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SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
•16 
AUG- 1  
All :21
SENATE
s.No. 920
K!  i
'’V:
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto
AN ACT
ENHANCING REVENUE ADMINISTRATION AND COLLECTION BY GRANTING 
AN AMNESTY ON ALL UNPAID INTERNAL REVENUE TAXES IMPOSED BY THE 
NATIONAL GOVERNMENT FOR TAXABLE YEAR 2015 AND PRIOR YEARS
Explanatory Note
The last comprehensive tax reform in the country was in 1997. After two decades, 
various sectors are now clamoring for another tax reform to make our tax system more equitable. 
However, the government should first consider granting a general tax amnesty program as a 
prelude to the adoption of a comprehensive tax reform program to give erring taxpayers an 
opportunity to come up with a clean slate and begin paying the correct taxes.
Aside from making our tax system more equitable, it is also the intent of adopting a 
comprehensive tax reform program to simplify the tax compliance requirements. The complexity 
of the current tax system makes it difficult for the small businessmen, entrepreneurs and other 
income earners to comply with the requirements of the law for the payment of taxes, thereby 
resulting in an inadvertent failure to file tax returns and pay the corresponding correct taxes due 
thereon.
This proposed measure seeks to grant a tax amnesty program to promote and enhance 
revenue administration and collection. It would also encourage voluntary compliance by the 
taxpayers to pay the correct taxes.
Also, this bill seeks to broaden the tax base by requiring taxpayers to file their Statement 
of Assets, Liabilities and Networth (SALN). By declaring the networth, this will greatly 
contribute to the government’s effort to organize taxpayers’ records and information. It will 
promote a broader tax base that will lead to collection of higher tax revenues.
The provision for immunity from civil, criminal and administrative penalties to be 
granted to erring taxpayers will encourage those operating in the underground economy to 
legitimize their business operations.
By creating a large database of taxpayers with their corresponding personal information 
and SALN, this proposed measure could greatly help the government in its effort to prevent 
money laundering in the country.
In view of the foregoing, immediate approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
ja o
PH G,
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S
e
i i ; - u
. r
"■ 
r 
e of 
' ■-! t ■ ‘rt
‘16 
AUG- 3  
P 2  21
S.B. No
SENATE
977
Introduced by Senator SONNY ANGARA
AN ACT
STRENGTHENING THE PHILIPPINE CROP INSURANCE CORPORATION (PCIC), 
AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 1467, AS AMENDED, 
OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE CHARTER OF THE PHILIPPINE CROP INSURANCE
CORPORATION
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Agriculture sector remains the main source of income and employment for 30.9% of the 
working population. It is equivalent to about 12 million of the 38.5 million total employed 
workers, based on the Philippine Statistics Authority’s (PSA) 2013 Labor Force Survey. 
According to World Bank data, 40.6% of the country’s total land area is agricultural and 51% of 
the total population still lived in rural areas in 20111. However, farmers and fisherfolk have 
remained the poorest among the basic sectors of the country, with poverty incidence higher by 
roughly 15% than the general population2. Problems in the agriculture sector are compounded 
by losses brought by natural calamities that have brought both severe drought and heavy 
rainfall. Thus, it is imperative for the government to make an effort to assist farmers and 
fisherfolk through the agricultural insurance program. Agricultural insurance program is one of 
the micro-Zarea-based schemes that provide protection to one of the most vulnerable sectors in 
the Philippines—the agriculture sector3.
This bill was originally filed in the House of Representatives during the 16th Congress as 
House Bill (HB) No. 5024 by Representatives Arthur C. Yap, Agapito H. Guanlao, Gina P. De 
Venecia, Pryde Henry A. Teves, Anthony M., Bravo And Cresente C. Paez, et al. This bill 
intends to expand the agricultural crops that can be insured by the Philippine Croip Insurance 
Corporation (PCIC) 
by including corn crops, high-value commercial crops, livestock, 
aquaculture and fishery products, agroforestry crops and forest plantations, provide life and 
accident insurance to both farmers and fisherfolk, and to strengthen the financial capacity of the 
PCIC by mandating the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) to remit P5 million 
annually until the unreleased government premium subsidy is fully paid and to increase the 
PCIC’s capitalization from P2 billion to P10 billion. It is our hope that this bill could provided 
financial security that farmers and fisherfolk really needs and deserves. In view of the foregoing, 
immediate approval of this bill into law is earnestly sought.
S j^N Y  ANGARA
1 Improving Credit Access for the i'ood and Agriculture Sector I'hrough Enhanced Implementation of Existing 
Policies and New Strategies”, Gary Teves, Discussion Paper No. 2014-15, UP School of Economics, November 2014.
2 Risks, Shocks, Building Resilience: Philippines, PIDS 2015-2016 Economic Policy Monitor, 2016.
’ Ibid.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E  
S.B. No. 
50
I
JUN 3 0 2
B  Y ;----
V BILLS ^
Introduced by Senator Francis N. Pangilinan
AN ACT
GRANTING CIVIL SERVICE ELIGIBILITY TO GOVERNMENT 
EMPLOYEES, UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS, WHOSE STATUS OF 
APPOINTMENT IS EITHER CASUAL OR CONTRACTUAL AND WHO HAVE 
RENDERED A TOTAL OF FIVE (5) YEARS OF EFFICIENT SERVICE
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The government is the biggest employer of the country, with approximately 1.4 million 
civil servants in its employ in 2010. Majority of the total non-career positions hold casual 
and contractual positions. Government workers who have civil service eligibilities in the 
first or second level are entitled to occupy regular or permanent positions in government 
while the non-eligible government workers are hired as casual or contractual employment.
