bettergovph/raw-philippine-data huggingface dataset:
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
ffir# of 111 f - ct i i * r  ^
'16 JUL 20 P3«2
SENATE
KK( i ; ‘ ‘
1
S.B. No. 
655
f * PY: 
/
_1
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT
ESTABLISHING A PHILIPPINE HIGH SCHOOL FOR SPORTS 
AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREOF
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The development of grassroots sports in the country has long been overdue. 
In order to be able to compete internationally on a sustained level in the different 
sports, a basic education program is needed that is focused and specialized for the 
youth who have the gifts and potential.
While many of our students have proved their excellence in mathematics, 
science, languages, and other subjects, we have also seen many young Filipinos who 
have achieved excellence through sports.
Our young athletes have paved their own roads to victory and international 
acclaim. Our country is home to world champions in boxing, bowling, swimming, 
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, shooting, and wushu, among others.
We have the opportunity to support young athletes and provide them 
valuable education along with quality sports training through the passing of the 
Philippine High School for Sports (PHSS) Bill.
The PHSS will offer, on a scholarship basis, a secondary course with special 
emphasis on developing the athletic skills of the students through subjects 
pertaining to physical education and sports development.
It will then enable student-athletes to gain their secondary education while 
ensuring opportunities for their training, exposure and participation to sports 
competitions.
For a sports-loving nation like the Philippines, it is apt that an establishment 
of a high school for sports where the future Gilas and Azkals are honed, and future 
Paeng Nepomucenos and Eric Buhains are developed.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
IS
■16 
JUL21 
A ll-.01
S E N A T E
S. B. No. 757
H K (  ..iV
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT
AMENDING ARTICLES 363 AND 364 OF ACT NO. 3815,
AS AMENDED, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE REVISED PENAL CODE
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This bill seeks to increase the penalty of the crime of incriminatory machination, 
amending for the purpose Article 363 and 364 of the Revised Penal Code, to deter 
persons from committing the same due to the increased penalty.
The Revised Penal Code defines incriminatory machinations by two distinct 
crimes, to wit, incriminating innocent person and intriguing against honor. 
Incriminating innocent person is committed by any person who, by any act not 
constituting perjury, shall directly incriminate or impute to an innocent person the 
commission of a crime, while intriguing against honor is committed by any person who 
intrigues another for the principal purpose of blemishing the honor or reputation of a 
person.
By its nature, incriminatory machinations refer to acts done for mere vexing, 
harassing or injuring one's adversary and which tend to directly cause false 
prosecution. The present penalties imposed by the law are not commensurate to the 
injury or damage caused to the victim of false prosecution and intrigue. There is 
d-ierefore a need to punish with greater severity individuals who are found guilty of 
incriminatory machinations.
This bill aims to do just that by increasing the penalty for incriminating innocent 
persons from arresto mayor or imprisonment for one month and one day to six months, 
to prision mayor, which means imprisonment from six years and one day to twelve 
years. The bill likewise increases the penalty for intriguing against honor from arresto 
menor or imprisonment for 1 to 30 days, to prision correccional, which means 
imprisonment from 6 months and one day to six years.
In view of the foregoing, immediate passage of the bill is earnestly sought.
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
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SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E
S.B. NO. 410
• 
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^
‘16 JUL 18 P6 :26
Kf < iJ V F ii liv
In tro d u ced  by SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA
AN ACT AMENDING TITLE I, CHAPTER 3, OF EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 209, 
OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE FAMILY CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES, 
PRESCRIBING AN ADDITIONAL GROUND FOR ANNULMENT
Explanatory Note
Executive Order No. 209 (E.O. No. 209), otherwise known as The Family Code of 
the Philippines, currently lists lack of parental consent, insanity, fraud, force, 
intimidation, or undue influence, impotence, and sexually transmissible diseases 
as valid causes for annulment, yet all allegations therefor are subject to court 
investigations. Parties seeking annulment thus require legal counsel for 
assistance in filing petitions and substantiating claims. Hence, annulment is 
widely considered a lengthy, tedious, and financially exhaustive procedure.
Despite its high cost in funds and time, many Filipinos stfll pursue annulment 
since it severs a union while allowing remarriage. The most recent records from 
the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) attest to an Increasing number of 
annulment cases in the Philippines. A total of 10,528 annulment cases were filed 
with the OSG last 2012, as opposed to the 9,133 filed in 2011. These figures 
present an opportunity to dispense with the backlog of cases and culture of delay 
besieging lower courts.
This bill addresses such concerns by providing an additional ground for 
annulment under Title 1, Chapter 3 of E.O. No. 209. Given that both parties 
mutually seek the annulment and can furnish documents proving a separation 
period of at least 5 years, no judgment on the pleadings, summary judgment, or 
confession of judgment shall be necessaiy. The separation period is crucial as 
the ultimate expression of the couple’s desire for an annulment.
This amendment likewise caters to those who cannot afford legal services by 
making litigation as simple and expedient as possible.
