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CONGRESS OF THE PHILIPPINES
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

House Bill No. 24°72

Introduced by REP. MARK A. VILLAR

EXPLANATORY NOTE

Article XIV, Section 1 of the Constitution 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

Unfortunately, despite the said Constitutionat mandate, it has been a
common practice by most private schools to disallow students with delinquent
tuition fees to take examinations. This practice does not only run counter to
afore-stated policy, it also embarrasses the students whose only fault is being
unable to provide for their education. This traumatizes the students and
discourages them from continuing with their studies. As a result, it shutters their
hopes and dreams. Thus, it is about time to put an end to this practice.

The ends sought by this Bill should not, however, mean that schools
should be left without recourse in cases of delinquent tuition fees as the
protection of schools is vital to ensure accessibility to quality education. As such,
in addition to their existing rights, this Bill expressly and clearly sets forth the
school's rights and recourse in cases of delinquent tuition fees.

In view of the foregoing, early passage of this bill is earnestly requested

—_
E08

MARK A. VILLAR
Representative, Lone District of Las Pihas City


CONGRESS OF THE PHILIPPINES
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
2
House Bill No. 2472

Introduced by REP. MARK A. VILLAR

AN ACT
PROHIBITING PRIVATE SCHOOLS FROM DISALLOWING
STUDENTS WITH DELINQUENT TUITION FEES TO TAKE THE MIDTERM OR
FINAL EXAMINATIONS AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES

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

SECTION 1. Unlawful Practice.- It is hereby declared unlawful for any
private school to disallow any student from taking any midterm or final
examination due to non-payment of tuition fees under the established terms of
payment prescribed by the schoo! concerned and approved by the Department of
Education.

SECTION 2. Rights of Schools.- Students permitted to take mid-term or
final examinations notwithstanding, in addition to the existing rights provided by
law, the school authorities shall have the following rights:

a. A student with an unpaid tuition fee, may not be admitted by the private
school authorities concerned at the next succeeding semester classes or at the
next succeeding opening of a new academic year, as the case may be, until the
prior delinquencies are fully paid; and

b. The private schoo! authorities concerned cannot be compelied to issue
clearance to students with financial obligations to their schools, which remain due
and unpaid.
Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City

FIFTEENTH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

2536

HOUSE BILL NO.

INTRODUCED BY HONORABLE IMELDA QUIBRANZA-DIMAPORO
AND FATIMA ALIAH Q. DIMAPORO

AN ACT
CREATING ADDITIONAL REGIONAL TRIAL COURT BRANCH IN THE
PROVINCE OF LANAO DEL NORTE TO BE STATIONED IN BACOLOD,
LANAO DEL NORTE, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SECTION (14),
PARAGRAPH (G) OF BATAS PAMBANSA BILANG 129, OTHERWISE
KNOWN AS THE “JUDICIARY REORGANIZATION ACT OF 1980”, AS
AMENDED, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR

EXPLANATORY NOTE

This bill seeks to create additional Regional Trial Court branch in the
Province of Lanao del Norte to be stationed in Bacolod, Lanao del Norte.

With the passage of Republic Act 9974 entitled, “An Act Providing for the
Reapportionment of Legislative Districts in the Province of Lanao del Norte”,
and Republic Act 9724 entitled, “An Act Separating the City of Iligan from the
First Legislative District of the Province of Lanao del Norte to Constitute the
Lone Legislative District of the City of Iligan, only two (2) regional trial court
branches hear and dispose all of the cases of a more than five hundred

thousand population in the province.

For the speedier administration of justice and for an easier access to our

judicial courts, the immediate passage of this bill is highly recommended.

REP. ont axzn omarono

REP. FATIMA Q. DIMAPORO


Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City

FIFTEENTH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

HOUSE BILL NO. 253 6

INTRODUCED BY HONORABLE IMELDA QUIBRANZA-DIMAPORO AND
FATIMA ALIAH Q. DIMAPORO

AN ACT
CREATING ADDITIONAL REGIONAL TRIAL COURT BRANCH IN THE
PROVINCE OF LANAO DEL NORTE TO BE STATIONED IN BACOLOD,
LANAO DEL NORTE, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SECTION (14),
PARAGRAPH (G) OF BATAS PAMBANSA BILANG 129, OTHERWISE KNOWN
AS THE “JUDICIARY REORGANIZATION ACT OF 1980”, AS AMENDED,
AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR

SECTION 1. Section 14, paragraph (g) of Batas Pambansa Bilang 129,
otherwise known as “The Judiciary Reorganization Act of 1980”, as amended, is
hereby further amended to read as follows:

“SECTION 14. Regional Trial Courts. —

eae

[Eight] NINE branches (Branches I to VII, XXI and XXVII) for the province of
Lanao del Norte and the city of lligan, Branches I to VI with seats at Iligan City,
and Branch VI, XXI, AND XXVII AT BACOLOD;

ks
ONE BRANCH IN BACOLOD, LANAO DEL NORTE

SECTION 2. The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, in coordination
with the Secretary of the Department of Justice, shall immediately include in
the Court’s program the operationalization of a Regional Trial Court branch for
the Province of Lanao del Norte to be stationed at Bacolod, the funding of
which shall be included in the annual General Appropriations Act.

SECTION 8. This Act shall take effect upon its approval.

Approved.
Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES,
Quezon City, Metro Manila
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS

First Regular Session

House Bill No. 24

Introduced by HONORABLE ARNULFO F.GO

EXPLANATORY NOTE
Section 8, Article XVI (General Provisions) of the Constitution states:
“Sec. 8. The State shall, from time to time, review to

upgrade the pensions and other benefits due to retirees of both the
government and the private sectors.

