bettergovph/raw-philippine-data huggingface dataset:
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s.No.__30R 8,
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
^
cn3{ r
> r a f t ir y
'16 
JAN 11 
P 4 « 9
BY:
AN ACT
REQUIRING THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION TO DEVELOP A SAFETY 
INTERNET EDUCATION PROGRAM AND INCLUDE THIS IN THE 
CURRICULUM OF ALL ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOLS
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Constitution, Article 2, Section 13 states:
The State recognizes the vital role of the youth in nation-building 
and shall promote and protect their physical, moral, spiritual, intellectual, 
and social well-being. It shall inculcate in the youth patriotism and 
nationalism, and encourage their involvement in public and civic affairs.
It is acknowledged that the Internet, mobile phone, and other new digital 
technology arc invaluable tools, critical to the ability of a nation to compete in a global 
economy; however, the easy, immediately accessible digital connections between 
individuals have also created safety problems for vulnerable sectors.
Internet users have grown exponentially in the past years; a large part of these 
users are minors. Statistics on American internet users showed that about 93 percent of 
youth ages 12 through 17 years arc online and nearly 45 percent of children ages 3 to 11 
years will use the Internet on a monthly basis in 2009. Eighty-nine percent of youth 13 
through 19 years of age have a profile on social-networking sites. Meanwhile, US studies 
on the use of mobile phones show that eighty percent of teens 13 through 17 years of age 
use cell phones, most of which have built-in cameras.
The Philippines has high internet penetration. In a joint study conducted by 
Nielsen Company Philippines and Yahoo! in 2008. it was found that Filipinos between 10
Cl
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE1 c
S. No. 
o l l b
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
S rn a tr
cOlfire wf lli>
*16 JAN 25 P5:l3
Ki:< EIVEI) BY: \
r.
AN ACT
PROVIDING GRANTS FOR ELECTRONIC DEVICE RECYCLING RESEARCH. 
DEVELOPMENT, AND DEMONSTRATION PROJECTS
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Constitution, Article 14, Section 10, provides:
Science and technology are essential for national development and 
progress. The State shall give priority to research and development, 
invention, innovation, and their utilization; and to science and technology 
education, training, and services. It shall support indigenous, appropriate, 
and self-reliant scientific and technological capabilities, and their 
application to the country's productive systems and national life.
Technological advancements have grown significantly over the years. Many 
electronic devices can reportedly cause serious environmental damage due to their toxic 
components.
Electronics that are in need of disposal are referred to as e-waste, or electronic 
waste. There has been a growing concern about the hazards of electronic waste. Some of 
these concerns include improper disposal of toxic materials, health and safety concerns 
for people involved in the disposal of these items, as well as dangers to the soil and water 
supply.
Electronic devices are made using substances such as lead, cadmium, aluminum, 
zinc, copper, and plastics which can all leak poisonous material in the ground and water. 
These environmental concerns have resulted in tlie establishment of electronic recycling 
facilities and industries abroad which take old electronics, such as computers for the
*•
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s. No. 
31 sn
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
-S rn a tr
*16 JAN 26 P2S5
lU X ’K IV L l) BY:
AN ACT
TO PROMULGATE A CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY STANDARD FOR EACH 
DURABLE INFANT OR TODDLER PRODUCT
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Unintentional injuries are the leading cause of death among children. In the United 
States, an average of 50 children under the age of five die each year in incidents 
associated with nursery products, and about 16 of these deaths each year are associated 
with cribs.
In 2003, an estimated 60,700 children under the age of five were treated in United 
States hospital emergency rooms for injuries associated with nursery products, and there 
were 10,700 injuries to children under the age of five years associated with strollers 
alone.
Here in the Philippines, we lack product standards to protect our toddlers and 
infants from similar incidents. This bill seeks to direct the Department of Trade and 
Industry to promulgate a consumer product safety standard for each durable infant or 
toddler product.* 1
1 This bill was originally filed during Ihe Thirteenth Congress, Tliird Regular Session.
1
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Tliird Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s. No. 
3102
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
Arnntr
<9lfirr of tl]t4^rn*tsr|
*16 JAM 25 P5«4
RECEIvni) nv:
AN ACT
BANNING PUBLIC OFFICERS AND EMPLOYEES FROM SMOKING 
WITHIN THE WORK PREMISES DURING OFFICIAL WORK HOURS 
AND PROVIDING PENALTIES THEREFOR
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Civil Service Commission, the central personnel agency of the government, 
has launched several programs, which include the imposition of smoking ban for public 
servants, to ensure honesty, integrity and dedication of the government workers as well as 
to promote efficiency in the delivery of public service.
It had been previously noted that workers who smoke arc proven to be seven 
percent (7%) less productive because of the time they spend on their self-imposed 
cigarette breaks. For this reason, the Civil Service Commission reminded all smoking 
public servants of the existence of Memorandum Circular No. 30, Series of 1991 and 
issued a stern warning to those who would violate the same. Under the said 
Memorandum Circular, the first violation would lead to reprimand, while suspension 
could be given for the second and dismissal for the third. This Circular however, appears 
to have been ignored by smoking public servants either because agencies of the 
government did not cooperate in implementing the smoking ban or the Civil Service 
Commission itself is not loo serious in implementing this policy.
