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
ANGARA
SEVENTHEETH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
TIME:
BILLS &
S E N A T E
Senate Biil No. 140
Introduced by Senator CYNTHIA A. VILLAR
AN ACT PROVIDING FOR FREE IRRIGATION SERVICES TO FARMERS, 
AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 3601, AS AMENDED, AND
FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
In the Philippines, the key to achieve food security and poverty alleviation is to increase farm 
productivity and lower production costs. Irrigation and its cost has played a crucial role in 
enhancing productivity in rice growing areas in the country and in Asia.
The National Irrigation Administration (NIA) was created by law in 1963 primarily to address 
the needs of the "Irrigation Age", and specifically to, "investigate and study all available and 
possible water resources in the Philippines, primarily for irrigation purposes; to plan, design, 
construct and/or improve all types of irrigation projects and appurtenant structures" (Section 
2, R.A. 3601, as amended by P.O. 552 and P.D. 1702). For this purpose, the NIA has been 
given the necessary flexibility of a corporate vehicle and the administrative autonomy to 
pursue its statutory objectives.
As of December 2013, about 1.678 million ha or 55.59 percent of the 3.126 million hectares 
have been developed for irrigation. Of the total area, about 740,213 ha or 24.5 percent are 
under National Irrigation System (NIS); 576,419 ha or 19.1 percent under Communal 
Irrigation System (CIS) that are farmer-managed; and 194,620 ha or 6.5 percent under 
privately owned systems that are constructed through private initiatives. (PIS)
In 2016, the budget of NIA is P44.5 billion for the expansion of irrigation across the country. 
The amount go towards Irrigation Network Services and Locally-funded Projects. NIA 
maintains two kinds of funds: Capital Outlay which is budgeted in the Annual General 
Appropriations Act and the Current Operating Budget which is internally generated.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S. B. No.
S E N A T E
765
(filfire of
*16 
JUL 21 
All -10
R[  ( 
f 
n Y:
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT
ORDAINING THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE DOWNSTREAM NATURAL GAS 
INDUSTRY, CONSOLIDATING FOR THE PURPOSE ALL LAWS RELATING 
TO THE TRANSMISSION, DISTRIBUTION AND SUPPLY OF NATURAL GAS
AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Natural gas is considered by many modern economies as the fuel of choice 
because of its abundance, dean-burning properties and versatility as a fuel source. 
With the successful launching of the Malampaya Deep Water Gas-to-Power Project 
on October 16, 2001 marked the birth of the country's natural gas industry. The 
Malampaya gas field discovery signaled a significant leap towards energy self- 
reliance as it now fuels about one-third of the country's total power generation. A 
total of 2700 MW of installed capacity of gas-fired power plants make use of the 
natural gas produced from Malampaya.
Aside from the use of natural gas for power generation, alternative 
applications in the transport sector is also being pursued. The launching of the 
Natural Gas Vehicle Program for Public Transport (NGVPPT) on October 16, 2002 
served as a bamier program for the use of natural gas in the transport sector.
Following the inauguration of the Malampaya Deep Water Gas-to- Power 
Project, government advocacy has been initiated to create an impetus to the 
development of the country's downstream natural gas industry. These are the (i) 
signing on January 18, 2002 by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo of Executive 
Order No. 66 designating the Department of Energy (DOE) as the lead agency for the 
development of the country's natural gas industry; and (ii) issuance on August 27, 
2002 by the DOE of the interim rules and regulations governing the transmission, 
distribution and supply sub-sectors of the natural gas industry.
However, both issuances are not sufficient to impart a clear, comprehensive 
and integrated regulatory framework that will provide direction and to accelerate 
the development of the country's nascent downstream natural gas sector.
