bettergovph/raw-philippine-data huggingface dataset:
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
R E U  
-
SENATE
S.B. NO. 
P 1 .S 0
19 JftNl5 P620
Introduced by Senator Maria Lourdes Nancy S. Binay
AN ACT
INTEGRATING PALLIATIVE AND HOSPICE CARE INTO THE PHILIPPINE 
HEALTH CARE SYSTEM
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Article II, Section 15 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution provides:
"The State shall protect and promote the right to health of the people 
and instill health consciousness among them."
According to the World Health Organization, palliative and hospice care is an 
approach that improves the quality of life of patients and their families facing the 
problem associated with life-threatening illness, through the prevention and reiief 
of suffering by means of eariy identification and impeccable assessment and 
treatment of pain and other probiems, physical, psychosocial and spiritual.
The proposed bill seeks to integrate palliative and hospice care into the structure 
and financing of the Philippine Health Care system by strengthening and 
expanding human resources, encouraging the development of home-based 
palliative and hospice care programs, and directing PhilHealth to increase its 
benefit package to inciude inpatient paiiiative services, outpatient hospice care 
and home-based palliative care.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S.B. NO. 
2051
tn.ji
'18 OCT-3 P4 -13
Introduced by Senator Maria Lourdes Nancy S. Binay 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- __________
AN ACT
PROMOTING AND SUPPORTING BREASTFEEDING AS AN ESSENTIAL 
COMPONENT OF RESPONSIBLE PARENTHOOD
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Article II, Section 15 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution provides:
"The State shall protect and promote the right to health of the people 
and instill health consciousness among them."
Article XV, Section 1 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution provides:
"The State recognizes the Filipino family as the foundation of the 
nation. Accordingly, it shall strengthen its solidarity and actively 
promote its total development."
Early and exclusive breastfeeding of infants has the greatest potential impact on 
child survival. According to UNICEF breastfed children have six times greater 
chances of survival in the early months than non-breastfed children.
Breast milk provides all the nutrients, vitamins and minerals an infant needs. It 
also carries antibodies from the mother that help fight several diseases like acute 
respiratory infection and diarrhea which are two major fatal illnesses among 
infants.
IS'
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
?1t I t '  
'
S. No
S E N A T E
2.140 
'AN 14 
P1:02
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam" A. Aquino IV
AN ACT PROVIDING COMPENSATION TO SANGGUNIANG KABATAAN 
OFFCIALS FURTHER AMENDING REPUBLIC ACT 10742, ENTITLED 
"SANGGUNIANG KABATAAN REFORM ACT OF 2015"
EXPLANATORY NOTE
In January 2016, we celebrated the passage of Republic Act No. 10742, or 
the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Reform Act, which seeks to implement various 
reforms in the barangay youth arm towards building and inspiring a new and better 
generation of public servants.
While encouraging the spirit of volunteerism in the SK was one of the main 
principles behind our pushing for the SK Reform law back in 2015, we also recognize 
the need to compensate SK officials for the work that they do and the time and 
resources that they give, as we expect them to deliver the best leadership and 
service to their youth constituents and community. Instituting the compensation for 
SK Officials also bolsters the other objective of the SK Reform bill -  of taking back 
the SK from the clutches of partisan politics. Providing regular compensation for SK 
Officials through the law helps ensure that our youth leaders don't need to depend 
on nor feel indebted to local government officials and politicians for resources and 
support.
Thus, the proposed bill seeks to expand the benefits allotted to members and 
officials of the Sangguniang Kabataan under the SK Reform Act. First, the secretary 
and treasurer of the Sangguniang Kabataan shall be given just compensation for
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
-•'I. . I t i J  .
0 u '.c f o{ U ) k f . ’fM i'ta rp
'19 
1)AN 14 
P 5 « 0
S E N A T E
Rb.
S.B.No. 2143
(^-—
Introduced by Senator Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III
AN ACT
INTEGRATING COMPUTER SCIENCE IN THE CURRICULUM 
OF THE ENHANCED BASIC EDUCATION (K-12) PROGRAM, 
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR,
AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
To thrive in this global and high-tech marketplace of the 21st 
century, one must be able to create technology. Lamentably, our current 
enhanced basic education program is inadequate to meet the needs of the 
times. Our ranking in the 2017-2018 Global Competitiveness Index 
where our overall ranking is 56 out of 137 countries, and only 61 in the 
“Innovation and sophistication factors” subindex, reflects this reality.
This bill seeks to integrate computer science in all levels of the 
enhanced basic education curriculum. By introducing computer science 
fundamentals to our students, as early as possible and in an age- 
appropriate manner, we are effectively equipping them with the proper 
tools needed to make them capable digital age citizens and also 
preparing them for global competitiveness.
The speedy passage of this bill is therefore earnestly requested.
“KOKO
PIME
AQUILlN
TEL III
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
Third Regular Session
S E N A T E
COMMITTEE REPORT NO.
i7 2
•• 
la. .
iCu'cr c ( ■t n r . i *
*19 
JAN 23 P6 25
REC..,
Submitted by the Committees on Labor, Employment and Human Resources 
Development: Social Justice, Welfare and Rural Development; Ways and Means;
and Finance o n ___JAN 2 3 2019_
Re: Senate Bill No.
2175
Recommending its approval in substitution of Senate Bill Nos. 309, 1135 and 1376. 