In order to put more teeth to this government policy, this bill seeks to ban public 
olllcers and employees from smoking within the premises during office hours. Once 
approved, any person found guilty of violating the provision of this Act shall suffer the
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Tliird Regular Session
SENATE
s. No. _ 3 1 5 2
)
S r n : ! t r
lOll.it 
Mir Irnrljitil
•16 JAN 28 P3 09
KKCKIVEI) BY: V ll
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
AMENDING SECTION 85. PARAGRAPH (A) OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7160.
OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT CODE
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
TIic Constitution, Article 11. Section I states:
Public office is a public trust. Public officers and employees must at 
all times be accountable to the people, serve them with utmost 
responsibility, integrity, loyalty, and efficiency, act with patriotism and 
justice, and lead modest lives.
According to the Administrative Code, Section 52, the duration of preventive 
suspension is equal to the period prescribed for deciding administrative disciplinary 
cases. If the ease is decided before 90 days, then the suspension will last less than 90 
days. However, if the case is not decided within 90 days, then the suspension may not 
exceed the maximum period of 90 days. The objective of preventive suspension is to 
prevent the accused from hampering the normal course of the investigation with his or 
her influence and authority over possible witnesses or to keep him or her off the records 
and other evidence, and to assist prosecutors in firming up a ease against an erring local 
official,1
However, a different rule applies to employees of local government units. 
According to the Local Government Code, Section 85, local chief executives may 
preventively suspend for a period not exceeding 60 days any subordinate official or 
employee under his or her authority pending investigation. Upon expiration of the
1 Ganzon v. Court of Appeals, 200 SCR A 271.272 (1991).
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s. No. 3112
S c n n tr
•16 JAN 25 PSnO
ICKCKIVEIJ BY:
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
PROTECTING PRIVATE PROPERTY RIGHTS BY REQUIRING 
GOVERNMENT AGENCIES TO PREPARE PRIVATE PROPERTY TAKING
IMPACT ANALYSIS
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Constitution, Article 3, Section 9, provides:
Private property shall not be taken for public use without just 
compensation.
The ownership of private property plays an important role in the economic and 
social well-being of the country. Thus, even agency actions that merely restrict the use of 
private property and result in a significant diminution of its value should constitute a 
taking of that property and should be properly compensated.
This bill seeks to protect private property rights by requiring government agencies 
to prepare private property taking impact analyses. This is important, as agencies should 
consider the impact of agency actions, including regulations, on the use and ownership of 
private property.* 1
MIRIAM DEFBnSOR SANTI [GO
j.
1 This bill was originally filed during ihc Thirteenth Congress, First Regular Session and rcfiled during the 
Fourteenth Congress, First Regular Session.
1
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENAX 
S. No.
ff7 3
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
0
S rn n tr
wf tljf > ffr r r t 9 r |
T6 JAN 28 P3 :48
lU X T v IV E I) I5Y:
AN ACT
IMPROVING THE ACCURACY OF EYEWITNESS IDENTIFICATIONS
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Eyewitness testimony is powerful evidence in a courtroom, but it is not error- 
proof. In fact, misidcntifications are the leading cause of wrongful convictions overturned 
by DNA testing. This infonnation is contained in a July 2009 report released by the 
Innocence Project, an organization based in the Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law at 
Yeshiva University, New York, U.S.A.
The findings in “Reevaluating Lineups: Why Witnesses Make Mistakes and How 
to Reduce the Chance of a Misidcntification,” include:
• 240 people, serving an average of 12 years in prison, have been exonerated 
through DNA testing in the United States, and 75% of those wrongful 
convictions (179 individual cases as of this report) involved eyewitness 
misidentification.
• In 38% of the misidentification cases, multiple eyewitnesses misidentified the 
same innocent person.
• Over 250 witnesses misidentified innocent suspects.
• 53% percent of the misidentification cases (among those where race is known) 
involved cross-racial misidcntifications.
h i l l  
X 'rri.r.i
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC } 
OFTHE PHILIPPINES 
}
Third Regular Session 
}
S E N A T E
SENATE BILL NO.
3154
'16 
.JAII27 
P 2 ^ ) l
ic i;r i;iv t:i)  ijv.-
[in substitution of SDN 100 and 143)
Prepared Jointly by the Committees on Environment and Natural Resources; Agriculture 
and Food; and Finance with Senators Legarda, Vlllar and Escudero as authors
AN ACT
TO ADOPT INTEGRATED COASTAL MANAGEMENT AS A NATIONAL STRATEGY TO 
ENSURE THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF THE COASTAL AND MARINE 
ENVIRONMENT AND RESOURCES AND TO ESTABLISH SUPPORTING MECHANISMS 
FOR ITS IMPLEMENTATION AND PROVIDE FUNDS THEREFOR
Be ft enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines In Congress assembled:
1 
CHAPTER I
2 
GENERAL PROVISIONS
3 
SECTION 1. Short Title. -  This Act shall be known as the in teg rated  Coastal
4 
Management Actu,
5 
SEC. 2. Declaration of Policy. -It shall be the policy of the State to ensure
6 
sustainable development of coastal and marine resources in consultation with all
7 
stakeholders. Towards this end, it shall adopt Integrated Coastal Management,
8 
hereinafter referred to as ICM, to address the connectivity of terrestrial and marine
9 
biodiversity, social and ecological systems and the different hum an activities taking
10 
place therein, to prom ote sustainable development, to achieve food security, poverty
11 
alleviation, gender equality, respect for sustainable traditional resource rights of
12 
indigenous peoples, and to reduce vulnerability to climate change, and human induced
13 
and natural hazards.
