bettergovph/raw-philippine-data huggingface dataset:
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E  
S. B. No. 
7 5 9
n
.
o f l l j e (5'vT f r f t . i r  y
*16 
JIJL 21 
All :03
H 1 I. 4:i . 
'W;
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT PROHIBITING MERCHANDISING STORES AND SERVICE 
ESTABLISHMENTS FROM CHARGING MORE THAN THE CASH RETAIL PRICE 
OF GOODS AND SERVICES PURCHASED WITH CREDIT CARDS AND 
PRESCRIBING PENALTIES FOR ANY VIOLATION THEREOF
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Consumer rights serve not only to protect citizens from unscrupulous practices 
of erring businesses, moreover it is our belief that strengthening these rights will also 
lead to more consumer confidence and thus more robust consumer spending — a prime 
driver of our economy.
In this regard, the use of credit cards by consumers has become wider over the 
years. However, this has not been without its challenges. In particular, it has been the 
practice of some merchandising stores and service establishments to charge a different, 
albeit higher price, for items bought using credit cards; or to limit bargain sale items 
and services to those made with cash purchases. This means that merchants are passing 
on the cost of processing fees charged to them by credit card companies to the 
consumers.
This not only burdens consumers, but m fact discriminates against those who 
cannot pay in cash upon purchase. But whether or not a consumer chooses to pay in 
cash or charge, he or she should only pay the price indicated in the price tag - no 
distinction should be made as to the mode of payment. Such is the right of the 
consumer.
This measure is thus being proposed to level the playing field. 
While we 
acknowledge the right of big businesses to take the necessary steps to ensure 
profitability, this should never be taken to mean that consumers shall bear the burden 
of these enterprises in doing business. The consumer, as they say, is king. This 
measure intends to help big businesses understand and accept this fact.
In light of the foregoing, urgent passage of this bill is proposed.
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session
S E N ^ p  
5.B. 
0  4 /7
DATE:
xP TIME:
BILLS
Introduced by Senator Poe
AN ACT
STRENGTHENING THE OFFICE OF THE OMBUDSMAN THROUGH FURTHER 
PROFESSIONALIZATION, IMPROVEMENT OF SKILLS AND AUGMENTING 
THE LIVING CONDITIONS OF ITS EMPLOYEES, AMENDING FOR THE 
PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NUMBER 6770, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE 
OMBUDSMAN ACT OF 1989, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
Explanatory Note
“Public office is a public trust” is a hallmark edict of the 1987 Philippine 
Constitution. Its significance is mirrored further in a Constitutional guarantee that “[pjublic 
officers and employees must at all times be accountable to the people, serve them with utmost 
responsibility, integrity, loyalty, and efficiency , act with patriotism and justice, and lead 
modest lives.”
Although the above precepts are laudable, the pervasiveness of graft and corruption 
remains real and rampant in the Philippines. It was noted in a report by the Commission on 
Audit that the government lost PhplOl.816 billion to graft and corruption in 2011 alone. In 
the same study, it cited that “unauthorized/irregular/unnecessary expenses, unliquidated cash 
advances, 
violations 
of the 
Procurement Act, 
underassessment/under collection, 
unutilized/ineffective projects and lack of appropriation constituted the most number of cases 
where the public coffers suffered unwarranted loss.”
The Office of the Ombudsman is mandated to investigate on its own, or upon a 
complaint by any person, any act or omission of any public official, employee, office or 
agency, when such act or omission appears to be illegal, unjust, improper, or inefficient. 
Though zealous, the men and women of the Office of the Ombudsman, themselves 
government officials and employees, are not spared from challenges brought about by 
numerous harassment suits filed against them by disgruntled respondents. Moreover, their 
personal safety and the safety of their family are at constant risk due to the high-profile cases 
they are handling.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
•... 
'firfc of tlif.r'’ ■ ( i !', i 't
*16 
AUG - 1  
Ail :24
SENATE
s.No. 923
H!
■V:
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto
AN ACT
LOWERING THE TAX RATE ON CAPITAL GAINS FROM THE SALE, EXCHANGE 
OR OTHER DISPOSITION OF REAL PROPERTY, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE 
SECTIONS 24 (D) (1) AND 27 (D) (5) OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8424, OTHERWISE 
KNOWN AS THE NATIONAL INTERNAL REVENUE CODE OF 1997, AS AMENDED 
AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES 
’
Explanatory Note
Transferring of land titles in the Philippines can be a cumbersome exercise. There are too 
many factors to consider such as the payment of applicable national and local taxes and not to 
mention the usual delays in transacting with different government agencies. With respect to 
national taxes, if the subject property is a capital asset, the seller must first file before the Bureau 
of Internal Revenue (BIR) the appropriate tax returns and pay the capital gains tax and 
documentary stamp tax. As for local taxes, the seller has to pay a local transfer tax before the 
local government unit where the property is located.1
At present, the Tax Code imposes a six percent (6%) capital gains tax (CGT) on 
individual taxpayers on the sale, exchange or other disposition of real property based on the 
gross selling price or current fair market value, whichever is higher.2 On the other hand, a 
corporation selling a land or building, which is not actually used in the business of the said 
corporation and is treated as a capital asset, is imposed with the same CGT rate as individuals. 