Casual and contractual employees in government are required to be civil service 
eligible to be considered for regular employment. They are not entitled to benefits and 
privileges accorded to regular employees despite their long years in government service. 
Considering the services they extend in all government offices vis-a-vis the insufficient 
benefits and privileges accorded the casual and contractual employees, the government 
should grant these dedicated employees who have rendered efficient service in the 
bureaucracy an opportunity to obtain their civil service eligibility. Casual and contractual 
employees deserve to be given the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of their hard work 
and perseverance such as having job security.
It is, therefore, urged that the legislature pass this measure granting civil service 
eligibility to casual and contractual employees who have been rendering uninterrupted 
service in the government for five (5) years.
FRAN&ISN. PANGILINAN
V Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINE 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E
S.B. No. 
67R
‘Sifire of tl) ’ >.-r, ,.i
’16 JUL 20 P3 :25
it t ' l  i ! . f 
■ r>y.
Introduced by Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " Aquino IV
AN ACT DECLARING EVERY 10th OF FEBRUARY OF EACH YEAR AS NATIONAL SAFER INTERNET
DAY IN THE PHILIPPINES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Internet has been integrated into the daily lives of billions around the world, with
the Philippines ranked 16th out of 196 nations in 2014 with over 39 million local Internet users1.
Thanks to the World Wide Web, families here and abroad stay connected, news is 
readily available, our disaster preparedness has improved, and the business landscape is 
forever changed.
This bill calls for the celebration of National Safer Internet Day to acknowledge both the 
challenges and opportunities brought forth by this technology that has been integrated in the 
lives of families, communities and the country.
Through the celebration of National Safer Internet Day, the public would be made aware 
of the importance of creating a safe, secure and favorable online environment.
The Internet exposes the public to a wealth of information and varying perceptions. The 
lack of safeguards and controls on the web has allowed cyber abuses never before thought of.
What's more, the Internet is con.stantly growing and changing. We are only beginning to 
understand its implications and tap into its capabilities.
National Safer Internet Day should be an annual reminder of our responsibilities as 
patrons of the Internet.
Beyond this, it is also a venue to discuss the constantly changing landscape of the World 
Wide Web and discover how best to maximize the ever-expanding online realm.
In view of the foregoing, the approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
Senator 
Benigno "Qfem" A. Ac(ijino IV
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session
S E N A T E  
S.B.No. 116
TIME:
BILLS & (index
Introduced by Senator Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III
AN ACT AMENDING SECTION 53 (B) OF REPUBLIC ACT 
NO. 9184, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS “AN ACT 
PROVIDING FOR THE MODERNIZATION, 
STANDARDIZATION AND REGULATION OF THE 
PROCUREMENT ACTIVITIES OF THE GOVERNMENT” 
AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
According to the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk 
Reduction in its “The Human Cost of Weather Related Disasters” 
report, the Philippines is ranked fourth most disaster-prone country 
in the world with a total of 274 weather related disasters recorded 
from 1995 to 2015. Our country is also among countries with the 
highest number of affected people at 130 million.1
Local government units (LGUs) and local offices of the 
Executive Departments are in the frontlines of measures that 
address any calamity. One problem that LGUs and local offices 
encounter is the strict implementation of Section 53 (b) of 
Republic Act No. 9184, otherwise known as ''An Act Providing 
For The Modernization, Standardization And Regulation Of The 
Procurement Activities Of The GovernmenF (Government 
Procurement Reform Act or “GPRA,” hereafter), which requires 
the existence of a calamity and a declaration of a “state of 
calamity” before a procuring entity may resort to negotiated 
procurements.
1 http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/545760/scitech/weather/philippines- 
4th-most-disaster-prone-country-in-the-world-un-report
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE } 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
}
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A X E q 
S.B. No. 
<^^-0
XS) 
TIM E:
B IL L S  &  INDEX
In tro d u c e d  b y  SENATOR VICENTE C. SOTTO III
AN ACT
BANNING THE USE OF FIRECRACKERS 
EXCEPT IN DESIGNATED AREAS DONE BY PROFESSIONALS
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Section 5, Article II of the Philippine Constitution provides:
"The maintenance of peace and' order, the 
protection of life, liberty, and property, and promotion of 
the general welfare are essential for the enjoyment by 
all the people of the blessings of democracy."
According to the Department of Health Secretary Janet Garin, there 
were more firecracker-related injuries this year compared to last year, and 
victims were getting younger. Moreoever, from December 21, 2015 to 
January 5, 2016, the agency recorded 929 firecracker-related injuries and 
one death. This is eight percent higher compared to the same period last 
year. Of these cases, 33 needed amputations. More than 500 victims were 
aged 14 and below.
To prevent this yearly mishap, total ban on the use of firecrackers is 
necessary. The bill seeks to have an orderly, safe and peaceful celebration of 
events without risk of injury or death.
In view of the foregoing, the passage of this bill is earnestly 
recommended.
