bettergovph/raw-philippine-data huggingface dataset:
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s. No. 
476
■ H '• 'n
y^. ,y <(5n.fr of 
>»*rTPbry
*16 JUL 19 All 26
i A ' ;
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” Trillanes IV
AN ACT
TO ESTABLISH A SCIENCE HIGH SCHOOL IN ALL PROVINCES AND HIGHLY- 
URBANIZED CITIES, PROVIDING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER 
PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
In spite of the Philippines' high adult literacy rate and regard for education, the quality of the 
country's education system is in decline. Many Filipino children from poor families are still 
forced to drop out from schools. Instead of completing high school and pursuing higher 
education, these children are often employed in manual and very basic tasks to help support 
their family.
Ultimately, the situation causes these children to grow up with just elementary education. As 
a result, the country is suffering from an inability to produce a competent and skilled 
workforce - to be employed both at home and abroad - required for badly needed 
socioeconomic development.
The bill seeks to address this situation with the creation of Science High Schools in each 
province and highly urbanized city. It is hoped that these additional schools will be able to 
continue the good work of this country's existing national Science High Schools in producing 
competitive graduates especially in the field of research and Mathematics. These new schools 
will be subsidized by both the national government through the Department of Education and 
the concerned Local Government Units, giving children from poorer backgrounds the chance 
to a better education and a better life.
In view of the foregoing, approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
ANTONIO “>
JNY’\F . TRILLANES IV
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session
'*'tX vv  l § t U f t  „ f
‘^6 JUL 26 fl9 :06
S.B.SEmE
I < i l \  I ' n  r^Y:
Introduced by Senator Poe ...
AN ACT
BROADENING 
THE 
OPPORTUNITIES 
OF 
FILIPINO 
YOUTH 
BY 
ALLOWING GRADUATES OF K-12 ENHANCED EDUCATION IN THE 
PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE THE 
PNP LAW, R.A. 6975 AS AMENDED BY R.A. 8551
In the Philippine context, education remains a top priority. Despite the various 
development plans and projects formulated by the government and different sectors, 
the quality of Philippine education still leaves much room for improvement.
As part of the efforts of the present administration to respond to the perceived 
needs of the education sector, the Department of Education (DepEd) had pushed for 
the implementation of the “Enhanced K to 12 Basic Education Program.”1
The k-12 enhanced education program was designed, among others, to solve 
the ballooning unemployment in the country by arming students with true mastery of 
basic competencies and necessary skills to enter into the work force.
Less than half of all high school graduates finish college and even less earn a 
baccalaureate degree due to financial constraints. Graduates of the k-12 program, 
however, were assured that they stand a chance even without a college degree.
1 http://dirp3.pids.gov.pli/ris/eid/pidseidl202.pdf
JSfuatf
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s.No. 558
'16 JUL19 P4:44
A
RFci:ivr;n bv:
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
TO REQUIRE CERTAIN VEHICLES/CARRIAGES TRAVERSING MAIN AND 
SECONDARY ROADS TO 
USE REFLECTORS, PROVIDING PENALTIES 
THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The general welfare of the public, specifically the commuters, should be at all times protected 
from the dangers brought about by other moving vehicle or carriages that are not easily seen 
in the street.
In 2014, there were a total of 90,258 road accidents in Metro Manila alone -  that is an 
average of 248 accidents per day. Road accidents, especially those involving public utility 
vehicles, figure highly in the national accident statistics.
Informal transport modes such as karitons, fishball carts, power hand tractor (kuliglig) with 
trailer, and horse carriages also contribute to these road accidents for the reason that they do 
not have headlights or backlights, rendering them inconspicuous in roads. The kuliglig in 
particular, has been one of the major culprits in rural accidents - causing fatalities to 
pedestrians and public transport users. From May to November 2007, reports have shown that 
kuliglig-related accidents in Pangasinan alone resulted to the death of seven people and more 
than sixty injured persons.
It may be true that accidents are part of our lives. However, there will always be a way to 
prevent these accidents from occurring. It is high time that we put a greater emphasis on 
improving road safety, particularly in the implementation of an effective road safety program.
This bill seeks to put an end to the numerous deaths and accidents, most especially during 
nighttime, caused by the informal transport modes traversing the roads. This bill distinctively 
requires the said vehicles traversing main and secondary roads to use reflectors. To further 
achieve the objectives of this measure, concerned government agencies shall be mandated to 
provide programs to educate the general public concerning the same matter.