Among all the taxes that must be settled before a title to a real property may be transferred, 
including the local transfer tax, the CGT rate is the highest.
Most of the time, cash-strapped individual sellers including corporations have to settle to 
a lower selling price in order to entice a buyer into purchasing their landholding thereby 
diminishing the real value of their real property investment. 
Moreover, individuals or 
corporations planning on expanding their businesses will have to shell out a huge portion from 
their capital for the purpose of acquiring real property in order to pay the CGT and other taxes.
To keep up with today’s fast-paced economy and to ease the tax burden on the individual 
as well as corporate taxpayers, this bill seeks to reduce the CGT rate from the current rate of six 
percent (6%) to three percent (3%). With this amendment, individual taxpayers may find it 
easier and cheaper to sell their properties since the CGT rate will be cut in half Furthennore,
1 Section 135, RA 7160, otherwise known as the Local Government Code of 1991.
2 Section 24 (D) (1), RA 8424, otherwise known as the National Internal Revenue Code of 1991.
.^ettafr
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S. No. 565
'16 JUL 19, P4 -49
Rr.rEIVKF' «Y:
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR THE REGISTRATION, LICENSURE AND PRACTICE OF FOOD 
TECHNOLOGY IN THE PHILIPPINES, PROVIDING FUNDS THEREFOR, AND 
FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Aside from food production, the assurance that food is safe and protected from any harmful substance 
or spoilage is man's perennial quest for healthy living. To aehieve this objective, it is important to 
lecognize the importance of food technologists in nation-building. As envisioned in this bill, the 
country shall endeavor to develop and nurture competent, virtuous, productive, and well-rounded 
professional food technologists, whose standards of practice and service shall be excellent, world- 
class and globally competitive through inviolable, honest, effective and credible licensure 
examinations and through regulatory measures, programs and activities that foster their continuing 
professional growth.
This bill updates and redefines the practice of food technology as
"as not being limited to the specification of raw materials and supervision of their 
procurement; stipen’ision of production; product quality assurance; quality control; 
quality improvement and product evaluation; including the evaluation of the 
microbiological, physical, chemical, and functional properties of food, and the 
conduct of basic and applied research towards development and/ or improvement of 
the safety and quality of food toward products. ”
It shall also include teaching, lecturing and reviewing of subjects in Food Technology.
Salient provisions of this measure include the provision for foreign reciprocity which allows food 
technologists from the Philippines to practice their profession overseas on the condition that we shall 
accord the same privilege to foreign nationals. This bill, in general, aims to adapt the food 
technologists profession to the requirements of the modem age.
In view of the foregoing, the passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
a n to n^
\ ; o n I y ” f . Vr il l a n e s iv
^ncttor
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
SENA
S. No.
J^9
Introduced by Senator Richard “ Dick” J. Gordon
AN ACT
AMENDING CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF REPUBLIC ACT 8239, OTHERWISE 
KNOWN AS THE “ PHILIPPINE PASSPORT ACT OF 1996” AND FOR OTHER
PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
A Philippine passport is an official document issued by the Philippine 
government to its citizens, requesting other governments to allow its citizens to 
pass safely and freely, and in case of need, to give its citizens lawful aid and 
protection. A passport gives the bearer the right to receive the protection and 
assistance of the diplomatic and consuiar officer of the Republic of the 
Phiiippines abroad.
Repubiic Act No. 8239, otherwise known as the Philippine Passport Act of 
1996, was enacted pursuant to the people’s constitutional right to travel. 
However, at present, the validity of a regular Philippine passport is only five (5) 
years. 
In order to ease the process of getting a passport, this bill seeks to 
lengthen its validity from five (5) years to ten (10) years. Frequent traveiers like 
businessmen and Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) will not be burdened with 
renewing their passports every five (5) years. The tedious renewai invoiving long 
cues and loss of valuable time. The processing time usuaily takes between ten 
(10) to thirty (30) days, excluding the appointment period and payment of Nine 
Hundred Fifty Pesos (PhP 950.00) for normal processing or One Thousand Two 
Hundred Pesos (PhP 1,200.00) for express service.
It is important to note, however, that the validity of the passports of minors 
or those below 18 years old will remain to be five (5) years due to significant 
changes in their physical appearance which sbetfl^ be reflected in the 
identification page of their passports. 
y 
*
GORDON
ICK” J.
Senator
rr-.Tj
iv’ ■'
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF TH E) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
FIRST REGULAR SESSION 
)
SENATE
SENATE BILL NO. 154
BILLS &
INTRODUCED BY SENATOR JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO
AN ACT
GRANTING THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES 
SPECIAL POWERS, PRESCRIBING URGENT AND 
RELATED MEASURES NECESSARY AND PROPER TO 
EFFECTIVELY 
ADDRESS 
THE 
CRISIS 
IN 
THE 
TRANSPORTATION SECTOR, AND FOR OTHER 
PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Metro Manila is a 638.55 square kilometers region with a population of 12 
million in 2010. The region’s population is growing at a rate of 1.8% per year and by 
2020, the National Statistics forecasted that 13 million people would be living in the 
region.