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Third Regular Session
SENATE
s.No_aa27
;}h ijnniv'
o J f j V  ( f t H M f o ' t i i f
•15 DEC-8 A10:n
:;i;< Kivi.i) llY:— A.
Prepared by the Committees on National Defense and Security and 
Finance with Senators Trlllanes IV and Legarda as authors
AN ACT
TO INCREASE THE OLD-AGE PENSION OF MILITARY VETERANS 
AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SECTION 10 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 
6948
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the 
Republic of the Philippines in Congress assembled:
1 
SECTION. 1. Section 10 of Republic Act 6948 as amended by
2 
Republic Act 7696 is hereby further amended to read as follows:
3 
“Sec. 10. Eligibility. -  A veteran as defined in Section 2(a) of this
4 
Act who is at least sixty-five (65) years old shall be paid an old-age
5 
pension of EIGHT [One] thousand pesos (P[1] 8,000.00) monthly
6 
for life, unless he Is actually receiving a similar pension for the
7 
same consideration from other-government funds or from the
8 
United States Government. [: Provided, That In the succeeding
9 
years 
starting January, 
1995, 
said 
One thousand 
pesos
10 
(PI,000.00) monthly old-age pension shall be increased annually
11 
by not less than Five hundred pesos (500) per month until total old-
12 
age pension shall be at least Five thousand pesos (P5,000.00) per
13 
month."]
14 
SEC. 2. Appropriations. -  In order to augment the amount needed to fill
15 
in the increase in the old-age pension as mandated in this Act, the amount
16 
necessary for the purpose shall be taken from the savings In the budget of the
17 
Department of National Defense, In addition to the annual funding allotted for
18 
this purpose. Such amount as may be necessary to fund the Increase In the
19 
old-age pension shall thereafter be Included in the annual General
20 
Appropriations Act.
21
22 
SEC. 3, Repealing Clause. - All laws. Presidential Decrees, Issuances,
23 
Executive Orders, Letters of Instruction, rules or regulations inconsistent with
24 
the provision of this Act Is hereby repealed or modified accordingly.
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE
SNo. 
3 1 0 ]
Srnatr
*16 JAN 25 P5«4
nECEIVEI) IlY:
A
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
TO ESTABLISH THE NATIONAL COMMISSION ON THE IMPACT OF FILIPINO
CULTURE ON THE YOUTH
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Constitution, Article 11, Section 13 provides that:
The State recognizes the vita! role of the youth in nation building 
and shall promote and protect their physical, moral, spiritual, intellectual, 
and social well-being.
It shall inculcate in the youth patriotism and nationalism, and 
encourage their involvement in public and civil affairs.
The potential of the youth to make lasting contributions to freedom's cause is 
unparalleled. Yet, some serious flaws have appeared in our social and cultural fabric, 
characterized by destructive behaviors among some of our youth that are damaging our 
country and the ability of this generation to achieve its full potential.
The purpose of this bill is to establish a National Commission on the impact of 
Filipino culture on the youth in order to investigate and make findings and 
recommendations with respect to:
1. the condition and status of contemporary youth compared to prior generations, 
with particular attention to family, neighborhood,, school, scholastic attainment, 
work, and community involvement;
2. the nature, origin, and trends of antisocial and violent behavior among the youth;
o
SIXTEENTII CONGRESS OF TI IE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S. No. 
3 6 7 2
]X 
r S - ' ' " " ' '
4Piii.ir 
M|C 
fTrt.ir|
•16 
JAN 12 P 3 ^ n
KIVLH P.Y:
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
REQUIRING HOSPITALS TO INSTALL CLOSED CIRCUIT TELEVISION (CCTV) 
CAMERAS IN SELECTED PORTIONS OF THE HOSPITAL AND PENALIZING THE 
PUBLICATION OF THE VIDEO TAKEN BY THIS CAMERAS WITHOUT A COURT
1 
ORDER
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Many countries require closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras in their 
hospitals, For instance, hospitals in Vietnam are required to have CCTV cameras in their 
hospitals to catch corrupt medical staff. In Malaysia, CCTV cameras arc used to protect 
patients undergoing medical operations.
Putting CCTV cameras in selected portions of the hospital has many advantages. 
First, now that CCTV cameras are required in operating rooms, patients and doctors now 
have additional security that their whole operation is being recorded so that in case of 
medical malpractice, both patient and doctor can rely on the video taken from the CCTV 
cameras to prove their respective cases. Second, since this Act also intends to require 
hospitals to have cameras in their delivery rooms and nurseries, baby switching will now 
be minimized if not totally avoided. Third, since CCTV cameras are now also required to 
be installed in hospital exits and entrances, an additional security is now provided 
patients and doctors alike.
With all its benefits, some quarters will still have second thoughts on having their 
operation videotaped because of fear that the footage might appear on the internet or in
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s. No. 
a is a
jSciKitr
lili
of 1‘if
16 JAN 28 P3:40
ULCKIVKI) BY:
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
ESTABLISHING COMPREHENSIVE ALCOHOL. TOBACCO AND OTHER 
DRUG ABUSE PROGRAMS IN EVERY SCHOOL
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Constitution, Article 2, Section 13, provides:
The State recognizes the vital role of the youth in nation-building 
and shall promote and protect their physical, moral, spiritual, intellectual, 
and social well-being.