Sponsor: Senator Joel Villanueva
MR. PRESIDENT:
The 
Committees 
on 
Labor, 
Employment 
and 
Human 
Resources 
Development; Social Justice, Welfare and Rural Development; Ways and Means; 
and Finance to which were referred Senate Bill No. 309, introduced by Senator 
Sonny Angara, entitled:
"AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR THE MAGNA CARTA OF WORKERS IN INFORMAL ECONOMY, 
INSTITUTIONALIZING MECHANISMS FOR IMPLEMENTATION THEREOF AND
FOR OTHER PURPOSES”
Senate Bill No. 1135, introduced by Senators Grace Poe and Joel Villanueva, 
entitled:
“AN ACT
AN ACT PROVIDING FOR A MAGNA CARTA OF WORKERS, ENTERPRISES 
AND ORGANIZATIONS IN THE INFORMAL ECONOMY, INSTITUTIONALIZING 
MECHANISMS FOR IMPLEMENTATION THEREOF AND FOR OTHER
PURPOSES”
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES
Third Regular Session
SENATE
S.B. NO. 2077
t 111 i i 1.1,-;
' ^Q 
DCT 18 
A10 5 1
Introduced by Senator Maria Lourdes Nancy S. Binay
AN ACT
ESTABLISHING A COMPREHENSIVE SUBSTANCE ABUSE EDUCATIONAL 
PROGRAM IN EVERY SCHOOL
(t
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Article II, Section 13 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution provides:
"The State recognizes the vital role of the youth in nation-building 
and shall promote and protect their physical, moral, spiritual, 
intellectual, and social well-being. It shall inculcate in the youth 
patriotism and nationalism, and encourage their involvement in 
public and civic affairs."
For the purpose of ensuring the future of our youth's intellectual, physical and 
social well-being there is a need to establish a comprehensive program for the 
prevention, intervention, evaluation, and treatment for student alcohol, tobacco 
and drug use.
The proposed bill seeks to create and establish a national alcohol, tobacco and 
drug abuse program that will be implemented in all high schools, colleges, and 
universities.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
T h ird  R egular Session 
)
^  
v:-.
' S  i
i
f
.
-
 • 
! ~ f
*19 
IdN 28 
P3-14
S. B. No.
SENATE
2179
H ' -
INTRODUCED BY SENATOR JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO
AN ACT
INCREASING THE BED CAPACITY OF JOSE B. LINGAD MEMORIAL 
GENERAL HOSPITAL IN SAN FERNANDO, PAMPANGA FROM FIVE 
HUNDRED (500) TO ONE THOUSAND (1000), UPGRADING ITS SERVICES 
AND FACILITIES AND PROFESSIONAL HEALTH CARE, AUTHORIZING THE 
INCREASE OF ITS MEDICAL PERSONNEL AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS
THEREFOR
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This bill seeks to  increase the authorized bed capacity o f the Jose B. Lingad 
Memorial General Hospital (JBLMGH) in San Fernando City, Pampanga from  Five 
Hundred (500) to One Thousand (1000).
This bill is in consonance w ith the constitutional mandate to  prom ote and 
protect the right o f the people to health and instil health consciousness among them. 
Further, it is the policy o f the State to secure the well-being o f the people by providing 
them  efficient health services.
The JBLMGH started in 1921 and was form erly known as Pampanga Provincial 
Hospital. I t  has been in existence for almost 90 years and has achieved great 
accomplishments not only in its services but also in its facilities and infrastructure. The 
JBLGMH is com m itted in improving the health o f the people not only in Pampanga but 
in nearby provinces. To further enhance its capacity o f prom oting public health and to 
cater medical patients, there is a need to  increase its bed capacity from  Five Hundred 
(500) to  One Thousand (1000).
In view o f the foregoing, the im mediate enactm ent of this measure is earnestly
sought.
SENATOR JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s.No. 2084
•18 
NDV-7 
PI :45
IVIwi.
Introduced by SENATOR LEILA M. DE LIMA
AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR MEDICAL PAROLE TO QUALIFIED PRISONERS AND 
SETTING RULES ON THE GRANT THEREOF
EXPIANATORY NOTE
Medical Parole or compassionate parole is a parole granted on humanitarian or 
medical grounds. It refers to the conditional release of prisoner from a correctional 
institution on the grounds that he is suffering from a terminal illness or an incapacity 
that renders him incapable of managing his own affairs.
Many studies have recommended the broader use of medical parole due to 
aging prison population, overcrowding, and rising deaths in custody, among others. 
The institutionalization of the medical parole not only provides for a humane 
treatment of prisoners who are suffering from terminal illness or permanent 
incapacity, it also rationalizes the correctional practice by allowing the conditional 
release of prisoners who are no longer capable of serving their sentences within the 
correctional facilities due to their conditions.
This bill is meant to allow prisoners to serve out their sentence under the care 
of their families or seek better medical care outside the correctional facilities.
This proposed bill clarifies the mandate of Board of Pardons and Parole (BPP) 
to grant medical parole to prisoners who are suffering from terminal illness or 
permanent incapacity as provided in Act No. 4103, as amended, and standardizes the 
guidelines and necessary requirements for expeditious grant of medical parole.
The grant of medical parole presupposes that the conditional release of a 
prisoner will not constitute a threat to the safety of society. The BPP shall likewise
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
‘SL.! •' I'i lil.
.• :rr?
S E N A T E
S. B. No. 2 0 0 5
•18
SEP 12 P7:05
Introduced by Senator SONNY ANGARA
r.L...
AN ACT
OFFICIALLY 
CREATING 
THE 
M UNICIPALITY 
OF
PANDAG
IN  
THE
PROVINCE OF MAGUINDANAO
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Municipality of Pandag in the Province of Maguindanao was originally 
created on November 27, 2006 through Muslim Mindanao Autonomy Act (MMAA) No. 
203 of the Regional Legislative Assembly of the Autonomous Region for Muslim 
Mindanao (ARMM) pursuant to the provisions under the MMAA No. 25, otherwise 
known as the Local Government Code of the ARMM.