As dynamic developments are taking place in this very young sector, it is 
imperative that conditions favorable to the establishment of the critical infrastructure 
and natural gas market are put in place to optimize economic efficiency and returns 
from the downstream natural gas industry.
f::.7
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
S. No.
))
)
614
( 9 f f i r t  o f  thejf f f t r l a r i i
M6 
JUL 19 
P 6 :0 4
Introduced by Sen. Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV 
[. r
AN ACT
REQUIRING THE PHILIPPINE HEALTH INSURANCE CORPORATION TO 
PROVIDE COVERAGE FOR THE DIAGNOSTIC SERVICES FOR BREAST AND 
CERVICAL CANCER, PROVIDING FUNDS THEREFOR, AND FOR OTHER 
PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Article II, Section 15 of the Constitution provides that the State shall protect and promote the right to 
health of the people and instill health consciousness among them. In pursuit of this poliey, it is the 
objective of the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) to continuously endeavor to 
improve its benefit package to meet the needs of its members. It is in this light that this bill seeks to 
provide eoverage for the diagnostic services for breast and cervical cancer.
Breast cancer and cervical cancer are the leading causes of cancer and cancer deaths in Filipino 
women. The Philippines is ranked first in breast cancer ineidence in Asia and has a higher prevalence 
rate than those in several Western countries, including Spain, Italy, and most eastern European 
countries. Based on the most recent data, relative survival rates for women diagnosed with breast 
cancer are: 88 percent at 5 years after diagnosis, 80 percent after 10 years, 71 percent after 15 years 
and 63 percent after 20 years. From 1990 to 2002, death rates have decreased. The decline has been 
attributed to both improvements in breast cancer treatment and early detection.1
Cervical cancer, also known as cancer of the cervix, is the second leading cause of death among 
Filipino women. Aecording to the 2005 Philippine Cancer Facts and Estimates, 7, 277 new cases and 
3,807 deaths due to cervical cancer were estimated to have occurred. This meant that there were 
approximately 10 Filipino women dying each day due to eervical cancer. This is mainly due to late 
detection and lack of awareness of the disease among Filipino women.2
Based on the above data, it is safe to deduce that there is a direct correlation between the time of 
deteetion and the odds for survival of women afflicted with these killer diseases. Thus, it is but urgent 
to include the periodic diagnostic services or breast cancer and cervical cancer in the benefit package 
under the PhilHealth. The intent of this measure rests on the premise that prevention and promotion of 
health services are essential for reducing the need and spending for personal health services.
In view of the foregoing circumstances, approval of this measure is earnestly sought.
ANTON
/ 
Senator
TRILLANES IV
1 B re a s t C a n c e r F a c t S h e e t. In f o n n a tio n  R e trie v e d  fr o m :  h tt p ://w w w .g s k c o m .p h ib e a s tc a n c e r .h tm l. R e trie v e d  o n  0 9  F e b ru a ry  2 0 0 9 .
2 In fo r m a tio n  r e tr ie v e d  fr o m :  h t t p : / / w w w . d o h . g o v . p h / n o d e l9 7 R 2 . R e trie v e d  o n  0 9  F e b ru a ry  2 0 0 9 .
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S. B. No. 213
DILLS/& INDEX
Introduced by SENATOR JOEL “TESDAMAN” VILLANUEVA
AN ACT PROVIDING FOR A REVISED APPRENTICESHIP 
PROGRAM, REPEALING FOR THE PURPOSE CHAPTERS I 
AND II OF TITLE II OF PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 442, AS 
AMENDED, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE LABOR CODE OF
THE PHILIPPINES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The apprenticeship program is one of the components of the 
enterprise-based training programs being implemented by the Technical 
Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). It involves a contract 
between an apprentice and an employer on an approved apprenticeable 
occupation. Generally, it aims to provide a mechanism that will ensure 
availability of qualified skilled workers based on industry requirements.
Based on data from TESDA, only 399 companies have registered 
apprenticeship and learnership programs as of March 2015. This low 
participation among employers points to the need to revise and strengthen 
the existing national apprenticeship program by repealing Chapters I and II of 
Title II of Presidential Decree No. 442, as amended, othenwise known as the 
Labor Code of the Philippines.