In view of the foregoing, the immediate approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
ANTONIQ
INNW F. TRHJLANES IV
Senatd- 
'
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHIILIPPINES )
First Regular Session 
)
llu i 
';V  
'
' f  i fit »  of !l i’
*16 
J1JL21 
P3-.18
SENATE
s.No. 845
in
'V:
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto
AN ACT
PROVIDING FUNDING SUPPORT FOR UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE COVERAGE 
AND IMPROVING PHILHEALTH BENEFIT PACKAGES BY ALLOCATING 
SEVENTY PERCENT (70%) OF THE PHILIPPINE CHARITY SWEEPSTAKES 
OFFICE CHARITY FUND FOR SUCH PURPOSE, THEREBY AMENDING REPUBLIC 
ACT NO. 1169, AS AMENDED BY BATAS PAMBANSA BLG. 42
Explanatory Note
The p eso  has previously been mired in controversies over the alleged misuse of its 
Charity Fund - a billion pesos fund utilized to undertake medical and other social welfare 
program and projects of the PCSO and implemented through the services of Non-Government 
Organizations (NGOs), the Church and other program partners as conduits of funds for charity 
projects to the people.
Given the discretionary nature of the Charity Fund and the laek of clear accountability 
provided in the PCSO charter, the disbursement of the Charity Fund has not been in accordance 
with specific standards and is only subject to the approval of the PCSO board.
Furthermore, the public is left in the dark as to the magnitude and allocation of the PCSO 
Charity Fund. There is no transparency in the use of the fund because it does not go through the 
usual budget scrutiny as it is considered an off-budget item and, therefore, not discussed in the 
congressional public hearings on the General Appropriations Bill.
For as long as we leave the disbursement of the Charity Fund in the hands of the PCSO 
board, allegations of abuse in its utilization will continue to be a thorny problem for the 
institution.
This bill intends to amend the charter of the PCSO. Seventy percent (70%) of the Charity 
Fund whieh constitutes 30% of the net receipts of the PCSO shall be used for the National Health 
Insuranee Program administered by the PhilHealth for universal coverage as well as improving 
its benefit packages.
The equivalent amount shall be included in the General Appropriations Aet (GAA) as a 
Special Purpose Fund for the counterpart shares of the national and local government in the 
National Health Insurance Program under the PhilHealth. Thus, “What you see is what you get” 
as reflected in the GAA and no more "pork barrel” for the PCSO board.
Henee, instead of the PCSO funneling the funds to its various government hospital 
beneficiaries, PCSO’s Charity Fund would now be directly infused to PhilHealth that will allow 
indigents to seek treatment in government and private hospitals as well.
Given sueh set-up, indigents no longer need to suffer the long queues of patients in the 
PCSO for financial assistance before they can line up in the hospitals for the medical services.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
Senate B ill No.
303
mt
11
BILLS & INDEX
Introd uced by S enator Juan M iguel F. Zubiri
AN ACT
CLASSIFYING THE SALE OF ELECTRICITY BY ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES, 
VALUE-ADDED TAX EXEMPT TRANSACTIONS, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE 
109 (1 ) OF THE NATIONAL INTERNAL REVENUE CODE, AS AMENDED BY 
REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9337, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Philippines has been ranked as one of the countries with the highest 
electricity rates in South East Asia in recent years. In addition, the country is also 
plagued with shortages in power supply. The high cost of electricity and unreliable 
power supply has become major stumbling blocks in improving the competitiveness of 
the Philippines in attracting foreign investments and businesses that require competitive 
power rates. Apart from constraints in economic development and industrialization, the 
high cost of power gives undue burden to the average earning Filipino who can barely 
make ends meet given the increasing prices of food, fuel, education, medical costs and 
other basic necessities.
It has been established in various studies that while electric rates in countries 
such as Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand are heavily subsidized by their governments, 
rates in the Philippines are heavily taxed. Across the entire power supply chain in the 
Philippines, from royalty taxes on indigenous fuel for power generation (e.g., 
Malampaya natural gas, geothermal steam), to the value-added tax, the local franchise 
tax, the Universal Charges, and other government fees and charges, power prices 
incorporate numerous state impositions that push up the final cost of electric service to 
end-users.
Taking all these in consideration, this measure proposes to exempt from value- 
added tax (VAT) the sale of electricity by electric cooperatives by amending National 
Internal Revenue Code of 1997, as amended by Republic Act No. 9377.
The measure will provide much needed respite for Filipino households in the 
rural areas where electric cooperatives are situated from high electricity rates. The bill 
will likewise afford competitive power rates to attract more investments and boost the 
competitiveness of small and medium industries.
The immediate approval of this bill is therefore earnestly sought.
JUAN
IGUEL F. ZUBIRI
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE )
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
)
First Regular Session
)
•16
S E N A TE
S. B. No. 782
•16 
ral:29
n \ ';
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT
RATIONALIZNG LOCAL TAXATION AMENDING FOR THAT PURPOSE 
SECTION 150, CHAPTER 1, TITLE ONE, BOOK II OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7160, AS 
AMENDED, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT CODE
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This bill seeks to achieve fairness in local taxation, especially in treating the situs 
of the tax.
