bettergovph/raw-philippine-data huggingface dataset:
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Third Regular Session
SENATE 
S.B.N o.
S f i i i i t r
m a t 
i^rnt\atn
*15 
NQ V-9 
P 4  ^ 7
U K C L IV B I) BY:
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
TO PROVIDE SURVEILLANCE RESEARCH AND SERVICES AIMED AT 
THE PREVENTION OF BIRTH DEFECTS
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Constitution, Article 2, Section 15 provides: “The State shall protect and 
promote the right to health of the people and instill health consciousness among them.*’
1 
I
Article 13, Section 11 also provides: “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 affordable cost. There 
shall be priority for the needs of the under-privileged, sick, elderly, disabled, women, and 
children. The State shall endeavor to provide free medical care to paupers.”
Around the world, birth defects are the leading cause of death among infants. 
Prevention efforts are slowed by lack of information about the number or causes of birth 
defects. Outbreaks of birth defects may go undetected because surveillance and 
research efforts, if any, are underdeveloped and poorly coordinated. Moreover, our 
people have the wrong attitude when we speak of birth defects.
In complying with the mandate of the Constitution to protect and promote the 
health of the people, this bill is brought forth to reduce if not stop the occurrence of birth 
defects.* 1
DEFITNSOR SANTIAGO
This bill was first filed in the Thirteenth Congress, First Regular Session.
€
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SEN AT. 
S. No.
^ 8
t .
Scnntr
n h t |t
•16 JI\N 25 P5:14
KKCEIVEI) BY;
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
REGULATING THE USE OF MOTOR DRIVEN VEHICLES 
IN RESIDENTIAL AREAS
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Constitution, Article 2, Section 15, provides:
The State shall protect and promote the right to healtia of the people 
and instill health consciousness among them.
Noise or Sound Pollution refers to any exposure of people or animals to sound 
levels that are annoying, stressful, or damaging to a person’s ears. Although loud and 
frightening sounds are part of nature, only in recent years has much of the world become 
urban, industrial, and chronically noisy.
Sound intensity is measured in units called decibels. In nature, an ordinary sound 
level would be 35 decibels. Speech runs between 65 to 70 decibels while heavy traffic 
generates 90 decibels. By 140 decibels, sound gets intolerable and painful to the human 
ear, but the harmful effects, including loss of hearing, set in at much lower levels.
Most noise pollution come from machines, especially trucks, automobiles, and 
aircraft. After market engine modifications and horns can cause the sound emanating 
from vehicle engines to increase several times the ordinary decibel level. The most 
significant health problem caused by, noise pollution is hearing loss. Any noise 
appreciably louder than talking can damage the delicate hair cells in the cochlea, the 
structure in the inner ear that converts sound waves into auditory nerve signals. The
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SEN 
S. No. ^i24
S rn n tr
*\6 JAN 25 P5’17
HE( EIVni) BY:
T
,
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
ESTABLISHING A NATIONAL CRIME DATABASE
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The country has witnessed the escalation of crimes with syndicates habitually 
committing crimes to the detriment of peace and order and the public welfare. Individuals 
and families have been victimized and brutalized in heinous crimes, with criminals 
committing them with impunity due to tlieir political connections. To aggravate the 
situation, law enforcement personnel who are supposed to be the protectors of the people 
take advantage of their positions also in the pursuit of lawless undertakings.
The identification of the criminal elements that are ofien out in the open is 
therefore essential for the eradication of crime. Law enforcement could quickly resolve 
cases being investigated if they have immediate access to updated criminal records. This 
can be done if there is a national crime database.
This bill seeks to establish a national crime database, which will be useful in the 
elimination of crime.1
MIRIAM DEIpISORMNT] AGO
* This bill was originally filed during the Thirteenth Congress, First Regular Session.
1
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s. No. 
3007
S rnaU '
..f i*i« S m iM *
•15 NDV-9 P 4 M B
!tr.c i:iv i;i) » y :
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR COMPULSORY PSYCHO-TECHNICAL DRIVER ASSESSMENT 
TESTS AMENDING SECTION 22 OF REPUBLIC ACTNO. 4136 OTHERWISE 
KNOWN AS THE LAND TRANSPORTATION AND TRAFFIC CODE
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This proposal aims to provide a compulsory psycho-technical driver test. The test 
involves assessment of both a driver’s cognitive and motor skills as well as psychiatric 
fitness to drive. Similar psycho-technical assessment systems are used mainly in 
countries with many traffic accidents such as Italy and Spain.
Primarily, the psycho-technical assessment test would ensure the improvement of 
traffic safety. Indeed, professional drivers, and those drivers dealing with dangerous 
vehicles must be assessed to guarantee the public that they possess the necessary 
knowledge demanded by the job. In addition, the test will help assess the driving ability 
of some patients with early forms of Alzheimer’s disease, with trauma, with visual 
impartment, stroke patients, and even elderly drivers.
According to some reports on the prevention of road-trafiic injuries, more than 
4,000 people die each year at a cost of at least $894 million, or 1.2% of the Philippines’ 
Gross Domestic Product. In addition, it is acknowledged that road accidents are growing 
to be the leading cause of mortality among Filipinos.