In June 2015, the Philippines is ranked 5th out of 59 countries in terms of 
traffic index. This is a composite index of time consumed in traffic due to job 
commute, estimation of time consumption dissatisfaction, C02 consumption 
estimation in traffic and overall inefficiencies in the traffic system. This ranking 
should tell us that traffic situation in the country is not just bad but fatal as opposed to 
what our previous Secretary of Transportation told us.
What is the cost of traffic? In a recent study conducted by JICA, it said that 
traffic cost the economy Php 2 billion a day in 2012 and could swell up to Php 6 
billion in 2030 if not given effective solution.
The negative economic and social impact of the traffic situation in 
Manila is grave and serious. The state of the transport and traffic situation in 
Metro Manila can be summed up in a single word. Crisis.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
SENATE
S.B. No. 906
W .-V  
( S if ir t  of 
r t r ^ i r  ^
■16 
,!1IL 28 
All :04
H ■
' RY:
Introduced by SEN. WIN GATCHALIAN
AN ACT
PROVIDING SCHOLARSHIP GRANTS TO STUDENTS ENROLLING IN TEACHER 
EDUCATION AND PROVIDING INCENTIVES FOR TEACHING IN PUBLIC
SCHOOLS
EXPLANATORY NOTE
A UNESCO report recently elucidated on how the Philippines failed to reach its Year 
2015 targets on the Millennium Development Goals of Education fpr All. One of the goals%set is 
for our country to Improve on the Quality of our Education. It simplifies the four (4) strategies to 
achieve this, one of which .is to overcome the inequalities in learning by allocating the best 
teachers to the most challenging parts of our country. Thus, this bill seeks to respond to the need 
to provide more teachers in the rural areas where there is seemingly a dearth in good teachers that 
arises in the inequality of the quality of education of our learners, especially in the public school.
It is envisioned that by establishing a scholarship program for deserving students who 
want to pursue a career in teacher education, the government shall be developing highly qualified 
educators to serve in the remote rural areas of our country. The incentive is for the student to 
acquire a four-year full-time scholarship and the security of an employment upon graduation.
In 
view 
of 
the 
urgent 
need 
to 
be 
able 
to 
accomplish 
the 
MDGs, 
though belatedly, the immediate passage of this bill is earnestly sought. 
/
WIN GATGHALL
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
FIRST REGULAR SESSION 
)
•16 
-I 
All :42
SENATE
SENATE BILL NO. 940
HI <
’Y;
INTRODUCED BY SENATOR JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO
AN ACT
ESTABLISHING A NATIONAL SCIENCE HIGH SCHOOL IN THE CITY OF 
SAN JUAN TO BE KNOWN AS THE "SAN JUAN CITY NATIONAL SCIENCE 
HIGH SCHOOL" AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The 1987 Philippine Constitution Section 1, Article XIV provides that:
"The State shall protect and promote the right of all citizens to quality
education at all levels, and shall take appropriate steps to make such education
accessible to all. "
The bill seeks to establish a national high school in the City of San Juan that 
will serve as its commitment to continuously promote quality education for its 
young citizens.
The Government should take steps to create more science high schools in the 
coimtry to ensure quality secondary education to more students. A science high 
school would provide a conducive academic community with a curriculum highly 
aimed at science and mathematics - related subjects. In a time where the average 
family cemnot afford to send their children to private schools due to increasing 
tuition fees, parents should be given an option to enroll their children in a public 
high school which offers scholarships to gifted students.
Today, there is still no science high school in the City of San Juan. Therefore, 
tiiere is a need to establish one to impart quality education to incoming high school 
students.
In view of the foregoing, the approval of this bill is hereby 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. 276
" V H E ^
if i TIME: 9‘
BILLS VINDEX
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR A MAGNA CARTA OF WORKERS IN THE INFORMAL 
SECTOR, INSTITUTIONALIZING MECHANISMS FOR IMPLEMENTATION 
THEREOF AND AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF
REPUBLIC ACT NOS. 7160 AND 8282
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This bill is the product of rigorous consultations with informal sector groups and 
leaders from the five informal sub-sectors in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao in 2008 to 
seek a way forward for the social protection and empowerment of the poor.
There is an urgent need to provide access to social protection benefits to almost 
15 million members of the informal sector and to provide appropriate regulation, due 
representation in local government agencies and meaningful planning that will harness 
their full potentials to become effective economic actors.
This proposed Magna Carta of Members of the Informal Sector is one significant 
contribution toward fulfilling the Constitutional mandate of social justice and human 
rights for the informal poor. Both civil society and govermnent are giving their best 
efforts to make life a little better for the poor. There is a need for the latter to redefine 
and scale up not only its priorities, political will but more fundamentally, its genuine 
care for the poor.
The best entities to design culturally sensitive and appropriate social protection 
and delivery mechanisms are the local government units (LGUs) and their 
constituencies. Ensuring wider and deepened grassroots participation in improving 
access to social protection will reduce urban poverty in the Philippines. It is in this 
regard that several provisions deal with the participation of the local government units 
as well as the crucial role of the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA).