For eighteen (18) years of existence, the Municipality of Pandag—composed 
of eight (8) barangays, namely: Kabuling, Kayaga, Kayupo, Lepak, Lower D'lag, 
Malangit, Pandag and Upper D'lag—did not receive Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) 
share from the Department of Budget and Management. It was only entitled to 
financial aid from the ARMM.
This bill seeks to officially recognize the Municipality of Pandag in the Province 
of Maguindanao, by virtue of law, to qualify them to receive IRA share. This shall 
enable them to effectively and efficiently deliver basic services, and to formulate 
their own development programs and goals towards the promotion of public health, 
safety, environmental, social and general welfare.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
Third Regular Session
SENATE 
S. No.2 1 1 2 2
: ■■ 
;T. 
.
of tOi* fcv :r.'Jnrj>
*18 
SEP 20 
A 9:43
Introduced by Senator Loren Legarda 
RECj
AN ACT CREATING THE PHILIPPINE COMMISSION ON CHILDREN, 
DEFINING ITS POWERS, FUNCTIONS, AND RESPONSIBILITIES, AND 
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Republic of the Philippines, through the Council for the Welfare of Children 
(CWC), has been steadfast in its commitment to promote and protect the rights of 
children. This obligation is enshrined in the 1987 Constitution, the Presidential 
Decree No. 603 or the Child and Youth Welfare Code, and the United Nations 
Convention on the Rights of the Child (UN CRC).
Over the years, emerging issues have increased the vulnerability of children to all 
forms of harm, abuse, exploitation, and violence. Several policies, programs, and 
mechanisms have been formulated and implemented to address this. However, an 
enhanced integrated approach must be adopted to safeguard the welfare of children 
and ensure compliance to our laws and international commitments. Hence, pursuant 
to Executive Order No. 233, s. 1987, the State created the CWC under the Office of 
the President by virtue of Presidential Decree No. 603 as the authority on children's 
concerns, rights, and advocacy, to pursue this endeavor. The council is mandated to 
coordinate and monitor the implementation of policies, programs, and measures to 
ensure a child-sensitive society, where every child fully enjoy his/her rights.
t 
•
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
S.B. No. 
f
'. r  
’
'Dtl .•
■* 
t - l .
i . "  
c!j>
•18 NOV 13 PI 50
Introduced by Senator Grace Poe
AN ACT
TO ORDAIN THE NEW BUILDING CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES
Explanatory Note
"To live together in the world means essentially that a world of things is 
between those who have it in common, as a table is located between those 
who sit around it; the world, like every in-between, relates and separates 
men at the same time." -  Hannah Arendt, "The Human Condition"
We often forget role of buildings in our daily lives. Whether it is the homes which house 
our families, or the offices where we work, we fail to appreciate how much we rely on 
these structures every day. It is this "built environment" which provides durability and 
protection from the forces of nature, and without which human activity is impossible.
From these precepts, one can argue that the standards of our buildings have a direct 
bearing on the quality of our lives. After all, our health and wellness are affected by our 
surroundings. For example, a National Geographic article from 20171 pointed out that 
buildings with better ventilation, natural lighting (and similar techniques such as task 
lighting, dimmers, and timers), and active design (e.g., staircases facing open windows) 
had healthier, happier, and more productive employees.
In stark contrast, buildings in the Philippines are not always conducive to human health. 
For one, we are the second deadliest country in the Asia Pacific for household air 
pollution.2 At least 16 of our days every year are spent stuck in traffic.3 Severe weather 
disturbances caused us to lose Php 128 billion in economic losses in 2016.4
1 Howard, B.C. "5 Surprising Ways Buildings Can Im prove Our Health" National Geographic (14 February 2017). Retrieved from  
httD s://www.nabonalqeoqraDhic.com/environment/urban-exDeditions/Qreen-buildinQs/surDrisina-wavs-Qreen-buildinQS-imorove- 
health-sustainabilitv/
2 "Ph ranks second in WHO list fo r deadly indoor pollution in Asia Pacific" CNN Philippines (02 May 2018) 
httD://cnnDhiliDDines.com/news/2018/Q5/02/PH-2nd-W HO-indoor-Dollution-Asia-Pacific.html
3 "Filipinos spend 16 days a year stuck in traffic: Study" TTie Straits Times {2^ Novem ber 2017). Retrieved from  
https://www.straitsbm es.com /asia/se-asia/filiDinos-SDend-16-davs-a-vear-stuck-in-trafFic-studv
4 "Typhoons, droughts leave 129 billion in economic loses in 2016" ABS-CBN (31 O ctober 2017). Retrieved from  https://new s.abs- 
cbn.eom /business/10/31/17/tvDhoons-drouahts-leave-129-billion-in-econom ic-losses-in-2Q 16
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S. No. 2 1 5 2
J t = > i .  cr-'tarp
ht.' -  .
. . 1...
'19 
JAN 16 
P12 ;14
R E Q 1 - - -
Introduced by SENATOR LEILA M. DE LIMA
AN ACT
INSTITUTIONALIZING A GRANT AND FEE PROGRAM TO INCENTIVIZE 
AND PROMOTE THE PROPER RECYCLING OF USED COMPUT ERS AND 
TO PROMOTE THE DEVELOPMENT OF A NATIONAL 
INFRASTRUCrUlLE FOR THE RECYCLING OF USED COMPUTERS
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Constitution, Article II, Section 15, declares that “[t]he State shall protect 
and promote the right to health of the people and instil health consciousness among 
them.” Section 16 of the same further asserts that “[t]he State shall protect and 
advance the right of the people to a balanced and healthful ecology in accord with the 
rhythm and harmony of nature.”
This bill seeks to put these declared policies into practice by aiming to reduce 
the amount of garbage accrued from used and discarded computers thereby 
minimizing our carbon footprint and helping maintain a balanced ecology for all.