In order to ensure our youth’s physical, intellectual and social well-being and 
development, it is necessary to recognize potential pitfalls and dangers. The stress of 
coping with academic requirements, parental expectations, peer pressure, and 
overwhelming curiosity can and have made students vulnerable to substance abuse.
Tobacco is the single greatest cause of preventable death globally. Tobacco use 
leads most commonly to diseases affecting the heart and lungs, with smoking being a 
major risk factor for heart attacks, strokes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease 
(COPD) (including emphysema and chronic bronchitis), and cancer (particularly lung 
cancer, cancers of the larynx and mouth, and pancreatic cancer).
Alcohol use contributes to a wide range of diseases, health conditions and high- 
risk behaviours, from mental disorders and road traffic injuries, to liver diseases and 
unsafe sexual behaviour. Drug abuse is a well-known serious issue that carries great 
social and economic costs through Its impacts on crime and health.
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Third Regular Session
SENATE
s.No._an5R
<Qi|<ir »‘f Mjf I'jrTft.nry
*16 JAN 11 PAm
i : i ; <  K i \  \:\) \ i \ :
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
REGULATING THE HANDLING AND DISPOSAL 
OF POLYCHLORINATED BIPHENYLS
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.
Polychlorinated Biphenyls or PCBs belong to a broad family of man-made organic 
chemicals known as chlorinated hydrocarbons. They have a range of toxicity and vary in 
consistency from tliin, light-colored liquids to yellow or black waxy solids. Due to their 
non-flammability, chemical stability, high boiling point, and electrical insulating 
properties, PCBs were used in hundreds of industrial and commercial applications 
including electrical, heat transfer, and hydraulic equipment; as plasticizers in paints, 
plastics, and rubber products; in pigments, dyes, and carbonless copy paper; and many 
other industrial applications.1
PCBs have been demonstrated to cause a variety of adverse health effects. PCBs 
have been shown to cause cancer in animals. PCBs have also been shown to cause a 
number of serious non-cancer health effects in animals, including effects on the immune 
system, reproductive system, nervous system, endocrine system and other health effects. 
Studies in humans provide supportive evidence for potential carcinogenic and non- 
carcinogenic effects of PCBs. The different health effects of PCBs may be interrelated, as
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency http://www.cnn.pov/waste/hazard/'tsd/ncbs/nubs/ahout.htm
I
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s. No. 
3201
S rn atr
•16 FEB-1 P3 22
JIKCKIVEI) BY:,
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR A COUNTRYSIDE SPORTS DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Constitution, Article 2, Section 17, provides:
The State shall give priority to education, science and technology, 
arts, culture and sports to foster patriotism and nationalism, accelerate 
social progress, and promote total human liberation and development.
Apart from the intermittent efforts of some national teams and associations, there 
is no single program to address the problems that slow down sports development. There 
is a need to better our sports programs on a long-term basis. These appear to come from 
the public perception of sports. In the interest of sports development in the country, there 
is a need to improve the existing national sports program, not only by unifying the efforts 
of the different national teams and associations, but also by a high-profile campaign 
encouraging as many Filipinos as possible to engage in sports.
With the manner that sports programs are facilitated in the country, those who are 
well off are the ones who have access to better instruction, training, and facilities. In a 
developing country like the Philippines, most live below the poverty level so more 
pressing problems prevent them from pursuing any interest they have in sports. There is 
only the annual basketball liga in different barangays which is the highlight of the sports 
activities for most rural communities.
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s. No. 
3064
i.pih 
Small-
•16 
JI\N 11 
P 4 :0 6
K iv i.i>  i;V;
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
REQUIRING THE DESIGNATION OF THE SAFEST ROUTES FOR THE 
TRANSPORTATION OF HAZARDOUS AND NUCLEAR WASTES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
R.A. No. 6969 or the “Toxic Substances and Hazardous and Nuclear Wastes 
Control Act ofl990,” covers the importation, manufacture, processing, handling, storage, 
transportation, sales, distribution, use, and disposal of all unregulated chemical 
substances and mixtures in the Philippines, including the entry, even in transit, as well as 
the keeping or storage and disposal of hazardous and nuclear wastes into the country for 
whatever purpose.
However, the law lacks specific guidelines on how the hazardous and nuclear 
wastes would be transported. This bill seeks to empower the Secretary of the Department 
of Environment and Natural Resources and the Secretary of the Department of 
Transportation and Communications, in coordination with other concerned government 
and non-government entities, to establish the safest routes for the transportation of 
hazardous and nuclear wastes.1
This bill was originally filed during the Fourteenth Congress, First Regular Session.
1
o
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s. No. 
3045
• S r ir .h -
•15 
DEC 16 ? 5 m
Ur.V’KIVKI) BY: 
/
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
TO ENSURE THE SAFETY OF COSMETIC SURGERY PATIENTS
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Constitution, Article 2, Section 15, provides:
Section 15. The State shall protect and promote the rig 
the people and instill health consciousness among them.
It to health of
The number of Filipinos and foreigners seeking cosmetic surgery in the country 
continue to rise. The other side of this good news is reports about permanent 
disfigurement and untimely death due to botched surgeries performed by incompetent or 
even unlicensed individuals. The State has the duty to regulate this field of medical 
practice in order to give life to the abovementioned Constitutional provision.