Aside from the rights, the bill also contains provisions that tackle responsibilities 
of the members of the sector. Further, this bill also provides for specific recourse 
mechanisms to the basic sectors so that their grievance can be better redressed and their 
welfare be given attention.
The 2008 Informal Sector Survey (2008 ISS) conducted by the National Statistics 
Office (NSO) yielded that there were about 10.5 million informal operators identified. 
Some sectors however assert that the informal sector is estimated to reach 15 million, or 
almost fifty (50 percent) of the country's labor force.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
SENATE BILL NO.
903
r/ 
of tl) c 
rr«far L
'16 
.lUL 26 
A10 :01
in  
UY:
INTRODUCED BY SENATOR JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO
AN ACT
MANDATING THE GOVERNMENT TO PROVIDE ACCESS TO 
INFORMATION ON FOOD AND OTHER BASIC COMMODITIES TO 
GUARANTEE THE RIGHT OF THE PEOPLE TO AFFORDABLE FOOD 
AND ADEQUATE FOOD 
SUPPLY, PRESCRIBING 
GUIDELINES 
THEREFOR, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Years ago, the country experienced a shortage of rice but the Executive 
has not admitted the crisis and failed to make a clear statement as to the true 
state of demand and supply for rice and other agricultural commodities.
To reinforce and guarantee the right of the people to affordable and 
adequate food supply, the government must be transparent in all its 
transactions involving food and other basic commodities. This information is 
pertinent in order for the families to rightly budget their expenses, for the law 
enforcers to run after hoarders and price colluders and private enterprises in 
planning for the medium-term plan in solving such crisis.
This bill seeks to adopt and implement a policy of full public disclosure 
of all government transactions involving food and basic commodities, 
consistent with the Constitutional right of the people to information, by 
requiring all government bodies, specifically, but not limited to the 
Department of Agriculture and Department of Trade and Industry, to grant 
written requests for information on food and food supply, and prescribing the 
penalty in the event of violations thereof. The bill also requires the 
Department of Agriculture to publish all relevant information on the 
importation of basic food commodities, such as rice and com, as well as to 
maintain records and a database containing said information.
In view of the foregoing, the immediate enactment of this measure is 
earnestly sought.
JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S r n n t r
'16 JUL 19 MO :30
S E N A T E  
S.B. No.
Hi < I J V tl)  BY;
In tro d u ced  by SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA
AN 
ACT 
ESTABLISHING 
ENVIRONMENTAL 
UNITS 
IN 
EVERY 
BANKING 
INSTITUTION TO ASSESS THE ENVIRONMENTAL COMPONENT OF LOAN 
APPLICATIONS
Explanatory Note
This bill seeks to establish an environm ental unit in lending institutions both public 
and private th at will ensure th at any loan or related funding applications is in 
compliance w ith environm ent laws. Moreover, m onitoring of the project’s compliance is 
continuous until such time w hen the account is fully paid or the collaterals are 
released or substituted.
The environm ental un it shall be composed of three functional units:
1. Environm ental Review and A ssessm ent Unit tasked to ensure the environm ental 
soundness of the project and the account’s compliance with environm ental laws, 
thereby avoiding environm ental risks;
2. Environm ental Policy, Planning and System s M anagem ent Unit tasked to develop/ 
enhance the lending institutions internal policy to effectively im plem ent the above 
corporate environm ental policy; and
3. Environm ental Program M anagem ent Unit tasked to develop/ m anage grant- 
assisted environm ental program s and assist project m anagem ent u nits in 
developing environm ent-related lending facilities th a t will provide services/ support 
to the bank and its clients.
This proposed m easure shall com plem ent the current environm ental laws and shall 
contribute to their sound im plem entation through the proposed m echanism  in place 
at the initial stage of the project -  th a t is, before it is actualized through funds. The 
enactm ent of this m easure will help facilitate sustainable development and likewise 
encourage sound business m anagem ent.
As the Asian Development B ank (ADB) h as asserted in its study in corporate 
responsibility for environm ental perform ance, “though governm ents m ust continue to 
play a central role in m aintaining environm ental quality, it is also clear th at this 
traditional focus does not attem pt to work directly w ith the m ost active financier and 
player in the development equation -  the private sector. While the governm ents 
determ ine the rules under which businesses act, the firms them selves use natural 
resources, m ake products, and generate pollution. Thus, a sustainable future for the 
region is not possible w ithout the active engagem ent of the private sector.” (ADB 2005)
In view of the foregoing, the passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
LOREN LEGARDA
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
SENATE 
S. B. No. 
1
TIME:
BILLS & MOEX
Introduced by Senator M aria Lourdes Nancy S. Binay
AN ACT
MANDATING THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A PROGRAM OF EDUCATION 
DESIGNED TO HELP ALL MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY OF AN 
EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION TO AVOID INVOLVEMENT WITH ILLEGAL
DRUGS
EXPLANATORY NOTE
It is the duty of the State to safeguard the youth from the harmful effects of illegal drugs 
on their physical and mental well-being. Illegal drug use remains to be one of our 
nation’s most serious social problems. Thus, this bill seeks to provide measures to 
prevent illegal drug use not only among the youth but also those responsible for then- 
safety and welfare. Under this proposed bill, all educational institutions shall: (1) 
establish and maintain a program of education designed to help all members of an 
educational institution to avoid involvement with illegal drugs; and (2) establish and 
maintain drug counseling and rehabilitation services which shall be made available to all 
its students and employees.