Inspired by the foregoing constitutional mandate and with a view of promoting efficiency,
competency, integrity, progressiveness as well as equality among government personnel, this bill sceks
to grant all government personnel an automatic promotion of one (1) salary grade higher than the salary
grade last held prior to their retirement from the government service. It is only but proper to give the
government personnel who have unselfishly dedicated the best years of their lives in the government
due recognition for their services.

A similar incentive is granted to the personnel of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the
Philippine National Police. It is hoped that the said incentive should likewise be extended to all
government personnel who are considered the government's backbone in delivering basic services to
the people. :

In view of the foregoing, approval of this bill is earnestly sought.



Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City, Metro Manila

FIFTEENTH CONGRESS

Regular Session

House Bill No,_2412

Introduced by HONORABLE ARNULFO F. ‘GO

AN ACT
GRANTING A PROMOTION OF ONE SALARY GRADE HIGHER TO ALL GOVERNMENT
PERSONNEL UPON THEIR COMPULSORY RETIREMENT FROM THE SERVICE AND
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR

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

STION 1. All government personnel shall, upon their compulsory retirement from the
government service, be granted an automatic promotion equivalent to a salary grade higher than the
salary grade last held prior to their retirement. For this purpose, the adjusted salary grade of the retiree
shall be used as basis for computation of the retirement benefits.

‘TION 2. The Civil Service Commission (CSC) shall, in coordination with the Government
Service Insurance System (GSIS) and the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), with sixty
(60) days from the approval of this Act, issue the necessary rules and regulations for the effective

implementation of this Act.

SECTION 3. The amount necessary for the effective implementation of this Act is hereby
authorized to be included in the appropriations for the departments, agencies, bureaus, other national
offices and the respective budget of local government units of the year following its enactment and
thereafter.
Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Batasang Pambansa, Quezon City
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS
First Regular Session
HOUSE BILL NO. __
2_9_8_6__
Authored by HON. lOSE PH VICTOR G. ElERCITO
AN ACT
AMENDING BATAS PAMBANSA BLG.881 OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE
OMNIBUS ELECTION CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES,
AS AMENDED AND
FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
Be enacted
by the Senate and House of Representatives
of the Philippines
in
Congress assembled:
SECTION 1. Section
256 of Batas Pambansa Big, 881 , otherwise
known as the Election Code of the Philippines, as amended,
hereby further
amended, hereby further amended to read as follows:
"SEC.256.APPEALS.- Appeals from
any decision
rendered
by
[the regional trial]
courts of GENERALAND LIMITED JURISDICTION [under
Section 251 and paragraph
two,
Section 253 hereof with
respect to quo
warranto petitions filed] in election contests[ affecting municipal officers, the
aggrieved
party may appeal to the intermediate
Appelate Court] SHALL BE
FILED WITH THE COMMISSION within five (5) days [after
receipt of a copy]
FROMTHE PROMULGATION of the decision OR RECEIPTOF THE DECISION.
No motion for reconsideration
shall be entertained
by the court.
The appeals shall be decided within sixty (60) days after the case has been
submitted
for decision, BUT NOT LATERTHAN NINETY(90) DAYS FROMTHE
FILING OF THE APPEAL."
SEC. 2.
new provision:
Article
XXI is hereby amended to
include the following
"SECTION 256-A.
EXECUTION PENDING APPEAL IS
NOT ALLOWED.-
NOTWITHSTANDING
THE PROVISION OF THE RULES OF
THE COURT, EXECUTION
OF JUDGEMENT PENDING APPEALS SHALL NOT
APPLY TO ELECTION CASES. "
SEC. 3
Section 257 of Batas Pambansa Big. 881 is hereby amended
to read as follow:
"SEC. 267 DECISION ON ELECTION CONTES.- THE PARTYWHO
HAS BEEN DECLAREDELECTEDSHALL HAVETHE RIGHT TO ASSUMEOFFICE
UPON FINALITY OF JUDGMENT."
Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City

FIFTEENTH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

HOUSE BILL NO. 2055

Introduced by HON. MA. AMELITA A. CALIMBAS - VILLAROSA

EXPLANATORY NOTE

The laudable purpose of Batasan Pambansa Blg. 702, as amended by
Republic Act No. 8344, prohibiting hospitals or medical clinics from requiring
deposit or advance payment before administration of medical treatment in
emergency cases needs to be complemented with similar prohibition on the
practice of refusing the discharge of indigent patients by mere reason of
inability practice to pay the corresponding hospitals bills incurred for having
received such emergency medical treatment and support. The former should
be supported by the latter if the intention is to afford complete relief to our less
fortunate brethren.

There are many ways to settle unpaid bills without requiring continued
confinement of fully recuperated patient who, instead of being able to resume
his occupation and thereby earn enough to pay his obligation, faces mounting
bills as days go by. For instance, the Philippines Health Insurance Corporation
may be tapped to establish some sort of a health fund that can grant
emergency loans to indigent patients for whom Department of Social Welfare
and Development of the local government units can offer acceptable guaranty.
The SSS and GSIS may likewise be called to render assistance by extending
similar emergency loans if the patient is a member in good standing.

In view of the foregoing, approval of this measure is eamestly
recommended

MA. AMELITA A. CALIMBAS - VILLAROSA


Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City

FIFTEENTH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

2055

HOUSE BILL NO.