In view of the foregoing, the early passage of this bill is earnestly requested.
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S. No. 
104
L<l> TIME:
BILLS S II
Introduced by Senator Richard “ D ick” J. G ordon
AN ACT REQUIRING ALL GOVERNMENT-ISSUED CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, 
AND IDENTIFICATION CARDS TO PROVIDE THE CORRECT BLOOD TYPE OF THE 
PERSON THEREIN, AND PROVIDING A PENALTY FOR VIOLATION THEREOF
EXPLANATORY NOTE
A person’s correct blood type is vital information that can save lives. Knowing the 
correct blood type of a person during medical emergencies, especially in times of 
disaster, allows immediate action, including blood transfusion if necessary.
Blood received in a transfusion must have the same antigens as the donee’s 
blood. If two different blood types are mixed together, the blood cells may begin to 
clump together in the blood vessels, with antibodies in the donee's plasma destroying 
the donor blood cells and causing a potentially fatal situation. Thus, it is important that 
blood types must be matched before blood transfusions and transplantation procedures 
take place. If the recipient and donor are of different blood types, transplantation has 
been proven to present challenging considerations for transfusion both during and after 
the procedure.
This bill proposes to require all certificates, licenses, and identification cards 
issued by the government to provide the correct blood type of the person therein. Any 
person who provides or causes to provide false blood type information with malice or 
gross negligence shall be penalized. Through this bill, the safety of citizens in case of 
any medical emergency is ensured, it will also aid blood banks such as those 
maintained by the Philippine Red Cross and hospitals to effectively and efficiently 
dispense their blood services.
RICHAI
DICK” J. GORDON
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E
30G
S.B. No.
RECEIVED
I
dateJUL
BILLS & INDE
In tro d u ce d  by Sen. Juan M iguel F. Z ubiri
AN ACT
FORTIFYING THE PEOPLE'S RIGHT OF OWNERSHIP OVER INFORMATION 
HELD BY THE PEOPLE'S GOVERNMENT
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Article III, Section 7 of the Constitution states that it is the public’s right 
to obtain information on matters of public concern, as provided, access to official 
records, and to documents and papers pertaining to official acts, transactions, or 
decisions, as well as to government research data used as basis for policy 
development, shall be afforded the citizen, subject to such limitations as may be 
provided by law.
For the past years, public has been clamoring for the passage of a law 
that will give them full access to information and public disclosure of official 
documents. Though this august chamber never fails to heed to public's demand 
on the matter, as it pass every congress the Freedom of Information (FOI) bill 
but because of the complexities of a bicameral congress, the enactment of such 
Important piece of legislation has always been denied. With the new 
administration's commitment to abhor secrecy and its desire for transparency to 
regain the people's trust, FOI will no longer be just a dream for the Filipino 
people.
Accordingly, an Executive Order on Freedom of Information has been 
drafted and may be ready for signing by President Rodrigo Duterte, but such will 
only apply to offices under the executive branch. If such is the case, an FOI law 
with broader coverage that will require all government entities, including those in 
the legislature and judiciary, to release documents detailing their transactions 
and projects.
The proposed measure seeks to mandate public disclosure of official 
documents. It also outlined the exceptions to such disclosures and the 
procedures for obtaining official documents.
This measure is long overdue. More than 29 years since the Filipino 
people overwhelmingly ratified our present Constitution, Congress must continue 
to strive to increase both reliability and accuracy of this aspect of government 
and improve the rate at which our citizens exercise their "Right to Information" .
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SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S. No.
SENATE
840
o f ttnr.,;/!''>r r r '. u ^
'16 
JUL21 
P 3 :1 2
U IC K
' " ' T
1
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto
AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR A MAGNA CARTA FOR THE ROAD TRANSPORTATION 
SECTOR
Explanatory Note
The Philippine Constitution mandates the protection and enhancement of the right of 
all people to human dignity and the reduction of social and economic inequities. The State 
also guarantees the rights of all sectors, including those in the road transportation industry, to 
participate in the policy and decision making processes affecting their rights and benefits as 
provided by law.
Transportation impacts every economic and social activity. It provides the physical 
link among people, products and services. 1 It is therefore legitimate and indispensable to 
safeguard an industry that is vital to economic growth, social development, prosperity and, 
ultimately, peace and which plays a crucial role in everyone’s life by meeting the demand for 
the sustainable mobility of both people and goods.2
For the past four decades, the perennial problems of the road transportation industry 
remain unsolved. 
The high cost of fuel, abusive traffic law enforcers, problems in the 
issuance of franchise of public utility vehicles, colorum vehicles, poor road conditions, 
traffic congestion, and air pollution greatly affect the road transportation sector.
This measure aims to provide for the institutionalization of the participatory 
mechanisms for the road transportation sector by including at least one representative from 
the sector in the governing boards of government instrumentalities in the national and local 
level.