VICENTE
SOTTO III
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE 
s.No. 8 6 0
Z\ y
 
(if i i .  
. > 1 . 1  
M
'16 JUL 21 
P3:43
tu
‘V:
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto
AN ACT
ESTABLISHING THE NATIONAL MARICULTURE PROGRAM, PROVIDING FUNDS 
THEREFOR, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
Explanatory Note
This bill aims to strengthen the Philippine fisheries sector through the formulation of a 
National Mariculture Program adopting the ecosystem-based approach. It seeks to expand and 
strengthen Mariculture Parks and Zones and proposes the creation of the Maritime Zone 
Advisory Council consisting of representatives from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic 
Resources-Department of Agriculture (BFAR-DA), the Local Government Unit (LGU) 
Agriculturist, 
the 
LGU 
Planning 
and 
Development 
Coordinator, 
fisherfolk 
cooperatives/organizations and business with direct involvement in mariculture.
The bill sets a P500-Million initial fund for its implementation and mandates the Land 
Bank of the Philippines to extend financial assistance to fisher-folk at easy terms, low interest 
rates and low amortizations. The BFAR and the Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center 
shall extend technical assistance and recommend culture structures and procedures, among 
others, to ensure effective implementation. This bill provides for the establishment of physical, 
and socio-economic support infrastructures to ensure the viability of investments and equitable 
share of fisher-folk and LGUs from sustainable mariculture.
The Philippines is endowed with vast marine and coastal resources. Of the 2.2 million 
square kilometers of territorial waters, including the Exclusive Economic Zone, around 266,000 
sq. kms. are under the jurisdiction of around 900 coastal cities and towns along the whole length 
of the country’s 36,289 km. coastline. Our archipelago lies at the Earth’s center of marine 
biodiversity, the Coral Triangle, which hosts thousands of endemic and migratory species. We 
also lie in the Western Central Pacific (Food and Agriculture Office Statistical Area 71), deemed 
to be one of the higlily diverse marine areas and covered by the Convention on the Conservation 
and Management of Highly Migratory Fish Stocks in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean.1
Fish is a major source of protein, constituting 11.7 percent of the Filipino diet, at 38 
kilograms annual per capita.2 In fine weather, coastal folk can depend on the sea for food and 
livelihood. The map of coastal areas largely reflects the most densely-populated areas, more so, 
of poor Filipinos migrating to where they can get libreng ulam. Likewise, coastal folk cut 
mangrove trees for fuel, charcoal production and house construction materials.
1 Food and Agriculture Organization -  Major Fishing Areas in the Pacific Ocean 
http://www.fao.org/docrep/wl 31 Oe/wl 310E04.htm
2
Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources -  Other Fishery Information 2014: Food Consumption 
http://www.bfar.da.gov.ph/profile?id=3#post
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
l| 
jSenatp 
■16 JUL 19 P5:26
SENATE
s. No. 
602
Hi
P
PY;
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” Trillanes IV
AN ACT
REQUIRING ALL GOVERNMENT AGENCIES, INSTRUMENTALITIES LOCAL 
GOVERNMENT UNITS, AND GOVERNMENT OWNED AND CONTROLLED 
CORPORATIONS 
(GOCCs) AND 
PRIVATE 
ESTABLISHMENTS 
TO 
USE 
SECURITY WATER-MARKED PAPER IN ALL RECEIPTS AND INVOICES 
PERMITS, LICENSES, CLEARANCES, OFFICIAL PAPERS OR DOCUMENTS
EXPLANATORY NOTE
It has always been the goal of the government to increase and enhance revenue collection and 
to put a stop to tax fraud and corruption. However, there seems to be an absence of a simple 
yet effective manner of easily verifying and/or authenticating all receipts, invoiees, permits, 
licenses, clearances and official papers issued by all government agencies and 
instrumentalities. Government Owned and Controlled Corporations (GOCCs) and Local 
Government Units (LGUs) as well as private businesses, that will ensure ftill aecounting and 
proper documentation of all business and commercial transactions in the country.
In this regard, there is a need to establish and implement a simple yet fool-proof way of 
authentieating and verifying the correctness of transactions even by a mere naked eye
examination to substantially enhance and improve government revenue without increasing 
taxes. 
6
This bill proposes the use of specialized or watennarked seeurity paper on which all receipts, 
invoices, permits, licenses, clearances and all other official papers and documents issued by 
both the government as well as private entities shall be printed. Consequently, the adoption of 
such legislation will greatly enhance and strengthen tax monitoring and collection if the use 
of secunty watermarked paper for all receipts and other documents will be made a mandatory 
requirement for all commercial and business transactions.
It should be noted that he National Tax Research Center (NTRC) of the Department of 
Finance (DOF), the govemmenfs lead agency when it comes to taxation, has expressed its 
support and full backing for the proposal to use water-marked paper in all receipts and similar 
documents to be issued by state agencies, local government units and even private and 
commercial establishments. The NTRC said this move would enhance and strengthen the tax 
monitoring and collection functions of the government. To quote the NTRC,
It is also expected that the use of watermarked paper in all commercial and 
business transactions could minimize if not completely eliminate the use of 
falsified receipts and other documents. ”
<S/fire df ftje ^ ^ n c f.irjj
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s. No. 587
•16 
JUL19 
P5:17
H
r
' ■
’’V:
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillaiies IV
AN ACT
ESTABLISHING ONE-STOP ACTION CENTER FOR PURPOSES OF LAND 
REGISTRATION IN EVERY LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT THROUGHOUT THE 
COUNTRY AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Land ownership and its good management promote productivity and ensure the country's 
development. With this, the Land Registration Authority (LRA), tasked to see to it that the 
laws on land registration are effectively-implemented, has been created. The LRA is 
mandated to provide a secure, stable and trustworthy record of land ownership and recorded 
interests therein in order to promote social and economic well-being and contribute to 
national development.