Introduced by HON. MA. AMELITA A. CALIMBAS — VILLAROSA

AN ACT
PROHIBITING THE PRACTICE OF WITHHOLDING THE DISCHARGE OF
INDIGENT PATIENTS WHO FAIL TO PAY HOSPITAL OR MEDICAL BILLS
INCURRED DUE TO EMERGENCY TREATMENT AND SUPPORT,
AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE, SECTION 3 OF BATAS PAMBANSA
BLG. 702, AS AMENDED BY REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8344

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

SECTION 1. Section 3 of Batas Pambansa Big. 702, as amended by
Republic Act No. 8344, is hereby amended to read follows:

Section 3. After the hospital or medical clinic mentioned
above shall have administered medical treatment and support, it
may cause the transfer of the patient, preferably to a government
hospital, especially in the case of poor or indigent patients.

Under no circumstance shall poor or indigent patients
be kept on continued confinement and refused discharge by
reason of inability to pay hospital or medical incurred for
emergency treatment and support.

SECTION 2. Section 5 of Batas Pambansa Blg. 702, as amended by
republic Act No. 8344, is hereby amended to read as follows:

Section 5. The Department of Health in collaboration
with the Department of Social Welfare and Development shall
promulgate the necessary rules and regulations to carry out the
provisions of this Act.

SECTION 3. This Act shall take effect upon its approval

Approved.
Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City, Metro Manila

FIFTEENTH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

House Bill No,__ 2239

INTRODUCED BY HON. MARCELINO “MARCY” R. TEODORO

EXPLANATORY NOTE

The District engineer, under SEC. 1911, of the Revised Administrative
Code, has “general supervision over the construction, maintenance, and repair of
provincial public works of the district to which he is assigned and over all
contracts connected with such works. “

District engineers carry so much responsibility that he cannot just be any
other qualified person. He must be a person so well qualified for the position to
be able to serve fully and properly perform the maintenance of all public works
within his jurisdiction. Otherwise, the people will ultimately suffer the
consequences of his inefficiency and incompetency.

This bill seeks to provide an additional check to the appointment of the
District engineer by requiring the Department of Public Works and Highways to
seek the concurrence of the congressional representatives on the former's
appointment, assignment or designation.

Thus, passage of this bill is earnestly sought.

MARCELINO “MARCY” R. TEODORO.

Representative, 1* District
City of Marikina


Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City, Metro Manila

FIFTEENTH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

House Bill No.__2239

INTRODUCED BY HON. MARCELINO “MARCY” R. TEODORO

AN ACT
REQUIRING THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS AND HIGHWAYS
(DPWH) TO SEEK THE CONCURRENCE OF THE REPRESENTATIVE ON
THE APPOINTMENT, ASSIGNMENT OR DESIGNATION OF A DISTRICT
ENGINEER WITHIN THE TERRITORIAL JURISDICTION OF HIS
LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT

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

SECTION 1. No District Engineer shall be appointed, assigned or
designated in any DPWH Engineering District without the concurrence of the
Representative of the Legislative District which has territorial jurisdiction over
such DPWH Engineering District.

SECTION 2. All laws, executive orders, proclamations, rules and
regulations inconsistent with this Act are hereby amended, repealed or modified
accordingly.

SECTION 3. This Act shall take effect upon its approval.

Approved,
Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City, Metro Manila

FIFTEENTH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

House BillNo.__24'7S

INTRODUCED BY HON. MARCELINO “MARCY” R. TEODORO

EXPLANATORY NOTE

All Filipinos, regardless of their status and background, shall be entitled to
equal protection of the laws. Not only is this a constitutionally enshrined and
perhaps an inherent right, but is also meant to guarantee that all citizens shall
benefit from what the State can offer to help them alleviate their living conditions.

The proposed measure hopes to pursue this direction by providing that all
contractual and casual government employees who have rendered at least six
(6) months of continuous government service shall be entitled to payment of their
corresponding daily wages during special public holidays as may be proclaimed
by the President of the Philippines.

This is only just and proper since these employees also render the same
amount of work and service, as regular employees do. The status of their
employment is immaterial and should not be used against them.

Hence, immediate enactment of this measure is earnestly sought.

Mute Tro
MARCELINO “MARCY” R. TEQDORO

Representative, 1® District
City of Marikina


Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City, Metro Manila

FIFTEENTH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

House Bill No.__2479

INTRODUCED BY HON. MARCELINO “MARCY” R. TEODORO

AN ACT
PROVIDING THAT ALL CONTRACTUAL AND CASUAL EMPLOYEES IN THE
GOVERNMENT SERVICE BE PAID THEIR CORRESPONDING WAGES DURING
SPECIAL PUBLIC HOLIDAYS, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR

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

SECTION 1. All contractual and casual government employees who have
rendered at least, six (6) months of continuous government service shall be entitled
to payment of their corresponding daily wages during special public holidays as may
be proclaimed by the President of the Philippines.

SEC. 2. The amount necessary for the effective implementation of this Act
shall be charged to the appropriations of the respective government agencies
Wherein such contractual and casual employees are employed. Thereafter, such
sums as may be necessary for its continued implementation shall be charged to the
Annual General Appropriations Act.

SEC. 3. All laws, presidential decrees, executive orders, rules and
regulations or proclamations, and other issuances, contrary or inconsistent with the
provisions of this Act are hereby repealed or amended accordingly.

SEC. 4. This Act shall take effect upon its approval.

Approved,
Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES,
Quezon City

15® CONGRESS
First Regular Session

HOUSE BILLNO. __ 21 9A

Introduced by REP. SALVADOR H. ESCUDERO III

EXPLANATORY NOTE.