In view of the foregoing, the passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
LO
NANCY S. BINAY
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s. No. 
452
-t “ i*-
■]6 
111.19 
Ain 58
, 
• i ! ■ i .V:
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
REGULATING THE PRACTICE OF CRIMINOLOGY PROFESSION IN THE 
PHILIPPINES, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR, REPEALING FOR 
THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT 6506, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS “AN ACT 
CREATING THE BOARD OF EXAMINERS FOR CRIMINOLOGISTS IN THE 
PHILIPPINES”
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Bachelor of Science in Criminology remains to three in terms of the number of board 
examinees each year. Graduates of the course end up providing services in the fields of law 
enforcement, criminal justice system administration, public safety and safety administration, 
and con ection and jail management.
The state recognizes the vital role that the criminology profession play in nation-building and 
development. The recognition of the importance of the profession expresses the high regard 
for our country in the maintenance of peace and order, the protection of life, liberty and 
property, and the promotion of the general welfare of the nation.
It can’t be regarded however, that there are people in the criminology profession who have 
tainted the values espoused by their profession. Young police officers, oftentimes, violate the 
laws they have sworn to abide and enforce. There is therefore a need to amend the law 
governing the criminology profession.
This bill seeks to establish a Board under the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) 
professionalizing the practice of criminology. It shall also institute mechanisms to guarantee 
the fitness of individuals engaged in the criminology profession. It is hoped that this measure 
will ensure that Filipinos who are in the criminology profession will be able to provide 
efficient and excellent service which is world class and globally competitive.
In view of the foregoing, early passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
ANTON^O>v*SO N ^” F. T^ILLANESIV
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
SENATE 
S. No. 
6 3 1
(g/fift of 
K
’16 JUL 19 P6 :25
f U  t
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
STRENGTHENING THE PHILIPPINE COMPREHENSIVE POLICY ON HIV AND 
AIDS PREVENTION, TREATMENT, CARE, AND SUPPORT, REPEALING FOR 
THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8504, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS ‘THE 
PHILIPPINE AIDS PREVENTION AND CONTROL ACT OF 1998’ 
AND 
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Republic Act 8504 or the "Philippine Aids Prevention and Control Act" was enacted in 1998. 
It seeks to promote public awareness about the causes, modes of transmission, consequences, 
and means of prevention and control of HIV/AIDS through a comprehensive nationwide 
educational and information campaign organized and conducted by the State. It is the State's 
response in order to control the spread of HIV infections among Filipinos.
15 years after its enactment, cases of HIV infections continue to increase. In fact, based on 
the records of the National Epidemiology Center of the Department of Health, in January 
2013, there were 380 new HIV positive individuals confirmed by the STD/AIDS Cooperative 
Central Laboratory (SACCL) and reported to the HIV and AIDS Registry. This was 79% 
higher compared to the same period last 2012. Another alarming data was reflected in the 
report made in June 2013 wherein a total of 388 new cases of HIV infection were discovered 
nationwide in April of this year alone.
The alarming incidence of increase in cases of HIV infection in our country raises question 
on whether or not RA 8504 has been effective in raising awareness of Filipinos with regard 
the spread of HIV/AIDS. It is therefore clear that there is a need to amend RA 8504 in order 
to strengthen the law and achieve its purpose of halting the prevalence of HIV/AIDS in the 
country.
This bill seeks to introduce the following reforms to RA 8504; a) the restructuring of the legal 
framework on HIV and AIDS; b) the delineation of roles and responsibilities of state 
institutions involved in HIV and AIDS response; c) the establishment of the National HIV 
and AIDS Plan, and; d) the strengthening of the stigma reduction mechanisms of the law.
In view of the foregoing, the immediate passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
ANTONO^S^ON pI^ ” F. T ^L L ^^E S  IV
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
F irst R eg u lar Session
SENATE 
S.B. No. 
9 1 1
i f i  TIME:
BILLS &
In tro d u ced  by SEN. WIN GATCHALIAN
AN ACT
AMENDING SECTIONS 69,261 (CC) AND 264 OF BATAS PAMBANSA 
BLG. 881, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE OMNIBUS ELECTION CODE OF THE 
PHILIPPINES, AS AMENDED, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Undoubtedly, the Philippine electoral system is mired in colorful hues 
during election - the feverish appeal attracts candidates coming from different 
parties, several known personalities, some running as independents backed by 
supporters and others from some whimsical personal awakenings.
In a democratic society like ours, the 1987 Constitution guarantees equal 
access to opportunities for public service. However, in a resolution of the 
Supreme Court, it clarified the view that running for public office is. a privilege, 
not a right. It is subject to the limitations imposed by law and must take into 
account practical 
considerations. 