The problem on the road is not traffic snarls alone but lack of discipline, civility 
and mutual respect. Motoring mayhem has killed in the past and will continue to snuff
c:j
i W
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s. No. 
3193
y d l 
S rn a tr
•16 FEB-1 P3n7
lUvCBIVEl) BY;
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR A MANDATORY PERIOD TO RELOCATE SQUATTERS. 
GRANTING DISTURBANCE FEES TO OWNERS OF ILLEGALLY OCCUPIED
RESIDENTIAL LAND
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The severe lack of affordable housing in the Philippines greatly contributed to the 
proliferation of squatters in the urban areas, particularly in Metro Manila. The squatting 
problem was considered one of our major problems that the Marcos regime issued 
Presidential Decree No. 772, which made squatting unlawful. However, notwithstanding 
the existence of the Anti-Squatting Law, the problem on squatting ‘continued. It is thus 
quite perplexing that even before giving protection to the legitimate landowners, 
Republic Act No. 7279, otherwise known as the Urban Development and Housing Act of 
1992, was passed discouraging the eviction and demolition of illegal dwellings. R.A. No. 
7279 also mandates the local government units, in coordination with national housing 
agencies, to provide squatters adequate relocation and financial' assistance should 
relocation not be possible within a specific period. It also prohibits the construction of 
illegal dwellings but this provision would simply become a writing on the wall because
Republic Act No. 8386 decriminalized squatting giving formidable strength to squatters'
»
rights.
The noble objectives of these social legislations are primarily to protect the rights 
of the underprivileged and homeless citizens but no protection has been granted to 
legitimate land titleholders. The issue of relocating or resettling the squatters has become
1
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Third Regular Session
SENATE
S. No. _ 3 1 3 5 .
®
 
Senate
'16 FEB-1 P320
HKCKIVEI) liY:
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
CD
AN ACT
IMPROVING GOVERNMENT INTERNSHIP PROGRAMS TO FACILITATE 
HIRING OF FULL-TIME GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Constitution, Article 9-B, Section 3 provides that:
The Civil Service Commission, as the central personnel agency of 
the Government, shall establish a career service and adopt measures to 
promote morale, efficiency, integrity, responsiveness, progressiveness and 
courtesy in the civil service. It shall strengthen the merit and reward 
system, integrate all human resources development programs for all levels 
and ranks, and institutionalize a management climate conducive to public 
accountability. It shall submit to the President and the Congress an annual 
report on its personnel programs.
Internship programs bridge the gap between the academe and the workplace. It 
serves a two-fold purpose. The first is to allow government agencies to augment entry 
level functions while providing valuable work experience to prospective government 
employees. Tlie second is to improve the recruitment pool by establishing a definite list 
of individuals who have experience working with particular government agencies. A 
sound internship system would provide our civil service a necessary layer in training,
i
selection and overall human resource development.
In order to ensure that the internship system is properly carried out across the 
government agencies and that the best practices are acknowledged and replicated, the 
Civil Service Commission must take the lead in establishing rules on internship programs 
as well as gathering pertinent information. The Civil Service Commission has the role of 
making sure that information regarding available internship programs are properly
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENA 
S. No.
?i42
^Srnatr 
c^lfirr
'16 JAN 26 P3«2
HKCEIVEI) BY:
Z ' .
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
PROHIBITING A MANUFACTURER FROM DISTRIBUTING PERSONAL AUDIO 
PLAYERS UNLESS THERE IS A WARNING LABEL ON TliE PRODUCT 
WHICH PROVIDES THAT IT MAY CAUSE HEARING DAMAGE
EXPLANATORY NOTE
According to scientific studies, noise from personal music players threatens 
permanent hearing loss for many people who use them. People who use these personal 
music players do not realize the damage until years after it is done.
Scientific studies indicate that those who listened for only five hours a week at 
high-volume settings exposed themselves to more noise than permitted in the noisiest 
factory or workplace. Maximum volume on some devices can generate as much noise as 
an airplane taking off nearby.
This bill is in response to the harmful volume levels at which users of portable 
audio players (e.g.t MP3 players or iPods) arc able to listen. This bill prohibits a 
manufacturer from distributing a personal audio player unless the manufacturer affixes a 
warning label on the personal audio player that reads as follows: “WARNING: This 
product may cause hearing damage, A volume level of 115 decibels may cause 
permanent hearing damage after 15 minutes of exposure.” 1
DEFUVSOR SANTIMjO
Jhis bill was originally filed In the Fourteenth Congress, Second Regular Session.
I
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OFTHE PHILIPPINES 
. ) 
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE 
s. No. 3225
J&rn.’iir
(OKirf of lh»
•16 FEB 11 A9 27
Ki:rKIVKI) BY:
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT
BANNING SUPERMARKETS, FOOD ESTABLISHMENTS AND OTHER 
SIMILAR BUSINESSES FROM THROWING AWAY AND SPOILING 
UNSOLD FOOD
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Banning food businesses from throwing away and spoiling unsold food can 
be an effective means in addressing food waste. Moreover, it can also serve as a 
mover for these businesses to make use of such unsold food for charity purposes 
through donation.