This bill seeks to lower the age requirement for Professional Social Workers from

twenty-one to eighteen

Republic Act 1373 regulates the practice of social work and the operation of social
work agencies and this legislation was enacted on June 19, 1965, at that time the age of
majority was twenty-one years of age

Our graduates today are much younger because of the removal of grade seven at the
elementary level. Furthermore, the age of majority is eighteen years old.

With the pegging of the entry level for social workers at twenty-one years of age,
young graduates are unintentionally deprived of a profession and become productive
‘members of society.

In view of the foregoing, approval of this bill is highly and earnestly recommended

DD
SALVADOR H. ESCUDERO III

Representative
1* District, Sorsogon



Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City

15" CONGRESS
First Regular Session

HOUSE BILLNO. 2194

Introduced by REP. SALVADOR H. ESCUDERO II

AN ACT
AMENDING SEC. 12 (b) OF REPUBLIC ACT 4373, ENTITLED “AN ACT
REGULATE THE PRACTICE OF SOCIAL WORK AND THE OPERATION OF
SOCIAL WORK AGENCIES IN THE PHILIPPINES AND FOR OTHER
PURPOSES”

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

SECTION 1. Section 12 (b) of Republic Act 4373 is hereby amended do read as
follows:

“Section 12 (b) He or she is at least eighteen years of age”

SEC. 2. Repealing Clause. All laws or parts of any law inconsistent with the provision
of this Act are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

SEC. 3. Separability Clause. If any provision of this act is held invalid, the other

provision not affected thereby shall continue in operation.

SEC. 4. Effectivity Clause. This act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its
publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation.

Approved,
Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
‘Quezon City

FIFTEENTH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

HOUSE BILLNO. 213

Introduced by Rep. Winston T. Castelo

EXPLANATORY NOTE

The policy of the State to promote just and dynamic social order that ensures prosperity
and frees the people from poverty via policies that provide adequate goods and services,
promote rising standard of living and improve quality of life could be best demonstrated if a law
can be enacted adjusting their rate of pension.

The adjustment sought under this proposed measure is an increase of Two Thousand
Peson (P2,000) monthly in the pension of retirees and increase of One Thousand Pesos
(P1,000) monthly for their beneficiaries.

The present rates of pension stipulated in the old Republic Act No. 3050 as amended by
P.D. No. 1148 no longer reflect realistic subsistence level. As a matter of fact, many of our old
teachers have already passed away and those who are stil alive ae-very olf and ee

2\eistrict, Quezon City



Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City

FIFTEENTH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

32
HOUSE BILL NO. at

Introduced by Rep. Winston Castelo

AN ACT
INCREASING THE PENSION OF TEACHERS RETIRED UNDER ACT NO. 3050
AS AMENDED BY P.D. NO. 1148, PROVIDING FUNDS THEREFOR
AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES

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

SECTION 1. This Act shall cover all teachers in the private and public schools who have
retired under Republic Act No. 3050, as amended by P.D. No. 1148.

SEC. 2. The pension presently received by teachers who retired under R.A. No. 3050
as amended by P.D. 1148 shall be increased by two thousand pesos monthly and those of their
beneficiaries shall be increased by one thousand pesos monthly per beneficiary.

SEC. 3. There is hereby appropriated for the current annual appropriations and annually
thereafter, out of any funds in the National Treasury not othenwise appropriated, sums as may
be necessary to cover the increase in pensions provided herein.

SEC. 4. All laws, executive orders, proclamations, presidential decrees, rules and
regulations, and other issuances, or parts thereof, inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are
hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

SEC. 5. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in the Official
Gazette or in at least two (2) national newspapers of general circulation, whichever comes
earlier.

Approved,
Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
Quezon City, Metro Manila
15" CONGRESS

HOUSE BILL NO. __ 2262

Introduced by Representative Roman T. Romulo
Lone District of Pasig City

EXPLANATORY NOTE

This proposed bill seeks to provide for a more comprehensive coverage of
the term "basic necessities” under the Republic Act No. 7581, otherwise known
as ‘The Price Act” in order to protect Filipino consumers from variable food price
spikes in keeping with the constitutional guarantee of economic equality and
general welfare.

By its very nature, water is one of the most essential needs of life. As we
face the fast changing and erratic economic condition, security and accessibility
to potable water at acceptable prices must be ensured. There is a need to be
proactive and adapt new measures to cope with the foreseen and possible
significant imbalance between the supply and demand for drinking water.

Under Section 6 of Republic Act No. 7581, the prices of basic necessities
shall automatically be frozen at their prevailing prices or placed under automatic
price control under certain circumstances such as during a state of calamity and
during emergencies. Further, Section 7 of the same Act provides that a price
ceiling may be imposed on any basic necessity or prime commodity during
similar situations.

Through the amendment proposed in this Bill, appropriate measures to
stabilize the price of drinking and bottled water would be enforced, implemented
and protected by the Price Act and hence, strengthen consumer security
especially during severe shortages, calamities and economic crisis.

For these reasons, the passage of this bill is earnestly sought.