Albeit, the current law on local taxation as provided for in the Local Government 
Code already recognizes and imposes the situs rule on taxation, it is submitted that 
further modification be had. And this is in the area of tax sharing between and among 
local government units where the principal place of business, branch or sales outlet, 
factory, project office, plant or plantation is located.
A hundred percent share of all sales or transactions to Local Government Units 
(LGUs) is proposed so long as such sales or transactions occur in the LGU concerned. 
This practically expunges the present thirty percent share of the LGU where the 
principal place of business is located.
This proposal is anchored on a more equalized distribution of revenues, 
especially since most principal places of business are located in highly urbanized cities 
in the country like those in Metro Manila.
Moreover, this bill is in consonance with the constitutional mandate of making 
LGUs autonomous and self-sustaining government bodies.
Thus, the early passage of this measure is sought.
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s. No. 494
S r iin i. -
(§(tifC Ilf lljf jM rrrtnry
’ i 6  
JUL h f  
A11 '44
■ ■ V f
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
PROVIDING THAT ALL CONTRACTUAL AND CASUAL EMPLOYEES IN THE 
GOVERNMENT SERVICE BE PAID CORRESPONDING WAGES DURING 
SPECIAL PUBLIC HOLIDAYS, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This bill seeks to provide that all contractual and casual government employees be paid their 
corresponding wages during special public holidays and to appropriate funds therefore.
Section 9, Article II of the Philippine Constitution provides that the “State shall promote a 
just and dynamic social order that will ensure the prosperity and independence of the nation 
and free the people from poverty through policies that provide adequate social services, 
promote full employment, a rising standard of living, and an improved quality of life for all”.
All contractual and casual employees work under the principle o f "no work, no pay" basis. 
Hence, during non-working special public holidays when tenured employees are paid a full 
day's wage, said "marginalized" employees are deprived of the same privilege.
This situation may very well be seen as unfair, considering that they too, are burdened by the 
same problems confronting the regular employees such as the rising cost of living, basic 
health care and decent education for their children. This practice runs counter to the 
government's declared policy as mentioned above and in connection with the rising standard 
of living and therefore, aggravates the already impoverished plight of most Filipino families.
A dynamic workforce is the backbone of a prosperous nation, and without the proper 
incentives to safeguard an employee's right to an improved quality of life, the avowed goal of 
the government toward sustainable development will be hard to achieve.
In view of the foregoing, the immediate passage o f this bill is earnestly sought.
ANTONIl^ ^ ^ N p J ^ ” F.
ANESIV
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
of llj? i*rrTptnry
'16 JUL 19 A10:18
S E N A T E
426
S.B. NO. 
^
■ 'i'.'. ;» i>Y;
In tro d u ced  by SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA
AN ACT ALLOWING EXPENSES INCURRED IN PAYMENTS FOR TERTIARY 
EDUCATION TUITION AND 
RELATED 
EDUCATIONAL EXPENSES AS 
DEDUCTIONS FROM GROSS INCOME OF INDIVIDUALS, AMENDING FOR 
THE PURPOSE SECTION 34 OF THE NATIONAL INTERNAL REVENUE 
CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES, AS AMENDED.
Explanatory Note
Education has always been viewed as one of the pillars of the government and 
an avenue for social and economic mobility. It aim s to prepare the youth to 
become active and productive m em bers of the society. Tertiary education seeks 
to m eet and m atch the dem and of the industries with a globally competitive 
workforce. It aim s to increase the quality of hum an capital in relation to 
national and economic progress.
The Constitution guarantees the right to education of every Filipino. Article 4, 
Section 1 provides th at “The State shall protect and prom ote the right of all 
citizens to quality education at all levels and shall take appropriate steps to 
m ake education accessible to all.”
According to the Functional Literacy, Education and Mass Media Survey 
(FLEMMS), one in every ten or about four (4) million Filipino children and 
youth was out-of-school in 2013. Out-of-school youth, as defined by FLEMMS, 
are 15 to 24 aged persons who are not attending school, have not finished any 
college or post-secondary course, and are not working. The survey also showed 
th at insufficient family income is one of the reasons why these youth were not 
sent to tertiary education institutions.
This m easure seeks to address this problem by allowing tuition fees and other 
related expenses for tertiary education be tax deductible from the gross income 
of the taxpayers.
In view of the foregoing, early passage of this bill is requested.
LOftEN LEGARDA
Senator
■I
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
S E N A T E
s. No. 