This bill seeks to better protect those who choose elective surgery by requiring 
written clearances prior to surgery.1
This bill was originally filed during the Fourteenth Congress, Second Regular Session.
1
<](fpu6fic o f the (phitippines 
: S E I V A T E  
'  
(pasay City
Scnatr
i t,l
•16 JAN 25 P5 24
l\
January 25,2016
RIX'EIVEI) BY:
Atty. OSCAR C.YABES 
Secretary
Senate of the Philippines 
Pasay City
TH RU : 
Ms. MA. ANTONIETTEP. ARISTOZA
Director III, Bills and Index Service
t
Dear S ecretary Yabes:
May I be allowed to w ithdraw  Senate Bill No. 3093 under Committee Report No. 
374, entitled "An Act Instituting a National Land Use Policy Providing the Implementing 
Mechanisms Therefor, and for Other Purposes".
Thank you.
Sincerely,
FOR THE CHAIRMAN:
SEN. FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
Atty. ROLANDO R T S N ^ -----------
Chief of Staff
Office of Senator Francis G. Escudero
•1 ,
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Tliird Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s. No. 
3140
■16 JI\N 26 P3fl1
UKCEIVEI) UY:
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
PROVIDING MEASURES TO ENHANCE THE ACCEPTABILITY OF 
AGRICULTURAL LANDS AS SECURITY FOR LOANS OBTAINED FROM 
LENDERS, BANKS, AND OTHER FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS THEREBY 
PROMOTING ACCESS TO RURAL CREDIT. PROVIDING MECHANISMS 
THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This bill seeks to provide measures to enhance the acceptability of agricultural 
lands as security for loans obtained from banks and other financial institutions. In the 
event that the acceptability of agricultural lands as collateral in loan applications is 
enhanced, access to rural credit will be upheld and encouraged.
The salient provisions of this measure and other points that are connected to other 
existing agrarian reform laws are projected to work toward the benefit of the poor and 
marginalized farming populace in our rural communities. Strengthening the capacity of 
the agrarian sector is a significant action to sustain and promote the welfare and interests 
of the farmers and other agrarian reform beneficiaries. This is a Senate counterpart bill to 
the one filed in the House of Representatives by Rep. Rodriguez D. Dadivas.1
AM DEIVtNSOR SA NT^G O
1 This bill was originally filed during the Fifieenth Congress, First Regular Session
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE
SNo._3061-
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
r
> r r f  fJ.if y
•16 
JAN 11 
P 4 « 4
U I X K I V K I )  n \:
AN ACT
PROHIBITING THE POSTING OF POLITICAL SIGNS 
ON GOVERNMENT PROPERTY
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Political signs will start cropping up like mushrooms pretty soon, as another 
nationwide election approaches.
Candidates for public office uniformly define themselves as law-abiding citizens 
with the public good at heart. However, virtually every candidate allow or encourage 
their campaign workers to violate the law by posting hundreds of signs in the public 
right-of-way in the medians of major roads.
Incumbents vying for re-election and candidates presently occupying Government 
positions often use government funds and resources to bolster their election campaign. 
This creates an unfair advantage to the other candidates that do not have such resources at 
their disposal.
The political signs on private property, homes and businesses, are part of good 
political discourse. However, the act of erecting in Government property political signs 
by candidates who have access to them should be considered illegal so as to level the 
playing field for all aspiring candidates.
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s. No. 
3049
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
S tn a tr
•16 
JAN 11 
P 3 :4 7
ia:rH ivr:i) uy;
AN ACT
REGULATING THE NOISE EMISSION OF MOTORCYCLES 
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The United States' National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health warns 
that exposure to noise at 100 decibels is safe for only 15 minutes. The federal agency 
cautions that permanent hearing loss can result from eight hours of exposure to any noise 
measuring 85 decibels or above. In a test of 33 motorcycles, audiologists at Florida's 
College of Public Health and Health Professions determined that nearly half produced 
sounds above 100 decibels when throttled up. That is equal to a chainsaw or loud music.
In addition to the obvious unwanted effect of hearing loss, noise can cause other 
health issues as well. It increases blood pressure, has negative cardiovascular effects such 
as changing the way the heart beats, increases breathing rate, disturbs digestion, can 
cause an upset stomach or ulcer, can negatively impact a developing fetus, perhaps 
contributing to premature birth, and makes it difficult to sleep, even after the noise stops. 
These are preventable health risks which this legislation seeks to address.1
MIRIAM DEF\)NS0R SANTIAGO
1 T h is  b it !  w a s  o r ig in a lly  H ie d  in  th e  F ifte e n th  C o n g re s s , F ir s t R e g u la r  S e s s io n
I
o
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s. No. 
3155
S r n . 'ilr
i f i l l i r r  I'f Utc
•16 JAN 28 P3:37
U K C L IV K I) BY:
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
PROVIDING THE PROCEDURE FOR THE REGULAR ADJUSTMENT FOR INFLATION 
OF CIVIL MONETARY PENALTIES AS PROVIDED IN THE PENAL CODE AND 
AMOUNT OF DAMAGES CAUSED BY A CRIME OR QUASI-DELICT
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The power of the State to impose civil pecuniary penalties for violation of the 
penal law has a deterrent effect. But inflation has weakened this deterrent effect.
TIius, the government needs to provide for the assessment and adjustment of 
existing values of the civil monetary penalties. This bill provides for the regular 
adjustment for inflation of civil monetary penalties, and maintain their deterrent effect. 