Food waste is a serious issue not only in the Philippines but in the world as 
.well. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization, in 2011 alone over 1.3 
billion tons of food is lost each year. In rice for instance, every Filipino wasted an 
average of 3.29 kg/year per the Food and Nutrition Research Institute of the 
Department of Science and Technology. This translates to 296,869 metric tons of rice 
accounting to 12.2% of our annual rice importation. In money, the lost amounts to 
PhP7.3 billion.
Admittedly, this Bill does not seek to completely address food waste as there 
are other factors to contend with. However, it is strongly submitted that this Bill can 
make a difference and initiate further awareness in addressing food waste.
■ RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED.
FRANCIS G, ESCUDERO
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s.N o.___ 306fi
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
^tn.nv
t O t l i f f  
l i j f  t r f r r r t s r y
*16 JAN 11 
P4:08
H lX 'K IV i:!) ItV:
AN ACT
AMENDING REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9211, OR THE TOBACCO REGULATION ACT 
OF 2003, SECTION 13, ON WARNINGS ON CIGARETTE PACKAGES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Constitution, Article 2, Section 16, provides that:
The 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.
Health warning labels on cigarette packaging promote health awareness to 
smokers. It is the objective of the bill to take these warnings further by also instilling to 
the user environmental awareness by adding another label in cigarette packages 
informing the consumer to dispose the cigarette litter properly, like any other consumer 
product packaging like soda cans and plastic wappers.1
This bill was originally filed during Ihe Fourteenth Congress, First Regular Session
I
C5
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
Senate
•16 JAM 26 P3«3
SENA 
S.No.
'9143
UKC’EIVF:!) BY:
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR UNIFORM STANDARDS OF LIABILITY FOR HARM ARISING 
OUT OF GENERAL AVIATION ACCIDENTS
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Tlie Philippine government pursues the development and utilization of our air 
potential, and the development of an air transportation system properly adapted to the 
present and future of foreign and domestic commerce. Accordingly, the government 
recognizes the need to: (I) promote safety of flight in air commerce of the Philippines; 
and (2) determine the corresponding liability of those concerned in cases of accidents.
Republic Act No. 776 or “The Civil Aeronautics Act of the Philippines,” as 
amended, provides for, among other things the investigation of accidents involving 
aircraft and penalizes anyone who operates civil aircraft in violation of rules, regulations, 
or orders relating to aeronautics safety standards, practices, or proecdurcs. However, it 
docs not provide a system for determining liability and damages for compensating 
individuals injured in general aviation accidents.
Accordingly, this Act seeks to establish standards for determining liability for 
harm arising out of general aviation accidents.1
MIRIAM DEFUNSOR SANTlAGi
y
1 This bill was originally (lied during the Thirteenth Congress, First Regular Session.
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Third Regular Session
i&rnatr
wf tf]r ^rrtrta r^
’16 Ml 26 P3:38
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam** A. Aquino IV
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The lack o f effective access to responsive financing Is one o f the main challenges to the 
growth and development o f micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) In the Philippines. 
This obstacle Is doubly experienced by our Filipino Muslim entrepreneurs In the 
ARMM/Bangsamoro region and In different parts o f the country with the absence of banking 
and financial services that are compliant with the principles o f Shari'ah or Islamic law.
Islamic banking and finance involves the conduct of banking and finance operations 
consistent with the principles o f Shari'ah or Islamic law. In compliance w ith the Shari'ah, this 
kind of banking and financing operations is characterized by risk-sharing and equitable 
distribution of wealth. Undertaking or financing o f anti-social and unethical businesses, and the 
setting of Interest or a fixed pre-determlned rate o f return are prohibited.
Islamic banking and finance In the Philippines Is limited by three major challenges:
1. Lack o f a clear and regulatory framework for Islamic banking and finance, where our
existing laws do not provide for the policy Infrastructure needed to enable Islamic banks
to thrive and current tax laws also subject Islamic financing products to more taxes;
2. Lack or scarcity o f experts on Islamic banking and finance; and,
3. Lack or very low Investor awareness and acceptance of Islamic banking and finance.
According to the Banko Sentrat ng Pilipinas (BSP), Islamic banking Is the fastest growing 
component o f the financial services Industry worldwide. It continues to grow by 21% despite 
the challenging global context.
Currently, there are more than 600 Islamic financial Institutions operating In more than 
75 countries and almost all major multinational banks offer Islamic financial services.
However, there is only one Islamic bank In the country -  the Al-Amanah Islamic 
Investment Bank of the Philippines, established In 1973.
Thus, It is high tim e to  provide an environment where more o f our Muslim 
entrepreneurs can thrive and prosper, and tap their full potential to help develop the 
ARMM/Bangsamoro region and the whole country as well.