2aa
RECEIvEI
z  0date4UL M
m 
--j—
TIME: 
y  y
 Ci
BILLS I. INDEX
Introduced by S enator G regorio B. Honasan I I
AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR A TOTAL BAN ON ANTI-PERSONNEL LANDMINES, FOR 
OTHER PROHIBITIONS OR RESTRICTIONS ON THE USE OF LANDMINES, 
BOOBY-TRAPS AND OTHER DEVICES, CREATING FOR THIS PURPOSE A 
PHILIPPINE 
COORDINATING 
COMMITTEE 
ON 
LANDMINES, 
AND 
FOR 
RELATED PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The landmine problem is not much felt in the Philippines because of its limited 
and largeiy discriminate use (so far) in the internal armed conflicts with various rebel 
groups. 
However, this bill is being proposed to be the main policy expression of the 
Philippines' compiiance with its international obligations under the two (2) treaties it has 
ratified, namely:
the 1997 Convention on the Prohibition o f the Use, Stockpiiing, 
Production and Transfer o f Anti-Personnei Mines and on Their 
Destruction (hereinafter referred to as the Ottawa Treaty)
the 1996 Amended Protocol on Prohibitions o r Restrictions on the 
Use o f Mines, Booby-Traps and Other Devices (hereinafter referred to 
as the "Amended Protocol 11") annexed to the 1980 Convention on 
Prohibitions o r Restrictions on the Use o f Certain Conventional 
Weapons which May be Deemed to be Excessively Injurious o r to 
Have Indiscrim inate Effects.
Under both treaties. State Parties like the Philippines are obliged to take all 
appropriate legislative and other measures to implement the treaties and suppress 
violations of the prohibitions and restrictions on the use of landmines, booby traps and 
other devices.
But the Philippines must not only implement both treaties. It must also reconcile 
its implementation. This is because the Ottawa Treaty provides for a total ban on anti­
personnel mines, while Amended Protocol II merely restricts or regulates the use of all 
mines, whether anti-personnel or anti-vehicle. The Philippines, through this measure, 
resolves whatever conflict in the implementation and application of both treaties in 
favor of a total ban on anti-personnel mines (see Section 2, Paragraph 6 and Section 
23, Paragraph 2).
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
)
))
(Jffift of tlje<;»»rTRtar1{
SENATE
s. No. 613
*16 
JUL19 
P 6 :0 4
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
GRANTING THE SUPREME COURT THE POWER TO REASSIGN TRIAL COURT
^ F r5 |EnSJ«0 i ? T 0E^nBRANCHES OF THE SAME LEVEL’ t h e r e b y  AMENDING
AND 
^^E BATAS PAMBANSA BLG. 129, OTHERWISE 
KNOWN AS "THE JUDICIARY REORGANIZATION ACT OF 1980"
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Article VIII Section 6 of the 1987 Constitution expressly provides that ”[T]he Supreme Court 
shall have administrative supervision over all courts and the personnel thereof However
eurrent practice under the present law -  Batas Pambansa 129 -  runs counter to the aforesaid 
constitutional mandate.
B?a129J  °IheT1Se kn0Wn aS "The Judiciary Reorganization Act of 1980". as amended 
madvertently denies the Supreme Court the power to permanently reassign judges of 
Regional, Metropolitan, Municipal and Municipal Circuit Trial Courts to other stations on the 
same court level. For a judge to be transferred to a court of the same level in a neighboring 
town or city a new nomination from the Judicial and Bar Council and a new appointoent by 
the President shall have to be secured for such transfer to ensue, as if the judge is being 
appointed for the first time. 
° 
°
This process, however is unique to the judicial branch of government. In the Executive the 
Administrative Code of the Philippines and Presidential Decree No. I allow the reassignment
tm ntfrriT n8 ? d Ciareer Executive Service personnel, respectively, provided that such 
transrer shall not involve a reduction in rank, salary, or status.
Such tedious personnel management process in the Judiciaiy results to clogged dockets, as 
e ayed lateral transfer of judges to new assignments contributes to prolonged vacancies in 
tnal courts. As a stop-gap solution, said court vacancies are temporarily assigned with pairing 
and assisting judges who are doubly burdened as they also have to attend to other pressing 
cases m their own salas. Such is the case in Cebu alone, where four (4) branches of the 
Municipal Tnal Courts m Cities branches remain vacant following the dismissal of presiding 
IBP8Ceh01r  SerV!Ce' An offshoot ofsaid vacancies are 4,389 unresolved cases, prompting the
Judi^id^Rfl^d^HCpaP^er• 1
a reSolution asking the President, the Supreme Court and the 
Judicial Bar and Council (JBC) to consider as urgent the filling up of the vacancies
More importantly, this process further exposes our courts to political interference and 
pressure. As aptly observed by Justice Antonio Carpio of the Supreme Court.- "[Elvery time a 
J^(hpm dem ^” ateral transfer like this’ he accumulates political debts, which weaken his
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E
S.B.No. 