As a piece of legislation that intends to empower and comprehensively protect the 
rights of the road transportation sector, particularly the road transportation workers, the 
following provisions are included:
a) Creation of a Road Incident Complaints and Investigation Office;
b) Free legal assistance, counseling and representation for indigent members of the 
road transportation sector; and
c) Mandatory enrollment of road transportation workers in employee benefits such as 
Social Security System, Philhealth and Pag-IBIG Fund.
Likewise, the proposed legislation aims to promote and develop the road 
transportation sector by providing short-course trainings to be designed and conducted by the 
Technical Education and Skills Development Authority; putting up free common
1 http://www.neda7.net.ph/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Chapter-3B-Infrastructure.pdf
http://www.iru.org/en_about-road-transport
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
)
S E N A T E  
S. B. No. 225
fj> 
TIM E: 
4-VA
B IL L S  ft  INDEX
Introduced by Senator FRANKLIN M. DRILON
AN ACT
ESTABLISHING THE FISCAL REGIME AND REVENUE SHARING 
ARRANGEMENT FOR LARGE-SCALE METALLIC MINING
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Executive Order No. 79 dated 6 July 2012 requires a new legislation 
rationalizing existing sharing schemes on mining revenues. This is pursuant to the 
recommendation of the Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation and Economic 
Development Clusters in a Joint Resolution dated 16 March 2012 setting the 
direction and laying the foundation for the implementation of Responsible Mining 
Policies, foremost among which is to improve environmental mining standards and 
increase revenues to promote sustainable economic development and social growth, 
both at the national and local levels.
This Bill proposes a fiscal regime and revenue sharing arrangement between 
the Government and the mining Contractor for large-scale metallic mineral mining 
operations, wherein the Government Share shall be ten percent (10%) of Gross 
Revenue or fifty-five percent (55%) of the Adjusted Net Mining Revenue (ANMR), 
whichever is higher. In the event that the ANMR Margin exceeds fifty percent (50%) 
due to increase in metal prices or other factors, the Government, as owner of th ^  
mineral, shall get fifty-five percent (55%) of the threshold ANMR plus sixty percent 
(60%) on the excess ANMR. Adjusted Net Mining Revenue is arrived at after 
deducting from Gross Revenue the allowable deductible expenses.
Payment to the Government shall be in lieu of all national and local taxes 
including corporate income tax, royalty for indigenous cultural communities (ICCs), 
duties on imported specialized capital mining equipment, fees for mayors and/or 
business permits and other fees and charges imposed by the host LGUs. 
The 
Contractor shall pay real property tax, value added tax, capital gains tax, stock 
transaction tax, documentary stamp tax, withholding tax on passive income, donor’s 
tax, environmental fee. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) fee, water usage 
fee, and administrative and judicial cost and penalty.
The Government Share shall be allocated as follows: sixty percent (60%) to 
the National Government and forty percent (40%) to the Local Government Units. If 
the contract area is in an ancestral domain, the royalties for the ICCs shall be taken 
from the Government Share. Thereafter, the Net Government Share shall be 
allocated to the NG and the LGUs at the ratio stated earlier.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
(Q ffift of th
'1 6  
J U L 2 1  
A10 5 8
S. B. No.
S E N A T E
754
Ki < : 
’»V:
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT
AMENDING CERTAIN SECTIONS OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7309, ENTITLED, "AN 
ACT CREATING A BOARD OF CLAIMS UNDER THE DEPARTMENT OF 
JUSTICE FOR VICTIMS OF UNJUST IMPRISONMENT OR DETENTION AND 
VICTIMS OF VIOLENT CRIMES AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES"
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Board of Claims was created to resolve applications for claims for 
compensation by victims of unjust imprisonment, detention and victims of violent 
crimes. However, compensation provided, as well as funding allocation, since its 
creation in 1992 has remained the same and is thus insufficient as proper compensation 
in present times.
This bill aims to reasonably compensate, at least financially, the loss suffered by 
the victims of unjust imprisonment by increasing the compensation of victims of unjust 
imprisonment or detention and victims of violent crimes authorized under Republic Act 
No. 7309 from P1,000 to P3,000 per month, while providing guidelines for establishing 
such claims. This bill also proposes increasing amiual funding and increased allocation 
for the Victims Compensation Fund.
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session
SENATE
r.
S.B. No. 37
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VBILLS */IMDEX
In tro d u ced  by SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA
AN ACT CREATING THE DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN 
DEVELOPMENT 
(DHUD), 
DEFINING 
ITS 
MANDATES, 
POWERS, 
AND 
FUNCTIONS, PROVIDING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
Explanatory Note
The Philippine housing sector is replete with enormous challenges, spanning 
the issues of ever-increasing need for affordable housing provisions, limited 
access to housing finance, the need for more sustainable housing solutions, 
and more recently, the need to relocate families and households to safer 
grounds on account of the increasing threats of disasters.
The country's housing sector was never without the requisite attention and 
support from the national government. Numerous housing programs have 
emerged, together with the corresponding increase in the number of key shelter 
agencies that were charged with the responsibility of providing adequate and 
affordable housing to the country's homeless and poor families.