This bill is a product of the public hearings conducted by the Committee on
I,
Constitutional Amendments, Revision of Codes and Laws during the 13th Congress.1
DmtkNSOR'SA]
1 This bill was originally filed during Ihe Thirteenth Congress. First Regular Session and refilled during the 
Fifteenth Congress, First Regular Session.
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHIUPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
S. No.
SENATE
3088
Ncrrbfii
•16 JAN 18 P4 57
KIX KIVKIJ HY:
Prepared by the Committees on National Defense and Security and Government 
Corporations and Public Enterprises with Senators Trillanes and Vlllar as authors
AN ACT
AMENDING PERTINENT LAWS ON THE RETIREMENT BENEFITS AND 
PENSION OF THE UNIFORMED PERSONNEL OF THE UNIFORMED SERVICES 
AND PROVIDING FUNDS THEREFOR
Be it enacted by the Senate and Home o f Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
assembled:
1 
SECTION 1. Title. This Act shall be known os the “Unified Uniformed Personnel
2 
Retirement Benefits and Pension Reform Act of 2016.”
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20 
21 
22
23
24
25
26
SECTION 2. Declaration of State Policy, The Stale duly recognizes the vital role of the 
uniformed services in providing internal and external security, promoting peace and order, 
ensuring public safely and further strengthening local government capability aimed towards 
the effective delivery of basic services to the dtizcmy. The State also recognizes the 
extraordinary hazards, risks, perils and dangers that the uniformed personnel of the uniformed 
services encounter in the performance of their duties.
9 
It shall therefore be the prime concern of the State to provide all uniformed personnel
10 
adequate remuneration and benefits, including retirement benefits and pension. To this end,
11 
the State shall ensure that the retirement benefits and pension scheme of the uniformed
12 
personnel is secure, reliable, and sustainable.
SECTION 3. Definition of Terms. As used in this Act, the following terms shall have the 
corresponding meanings hereinafter set forth:
a) 
AFP-RSBS shall refer to the Armed Forces of the Philippines Retirement and 
Separation Benefits System established by virtue of Presidential Decree (PD) 
361, as amended by PD 1656;
b) 
Existing Retirees shall refer to retired uniformed personnel who are currently 
receiving or entitled to recei^'e retirement benefits and pension under existing 
laws applicable to the uniformed services at the time of the effectivity of this 
Act;
c) 
Future Retirees shall refer to uniformed personnel active at the time of the 
effectivity of this Act, and to new entrants, all of whom, at the time of their 
actual retirement from the uniformed services, are eligible to receive
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s.No._aa74_
•« V I
t* |t *., » rT ^ l4 ry
*16 
JAN 1 2  P3M
R L i ’K IV U ; liV:
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR RECRUITING, SELECTING, TRAINING, AND SUPPORTING A 
NATIONAL TEACHER CORPS IN UNDERSERVED COMMUNITIES
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
■,
Tlic Constitution, Article 16, Section I provides that:
SEC. 24. The State shall protect and promote the right of all citizen 
to quality education at all levels and shall take appropriate steps to makes 
such education accessible to all.
The advent of globalization has lead to a phenomenon called “brain drain” where 
our professionals, many of which are teachers work abroad to take lesser positions with 
better pay. Such trend resulted in shortage of teachers for students in our local schools. 
The most affected, however, arc the students from the underprivileged communities.
By establishing an aggressive campaign, we would be able to lessen the plight of 
the students by providing them with competent teachers who would be willing to serve 
these communities for definite periods of time.
This bill seeks to establish a program that would engage the cooperation of the 
private sector in recruiting, training and deployment of teachers to underprivileged
communities.
MIRIAM DEF
SOR SANTli/GO
This bill was originally filed in ihc Flfiecnth Congress, First Regular Session
1
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s.No. 
321 n
'yjjt 
.S rn atr
tJjf 5 m » b r \|
•16 FEB-2 P6 23
UKCKIVLI) HY:
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
REQUIRING DISCLOSURE OF ENVIRONMENTAL RECORD OF APPLICANTS 
FOR AN ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE CERTIFICATE
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Constitution, Article 2, Section 16, provides:
The State shall protect and advance the right of the people to a 
balanced ecology in accord with the rhythm and harmony of nature.
The Constitution, Article 12, Section 2, also provides:
....The exploration, development, and utilization of natural resources 
shall be under the full control and supervision of the state..,.
In the fulfillment of these responsibilities, the State enacted Presidential Decree 
No. 1586, or the Act establishing an environmental impact statement (EIS) system, 
including other environmental management related measures. Included in this law is the 
mandatory requirement of Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) for projects that 
pose impact to the environment.
The ECC is a document issued by the Department of Natural Resources (DENR) 
certifying that based on the representations of the proponent, the proposed project or 
undertaking will not cause significant negative environmental impact. DENR reviews 
applications for this certificate to ensure that project proponents will comply with all the 
requirements of the EIS.
r
SIXTEENTH CONGRBSS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Third Regular Session
SENATE
SNo._3Q.71
• ’ . ' ^ , 1 '  l O l t ' f f  «•* t l. r
r t f l a r j j
*16 JAN 12 P3«0
H L ( ' K I \  K l )  15Y:
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR PEOPLE'S INITIATIVE TO AMEND THE CONSTITUTION
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Tlic Constitution, Article 17, Section 2. provides:
Sec. 2. Amendments to this Constitution may likewise be directly 
proposed by the people through initiative upon a petition of at least twelve 
per centum of the total number of registered voters, of which every 
legislative district must be represented by at least three per centum of the 
registered voters therein.