X
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E  
s. B. No. S p a n
dm
11* 0,1  > f r t r t a r y
•15 DEC-8 P C 05
iu;i'Kiv.'.i) liV;
Introduced by Senator Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel HI
AN ACT
STRENGTHENING THE PROHIBITION AGAINST LABOR-ONLY 
CONTRACTING, AMENDING FOR THIS PURPOSE 
PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 442, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS 
THE LABOR CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES, AS AMENDED
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Article II, Section 18 of the 1987 Constitution provides that “[t]he 
State affirms labor as a primary social economic force. It shall protect the 
rights of workers and promote their welfare.” Article XIII, Section 3 also 
states that “[t]he State shall afford full protection to labor, local and 
overseas, organized and unorganized, and promote full employment and 
equality of employment opportunities for all.” The same provision further 
mandates the right of all workers to security of tenure, humane conditions 
of work, and a living wage.
To implement these constitutional guarantees. Presidential Decree 
No. 442, otherwise known as The Labor Code of the Philippines, as 
amended, was enacted. P.D. No. 442 construes security of tenure to mean 
that in cases of regular employment, the employer shall not terminate the 
services of an employee without just or authorized cause.
Despite the rights of the workers under constitutional and labor laws, 
there are employers who wantonly circumvent labor laws through a system 
that is designed to prevent workers from attaining regular employment and 
security of tenure, such as by terminating employment every five months 
and thereafter rehiring the same workers for the same duration, or by 
denying the existence of employer-employee relationship by engaging the
i*'.- . 
‘
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Tliird Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s. No. 
3039
, } ■ '■«
, 
V- 
.•» «':r
M
•1'^ DEC 16 P4i>7
\
ivy.___
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
DEFINING AND PENALIZING THE CRIME OF CRIMINAL NEGLECT OF A 
VULNERABLE ELDERLY PERSON OR A PERSON WITH DISABILITY
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Constitution, Article 2, Section 11 provides that:
Tlie State values the dignity of every human person and guarantees 
full respect for human rights.
In addition, Article 15, Section 4 provides that:
Tlie family has the duty to care for its elderly members but the state 
may also do so through just programs of social security.
The Penal Code is replete with provisions penalizing abandonment of children and 
other persons in danger. Articles 275 to 378 of the Penal Code punish various forms of 
abandonment or neglect. However, there is no punishment for abandoning or neglecting 
elderly people and people with disability.
While Republic Act No. 9994, also known as the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 
2010, and Republic Act No. 7277, also known as the Magna Carta for Disabled Persons, 
were enacted to “recognize the rights of senior citizens”1 and to “give full support to the 
improvement of the total well-being of disabled persons”2, respectively, both laws failed 
to address eases of neglect of the elderly and persons with disabilities.
Our country is known for caring for our ciders and our family members who have 
disabilities. However, there arc still reported eases of neglect and abandonment of
1 Republic Act No. 9994, Section I (a).
2 Republic Act No. 7277, Section 2 (a).
-Strmit' 
{!\Iif,;. 01 tlJ •. ;i>.rt.t.,~ 
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
'13 
JUl -1 
P 1 :42 
SENATE 
1 ') II 
s. R No. -----l-,:;, 'I 
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Barangays, being an administrative division and a local govermnent unit, are the front 
lines of government service. Given its close proximity to our homes and workplaces, barangays 
and its officials are expected to function above and beyond the normal service hours extended by 
government to the people. 
Thus, it is the objective of this bill to increase the benefits of barangay officials given 
their twenty-four hour work, and as the most visible faces of govermnent service. We submit 
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 


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SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
SENATE 
S. B. No. 124 
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 
AN ACT 
AMENDING PARAGRAPH (A), SECTION 393, CHAPTER IV, TITLE I, BOOK III OF 
REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7160, THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT CODE, AS AMENDED, 
INCREASING THE BENEFITS OF BARAN GAY OFFICIALS 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. 
Paragraph (a),Section 393, Chapter N, Title I, Book III of Republic Act 
No. 7160, as amended, is hereby amended to read as follows: 
"Section 393.Benefits of Barangay Officials. -
(a) Barangay officials, including barangaytanods and members of the 
lupongtagapamayapa, shall receive honoraria, allowances, and such other 
emoluments as may be authorized by law or barangay, municipal or city ordinance 
in accordance with the provisions of this Code, but in no case shall it be less than 
[One thousand pesos (Pi,OOO.OO)] TWENTY PERCENT (20%) ABOVE THE 
MINIMUM WAGE RATE PREVAILING IN THE REGION per month for the 
punongbarangay and [Six hundred pesos (P600.00)] THE MINIMUM WAGE 
RATE PREVAILING IN THE REGION per month for the sangguniangbarangay 
members, barangay treasurer, and barangay secretary: PrOVided, however, That 
the annual appropriations for personal services shall be subject to the budgetary 
limitations prescribed under Title Five, Book II of this Code; 
XXX. IJ 
SEC. 2. 
All laws, presidential decrees, executive orders, proclamations and/or 
administrative regulations which are inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are hereby 
amended, modified, superseded or repealed accordingly. 
SEC. 3. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days from its publication in the Official 
Gazette or at least three (3) newspapers of national circulation. 