292
ifi TIME;
BILLS &
Introduced by Senator Aquilino "Koko" Pimentel HI
AN ACT
ENSURING THE RIGHT OF THE PEOPLE TO PEACEABLY 
ASSEMBLE AND PETITION THE GOVERNMENT 
FOR REDRESS OF GRIEVANCES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Article III, Section 4 of the Constitution provides that u[N]o law 
shall be passed abridging the freedom of speech, of expression, or of the 
press, or of the right of the people to peaceably assemble and petition 
the government for redress of grievances F
As a necessary consequence of freedom of speech and expression, 
freedom of assembly connotes the right of the people to convene 
peaceably for consultation and discussion on matters of public concern. 
It is accorded the utmost deference and respect, and is not to be limited, 
much less denied, except on a showing of a clear and present danger of a 
substantive evil that the state has a right to prevent.1 However, this right 
is not absolute and is subject to reasonable limitations of ^'time, place, 
and manned" as may be necessary to ensure public safety, the prevention 
of disorder or crime, and other legitimate public interests.
Batas Pambansa Big. 880 (B.P. 880) or the Public Assembly Act of 
1985, enacted during the Marcos Administration, has been criticized for 
being used by authorities to conveniently Justify the dispersal of 
otherwise peaceful assemblies and rallies under the ‘Wo Permit, No 
Rally"" rule -  effectively restraining the people’s constitutional right to 
peaceful assembly.
Reyes vs. Bagatsing (G.R. No. L-65366, November 9, 1983).
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
(§llire of Hr: 
-11
'16 AUG-3 P2 :22
SENATE 
S.B. No. 
9  
8
H  F . (
V;
Introduced by Senator SONNY ANGARA
AN ACT
ESTABLISHING RESOURCE CENTERS FOR INDIGENOUS CULTURAL 
COMMUNITIES/INDIGENOUS PEOPLES TO ENHANCE AND ENSURE DELIVERY OF 
ESSENTIAL SERVICES, APPRORIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER
PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
There are 14-17 million estimated ICCs and IPs mainly concentrated in Northern Luzon 
(33%) and in Mindanao (61%). The Constitution mandates that the State shall recognize, 
protect, promote and fulfill the rights of the indigenous peoples.
In 1997, Republic Act No. 8371 or the ‘Indigenous Peoples Rights Act’ (IPRA) was 
enacted into law fulfilling the State’s constitutional duty to recognize the millions of Indigenous 
Cultural Communities (ICCs) and Indigenous Peoples (IPs) in the country. However, despite the 
IPRA and the various international aids given to them, ICCs and IPs remain the most 
disadvantaged and the poorest in our country.
Geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs) still lack basic services. The 
2010 Report on the State of the World by the United Nations reveal that ICCs and IPs “make up 
one-third of the world’s poorest peoples, suffer disproportionately in areas like health, education, 
and human rights, and regularly face systemic discrimination and exclusion." Government has 
to remedy the miserable conditions of our ICCs and IPs.
It is imperative to establish Resource Centers in all ICCs/IPs which are ethnographically 
located as determined by the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP). These 
centers shall enhance the delivery of basic, social, technical and legal services to the ICCs and 
IPs.
Therefore, the immediate passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
SONNY ANGARA
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
SENAT 
S.B. No.
^15
f t INDEX
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT
AMENDING REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8972, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE SOLO PARENTS' 
WELFARE ACT OF 2000, BY PROVIDING FOR ADDITIONAL BENEFITS AND PENAL 
PROVISION FOR VIOLATIONS OF THE ACT
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Raising children and nurturing a healthy family is a major challenge to 
parents and takes a great deal of time, effort, patience, and learning. For solo 
parents, the challenge is even more daunting.
To make the situation worse, the financial burden as breadwinner adds to the 
stress and pressure of solo parents. As such, this measure seeks to amend Republic 
Act No. 8972 or the Solo Parents' Welfare Act of 2000 to add benefits for solo 
parents, increase penalties for non-compliance, and enhance the effectiveness of 
the law's implementation.
Through these amendments, solo parents will be awarded a 10% discount on 
clothing for their child and a 15% discount on baby's milk and food up to two years 
from childbirth.
A 15% discount from medicine and medical supply purchases until 5 years 
from childbirth as well as a 10% discount from tuition fees will also be awarded.
Lastly, a personal tax exemption of Php50,000 can be claimed by single 
parents, allowing them to take home a larger portion of their income to invest in 
their family's future.
Let us give them the support they need to provide a bright future for families 
of solo parents.