However, the present state of affairs in registration of land is caught up in bureaucratic and 
routine tediousness. More often than not, individuals desiring to have their land registered 
have to go through the circuitous and expensive process of complying with each requirement 
usually demanded by several government agencies.
Intending to address this pressing problem that greatly affects high-quality land management, 
this bill will establish a one-stop action center in every legislative district of the country to 
facilitate the registration of land ownership. The establishment of a one stop shop for 
purposes of registration of land titles and the deeds affecting such titles, without necessarily 
undermining the objectives of the Land Registration Act, can streamline and simplify existing 
systems. Moreover, since the process of registration is made in the province where the land is 
located, any alien or encumbrance on the land may be readily known.
In view of the foregoing, approval of this bill is strongly recommended.
ANTONI
NNY’\F. TRIIILA
Senator
ES IV
SEVENTENTH CONGRESS Oj 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPI 
First Regular Session
F THE 
)
NES 
)
)
S E N A T E
S. B. No. 
20
JUN 3 0 ? 0 ir r ,|
il i l  
DA Tl:. - 
r 
' ,J5
B ILL S  
I
Introduced b) SENATOR GREGORIO B. HONASAN II
AN ACT TO EXEMPT 
POSSESSI
PASSENGERS FROM LIABILITY FOR ILLEGAL 
ON OF CHECKED-IN AMMUNITION
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Ammunition poses an immediate 
Where the unloaded ammunition 
senger loses access to it and as s 
there is a high probability of it^ 
machine.
risk when the possessor has the ability to load it into a firearm, 
is included in the checked-in belongings of a passenger, the pas- 
ijich, it no longer poses an immediate threat to others. Furthermore, 
discovery by airport authorities once it goes through the x-ray
In the light of reported incidents 
there is a need to fine tune the ba 
harm while on board and the rig
of ammunition being planted in the belongings of passengers, 
ancing of interests of the right of aircraft passengers from physical 
it of passengers from planting of evidence while in the tenninal.
Under this measure, where amn 
the passenger shall no longer be
nunition is discovered in the checked-in belongings of a passenger, 
held liable for illegal possession of ammunition.
Airport procedures will be chan 
which of his/her belongings wil 
gage. After check-in, his/her be 
machine for the checked-in bagg
;ed. Once a passenger arrives at the airport, he/she will be asked 
be checked-in and which he/she will retain as hand-carried bag- 
ongings will be scanned by at least two (2) x-ray machines, one 
;age and another machine for the hand-carried belongings.
Under this arrangement, the risk 
ished or totally eradicated. If a pi 
in all his/her belongings. Doing 
discovered therein.
of being victimized by planting of ammunition is greatly dimin- 
ssenger wants to be totally secured, he/she may choose to check- 
so will exempt him/her from any liability in case ammunition is
Lastly, may we take this oppoixunity to remind would-be planters of ammunition that they are
evidence of guilt is strong.
Wherefore, I earnestly seek the immediate enactment of this proposed measure.
GREGORIO B. HONASAN II
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E
S.B. NO. 
390
i' 
I  l U .  k .
•16 JUL 18 P6 ^4
BY:
In tro d u ced  by SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA
AN ACT DECLARING FILIPINO SIGN LANGUAGE AS THE NATIONAL SIGN 
LANGUAGE OF THE FILIPINO DEAF AND THE OFFICIAL LANGUAGE OF 
GOVERNMENT IN ALL TRANSACTIONS INVOLVING THE DEAF, AND 
MANDATING 
ITS 
USE 
IN 
SCHOOLS, 
BROADCAST 
MEDIA, 
AND 
WORKPLACES
Explanatory Note
The Filipino Sign Language (FSL) is the natural sign language indigenous to the 
Filipino Deaf com m unity who developed the language with its own gram m ar 
and linguistic structure. The Filipino Deaf acquire conversational skills easily 
as they interact with the other deaf in the comm unity. According to Dr. Marie 
Bustos, a sign language interpreter and special education professor at the 
University of the Philippines -  Diliman, 70% of the Filipino Deaf Community 
(2015), mostly from u rb an  areas, uses FSL and some of the schools have used 
the Sign in Exact English (SEE) or Sign Supported Speech, which are artificial 
sign system s based on oral and w ritten English.
This law seeks to declare the Filipino Sign Language as the national sign 
language of the Filipino Deaf and the official language of the Philippine 
government in all transactions with the D eaf It recognizes th at the FSL is the 
backbone of the Philippine deaf culture, thus, m andating its use in following:
a. Public and private schools and institutions;
b. Public and private workplaces including courts, quasi-judicial agencies, 
and other tribunals;
c. Public health system  and other public transactions, services and 
facilities
d. B roadcast m edia which would require interpreter insets in news and 
public affairs program s.