The country needs a more integrated approach in addressing housing needs 
and its related issues. Local government units need to be capacitated in ways 
that they can effectively respond to the growing housing needs. Urbanization 
and its numerous opportunities and challenges need to be addressed with 
greater efficiencies and 
stronger cooperation among agencies of the 
government.
This measure seeks to create a Department of Housing and Urban 
Development that shall be charged with the responsibility of shepherding a 
more coordinated and efficient national shelter program.
In view of the foregoing, the passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
LORElTtEGARDA
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
)
v. 
r •; '' ■ ''
k 
■
■-y1
S. No.
SENATE
500
j  
JUL U i 
:V.i :4 9
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
ESTABLISHING 
THE 
NATIONAL 
LABOR 
RELATIONS 
COMMISSION 
DEVELOPMENT FUND AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
In recognition of the judiciary's significant role in the country. Republic Act No. 9227 was 
signed in 2003, providing for additional compensation to justices, judges and all other 
positions in the judiciary in the form of special allowances.
Attached to the Department of Labor and Employment for program and policy coordination, 
the National Labor Relations Commission (NLRC) is a quasi-judicial body tasked to 
expeditiously resolve labor disputes thru the process of mediation, conciliation and 
compulsory arbitration. Just like the judiciary, NLRC also plays a vital role in the 
government's program of promoting and maintaining industrial peace through dispensation of 
labor justice and development of effective dispute settlement machinery.
Under R.A. 9347, the NLRC Chairman, Commissioners and the Labor Arbiters have been 
entitled to the same allowances, retirement and benefits as those of the Presiding Justice and 
Associate Justices of the Court of Appeals. However, even with the passage of this law, the 
Commission's Chairman and members had not been able to receive the said allowances and 
benefits due to them because of lack of funding.
This problem is no different from the difficulties some other agencies are experiencing. Yet, 
with the passage of laws establishing Special Funds for particular agencies in the country, 
such as the Granting of Special Allowances in Public Attorney's Office and Office of the 
Solicitor General under R.A. 9406 and R.A. 9417 respectively, problems brought about by 
funding are now gradually being resolved.
In this light, a similar law that will address the NLRC's predicament through authorizing 
them to administer fund for their additional compensation is positively needed.
Intending to implement the provision of Republic Act No. 9347 regarding salaries and other 
emoluments of the NLRC's Chairman and members, this measure seeks to establish a
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S. B. No.
SENATE
272
THE
RECEIVED ,
*°DATBiyLliiOlf
rtO TIME: 
Oilml
BY:
BILLS & INDEX0 !
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT
STRENGTHENING PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 1096, THE NATIONAL 
BUILDING CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES, AS AMENDED, BY MANDATING A 
COMPREHENSIVE NATIONWIDE INSPECTION OF BUILDINGS AND 
IMPOSING STIFF PENALTIES AGAINST BUILDING OFFICIALS WHO VIOLATE 
THE PERTINENT PROVISIONS OF THE SAID CODE
EXPLANATORY NOTE
In light of growing public concerns on the impact of geologic hazards to the 
structural integrity of infrastructures in the country - such as residential houses and 
buildings - a comprehensive review of the National Building Code is being mulled.
However, anecdotal evidence suggests that the cause of concern should start 
with the false issuance of building permits, clearances, certificates or certifications 
awarded to the contractor by government building officials prior to the actual 
construction of the structure. Consequently, this practice projects a false sense of safety 
to the residents and tenants of said structures.
In the interest of the public, the urgency of this bill cannot be understated, and 
thus deserves immediate consideration and approval.
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
ti
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
1 
)
/V 
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ftiiii-if. fii
($ fli(s of 
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*16 JUL20 P2 52
SENATE
S.B. No. 
648
U K r i v  V I ' i I n \:
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT PROVIDING ADDITIONAL ASSISTANCE TO OVERSEAS FILIPINO WORKERS BY 
AMENDING REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8042, AS AMENDED BY REPUBLIC ACT 10022, OTHERWISE 
KNOWN AS THE MIGRANT WORKERS AND OVERSEAS FILIPINOS ACT OF 1995
EXPLANATORY NOTE
From the malls of Hong Kong to the souqs of the Middle East and even on massive 
vessels navigating through borderless seas, you'll find talented Filipinos diligently \A/orking to 
build a brighter future for their family.
They aren't only keeping their loved ones above water financially; they are also 
keeping the Philippine economy afloat with remittances reaching $16.21 billion or P764 
billion from January to August 2015.
Even with their contribution, Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) remain vulnerable to 
poor working conditions and abusive employers.
In addition, their employment abroad is no guarantee of financial success.
In a survey conducted by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas last September 2015, only 
38.2% of the 563 household-respondents said that a portion of the money from OFWs are 
set aside for savings.
There are still too many OFWs that come home without a plan for retirement. 
Keeping in mind our duty to empower and uplift every Filipino, the OFW Protection Act 
bolsters our support for the OFW community and the families they leave back home.