In view of the foregoing, the approval of thjs bill is earnestly sought.
Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E  
S. B. No. 
^ 5
6
BILLS
Introduced by SENATOR FRANKLIN M. DRILON
AN ACT ESTABLISHING THE PHILIPPINE IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Ingrained in our Constitution is the pursuit of the State to free the people from 
poverty through policies that provide adequate social services, promote full 
employment, a rising standard of living and an improved quality of life for all. Over 
the years, the government has pursued such constitutional fiat through the delivery 
of benefits and services rooted on the principle of social justice. Unfortunately, 
bureaucratic red tape has stood as the perennial bottleneck to the full achievement of 
the enshrined policy.
Drawing off the immense advances in information technology, this measure 
seeks to establish a unified system to accurately and swiftly identify individuals 
seeking basic services from the government. Such innovation endeavors to grant 
wider access to and ensure efficient delivery of public services by cutting red tape and 
preventing fraudulent transactions in government.
As an immediate benefit of this measure’s passage, unwarranted delays in 
government transactions will be averted as the Filipino ID card shall be the only 
proof of identity government agencies and institutions will require.
In view of the foregoing, the immediate passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
KLIN M. DRILON
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE } 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
}
First Regular Session 
}
S E N A T E  
S.B. No. 
219
RECEIVED
bills
Introduced by SENATOR VICENTE C. SOTTO III
AN ACT
GRANTING EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE AND BENEFITS TO THE 
DEPENDENTS OF ALL MEMBERS OF THE ARMED FORCES OF THE 
PHILIPPINES (AFP), PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE (PNP), BUREAU OF 
FIRE PROTECTION (BFP), BUREAU OF JAIL MANAGEMENT AND 
PENOLOGY (BJMP), NATIONAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION (NBI), 
PHILIPPINE DRUG ENFORCEMENT AGENCY (PDEA), PHILIPPINE COAST 
GUARD (PCG) AND BUREAU OF CORRECTIONS (BUCOR) WHO ARE 
KILLED OR PERMANENTLY INCAPACITATED WHILE IN THE 
PERFORMANCE OF THEm DUTY OR BY REASON OF THEIR OFFICE OR
POSITION
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Government service ordinarily does not involve risk to one's life and 
limb. There is, however a certain type of government service where putting 
one’s life on the line is a matter of course. This is the situation of soldiers, 
policemen, fire fighters and generally those who serve and protect the 
general public. Specifically these are the members of the Armed Forces of 
the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Police (PNP), Bureau of Fire (BFP), 
Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), National Bureau of 
Investigation (NBI), Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), and 
Philippine Coast Guard PCG). They should be given extra care and
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E
S. B. No.
88
DATEjUil
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR PROTECTION, SECURITY AND BENEFITS OF
WHISTLEBLOWERS
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Section 27, Article II of the 1987 Constitution provides that as a State Policy, "The 
State shall maintain honesty and integrity in public service and take positive and 
effective measure against graft and corruption."
Furthermore, Section 1, Article XI of the 1987 Constitution provides that, "Public 
office is a public trust. Public officers and employees must at all times be accountable to 
the people, serve them with utmost responsibility, integrity, loyalty, and efficiency, act 
with patriotism and justice, and lead modest lives."
It is the intent of this bill to encourage citizens to stand up and report alleged 
violations of law, improper use of governmental office, gross waste of funds, or any 
other abuse or gross neglect of duty on the part of an agency, public officer or 
employee, and private entity. Furthermore by protecting citizens who disclose 
wrongdoing from retaliatory acts, we hereby strengthen accountability and reduce 
corruption in the public and private sectors.
Hence, in the best interest of the Republic, the immediate approval of this bill is 
urgently sought.
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
ft 
.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
•16 
JUL 20 
P 3 « 5
SENAT 
S.B. No.
fess
H l-.ri'.i.r 
'TY
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "B am " A. A quino IV
AN ACT PROVIDING FOR ENHANCED SOCIAL PROTECTION FOR THE WORKING POOR AND
PROVIDING FUNDS THEREOF
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Philippine Social Security Act of 1954 gave rise to the Social Security System (SSS) in the 
country intended to provide protection against likelihoods and eventualities such as disability and 
injury, sickness, maternity, old age, and death.
One's contributions to SSS translate to investments into one's future and the future of their 
family. Contributions give citizens access to benefits such as disability aid, retirement relief, and life 
insurance. SSS also offers loans at reasonable rates that can be used for various purposes like putting 
a child through school or putting up a small business. 
I
These benefits can make the world of a difference to Filipinos, particularly those burdened 
by financial instability. However, contributions of individuals earning below P 100,000 annually are 
intermittent.