I 
Approved, 
I 
1 
'~ ,
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES ) 
First Regular Session 
) 
SENATE 
496 
S.NO. ___ _ 
Introduced by Senator Antonio "Sonny" F. Trillanes IV 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
'setmb 
(1iJ!f,~ r of til. »vn'''or~ 
'13 JUl -4 All :20 
It has been often said that our men and women in the government service, particularly those who 
have devoted their years in the government for more than twenty or thirty years despite meager 
salaries are the so-called unsung heroes of our country. But beyond this recognition, nothing 
much appears to await them as they leave the government service. 
This hill therefore aims to give due recognition to these unsung heroes by the expedient act of 
promoting them one grade higher at the time of their retirement, an assurance that when they 
leave the government service, they have been daily rewarded. 
This system of automatic promotion is an enshrined policy in the military and there is no 
compelling reason why said system should not likewise be extended to the civil service. 
In view of the foregoing, immediate approval of this meas e is earnestly sought. 
Senator 
1 
\ 


SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
. REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES ) 
First Regular Session 
) 
SENATE 
496 
S.NO. ___ _ 
:itltutt 
(t!){fl;r of i~~ ')'N1'Vt:lrg 
'13 
JUL -4 
1\11 :20 
Introduced by Senator Antonio "Sonny" F. Trillanes IV 
AN ACT 
PROVIDING AUTOMATIC PROMOTION OF GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS AND 
EMPLOYEES UPON RETIREMENT FROM GOVERNMENT SERVICE AND FOR 
OTHER PURPOSES 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
assembled: 
1 
SECTION 1. Automatic Promotion - All government officials and employees who are 
2 
eligible for compulsory retirement shall be granted an automatic promotion equivalent to One 
3 
Grade Level Higher than herlhis position at the time of retirement. For this purpose, the adjusted 
4 
Salary Grade Level of the retiree shall be used as the basis for the computation of his/her 
5 
retirement. 
6 
7 
SEC. 2. The Civil Service Commission in coordination with the Department of Budget 
8 
and Management and the Government Service Insurance System shall formulate the necessary 
9 
rules and regulations for the effective implementation of this Act. 
10 
11 
SEC. 3. Effectivity - This Act shall take effect 15 days following its pUblication in the 
12 
OffiCial Gazette or in any two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved, 
1
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 
) 
) 
) 
'13 
.JlJL?i 1\,[ 6 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Civil Code. Article 941. provides that a legacy of a generic personal 
property is valid even if nothing of the same kind exists in the estate. Such a 
property must exist in the estate for a devise of indeterminate real property to be 
valid. The administrator of the estate must acquire the property, which is the 
subject of the legacy, if the said property does not form part of the estate. 
On the other hand, the administrator is not so obliged if the property, 
which does not form part of the estate, is real property and is the subject of a 
devise. Thus, there is a difference in the rules, depending on whether the 
property is personal or real. This is a result of an adaptation of Roman Law which 
treats property with more liberality. 
The rational behind Roman law is no longer relevant simply because 
personal property is easier to acquire and dispose of. There is no compelling 
reason to apply different rules for a legacy of generic personal property on the 
one hand, and a devise of indeterminate real property, on the other hand. 
Both must be treated equally, such that a legacy or devise can only be 
valid if the property given exists in the estate of the decedent. 
In view of the foregoing, early passage of this proposed measure is 
earnestly requested. 
Senator 


SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 9 81 
) 
) 
) 
'13 
JUL2'} .\9:26 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
AMENDING REPUBLIC ACT NO. 386, ALSO KNOWN AS THE CIVIL CODE 
OF THE PHILIPPINES, ARTICLE 941 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Article 941 of Republic Act No. 386 is hereby amended to 
read as follows: 
"Article 941 - A legacy of generic personal property shall 
be valid [even if there be no] IF THERE EXISTS things of the 
[same] DESIGNATED kind in the estate. 
"A device of indeterminate real property shall be valid only 
if there be immovable property of its kind in the estate. 
"The right of choice shall belong to the executor or 
administrator who shall comply with the legacy by the delivery of a 
thing OF THE KIND DESIGNATED IN THE LEGACY [which is 
neither of interior nor of superior quality]." 
SEC. 2. Separability Clause. - If any provision or part hereof, is held 
invalid or unconstitutional, the remainder of the law or the provision not otherwise 
affected shall remain valid and subsisting. 
SEC. 3. Repealing Clause. - Any law, presidential decree or issuance, 
executive order, letter of instruction, administrative order, rule or regulation 
contrary to, or inconsistent with, the provisions of this Act is hereby repealed, 
modified, or amended accordingly. 
SEC 4. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days 
after its publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
-' 
;i~t1i;\h? 
SIXFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
It;iG\;r nf Itli ~"'fftbr~ 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
'13 
JUL -8 Pl :15 
SENATE 
S. B. No. -5-9-3 
I P HV:-t-
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 
This bill intends to lower by way of an amendment the maximum permissible truck 
loadings in the country provided under Section 6 of Republic Act No. 8794. 
The reason for this amendment is to ease standard road design and usage considering that 
the Philippines has one of the highest maximum permissible truck loadings per sinfle axle load, 
which is at 13,500 kilograms, in the world. 
. .  . 
~. 
FRANCISG. ESCUDERO 
11.' 
uK.. 


--------------------------------------
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S.B.No. 