No amendment under this provision shall be authorized within five years 
following the ratification of this constitution nor ofiener than once every five years 
thereailer. The Congress shall provide for the implementation of the exercise of this right. 
In the 1997 case of Defensor Santiago v. Commission on Elections, the Supreme Court 
through Associate Justice Hilario G. Davide, Jr. (later Chief Justice), held that;
This provision is not self-executory. In his book, Joaquin Bernas, a 
member of the 1986 Constitutional Commission, stated:
Without implementing legislation Section 2 cannot operate. Thus, 
although this mode of amending the Constitution is a mode of amendment, 
which bypasses congressional action, in the last analysis it still is dependent 
on congressional action.
Bluntly stated, the right of the people to directly propose 
amendments to the Constitution through the system of initiative would 
remain entombed in the cold niche of the Constitution until Congress 
provides for its implementation. Stated otherwise, while the Constitution 
has recognized or granted that right, the people cannot exercise it if 
Congress, for whatever reason, docs not provide for its implementation." 
{Defensor Santiago v. Commission on Elections, 270 SCRA 106, p. 136 
(1997).
1
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s. No.___3192
•16 FEB-1 P 3 :l7
KKCKIVKI) BY:
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
IMPROVING CONSUMER ACCESS TO PASSENGER VEHICLE LOSS DATA
HELD BY INSURERS
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Passenger Vehicle Loss Disclosure Act would require insurance companies to 
publicly disclose the vehicle engine and chassis numbers, the dale the vehicle is declared 
"total loss," the odometer reading on the date of the declaration of total loss, and a 
statement explaining why the vehicle is declared total loss.
The Land Transportation Office will regulate and require that all insurers and self- 
insurers disclose this information to the public in a "commercially reasonable, 
electronically accessible manner." Hence, the information will be available to consumers 
via the Internet and e-mail.
This measure is especially important afier Ondoy and Pepeng. Thousands of 
vehicles damaged by these typhoons could be sold across the country as used cars that 
have been cosmetically altered to appear almost new.1
1 This bill was originally filed during the Fourteenlh Congress, Third Regular Session.
*
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s. No. 
a n i 8
J&riutr
f f i l f i f i  t»* t h *1
rTftaty
15 NOV 26 P4 57
WIVKDIIV:
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
TO REGULATE AND PROVIDE STANDARDS FOR 
THE MANUFACTURE AND SALE OF MILK AND DAIRY PRODUCTS
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Milk is a nutritive substance obtained from various animals and consumed by 
humans. The common concept of milk is that which is obtained from dairy cows, 
although milk from goats, water buffalo, and reindeer is also used in various parts of the 
world. In many industrialized countries, raw cow*s milk is processed before it is 
consumed. During processing the fat content of the milk is adjusted, various vitamins are 
added, and potentially harmful bacteria are killed. In addition to being consumed as a 
beverage, milk is also used to make butter, cream, yogurt, cheese, and a variety of other 
dairy products.1
Milk is the most complete food designed to feed growing children. It is easily 
digested and little is wasted. It is a good source of protein, carbohydrates, fat, vitamins A 
and D, and minerals such as calcium and phosphorous which arc essential for the body's 
growth and development. Older adults likewise benefit from regular milk consumption. A 
large glass a day of fortified milk may provide a simple, inexpensive, and effective way 
to slow or stop age-related bone loss.
1 http://www.ma'dehow.conWolumc-4/MilIchtm!
O
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s. No. 
3 2 in
^
 
S r n n tr
tQ lfirr of til*  J j'fT ria tK
•16 FEB-2 P6 21
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
INCREASING AWARENESS ABOUT SPORTS-RELATED 
TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURIES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
While sports-related injuries do not always cause death, the leading cause of death 
from these injuries is traumatic brain injury. A traumatic brain injury (TBI) may be 
defined as a blow or jolt to the head, or a penetrating head injury that disrupts the normal 
functions of the brain. TBI may result when the head violently and suddenly hits an 
object, or when something pierces the skull and enters brain tissue. Symptoms of TBI can 
be mild, moderate, or severe, depending on the extent of the brain damage. Mild cases 
may result in a brief change in a person’s mental state or consciousness, while severe 
cases may lead to extended periods of unconsciousness, coma, or even death.
Boxing is an example of a very popular local sport where the participants are at 
risk of suffering from brain damage. Professional and amateur boxers can suffer 
permanent brain damage over time. The strength of a professional boxer’s fist 
approximates the force of being hit with a 13-pound bowling ball traveling at 20 miles 
per hour, or about 52 times as strong as gravity.
Based on a study by the Journal of Combative Sport, from the period January of 
I960 to August of 2011, 488 boxing-related deaths have been recorded. The study 
attributes 66 percent of these deaths to head, brain, or neck injuries, while one was 
attributed to a skull fracture. While some boxers are just slightly affected, there are those
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE 
S. No. 
a  1*70
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
S r n n tr
V
*16 JAN 28 P3M7
m :n:ivi:f) iiy:
AN ACT
AMENDING REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8794, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS 
AN ACT IMPOSING A MOTOR VEHICLE USER’S CHARGE 
ON OWNERS OF ALL TYPES OF MOTOR VEHICLES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Constitution, Article 2, Sections 27 and 28, provides:
Section 27. The State shall maintain honesty and integrity in the 
public service and take positive and effective measures against graft and 
corruption.
