Republic of the Philippines  
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 
Quezon City, Metro Manila 
Nineteenth Congress 
Second Regular Session 
HOUSE BILL NO. ______ 
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Introduced by Honorable Dan S. Fernandez 
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EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The term “homeland security” came about following the enactment of the Homeland 
Security Act of 2002 in the United States and the reorganization of many U.S. government 
agencies in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 attacks (“9/11”). Originally, it pertains to 
the national effort to ensure a homeland that is safe, secure, and resilient against terrorism 
and other hazards where American interests, aspirations, and ways of life can thrive. Over 
time, the phrase homeland security is no longer limited in its meaning and application to 
terrorist incidents. An “all-hazards approach” has now been adopted so as to encompass 
both natural disasters and man-made events. Thus, the domain of homeland security now 
accommodates a plethora of situations and scenarios, ranging from natural disasters to 
acts of terrorism. 
Under this bill, the term homeland security refers to the efforts and measures 
undertaken to protect and safeguard the Philippines against threats to its sovereignty, 
territorial integrity, and national security, including but not limited to terrorism, insurgency, 
natural disasters, pandemics, and cyber threats. On the other hand, “public safety”, a 
related term, encompasses the collective actions, policies, and initiatives aimed at 
ensuring the welfare, protection, and well-being of the general public. It includes activities 
related to crime prevention, emergency management, disaster response, public health, and 
other areas that contribute to maintaining peace, order, and public security. 
This measure aims to strengthen our homeland security, as well as public safety 
through education, research, and innovation. It provides for an integrated and coordinated 
approach to enhance expertise, promote knowledge generation, and facilitate the 
application of innovative solutions in addressing security challenges. For such purposes, it 
formulates the national framework for our country’s homeland security and public safety 
and creates a national governance council. 
July 11, 2023
9:15 am
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In view of the importance and urgency of institutionalizing the foregoing framework 
and mechanisms, the early approval of this bill is earnestly recommended. 
DAN S. FERNANDEZ 
Lone District of Sta. Rosa City 


Republic of the Philippines  
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 
Quezon City, Metro Manila 
Nineteenth Congress 
Second Regular Session 
HOUSE BILL NO. ______ 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
Introduced by Honorable Dan S. Fernandez 
-------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
AN ACT 
STRENGTHENING THE PHILIPPINE HOMELAND SECURITY AND PUBLIC  SAFETY 
THROUGH EDUCATION, RESEARCH, AND INNOVATION, CREATING FOR THE 
PURPOSE THE NATIONAL GOVERNANCE COUNCIL ON HOMELAND SECURITY 
AND 
PUBLIC 
SAFETY 
EDUCATION, 
RESEARCH, 
AND 
INNOVATION, 
PROVIDING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines 
in Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Title. - This Act shall be known as the "Philippine Homeland Security 
and Public Safety Education, Research, and Innovation Act of 2023." 
SEC. 2. Declaration of Policy. – It shall be the policy of the State to strengthen the 
capabilities and capacities of the Philippines in the fields of homeland security 
and public safety through education, research, and innovation. The State 
recognizes the need for an integrated and coordinated approach to enhance 
expertise, promote knowledge generation, and facilitate the application of 
innovative solutions in addressing security challenges. 
In particular, the State shall: 
a) Prioritize the development and enhancement of homeland security and
public safety education, research, and innovation capabilities in the
Philippines;
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b) Recognize the critical role of education, research, and innovation in 
strengthening the country's capacity to prevent, respond to, and mitigate 
threats and risks to homeland security and public safety; 
 
c) Promote and enhance the country's national security by establishing a 
national and comprehensive framework that promotes collaboration, 
knowledge-sharing, and excellence in homeland security and public 
safety education, research, and innovation; 
 
d) Ensure collaboration and coordination among government agencies, 
educational institutions, research organizations, industry stakeholders, and 
civil society in order to foster partnerships and synergies to ensure a 
holistic and integrated approach to homeland security and public safety; 
 