This measure ensures our OFWs safety by strictly monitoring and assessing 
accredited partner agencies and mandating the Public Attorney's Office to establish a help­
desk in every international port of exit in the Philippines to offer legal service, assistance 
and advice to departing migrant workers.
Acknowledging the immense power in access to credible information, this measure 
orders effective and efficient information dissemination on labor, employment, and 
migration data through various mediums, including social media.
.^enatp
($ ffire  o f 
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SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S.NO.S88
'16 JUL19 P5:17,
K*-' 
' 
'W:
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
ESTABLISHING A PROGRAM FOR PUBLIC EDUCATION ON PROSTATE 
CANCER
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Section 15 of Article II under the 1987 Constitution provides that the State shall protect and 
promote the right to health of the people and instill health consciousness among them. 
However, reports on prostate cancer showed the opposite. Philippine Council for Health 
Research and Development reported that prostate cancer is the "third most common male 
cancer in the entire world and half a million new cases continue to be diagnosed every year.” 
Moreover, it is one of the top five cancers among men in the Philippines.
Cancer of the prostate does not show early symptoms. Even without symptoms, this form of 
cancer that may be detected during a medical examination while in its early stage. This is the 
reason why men, particularly those who are 40 years and older, should be educated on the 
importance of a regular check-up, including a digital (finger) rectal prostate examination once 
or twice a year, even those without symptoms, to catch prostate cancer before it spreads. If 
treated early, ten years after the treatment, 65 out of a hundred are still alive and well. In 
consonance with this, the Department of Health is hereby mandated to carry out the 
provisions of this bill.
In view of the foregoing, the passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
ANTONJIO “SONNY” F.
'  
Senator
TRJLLANES IV
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES ) 
FIRST REGULAR SESSION 
)
S B. No.
SENATE
146
BILLS &
Introduced by SENATOR CYNTHIA A. VILLAR
AN ACT
CREATING 
THE 
DEPARTMENT 
OF 
MIGRATION 
AND 
DEVELOPMENT, 
DEFINING 
ITS 
POWERS 
AND 
FUNCTIONS, 
APPROPRIATING 
FUNDS 
THEREFORE, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The presence of Filipinos in other countries is certainly not miniscule. As of 
December 2013, the Commission on Filipino Overseas estimated hat there are 
around 10.2 million* 1 Filipinos overseas, mostly as migrant workers; and their 
numbers are constantly growing. Every year, more than one million Filipinos leave 
the country to work abroad, carrying their auspicious hopes and dreams for
theirfamilies. 
Rather than remain in the country eking out a living and earning a 
measly income, many will choose to live away from their loved ones and endure 
tough working conditions for higher wages and salaries.
The contribution of the Filipinos working overseas to the Philippine economy is 
likewise not miniscule. 
The Filipino migrant workers have been consistent dollar 
earners for the country. Their remittances are considered a significant contributor to 
the country’s gross domestic product, and their role in keeping the economy buoyant 
acknowledged as undisputable. 
Based on the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) 
figures, the cash remittances in 2015 sent via the formal banking networks by 
overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) amounted to $25.76 billion, while their personal 
remittances or those fund transfers that were not captured by the banking sector for 
the same year amounted to $28.5 billion.2
In keeping with the constitutional guarantee of giving full protection to labor, 
local and overseas alike3, the government has established the Philippine Overseas 
Employment 
Administration 
(POEA) 
and 
the 
Overseas 
Workers 
Welfare 
Administration (OWWA) in order to protect and enforce the welfare and rights of our 
Filipino migrant workers.
http;//www. cfo.gov. ph/images/stories/pdf/StockEstimate2013. pdf 
! http://www.mb.com.ph/ofw-remittances-reach-25-8b-in-2015/
1 Section 3, Article XIII, 1987 Philippine Constitution
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
i -( !!'<
‘16 
finr, -3 
[■' 7 ;> 7
SENATE
S.B. No. 
B 7 2
Introduced by Senator SONNY ANGARA
AN ACT
ESTABLISHING A FREE MEDICINE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM 
FOR THE POOR AND PROVIDING FUNDS THEREFOR
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Poor Filipinos still face the problem of limited access to essential medicines. As 
observed by the World Health Organization (WHO), the major causes of deaths in low-income 
countries can be treated effectively with simple essential medicines. The government must offer 
direct assistance to beneficiaries that do not have access to proper health care.
According to a 2009 WHO survey, medicines in the Philippines are more expensive 
compared to other Asian countries. There is still insufficient access to low cost, safe, and quality 
essential medicines among low-income families. This bill seeks to answer the problem of not 
being able to access affordable medicine.
Section 15, Article II of the Constitution mandates that the State shall protect and 
promote the right of the people to health. The government must have a comprehensive and 
integrated approach to health development with the end view of making essential health 
services available to all the people at affordable cost, giving priority to the needs of the 
underprivileged Filipinos.