593 
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 
AN ACT AMENDING SECTION 6 OF 
REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8794 
'13 
JUL -8 P 1 :15 
Be it enacted by the Senate and· the House of Representatives of the Republic of the 
Philippines in Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Section 6 of Republic Act No. 8794 is hereby amended to read as follows: 
"Section 6. Penalty for Overloading - An amount equivalent to twenty five (25%) of the 
MVUC shall be imposed on trucks and trailers for loading beyond their prescribed gross vehicle 
weight: provided. That no axle load shall exceed [thirteen thousand five hundred kilograms 
(13,500kgs») TWELVE THOUSAND (12,OOOKGS) KILOGRAMS." 
SEC. 2. Repealing Clause. - All laws, executive issuances, and rules and regulation 
inconsistent with this Act are hereby repealed and modified accordingly. 
t 
SEC. 3. Effectivity ,Clause. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after ~ublication in 
at least (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
' 
Approved, 
1
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF TIlE PHILIPPINES ) 
First Regular Session 
) 
'13 
JUL 16 P 4 :54 
SENATE 
S. No. 809 
Introduced by Senator Antonio "Sonny" F, Trillanes [V 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The involvement of certain members of law enforcement agencies in criminal activities has 
greatly diminished our faith and confidence to these people in government. Almost everyday we 
hear, read, or see in media the involvement of some of our law enforcers in petty crimes to 
alleged attempt to cover-up heinous crimes. 
There seems now a need to address the growing fear and distrust among Our people to some of 
these "villains" in uniform by treating those persons in authority who cause or order the 
destruction or conccalment of evidence to a crime as accomplices to the crime. 
This proposed measure seeks to amend Article 19 of the Revised Penal Code by prescribing a 
higher penalty for persons in authority as accessories who directly cause or order the destruction 
or concealment of vital evidence fOf heinous crimes. 
In view of the foregoing, immediate approval of this measure is earnestly sought. 
Senator 


SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES ) 
First Regular Session 
) 
'13 
JUl 16 P 4 :54 
SENATE 
S. No. 809 
Introduced by Senator Antonio "Sonny" F. Triiianes IV 
AN ACT 
PRESCRIBING A HIGHER PENALTY FOR PERSONS IN AUTHORITY AS 
ACCESSORIES, WHO DIRECTLY CAUSE OR ORt,)ER THE DESTRUCTION OR 
CONCEALMENT OF VITAL EVIDENCE FOR HEINOUS CRIMES, AMENDING FOR 
THE PURPOSE ARTICLE 19 OF THE REVISED PENAL CODE 
Be it enacted hy the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
assembled: 
1 
SECTION 1. Article 19 of the Penal Code is hereby amended by adding another 
2 
paragraph: 
3 
"WHERE THE OFFENSE IS A HEINOUS CRIME UNDER EXISTING LAWS AND 
4 
IS COMMITTED BY PERSONS IN AUTHORITY, THEY SHALL SUFFER THE PENALTY 
5 
ONE 
DEGREE 
HIGHER 
THAN 
THAT 
PRESCRIBED 
BY 
LAW 
FOR 
THE 
6 
CONSUMMATED FELONY" 
7 
8 
SEC. 2. Separability Clause. - If any provision or part thereof, is held invalid or 
9 
unconstitutional, the remainder of the law or the provision not otherwise affected shall remain 
10 
valid and subsisting. 
11 
12 
SEC. 3. Repealing Clause. - Any law, presidential decree or issuance, executive order, 
13 
letter of instruction, administrative order, rule or regulation contrary to, or inconsistent with the 
14 
provisions ofthis Act is hereby repealed, modified or amended accordingly. 
1 


Sec. 4. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its 
2 
publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved, 
2
.. 
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Sessiou 
) 
SENATE 
S.B. NO. 225 
Introdnced by Senator Maria Lonrdes Nancy S. Binay 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Celebrating events through the use of fireworks and firecrackers has long been a customary 
practice in the Philippines. 
Considering the risk involved, the proposed bill seeks to reduce the number of accidents and 
injuries due to firecrackers, majority of which are sustained by children, by prohibiting the 
selling, giving, or in any way sharing of firecrackers. 
In view of the foregoing, the passage ofthis bill is earnestly recommended. 
~~M~U" /AII~~ 
Senator 


I 
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
SENATE 
S.B.No.~25 
Introduced by Senator Maria Lourdes Nancy S. Binay 
1 
AN ACT PENALIZING INDIVIDUALS WHO SELL, GIVE OR IN ANY 
2 
WAY SHARE ANY TYPE OF FIREWORKS OR FIRECRACKERS TO 
3 
MINOR CHILDREN 15 YEARS OLD AND BELOW 
4 
5 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
6 
assembled: 
7 
8 
SECTION 1. Unlawfol Act. It shall be unlawful for persons to sell, give or in any way share 
9 
any type of fireworks or firecrackers to children fifteen (15) years of age and below. 