In a consumer-driven, market-oriented economy, newrer forms of technology 
are continuously emerging and are being adopted and utilized at a rapidly increasing 
pace. These technological innovations have effectively shrunk the world in a digital 
sense especially with the emergence of social media and high-speed internet 
connectivity.
These developments have rendered vast intercontinental distances practically 
moot, as goods, services, and even people are often just a push of a button away, 
provided one has the means to access the technology in the first place. Subsequently, 
the technology required to provide consumers with the means to interface with 
digital reality has also expanded exponentially over the past decade or so as
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OE THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
T -
-
' ^ 5  
t citi if
■19 JAN 29 P3 :12
S E N A T E  
S. B. No. 2192
Introduced by Senator Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel HI
AN ACT PROTECTING CHILDREN FROM TRAVELLING SEX 
OFFENDERS AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
A 2016 Global Study on Sexual Exploitation of Children in 
Travel and Tourism1 revealed that despite 20 years of efforts, the 
sexual exploitation of children in travel and tourism has expanded 
across the globe and out-paced every attempt to respond at the 
international and national level. The same report highlights the fact 
that the Philippines is one of the most favored destinations of 
travelling sex offenders because our weak legal frameworks and law 
enforcement have allowed them to remain virtually immune from 
prosecution. With about 22 million Filipinos still living below the 
national poverty line, children have been thrust into this form of 
exploitation to help augment the income of their struggling families.
Given the mandate under Article XV, Section 3(2) of the 
Constitution for the State to defend the right of the children to special 
protection from all forms of neglect, abuse, cruelty, exploitation, and 
other conditions prejudicial to their development, this bill seeks to put 
a stop to this form of exploitation by barring foreign sex offenders or 
those whose names are included in any sex offender registry from 
travelling to our country.
1 Angela Hawke and Alison Raphael. Offenders on the Move : Global Study on Sexual Exploitation of Children in 
Travel and Tourism. Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands through Defence for Children -ECPAT 
Netherlands (2016).
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Third Regular Session
)
j\ ‘ 
.
r.'r*'
S E N A T E
S. B. No. 
2103
'18 NOV 1^ PI 53
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G, ESCUDERO
AN ACT
DEVELOPING THE PILI INDUSTRY, CREATING FOR THE PURPOSE THE PILI 
SUBSIDY FUND AND THE PILI RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT CENTER, 
AND DECLARING THE PROVINCE OF SORSOGON AS THE PILI CAPITAL OF
THE PHILIPPINES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Sorsogon accounts for more than half of the country's total pill production at 4,052 
metric tons in 2015, making it the largest supplier of pili in the the country. It is aiso the 
major source of kernel, a by-product of pili, that most of the big processors in the Bicoi Region 
use, based on the Vaiue Chain Anaiysis (VCA) conducted by the iocal and nationai levei 
planning (I-PLAN) component of thie Department of Agricuiture 
Philippine Rurai 
Deveiopment Project (DA-PRDP).
The pili tree is fast gaining fame as the "tree of iife", next to the coconut tree. Aside from 
kemei, its by-products have been found to have various uses. Its shell can be recycled to make 
charcoals and fashion accessories. The popuiar elemi essentiai oii uses the pili's pulp as one of 
its ingredients. Even its wood may be carved as furniture or decor at home.
Piii remains to be one of the high-vaiue crops in Bicoi and as they begin to be 
recognized in the global market, the help and support from the government through 
research, technology, and marketing wiii make piii a highly marketable product in the 
global scene.
The bill also seeks to recognize the province of Sorsogon as the Pili Capital of 
the Philippines to garner additional government support and budget allocation not only 
to maintain, promote, and protect the country's pili industry, but most importantly, to 
ensure its sustainability for the benefit of the farmers and other stakeholders.
Hence, approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Third Regular Session
S E N A T E
Introduced by Senator SONNY ANGARA
AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR THE FULL AND EFFECTIVE IMPLEMENTATION AND 
ENFORCEMENT OF INTERNATIONAL MARITIME INSTRUMENTS OF WHICH 
THE PHILIPPINES IS A STATE-PARTY
EXPLANATORY NOTE
One of the difficulties of the overseas shipping fleet of the Philippines is the 
inability of the Philippines to fully and effectively implement international maritime 
conventions. The detention rate of Philippine flagged ships has affected its 
competitiveness as a flag registry and has caused the continued deletion of ships 
from our registry. The Philippines has also been placed on the Gray List of the Tokyo 
Port State Control Memorandum of Understanding (Tokyo MoU) which bases such 
classification on the performance and detention rate of ships in our registry during 
port State control inspections among Tokyo MoU members. The 2009 Voluntary IMO 
Member State Audit Scheme (VIMSAS) which the Philippines volunteered for, as one 
of its findings, the inability of the Philippines to effectively implement and enforce 
international maritime conventions.
The Philippines is a State Party to the five (5) safety conventions which this 
law seeks to implement particularly:
• 
The International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974 (SOLAS 74);
• 
The International Convention for the Prevention and Pollution from Ships, 
1973, as amended by the Protocol of 1978 (MARPOL 73/78);
• 
The Convention on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at 
Sea, 1972 (COLREGS);
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E
tr 'a V l
ft:.r.tRrp
*19 
,ll\N 30 P2'-47
RE'..
COMMITTEE REPORT NO. 
621
Submitted by the Committee on Justice and Human Rights on JAN 3 0 2019
Re; Senate No.