Pies COS
HON. ROMAN T. ROMULO


HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
Quezon City, Metro Manila

15" CONGRESS
HOUSE BILLNO._2262

Introduced by Representative Roman T. Romulo
Lone District of Pasig City

AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 3 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7581, OTHERWISE
KNOWN AS “THE PRICE ACT”, TO INCLUDE BOTTLED DRINKING WATER
AS ONE OF THE BASIC NECCESITIES

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

Section 1. Section 3 (1) of Republic Act No. 7581, otherwise known as the “Price
Act”, is hereby amended to read as follows:

Section 3. Definition of Terms. — For purposes of this Act,
the term

(1) “Basic necessities” “includes: rice; corn; bread; fresh,
dried and canned fish and other marine products, fresh pork,
beef and poultry meat; fresh eggs; fresh and processed milk;
fresh vegetables; root crops; bottled drinking water, coffee;
sugar; cooking oil; salt; laundry soap; detergents; firewood;
charcoal; candles; and drugs classified as essential by the
Department of Health

Section 2. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in the
Official Gazette or in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation

Approved
Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City

15™ CONGRESS
First Regular Session

House BILL No.__ 2979

Introduced by REP. SALVADOR H. ESCUDERO II

EXPLANATORY NOTE

This bill absolutely decriminalizes the crime of libel as defined and penalized in
Article 355 of the Revised Penal Code.

The rationale for this proposal is to accord greater protection to freedom of speech
and expression specifically those done by means of writing and other similar means by taking
away the threat or fear of incarceration, restraint of liberty and even fine.

It is likewise submitted that a strong print media could give great service to the
Filipino people in providing an effective mechanism of complete and fearless transparency
over the excesses of government in the exercise of its powers and prerogatives.

Immediate passage of this bill is thus earnestly sought.

alge Pl
SALVADOR H. ESCEDERO II
Representative
1" District, Sorsogon



15" CONGRESS
First Regular Session

HOUSE BILLNO.__297 9

Introduced by REP. SALVADOR H. ESCUDERO III

AN ACT
DECRIMINALIZING LIBEL BY MEANS OF WRITE OR SIMILAR MEANS
REPEALING ARTICLE 355 OF THE REVISED PENAL CODE

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

SECTION 1. Article 355 of the Revised Penal Code is hereby completely repealed
thereby decriminalizing libel committed by means of writing, printing, lithography.
engraving. radio, phonograph, painting, theatrical exhibition, cinematographic exhibition, or
any similar means,

SEC. 2. All laws, executive orders, decrees, instructions, rules and regulations
contrary or inconsistent with the provision of this Act are hereby repealed or modified
accordingly.

SEC. 3. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its complete publication in
the Official Gazene or in at least two (2) national newspaper of general circulation whichever
comes first.

Approved,
Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City

FIFTEENTH CONGRESS .
First Regular Session

HOUSE BILLNO,__2724

Introduced by: Honorable ALFREDO D. MARANON, HL

EXPLANATORY NOTE

The City of Sagay is a city created by virtue of republic Act No. 8192 approved
on June 11, 1996, It has a population of more than one hundred fifty thousand (150,000)
scattered among the twenty four (24) urbanized and developed Barangays. Since its
establishment the socio-economic climate of the new city has tremendously improved
Commercial and industrial activities increased and interpersonal relationships of the
inhabitants have become more vibrant. Court litigations are unavoidable.

‘The nearest regional trial court is in Cadiz City, some twenty (20) kilometers
away. More than sixty (60%) of the case load of the Cadiz City regional trial court branch
in the City of Sagay. 3

In order to ease the burden of the Cadiz City court and to give the residents of.
Sagay City better access to the court, this Bill proposes to establish a regional trial court
branch in the City of Sagay.

In the interest of promoting justice, approval of this Bill is earnestly sought.

CLD a
DOD. MARANON HI



Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City

FIFTEENTH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

nousesitno 2721

Introduced by: Honorable ALFREDO D. MARAN¢

i,

AN ACT
CREATING A REGIONAL TRIAL COURT BRANCH IN THE PROVINCE OF
NEGROS OCCIDENTAL TO BE STATIONED IN SAGAY CITY, AMENDING
FOR THE PURPOSE SECTION (14) G OF BATAS PAMBANSA BILANG 129,
OTHERWISE KNOWN AS “THE JUDICIARY REORGANIZATION ACT OF
1980, AS AMENDED, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR

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

SECTION 1. Section 14 Paragraph (g) of Batas Pambansa Bilang 129, otherwise
known as the Judiciary Reorganization Act of 1980, as amended, is
hereby further amended to read as follows

Section 14. Regional Trial Courts. ~
XXXX

“(g) [Sixty-nine] SEVENTY Regional Trial Judges shall be
commissioned for the Sixth Judicial Region. There shall be

XXXX

[Twenty-five] TWENTY-SIX branches with seats thereat for the
Province of Negros Occidental and the Cities of Bacolod, Bago,
Cadiz, La Carlota, SAGAY, San Carlos, and Silay, with seats at
Silay City, Bacolod City, Himamaylan, San Carlos City, Cadiz
City, SAGAY CITY, Kabankalan, Bago City, La Carlota City and
Sipalay.” (RESPECTIVELY)


SECTION 2.

SECTION 3.

Approved

The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court in coordination with the
Secretary of the Department of Justice shall immediately include in
the Court’s program the operationalization of a Regional Trial
Court branch for the Province of Negros Occidental to be stationed
at Sagay City, the funding of which shall be included in the
General Appropriations Act.

‘This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in a
newspaper of general circulation.
Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES,
Quezon City

__ th Congress
__~ Regular Session

HOUSE BILLNO.__ 2682

Introduced by HON. ROGELIO J. ESPINA

EXPLANATORY NOTE

It is the policy of the State to establish, develop, and promote a just and dynamic social
order that will ensure the prosperity and independence of the nation and free the people from
poverty through policies that provide adequate social services, promote full employment, a
rising standard of living, and an improved quality of life for all

Reality speaks for itself that the purchasing power of the peso is devaluated because
of the spiralling cost of basic commodities, as wels as the rising cost of transport, education
and shelter.