Therefore, the immediate passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
SONNY ANGARA
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E  
S.B. No. 
ilO
DATeJim
Introduced by Senator Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III
AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE SHARE IN THE NATIONAL 
TAXES OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS, AMENDING FOR 
THIS PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT 
NO. 7160, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE LOCAL 
GOVERNMENT CODE OF 1991
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Article X, Section 6 of the 1987 Constitution provides that “local 
government units shall have a just share, as determined by law, in the 
national taxes which shall be automatically released to them.”
Section 284, Title III, Chapter I of the Local Government Code of 
1991 declares that the local government units (LGUs) shall have a share 
in the “national internal revenue taxes.”
This Bill, which I refer to as the “Bigger Pie, Bigger Slice” Bill, 
expands the source of funds for LGUs by changing “national internal 
revenue taxes” to “national taxes”, which is still, if not more, compliant 
with the above constitutional mandate.
As front liners in the delivery of government services, LGUs have 
been given numerous mandates but, most of the time, the resources to 
fulfill these mandates have been overlooked and have not been coming 
to the LGUs.
This Bill seeks to give LGUs more resources to make them fulfill 
their role as front liners to their respective constituents.
The Bill achieves this by including in the “pie” all the collections 
of the Bureau of Customs.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
SENATE
s.No. G28
*16 
JUL 19 
P 6  -21
U K ri',; ^ 
■ 'W :
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
CREATING THE POSITION/RANK OF FIRE TRUCK OFFICER (FTO) IN THE 
BUREAU OF FIRE PROTECTION
EXPLANATORY NOTE
When Republic Act No. 9263, also known as the "Bureau of Fire Protection and Bureau of 
Jail Management and Penology Professionalization Act of 2004", was enacted into law new 
and more stringent requirements were imposed for those intending to join the Bureau of Fire 
Protection (BFP) and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) to 
professionalize their ranks. RA 9263 was amended by RA 9592 last May 8, 2009 in order to 
adjust the requirements to allow the retention of existing personnel of both the BFP and 
BJMP.
Although these legislations proved to be beneficial to the concerned agencies, the updated 
standards pertaining to educational qualification and civil service eligibility have rendered it 
difficult for many applicants to qualify for entry-level positions at the BFP, particularly those 
aspiring to become Truck Drivers/Mechanics. This fact has resulted to fairly low employment 
rate in the said agency.
This is contrary to the lofty intentions of our Constitution, which seeks, among others, to 
enhance full protection to labor and to promote full employment and equality of employment 
opportunities for all.
Therefore, in accordance to the policy of the State, this bill is being proposed to address this 
issue by rationalizing the qualifications for the appointment to entry-level positions of the 
BFP, while upholding professionalism in the said agency.
It is hoped that the passage of this measure will open up more opportunities for qualified 
applicants who aspire to serve our country and our people as part of the uniformed personnel 
of the Bureau of Fire Protection.
In view of the foregoing, the immediate passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
ANTONy ? ^ O N ^ ” F/j^lLLANES IV
Senator
niaVL
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S. No. 576
*16 JllL 19 P5 -00
RKCLfVr . UY-
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
TO REQUIRE COUNTRY OF ORIGIN LABELING ON PRESCRIPTION AND 
OVER-THE-COUNTER DRUGS
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Article XIII, Section 12 of the Constitution provides the establisliment and maintenance of an 
effective food and drug regulatory system. It also emphasized the role of the State to 
undertake appropriate health, manpower development, and research that works for the 
advantage of the people.
With recent reports about the threats brought about by the products entering the country, it 
could not be concealed that the Filipino consumers need more protection from the 
government.
Laws in the United States deem a drug to be misbranded unless the labeling of such drug lists 
the identity of the country of manufacture of each active ingredient and each inactive 
ingredient of the drug, which is listed in descending order based on the percentage of the 
number of such ingredient in the final dosage form manufactured in such countries.
A law that guards the citizens of our countiy from potential risks caused by medications from 
other countries is a necessity. Labeling, for one, can provide infonnation concerning possible 
damage of imported medicines to consumers.
Intending to improve the labeling standards in view of protecting the health of Filipino 
citizens, this bill intends to require country of origin labeling on prescription and over-the- 
counter drugs.
In view of the foregoing, the immediate approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
ANTOWlQ^‘SONIW” F. TI^ILLANES IV
• 
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
c9i(ift of Ihc jS-ti’-: pf'it 1,
•16 
JIJL20 
P 4 :2 5
SENATE
S.B. No. 
694
Kl '
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT CREATING A SYSTEM OF FOOD PURCHASE SUPPORTING LOCAL PRODUCTION AND 
A PROGRAM OF DISTRIBUTION ADDRESSING THE NUTRITIONAL NEEDS OF CHILDREN
EXPLANATORY NOTE
"You cannot feed the mind on an empty stomach." This is a truth that millions of 
Filipinos know and feel all too well. Every day, millions of Filipino children trek to school, 
underfed and undernourished, yet expected to fully absorb the lessons of the day.