e) Promote the development and delivery of high-quality education and 
training programs in the field of homeland security and public safety 
emphasizing the importance of equipping professionals with the 
knowledge, skills, and competencies needed to effectively respond to 
emerging threats and challenges; 
 
f) Prioritize research and innovation advancement in addressing evolving 
security threats and improving public safety practices by encouraging the 
generation of new knowledge, the application of cutting-edge 
technologies, and the development of innovative solutions to enhance the 
effectiveness and efficiency of homeland security and public safety 
efforts; 
 
g) Underscore the importance of leveraging technology and information 
systems to enhance situational awareness, intelligence gathering, and 
response capabilities in the field of homeland security and public safety 
and encourage the adoption of advanced technologies and the 
establishment of robust information systems for data collection, analysis, 
and dissemination; 
 
h) Acknowledge the importance of international cooperation in addressing 
transnational security threats and promoting best practices in homeland 
security and public safety and encourage collaboration with foreign 
counterparts, participation in international forums, and the exchange of 
information, expertise, and resources; and 


 
i) Recognize the need for sufficient resources, both financial and human, to 
support the implementation of effective homeland security and public 
safety education, research, and innovation initiatives. 
 
SEC. 3. Definition of Terms. – For purposes of this Act, 
 
a) “Homeland Security” - refers to the efforts and measures undertaken to 
protect and safeguard the Philippines against threats to its sovereignty, 
territorial integrity, and national security, including but not limited to 
terrorism, insurgency, natural disasters, pandemics, and cyber threats. 
 
b) “Public Safety”- encompasses the collective actions, policies, and 
initiatives aimed at ensuring the welfare, protection, and well-being of the 
general public. It includes activities related to crime prevention, emergency 
management, disaster response, public health, and other areas that 
contribute to maintaining peace, order, and public security. 
 
c) “Education” - pertains to the process of acquiring knowledge, skills, and 
values through formal and informal means, aimed at developing 
individuals' understanding and capabilities in the field of homeland security 
and public safety. 
 
d) “Research” - involves systematic investigation, analysis, and study 
conducted to generate new knowledge, insights, and solutions in the areas 
of homeland security and public safety. It includes both theoretical and 
empirical studies, data collection and analysis, and the application of 
scientific methodologies. 
 
e) “Innovation”- refers to the creation, development, and application of new or 
improved technologies, methodologies, practices, or approaches that 
enhance the effectiveness, efficiency, and resilience of homeland security 
and public safety efforts. 
 
f) “Secretariat” - the administrative and technical support body that assists 
and facilitates the operations and functions of the Council. 


 
SEC. 4. Adopting the National Framework on Homeland Security and Public 
Safety Education, Research, and Innovation. - The Act establishes a 
comprehensive framework that sets out the principles, objectives, and 
strategies for homeland security and public safety education, research, and 
innovation in the Philippines. The framework ensures alignment with national 
security priorities, emerging threats, and global best practices. It promotes 
interdisciplinary approaches, collaboration between academia and industry, 
and the integration of research findings and innovations into policy and 
practice. 
 
The National Framework shall include provisions for: 
 
a)  Developing a risk-based approach to homeland security and public 
safety education, research and innovation. This involves conducting 
comprehensive risk assessments to identify and prioritize threats and 
vulnerabilities. Education and training programs are tailored to address 
specific risks, while research efforts are focused on understanding the 
evolving threat landscape and developing effective mitigation strategies. 
 
b)  Promoting 
multi-stakeholder 
collaboration 
among 
government 
agencies, academia, industry partners, communities, and civil society 
organizations. This includes collaborative undertakings, platforms and 
networks that facilitate information exchange, sharing of resources, 
expertise, and best practices, leading to more comprehensive and 
effective training, education, research and innovation initiatives. 
 
c)  Embracing the integration of technology in homeland security and 
public safety training, education, research and innovation. This includes 
leveraging advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI), data analytics, 
cybersecurity, remote sensing, and communication technologies. 
Training and education programs incorporate hands-on experience with 
emerging technologies, while research efforts are concentrated on 
exploring innovative applications of technology in enhancing security 
capabilities. 
 
d) Prioritizing capacity building efforts on professional and leader 
development in the homeland security and public safety sectors. This 
includes designing comprehensive training and education programs, 
certifications, and continuous professional development initiatives. 