Although 
the 
Commission 
on 
Elections 
is 
mandated by law to receive these certificates of candidacies as its ministerial 
duty, the onslaught of candidates who do not intend nor has the logistical 
capacity 
to 
launch 
a 
viable 
campaign 
unnecessarily 
engender 
additional 
financial burden to the cash-strapped COMELEC for increased allocation of time 
and resources, and much more, since the new automated system would require 
printing of additional ballots to accommodate the greater number of candidates.
b
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC } 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
}
First Regular Session 
}
S E N A T E  
S.B.No. 
256
dateJIII
Co
INDEX
BILLS
Introduced by SENATOR LACSON
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Land is the ultimate resource in sustaining life, and thus, good stewardship in land 
use is essential for present and future generations.
The world’s population has doubled in the last 40 years and passed the 7 billion 
mark. It is predicted to reach 8.5 billion by the year 2030, a population level thought by 
many scientists to be the maximum number of people supported by the world4 s resources 
and capacity for food production. Yet again, only less than half of the world’s population 
has secured access to land.
The International Federation of Surveyors (FIG), in cooperation with the United 
Nations, hosted the “Bathurst Workshop on Land Tenure and Cadastral Infrastructures 
for Sustainable Development” in Australia in October 1999 and concluded that 
sustainable development is just rhetoric without appropriate land administration system. 
The Bathurst declaration recommends a global commitment to provide effective legal 
security of tenure and access to property for all men and women and to provide reforms 
in the land administration system essential for sustainable development. They also 
underscored the need to facilitate full and equal access to land-related economic 
opportunities such as credit and natural resources.
However, 
the 
performance 
of government 
agencies 
undertaking 
land 
administration functions such as land surveys, mapping, classification, titling and 
disposition and registration is considered below par. The services provided by these 
agencies do not address our domestic problems on sustainable development and much 
more, global concerns.
The problem is largely attributed to fundamental legal and institutional defects in 
both the structure and operations of the land administration system. For one, there are 
many laws governing land administration functions. This results in the existence of a 
number of institutions administering our scarce land resources which bring confusions, 
delays, high transaction costs for both government and users, low investment, and graft 
and corruption.
These institutional and structural defects in land administration are detrimental to 
the sustainable development of natural resources. More so, these have also given rise to 
major inefficiencies including extensive delays in the disposition and titling of alienable 
and disposable land; inaccurate and incomplete land information and records; 
proliferation of fake titles; duplication and overlap of activities among government
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
S E N A T E  
Senate Bill No. 
4  2
Introduced by SENATOR LACSON
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Article III, Section 19, paragraph (1) of the Constitution states that:
“Excessive fines shall not be imposed nor cruel, degrading or 
inhuman punishment inflicted. Neither shall death penalty be 
imposed, unless, for compelling reasons involving heinous 
crimes, the Congress hereafter provides for it.”
While the Fundamental Law suspended the imposition of the death 
penalty and commuted all the death penalties imposed then to reclusion 
perpetua, the framers were mindful that the said suspension was merely 
temporary. As can be seen from the wordings of the aforecited provision of the 
1987 Constitution, Congress was not altogether prevented from re-imposing it 
“for compelling reasons involving heinous crimes.” Thus, on December 13, 
1993, Congress in the exercise of its legislative powers deemed fit to enact 
Republic Act 7659 which imposed the death penalty on certain crimes which it 
defined as “heinous for being grievous, odious and hateful offenses and which, 
by reason of their inherent or manifest wickedness, viciousness, atrocity and 
perversity are repugnant and outrageous to the common standards and norms of 
decency and morality in a just, civilized and ordered society.”
This Law was implemented for nearly 13 years with a number of 
convicted criminals sentenced to death penalty and received their dues. A 
record of convicts, however, was removed from the death row due to the timely 
intervention of opponents of the Law who are mostly members of the church. 
Thence, the Congress enacted Republic Act 9346 on June 24, 2006. This Law 
prohibited the imposition of the said penalty and commuted their sentence to 
either reclusion perpetua or life imprisonment depending on whether the law 
violated made use of the nomenclature of their penalties by the Revised Penal 
Code or not.
However, the alarming surge of heinous crimes in recent years has 
shown that reclusion perpetua, in lieu of death penalty, is not a deterrent to 
grave offenders.
In 2015, the Philippine National Police (PNP) reported that 75 percent 
of the most heinous crimes are drug-related while 65 percent of inmates in 
prisons are either accused or convicted of drug-related crimes.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
:> 
ififU r t o f Ih e 1!!, i,rrf1 a rjj
16 JUL 21 
A10 56
S E N A T E
752
S. B. No.
H  I t
'W ;
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT
PENALIZING DISOBEDIENCE TO THE WRIT OF HABEAS CORPUS
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Article III, Section 1 of the 1987 Constitution provides that, "No person shall be 
deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process of law, nor shall any person be 
denied the equal protection of the laws."
One of the man's most cherished possessions is his liberty against any form of 
restraint. To reinforce this, the law grants to an individual the right to avail of the writ 
of habeas corpus. Upon the issuance of a writ, a person who restrains another is 
directed to produce the restrained person before the court or judge designated in the 
writ at the time and place therein specified.