Under the preserit Social Security System pension plan, retirees receive an average
pension of only about P1,400.00 a month. It is impossible to survive with this amount
nowadays.

Thus, pursuant to to the State policy above-mentioned, the monthly retirement pension
of all SSS members should be increased to a more realistic level considering the present cost
of living.

“Hence, this bill

Lone District, Biliran


Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES,
Quezon City

__ th Congress
Regular Session

HOUSE BILL NO. 2682

Introduced by HON. ROGELIO J. ESPINA

AN ACT INCREASING THE MONTHLY RETIREMENT PENSION OF ALL SOCIAL
SECURITY SYSTEM (SSS) RETIREES TO A MINIMUM LEVEL OF SIX THOUSAND
PESOS (P6,000.00) UNDER AN ECONOMIC ADJUSTMENT PENSION PROGRAM.

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

SECTION 1.

SECTION 2.

SECTION 3.

SECTION 4.

SECTION 5.

Approved.

This act shall provide for the adjustment of Social Security System
monthly pension to Three Thousand Pesos (P3,000.00), provided that in
the succeeding years upon approval of this Act, said amount will be
increased annually by not less than One Thousand Five-Hundred Pesos
(P1,500.00) until the total monthly pension shall be at least Six Thousand
Pesos (6,000.00) per month

The amount necessary to implement the provisions of this Act shall be
derived from the Reserve Fund of the Social Security System.

The Social Security System shall promulgate such necessary rules and
regulations to implement the provisions of this Act.

All laws, presidential decrees, executive orders, rules and regulations
inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are hereby repealed or
modified accordingly.

This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in two (2)
newspapers of general circulation.
Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City

FIFTEENTH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

HOUSE BILL NO. 2178

EXPLANATORY NOTE

This Bill seeks to provide for three (3) Regional Trial Court Branches in
the Province of Laguna particularly in the Municipality of Cabuyao.

This should not overemphasize the increase in the rate of criminality in
Laguna. This Bill intends to ease the burden of resolving cases under the jurisdiction
of the Regional Trial Court. While there are fourteen (14) Regional Trial Court
Branches presently existing in Laguna, the Municipality of Cabuyao still has to have
its own branch. Its residents still go to the neighboring town to seek redress for their
grievances.

To distinctly recognize the joint efforts of providing a more efficacious judicial
system and administration of justice, the approval ofthis bill is earnestly
recommended. /

| ‘
JUSTIN aang Gone SB. CHIPECO



Republic of the Philippines.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City

FIFTEENTH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

2178
HOUSE BILL NO.

AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR THREE (3) BRANCHES OF THE REGIONAL TRIAL COURT IN THE
MUNICIPALITY OF CABUYAO, LAGUNA, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE OF SECTION
14 OF BATAS PAMBANSA BILANG 129, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE JUDICIARY
REORGANIZATION ACT OF 1980, AS AMENDED, AND APPROPRIATING 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. Section 14 of Batas Pambansa Blg. 129, otherwise known as the
Judiciary Reorganization Act of 1980 as amended, is hereby further amended to read
as follows:

“Sec. 14 Regional Trial court

XXX

(Fourteen) SEVENTEEN branches (Branches XXIV to (XXXVII) XXXVII-C)
for the province of Laguna and the City of San Pablo, Branches XXIV and XXV with
seats at Bihan, Branches XXVI to XXVIII at Sta. Cruz, Branches XXIX to XXXII at San
Pablo City, Branch XXXII at Siniloan, Branches XXXIV to XXXVII at Calamba and
Branches XXXVII-A; XXXII-B; and XXXVII-C at Cabuyao.

XXX

SEC. 2. The amount necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act shall be
included in the General Appropriations Act of the year following its enactment into
law and thereafter.

SEC. 3. This Act shall take effect upon its approval.

Approved,
Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City, Metro Manila

FIFTHTEENTH CONGRESS

First Regular Session

HOUSE BILL No._2350

INTRODUCED BY REP. RUBEN B. ECLEO, JR.

EXPLANATORY NOTE

is bill seeks to implement the provisions of Republic Act No. 7876 (An Act
Establishing a Senior Citizen Center in all Cities and Municipalities of the Philippines
and Appropriating Funds Therefore) signed in 1995 by establishing A Senior Citizens
Development Center in the Province of Dinagat Islands of Caraga Region 13.

‘The government should look after the welfare of the senior citizens especially the
poor by establishing a center where the elderly members can meet, get together and
develop camaraderie among themselves. The center can also undertake productive
activities intended to provide income to the old folks.

Such that, with the establishment of a center, senior citizens not only can be active
and appreciative but can likewise contribute in the progress of a community.

Early approval of this bill hereby most earnestly requested.

RUBEN B ECLEO, JR.


Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City, Metro Manila

FIFTHTEENTH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

HOUSE BILL N 2350

INTRODUCED BY REP. RUBEN B. ECLEO, JR.

AN ACT
IMPLEMENTING THE PROVISIONS OF REPUBLIC ACT NUMBER
7876 BY AUTHORIZING FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A SENIOR
CITIZENS DEVELOPMENT CENTER IN THE PROVINCE OF
DINAGAT ISLANDS.