Under the existing program, the period of apprenticeship covers a 
minimum of three months and a maximum of six months. Only companies 
with approved and registered apprenticeship programs under TESDA can hire 
apprentices. The bill sets the duration of the training according to the 
complexity of the skills to be learned by the apprentices but it shall not exceed 
two (2) years. It also requires participating entities in the apprenticeship 
program to provide a disability and/or accident insurance policy in favor of the 
apprentices during the apprenticeship period.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
809
S. No.
of I h t
’16 JUL21 P2 23
HI < ;
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto
AN ACT
PROVIDING ADDITIONAL BENEFITS TO FAMILIES WITH DEPENDENTS, 
SUPPORTING SPOUSES, AGING PARENTS, AND PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES
Explanatory Note
Section 1, Article XV of our Constitution states that: “The State recognizes the Filipino 
family as the foundation of the nation. Accordingly, it shall strengthen its solidarity and actively 
promote its total development.”
The Family Care Act of 2016 seeks to uphold our Constitutional commitment by granting 
reprieves, and reducing social and economic inequalities of every family especially those with 
many children. This bill proposes to remove the limitation on the number of qualified dependents 
that a taxpayer may claim for tax deduction.
At present, a maximum of only four (4) qualified dependents may be claimed by qualified 
taxpayers as additional personal exemption at P25,000 per capita.
This cap on the number of dependents was established in 1973 under Presidential Decree 
No. 69. At that time, in addition to generating more revenues, the government was bent on 
promoting family planning that, in effect, encourages the number of children for each family to 
only four. However, as supported by some economists, setting a limitation on the number of 
dependents has no clear bearing on the decision of couples to beget children.
As a matter of fact, those in the higher income levels have fewer children than those in the 
lower income groups. According to the Commission on Population, most of those who have four 
or more children are in the lowest and second lowest wealth quartile. These groups are not even 
income taxpayers.
In order to harmonize the Tax Code provision with the Family Code of the Philippines, as 
amended by Republic Act No. 9858, this bill will also include the category of legitimated children 
in the scope of qualified dependent children, whereby a child conceived and bom outside of 
wedlock, under certain conditions, may be legitimated.
Consistent with Section 4, Article XV which states that: “The family has the duty to care 
for its elderly members but the State may also do so through just programs of social security,” this 
bill proposes to expand the coverage of qualified dependents to include parents or both parents 
with the following conditions:
(1) the parent or parents should not be gainfully employed, they should be living 
with the taxpayer, and dependent upon the taxpayer for chief support; or
(2) such parent or parents are incapable of self-support because of mental or 
physical disability.
■ 
'Cifire of f h t p i ' i u t  irji
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF TH E 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S. No. 581
'16 JUL 19 P5:13
H ! ( ,
!»vV;
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
REQUIRING THE USE OF SEATBELT DEVICES IN SCHOOL SERVICES, 
AMENDING 
FOR 
THIS 
PURPOSE 
REPUBLIC 
ACT 
NUMBERED 
8750, 
OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE SEATBELTS USE ACT OF 1999
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This bill seeks to amend Republic Act No. 8750, otherwise known as the Seatbelts Use Act of 
1999 by requiring all passengers and drivers of school services such as school buses to use 
their seatbelts.
Crash test and case study data indicate that seat belts provide improved crash protection and 
are especially beneficial in side-impact and rollover school bus accidents. Seat belts also 
reduce other types of injuries by restraining children who may otherwise be out of their seats. 
This also helps improve passenger behavior and reduce distractions to school bus drivers. In 
addition, seat belts provide another important benefit, namely, educating children as to seat 
belt use and reinforcing seat belt use in motor vehicles.
Although school services accidents are relatively rare in the country, when they do occur, 
innocent children wind up in casualties, and the whole community is affected. It is therefore 
imperative to promote the safety of our children by providing standards in their public 
transportation.
In view of the foregoing, approval of this measure is earnestly sought.
ANTONI
)NNY^F. TRILiANES IV
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPUJJES-^ 
)
First Regular Session 
‘ , 
)
SENATE
s.No. 472
« : i r B
>'„■ 
Outfitr «'f ti;r '.-rrrpt.Ky
‘16 JUL 19 All :23
i n ; ( ' f ; i v K i )  b y ;
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
REQUIRING MANDATORY COMPUTER EDUCATION IN ALL PUBLIC AND 
PRIVATE HIGH SCHOOLS AND FOR OTHER RELATED PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Computers play a vital role in education and in the movement and flow of information. 
Infonnation, when harnessed, brings about exchange of ideas and innovation, trade and 
commerce, and ultimately, development.