In view of the foregoing, the approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
LOREN LEGARDA
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES )
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E
S.B. No. 396
(O H x r  .if «h« ^ r f t r t a r v j
*16 JIIU8 P6 -08
i(i,. .-’AVIA) 15Y:_
In tro d u ced  by SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA
AN ACT GRANTING PHILIPPINE CITIZENSHIP TO JUVENAL SANSO
Explanatory Note
This bill seeks to grant Philippine Citizenship to m aster painter and artist, 
Juvenal Sanso.
Born in Spain, Juvenal Sanso h as spent a significant period of his life in the 
Philippines where his accom plishm ents in the field of visual arts are lauded. 
In 2006, he was awarded The Presidential Medal of Merit by President Gloria 
M acapagal Arroyo. It is the m ost prestigious award given by the government 
to an artist for his invaluable contribution to Philippine visual arts.
In 1989, he did six sim ultaneous exhibits in Manila at the M etropolitan 
M useum, Lopez M useum , Ayala M useum , Center C ultural de Espaha, 
Alliance Frangaise, and the Finale Art File. He consequently won first prize 
in the watercolor and oil category of Art Association of the Philippines 
competition in the years 1950 and 1951, respectively.
Juvenal Sanso resides in the Philippines through his own choice. A 
m useum , Fundacion Sanso, was established in San Ju a n  City through his 
guidance and support.
For these considerations, the passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
LOREN LEGARDA
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E  
S.B.No. 
113
dateJUN
BILLS
INDEX
Introduced by Senator Aquilino "Koko" Pimentel III
AN ACT
ESTABLISHING THE NATIONAL COMMITTEE FOR THE 
PREVENTION OF TORTURE (NCPT), THE NATIONAL 
PREVENTIVE MECHANISM AGAINST TORTURE AND 
OTHER CRUEL, INHUMAN, OR DEGRADING TREATMENT 
OR PUNISHMENT IN THE PHILIPPINES, PROVIDING A 
FRAMEWORK FOR IMPLEMENTING OBLIGATIONS UNDER 
THE OPTIONAL PROTOCOL TO THE UNITED NATIONS 
CONVENTION AGAINT TORTURE AND OTHER CRUEL, 
INHUMAN, OR DEGRADING TREATMENT OR PUNISHMENT
(OPCAT), AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR
EXPLANATORY NOTE
United Nations treaty bodies, such as the United Nations 
Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading 
Treatment or Punishment (UNCAT)1, oblige each State to take operative 
and proactive measures to prevent torture and other cruel, inhuman, or 
degrading punishment or treatment of persons deprived of liberty.
The Optional Protocol to the UN Convention Against Torture 
(OPCAT)2, introducing a system of regular visits to places of detention 
by international and domestic experts, was established as an additional 
preventive instrument to ensure that State actors adhere to their
1 Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, 
adopted by Resolution 39/46 of the UN General Assembly on December 10, 1984, entry into 
force June 26,1987.
2 Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inliuman or Degrading 
Treatment or Punishment, adopted by the UN General Assembly on December 18, 2002, UN 
Doc. A/RES/57/199, entry into force June 22, 2006.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
Srn.'iir
u f  t l j i ' . ^ r r r r f a t y
'16 JUL 18 P6 -05
S E N A T E  
S. B. No.
Ur 
iilVElJt BY:
In tro d u ced  by SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA
AN 
ACT 
ENSURING 
EQUALITY 
BETWEEN 
SPOUSES 
IN 
THE 
EXERCISE OF PARENTAL AUTHORITY OVER THE PERSON AND 
LEGAL 
GUARDIANSHIP 
OVER 
THE 
PROPERTY 
OF 
COMMON 
CHILDREN, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE ARTICLES 211 AND 225 
OF THE FAMILY CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES
Explanatory Note
This m easure aim s to remove the preferential treatm ent for the father’s 
decision in case of disagreem ent with the m other in the exercise of 
parental authority over the person and legal guardianship over the 
property of their common child to ensure equality before the law between 
husband and wife.
At present, Articles 211 and 225 of the Family Code of the Philippines 
states th at the father’s decision shall prevail in the exercise of parental 
authority over the person and legal guardianship over the property of the 
common children.
Given the im portance of this m easure, passage of this is immediately 
requested.
LORENLEGARDA
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S. B. No.
214
ilO TIME:
INTRODUCED BY SENATOR ANA THERESIA “RISA” HONTIVEROS BARAQUEL
An Act Creating the Community Health Worker Education and Training 
Program, Increasing Compensation and Other Benefits for Barangay Health 
Workers (BHWs), Appropriating Funds Therefor and for other purposes
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Article XIII, Section 11 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution lays down the national health 
policy in this wise: "The State shall adopt an integrated and comprehensive approach to 
health development which shall endeavor to make essential goods, health and other social 
services available to all the people at an affordable cost."
Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) play a critical part of this health and human development 
agenda, providing front-line health services at the community level and acting as health 
educators, community organizers and primary care providers within their local villages. 
Given the dearth of doctors and nurses in rural areas, BHWs are often the first line of 
defense against illnesses, the information source for maternal and neonatal care as well as 
family planning, and also the first responders during periods of calamity.