Research supports capacity building efforts by identifying training and 
education needs, evaluating the effectiveness of training and educational 
interventions, and providing recommendations for improvement. 
 
e) Developing community-based training and education programs that 
enhance awareness, preparedness, and resilience at the grassroots 
level. This includes engaging communities in the research process by 
involving them in data collection, needs assessments, and the co-
creation of solutions. This approach promotes a sense of ownership 
and fosters community resilience. 
 
f)  Utilizing interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary approaches to homeland 
security and public safety training, education, research and innovation. 
This includes collaboration among different disciplines, such as law 
enforcement, emergency management, public health, social sciences, and 
engineering. Training programs and research initiatives integrate 
knowledge, methodologies, and perspectives from various fields to address 
complex security challenges. 
 
g)  Embedding ethics and human rights considerations in homeland security 
and public safety training, education, research and innovation. Ensure 
that professionals are trained to adhere to ethical principles, respect 
human rights, and uphold the rule of law. Research initiatives include 
ethical implications of security measures, privacy concerns, and the 
impact of interventions on vulnerable populations. 
 
h)  Promoting evidence-based policy and effective governance frameworks 
in the field of homeland security and public safety. This includes 
conducting research that informs policy development, evaluates policy 
effectiveness, and identifies gaps in governance structures. It also 
includes fostering collaboration between researchers, policymakers, 
and practitioners to ensure policies are grounded on empirical evidence 
and aligned with training and education needs. 
 
i)  Fostering a culture of continuous learning and adaptation in the homeland 
security and public safety sectors. Training and professional development 
opportunities include emerging threats, technologies, and best 
practices. 


Research efforts are geared towards the understanding of evolving 
security challenges and employment of adaptive strategies. 
 
j)   Promoting international collaboration and cooperation in homeland security 
and public safety training, education, and research. This includes knowledge 
exchange, joint research projects, and sharing of best practices with 
other countries and international organizations. Collaborative endeavors 
enhance the effectiveness of training and educational programs, expand 
research networks, and contribute to a global understanding of security 
challenges. 
 
SEC. 5. Creating and Defining the Power and Functions of the National 
Governance Council on Homeland Security and Public Safety Education, 
Research, and Innovation. - 
a.) The Council - There is hereby created a National Governance Council 
on Homeland Security and Public Safety Education, Research, and 
Innovation, hereinafter referred to as the "Council." The Council shall 
serve as the coordinating body responsible for the formulation, 
implementation, and monitoring of policies, programs, and initiatives 
aligned with the National Framework on homeland security and public 
safety education, research, and innovation. 
 
b.) Powers and Functions of the Council - The Council shall: 
 
1. Provide strategic guidance and oversight in the adoption and 
implementation of the National Framework on Homeland Security 
and Public Safety Education, Research, and Innovation consistent 
with national security priorities, emerging threats and global trends. 
 
2. Coordinate and facilitate collaboration, synergy and effective 
governance among stakeholders in the field of homeland security 
and public safety education, research, and innovation. 
 
3. Promote the development and approval of high-quality education and 
training programs in homeland security and public safety, including 
the establishment of standards and accreditation mechanisms. 


4. Foster and approve research and innovation initiatives that contribute 
to the understanding of security challenges, the development of 
advanced technologies, and the enhancement of operational 
strategies in the homeland security and public safety sectors. 
 
5. Support the capacity building and professional development of 
individuals working in homeland security and public safety 
institutions through specialized training programs, scholarships, and 
professional certifications. 
 