Computer education is no longer just a luxury which only first world countries can afford. In 
fact, it is now a necessity which would define the ability of a nation to join developed 
countries in this information age or choose to be forever banished in the dustbin of 
underdevelopment. It is, therefore, imperative to equip our students at least with basic skills 
in computer operation.
Hence, the proposal of this bill for mandatory computer education for all high school 
students. It is hoped that with critical training, together with knowledge and expertise gained 
from the use of computers and with our language skills, our workers and professionals would 
be able to maintain their competitive edge in the global marketplace and serve as the catalyst 
which would ultimately propel our country to first world status.
In view of the foregoing, the approval of this bill is earnestly requested.
ANTONIO ‘^ N N 3 ^ ’ F. TI^ILLANES IV
• 
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
.^enatr
iSl'fu* of i h t j r f r t c l a i y
•16 
JUL20 
P 3:17
SENAffpQ
S.B. No. 
O P O
HF ('Ki* 1 2 3 
1; !W:
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT
AMENDING REPUBLIC ACT NO. 6848, ALSO KNOWN AS "CHARTER OF AL-AMANAH 
ISLAMIC INVESTMENT BANK OF THE PHILIPPINES", AND PROVIDING FOR THE 
REGULATION AND ORGANIZATION OF AN EXPANDED ISLAMIC BANKING SYSTEM
IN THE PHILIPPINES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The lack of effective access to responsive financing is one of the main 
challenges to the growth and development of micro, small and medium enterprises 
(MSMEs) in the Philippines. This obstacle is doubly experienced by our Filipino 
Muslim entrepreneurs in the ARMM/Bangsamoro region and in different parts of the 
country with the absence of banking and financial services that are compliant with 
the principles of Shari'ah or Islamic law.
Islamic banking 
and finance involves 
the 
conduct 
of 
banking 
and finance operations consistent with the principles of Shari'ah or Islamic law. In 
compliance with the Shari'ah, this kind of banking and financing operations is 
characterized by risk-sharing and equitable distribution of wealth. Undertaking or 
financing of anti-social and unethical businesses, and the setting of interest or a fixed 
pre-determined rate of return are prohibited.
Islamic banking and finance in the Philippines is limited by three major 
challenges:
1) Lack of a clear and regulatory framework for Islamic banking and finance, 
where our existing laws do not provide for the policy infrastructure needed 
to enable Islamic banks to thrive and current tax laws also subject Islamic 
financing products to more taxes;
2) Lack or scarcity of experts on Islamic banking and finance; and
3) Lack or very low investor awareness and acceptance of Islamic banking and 
finance.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
FIRST REGULAR SESSION 
)
SENATE
Senate Bill No. 725
of the,JSiTrffaf
'16 JUL 20 P5:23
Introduced by SENATOR CYNTHIA A. VILLAR
AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR A  COMPREHENSIVE NURSING LAW  TOWARDS QUALITY 
HEALTH CARE SYSTEM, APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR 
OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
It is widely acknowledged that our Filipino nurses are the preferred healthcare 
workers in hospitals and other healthcare institutions around the globe for being 
efficient, hardworking, highly skilled, compassionate and caring.1 
Due to these 
outstanding qualities, there is a steady demand for our Filipino nurses for overseas 
work, particularly in thefunited States, United Kingdom and in Middle East countries. 
Once employed abroad, our nurses help fuel the Philippine economy with the 
remittances they send home for the support of their respective families. 
With their 
continuous emigration through the years, our Filipino nurses comprise the biggest 
service sector working group of Filipinos overseas2; and needless to say, they play a 
significant role of providing healthcare in the global arena.
Even with the extensive number and contributions of Filipino nurses abroad, 
the importance of the Filipino nurses working in the Philippine domestic setting are 
no less significant. 
Despite the modest salaries they receive and all other 
multifarious challenges they face working in hospitals and other health institutions 
here in the country, they continue to deliver the esteemed quality of nurse care, 
known to be inherent in our nurses. 
r1 •
The quality of education and the policies in the country have indeed prepared 
our nurses well to be efficient and globally competitive. The current law governing 
the nursing profession is Republic Act No. 9173 or the Philippine Nursing Act of 
2002, which was enacted for the protection and improvement of the nursing
1 http://asianjoumal.com/editorial/a-tribute-to-filipino-nurses-all-over-the-worid/
2 http://www.globalization101 .org/the-case-of-the-philippine-nurses/
^ \
of
rstaru
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S. No.