Section 28. Subject to reasonable conditions prescribed by law, the 
State adopts, and implements a policy of full public disclosure of all its 
transactions involving public interest.
The Motor Vehicles Users Charge, or more popularly known as Road Users’ Tax, 
was promulgated in 2000. The Road Tax is the government’s third largest source of tax 
revenue, after the Bureau of Internal Revenue and the Bureau of Customs.
As it stands right now, the Road Fund is an automatically appropriated earmarked 
revenue. It does not need the ycar-by-year appropriation from Congress. Its budget is not 
a matter of congressional approval, but a mere matter of matliematical computation. With 
or without the General Appropriations Act (GAA), the total revenue collected by the 
Land Transportation Office (LTO) is remitted and deposited to the four accounts, 
according to the percentages prescribed by law, and are then spent by the Road Board 
without sufficient safeguards from Congress. Thus, there is a need to change the nature of 
the funds from one which is automatically appropriated to one which requires distinct and 
separate appropriations.
1
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES ) 
Third Regular Session)
y.X-lP l O t l . f c  
r r t ; i r V
•16 JI\H 18 P2-46
SENATE
SENATE BILL NO. 3 0 8 G
KiX'\:\\ i:i.» liY;..
Prepared by the Committees on Urban Planning. Housing and Resettlement: Civil Scrx'ice, 
Government Reorganization and Professional Regtdation; and Finance with Senators Marcos. 
Lcgarda. Ejercito Estrada and Ejerdto as authors.
AN ACT CREATING THE DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SETTLEMENT AND URBAN 
DEVELOPMENT, DEFINING ITS MANDATES, POWERS AND FUNCTIONS, 
PROVIDING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
assembled:
CHAPTER I
TITLE, VISION AND POLICIES
1 
SEC 1. Title. -  This act shall be known as the “Department of Human Settlement and Urban
2 
Development Act of 20I6*\
3 
SEC 2. Declaration of Policies- The state shall, by law and for the common good undertake, in
4 
cooperation with the private, a continuing program of housing and urban development which
5 
shall make available at affordable cost, decent housing and basic services to underprivileged and
6 ^ homeless citizens in urban centers and resettlement areas. It shall also promote adequate
7 
employment opportunities to such citizens. In the implementation of such program, the state
8 
shall respect the rights of small property owners.
9 
Tlie state shall pursue the realization of a modem, humane, economically viable and,
10 
environmentally-sustainable society where the urbanization process is manifest in towns and
11 
cities being centers of productive economic activity and is led by market forces; where urban
12 
areas have affordable housing, sustainable physical and social infrastructure and services
13 
facilitated under the democratic and decentralized system of governance; and where urban areas
14 
provide the opportunities for an improved quality of life and eradication of poverty.
15 
Poor dwellers in urban or rural areas shall not be evicted nor their dwelling demolished,
16 
except in accordance with law.
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
Senate
*16 JAN 20 P6®5
SENATE
s.B. No. 
3089
UKCEIVED BY;
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benfgno "Bam* A. AquIn&IV.
’• L m  M a
AN ACT
PROHIBITING GOVERNMENT OFFICES AND AGENCIES FROM DENYING CITIZENS ACCESS TO 
FRONTLINE SERVICES AND ATTENDANCE IN PRIVATE OR PUBLIC MEETINGS ON THE BASIS OF
ATTIRE
Explanatory Note
W ith the Philippines fast becoming the rising star o f Asia and the rest o f the world, It is 
our mandate to build an Inclusive and prosperous country for all Filipinos.
We have made strides to  build an Improved society through policies that uplift and 
empower the marginalized sectors. However, we often overlook the seemingly trivial but unjust 
hurdles many Filipinos face on a dally basis, such as their Inability to  adhere to unnecessary 
government regulations.
Tragically, not every Filipino can afford to  buy shoes and more formal clothing. But 
every Filipino should be permitted to  participate In assemblies that affect them and their 
community, particularly legislative hearings and sessions. All Filipinos must be granted access to 
frontline services, especially from public offices.
Unfortunately, needless dress code policies serve as barriers to many o f our 
marginalized Filipinos as they seek to  become more participative and Vightfully demand 
services. How can they raise their voice when th e /re  standing In the heat and behind cold 
walls? These are the countrymen we are called to serve. Thus, it Is high tim e to open our 
government offices and be more considerate o f our policies for all Filipinos, regardless o f our 
economic status.
The Philippine Government Agency Open Door Act o f 2016 alms to mandate all 
government offices to accept entry to  all Filipinos and to eliminate the dress code that some 
government agencies and units are following.
We are called to open the doors to  those that have the least In our society, those we 
have the most to learn from, and those that we desperately need to hear. We have the 
opportunity and a duty to  generate policies that contribute to a nation that Is fair, just, and 
inclusive. We have a responsibility to create a Philippines where all Filipinos, even minorities 
and marginalized sectors can live free from discrimination.
In view o f the foregoing, the passage o f this measure Is e a r i^ ly  sought.Ck\Av\X'
Senator Paolo Benigno "BaVn" A. Aquino IV