Our social protection programs cover the poorest of the poor but only 6.5% of the 12 million 
self-employed Filipinos are paying their SSS contributions. This is a lost opportunity for countrymen 
considered our working poor as well as our marginal income earners -farmers, fishermen, market 
and street vendors, and micro-entrepreneurs across the country.
This bill is the financial support and incentive system our MIEs need to encourage them to 
invest in their future and their security.
Let us ensure that all working Filipinos are being provided for and that our MIEs are not left 
behind as we continue to push for inclusive growth in the country.
Let us make the vital adjustments that help Filipinos help themselves.
In view of the foregoing, the approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
Senator Paolo Benigno "B arn" A. A quino IV
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
SENATE
S.B. No. 
177
xP TIME:
BILLS & IHBEa
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR A FULL TUITION FEE SUBSIDY FOR STUDENTS ENROLLED IN STATE 
UNIVERSITIES AND COLLEGES (SUCs), AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREOF
EXPLANATORY NOTE
In the Philippines, 2 out of 5 high school graduates do not pursue tertiary 
education, hindered by the high tuition fees in addition to miscellaneous expenses 
incurred while studying. After spending many years working hard to make ends meet 
in order to put their children through school to obtain a high school diploma, it is 
often a disappointment to students who face the choice between working to help 
their family or sacrificing the education of other siblings so that one may be sent to 
college.
In line with the mandate of our Constitution, the State must uphold the right 
of all citizens to quality education at all levels. This bill seeks to make tertiary 
education in all State Universities and Colleges free of tuition for its students and 
fully subsidized by government.
Tertiary education is a valuable key that can help Filipino families break out 
of the poverty cycle, as families headed by tertiary degree holders earn, on average, 
two times as much as families who do not have postsecondary education.
However, higher education is often only available to middle-income families 
who can afford the high tuition fees and extra costs. As a result, these families 
continue to reap the benefits of obtaining a postsecondary education while poor 
families continue struggling to reach beyond their current economic situation.
In a nation with glaring income and educational inequality, the provision of 
tuition-free college education will be one great leap toward developing our fragile 
democracy. By unlocking this opportunity, poor and low-income families stand to 
benefit the most and will be empowered both economically and socially to be able 
to fully participate in our democratic nation.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E  
S. B. No. 
7 4 0
.pnmv
(p ifiri of titp.ji! .’u  fiiH jj
'16 JIJL 21 AlO :39
H i ;
T-V:
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT
TO FURTHER STRENGTHEN THE STANDARD OF PROTECTION AND 
ENHANCEMENT OF THE WELFARE OF SELF-EMPLOYED WORKERS AND 
CRAFTSMEN AND THE PROMOTION OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP THEREBY 
AMENDING FOR THIS PURPOSE, SECTION 8 OF REPUBLIC ACT 8282 
OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE SOCIAL SECURITY ACT OF 1997
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Self-employment and entrepreneurship go hand-in-hand. 
The pursuit of 
economic growth and development is spurred by capital put forth by entrepreneurs, 
and entrepreneurs more often come from the ranks of specialized workers such as those 
from the self-employed and trade craftsmen sectors and offering their specific products 
or services.
In line with this, it is the duty of the State to not only protect the rights but also 
enhance the welfare of these specialized workers, thus urgent passage of this bill is 
sought.
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
i9 i(m» of 
.r-j
'16 
MJG-1 
PI ;58
SENATE
S.B. No. 
963
ur.'
Introduced by Senator Francis N. Pangilinan
AN ACT AMENDING SECTIONS 2 AND 3 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8187, 
OTHERWISE KNOWN AS “THE PATERNITY LEAVE ACT OF 1996”
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Section 1, Article XV of the Philippine Constitution recognizes the “Filipino family as 
the foundation of the nation” and mandates the State to “strengthen its solidarity and 
actively promote its total development.”
Republic Act No. 8187 or the “Paternity Leave Act’ was enacted in 1996 to allow a 
husband to effectively render support, care, and assistance to the wife in her period of 
recovery and/or nursing of the newly born child. Said law was promulgated in line with 
the State’s in Article II, Sec. 12 of the Constitution, which states, thus:
“The State recognizes the sanctity of family life and shall protect and 
strengthen the family as a basic autonomous social institution. It shall 
equally protect the life of the mother and the life of the unborn from 
conception. The natural and primary right and duty of parents in the 
rearing of the youth for civic efficiency and the development of moral 
character shall receive the support of the Government.”
Seventy-nine (79) countries worldwide have enacted laws on paternity leave and 
seventy (70) of said countries require a paid leave. The need for a paternity leave has 
drawn various studies worldwide including, “The Economist” (2015), which succinctly 
states that fathers who take paternity leave are more likely to take an active role in child 
care tasks, early interaction between father and child has longer-term positive impact on 
the child s learning abilities; and paternity leave is beneficial to women’s careers as 
child care responsibilities are shared between the father and the mother.