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

SECTION 1. The Secretary of the Department of Social Welfare and
Development is hereby mandated to implement the provisions of Republic Act
Number 7876 by authorizing for the establishment of a senior citizens
development center in the Province of Dinagat Islands.

SECTION 2. The amount necessary to carry out the provisions of this
Act shall be funded out of the appropriations authorized by Republic Act No.
7876 for the Department of Social Welfare and Development intended for the
operational expenses of the newly legislated senior citizens. Thereafter, the
amount needed for its operation and maintenance shall be included in the annual
General Appropriations Act.

SECTION 3. This Act shall take effect upon its approval.

Approved.
Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City

15™ CONGRESS
First Regular Session

House BiLLNo,__2195

Introduced by REP. SALVADOR H. ESCUDERO III

EXPLANATORY NOTE

‘The credit card is a very useful tool. It frees us from the need to bring cash, thus,
bringing convenience and security to its users,

First time credit card holder are prone to the dangers of overspending, Once they
receive their first bill, they become shocked and realize that they have been buried under the
avalanche of tremendous interest and surcharges.

The repeal of the usury law is not license for persons to charge prohibitive interest
rates. Thus, the State has to come in to regulate the interest rates charged by credit card
companies so that a healthier economic environment will prevail for the benefit of the credit
card holder and the credit card company

a
SALVADOR H. ESCUDERO III
Representative
1* District, Sorsogon


Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City

is™ CONGRESS
First Regular Session

HOUSE BILLNO. _ 2195

Introduced by REP. SALVADOR H. ESCUDERO III

AN ACT
PROVIDING PROTECTION TO CREDIT CARD HOLDERS BY SETTING A
CEILING ON INTEREST RATES AND SURCHARGES AND PROHIBITING
HIDDEN PENALTIES OR COSTS IMPOSED BY CREDIT CARD COMPANIES,
BANKS, AND SIMILAR INSTITUTION S ON PURCHASES AND CASH
ADVANCES MADE THROUGH SUCH FACILITY

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

SECTION 1. Interest rates imposed by credit card companies on purchases and cash
advances made through such facility shall in no case be higher than 1% per month or 12% per
annum, without compounding;

SEC. 2, Surcharges or penalties shall likewise be limited to a ceiling of 1% per month,
without compounding:

SEC. 3. No other costs shall be imposed other than the foregoing except for
reasonable attorney's fees and expenses of collection completely disclosed to, sufficiently
understood by and voluntarily agreed with an applicant for credit facility;

SEC. 4, The pertinent provisions of the Truth in Lending Act shall apply suppletorily
insofar as relevant and complementary to the provisions of this Act:

SEC. 5. This Act shall take effect 15 days after its complete publication in at least two
(2) newspapers of national circulation.

Approved,
Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City

15™ CONGRESS
First Regular Session

2973

HOUSE BILL NO.

Introduced by REP. SALVADOR H. ESCUDERO III

EXPLANATORY NOTE

It is the policy of the State to care for the elderly members of our society by designing
programs o retirement and social security benefits. This is manifested by the Government's
relentless support and evolving privileges and other benefits that would help improve the
plight of retirees.

The success of our present Government in achieving its goal may be attributed to
these aged men and women who devoted the precious years of their lives tilling and laboring
in order to erect a well developed country for their future descendants.

To further affirm the program of the Government, changes are hereby enumerated to
amend Republic Act No. 8291 )GSIS Act of 1997.

Ergo, pursuant to the State Policy mentioned above, amendments must be acted upon:
promptly to augment pension benefits of Government retirees before it is too late,

Passage of this bills is earnestly recommended.

—

e200/
save 1 ESCUDERO UL

Representative
1" District, Sorsogon


Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City

15™ CONGRESS
First Regular Session

mn
HOUSE BILL.No. _ 2973

Introduced by REP. SALVADOR H. ESCUDERO III

AN ACT
AMENDING SECTION 13-A OF REPUBLIC ACT 8291 (GSIS ACT OF 1997) BY
PRESCRIBING OTHER CONDITIONS FOR ENTITLEMENT TO THE
RETIREMENT BENEFITS, UNDER SECTION 13 OF THE SAME ACT, FOR
GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES OR OFFICIAL BEING PHASED OUT AND/OR NOT.
RETAINED BY HIS __OFFICE/BUREAU/CORPORATION DUE TO.
PRIVATIZING/ABOLISHING HIS OFFICE

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

SECTION 1. Section 13-A of Republic Act 8291 (GSIS Act of 1997) is hereby
amended to read as follows:

Section 13-A. Conditions for Entitlement — A member who retires from the
service shall be entitled to the retirement benefit enumerated in paragraph (a) of
Section 13 hereof: Provided, That:

A(1)_ he has rendered at least fifteen (15) years of service;

(2) he is at least sixty (60) years of age at the time of retirement;

B(I) HE RETIRES OR HAS PREVIOUSLY RETIRED WITH TWENTY

(20) YEAR‘ AS A RESULT OF THE
ENACTMENT ECIAL LAW WHICH REORGANIZED /
INCORPORATE! / ABOLISHED HIS OFFICE AND BROUGHT
ABOUT HIS S ENTITLED TO THE

OLD AGE PEN: IT / BASIC MONTHLY PENSION AFTER THE
LAPSE OF FIVE (5) YEARS FROM THE DATE OF HIS RETIREMENT; AND,

(2) THE TOTAL REGULAR RETIREMENT GRATUITY HE HAS
PREVIOUSLY RECEIVED EXCLUDING ANY ADDITIONAL BENEFIT


GRATUITY GIVEN BY SPECIAL LAW, SHALL BE CONSIDERED AS HIS
LUMP SUM BENEFIT SHALL BENEFIT PAYMENT; AND.