According to latest available data, there are 219,433 active BHWs in the country spread out 
across 42,028 barangays. While some barangays have a sufficient number of BHWs, the 
barangays in far-flung rural areas have only one or two volunteers -  toiling every day to 
provide for the health needs of the barangay residents. Yet, these BHWs are considered only 
volunteers, and the law does not prescribe a fixed allowance for them. Nor do they enjoy 
security of tenure or retirement benefits.
This Act seeks to correct that not only by prescribing a fixed monthly compensation for 
BHWs, but also by introducing a Community Health Worker Education and Training 
Program that will provide training and development programs for BHWs to develop their 
skills and acquire knowledge. The aim of this Act is two-fold: to hone and develop deserving 
BHWs into skilled medical professionals, and second, to ensure a continuous supply of 
grassroots public health workers to respond to the health needs of their communities.
The immediate passage of this measure is earnestly sought.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES )
FIRST REGULAR SESSION 
)
SENATE 9
S. B. NO.
/^fRECEIVED^^
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0 U 0 1 6 ...
V l> TIME: 
/ 
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BY:
BILLS & (HDEX
INTRODUCED BY SENATOR JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO
AN ACT REQUIRING MANDATORY INSTALLATION OF CLOSED CIRCUIT 
TELEVISION (CCTV) CAMERAS ON ROADS INCLUDED IN ROUTES OF 
PUBLIC UTILITY VEHICLES AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
CCTV or Closed Circuit Television refers to a visible or covert video 
system intended for only a limited number or viewers. In Closed Circuit TV 
(CCTV), the picture is viewed or recorded, but not broadcast. It was initially 
developed as a means of security for banks and casinos; however, today it 
has been developed to the point where it is simple and expensive enough to 
be used with Home Security Systems, and for everyday surveillance.1
From its inception up to the present time, CCTV has been found 
useful especially in assisting the law enforcement authority in their 
investigations and apprehending criminals. Furthermore, investigation of 
road mishaps and improved forecasting of traffic situations have been 
effectively managed and monitored through the use of CCTV. In light of this, 
the Department of Interior and Local Government spearheaded the Project 
Safe Kam last May 2015 to advance the anti-crime initiative of the Philippine 
National Police’s Oplan Lambat-Sibat. Said project utilizes CCTV cameras to 
facilitate the arrest of criminals and prevent the occurrence of crimes.
In addition to that, video recordings in CCTV Cameras may be used as 
competent evidence in road accidents and/or cases involving violation of 
traffic laws and be of great importance in determining who's at fault in such 
kind of mishaps. In the case of Don Mariano Transit whose bus plunged 
from the Skyway in Paranaque City killing nineteen people on December 16, 
2013, one of the evidence presented during the LTFRB's hearing were the 
Skyway's CCTV footage of the accident. And in connection with this, the 
Metro Manila Development Authority implemented the “no-contact 
apprehension policy” which employs CCTV, digital cameras, and other
What is CCTV? Retrieved, February 10,2014 from http://whatiscctv.com.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
' i f f i r i  of flje(Jll< i,fia ry
*16 
JUL20 
P4 2 6
S.B. No.senat§95
Kf'('i;rv;.!) nv;
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT AMENDING SECTION 13(B) OF COMMONWEALTH ACT NO. 146, AS AMENDED AND
FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Public utilities or public services are business activities generally characterized as 
natural monopolies with large sunk costs. They are allowed to operate as regulated 
monopolies since they provide services that are indispensable or necessary to everyday life.
The Public Service Act (Commonweaith Act No. 146) remains the principal law that 
enumerates business activities classified as public utilities or public services. It was enacted 
in 1936 based on even older statutes in the United States and in the Philippines. Since then, 
vast advances have taken place in technology and modes of delivery of services. Capital and 
other requirements and ways of doing business, among others, have drastically changed as 
well. These require a review of the Public Service Act and the introduction of greater 
market competition with a view to attaining more effective and efficient services to the 
public, reducing socio-economic inequities and alleviating poverty.
This bill is introduced in order to update the coverage of public utilities or public 
services in the Public Service Act, reserving it to business activities exhibiting the 
simultaneous characteristics of natural monopoly and vital public necessity, and to ensure 
that every Filipino has access to the best quality, value-for-money essential services that 
effective competition can provide.
In view of the foregoing, the approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
Senator Pal
Benigno B
IAa
A. Aquino IV
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E
S.B. NO. 
34
t im e
BILLS
In tro d u ced  by SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA
AN ACT INSTITUTING A NATIONAL LAND USE POLICY, PROVIDING THE 
IMPLEMENTING MECHANISMS THEREFOR, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
Explanatory Note
This bill seeks to institutionalize a national land use policy to ensure a 
rational, holistic, and ju s t allocation, utilization, m anagem ent and development 
of the country’s land resources. According to the United Nations Conference on 
Hum an Settlem ents (1976), land, because of its unique nature and the crucial 
role it plays in hum an settlem ents, cannot be treated as an ordinary asset, 
controlled by individuals and subject to the pressures and inefficiencies of the 
m arket. Private land ownership is also a principal instr*ument of accum ulation 
and concentration of wealth and therefore contributes to social injustice; if 
unchecked, 
it 
m ay 
become 
a 
m ajor 
obstacle 
in 
the 
planning 
and 
im plem entation of development schem es. Social justice, urban renewal and 
development, the provision of decent dwellings and healthy conditions for the 
people can only be achieved if land is used in the interests of society as a 
whole.