2195
Recommending its approval in substitution of Senate Bill Nos. 590, 1448, and 1452, 
taking into consideration House Bill No. 335
Sponsor: Senator Gordon
MR. PRESIDENT:
The Committee on Justice and Human Rights to which were referred Senate Bill 
No. 590, introduced by Senator Trillanes IV, entitled:
"AN ACT
AUTHORIZING THE COURT TO REQUIRE COMMUNITY SERVICE IN LIEU OF 
IMPRISONMENT FOR THE PENALTY OF ARRESTO MENOR, AMENDING FOR 
THE PURPOSE CHAPTER FIVE, TITLE THREE, BOOK ONE OF ACT NO. 3815, 
AS AMENDED, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS "THE REVISED PENAL CODE""
Senate Bill No. 1448, introduced by Senators Angara and Ejercito, entitled:
"AN ACT
AUTHORIZING THE COURT TO REQUIRE COMMUNITY SERVICE IN LIEU OF 
DETENTION FOR THE PENALTY OF ARRESTO MENOR, AMENDING FOR THE
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE } 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
}
T h ird  R e g u la r S ession  
}
• '  L ’ i i I ■ •!.' i . \  :  . ; • / ;j>
■18 OCT 23 P2M5
S E N A T E
S.B. No. 2082
t..
INTRODUCED BY SENATOR VICENTE C. SOTTO III
AN ACT
REORGANIZING THE COMELEC OFFICES 
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) is the constitutional body 
tasked to protect and uphold the people’s dem ocratic right to choose the 
country s leaders. It consists of over 5,000 employees nationwide, serving as 
its m ain support in carrying out its vast m andate.
For m any years, the COMELEC Employees’ Union have continuously 
asserted the employees’ right to substantial and ju st salary increases. This 
rs due to the notable disparity between their salary grade and that of those 
who 
work 
in 
other 
governm ent 
agencies, 
which 
possess 
sim ilar 
qualifications and are in equivalent positions. It is about time that Congress 
respond to their call for adequate adjustm ents in their rem uneration.
Equal pay for equal work in governm ent service is the ultim ate goal of 
the proposed legislation. It can only be realized through reclassification and 
upgrading of the current plantilla positions, particularly in the COMELEC 
Mam and Field Offices. Furtherm ore, it is posited th at increase in their 
salary will be an effective deterrent to graft and corrupt practices.
Thus, the passage of this bill is earnestly so//ght.
nCENTE C. S( TTO III
9f
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
T h ir d  R e g u la r S ession
SENATE
s.B.No. 
2032
€ t -
’18 SEP26rPl:02i
Introduced by Senator Ana T heresia "Risa" H ontiveros-B araquel
AN ACT
GRANTING THE OVERSEAS FILIPINO WORKERS THE RIGHT TO EQUAL PROTECTION 
ON MONEY CLAIMS, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE THE FIFTH PARAGRAPH OF 
SECTION 10 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8042, AS AMENDED BY REPUBLIC ACT NO. 10022
EXPLANATORY NOTE
As stated in the case of "Antonio M. Serrano VS Gallant Maritime Services, Inc. and 
Marlow Navigation Co., Inc." under G.R. No. 167614 dated 24 March 2009, the clause ‘or for 
three months for every year of the unexpired term, whichever is less' appears in the fifth 
paragraph of Section 10 of RA 8042, specifically:
"Sec. 10. Money Claims. - x x x in case of term ination of overseas 
employment without just, valid or authorized cause as defined by law or 
contract, the workers shall be entitled to the full reim bursem ent of his 
placement fee with interest of twelve percent (12%) per annum, plus his 
salaries for the unexpired portion of his employment contract or for 
th re e  (3) m onths for every year of unexpired term , w hichever is 
less.11
X X X X (Emphasis and underscoring supplied)
was declared by the Supreme Court as unconstitutional for violating the equal 
protection clause of the 1987 Philippine Constitution.
In S e rra n o , the Supreme Court held that:
"In sum, prior to R.A. No. 8042, OFWs and local workers with 
fixed-term employment who were illegally discharged were 
treated alike in terms of computation of their money claims: they 
were uniformly entitled to their salaries for the entire unexpired 
portions of their contracts. But with the enactment of R.A. No.
8042, specifically the option of the subject clause, illegally 
dismissed OFWs with an unexpired portion of one year or more in 
their employment contract have since been differently treated in 
that their money claims are subject to a 3-month cap, w hereas no 
such limitation is imposed on local workers with fixed-term 
employment.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
T hird  R e g u la r S ession 
)
SENATE
S. B. No. 
2134
e i ‘
Introduced By Senator Ana Theresia “Risa” Hontiveros Baraquel
’:3 
DEC 13 f?1 :39
/
AN ACT INSTITUTING ABSOLUTE D I\TORCE IN THE PHILIPPINES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Philippines is the only country in the world, aside from the Vatican City, where 
di\ orce is not legal. Despite this, the number and proportion of Filipinos who are 
separate has been increasing over time -  demonstrating that the denial of legal 
remedies to those seeking to dissolve their union has largely been an ineffective way of 
upholding the policy of the State to keep families together.
It has been well-documented that the absence of a divorce law has had disproportionate 
effects on women who are more often the victims of abuse within marriages, and who 
are forced to remain in joyless and unhealthy unions because of the dearth of legal 
options. Studies have shown that breaking free from such unions and being given a fresh 
start result in improved health outcomes for women1. Studies likewise show that it is not 
divorce that creates well-being issues for children, it is bearing witness to the troubled 
marriages of their parents2.
While the State continues to recognize the sanctity of family life and endeavors to 
protect and strengthen the family as a basic autonomous social institution consistent 
uith Article II, Section 12 of the 1987 Constitution, it is also dutybound to promote and 
protect the well-being of its citizens. It is a duty that should extend to circumstances 
whereby this well-being is being compromised by the inability to break free from 
irremediably broken marriages and start anew in healthier family and living 
arrangements. 
b
In view of the foregoing, immediate passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
ANA THERESIA “RISA” H O p T V ^ O S  BARAQUEL
1 h ttp s://w w w .lie b e rtp u b .e o m /d o i/1 0 .1 0 8 9 /iw h .2 0 1 6 .5 9 2 5
h ttp s ://w w w . sciencedirect.com /science/article/abs/D ii/S 0890856709662948
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E
ti)t' frc ;a t« r!»