In a study called "The State of Food Insecurity in the World 2012", conducted by the 
Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), a total of 16 million Filipinos were considered 
undernourished 2010 to 2012, even as the number of chronically undernourished people 
dropped in all other Southeast Asian countries. Despite our growing economy, there are 
more underfed people in the Philippines today than there were two decades ago.
Meanwhile, another recent study on "the role of early childhood nourishment and 
health in connection with human capital accumulation", published by Dartmouth University 
in 2012, revealed that the long-term detrimental effects of childhood hunger have a greater 
impact on school children than the effects of substandard schooling, infrastructure, 
classrooms, and textbooks.
This is perhaps one of the main reasons why Filipino children continue to lag behind 
our Asian neighbors in standardized tests. How can we expect them to do well in school 
when we have not given their brains the proper nourishment and fuel for the tasks that lie 
ahead of them?
Thus, the proposed "Pagkaing Pinoy para sa Batang Pinoy" bill seeks to alleviate 
childhood malnutrition in the Philippines through a feeding program for infants, public 
kindergarten and elementary school children. It will promote the health of children who are 
most in need, by providing regular and free access to nutritious food within a safe and clean 
school and community environment.
The benefits of the bill do not end there. To enhance the social value of this 
proposed measure, the feeding program will utilize, when possible and available, locally- 
sourced and locally-produced food products in order also to support local farmers and
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES ) 
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E
S.B.No. 
12
DATE
BILLS
Introduced by Senator FRANKLIN M. DRILON
AN ACT
INSTITUTIONALIZING THE PANTAWID PAMILYANG PILIPINO 
PROGRAM TO ADDRESS POVERTY AND PROMOTE HUMAN 
CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The bill seeks to institutionalize the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino 
Program (4Ps) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development. As of 
May 27, 2015, the 4Ps has covered 4,424,705 eligible poor households and has 
become the third largest Conditional Cash Transfer program globally, next 
only to Brazil (8.8 million households) and Mexico (6.5 million households). 
Studies show that the program closed about V4 of the poor’s income gap 
thereby enabling the poor to move closer to the minimum income level.
Proven gains of the 4PS include: improved mothers’ access to maternal 
health by promoting pre-and post-natal care and deliveries in health facilities; 
improved children’s health and access to health care services particularly after 
availing of vitamin A, iron supplements, dewoming pills and undergoing 
regular weight monitoring in health care facilities; and better access to 
education by keeping children in school particularly those who are most 
vulnerable to drop out. In 2015 alone, the program was able to bridge 333,673 
children to finish high school.
In addition, the 4PS has become a platform for eligilbe poor households 
to benefit from other social protection programs through internal and external 
convergence. These include coverage under the National Health Insurance 
Program by the Philhealth Insurance Corporation, increased access to 
economic opportunities through employment facilitiation and micro­
enterprise development through Sustainable Livelihood Program, and entry 
into higher education institutions through the Students’ Grant-in-Aid 
Program in partnernship with the Commission on Higher Education, 
Department of Labor and Employment and State Universities and Colleges.
Hence, the immediate passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
. VKLINM. DRILON
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session
)
“  
I, 
«di(ire of il: ’ 
n i i.-n
’16 AII6-3 P7 :] 9
SENATE
S.B. No. 975
w  i 
'
Introduced by Senator SONNY ANGARA
AN ACT
PRESCRIBING THE MECHANISM TO FACILITATE THE DISPOSITION OF IDLE 
GOVERNMENT-OWNED LANDS FOR SOCIALIZED HOUSING
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The magnitude of current housing need, defined as the housing backlog plus new 
households, is is estimated to reach about 5.8 million housing units in 2016. In Metro Manila 
alone, the total backlog has been projected to reach 496,928 housing units.1 Given these 
statistics, the National Urban Development and Housing Framework (NUDHF) 2009- 2016 
considers the housing problem in the country to be serious.
The prevailing housing problem is evident in the proliferation of slums and informal 
settlements in the urban areas. Recent estimates show that more than a third of urban 
population are slum dwellers.
To address the housing needs, this bill seeks to identify and set aside inventoried idle 
government lands for socialized housing. The National Housing Authority (NHA), in coordination 
with the Land Management Bureau (LMB), is directed to identify idle lands owned by the 
national government or any of its subdivisions, instrumentalities or agencies, which have not 
been used for the purpose for which they have been reserved for the past ten (10) years, to be 
set aside for socialized housing. Moreover, at least 10 percent of government-owned land not 
set aside for socialized housing shall be sold, alienated, and encumbered for development 
purposes.
The population of the Philippines as of August 1, 2015 has grown to 100,981,437, based 
on the 2015 Census of Population (POPCEN 2015).2 It is continuously growing and along with 
this growth is the increase in the demand for housing. Thus, it is imperative that the government 
maximizes the use of available resources to address this need, especially of the poor and 
marginalized.