‘16 JUL 19 P4 59
ItKCC'v
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
TRANSFERRING THE PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE ACADEMY (PNPA), 
AND 
POLICE 
NATIONAL 
TRAINING 
INSTITUTE 
(PNTI) 
FROM 
THE 
PHILIPPINE PUBLIC SAFETY COLLEGE TO THE PHILIPPINE NATIONAL 
POLICE, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SECTIONS 66-67 OF REPUBLIC ACT 
NO. 6975, AS AMENDED
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Almost all countries with successful human resource development programs are adopting the 
best practice of organizing their police academies and training schools directly placed under 
the heads of police forces such as the United Kingdom, United States, Singapore, South 
Korea, Thailand and China. However, pursuant to Sections 66 and 67 of Republic Act No. 
6975 as amended, the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) and the Police National 
Training Institute (PNTI) and the National Police College (NPC) which conduct training to 
uniformed personnel of the Philippine National Police (PNP) are presently administered and 
controlled by the Philippine Public Safety College (PPSC), a separate and distinct bureau 
from the PNP.
The researches and studies performed by the PNP Reform Commission and the United 
Nations Development Programme revealed that the current set-up is ineffective and costly. 
The current structure allows lapses in coordination of training programs, and makes it 
difficult to develop a system for a well-developed plan and budget for training internal to the 
PNP. Further, there is mismatch between the PNP training expectations and requirements and 
the actual services provided by the PPSC.
Accordingly, the PPSC lacks accountability as to the quality of performance of police offieers 
who graduated from its training institutions. The PNP remains at the receiving end of vicious 
criticisms and oftentimes suffering the blame for bungled and failed police operations, 
unsolved crimes, and many other inadequacies. The ineffectiveness and inefficiency in the 
structure and system frequently result in unnecessary cost and waste of resources and efforts 
because the PNP conducts its own re-orientation and specialization training programs thus 
duplicating those of the PPSC.
SEVENTEETH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
FIRST REGULAR SESSION 
)
i Q i l i f t  of tt^r
'16 
AUG -1  
All
SENATE
SENATE BILL N 0 .9  3 9
V .V
T>V.
INTRODUCED BY SENATOR JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO
AN ACT
/T ?i?T ?ENGTHEN THE LAGUNA l a k e  d e v e l o p m e n t  a u t h o r it y
(LLDA), REPEALING FOR THIS PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO 4850 A 5 
AMENDED. OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE L A ^ J N A ^ l^ ^ L O P M E I^  
AUTHORITY ACT OF 1966, AND FOR OTHER PU RPO SK
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Laguna de Bay is the largesl inland body of water in the Philippines If
r
, r
eg^ ?  SU 
“  T Ca 0f 900km2' CurrenlIy- the vast natural resources 
of the lake is being used for fisheries, transport route, flood water reservoir
spzsf;;“:rw“
n' tai8aiion' mdustr,ai coo,ta^  
«
Repubhc Act No. 4850 entitled "An Act Creating t/ie Uguna Lake
f Z  U 
6. 
j  f y' / r SCriW"X "S P“" re' Functions 
Duties Providing 
Funds Vm for andjbr Other Purposes" is the first law enacted to promote and 
accelerate the development of the Uguna Uke. However, no^ ^ n l m l  
was mtroduced after forty (40) years since it was implemented.
of the Uin ^ m eekSlto strcngt^en the poUcy-making and regulatory powere 
of the LLDA to realize its vision of a self-sufficient and highly dynamic
elated  water resource management authority, with competent and
professional personnel who take the lead tla r d s  th e T u lL a b le  
development of Laguna de Bay. 
fu&tamaDie
flWRMl Pr0p0Sed to ad0pl an m ,cgrated " ‘■to resources management 
IWRM) approach, usmg the lake's watersheds as planning u L  to 
interconnect and mtegrate its various ecosystems.