In the Philippines, there are various laws passed to address the need for sound 
land use. The Forestry Reform Code of 1975, the Com prehensive Agrarian 
Reform Law (1988), Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act of 1997, and the Agriculture 
and Fisheries M odernization Act of 1997 have all been im plem ented through 
the years to ensure th at the 30,001,563 hectares (2004) total land area of the 
country is utilized properly. However, due to the presence of different 
stakeholders in the use of land and the lack of a national land use policy 
framework, the use of land in our country rem ains chaotic and breeds 
environm ental degradation.
The bill seeks to address those concerns by m andating the form ulation of a 
National Framework for Physical Planning (NFPP) which shall serve as the 
general long-term framework for spatial development directions of the entire 
country and shall provide analytical param eters for planned allocation, use and 
m anagem ent of the country s land and other physical resources. A centralized 
body called the Land Use Policy Council composed of various government 
agencies involved in land use shall be created to form ulate, periodically update, 
and irnplement the said plan and to coordinate with, assist, and m onitor the 
compliance of local governm ent units (LGUs) in planning, developing, and 
implementing their respective comprehensive land use plan under this bill.
Under this proposed m easure, land is classified according to use:
1.) Protection land use which shall refer to the use of land primarily for rehabilitation, 
conservation, and protection purpose, and the pro m o tio n  of the country’s ecological
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
S.B, No.
SENATE
994
• ' j f :
l y h 1 '
 
p f  J h ! * . / ’
- - !  I ! < ; " } ;
’16 AUG-8 PI :.38
In tro d u ced  by SEN. WIN GATCHALIAN
AN ACT
ESTABLISHING THE NATIONAL TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT AND MANAGEMENT 
CENTER, DEFINING ITS POWERS, FUNCTIONS AND DUTIES, AND 
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This bill seeks to establish the National Traffic Enforcem ent and M anagem ent 
Center. Efficient traffic enforcem ent is an essential elem ent of every road safety 
policy; hence, the importarnce of a com petent traffic enforcem ent corps cannot be 
underestim ated. Traffic enforcers play a vital role in m aintaining public order and 
safety in our roads. A properly trained traffic enforcer coupled with the best practices 
in the enforcem ent of traffic laws will ensure a safer road for the public particularly 
to m otorists and pedestriajtis.
This m easure intends to establish a National Traffic Enforcem ent and 
M anagement Center which shall have the m andate to build capacity of our traffic 
enforcers by providing them  formal trainings and instruction in all the areas of traffic 
enforcem ent and m anagem ent including enforcem en1;, road safety, accident 
investigation, driver training, post-accident m anagem ent, and understanding 
violations. The National Traffic Enforcem ent and M anagem ent Center shall also be 
responsible in educating the public about the proper observance of our traffic and 
road laws and in scientifically researching the causes and consequences of road
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
DATEjJUN
§
S E N A T E  
S. B. No. 
8 9
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT
LOWERING THE RETIREMENT AGE OF EMPLOYEES OF THE DEPARTMENT 
OF EDUCATION FROM 65 YEARS OLD TO 60 YEARS OLD
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This bill seeks to lower the compulsory retirement age of personnel of the 
Department of Education (DepEd), including public school teachers, from 65 years old 
to 60 years old.
The present system at the DepEd needs skills updating and professional 
advancement of their personnel in order that services rendered at the department will 
be restructured and modernized yet perpetual. This measure shall also open the doors 
of opportunities to young teachers and non-teaching aspirants for the jobs at the 
Education Department.
If enacted into law, this proposed legislation will benefit hundreds and 
thousands of retirable DepEd personnel, both teaching and non-teaching, who would 
want to spend the prime of their lives doing other occupations other than their usual 
functions in the government.
In view thereof, approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
I i
-v s j/ f§i(trt of thp,><'i i i,! ;'li
‘16 ,1UL 20 P3 20
S.B. No
SENATE671
K i  I I
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT GRANTING PUBLIC SCHOOL STUDENTS FREE ADMISSION TO ALL PUBLIC 
MUSEUMS AND NATIONAL HISTORICAL SHRINES AND LANDMARKS
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The recent announcement by National Museum of the Philippines that admission 
will now be permanently free is a welcome change to all Filipinos. In particular, this benefits 
teachers and parents of public school students who are eager to visit but were discouraged 
due to the admission fee that many families cannot afford.
The numerous public museums, national historical shrines and landmarks in the 
Philippines serve as a rich place to learn about our history, our cultural heritage and our 
artistic talent as a nation. However, these places are often unknown to or inaccessible to 
public school students who cannot afford the costs of field trips.
In order to enrich the learning of all Filipinos, this bill seeks to remove admission fees 
to all public museums, national historical shrines and landmarks, for students enrolled in 
public schools. In doing so, experiential learning through field trips and cultural immersions 
will become more accessible to students and teachers who wish to use these venues to 
share valuable knowledge about our history.
Through this bill, the study of culture, art and history will no longer be a privileged 
pursuit, but something that is accessible to all students who will benefit from a greater 
appreciation of our country's heritage.