COMMITTEE REPORT No. 539
■18 M - r F T
Submitted by the Committee on Ways and Means flEC - h 2018 MCE. u .. .. 
—
Re: Senate Bill No. _2127
Recommending its approval in substitution of Senate Bill Nos. 958 taking into consideration House Bill No. 
3297.
Sponsor: Sen. Sonny Angara______________________________________________________________
MR. PRESIDENT:
The Committee on Ways and Means to which were referred Senate Bill No. 958, introduced by 
Senator Sonny Angara, entitled:
AN ACT
TO STRENGTHEN THE COUNTRY’S GROSS INTERNATIONAL RESERVES 
(GIR) AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SECTIONS 32 AND 151 OF THE 
NATIONAL INTERNAL REVENUE CODE, AS AMENDED, AND FOR OTHER 
PURPOSES
and House Bill 3297, introduced by Representatives Escudero, Cosalan, et al., entitled:
AN ACT
TO STRENGTHEN THE COUNTRY’S GROSS INTERNATIONAL RESERVES 
(GIR) AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SECTIONS 32 AND 151 OF THE 
NATIONAL INTERNAL REVENUE CODE, AS AMENDED, AND FOR OTHER 
PURPOSES
has considered the same and has the honor to report these back to the Senate with the recommendation that
the attached bill. Senate Bill No. 2127 , prepared by the Committee, entitled:
AN ACT
TO STRENGTHEN THE COUNTRY’S GROSS INTERNATIONAL RESERVES 
(GIR) AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SECTIONS 32 AND 151 OF THE 
NATIONAL INTERNAL RE\ ENUE CODE, AS AMENDED, AND FOR OTHER 
PURPOSES
be approved in substitution of Senate Bill Nos. 958 taking into consideration House Bill No. 3297 with 
Senator Sonny Angara as author.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
i.B.sN»
2o
■ 
5'.'. 
til l.A ** ■ ! . M U '
’18 SEP 19 P3 58
Introduced by Senator Maria Lourdes Nancy S. Binay
AN ACT
AMENDING ARTICLE 1773 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 386, OTHERWISE 
KNOWN 
AS 
THE 
NEW 
CIVIL CODE 
OF 
THE 
PHILIPPINES 
BY 
CLARIFYING THE LEGAL EFFECT OF FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE 
FORMAL REQUIREMENTS IN  A CONTRACT OF PARTNERSHIP WHERE 
AN IMMOVABLE PROPERTY IS CONTRIBUTED
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Article 1773 of the New Civil Code of the Philippines provides that a contract of 
partnership shall be void if an inventory of the immovable properties is not 
attached to the public instrum ent presented to the Securities and Exchange 
Commission.
There are instances, however, when the inventory of the immovable contributed 
to the partnership is not provided or is executed with defects (due to incomplete 
information) through excusable neglect or inadvertence, which should not 
adversely affect the status of the contract of the partnership.
The proposed bill thus seeks to amend Article 1773 of the New Civil Code to 
state the failure to attach an inventory of immovable or attaching an inventory 
which does not accurately reflect the contribution of the partners will not affect 
the validity of the partnership and separate juridical personality of said 
partnership. However, such failure to attach or an inaccurate inventory will give 
rise to penal liabilities of the person(s) responsible for such failure or inaccuracy 
as provided under applicable penal laws.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Ihird Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S.B. No. 2030
o L . i f e  -tr.t.ti*
^ B - SCP25 P3:Q8
INTRODUCED BY: SENATOR EMMANUEL D. PACQUIAO
RlL.
AN ACT
ESTABLISHING A TECHNICAL EDUCATION AND SKILLS DEVELOPMENT 
AUTHORITY (TESDA) MANPOWER DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTE (MDI) IN THE 
SOCCSKSARGEN 1H£G10N, AND APPROPIHATING FUNDS THEREFOR
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) was primarily 
created to provide relevant, accessible, high quality and efficient technical education and skills 
development in support of the development of high quality Filipino middle-level manpower 
responsive to and in accordance with Philippine development goals and priorities
In the fulfillment of TESDA’s mandate, it established three (3) TESDA training centers 
in SOCCSKSARGEN Region Despite this, its presence is still not enough to accommodate 
more of its youth population, especially the out-of-school youth The Philippine Statistics 
Authority (PSA) reports that the unemployment rate of Region XII accounts to 3.8% with 
underemployment rate of 17.9%.
Meanwhile, the construction sector has been one of the largest employment generators 
in the country For 2017-2022, the Philippine Construction Industry is targeted to grow at a 
very fast pace under the Build Build Build Program of the government which aims to accelerate 
infrastructure development translating into multiplier economic effects.
The lack of regional training center and the lack of training capability to empower the 
youth population to respond with the growing opportunities in the region must be acted with 
the creation of TESDA Manpower Development Institute (MDI) in the region.
In this regard, this bill seeks to expand the coverage of TESDA programs by creating a 
TESDA Training Institute in SOCCSKSARGEN Region to address the lack in training centers 
and enhance the quality of manpower in the Region and the neighboring provinces.
In view of the foregoing, the approval of this bill is earnestly sodg
EMMA
QUIAO
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES
Third Regular Session
)
)
SENATE
S.B. NO. 
P 1 P R
iV 
.li­
o n  • 
'■nii'
*18 
DEC
Introduced by Senator Maria Lourdes Nancy S. Binay
AN ACT
REQUIRING 
THE 
LABELING 
AND 
INDICATION 
OF 
PERISHABLE 
AGRICULTURAL COMMODITIES IMPORTED INTO THE PHILIPPINES 
WITH THEIR COUNTRY OF ORIGIN AND ESTABLISHING PENALTIES 
FOR VIOLATIONS THEREOF
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Article II, Section 15 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution provides:
"The State shall protect and promote the right to health and instill 
health consciousness among them."