C. (1) he is not receiving a monthly pension benefit from permanent total
disability.”

SEC. 2. Separability Clause. ~ In the event any portion or provision of this Act is
declared unconstitutional, the remainder of this Act or any provisions not affected thereby
shall remain in force and in effect.

SEC. 3. Effectivity. ~ This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its complete
publication in at least two (2) newspapers of national circulation.

Approved,
Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Batasang Pambansa, Quezon City

FIFTEENTH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

HOUSE BILL No. _ 285+

Authored by Hon. JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO

EXPLANATORY NOTE

Various cellphone companies look for ways to entice their
customers to avail their services through promotions and strategies.
Customers therefore are often victimized by such offerings sent by
telecommunication companies via text or short messages (SMS) that
jack up their monthly bills or consumes their pre-paid credit. While
some of the messages are received by the subscribers for free, they
still remain unsolicited.

There is a need therefore to regulate these indiscriminate
offerings by prohibiting any matter sent by network companies via text
or SMS which are not solicited by the subscriber.

This bill seeks to prohibit cellphone network companies from
unsolicited materials to their subscribers via text message or short
message service (SMS).

For these reasons, the passage of this bill is earnestly sought.

“whe”

JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO


Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Batasang Pambansa, Quezon City

FIFTEENTH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

HOUSE BILL No. _2851

Authored by Hon. JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO

AN ACT
PROHIBITING CELLPHONE NETWORK COMPANIES
FROM SENDING UNSOLICITED MATERIALS TO THEIR
SUBSCRIBERS VIA TEXT OR SHORT MESSAGE SERVICE
(SMS)

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

SECTION 1. With the exception of legitimate notifications of
past due accounts, cellphone network companies are hereby prohibited
from sending unsolicited materials such as advertisements, offering
Promotions, subscriptions and other notifications to their subscribers
via text or short message service (SMS).

SECTION 2. Penalty. - Cellphone network companies found to
have violated this Act shall be punished with a fine of Twenty
Thousand Pesos (P20,000.00) to One Hundred Thousand Pesos
(P100,000.00) per violation.

SECTION 3. Separability Clause. - If any Clause, provision,
Paragraph or part of this Act shall be declared unconstitutional or
invalid, such judgment shall not affect, invalidate or implair any other
part hereof, but such judgment shall be merely confined to the clause,
Provision, paragraph or part directly involved in the controversy in
which such judgment has been rendered.

SECTION 4. Repealing Clause. - All laws, decrees, executive
orders and other administrative issuances and parts thereof which are
inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are hereby modified,
superseded or repealed accordingly.

SECTION 5. Fffectivity. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15)

days after its complete publication in at least two (2) newspapers of
general circulation.

Approved,
Fifteenth Congress
First Regular Session

HOUSE BILL NO. 2958

Introduced by Honorable Napoleon S. Dy

EXPLANATORY NOTE

This bill seeks to establish an additional branch of the Regional Trial
Court (RTC) in Cauayan City, Isabela.

The 3" District of Isabela, comprised of seven (7) Municipalities and
one (1) component city. At present, there are two (2) Regional Trial Courts
(RTC) stationed in Cauayan City. These two (2) existing branches are
loaded with numerous cases which clog the dockets and slow down the
dispensation of justice. According to the latest census, Cauayan City has a
population of 114,254, With the influx of more settlers and residents in the
district, in Cauayan City in particular, the passage of this bill is necessary to
provide impetus to Sec. 16 of Article III (Bill of Rights) of the Constitution
which declares that, “all persons shall have the right to a speedy disposition
of their cases before all judicial, quasi-judicial, or administrative bodies.”
Hence, the creation of an additional branch of RTC in the Second Judicial
Region is of utmost importance for the people of Cauayan because it will
ease the burden of the courts and will certainly lead to a speedier resolution
of cases.

In view of the foregoing, approval of this bill is earnestly

recommended. yz

NAPO! IN


Fifteenth Congress
First Regular Session

HOUSE BILL NO. _2958

Introduced by Honorable Napoleon S. Dy

AN ACT
ESTABLISHING AN ADDITIONAL BRANCH OF THE REGIONAL
TRIAL COURT IN CAUAYAN CITY, ISABELA, AMENDING FOR
THE PURPOSE BATAS PAMBANSA BLG. 129, OTHERWISE
KNOWN AS “THE JUDICIARY REORGANIZATION ACT OF
1980,” AS AMENDED AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR

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

SECTION 1. Section 14 of Batas Pambansa Blg. 129, otherwise
known as “The Judiciary Reorganization Act of 1980,” is hereby further
amended to read as follows:

“SEC. 14. Regional Trial Courts. —
a) Xxx

XXX Xxx XXX


b) [Thirty-eight] THIRTY-NINE Regional Trial Judges
shall be commissioned for the Second Judicial Region. There shall
be:

XXX
XXX XXX XXX

[Eleven] TWELVE branches with seats thereat for the Province
of Isabela, with seats at Ilagan, Cauayan, Santiago, Cabagan, Roxas,
and Echague;

XXX XXX XXX.”

SEC. 2. The amount necessary for the effective implementation of
this Act shall be charged to the appropriations for the Supreme Court.
Thereafter, such amount as may be necessary for the continuous
implementation of this Act shall be included in the annual General
Appropriations Act.

SEC. 3. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after publication
in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation.

Approved,