The present law on habeas corpus, specifically Rule 102 Section 16 of the Revised 
Rules of Court, provides for a penalty of contempt and a fine of One Thousand pesos 
(P1,000.00) in case a person disobeys the writ or if the clerk of court refuses to issue one 
without just reasons. In effect, the Rules of Court imposes the said penalty only in two
(2) instances: refusal of the clerk of court to issue the writ after allowance thereof and 
demand therefore, and neglect or refusal of a person to whom a writ is directed to obey 
or make return of the same according to the command thereof or refuses, upon demand 
made by or on behalf of the prisoner, to deliver to the person demanding, within six (6) 
hours after the demand therefore a true copy of the warrant of order of commitment.
The bill proposes to punish disobedience to the writ in four (4) instances:
(1) A person who refuses or neglects to obey the writ;
(2) A member of the court who knowingly recommits to prison a person already 
discharged;
(3) A clerk of court who refuses without reason to issue a writ;
(4) A person who intently transfers residence or transfers a person under his custody of 
restraint to elude the service of the writ
This bill is filed for the purpose of giving aggrieved citizens a means to protect 
their rights. By providing stiffer penalties in addition to the one imposed under the 
Rules, abusive individuals will be deterred from further committing the said acts.
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
' p i
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E  
S. B. No.
siiS j 
-'^r
( C f f i r t  of tin 
[_
■16 
JUL 21 
All 4 0
UJ ;
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT
MANDATING THE IMPOSITION OF PENALTY LOWER THAN THAT 
PRESCRIBED BY LAW IN CRIMINAL CASES THE CIVIL CASE OF WHICH IS 
SETTLED THROUGH OR BY ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION 
AMENDING FOR THAT PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9285
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Alternative dispute resolution or ADR has become an effective legal mechanism 
in settling controversies or disputes in court.
As a way of encouraging ADR and promoting its use, this bill seeks to provide 
the benefit, favorable to the accused, of lowering the penalty in case of conviction in 
criminal cases where the civil aspect of which is settled with finality through or by 
ADR.
It is submitted that with this proposal, criminal cases will be resolved with 
dispatch especially in determining and satisfying civil liability at the least which is 
impliedly instituted in the filing of such cases in court.
An immediate deliberation of this bill is thus requested.
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES ) 
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE 
s. No. 5 4 3
I’f I:)'" 
11 n
‘16 .11119 P ? ;45
1 • V :
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
STRENGTHENING THE CAREER EXECUTIVE SERVICE 
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Presidential Decree 807 or the Civil Service Decree of the Philippines created three levels in 
our civil service system. These are: the first level, which includes the clerical, trades, crafts 
and custodial service positions for non-professional or sub-professional work requiring less 
than four years of collegiate studies; the second level, which includes the professional, 
technical and scientific positions requiring at least four years of college work up to Division 
Chief level; and the third level, which mainly covers positions in the career executive service, 
the entry to which is currently prescribed by the Career Executive Service Board or CESB.
Those who belong in the third level of the civil service system occupy positions in the 
executive and managerial services. They enjoy security of tenure, mobility, and classification 
based on ranks. These positions have significant roles in the bureaucracy as they have a direct 
hand both in the formulation and implementation of government policies thus it is important 
that we enact a system that would set up career development and professionalize the career 
executive service.
This bill seeks to systematize appointments and promotions in the government by providing 
for a systematized career rank progression in the bureaucracy. It also seeks to create a Career 
Executive Service Board (CESB) that will issue rules, standards and procedures in the 
recruitment, selection, and assignment to positions, classification, compensation, mobility, 
performance management, tour of duty, rewards and incentives and training of the Career 
Executive Service Officers (CESOs).
This bill seeks to promote the concept of merit and fitness over that of trust and confidence. It 
is hoped that thru the passage of this bill, the practice of appointing people to career 
executive positions in the government even if that person is not eligible will be averted.
In view of the foregoing, immediate passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
ANTOIjI ^ W
nW ” F .tI iLLANES W
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s. No. 
4 5 4
1 
- i i i T I  ■ i '■ i
' (Olfur «if ‘'.I '■'> '■
JIJL i V  
A I1  -.in,
: 
r;i\ I ! ’ nv; 
A
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F, Triltanes IV
AN ACT
REGULATING THE REGISTRATION, LICENSURE, AND PRACTICE OF 
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY, PROVIDING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR 
OTHER RELATED PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
On June 21, 1969, Republic Act 5680, “An Act Creating the Board for Physical Therapists and 
Occupational Therapists” was approved. Unlike all other regulatory acts that enforce the laws on one 
profession. Republic Act 5680 was created to regulate two different allied health professions. Physical 
therapy and Occupational therapy. Since then, said act had never been amended to respond to current 
global trend and national development.
Physical therapy is a separate and distinct profession from Occupational Therapy by definition, scope 
of practice and educational requirements. Physical therapy has its own professional association, the 
Philippine Physical Therapy Association (PPTA) which is duly accredited by the Professional 
Regulation Commission (PRC) and duly-registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission 
(SEC). The association is well recognized as a member of the World Confederation of Physical 
Therapists and Asian Confederation for Physical Therapy. Likewise, Occupational Therapy has a 
separate and distinct professional association, the Occupational Therapy Association of the 
Philippines, Inc. (OTAP) which is duly accredited by the PRC and duly registered by the SEC, and 
well recognized and accepted as a member of the World Federation of Occupational Therapists 
(WFOT) since 1908.