10 
11 
SECTION 2. Penalty. Any person found guilty of the act stated herein shall be punished 
12 
with imprisonment of prision correctional or a fine not less than Fifty Thousand Pesos 
13 
(P50,OOO.OO) but not exceeding Two Hundred Fifty Thousand Pesos (P250,OOO.OO), or both, 
14 
at the discretion of the Court. 
15 
16 
SECTION 3. Repealing Clause. All laws, presidential decrees, executive orders, rules and 
17 
regulations or parts thereof which are deemed inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are 
18 
hereby repealed, amended or modified accordingly .. 
19 
20 
SECTION 4. Separability Clause. If any provision or part of this Act, or the application 
21 
thereof to any person or circumstance be held unconstitutional or be invalid, such parts not 
22 
affected thereby shall remain in ful['force and effect. 
23 
24 
SECTION 5. Effictivity Clause. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days following its full 
25 
and complete publication in the Official Gazette or in at least two (2) newspapers of general 
26 
circulation. 
Approved,
Sixteenth Congress of the 
Republic of the Philippines 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S.B. No. 949 
,~emd~ 
) a,)th: r I' f HIt: ~,L'n: rtl1f \l 
'1'3 
JUl. 18 P5 :54 
Introduced by HON. RAMON BONG REVILLA, JR. 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
When Republic Act 8187 was enacted, the primary consideration of the 
framers of this law is to enable the husband to effectively render support, care and 
assistance to the wife in her period of recovery and/or in the nursing of the newly 
born child. 
However, RA 8187 limits the entitlement of this law to the first four 
deliveries of the wife. This bill seeks to amend the existing law by repealing said 
provision and thus, allowing the husband to avail of the said benefit in all the 
deliveries of the wife. This is in recognition to the vital role of the husband in 
assisting the wife during her post-delivery condition. Moreover, it is just logical 
that if there are more children the couple begot, the wife needs more the helping 
hand of the husband to take care and look out to the other children. 
Approval ofthis bill is earnestly recommended. 
~~ 
REVJLLA,JR. 


Sixteenth Congress ofthe 
Republic of the Philippines 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S.B. No. 949 
'13 
JUL 18 P5 :'54 
Introduced by HON. RAMON BONG REVILLA, JR. 
AN ACT 
AMENDING SECTION 2 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8187, 
OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE "P ATERNITY LEAVE ACT OF 1996" 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines 
in Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Section 2 of RepubJic Act No. 8187, otherwise known as the 
Paternity Leave Act of 1996 is hereby amended to read as follows: 
"Section 2. Notwithstanding any law, rules and regulations to 
the contrary, every married male employee in the private and public 
sectors shall be entitled to a paternity leave of seven (7) days with 
full pay for the [first four (4) deliveries] DELIVERY ofthe 
legitimate spouse with whom he is cohabiting. The male employee 
applying for paternity leave shall notifY his employer of the 
pregnancy of his legitimate spouse and the expected date of such 
delivery. 
For purposes, of this Act, delivery shall include childbirth or any 
miscarriage. 
SEC. 2. Separability Clause - If for any reason any section or provision of 
this Act is declared unconstitutional, other provisions hereof which are not 
effected thereby shall continue to be in full force and effect. 
SEC. 3. Repealing Clause. - Any laws, decrees, or rules and regulations 
which are inconsistent with or contrary. to the provisions of this Act are hereby 
amended or repealed. 
SEC. 4. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect upon its publication 
in at least two (2) national newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S. B.No. 
's'liflll t Ii' 
<*ffl;" of Hl~ :;'~'I'\":t"it!lfg. 
'13 
JUL 10 A9 :23 
710 
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G, ESCUDERO 
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 have needs of skills updating and professional 
advancement of their personnel in order that services rendered at the department will 
be restructured and modernized yet perpetual. This meaSlJ.re 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 


SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S. B.No. 710 
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 
AN ACT 
'13 
JUL 10 A9 :23 
LOWERING THE RETIREMENT AGE OF EMPLOYEES OF THE DEPARTMENT 
OF EDUCATION FROM 65 YEARS OLD TO 60 YEARS OLD 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
1 
SECTION 1. Short Title - This Act shall be known as the "New DepEd Retirement 
2 
Age Act". 
3 
4 
SEC. 2. Compulsory Retirement Age - The compulsory retirement age for all 
5 
Department of Education teachers and non-teaching school personnel shall be upon the 
6 
attainment of the age of sixty (60). If an employee has less than 15 years of service, he 
7 
may be allowed to continue in the service until he reaches the age of sixty-five (65) in 
8 
accordance with existing civil service and Government Service Insurance Service (GSIS) 
9 
rules and regulations. 
10 
11 
SEC. 3. Repealing Clause - All laws, executive orders, rules and regulations, and 
12 
other issuances or parts thereof, which are contrary or inconsistent with this Act are 
13 
hereby repealed or modified accordingly. 
14 
15 
SEC. 4. Effectively Clause - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its 
16 
publication in the Official Gazette or in at least two (2) newspapers of general 
17 
circulation. 
18 
19 
Approved,
, . 
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No, 7 7 7 
) 
) 
) 
i>l'lmtl' 
. ,(1HI;r- of 111~ _)"(1·tt.tH~ 
'13 
JUL 15 ['6 :27 
RL"'!"''''''' pv Y 
,c,', ,~,.,., ":lr 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
It is a matter of public knowledge that our housing program has not been 
adequate as would optimally address the issue of shelter for our growing 
population notwithstanding the incentives already allowed under existing laws 
and rules and regulations. The first indication of this inadequacy is the sharp 
increase in the price of real estates particularly those located in heavily populated 
urban areas like Metre Manila. The economic adjustments have put the bare 
costs of purchasing a piece of land and building a house beyond the reach of 
many. 
On top of these, calamities have visited our country with the end effect of 
depriving those who have houses and dwelling places. 
In view of the foregoing, it has become necessary for the government to 
grant more incentives to developers, owners and builders of residential buildings 
and housing projects. This bill proposes to exempt them from the payment of real 
estate taxes while the construction is in progress up to the time of the completion 
of said residential buildings and housing projects. The probable loss of revenues 
arising from the approval of this bill is more than compensated by the 
encouragement it gives to those who would contribute to the availability of more 
dwelling places. 
Senator 


SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 77'7 
) 
) 
) 
St'!1ilir' 
(fglf!;" of tt;f' ~:I'l·l·i'f.1lr~ 
']3 
JUL 15 P 6 :27 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITOESTRADA 
AN ACT 
PROVIDING TAX INCENTIVES TO DEVELOPERS AND BUILDERS OF 
RESIDENTIAL BUILDING ANDIOR HOUSING PROJECTS BY EXEMPTING 
THEM FROM THE PAYMENT OF REAL ESTATE TAXES, DEFINING THE 
CONDITION THEREOF AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES 
Be if enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Declaration of Policy. - It is hereby declared to be the 
national policy to encourage the development and construction of residential 
buildings and housing projects as means of realizing the objectives of the 
national shelter program of the government. 
SEC. 2. Exemption from Real Estate Taxes. - Any provision of law, 
decree, 
executive order, 
and 
rules 
and 
regulations to 
the 
contrary 
notwithstanding, ali developers, owner andlor builders of residential buildings and 
housing projects shall be exempted from the payment of real estate taxes 
imposable on said residential or housing projects while the construction is in 
progress and until their completion. The said privilege may also be availed of by 
any person owning a unit in said residential buildings or housing projects. 
SEC. 3. Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its 
publication in two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S.B.No. 
hltroduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
j,rnuh.> 
(I}!f.:. "I tit' ~'fT,ta.¥ 
'13 
JUL -1 
P 1 :43 
This bill absolutely decriminalizes the crime of libel as defined and penalized in 
Article 355 of the Revised Penal Code. 
The rationale for this proposal is to accord greater protection to freedom of speech 
and expression specifically those done by means of writing and other similar means by 
taking away the threat or fear of incarceration, restraint of liberty and even fine. 
It is likewise submitted that a strong print media could give great service to the 
Filipino people in providing an effective mechanism of complete and fearless 
transparency over the excesses of government in the exercise of its powers and 
prerogatives. 
Immediate passage of this bill is thus earnestly sought. 
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 


SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S. B. No. j '27 
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO 
AN ACT 
Stuntr 
tl)fh;r l1f Hle :f.rn:f"htt~ 
'13 JUL-l Pl :43 
DECRIMINALIZING LIBEL BY MEANS OF WRITING OR SIMILAR 
REPEALING ARTICLE 355 OF THE REVISED PENAL CODE 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Republic of the 
Philippines in Congress assembled: 
1 
SECTION 1. Article 355 of the Revised Penal Code is hereby completely repealed 
2 
thereby decriminalizing libel committed by means of writing, printing, lithography, 
3 
engraving, radio, phonograph, painting, theatrical exhibition, cinematographic exhibition, 
4 
or any similar means. 
5 
6 
SEC. 2. All laws, executive orders, decrees, instructions, rules and regulations 
7 
contrary or inconsistent with the provision of this Act are hereby repealed or modified 
8 
accordingly. 
9 
10 
SEC. 3, This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its complete publication 
11 
in the Official Gazette or in at least two (2) national newspaper of general circulation 
12 
whichever comes first. 
13 
14 
Approved, 
15 
1
Republic of the Philippines 
SENATE 
OFFICE OF SENATOR RAMON BONG REVILLA, JR. 
13 August 2013 
MS. MA. ANTONIETTE ARISTOZA 
Service Chief 
Legislative Bills and Index Service 
Senate of the Philippines 
Pasay City 
Dear Ms. Aristoza: 
'13 
i\IlG 13 
HECi 
May I respectfully request that 581014 and 58960 which were filed by 
Senator Ramon Bong Revilla, Jr. this congress be withdrawn from the list 
of bills calendared for consideration this current congress. 
Thank you very much and best regards. 
Very truly yours, 
, 
RE~~GELIA.ALEJAR 
Chief of Staff 
Rm. 506, Philippine Senate, GSIS Bldg., Financial Center, Pasay City 1307, NCR, Philippines 
Telephone +632 5526776 
+63 2 5526601 ext. 5521 
Fax +63 2 5526698 
www.ramonbongrevillajr.com