In view of the foregoing, the passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
SONNY ANGARA
1 http://www.neda.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/CHAPTER-5.pdf\
2 https://psa.gov.ph/content/highlights-philippine-population-2015-census-population
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
BILLS & INDEX
Introduced by SENATOR LEILA M. DE LIMA
AN ACT
EXTENDING TH E TERM OF OFFICE OF ELECTIVE BARANGAY 
OFFICIALS TO FIVE YEARS W ITH MAXIMUM OF TW O CONSECUTIVE 
TERMS, AND POSTPONING THE OCTOBER 2016 SYNCHRONIZED 
BARANGAY AND SANGGUNIANG KABATAAN ELECTIONS, AND FOR
OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
As the basic political unit in the country, the barangay serves as the front liner 
in delivering the basic and important services to the people. It offers direct and most 
immediate assistance and support to the community.
The barangay officials, including the Sangguniang Kabataan, therefore, play a 
crucial role in providing effective and accountable local governance. They are the 
effective partners of the national government in maintaining law and order, and in 
accelerating economic development throughout the country.
With this Herculean task, the present term of office for barangay elective 
officials may be too short for them to fully implement and realize their notable 
program of peace and development in their localities.
Hence, in order to promote continuity of service at the barangay level, and to 
insulate the elective officials from the vagaries of partisan politics, this bill seeks to 
extend the term of office for elective barangay officials from three (3) years to five (5) 
years with a maximum of two (2) consecutive terms, and to postpone the conduct of 
their elections from October 2016 to October 2018.
Given that the Commission on Elections is still reeling from the daunting task 
of accomplishing the requirements of the recently concluded national and local 
elections, the hiatus will likewise provide the poll agency sufficient time to prepare 
for the nationwide conduct of the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan synchronized 
elections.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
o f fb t^ P fT E ta ry i
•16 JUL 20 P4 53
SENATE
S. B. No. 714
HL:< ... * 
BY:
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT
DECLARING DECEMBER 25 - 31 AND JANUARY 1 AS SPECIAL NON-WORKING HOLIDAYS
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This bill seeks to institutionalize the observance of long holidays from December 25 - 
January 1 as special non-working days.
Section 26, Chapter 7, Book I of Executive Order No. 292, as amended, otherwise 
known as the "Administrative Code of 1987," lists among its regular holidays, January 1 as 
New Year's Day, December 25 being Christmas Day, December 30 as Jose Rizal Day, and 
December 31 as a nationwide Special Holiday being the last day of the year.
Excluding Saturday and Sunday, there are only two working days in the eight days 
affected by this bill. To make up for these two days, this bill seeks to also declare the two 
Saturdays preceding December 25 as regular working days, to avoid any productivity losses.
The proposed bill seeks to spur local tourism by extending the holiday period to 
include these eight days, thus encouraging citizens to plan travel vacations with family and 
friends.
In view of the foregoing, immediate approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
Senator I
)lo Benigno "Bam" A. Aquino IV
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OE 
THE REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session
)
SENATE
s.B. No. 
1 gn
iJUN 3 0
TIME:
BILLS &
Introduced by SENATOR SONNY ANGARA
AN ACT
AMENDING SECTION 24 OF THE NATIONAL INTERNAL REVENUE CODE 
OF 1997, AS AMENDED, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Our Constitution mandates that the "rule of taxation shall be uniform and etiuitable," 
and that the "Congress shall evolve a progressive system of taxation" wherein the tax 
rates imposed must be based on the person's ability to pay. Unfortunately, individual 
income tax rates and brackets in the country have remainecl unchanged since 1997 even 
when the consumer price index has more than doubled while inflation rate has steadily 
risen. Both factors have substantially decreased the purchasing power of ordinarv 
Filipinos.
Given our outdated and inequitable tax system, middle-income earners cire already at 
the top tax bracket and are paying the same tax rate as the billionaires in the country. 
This phenomenon is called "bracket creep" where taxpayers w Ik ) are not considered 
high earning are already pushed into high brackets. This bracket creep would lead to 
"fiscal drag" where people will not have any purchasing power left to contribute to the 
economy due to excessive taxation.
If we leave our brackets without provisions for indexation or automatic adjustment, at 
some point, even our young graduates who have just entered the workforce will fall 
into this highest bracket. If the status quo remains, the middle class will continue to be 
pulled down into lower-income groups despite an increase in their salaries because they 
are pushed up into higher tax brackets.
This bill, which aims to update and amend our tax system, is also in line with the 
Philippines' commitment to the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) Blueprint that 
would transform ASEAN into a single market and production base. While the ASEAN 
Blueprint does not mandate member countries to amend their income tax schedules, it 
is highly expected that human capital would flow to where it could earn best. When the 
AEC Declaration was signed in 2007, some member-states began to lower their 
corporate and individual income tax rates, with further reductions in the subsequent 
years.
This bill also aims to make the tax table consistent with RA 9504 which exempts the 
income of the minimum wage earners from income taxes. Thus, this bill sets the lowest 
tax bracket at P70/000 taxable income taking into consideration the prevailing minimum 
wage.