In the event of the approval of the General Agreement of Trade in Services (GATS) and its 
implementation in the ASEAN region, in so far as the business service sector which includes 
professional services is concerned, the already marketable Filipino physical therapists and 
occupational therapists will be further catapulted to overseas employment. Global demand tempered 
by national and regional economic constraints, new immigration laws and international competition is 
fast requiring more quality in health care professionals, including physical therapists and occupational
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
SENATE
97
dateJUI^
BILLS
S. No.
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
TO INCREASE THE OLD-AGE PENSION OF MILITARY VETERANS 
AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SECTION 10 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 
6948
Explanatory Note
“The State shall provide immediate and adequate care, benefits, and other fonns of 
assistance to war veterans and veterans of military campaigns, their surviving spouses 
and orphans.” -  Section 7 of Article XVI of the 1987 Philippine Constitution
It is the responsibility of the State to ensure that the retirees continue to receive 
benefits commensurate to the service they have rendered and that they be allowed to 
live a comfortable life during their retirement.
The last old-age pension increase that was granted in 1994 with the passage of 
Republic Act No. 7696 or the Act Amending Certain Sections of Republic Act No. 
6948 Otherwise Known as "An Act Standardizing and Upgrading the Benefits for 
Military Veterans and Their Dependents”, gave our veterans Php5,000.00 pension per 
month but however spread the amount into eight (8) tranches. This, in effect, 
benefitted our heroes with a measly PhpSOO monthly pension increase from 1995 to 
2002.
After thirteen long years, inflation rate spiked bringing the price of basic commodities 
and the cost of health services in the upswing. This sad situation persuaded the 
remaining living old-age pension beneficiaries to clamor for a reasonable increase.
Hence, to be consistent with the government policy to help foster socio-economic 
security and general well-being of the country’s veterans in recognition of their 
bravery and loyalty to the country, this bill aims to increase the monthly old-age 
pension of veterans from Php5,000.00 to Php8,000.00.
In view of the foregoing, the immediate passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
r\-\^ ------- -
ANTONIO ^O N N Y ” F. TRILLANES IV 
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s. fvo. 
95
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
ESTABLISHING THE FILIPINO IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM, AND APPROPRIATING 
FUNDS THEREFOR
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This bill seeks to consolidate all other government identification system into one integrated 
identification system in order to sufficiently provide efficient services to all Filipinos. The new 
identification system will be issuing a Filipino Identification Card that would serve as the official 
identification for all citizens of the Republic of the Philippines. This Filipino ID Card will be 
provided to all Filipinos whether residing in the Philippines or abroad.
The Filipino ID system aims to reduce the red tape in government bureaucracy that hinders the 
provision of services by eliminating redundancies and simplifying the processes involved in public 
and private services. Among other uses, it will be honored in all transactions with the government 
requiring the identity of the person.
In view of the foregoing, the immediate approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
ANTCWICP“SONNY” F. TRILLANES IV 
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
SENATE
S. NO. 
6 1 6
(9f(ire of
'16 
JUL 19 P 6 « 6
H
Introduced by Sen. Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
IMPOSING RECIPROCITY AS A REQUIREMENT BEFORE ALLOWING 
FOREIGN NATIONALS TO 
PRACTICE THEIR PROFESSIONS IN THE 
PHILIPPINES TO PROTECT THE INTERESTS OF FILIPINO PROFESSIONALS 
AND FOR OTHER RELATED PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
As a member in good standing of the Association of Southeast Asian Nation (ASEAN) and 
the family of nations, we should be ready to comply with our multilateral obligation to allow 
the exchange and practice of professionals from ASEAN countries in our country, in 
preparation for the full integration of the ASEAN economies.
Moreover, in order to broaden career opportunities for Filipino professionals, we must be 
ready to reciprocate the initiative of other countries to allow our nationals to practice their 
professions in other states, countries and/or territories.
This bill seeks to institutionalize the policy of allowing foreign professionals to practice in 
the Philippines but subject to the requirement of reciprocity, as a measure to protect the 
interest of Filipino professionals. Under the provisions of this Act, professionals from other 
states, countries or territories shall be allowed to practice in the Philippines only if the 
country, state or territory where they are registered as such also allow Filipino professionals 
in the same field to practice their profession within their territorial jurisdiction on the same as 
the citizens/subjects of such foreign country, state or territory.
In the long run, it is earnestly believed that this policy will prepare our home grown 
professionals to be at par with their international counterparts and help them become globally 
competitive. This representation believes that we are not only widening the opportunities of 
Filipino professionals who will benefit from this proposal but we are putting them in a place 
where they can learn more from their peers and counterparts from other countries, be it inside 
or outside of our country.
Hence, the immediate passage of this measure is earnestly sought.
ANTON\p  “SONNY” F. 't v - W —
TMLLANES IV
Senator