The Eight (8) Basic Consumer Rights particularly the right to safety or the right 
to be protected against the marketing of goods that are hazardous to health and 
life, the right to information or the right to be protected against dishonest or 
misleading advertising and labeling, and the right to be given the facts and 
information needed to make an informed choice should be made available to the 
public.
Thus, the proposed bill seeks to require the indication of country of origin for 
imported perishable agricultural commodities in order to protect and guide 
consumers to make knowledgeable decisions against deceptive, unfair and 
unconscionable acts and practices.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE
-CTO V
of U|.' ir- - frrfa ' p
*18 
SEP 20 A lins
COMMITTEE REPORT NO. 475
, v
iF-
Submitted jointly by the Committees on Women, Children, Family Relab'ons and 
Gender 
Equality; 
National 
Defense 
and 
Security; 
and 
Finance 
on
SEP 2 0 2018 .
Re: 
Senate Bill No. 
2023
Recommending its approval in substitution of Senate Bill Nos. 1474, 1543, 1697, 
and 1935, taking into consideration House Bill No. 7442.
Sponsor: Senator Risa Hontiveros
MR. PRESIDENT:
The Committees on Women, Children, Family Relab'ons and Gender Equality; 
National Defense and Security; and Finance to which were referred Senate Bill No. 
1474, introduced by Senators Vicente C. Sotto III and Joel Villanueva:
"AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR THE SPECIAL PROTECTION OF CHILDREN 
IN SITUATIONS OF ARMED CONFLICT AND PROVIDING 
PENALTIES FOR VIOLATION THEREOF"
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S. No.
fil
(fiifuft of IheJi-Piipi.irjj
*16 JUL 19 P5:15
KKCi . 
,, 
MY;
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
AMENDING SECTION 31 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 6770, OTHERWISE KNOWN 
AS THE "OMBUDSMAN ACT OF 1989", AS AMENDED ALLOWING PRIVATE 
LAWYERS TO ACT AS PROSECUTORS ON BEHALF OF THE OMBUDSMAN
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Article XI, Section 12 of the 1987 Constitution provides that the Ombudsman and his 
Deputies, as protectors of the people, shall act promptly on complaints filed in any form or 
manner against public officials or employees of the Government, or any subdivision, agency 
or instrumentality thereof, including government-owned or controlled corporations, and shall, 
in appropriate cases, notify the complainants of the action taken and the result thereof
Nonetheless, contrary to the above constitutional mandate, the Office of the Ombudsman has, 
in the past received flak for its lackluster performance insofar as conviction rates are 
concerned - scoring only a few convictions in its 25-year history. A 2006 study conducted by 
the Center for People Empowerment in Governance (CenPeg) in partnership with the 
Transparency International (TI) reports that the Office of the Ombudsman has suffered a 
backlog of cases, while many cases said to have been disposed were actually dismissed or 
archived. The lack of prosecutors is one of the reasons why cases have languished in the 
Office.
Thus, this bill seeks to authorize the Office of the Ombudsman to hire private lawyers to act 
as investigators and/or prosecutors to assist in the prosecution of cases filed before it. Waiting 
for a substantial increase in the budget appropriated for the Office to cover the ideal number 
of lawyers may take years. Unless and until the number of lawyers is beefed up, dramatic 
improvement in prompt and fair disposition of cases by the Office of the Ombudsman is 
highly unlikely.
In view of the foregoing, immediately passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
ANTONI
F. TRILLANES IV
a to r
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
*16 JUL21 P2:43
S E N A T E
s. No. 822
HI (1
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto
AN ACT
TO INCLUDE IN THE COMPUTATION OF THE INTERNAL REVENUE 
ALLOTMENT (IRA), ALL THE NATIONAL INTERNAL REVENUE TAXES 
COLLECTED BY THE BUREAU OF INTERNAL REVENUE AND THE 
BUREAU OF CUSTOMS, AMENDING FOR THIS PURPOSE SECTION 284 OF 
REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7160, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE LOCAL 
GOVERNMENT CODE OF 1991
Explanatory Note
Section 6, Article X of the 1987 Constitution provides that the local government 
units (LGUs) shall have a just share, as determined by law, in the national taxes which 
shall be automatically released to them.
In view of this constitutional mandate. Republic Act No. 7160, otherwise known 
as the Local Government Code of 1991 was enacted to achieve and promote the basic 
policy of local autonomy.
However, the Local Government Code of 1991 particularly Section 284 provides 
that the LGUs shall have a share in the “national internal revenue taxes” which was 
interpreted by the National Government to include only the national internal revenue 
taxes collected by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR). Therefore, the national internal 
revenue taxes such as the value-added tax and excise taxes on the importation of goods 
colleeted by the Bureau of Customs (BOC) are not included in the computation of 
internal revenue allotment (IRA) share of LGUs.
The LGUs argue that the value-added tax and excise taxes collected by the BOC 
should be included in the alloeation of IRA share beeause the said taxes are also “national 
internal revenue taxes” imposed under the National Internal Revenue Code (NIRC) of 
1997, as amended. The BOC is only deputized by the BIR to collect such taxes on 
imported goods.