In view of the foregoing, the passing of this bill is earnestly sought.
Senator Paolo Benigno "Batjn" A. Aquino IV
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES ) 
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S. No. 534
•V-
•" 
' 
i;
r 16 
!!!l 
] 1‘
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny’’ Trillanes IV
AN ACT
REQUIRING 
THE 
FULL 
DISCLOSURE 
OF 
ALL 
ENTITIES 
AND 
ORGANIZATIONS RECEIVING GOVERNMENT FUNDS THRU A SEARCHABLE 
DATABASE WEBSITE
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Every April of each year, millions of Filipinos line up to fill out their tax returns and send a 
portion of their hard-earned money for the government to spend. These taxpayers, however, 
do not have any idea where their money went after paying their appropriate taxes. With news 
and stories involving millions of pesos being lost by the government to graft and corruption, 
taxpayers have the right to know how their money is being spent and if they are getting the 
right value for it.
Further, Article 2, Sections 27 and 28 of the Constitution provides:
SEC 27. The State shall maintain honesty and integrity in the public 
service and take positive and effective measures against graft and 
corruption.
SEC 28. Subject to reasonable conditions prescribed by law, the State 
adopts and implements a policy of full public disclosure of all its 
transactions involving public interest.
Our people need a new tool to hold the government accountable for spending decisions. Thus, 
this bill aims to increase accountability and reduce incentives for wasteful spending by 
providing the public with infonnation about how their taxes are spent thru a searchable 
website which would foster a culture of openness, transparency, and accountability 
throughout the whole bureaucracy.
In view of the foregoing, the immediate approval of this measure is earnestly sought.
ANTON
F. t J
l lJ n ES IV
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
'
( $ Ki r e  of  t l i f ^ ' 1
’16 JUL 19 P6:15
SENATE
s.No. 623
RKf r.f^
MY:
Introduced by Sen. Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
TO AMEND CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF REPUBLIC ACT NUMBER 7431, 
OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE "RADIOLOGIC TECHNOLOGY ACT OF 1992", 
AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This bill seeks to amend Republic Act No. 7431, otherwise known as the "Radiologic 
Technology Act of 1992", to keep it abreast with the developments in the practice of 
radiologic technology. More than twenty years ago, RA 7431 was enacted in order to regulate 
the practice of radiologic technology in the Philippines. Through this law, the State intends to 
protect the public from hazards posed by radiation, as well as to ensure proper diagnosis, 
treatment, and research through the application of machines and/or equipment that use 
radiation.
In order to uphold such policy, RA 7431 created the Board of Radiologic Technology 
composed of three (3) radiologic technologists, one (1) radiologist, and one (1) medical 
physicist. However, including a radiologist and a medical physicist in the board defeats the 
intent of the law. Under the law, a radiologist is a licensed physician who specializes in the 
diagnosis or treatment of diseases with the use of radiation, while a medical physicist 
specializes in the application of the principles and techniques of physics in medicine. These 
professions, however, are entirely different from radiologic technology-related professions. 
While the latter is an auxiliary branch of radiology which deals with the application of radio 
frequency rays in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases, this set up then does not call for 
representation of radiologists and medical physicists in the Board.
This proposed measure seeks to address this apparent oversight in the law by excluding the 
radiologist and medical physicist from the Board of Radiologic Technology.
A reciprocity provision is also included in this measure. This will in effect support the easier 
movement of Filipino professionals within the ASEAN Community and beyond under the 
various Mutual Recognition Agreements being negotiated among state parties thereto. The 
bill, likewise, changes the scope of board of board examinations for radiologic and x-ray 
technologists to include more practical subjects, with the corresponding weights of the 
subjects also modified.
Finally, the bill proposes to include provisions allowing the Professional Regulatory 
Commission and the Professional B6ard for Radiologic Technology to introduce regulations 
for the integration of the x-ray and radiologic technology professions and the implementation 
of a program for Continuing Professional Development (CPD) to ensure the further
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
V. '!■*' 
I fI f e 0 f 11) f. ,!r F n  H j '
'16 
J J L 2 1  
A I M 9
S. B. No.
S E N A T E
771
Hi ■' 
;• 
n y :
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT
AMENDING SECTION 2 OF ACT NO. 4103, AS AMENDED, OTHERWISE 
KNOWN AS THE INDETERMINATE SENTENCE LAW
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This bill seeks to amend Act No. 4103, also known as the Indeterminate Sentence 
Law, in order to include the criminal offenses against minors in the enumeration of 
certain crimes to which the provisions of the Act do not apply.
According to the Supreme Court, the positivist theory of criminal law states that 
the basis for criminal liability is the sum total of the social and economic phenomena to 
which the offense is expressed. The State is concerned not only in the imperative 
necessity of protecting the social organization against the criminal acts of destructive 
individuals but also in redeeming the individual for economic usefulness and other 
social ends (People v. Ducosin, 59 Phil. 109 [1933]). The adoption of this theory is 
exemplified in the Indeterminate Sentence law.
However, the application of this law is limited by excluding persons convicted of 
certain crimes or offenses due to its heinous nature, severity and gravity of the offense. 
The mere nature and seriousness of offenses (especially sexual offenses) against a minor 
justifies its inclusion in the enumeration.
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO