bettergovph/raw-philippine-data huggingface dataset:
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
]
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
]
First Regular Session 
]
SENATE
S.B. No. 989
i ?  
i.* <1 * ^  * I
' 
*glf»reof
/ V '  ;
'16 AUG-8 P1:35
in
In tro d u ced  by SEN. WIN GATCHALIAN
AN ACT
MANDATING THE CREATION OF A SCHOOL DISASTER MANAGEMENT 
COMMITTEE TO CONDUCT SAFETY DRILLS FOR EMERGENCY SITUATIONS IN
ALL SCHOOLS
EXPLANATORY NOTE
»■ r
The occurrence of natural or hum an-induced disasters do not give u s 
w arnings nor the time to make quick judgm ents. Because of their age and 
vulnerability, children m ost likely, will be helpless a n d , susceptible to panic and 
despair. Their response may be inadequate to prepare diem  for the eventuality of 
catastrophic events. To equip them  to better understand the occurrence of these 
events and empower them  with the knowledge to guide their response, this bill is 
proposing for the creation of a school-based disaster m anagem ent committee th at 
will develop a disaster m anagem ent plan in coordination with the Local D isaster Risk
Reduction and M anagem ent Council, public order and safety offices and the law 
enforcem ent agencies.
Notable provisions in the Republic Act No. 10121, also known as the 
Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010” are the following:
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
ritr
(ISUut ..f l1:/'
ijcv“
•16 JUL19 A10*4 3
S E N A T E
443
Ki;* l J V I  I) l'.V;
S. B. No.
Introduced by SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA
AN ACT DECLARING THE MUNICIPALITY OF TALAINGOD, DAVAO DEL 
NORTE AS AN ECO-CULTURAL TOURISM ZONE ESTABLISHING FOR THE 
PURPOSE THE TALAINGOD CULTURAL HERITAGE VILLAGE, PROVIDING 
FOR ITS DEVELOPMENT AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR
Explanatory Note
With an estimated population of 26,000 people, the municipality of Talaingod in the 
province of Davao del Norte serves as the home of the Ata Manobos, who safeguard 
one of the last remaining tropical rainforests in the country along the Pantaron Range. 
Aside from being stewards of the environment, the Ata Manobos lead in die 
preservation of their cultural heritage through their craftsmanship, which includes the 
creation of liyang baskets made from the wild bamboo grass called bagtok and beaded 
necklaces, anklets and bracelets with the unique Ata Manobo pattern.
In recognition of the unique position of Talaingod as an environmental and cultural 
center, this measure seeks to declare Talaingod as an eco-cultural tourism zone and to 
establish a cultural heritage village to conserve and promote the rich and distinctive 
customs and traditions of indigenous peoples living there. With the adoption of an 
eco-cultural tourism zone, the highly diverse and rich culture of the indigenous peoples 
in Talaingod such as those of the Ata Manobo will be protected and preserved.
In view of the foregoing, the immediate passage of this bill is sought.
LOREN LEGARDA
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
t 
' I'u ■ 
rr--.  I
Jill ir* * 
:12
SENATE
S. No. 460
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
PROVIDING 
INCENTIVES 
FOR 
THE 
MANUFACTURE, 
ASSEMBLY, 
CONVERSION AND IMPORTATION OF ELECTRONIC, HYBRID AND OTHER 
ALTERNATIVE FUEL VEHICLES, FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Frequent adjustment of oil prices is not new to us. Department of Energy reported that most 
of the oil companies implemented price adjustments which resulted to a year-to-date net 
increase of P1.30/liter for gasoline and P0.58/liter for diesel. Admittedly, a lot has to be done 
to be able to cope with the current problems brought about by high prices of gasoline. This 
leads us to the fact that energy-efficiency measures are very mush significant today, given the 
fluctuating prices of gasoline in the country. Specifically, one solution to the worsening issue 
of frequently increase in gasoline prices has come about with the development of the so 
called “hybrid cars”.
This bill aims to promote the widespread use of hybrid and vehicles using alternative fuels in 
the country and, thus, lessen our dependence on imported oil.
The measure, among others, seeks to:
• 
Protect the environment by mitigating the hannful effects of carbon emissions into the 
atmosphere;
• 
Exempt from the payment of value-added tax for nine years the importation of raw 
materials, spare parts, components and capital equipment used in the manufacture or 
assembly of electric, hybrid and other alternative fuel vehicles’
• 
Include non-fiscal incentives geared mainly for users, including priority in registration 
and franchise application for public utility vehicles; exemption from number coding 
schemes; and free parking in new buildings.
In view of the foregoing, the immediate passage of this bill is earnestly requested.
ANTONICy^^NNY” F. TRILLANES IV
• 
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
* 
of t(|Pi>.-,rrl:,, ,
■16 JUL 21 
All :06
S. B. No
S E N A T E
762
l< 1 < 
i 
■ f» Y ;
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT AMENDING
SECTION 47 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9136, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS 
THE ELECTRIC POWER INDUSTRY REFORM ACT
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Republic Act 9136, otherwise known as the Electric Power Industry Reform Act 
(EPIRA) realized the liberalization and privatization of the power industry to promote 
greater competition and efficiency in the sector. It was hoped that the reformed 
business environment shall result in better service thru improved delivery of supply 
and lower power rates for the consumer.
However, in more than a decade after the law's enactment, higher electricity 
rates (estimated as one of the highest in Asia) and power outages, especially in 
Mindanao, have become a burden. It is apparent that the EPIRA was not able to provide 
the promised reform to ensure long term security of power supply and the benefits of 
liberalization such as lower prices.
EPIRA was intended to be the solution to the country's electricity problems. 
Instead, it has caused the government to lose control of the power industry, allowing 
private businesses to raise power rates with impunity.
Unless the EPIRA is amended, it will be difficult - if at all possible - to maintain 
control of the power industry to the government in order to temper the profit-oriented 
practices in the power industry.
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
SEVENTEETH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
FIRST REGULAR SESSION 
)
< ? lfir6 of tl|s,i>  . r. ri-u j;
■16
!l-26 A 9:56
SENATE
SENATE BILL NO. 900
INTRODUCED BY SENATOR JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO
AN ACT
PROVIDING TELECOMMUNICATIONS SYSTEMS ACCESSIBILITY TO THE 
HEARING-IMPAIRED AND SPEECH-IMPAIRED
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The State recognizes the importance of the disabled sector. Pursuant to this 
mandate, it established the National Commission for Disabled Persons to ensure that 
the rights of the handicapped are protected, and that all programs and services are 
universal and accessible to all segments of society.
Although modem technology has created devices to cater to the special needs 
of handicapped persons, they still need assistance with communication facilities for 
the hearing-impaired and speech-impaired.
This proposed measure seeks to make the national telecommimication system 
available to the hearing-impaired and speech-impaired.
The early passage of this proposed measure is highly recommended.
JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO
1.3
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
-J
f
•16 
AUG -1 
All -27
SENATE
s.No. 926
nn
T’Y:
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto
AN ACT
ESTABLISHING LESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL, AND TRANSGENDER (LBGT) 
HELP AND PROTECTION DESKS IN ALL PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE 
STATIONS NATIONWIDE, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE TITLE VII OF 
REPUBLIC ACT NUMBER 8551, AS AMENDED, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE 
“PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE REFORM AND REORGANIZATION ACT OF 
1998,” AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
Explanatory Note
Section 11 Article 11 of the 1987 Constitution mandates the State to value the dignity of 
every human person and guarantee full respect for human riglits. Such commitment to human 
rights has been upheld through signing and acceding to a number of significant international 
treaties concerning human rights1.
Yet despite this commitment, the Philippines has yet to affirm the rights of Lesbian, Gay, 
Bisexual and Transgender individuals (LGBT) or guarantee the proteetion of LGBTs from 
discrimination and violence on the account of gender identity and expression. The Philippines 
did not express support for the United Nations Human Rights Council joint statements made in 
December 2006 and March 2011 which called on States to take steps to end acts of violence, 
criminal sanctions and related human riglits violations committed against individuals because of 
their sexual orientation or gender identity, among others2.
Back home, many LGBTs became moving targets for discrimination and violence that 
affect their economic, social and physiological well-being. Yet in spite of this reality, there is an 
absence of govermnent mechanism or intervention directed to monitor, let alone address, the 
incidents of discrimination, prejudice and even violence against the Filipino LGBT community. 
Because of this, many LGBT victims opt not to report the incident for fear of further harassment, 
prejudicial treatment, or more violent reprisal.
These international treaties and conventions include the following; International Convention on the Elimination of 
All Forms of Racial Discrimination of 1969, International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights of 1976, 
International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights of 1976, Convention on the Elimination of All 
Forms of Discrimination against Women of 1981, Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or 
Degrading Treatment or Punishment of 1987, Convention on the Rights of the Child of 1990, International 
Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of their Families of 2003 and 
Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities of 2008.
United Nations’ Human Rights Council. (2006 December 1). Joint Statement on Human Rights Violations Based 
on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity. Geneva; Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human 
Rights.
United Nations’ Human Rights Council. (2011 March 22). Joint Statement Ending Acts of Violence and Related 
Human Rights Violations Based on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity. Geneva; Office of the United Nations 
High Commissioner for Human Rights.
Page 1 of2
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session
S E N A T E
s.B. 345
a
BILLS
Introduced by Senator Poe
AN ACT
INSTITUTIONALIZING THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE GOVERNMENT 
INTERNSHIP PROGRAM, PROVIDING FUNDS FOR ITS IMPLEMENTATION 
AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
Explanatory Note
The 1987 Philippine Constitution is explicit in affirming the protection to labor and 
equal employment opportunities for all, to wit;
• 
Article II, Section 18; “The State affirms labor as a primary social economic force. It 
shall protect the rights of workers and promote their welfare.”
• 
Article XIII, Section 3; “The State shall afford full protection to labor, local and 
overseas, organized and unorganized, and promote full employment and equality of 
employment opportunities for all.
It shall guarantee the rights of all workers to self-organization, collective bargaining 
and negotiations, and peaceful concerted activities, including the right to strike in 
accordance with law. They shall be entitled to security of tenure, humane conditions 
of work, and a living wage. They shall also participate in policy and decision-making 
processes affecting their rights and benefits as may be provided by law.
The State shall promote the principle of shared responsibility between workers and 
employers and the preferential use of voluntary modes in settling disputes, including
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S.B. No. 
703
cnalT
*16 JUL 20 P4:36
RFC’KfV i 
PY:
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A, Aquino IV
AN ACT
PROVIDING EMERGENCY WAREHOUSES IN AREAS DEVASTATED BY CALAMITIES 
TO ENSURE AFFECTED CONSUMERS ACCESS TO BASIC NECESSITIES AND PRIME 
COMMODITIES AT DISCOUNTED AND TAX FREE PRICES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
In the past few years, the country has been battered by more than twenty 
typhoons a year, with an increasing number in the super-typhoon category.
As super-typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) hit Eastern Visayas, particularly Leyte, last 
year, Filipinos who were seriously affected needed to contend with an 
insurmountable shortage of food, clean water, medicine and first aid, and clothing to 
weather the storm. Supplies weren't able to reach the survivors immediately due to 
wrecked ports, airports and roads.
Thus, it is important that every community in the country be equipped and 
prepared for disasters, and make relief and basic goods as accessible as possible. 
The first few days after storms or earthquakes hit are crucial in mitigating further 
tragedies to individuals and families.
Hence, the establishment of community disaster warehouses aims to extend 
assistance to survivors of calamities, natural or man-made, by ensuring access to 
basic goods and prime commodities.
It intends for goods sold in these warehouses to be tax-exempt, and ensure 
that goods in the market would be available to avoid hoarding in affected areas. 
Furthermore, it seeks to protect citizens from price manipulation during times of 
crisis.
This intervention is important for the days and weeks right after the calamity 
to enable people and communities to start rebuilding and normalizing their lives.
Equipping communities with proper mechanism to assist its people during 
adversity is empowering and inclusive towards a nation that works for all.
s
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s. No. 
270
BILLS & INDEX
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto
AN ACT
INCREASING THE 
THRESHOLD 
FOR 
CERTAIN 
NON-VAT 
TAXPAYERS, 
AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SECTIONS 109 AND 236 OF THE NATIONAL 
INTERNAL REVENUE CODE OF 1997, AS AMENDED
Explanatory Note
The contribution of Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) to the country's economic 
development cannot be overemphasized. In terms of employment, MSEs generated 4.36 million 
jobs or roughly 55.9% of total jobs generated by all types of business establishments created in 
2014, i.e. 2.37 million jobs in micro and 1.98 million in small enterprises1. Moreover, industries 
falling under these categories propel economic growth by promoting development in the rural 
areas, thereby bringing in employment opportunities, decentralizing economic activities and 
redistributing wealth throughout the country.
Complicated business regulations and rigorous accounting and reporting requirements 
prescribed by the National Internal Revenue Code (NIRC) stifle the growth of micro and small 
enterprises (MSEs). Under Section 236 of the NIRC, any person who exceeds or expects to exceed 
his annual gross sales or receipts by One Million Five Hundred Thousand Pesos (PI,500,000) are 
mandated to register for Value-Added Tax (VAT). At the same time. Section 109 of the same Code 
provides that transactions of goods and services that do not exceed the amount of One Million Five 
Hundred Thousand Pesos (PI,500,000) are exempted from VAT.
The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) issued Revenue Regulation No. 16-2011, which 
adjusted the VAT threshold amount from One Million Five Hundred Thousand Pesos (PI ,500,000) 
to One Million Nine Hundred Nineteen Thousand Five Hundred Pesos (PI,919,500) using the 
Consumer Price Index (CPI). Entities falling below the threshold are mandated instead to pay the 
3% percentage tax. A number of MSEs still find themselves administratively incapable of 
complying with the rigorous requirements mandated by the NIRC. The lower percentage tax rate 
of 3% compared to the 12% VAT presents an opportunity for underdeclaration of sales or receipts 
to avoid VAT coverage.
Aside from the national taxes they have to pay, MSEs must also bear the cost of business 
taxes to local government units (LGUs). The local levy varies according to the type of business, 
and the amount of gross sales or receipts. Again, this becomes an avenue for tax evasion and other 
corrupt practices such as misdeclaration of sales, bribery or connivance with the taxing authority.
In the 2016 Doing Business Report of the World Bank Group, the Philippines fared low 
and ranked 165th out of 189 economies in terms of starting a business in the country, and 126th in 
terms of businesses paying taxes. Among the factors considered in measuring the ranking were all 
the procedures officially required or commonly done in practice by an entrepreneur to start up and
1 2014 MSME Statistics, DTI. Source: http://www.dti.gov.ph/dti/index.php/resources/sme-resources/sme-statistics (Accessed on 
21 June 2016)
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF TH E 
]
REPUBLIC OF TH E PHILIPPINES 
]
First Regular Session 
]
SENATE
S.B. No.
207
B ILLS  &
In tro d u c e d  by SEN. SHERWIN T. GATCHALIAN
AN ACT
EXPANDING THE PURPOSE AND APPLICATION OF TH E SPECIAL 
EDUCATION FUND (SEF), AMENDING FO R TH E PURPOSE SECTION 2 7 2  
OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7 1 6 0 , OTHERW ISE KNOWN AS TH E “LOCAL 
GOVERNMENT CODE O F 1 9 9 1 ”
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This bill seeks to expand the application of the proceeds of the 
additional one percent (1%) Special Education Fund (SEF) tax as provided 
in Republic Act No. 7160, otherwise known as the “Local Government Code 
of 1991."
The Local Government Code of 1991 has been enacted 23 years ago, 
thus, some of the provisions are no longer responsive to the needs of the 
times. The Special Education Fund (SEF) of local governm ent units (LGUs) 
has been a source of funds for the num erous requests for financial 
support received by the LGUs from the different schools in their respective 
jurisdiction. Under RA 7160, the law enum erated, hence, it limited the 
scope and application by which the SEF can be allocated for, hence, other 
worthwhile endeavors have not been acted upon or rem ain to be funded, 
to the detrim ent of our constituents.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
SENATE 
S.B. No. 670
iSl
of fljt^P rrpfatij
'16 JUL 20 P3-.19
RFC! iV 
1 n v
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT
CLASSIFYING THE SALE OF ELECTRICITY BY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION AND 
DISTRIBUTION COMPANIES AND ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES, AND THE SERVICES OF 
FRANCHISE GRANTEES OF ELECTRIC UTILITIES, AND SALE OR IMPORTATION OF 
MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT DIRECTLY USED IN GENERATION, TRANSMISSION, AND 
DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRICITY AS VALUE-ADDED TAX EXEMPT TRANSACTIONS, 
AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE, SECTIONS 108 (A) (ii) AND 109 (1) OF THE NATIONAL 
INTERNAL REVENUE CODE, AS AMENDED BY REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9337, AND FOR OTHER
PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The cost of electricity rose once again in February this year, owing to higher power 
supply agreements as Filipinos braced themselves for the summer months when electric 
bills normally skyrocket. The Philippines has one of the most expensive electricity costs in 
Southeast Asia, having the third highest tariffs for residential electricity whereas our 
neighbors' electrical distribution is heavily subsidized by their governments.
High power rates are debilitating to the average household or business that already 
struggle to cover the costs of many other necessities such as water, gas, and of increasing 
necessity nowadays, internet.
This bill seeks to amend the National Internal Revenue Code of 1997, as amended, 
by removing Value Added Tax from the sale of electricity, at all stages: generation, 
transmission, and distribution, by all electric companies and cooperatives.
A tax relief on electricity will result in a significant gain in disposable income for 
Filipino families, as well as for businesses who benefit from lower operating costs and more 
profit left for expansion and investment. VAT-exempt electricity will surely light up many 
more Filipino's lives.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
SENATJ 
S.B. No. 353
BILLS & IfWCX
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE INSTALLATION OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS 
INFRASTRUCTURE AS PART OF THE CONSTRUCTION OF STRATEGIC NATIONAL ROADS AND
HIGHWAYS, APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREOF AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
As our island nation continues to build roads that connect communities and expand 
logistics, we also have an opportunity to improve our information and communications 
technology (ICT) and boost access to the information superhighway.
Imagine working CCTV cameras at every corner, roads designed with fiber optic 
cables and electrical networks beneath them, and stop signs that radiate mobile data 
signals.
No longer relegated to the pages of a sci-fi novel or the screening of a futuristic 
movie, this level of design and technology is in the here and now, readily available for our 
utilization. Why not take advantage of today's technology and design infrastructure to 
deliver as many services as it can to our citizens?
The Shared Infrastructure for ICT Bill encourages us to rethink and maximize our 
infrastructure projects to include features that advance our ICT.
This measure pushes for the inclusion on shared utility corridors for fiber optic 
cables in road networks in the hopes of improving connectivity and increasing competition 
for Internet service providers while generating additional revenue for the government.
Let's make the most of our infrastructure projects and endeavor to provide quick, 
quality access to ICT services to every Filipino.
In view of the foregoing, the approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
CL^{m
Senator Paolo Benigno "BaJm" A. Aquino IV
t
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
)
THE REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E
414
S.B. NO.
•16 JUL 19 AlOni
KK('FIVKl) ItY;
In tro d u ced  by SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA
AN ACT ESTABLISHING RESOURCE CENTERS FOR INDIGENOUS PEOPLES 
TO ENHANCE AND 
ENSURE DELIVERY OF ESSENTIAL SERVICES, 
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
Explanatory Note
R.A. 8371, otherwise known as the ‘Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA), was 
enacted into law in 1997 to give effect to the constitutional recognition and 
cognizance to the estim ated 12 to 15 million Indigenous C ultural Com munities 
(ICCs)/Indigenous Peoples (IPs) present in 65 of the 78 provinces in the 
country. 
Said law provides for the creation of the National Commission on 
Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) as its im plementing agency. Eventually, various 
national, regional, grassroots and non-governm ent organizations/netw orks 
were established, all geared towards their recognition, prom otion and well­
being. Likewise, num erous international treaties, conventions and declarations 
with similar objectives were entered into by the government.
Despite concerted efforts exerted by the government, in partnership with 
various 
private 
organizations 
and 
adequate 
financial 
support 
from 
international com m unities, still they rem ain the poorest and marginalized 
sectors of our society. Basic services rem ain w anting in m ost geographically 
isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs). Further, the reported serious 
hum an rights violations, displacem ent from their ancestral dom ain and 
destruction of their natural environm ent and cultural values, calls for an 
immediate and drastic m easures to address the same.
There is a need to establish Resource Centers in all ICCs/IPs, which are 
ethnographically located, gender and rights based, as may be determ ined by 
the NCIP. The centers shall serve as access centers to enhance deliveiy of 
basic, social, technical and legal services.
In view of the foregoing, early passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
LOREIf LEGARDA
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
SENATE^
S B. No 
365
iif i TIME:
BILLS & INI
Introduced by Senator Maria Lourdes Nancy S. Binay
AN ACT DIRECTING ESTABLISMENTS TO SUPPORT THE INSTITUTION OF CHILD 
CARE FACILITIES AND GRANTING INCENTIVES THEREFOR
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The State recognizes the Filipino family as the foundation of the nation. Accordingly, it shall 
strengthen its solidarity and actively promote its total development.1 Further, the State shall 
defend the right of children to assistance, including proper care and nutrition, and special 
protection from all forms of neglect, abuse, cruelty, exploitation, and other conditions 
prejudicial to their development2.
Early childhood is the most formative and crucial stage in a person’s development. Exploration 
and discovery, through activity and perseverance, are venues for development which must be 
nurtured not only through homes, but also through the community, recognizing both as 
important continuing contexts within which a person’s development occurs and progresses.
The objectives of the proposed Employers Child Care Centers Act of 2016 is to promote the 
rights of children to survival, development and special protection; to support parents in their 
roles as primary providers and caregivers and as their children's first teachers; and to ensure 
that parents are provided with the adequate facilities and opportunities to properly rear their 
children and support their basic needs.
The participation and collective efforts of the private and public sectors are vital to the 
realization of these objectives. Thus, private and public establishments are directed to provide 
child care facilities for the children of their respective employees. Further, the penal clause 
imposes significant fines which may be used to support barangays with inadequate funds to 
establish and operate their own day care centers.
In view of the foregoing, the immediate passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
MARIA LOU
NANCY S. BINAY
1 The 1987 Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines, Art. XV, Sec. 1.
2 The 1987 Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines, Art. XV, Sec. 3, par. (2).
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
of t i i . f H
■16 .11120 P4«6
SENATE
S.B. No. 
691
R VCA
"’ V :
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT
AMENDING SECTION 150 OF REPUBLIC ACT 8424, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE NATIONAL
INTERNAL REVENUE CODE, AS AMENDED
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Whether young or old, ingrained in the Filipino psyche and in our daily hygiene is the 
use of baby cologne.
In a survey of Filipino consumers, baby colognes ranked second only to shampoo in 
regular usage, placing it above powder, lotion, and hand sanitizers.1
Further, 98% of the splash cologne consumers are from the economic classes C, D, 
and E with Class D taking up 54% of the market share.7
This Act aims to recognize splash cologne as an essential good, setting it apart from 
perfumes and other luxury fragrances by ascertaining the concentration of the essential oils 
or perfume in the product.
The proposed amendment is in line with the legal definition already set by Revenue 
Regulations No. 8 to 84.3
By aligning and streamlining the definition for baby cologne or "toilet water" and 
recognizing such as an essential good and taxing them accordingly, we will be able to 
protect our low-income households from unnecessary surges in prices of their inexpensive, 
but fragrant cologne, and at the same time, provide appropriate support to the baby 
cologne industry.
' CCIP Lcgi.sliUive Position Paper; Page 7. Source: Myriad Tracking 2012.
■ CCTP Legi.slalive Position Paper: Page (1. Source: Adult USA 
(TTP Legislative Position I’aper: Page 
Source: Revenne Regulations No. 8-84. 1977Tax Code, Section tP4.
^
 
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I f 
PI
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
F irst Regular Session 
)
'56 
lip 
1 9  
I ’ 7 : 4 0
SENATE
s. No. 
5 3 7
»<
■f
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
ESTABLISHING THE DIVISION OF PUBLIC SCHOOL ACCOUNTABILITY TO 
ADMINISTER ALL MONITORING AND COMPLIANCE ACTIVITIES DEALING 
WITH ACADEMIC ACCOUNTABILITY FOR EACH SCHOOL OR SCHOOL 
DISTRICT, AND TO REPORT ACADEMIC PROGRESS, AND FOR OTHER 
PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
It is in the interest of the people and the future of our nation that each student receives a high 
quality of education. Section I, Article XIV of the Constitution provides that the State shall 
protect and promote the right of all citizens to quality education at all levels, and shall take 
appropriate steps to make such education accessible to all. Further, Section (2)(1) of the same 
mandates that the State shall establish, maintain, and support a complete, adequate, and 
integrated system of education relevant to the needs of the people and the society. Thus, the 
improvement of public's access to public school performance indicators, and the benefits of the 
increasing public investment in the Philippines' schools is just but necessary, especially that most 
of the Filipino students are falling behind those in other countries.
This bill seeks to create the Division of Public School Accountability which shall administer all 
monitoring and compliance activities dealing with academic accountability for each school or 
school district and to report academic progress. The presence of such shall hold each of the 
country's public schools accountable for the academic progress of each student. Further, this 
proposed measure shall bring forth a comprehensive system to hold students, schools, and 
districts accountable for improving student perfonnance and measuring the academic 
achievements of all students. This, in the long run, shall ensure that each child in the Philippines 
shall receive a high quality education consistent with nationwide content and performance 
standards.
In view of the foregoing, the early passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
ANTONI
NNY” F. TRILLANES
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
F irst R egular Session 
)
( 9 f llf »  of 
p t ir j.
*16 JUL20 P4 '39
SENATE
S.B. No. _ 7 H 5 _
IU 'X \ 
,
A
T?Y: 1
In tro d u c e d  b y: S e n a to r P aolo B e n ig n o  "B a m " A . A q u in o  IV
AN  ACT REQUIRING ALL COLLEGES A N D  UNIVERSITIES TO PROVIDE 
SCHOLARSHIP GRANTS TO  AT LEAST FIVE PERCENT (5% ) OF THE STUDENT POPULATION 
W H O  ARE POOR BUT DESERVING STUDENTS, A N D  FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Rusty Quintana grew up as a street child in Cagayan De Oro, and was unable to finish 
elementary and high school, instead finishing his basic education through the Alternative 
Learning System (ALS) Program of the Department of Education. Through his hard work, 
perseverance and talents. Rusty obtained a scholarship at the prestigious Xavier University 
and obtained his degree last year.
Rusty represents the many Filipino students who despite their talent, intelligence 
and determination, are unable to pursue higher education due to a lack of funds.
This bill proposes that all colleges and universities be mandated to provide 
scholarships to at least 5% of their total student population who are unable to afford 
secondary education but are deserving of the support.
In this way, post-secondary education in any institution can be made accessible to all 
students regardless of their financial situation.
By enacting this bill, our nation will uphold Article XIV, Section 1 of the Constitution 
which provides that the State "protect and promote the right of all citizens to quality 
education" and "take appropriate steps to make education accessible to all."
This mandate will serve as an incentive for low-income families and students to 
strive for excellence in their studies, having a viable pathway to an excellent postsecondary 
education in any college institution. Filipinos across the nation will be empowered by this 
legislation which will ultimately serve as a key to rising out of poverty.
In view of the foregoing, the passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
S e n a to rT a o lo  B e n ig n o  f'B a m " A . A q u in o  IV
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF 
)
THE REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E  
S.B. NO. 
^ 5 0
d'of the
m
'RECEIVEDv
j i  M?oir
BILLS » /INDEX
In tro d u ced  by SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA
AN ACT PROVIDING FOR A MAGNA CARTA OF THE POOR
Explanatory Note
Despite the country's continued economic progress, majority of Filipinos 
continue to struggle on a daily basis according to the Philippine Statistics 
Authority (PSA). Fisher folk and farmers remain the most indigent among the 
nine basic sectors that include children, the self-employed, unpaid family 
workers and women. The PSA reported that in the first six months of 2013, the 
poverty incidence was estimated at 24.9 percent of the population while 
subsistence, which refers to the numbers of Filipinos living in extreme poverty, 
was at 10.7 percent.
This bill seeks to adopt an area-based, sectoral, and focused intervention to 
poverty alleviation. This bill will ensure that each citizen will rightfully receive 
the minimum basic needs through partnership between the government and its 
basic sectors. It shall institutionalize long-term strategies and solutions that 
will give the poor dignity and a better way of life.
Under this measure, the government will prioritize investments and anti­
poverty programs to enable the poor to take part in the country's growth and 
development. All departments, agencies and sectors of the government shall 
open its services to the poor. All government agencies shall be mandated to 
formulate its own National Poverty Reduction Plan (NPRP), which consists of all 
the sectoral and local poverty reduction plans of each barangay, municipality, 
city and province.
The National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC) with the assistance of the 
National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) shall be in charge of 
organizing these plans. The NEDA shall establish a system of classification of 
the beneficiaries of this program.
The poverty plan will be included in the national budget which will be reviewed 
by the Department of Budget and Management. The funding will come from 
various government programs including but not limited to the Pantawid 
Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) of 
the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Special Program 
for Employment of Students (SPES) and Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating 
Disadvantaged Workers (TUPAD) Project of the Department of Labor and 
Employment (DOLE), and Socialized housing programs of the National Housing
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S. No.
M2
DATE
INDEX
BILLS
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto
AN ACT
CONDONING 
UNPAID 
AMORTIZATIONS 
OF 
LANDS 
AWARDED 
TO 
COMPREHENSIVE AGRARIAN REFORM BENEFICIARIES AND FOR OTHER 
PURPOSES
Explanatory Note
Financing the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) is one of the major 
challenges in implementing land refonn in the country. Apart from meager appropriations for 
agrarian refonn support services, the program also suffers from low repayment rates from 
agrarian reform beneficiaries. The Senate Economic Planning Office (SEPO) estimated that from 
1987 to 2004, only P2.5 billion of the projected P14.3 billion collectible land amortization 
payments was actually collected1. A Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) study 
revealed that the average land amortization collection rate by Land Bank of the Philippines 
(LBP) from 1988 to 2008 was only 22.70%2.
The cause for the low collection rate is two-fold. First, an administrative system to collect 
amortization was not fully established due to prohibitive administrative costs3. Second, the high 
cost of agricultural inputs, low farm outputs, and the onset of devastating meteorological 
calamities, among others, have left the agrarian refonn beneficiaries bereft of any means to pay 
for the amortization.
This bill seeks to accomplish several undertakings. First, it seeks to further increase the 
productivity of agrarian reform beneficiaries by providing them additional financial resources 
through the condonation of their annual amortization. Second, it strives to reduce the 
administrative cost of implementing the agrarian refonn program. Ultimately, it endeavors to 
achieve the original intent of the agrarian reform program, which is to improve the lives of 
fanners, reduce rural poverty and accelerate rural development. Such intervention is founded on 
the principles of the agrarian refonn law, which seek to uphold the welfare of landless farmers 
and farmworkers with the goal of promoting social justice, sound rural development and 
industrialization.
To sustain the gains of the agrarian reform program, the swift passage of this measure is 
earnestly sought.
Senate Economic Planning Office (2008, July). Broadening and Reinforcing the Benefits of Land Reform in the Philippines. 
Policy Brief. Pasay City; Senate of the Philippines.
2 Ballesteros, M. (2010 May). The Cost of Redistributive Land Reform in the Philippines: Assessment of PD 27 and RA 6657 
^ 
(CARL). Disciis.iion Paper Series No. 2010-09. Makati City: Philippine Institute for Development Studies 
Arlanza, R. S., ct. al. (2006 April). Tlic Comprehensive Agrarian Refonn Program: 
Scenarios and Options for Future
Development. Quezon City: Department of Agrarian Refonn.
C\*V ,V 
i ,,
^  i d  ; 1 :
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
)
p I t'l
SENATE 
S. No.
iK i
r* Y
I
■16 
JIIL 19 
[*2  :3 1
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillancs IV
AN ACT
ESTABLISHING A NATIONAL CANCER CENTER TO BE KNOWN AS THE 
PHILIPPINE NATIONAL CANCER CENTER AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS 
THEREFORE
EXPLANATORY NOTE
In the country, cancer ranks as the third leading cause of mortality, claiming 103 lives a day 
or four persons every hour. The estimated incidence rate is 189 persons per 100,000 
Filipinos. Despite this fact, there is no specialized care for all cancer sites in the Philippines.
Although there are several specialized hospitals with complete facilities for cancer patients, 
the same are concentrated or centralized in Metro Manila, primarily catering the needs of 
cancer patients in the National Capital Region, which is one of the areas with the highest 
cases of cancer. However, the cancer incidents arc not only prevalent in NCR. Admittedly, 
many regions in the country do not have cancer hospitals with sufficient equipment and 
facilities to cater the needs of patients suffering from cancer.
The establishment and maintenance of the cancer center would primarily benefit the people 
suffering from cancer, and would further enhance the noble undertaking of research in 
cancer, provide a state of the art training of medical and technical personnel and render 
specialized medical services for the prevention, control and treatment of cancer.
Thus, this bill seeks to establish a national cancer center in the Province of Pampanga to be 
known as Philippine National Cancer Center. It is imperative to decentralize the hospitals 
providing services to patients particularly in regions outside Metro Manila. The province of 
Pampanga is accessible to the patients from other areas with high prevalence of cancer 
incidents. It is strategically located to provide services and address the cancer cases in the 
regions with the highest reported cases particularly in Region 3.
In light of the foregoing, the immediate passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
ANTONK^^bNNY” F. T^RILLANES IV
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
lilt
16 JUL18 P6 -02
S E N A T E
«,) p  f* )
i f . :  
: : i v  i ; i )  ; i Y ;
S.B. NO.
o I
In tro d u ced  by SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA
AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE INTEGRATION AND MAINSTREAMING OF 
CULTURAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS AND ACTIVITIES IN THE COUNTRY’S 
NATIONAL EDUCATION PROGRAM
Explanatory Note
O ur culture is our story as a nation. It is the narrative th at binds Filipinos 
regardless of ethnicity, social class, or educational background into a common 
chronicle of tradition, trials, and trium ph.
According to United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, 
there are two approaches for preserving cultural heritage. The first approach is 
to record it in a tangible form, docum enting and putting it in archives; the 
other is preservation through living form to ensure th at it will be passed on to 
the next generation as well as practised in everyday life.
The Schools of Living Traditions (SLTs) were established in response to the 
latter approach with the aim of preserving and transm itting indigenous skills 
and techniques to the young. It hopes to create and nurtu re the talents of 
culture specialist/m aster to "continue with their own work, develop and 
expand the frontiers of th at work, and train younger people to take their place 
in the future."
The National Commission for C ulture and the Arts (NCCA) has successfully 
instituted and m anaged the growth of SLTs. In the last fifteen years, the 
num ber of SLTs across the country am ong different ethno-linguistic groups has 
grown in num ber. The mode of teaching of SLTs is usually non-formal, oral and 
through practical dem onstrations. The location of SLTs may be as simple as in 
the house of the living m aster or a com m unity social hall.
The establishm ent of SLTs shows th at the governm ent has already taken 
concrete steps to address the need to safeguard the intangible cultural heritage 
of the country. W hat the country needs, however, is a m ajor leap in m aking 
sure the country’s unique and diverse cultural heritage will flourish.
This bill provides th at the country’s key educational agencies—the D epartm ent 
of Education (DepEd), Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the 
Technical Education and Skill Development Authority (TESDA), collaborate and 
work with the National Commission for C ulture and the Arts (NCCA) in 
form ulating and im plem enting plans and program s th at will integrate and 
m ainstream  Philippine arts and culture in the national education system.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
)
REPUBLIC OP THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
>  
( C l f i r t  o t  H m' 
“ ' 1 - I v y
'16 
nil. 28 All :20
SENATE
S. B. No. 915
r^Y;
T)\
D
In tro d u ced  by SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA
AN ACT STRENGTHENING THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE PHILIPPINES, 
REPEALING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8492, OTHERWISE 
KNOWN AS THE NATIONAL MUSEUM ACT OF 1998, AND APPROPRIATING 
FUNDS THEREFOR
' 
Explanatory Note
Amidst the changes being undertaken by the National M useum  to improve its 
existing collections and redevelop its facilities—highlighted by the yet-to-be 
finished M useum  of N atural History at the former D epartm ent of Tourism  
building, there is a clear need to repeal Republic Act 8492 or the National M useum  
Act of 1998 and replace it with new legislation strengthening the institution’s role 
as the national repository of the country’s natural, cultural, and historical heritage 
for the sake of present and future generations of Filipinos.
Under this bill, the current National M useum  shall be known as the National 
M useum of the Philippines or the Pam bansang Museo ng Pilipinas whose future 
complex shall include the entire portion of Rizal Park and of the existing golf 
course or former m oat of Intram uros. By requiring the design of the M aster Plan of 
the National M useum  Complex to adhere in “general term s” to the B urnham  Plan 
of 1905, the M useum  will enable the residents and visitors of M anila to appreciate 
and preserve the rem aining architectural heritage of M anila as a prem ier city of 
Asia right before the devastation in World War 11 and the unfettered development 
th at followed after.
To generate funds for this redevelopm ent and other projects in the future, the 
M useum shall be given more flexibility in generating, m aintaining, and spending 
its internally generated income, donations from the private sector and annual 
appropriations from the national government.
In light of these reasons, im m ediate passage of this bill is requested.
LOREN LEGARDA
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session
of tljf ^''<“11. !:u i_
’16 
I'lL 28 All :12
S E N A T E
S. B. NO. 913
In tro d u ced  by SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA
AN ACT ESTABLISHING THE PEOPLE’S BROADCASTING CORPORATION, 
ABOLISHING THE PEOPLE’S TELEVISION NETWORK, INC., AND FOR 
OTHER PURPOSES
Explanatory Note
Article II Section 24 of the 1987 C onstitution declares th at the State recognizes 
the role of com m unication and information in nation-building. The rapidly 
evolving m edia landscape, together with the need for a reinvigorated 
government-owned broadcast station, necessitates the abolition of the People’s 
Television Network and in its place to be established the People’s Broadcasting 
Corporation (PBC).
Under this m easure, the proposed PBC shall have its own charter to ensure its 
editorial independence and complete control over program m ing and content. It 
will be granted not only television broadcasting rights, but radio broadcasting 
rights as well. It is envisioned to air radio and television program s distinct from 
those presently shown in commercial television stations.
Salient features of this m easure include the following:
• 
Assertion of the independence of PBC;
• 
Recognition of emerging com m unication technologies;
• 
E stablishm ent of secondary broadcast hu b s in the Visayas and M indanao to 
cover the entire Philippine archipelago;
• 
A nnual appropriations for PBC for at least ten years; and
• 
Consolidation of the assets of the B ureau of B roadcast Services (Radyo ng 
Bay an) with th at of the People’s Television Network.
In view of the foregoing, passage of this bill is earnestly requested.
LORENLEGARDA
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
)
'TP*rvy
^ 
.. 6 JUL 19 
All ‘-42
SENATE
s. No. 491
I V
______________Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV_____________
AN ACT
EXPANDING 
THE 
CENTER 
FOR 
INTERNATIONAL 
RELATIONS 
AND 
STRATEGIC STUDIES TO INCLUDE RESEARCH AND FORMULATION OF 
STRATEGIC OPTIONS FOR NATIONAL ECONOMIC AND SECURITY POLICIES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Government policies in the country have been inclined to vary from one administration to 
another. Attached to this is merely the absence of systematic policy research that can 
facilitate the formulation of government policies as well as the strategies necessary to 
implement them.
In public governance, leaders should consider not only affairs that are confined within their 
terms as elected public officials. More importantly, they must focus on long-term planning 
and strategic concepts in relation to the country's welfare. Thus, there should be a special 
group - a team of experts doing research work and formulating sound national policies - 
assigned to carry out strategic studies for the benefit of the country.
The strengthening of policy research and strategic studies on the country is extremely urgent. 
In anticipation of the remarkable changes the country is bound to experience, both nationwide 
and worldwide, it becomes more necessary to define how our national and international 
policies should advance.
This bill assigns the formulation of strategic policies to the Center for International Relations 
and Strategic Studies. This bill also proposes for the expansion of functions of the said center, 
by including researches on matters of national and economic security. In view of the 
foregoing, the immediate approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
ANTONIOjy^> N m ^. trJll^
esiv
Senator