6. Identify and address gaps in knowledge, skills, and capabilities in the 
homeland security and public safety sectors through targeted 
educational initiatives and capacity-building programs. 
 
7. Establish mechanisms for the dissemination and utilization of 
knowledge, research findings, best practices, lessons learned in 
order to contribute to evidenced based decision making in public 
safety and homeland security. 
 
8. Conduct regular assessments and evaluations to ensure the 
effectiveness and relevance of education, research, and innovation 
efforts in addressing homeland security and public safety 
challenges. 
 
9. Promote the exchange of knowledge, expertise, and best practices in 
homeland security and public safety education, research, and innovation 
at the national and international levels. 
 
10. Promote the integration of research and innovation into 
homeland security and public safety strategies and operations. 
 
11. Provide recommendations and advocate for policies and legislation 
that promote innovation, knowledge transfer, enhancement of 
capabilities and collaboration in the homeland security and public 
safety sectors. 
 
12. Secure funding and resources to support the activities and initiatives 
of the Council, including partnerships with public and private entities. 


SEC. 6. Composition and Structure of the Council. - Membership of the Council 
shall comprise the following: 
a.) National Government Agencies with established educational and 
training institutions: 
Department of the Interior and Local Government 
Department of Transportation 
Department of Justice 
Department of Finance 
Department of Health 
Department of National 
Defense 
Department of Information, Communication and Technology 
Department of Science and Technology 
Other Executive Offices 
 
b.) Three (3) Prominent Research and Academic Institutions 
 
c.) Four (4) Industry Stakeholders and Civil Society Organizations 
The Council shall be headed by the following: 
a.) Chairperson 
b.) Vice Chairperson on Policy Development and 
Legislation 
c.) Vice Chairperson on Standards and Quality Assurance 
d.) Vice Chairperson on Capacity Building and Scholarship 
e.) Vice Chairperson on Research and Innovation 
f.) Vice Chairperson on International Engagement and Collaboration 
 
SEC. 7. Instituting the Philippine Public Safety College as Secretariat to the 
Council. - The Philippine Public Safety College (hereinafter referred to as the 
"College") shall be designated as the Secretariat to the Council. 
 
The College shall be empowered to provide administrative and technical 
support to the Council's operations, including organizing meetings, coordinating 
activities, and facilitating communication among stakeholders. 


The College shall act as the focal point for information exchange, knowledge 
sharing, and collaborative efforts within the Council especially in the 
implementation of its policies, strategies, programs and initiatives aligned 
with the National Framework. 
 
SEC. 8. Promulgating the Philippine Public Safety College (PPSC) Charter. – In 
pursuit of the expanded role of PPSC as the Secretariat to the Council playing 
a vital role in coordinating and implementing the national framework on 
education, research, and innovation, the College shall be granted a Charter. 
 
The Charter shall define the mandate, powers and functions, governance 
structure, funding mechanisms and other necessary provisions for the effective 
operations of the College. 
 
SEC. 9. Appropriations. - The amounts necessary for the effective implementation 
of this Act shall be included in the annual General Appropriations Act. The 
Council and the Philippine Public Safety College may also seek funding from 
other sources, such as grants, donations, and partnerships, subject to applicable 
laws and regulations. 
 
SEC. 10. Implementing Rules and Regulations. - Within ninety (90) days from the 
effectivity of this Act, the Council, shall promulgate the necessary rules and 
regulations to implement the provisions of this Act. 
 
SEC. 11. Separability Clause. - If any provision of this Act is declared 
unconstitutional, the other provisions not affected thereby shall remain in full 
force and effect. 
 
SEC. 12. Repealing Clause. - All laws, decrees, orders, rules, and regulations 
or parts thereof inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are hereby 
amended, modified or repealed accordingly. 
 
SEC. 13. Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its 
publication in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation. 
 
 
 
Approved,