The LGUs have been deprived of their just share in the national internal revenue 
taxes collected on the importation of goods. For the years 2010 to 2014, the BOC 
collected an average of P244.3 Billion annually in value-added tax and excise taxes.1
1 BOC Annual Report/Collection Performance Report submitted to Congressional Oversight Committee on 
Comprehensive Tax Reform Program (COCCTRP)
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
S.B. No
SENATE172
•V THE
RECEIVED
DATE.JUN 3fl7l)ir
yu) TIME: 
<T‘^ 3C |XtA (.,' 7
\  
I / J 
y
“ /
liu
BY:
BILLS & iiNDE}'
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT INSTITUTIONALIZING THE ABOT ALAM PROGRAM 
EXPLANATORY NOTE
At the age of 78, Miguel Lajos is graduating with a degree in AB Poiiticai Science from 
the University of the Visayas-Daiaguete.
"it is never too iate," he telis peopie.
Miguel Lajos is not alone in his aspiration to continue schooling and earn a degree but, 
like him, too many Filipinos are faced with challenges such as poverty that impede on their 
education.
The Abot Alam Bill seeks to effectively address the needs of the fast growing numbers 
of Filipino youth aged 7 to 24 who are not attending school.
This measure calls for the creation of a comprehensive national framework designed to 
achieve the government's aim to provide education for each and every Filipino.
Targeting the out-of-school (OSY)> including those who are at risk of dropping out and 
those who have never had any fprtfial schooling, the Abot Alam program has the following 
directives:
1) Data banking to enable the government to know the total percentage of OSY in the 
country and where these OSY are through the Barangay Abot Alam Targeting System;
2) A program mapping system to ensure that the initiatives and resources of all 
government agencies, non-government organizations and institutions, volunteer 
groups, and all other sectors mandated to solving the challenges of OSY in the country 
are cohesive and efficient;
3) A focus on reintegration and equal opportunity through the program matching 
system so that all OSY are given equal access to programs and services of partner 
agencies and institutions.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E  
S. B. No. 
8 2
BILLS
INDEX
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT
IMPLEMENTING THE RIGHT OF THE PEOPLE TO INFORMATION ON 
MATTERS OF PUBLIC CONCERN GUARANTEED UNDER SECTION SEVEN, 
ARTICLE THREE OF THE 1987 CONSTITUTION AND THE STATE POLICY OF 
FULL PUBLIC DISCLOSURE OF ALL ITS TRANSACTIONS INVOLVING 
PUBLIC INTEREST UNDER SECTION TWENTY-EIGHT, ARTICLE TWO OF 
THE 1987 CONSTITUTION, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The State recognizes the right of the people to information on matters of 
public concern, and adopts and implements a policy of full public disclosure of all 
its transactions involving public interest, subject to the procedures and limitations 
provided by this Act. This right is indispensable to the exercise of the right of the 
people and their organizations to effective and reasonable participation at all levels 
of social, political and economic decision-making.
This bill seeks to enliance access to information under the principle of public 
accountability of any public office. Transparency in all government transactions 
empowers the people to correctly demand accountability from the governmeiit.
Finally, this proposed measure also includes provisions that penalize failure 
to disclose information within a given period of time, such penalties range from 
damages, suspension and imprisonment.
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
}
*16
J^enalr
(f flirt a f  
f f t H i f  (j
20 P4 29
SENA
S.B. No.
698
K i n
introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT
REDUCING THE CORPORATE INCOME TAX RATE, AMENDING SECTIONS 27 AND 28 
OF THE NATIONAL INTERNAL REVENUE CODE OF 1997, AS AMENDED, AND FOR
OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
We are working towards a vision of the private sector where bustling local 
enterprises coexist, cooperate, and collaborate with foreign companies, all 
contributing to a fair, innovative, and socially conscious Philippine business 
environment.
Over the past years, macroeconomic factors suggest that we are on the right 
track with our stellar economic growth, much improved credit ratings, and the 
highest capital investment of US$8.74 billion from inward FDI in the last six years 
with over 58,000 associated jobs created in 2015.
However, there is still a lot we can do to attract and retain foreign investors 
to stimulate even more economic growth and achieve prosperity for more Filipinos. 
Furthermore, we must seize the opportunity to be a leader in the ASEAN as we 
harmonize our economies as a region.
It is imperative that we evaluate our corporate tax system. At present, we 
have the highest corporate income tax rate in the ASEAN at 30%. When the ASEAN 
Economic Community Declaration was signed, most members began to lower their 
own corporate income tax rates. Thailand gradually reduced its corporate income 
tax rate from 30% to 23%, and now it stands at 20%. Vietnam also lowered its 
corporate income tax rate from 25% to 20%. The average corporate income tax rate 
in the ASEAN is at 23%.
For the Philippines to attract more investors and to lure in more capital, we 
must be able to compete with our peers. Though this may result in a lower revenue 
collection for the government, the multiplier effect of having more investment, 
expanding our tax base and increasing economic activities will be tremendous.
V  iOUnV M 5 •
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE } 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
}
First Regular Session 
}
S E N A T  
S.B. No.
i6 
,ll)M 30
' 
K l '
1 '
INTRODUCED BY SENATOR VICENTE C. SOTTO III
AN ACT
REQUIRING EMPLOYERS IN THE PRIVATE SECTOR 
TO PAY 14th MONTH PAY
The Constitution, Article II, Section 18 provides:
"The State affirms labor as primary social economic force. It shall 
protect the rights of workers and promote their welfare."
We recognize the indispensable need to provide our Filipino laborers, 
both from the public and private sectors additional 14th month pay. The 
recent PhP 10.00 increase in the minimum wage is too small. Wages have 
invisibly decreased due to the rise in prices of basic commodities. Improved 
business - earnings have not cascaded on its own. The 13th month pay is 
gobbled up by Christmas expenses. We need extra earnings in the middle of 
the year to help in school and medical expenses. Health and education 
needs of the ordinary Filipino must be assisted by our government. This will 
make the maxim attributed to President Ramon Magsaysay become a 
reality- "Those who have less in life should have more in law".
In view thereof. Immediate approval of i is bill is requested
VICENTE C SOTTO III