bettergovph/raw-philippine-data huggingface dataset:
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Second Regular Session 
0 
Senate Bill No. 
L 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. MANNY VILLAR 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Alzheimer's disease is a progressive, irreversible brain disorder with no 
known cause or cure. It attacks and slowly steals the minds of its victims. 
Symptoms of the disease include memory loss, confusion, impaired judgment, 
personality changes, disorientation, and loss of language skills. Always fatal, 
Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of irreversible dementia. 
In the Philippines, there is no specific figures to show how many Filipinos 
are suffering from this disease. However, this disease has become tragically 
common in the country albeit some people dismiss the same as merely 
forgetfulness due to old age. Due to the rapid growth of our elderly population, 
there is an urgent need to raise the awareness of the people and educate them 
as to the nature, the symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, care, and other service to 
the patient and hislher family. 
Accordingly, the approval of this bill is earnestly sought. 
3 


THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF 7'HE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Second Regular Session 
S E N A T E  
Senate Bill No. 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. MANNY VILLAR 
AN ACT 
DESIGNATING NOVEMBER OF EACH YEAR AS "ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE 
AWARENESS MONTH" 
;I- 
Ben enacted by fhe Senate and House of Represenfafives of the 
Philippines in Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Title- This Act shall be known and cited as the "Alzheimer's 
Disease Awareness Month". 
SECTION 2. The month of November is permanently designated as 
"AAlzheimer's Disease Awareness Month" in the Philippines. 
SECTION 3. The Department of Health shall urge all citizens to recognize 
"Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month" and shall provide encouragement and 
assistance to those organizations that offer educational, advocacy and support 
services for Alzheimer's victims and their caregivers. 
SECTION 4. lmplemenfing Rules and Regulations.- The Department of 
Health shall promulgate the appropriate rules and regulations necessary for the 
effective implementation of this Act within sixty (60) days from its approval. 
SECTION 5. Separability Clause.- If any provision or part thereof is held 
invalid or unconstitutional, the remainder of the law or the provision not otherwise 
affected shall remain valid and subsisting. 
SECTION 6. Repealing Clause.- Any law, presidential decree or issuance, 
executive order, letter of instruction, administrative order, rule or regulation 
contrary to or inconsistent with the provision of this Act is hereby repealed, 
modified or amended accordingly. 
SECTION 7. Effectivity Clause.- This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days 
after its publication in the Official Gazette or in at least two (2) newspapers of 
general circulation. 
Approved.
INTRODUCED BY HON. MANNY VILLAR 
____ 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The establishrnent of a National High School in the Municipality of Tubungan, Province 
of IlOilo, is well-timed. It responds to the on-going education program of government to provide 
adequate and attainable opportunities to young people in the far-flung areas. 
The need for education to raise the over-all command of life further underlies the 
importance of this measure. A progressive kind of education oriented towards both job skills and 
value such as that provided by the national government, can indeed lift community life to a 
comfortable level. 
With the establishment of a National High School, the government will bring a new vigor 
to community life in Tuhungan and its neighboring municipalities. 
In view ofthe foregoing considerations, early approval of this bill is earnestly sought. 


13TH CONGRESS 01' THE 
REPUBLIC OF TEE PHILIPPINES 
Second Regular Session 
SENATE 
S. No. 221fG 
-- 
IN'TRODUCED BY HON. MANNY VILLAR 
AN ACT ESTABLISHING A NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL IN THE MUNICIPALITY 
OF TUBUGAN, PROVINCE OF ILOILO TO BE KNOWN AS THE LANAG NORTE 
NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representalives of the Philippines in Congress 
assem bled: 
SECTION 1. There shall he established, under the supervision o f  the Deparlment 
Education, a National High School in the Municipality of Tubungan, Province of IloiIo, to be 
known as the Lanag Norte National High School. 
SECTION 2. The Secretary of Education shall take the necessary steps for the 
establishment of the school so as to make it operational during the first school term after the 
effectivity ofthis Act. 
SECTION 3. The amount necessary for implementation of this Act shall be charged to 
the appropriations of the Department o f  Education under the current General Appropriations Act. 
Thereafier, such sum as may be necessary for the operations and maintenance shall he included 
in the annual General Appropriations Act. 
~ SECTION 4. The amount necessary to carry for the effective implementation of this Act 
shall be charged to the appropriations for the Department of Health ,under the current General 
Appropriations Act. Thereafter, it shall be included in the annual General Appropriations Act. 


SECTION 5. This act shall take effect upon approval. 
Approved,
'.';ATE 
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THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES } 
Second Regular Session 
6 JUil -7 P 3 1: 
SENA JE 
INTRODUCED BY HON. MANNY VILLAR 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The bamboo has been called "green, gold" for centuries due to the benefits that 
In the Philippines, the bamboo has long served the country's economic needs. It 
is used in the construction of furniture, houses and other structures. It can also be a 
viable export commodity similar to the experience of the Peoples Republic of China. 
can be derived from them. 
< 
Furthermore, the bamboo has long been used to symbolize the resilience of the 
Filipino people. 
The passage of this bill is earnestly sought. 
MANNYVILL R 


THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES ] 
Second Regular Session 
SENATE 
. .. 
INTRODUCED BY HON. MANNY VILLAR 
AN ACT REQUIRING ALL LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS TO SET-ASIDE AREAS 
FOR MANDATORY BAMBOO PLANTING AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES 
Be it enacted by fhe Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1, All local government units are hereby required to set aside areas in 
their locality to be used for mandatory tree planting. 
SECTION 2. All persons, natural or juridical, applying for any permit or license in 
the said local government unit shall be required to plant bamboo in the areas hereby set 
aside. 
SECTION 3. The Department of Agriculture shall endeavor to make bamboo 
seedlings available in all local government units. 
SECTION 4. The implementing rules and regulations of this Act shall be 
formulated by department of Interior and Local Government after consultation with the 
Leagues of Provinces, Cities and Municipalities, the Department of Agriculture and 
Department pf Environment and Natural Resources. 
SECTION 5. This Act shall be effective fifteen (15) days after its publication in 
two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC) 
6 !,I/# 
15 p 5 :3Q 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
Second Regular Session 
) 
Introduced by Senator Manuel “Lito” M. Lapid 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The tradition of having close family ties among Filipinos understandably 
makes the life of every Overseas Contract Workers (OCWs) and their families 
living separately for years, hard to sustain. 
This could probably explain why the bulk of outgoing mails from the 
country go to Filipino OCW-rich countries in the Middle East. As per official 
records of the Central Mail Exchange Center of the Philippine Postal Corporation 
(Philpost), from January 2000 to June 2005, the total volume of outgoing mails 
bound for Middle East alone reached an estimate of 25 million or an average of 
at least 5 million mails a year. 
Granting franking privilege to the immediate family members of OCWs, 
can be an effective tool to inspire the remaining Filipino OCWs to keep going. 
The privilege will also serve as a way of showing our gratitude for their heroism. 
Besides, this would be a small price to pay if we are to compare what our OCWs 
have done for the Philippine economy. 
The immediate passage of this bill is earnestly sought. 


THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC) 
6 
i 5  ps :q 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
Second Regular Session 
) 
SENATE 
Introduced by Senator Manuel ”Lito” M. Lapid 
AN ACT 
GRANTING FRANKING PRIVILEGE TO THE IMMEDIATE FAMILY MEMBERS 
OF OVERSEAS CONTRACT WORKERS 
Be if enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Republic of 
the Philippines in Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Franking Privilege. - The immediate family members of 
Overseas Contract Workers (OCWs) are hereby granted franking privilege; 
Provided, that such mail shall be exclusively addressed to the name of their 
OCW-relative and at the country of destination where they are currently 
employed; Provided further, that this privilege shall cease immediately upon the 
return to the country of the OCW. 
SEC. 2. Coverage. - In order to avoid illegal Filipino migrants working 
overseas from benefiting from this Act, franking privilege shall only be extended 
to immediate family members of OCWs whose names are registered with or 
recognized by the Philippine Overseas Employment Agency (POEA). 
SEC. 3. OCWs Envelopes. - Envelopes to be used for mails availing of 
this franking privilege shall contain a distinct marking of “FILIPINO OCWs” and a 
penalty clause printed on the upper right-hand corner, to be devised by the 
Philippine Postal Office (PPO). 
SEC. 4. Internal Rules and Regulations. - The PPO together with the 
POEA shall issue the necessary implementing rules and regulations within thirty 
(30) days upon the effectivity of this Act. 


SEC. 5. Penalty Clause. - Unauthorized use of this franking privilege shall 
be penalized by a fine of Five Hundred Pesos (P500.00). 
SEC. 6. Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its 
publication in the Official Gazette and at least two (2) national newspapers of 
general circulation. 
Approved,
13TH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC ) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
1 
Third Regular Session 
1 
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The First District of Leyte coniprises the Municipalities of 
Alangalang, Babatngon, Palo, San Miguel, Sta. Fe, Tanaua, Tolosa and the 
City o f  Tacloban, the capital o f  the province and the acknowledged Regional 
Center of Region 8. The request for two additional branches is to address the 
growing demand for the immediate resolution of cases which presently clog 
the docklets and slow down the dispensation o f  justice in the area. The 
Leyteiios deserve expenditous resolutions of their legal problems. 
The density of cases being distributed among the five (5) courts is 
contributory to the slow disposition of cases and to the administration of 
justice in general. Hence, this bill seeks to create two (2) additional Regional 
Trial Court branches in the Eighth Judicial Region in Eastern Visayas, 
particularly in the City of Tacloban, Province of Leyte, in addition to the 
five (5) branches thereof in the First District o f  the aforementioned province. 
It is hoped that this proposal will greatly reduce the burden of the 
existing courts. In view thereof, the immediate passage of this bill is 


13TH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC ) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
1 
Third Regular Session 
) 
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto 
AN ACT CREATING TWO ADDITIONAL REGIONAL TFUAL COURT 
BRANCHES IN THE PROVINCE OF LEYTE TO BE STATIONED IN THE 
CITY OF TACLOBAN, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SECTION 14, 
PARAGRAPH (I) OF BATAS PAMBANSA BLG. 129, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS 
THE JUDICIARY REORGANIZATION ACT OF 1980, AS AMENDED, AND 
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR 
Be enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
assembled: 
SECTION 1. Section 14, paragraph (i) of Batas Pambansa Blg. 129, otherwise 
known as the “Judiciary Reorganization Act of 1980”, as amended, is hereby further 
amended to read as follows: 
“SEC. 14. 
Regional Trial Courts. - 
x x x  
“(e) [Forty-one] FORTY-THREE Regional Trial Court Judges shall be 
commissioned for the Eight Judicial Region. There shall be: 
“X x x 
[Seventeen] NINETEEN branches with seats thereat for the Province of 
Leyte, the [Sub-p] Province of Biliran, and the Cities of Ormoc and Tacloban, 
with seats at Tacloban City, Abuyog, Calubian, Ormoc City, Carigara, Baybay, 
Burauen, Naval, Palompon, Hilongos, and Caibiran; 
“x x x.” 
SEC. 2. 
The Supreme Court shall assign the two additional branches of the 
Regional Trial Court in the City of Tacloban, Province of Leyle in accordance with this 
Act. 


SEC. 3. 
The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court in coordination with the 
Secretary of the Department of Justice shall immediately include in the court’s program 
the operationalization of the additional Regional Trial Court branches in the Province of 
Leyte, with station at the City of Tacloban, the funding of which shall be included in the 
annual General Appropriations Act. 
SEC. 4. 
Approved, 
This Act shall take effect upon its approval.
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Second Regular Session 
S E N A T E  
Senate Bill No. 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. MANNY VILLAR 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
It is the right of every consumer to demand for an accurate weighing 
method of the consumable goods that he is buying. This is so because the price 
he is to pay for the product that he buys will depend on the weight of the said 
article. 
For those who are using or buying gasoline or diesel for the use of their 
vehicles, the quantity of the product that they buy is measured by the gasoline 
pump, the calibration of which is regulated by the Energy Regulatory Board 
(ERB). However, products like LPG which is sold to the public in various 
containers of different sizes, the weight of its content is left wholly to the dealer or 
distributor. 
The buyer has no way of determining whether the content in the LPG tank 
that he has received from the dealer has the correct weight and in most cases 
the buying public has to rely on the honesty and goodwill of the distributor or 
dealer. This is so because LPG dealers or distributors do not own any weighing 
scale. 
Under these circumstances, there is a clear need of legislation that will 
require every dealer or distributor of LPGs to have an available weighing scale or 
machine in his store or establishment to give chance to every consumer that he 
is paying for what is the proper weight of the LPG as advertised or as stated in 
the outer portion of the tank. 
In view thereof, we urge our colleagues to support the immediate approval 
of this bill. 
MANNYVIL AR 
f 


THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Second Regular Session 
Senate Bill No. 22'78 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. MANNY VILLAR 
AN ACT 
REQUIRING ALL RETAILERS OF LlQUlFlED PETROLEUM GAS (LPG) TO 
HAVE A SCALE OR WEIGHING MACHINE IN THEIR STORES OR 
ESTABLISHMENTS AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES 
Be enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the 
Philippines in Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Every retailer of Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) is required to 
have in his establishment or store one scale or weighing machine in order to give 
the buying public an opportunity to check the correctness of the weight of every 
LPG tank that they are buying; 
SECTION 2. In the event that the weight is lesser than what appears to be 
indicated in the LPG tank, the price shall be correspondingly reduced by the 
seller. 
SECTION 3. Any person who shall be found guilty of violating any of the 
provisions of Section 1 and 2 of this Act shall suffer a prison term of six (6) 
months and one (1) day plus a fine of One Thousand Pesos (PI ,000.00). 
SECTION 4. The Secretary of Trade and Industry shall promulgate such 
rules and regulations as may be necessary to implement the provisions of this 
Act within thirty (30) days after approval of this Act; 
SECTION 5. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its complete 
publication in (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPU 
Third Regular Session 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
S E N A T E  
Senate Bill No. 
Introduced by Senator Ramon Magsaysay, Jr. 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The 1987 Constitution promotes local autonomy. Towards this end, the 
fundamental law mandates local government units to create its own sources of revenues 
in consonance with right to an equitable share in the proceeds of the utilization and 
development of the national wealth within their respective areas, in the manner provided 
by law, including sharing the same with the inhabitants by way of direct benefits. 
Pursuant to this mandate, Congress passed several measures, among which are the 
Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001, the Department of Energy Act of 1992, and 
the Local Government Code of 1991. The pertineut provisions of these laws, however, 
fail to realize the expediency of sharing the benefits brought about by the proceeds of 
these revenues directly to the inhabitants of the concerned local government unit. This 
bill thus seeks to expedite the enjoyment by the inhabitants concerned the benefits from 
the proceeds of energy related project within a given locality. It introduces amendments 
to the aforementioned laws. 
Passage ofthis bill is therefore e 


THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC) 
Third Regular Session 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
S E N A T E  
Senate Bill No. 2 
Introduced by Senator Ramon Magsaysay, Jr. 
AN ACT 
REQUIRING ALL INDEPENDENT POWER PRODUCERS, GENERATION 
COMPANIES OR ENERGY RESOURCE DEVELOPERS TO REMIT THE 
AMOUT THEY ARE REQUIRED TO SET ASIDE AS FINANCIAL BENEFIT 
DIRECTLY TO THE HOST COMMUNITIES 
Be it enacted by ihe Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. All independent power producers, generation companies or energy 
resource developers, whether publicly or privately owned, shall remit directly to the local 
goverilment units or other host communities the benefits they are required to set aside as 
financial benefit to host communities pursuant to Section 66 of Republic Act No. 9136, 
otherwise known as the “Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001”, as defined in 
Sections 289 to 294, Chapter 11 of Republic Act No. 7160, otherwise known as the 
“Local Government Act of 1991”, the benefits defined in Section 5(i) of Republic Act 
No. 7638, otherwise known as the “Department of Energy Act of 1992” and Rule 29 of 
energy Regulations No. 1-94. 
SECTION 2. The use of the aforesaid amounts required by independent power 
producers, generation companies or energy resource developers to the host communities 
concerned shall remain subject to the guidelines set by the Department of Energy. 
SECTION 3. All laws, presidential becrees, executive orders, letters of 
instruction, rules and regulations or parts thereof inconsistent with the provisions of this 
Act are hereby repealed or modified accordingly. 


SECTION 4. This Act shall take effect immediately upon its complete 
publichthn in at least two newspapers of general circulation. 
hddroved.
13th Congress of the Republic ) 
of the Philippines 
1 
Third Regular Session 
1 
SENATE 
S B a 4  
Introduced by Senator Aquilino Q. Pimentel, Jr. 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
This bill proposes the amendment to Republic Act 157, An Act Creating A 
Bureau of Investigation (now known as the National Bureau of Investigation), 
Providing Funds Therefor, and for other purposes, as amended, by granting a 
fixed term of office of five years, without reappointment, to the Director of the NBI. 
The security of tenure of the NBI Director will help professionalize the NBI 
and boost its crime-fighting capability. The fixed term of office is intended to 
insulate the head of the NBI from pressures or influence from any individual or 
group that may undermine the performance of the investigative and law 
enforcement tasks of the Bureau. 
This will enhance'the Bureau's ability to perform its mandate with the 
highest standards of professionalism and impartiality. 
The approval of this bill is therefore e 


1 3th Congress of the Republic ) 
of the Philippines 
1 
3rd Regular Session 
) 
Introduced by Senator Aquilino Q. Pimentel, Jr. 
AN ACT AMENDING SECTION 2 OF REPUBLIC ACT ONE HUNDRED FIFTY 
SEVEN, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS AN ACT CREATING THE BUREAU OF 
INVESTIGATION (NOW KNOWN AS THE NATIONAL BUREAU OF 
INVESTIGATION), PROVIDING FUNDS THEREFOR, AND FOR OTHER 
PURPOSES, AS AMENDED 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the 
Philippines in Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Article 2 of Republic Act 157 is hereby amended to read as follows: 
Section 2. The National Bureau of Investigation shall be headed by 
a Director who shall be appointed by the President (of the Philippines) with 
the consent of the Commission on Appointments (of the Congress of the 
Philippines) FOR A 
TERM OF FIVE (5) YEARS WITHOUT 
REAPPOINTMENT, and shall receive an annual compensation (of seven 
thousand two hundred pesos) AS MAY BE PROVIDED BY LAW. 
SECTION 2. Any law, Presidential Decree, Issuance, Executive Order, Letter of 
Instruction, Administrative Order, Rule and Regulation contrary to or inconsistent 
with the provisions of this Act is hereby repealed, modified, or amended 
accordingly. 
SECTION 3. This Act shall take effect ten (IO) days following its complete 
publication in any national newspaper of general circulation. 
Approved,
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Second Regular Session 
S E N A T E  
Senate Bill No. 2 2 5 4 
Prepared by the Committees with Senators Osmeiia 111, War, Pimentel Jr., Arroyo, and 
Gordon as authors 
1 
2 
3 
4 
5 
6 
7 
8 
9 
10 
11 
12 
13 
14 
AN ACT 
ABOLISHING THE DEATH PENALTY" 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress assembled: 
The imposition of the penalty of death is hereby prohibited. 
Accordingly, Republic Act No. Eight Thousand One Hundred Seventy-Seven (R.A. 
8177), otherwise known as the Act Designating Death by Lethal Injection, is hereby 
repealed. Republic Act No. Seven Thousand Six Hundred Fifty-Nine (R.A. 7659), 
otherwise known as the Death Penalty Law, and all other laws, executive or 
administrative orders, decrees, rules and regulations, insofar as they impose the death 
penalty are hereby repealed or amended accordingly. 
SECTION 1. 
SEC. 2. In lieu of the death penalty, the following shall be imposed: 
(a) the penalty of reclusion perpetua, when the law violated makes use of the 
nomenclature of the penalties of the Revised Penal Code; or 
(b) the penalty of life imprisonment, when the law violated does not make use 
of the nomenclature of the penalties of the Revised Penal Code. 
SEC. 3. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in two (2) 
national newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES f 
Second Regular Session 
SENATE 
INTRODUCED BY HON. MANNY VILLAR 
EXPLANATORYNOTE 
In official recognition and tribute to the role and contribution of women in 
Philippine society, it is proposed that June 30 of every year be declared as a day of 
celebration to commemorate Philippine Feminism as well as the founding of the first 
formal national feminist organization in our country, the Association Feminista Filipina, 
on June 30,1905. 
MANLY 
VIL AR i 


THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES } 
Second Regular Session 
SENATE 
S. No. 2333 
INTRODUCED BY HON. MANNY VILLAR 
AN ACT DECLARING JUNE 30 OF EVERY YEAR AS A DAY OF CELEBRATION TO 
COMMEMORATE PHILIPPINE FEMINISM 
Be It enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. June 30 of every year is hereby declared a day of celebration to 
commemorate the founding of the first formal national feminist organization in our 
country, Association Feminista Filipina, on ,June 30, 1905. This special day shall also 
commemorate Philippine Feminism and accord due recognition to the invaluable roles 
that women have played in nation building, in the national struggle for freedom, and in 
advancing their status in society through the years. 
SEC. 2. This Act shall take effect on its approval. 
Approved,
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Second Regular Session 
S E N A T E  
Senate Bill No. 3
6
 
9 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. MANNY VILLAR 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Deaf-blindness is a unique disability that incorporates the sensory loss of 
both sight and hearing. Persons with this disability experience extreme isolation 
and the inability to access the services and information which most of us take for 
granted. 
It is appropriate to celebrate the achievements of deaf-blind persons and 
to recognize that increased public awareness of this disability is crucial to 
increase opportunities for those who live with it. 
n 
MANNYVILL R P 
J 


THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPIP4ES 
Second Regular Session 
S E N A T E  
INTRODUCED BY SEN. MANNY VILLAR 
AN ACT TO PROCLAIM 
THE MONTH OF JUNE AS DEAF-BLIND AWARENESS MONTH 
it 
BeAenacted by the Senate and House of Represenfafives of the 
Philippines in Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Title- This Act shall be known and cited as the “Deaf-Blind 
Awareness Month”. 
SECTION 2. The month of June is permanently designated as “Deaf-Blind 
Awareness Month” in the Philippines. 
SECTION 3. The Department of Health shall urge all citizens to recognize 
“Deaf-Blind Awareness Month” and shall hold programs and activities for the 
observance of the event. The Department shall likewise provide encouragement 
and assistance to those organizations that offer educational, advocacy and 
support services for the deaf-blind persons. 
SECTION 4. Implementing Rules and Regulations.- The Department of 
Health shall promulgate the appropriate rules and regulations necessary for the 
effective implementation of this Act within sixty (60) days from its approval. 
SECTION 5. Separability Clause.- If any provision or part thereof is held 
invalid or unconstitutional, the remainder of the law or the provision not otherwise 
affected shall remain valid and subsisting. 
SECTION 6. Repealing Clause.- Any law, presidential decree or issuance, 
executive order, letter of instruction, administrative order, rule or regulation 
contrary to or inconsistent with the provision of this Act is hereby repealed, 
modified or amended accordingly. 
SECTION 7. Effectivity Clause.- This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days 
after its publication in the Official Gazette or in at least two (2) newspapers of 
general circulation. 
Approved.
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
Third Regular Session 
) 
SENATE 
S.B. No. 2542 
Introduced by Senator RAMON BONG REVILLA, JR. 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Under the Family Code, illegitimate children are granted the right to use their 
father’s surname with the intention of removing, or at least diminishing, the stigma and 
shame which accompanies illegitimacy. 
This bill aims to emphasize the primordial importance of the role of mothers when 
it comes to the surname of their illegitimate children. The proposed amendment, in 
recognition of the fact that mothers have the sole parental authority over their 
illegitimate children, mandates that mothers should give express prior consent to the 
use of the father’s surname. There is a danger that a father might use this right as 
leverage over the mother, either to avoid obligations or to impose unreasonable 
demands, and as a result undermine the parental authority of a mother over her 
illegitimate child. 
Furthermore, the amendment seeks to negate the presumption that every mother 
is willing to assent to the use of the father’s surname and that such use is always for the 
best interest of the child. Bearing in mind the welfare of the illegitimate child, there may 
be instances where the mother strongly believes that her son or daughter’s well-being 
would be better protected if the surname of the father will not be used. 


THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
Third Regular Session 
1 
SENATE 
Introduced by Senator RAMON BONG REVILLA, JR. 
AN ACT AMENDING SECTION ONE OF REPUBLIC ACT NUMBER NINE 
ALLOWING ILLEGITIMATE CHILDREN TO USE THE SURNAME OF THEIR 
FATHER, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE ARTICLE 176 OF THE FAMILY CODE 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
THOUSAND TWO HUNDRED AND FIFTY-FIVE, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS AN ACT 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION I. 
Article 176 of Executive Order No. 209, otherwise known as the 
Family Code of the Philippines, is hereby further amended to read as follows: 
"Article 176. Illegitimate children shall use the surname and 
shall be under the parental authority of their mother, and 
shall be entitled to support in conformity with this Code. 
However, illegitimate children may use the surname of their 
father if their filiation has been expressly recognized by the 
father through the record of birth appearing in the civil 
register, or when an admission in a public document or 
private handwritten instrument is made by the father. 
Provided, the father has the right to institute an action before 
the regular courts to prove non-filiation during his lifetime. 
AND PROVIDED FURTHER, THAT IN ANY CASE, THE 
MOTHER SHALL GIVE HER EXPRESS AND PRIOR 
CONSENT TO THE USE OF THE SURNAME OF THE 
FATHER. The legitime of each illegitimate child shall consist 
of one-half of the legitime of a legitimate child." 
Sec. 2. Effecfivify Clause. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days from its 
publication in the Official Gazette or in two (2) newspapers of general circulation, 
whichever comes earlier. 
Approved,
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Second Regular Session 
6 JUH -7 P 4  20 
S E N A T E  
RECEIVED BY : -.$?&L- 
Senate Bill No. - 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. MANNY VILLAR 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The children are the State's most precious and valuable resource, and 
various public and private initiatives seek to decrease the number of 
preventable injuries and fatalities incurred by children. 
Unintentional injury is the number one killer of children age 14 and 
under, and each year nearly 6,040 children are killed and at least 120,000 are 
permanently disabled by preventable injuries. 
Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for children 
between the ages of four and 14, with more than 1,700 children under the age 
of 15 having died in motor vehicle crashes in 2000. 
Annually, thousands of children under the age of 15 drown and more 
are treated in the hospital for water-related injuries. 
The Internet has opened a world af information and educational 
resources, yet may be a dangerous place where pedophiles and con artists 
have access to our children, necessitating that parents monitor their children's 
use of the computer. Reports of child abductions and missing children seem to 
be on the rise. Research indicates that children are abused mostly by people 
they know and trust. 
avenues to protect our children from preventable harm. 
It is only proper and fitting for the State to recognize all resources and 
MANNYVILL R 
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THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Second Regular Session 
S E N A T E  
Senate Bill No. 
2 
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RELXWED BY: 
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INTRODUCED BY SEN. MANNY VILLAR 
AN ACT 
DESIGNATING DECEMBER OF EACH YEAR AS "CHILD PROTECTION 
MONTH" 
;f. 
Be, enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the 
Philippines in Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Title- This Act shall be known and cited as the "Child 
Protection Month". 
SECTION 2. The month of December is permanently designated as Child 
Protection Month" in the Philippines. 
SECTION 3. The Department of Social Welfare and Development shall 
urge all citizens to recognize "Child Protection Month" and shall hold programs 
and activities in observance of the event. 
SECTION 4. Implementing Rules and Regulations.- The DSWD shall 
promulgate the appropriate rules and regulations necessary for the effective 
implementation of this Act within sixty (60) days from its approval. 
SECTION 5. Repealing Clause.- Any law, presidential decree or issuance, 
executive order, letter of instruction, administrative order, rule or regulation 
contrary to or inconsistent with the provision of this Act is hereby repealed, 
modified or amended accordingly. 
SECTION 6. Effectivity Clause.- This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days 
after its publication in the Official Gazette or in at least two (2) newspapers of 
general circulation. 
Approved.
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINE'S } 
Second Regular Session 
INTRODUCED BY HON. MANNY VILLAR 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Education is the key that allows people to move up in the world, seek better jobs, 
and ultimately succeed fully in life. Education is very important, and no one should be 
deprived of it. 
The Constitution mandates the State to protect and promote the right of all 
citizens to quality education at all levels and to take appropriate steps to make such 
education accessible to all. 
This bill seeks to convert the Himanag High School into the Himanag National 
High School with the end view of promoting quality education as envisioned by the 
Constitution as the Municipality of Lagonoy does not have sufficient funds to support the 
needs of the school and its students. Due to this situation, the school and its students 
are currently suffering form lack of facilities, materials and qualified faculty. There is an 
urgent need, therefore, to pass the burden to the national government if only to pursue 
the constitutional mandate of promoting the right of citizens to quality education. 
In view of the foregoing reasons, the approval of this bill is earnestly sought. 
n 
MANNYVI fi 
LAR 


THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
' 
Second Regular Session 
~. 
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0 JHlJ -7 
-I) 
SENATE 
INTRODUCED BY HON. MANNY VILLAR 
AN ACT CONVERTING THE HIMANAG HIGH SCHOOL IN BARANGAY HIMANAG, 
MUNICIPALITY OF LAGONOY, PROVINCE OF CAMARINES SUR, INTO A 
NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL TO BE KNOWN AS THE HIMANAG NATIONAL HIGH 
SCHOOL 
Be if enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Conversion info a National High School. - The Himanag High 
School in Barangay Himanag, Municipality of Lagonoy, Province of Camarines Sur, is 
hereby converted into a national high school to be known as the Himanag National High 
School. 
SEC. 2. Transfer of Assets and Liabilities. - All personnel, assets, liabilities and 
records of the Himanag High School are hereby transferred to and absorbed by the 
Himanag National High School. 
SEC. 3. Appropriations. - The Secretary of Education shall immediately include 
in the Department's program the operationalization of the Himanag National High 
School, the initial funding of which shall be charged against the current year's 
appropriations of the Balaton National High School - Himanag Annex. Thereafter, the 
amount necessary for the continued operation of the school shall be included in the 
annual General Appropriations Act. 
SEC. 4. lmplementafion. -The Secretary of Education shall issue such rules and 
regulations as may be necessary to carry out the purpose of this Act. 
SEC. 5. Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its 
publication in the Official Gazette. 
Approved,
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC) 
) 
1 
Second Regular Session 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
SENATE 
S.B. No. a
2
 
Introduced by Senator Francis N. Pangilinan 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Philippines and China are neighboring countries that share a 
friendship dating back to ancient times. This friendly association has brought 
about a strong and increasing presence of the Filipino-Chinese community in 
the country. 
Their presence in the Philippines has contributed to the increase in 
economic and trade relations between these two countries. Further, the 
various businesses of the Filipino-Chinese community in the Philippines account 
for employment generation to the great advantage of our labor force. Their 
economic contribution, thus, cannot be quantified in terms of monetary 
benefits alone. 
Aside from economic favor, cultural enrichment has likewise been 
derived from long association and assimilation with the Chinese people. 
Cultural and social assimilation has resulted in the recognition of numerous 
Chinese cultural customs, foremost of which is in the Chinese New Year, which 
i s  celebrated by many Filipino and Filipino-Chinese with the same festivity as 
the Chinese Nationals. 
By setting aside the day when Chinese New Year falls to 
commemorate the occasion which both Chinese and most of Filipinos 
celebrate, we would be enhancing the mutually beneficial relations between 
us and furthering the amity forged between these two countries. 
In view of the foregoing, immediate passage of this bill is earnestly 
sought. 


THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC) 
OF THE PHlllPPlNES 
1 
6 Xi 16 
4 'I? 
Second Regular Session 
) 
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BY. L.-
\ 
SENATE 
Introduced by Senafor Francis N. Pangilinan 
AN ACT DECLARING CHINESE NEW YEAR OF EACH YEAR 
AS A SPECIAL WORKING HOLIDAY AS A SIGN OF GOODWILL AND AMITY 
BETWEEN THE PHILIPPINES AND CHINA 
Be it enacfed by the Senate and House of Represenfafives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
Section 1. In recognition of the immeasurable contribution of the 
Filipino Chinese community in our country and in order to further strengthen 
the Filipino-Chinese amity, the Chinese New Year of each year is hereby 
declared as a special working Holiday throughout the entire Philippines. 
Section 2. This Act shall take effect fifteen (1 5) calendar days after its 
publication in at least two (2) national newspaper of general circulation. 
Approved,
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THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC} 
t)F 
1 
THE PHILIPPINES 
} 
SEP 26 P 2 : l i  
SECOND REGULAR SESSION 
1 
I 
~~~~~V~ BY : 
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SENATE OF THE PHILIPPINES 
I 
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S. NO. 2184 
Introduced by Senator Juan M. Flavier 
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EXPLANATORY NOTE 
1 
Ship agents play a vital role in making the business of local and 
I international navigation more convenient. They contribute to competitiveness 
pnd efficiency by facilitating a more expedient entry and departure of ships in 
their ports of origin and destination. 
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Under the Code of commerce, the liability of ship agents is so broad to the 
pxtent that they are bound solidarily with the shipowners to indemnify the 
shippers for loss or damages to goods due to the fault of the captain or under 
kircumstances beyond their control. 
Aside from the fact that ship agents' 
concern is limited to provision and representation of the vessel in the port in 
)which it may be found, they are not parties to the contract between the shippers 
 and carriers. 
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It is the wisdom of this bill to put an end to this burden carried by the ship 
:agents who are'not parties to the cortract of carriage but acting merely as 
'representatives of the shipowners. 
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Thus, immediate passage of,this bill is earnestly sought. 
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SEP 26 P 2 3 3  
T tl IRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC} 
I THE PHILIPPINES 
i 
> 
~ E ~ E i V E Q  
By : 
COND REGULAR SESSION 
SENATE OF THE PHILIPPINES 
S. NO.- 2184 
Introduced by Senator Juan M. Flavier 
4 ACT LIMITING THE LIABILITY OF SHIP AGENTS ENGAGED I N  
COASTWISE 
AND 
FOREIGN TRADE, 
AMENDING 
FOR THIS 
PURPOSE 
ARTICLES 586, 587, 618, 826 AND 
RELATED 
PROVISIONS OF THE CODE OF COMMERCE AS WELL AS OTHER 
APPLICABLE LAWS 
1 it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Pbihppines in 
ingress assembled: 
iCTION 
1. 
Liability of the Ship Agent. 
The liability of the ship agent 
under the Code of Commerce shall not be extended to the obligations 
assumed by the shipowner and/or carrier to the shippers for the loss and/or 
damages of goods. 
iCTION 
2. 
Repealing Clause. 
The provisions of Articles 586. 587, 618, 
826 and related provisions of the Code of Commerce shall not be extended 
to the obligations assumed by the shipowner and/or carrier to the shippers 
for the loss and-or damages of goods. 
iCTION 
3. 
Effectivity. 
This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days 
following the completion of its publication in the Official Gazette or in two 
(2) national newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC ) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
1 
F 
?E? 13 f,?:ln 
Third Regular Session 
1 
SENATE 
S.No. 
'2561! 
Introduced by Senator Richard J. Gordon 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Medical expenses leading to death often reach exorbitant amounts. 
In the 
computation of the net estate for the payment of the estate tax, deductible medical 
expenses are only allowed up to five hundred thousand pesos (P500,OOO). This needs to 
be rationalized to reflect the realistic costs of present medical services. Thus, this bill 
proposes to increase the maximum allowable deductible medical expenses in the 
computation of the net estate for the payment of estate tax from five hundred thousand 
pesos (P500,OOO) to one million five hundred thousand pesos (PI ,500,000). 
RICHARD J. GORDON 
Senator 
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THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC ) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
1 
Third Regular Session 
1 
SENATE 
S. No. 
Introduced by Senator Richard J. Gordon 
AN ACT AMENDING SECTION 86 (A) (6) OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8424, AS AMENDED, 
OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE NATIONAL INTERNAL REVENUE CODE OF 1997 
Be if enacted by the Senate and the House of Represenfafives of fhe Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Section 86 (A) (6) of Republic Act No. 8424, as amended, otherwise 
known as the National Internal Revenue Code of 1997, is hereby amended to read as 
follows: 
"(6) Medical Expenses. - Medical expenses incurred by the decedent 
within one (1) year prior to his death which shall be duly substantiated with 
receipts: Provided, That in no case shall the deductible medical expenses 
exceed [Five hundred thousand pesos (P500,000)] ONE MILLION FIVE 
HUNDRED THOUSAND PESOS (PI ,500,000)." 
Sec. 2. Repealing Clause. - All laws, decrees, orders, rules and regulations or other 
issuances or parts thereof inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are hereby repealed or 
modified accordingly. 
Sec. 3. €ffectivity. - This Act shall take effect after fifteen (15) days following the 
completion of its publication either in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general 
circulation in the Philippines. 
Approved,
TIURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILLIPPENES 
) 
Third Regular Session 
1 
SENATE 
r p 1 "  
S.B. No. 
U A  
Introduced by Senator Ramon Bong Revilla, Jr. 
EXPLlANATORY NOTE 
This bill seeks to grant civil service eligibility to contractual and eo-terminus 
government employees who have rendered a total of five (5) years of efficient service. 
At present, there are many hardworking government employees who have 
continuously rendered loyal service to the government but are not abIe to secure a 
permanent appointment in their respective offices for the mere fact that they lack the 
merit the appropriate civil service eligibility. It is unfortunate that these individuals, m7ho 
have otherwise proven adept in their fine of work be deemed ineligible for the very 
position and job that they have been doing for a long period. An examination that is 
accomplished in a couple of hours cannot accurately measure an individual's capacity or 
subsequent incapacity to work for our government. It is the years in service that more 
truly hone a person's skills and capabilities. 
An individual who has continuaily worked in a government office for a period of 
at least five years should be considered proficient enough in his work and be given the 
security of tenure that he or she has earned. 
It is for this reason the urgent passage of this bill is sought. 


THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF TEfE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHHAPPINES 
) 
Third Regular Session 
) 
SENATE 
S.B. No. 251 
Introduced by Senator Ramon Bong Revilla, Jr. 
AN ACT 
TERMINUS GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES WHO HAVE RENDERED A 
TOTAL OF FIVE YEARS OF EFFICIENT SERVICE, AND FOR OTHER 
PURPOSES. 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippivies in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. All government employees as of the approval of this Act whu are holding 
career civil service positions appointed under contractual or co-terminus status who have 
rendered at least a total of five (5) years of efficient service may be granted the civil 
service eligibility that will qualify them for permanent appointment to their present 
positions or other positions in the government in the case of co-terminus employees. 
GRANTING CIVIL SERVICE ELIGIBILITY TO CONTRACTUAL AND CO- 
The Civil Service Commission shall formulate performance evaluation standards 
in order to determine those contractual or co-terminus employees who are qualified to 
avail themselves of the privileges granted under this Act. 
The civil service eligibility herein granted.may apply to such their positions as the 
Civil Service Commission may deem appropriate. 
SECTION 2. The Civil Service Commission shall promulgate the rules and regulations 
to implement this Act consistent with the merit and fitness principle within ninety (90) 
days after effectivity. 
SECTION 3. All laws, decrees, and executive orders inconsistent with this Act are 
hereby repealed or modified accordingly. 
SECTION 4. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days from the date of its publication 
in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,