1
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S.B. No/ 
5 3
datg
t »me;
b y :___
s. BILLS C I
Introduced by Senator Francis N. Pangilinan
AN ACT ESTABLISHING A STRATEGIC FOOD SECURITY RICE RESERVE
AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Rice is the most important staple crop of the Philippines. Every Filipino consumes 
about 114 kilograms of rice annually. It is, therefore, crucial that rice is made accessible 
and affordable to every Filipino consumer particularly during times of emergencies and 
disasters.
With the objective of ensuring steady and ample supply of rice at affordable prices, 
this bill proposes to establish a strategic food security rice reserve. A minimum rice 
reserve equivalent to the fifteen (15) day national rice consumption is to be established, 
maintained, and controlled by the Government through the National Food Authority 
(NFA), the agency mandated to ensure food security in the country and the stability in 
the supply and price of rice.
The passage of this bill is, therefore, earnestly sought.
FRANCI
ANGILINAN
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES) 
First Regular Session)
SENATE
SENATE BILL NO. 329
Xj) TIME:
BILLS 4  WOEX
INTRODUCED BY SENATOR JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO
AN ACT
STRENGTHENING 
THE 
SECURITY OF TENURE 
OF 
WORKERS IN THE PRIVATE SECTOR, AMENDING FOR 
THE PURPOSE ARTICLES 248, 279, 280, 281 AND 288, AND 
INTRODUCING NEW ARTICLES 106, 106-A, 106-B, 106-C, 
106-D, 106-E, 280-A AND 280-B TO PRESIDENTIAL DECREE 
NO. 442, AS AMENDED, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE 
LABOR CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The 1987 Philippine Constitution, Article XIII, Section 3 thereof, states that:
The State shall afford full protection to labor, local and 
overseas, organized and unorganized, and promote full employment 
and equality of employment opportunities for all.
It is disheartening to know that our workers settle for intermittent and short­
term employment which affects not only their ability to earn livelihood but also their 
productivity and quality of work.
This bill recognizes subcontracting as a valid business practice but also 
safeguards workers from unscrupulous and dubious subcontracting. Hence, it balances 
legitimate business interest with the need to protect workers from insecure 
employment conditions.
In particular, this legislative proposal is characterized by the following:
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s. No. 
453
•■■■' ' - . W
 ( • ( ( i r r  
1 f r r t i i
16 
JUl 19 
All :f/j
■ 1 V[ I'  ) ' \
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
GRANTING SURVIVORSHIP BENEFITS TO THE SURVIVING LEGITIM ATE 
SPOUSE OF A DECEASED RETIRED MEMBER OF THE OFFICE OF SOLICITOR 
GENERAL
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Article XVI, Section 8 of the 1987 Constitution provides that the state shall, from time to time, review 
to increase the pensions and other benefits due to retirees of both the government and the private 
sectors. In consonance with the above provision, this measure seeks to upgrade the retirement benefits 
now found in various retirement laws by granting survivorship benefits to the surviving legitimate 
spouse of a deceased retired member of the Office of the Solicitor General.
Under Republic Act No. 9417, the Solicitor General shall have cabinet rank and the same 
qualifications for appointment, rank, prerogatives, salaries, allowances, benefits, and privileges as the 
Presiding Justice of the Court of Appeals; an Assistant Solicitor General, those of an Associate Justice 
of the Court of Appeals; and Senior State Solicitor, State Solicitor II and State Solicitor I those of a 
Regional Trial Court Judge, Metropolitan Trial Court Judge, and Municipal Trial Court in Cities 
Judge, respectively. Just recently, Congress enacted Republic Act No. 9946, amending RA 910 which 
provides survivorship pension forjudges. However, while RA 9417 explicitly acknowledges that 
certain members of the Office of the Solicitor General have the same rank as judges, the benefits 
provided for by RA 9946 are reserved for members of the judiciary only.
This measure is envisioned to respond to the aforesaid gap in the law by likewise affording the same 
benefits to the surviving legitimate spouse of a deceased retired member of the Office of the Solicitor 
General. These benefits recognize and honor said officers of the Office of the Solicitor General who 
have rendered almost a lifetime of service to the public and our people and hopefully to assist their 
family members who are left behind.
In view of the foregoing, immediate approval of this measure is earnestly sought.
ANTONIO^/S^NNy\ f^ TRIlVaNES IV
' 
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
)
i 4 y
'f|! l f>
SENATE
S. No.
547
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR THE STANDARD FOR THE PRACTICE OF REHABILITATION 
MEDICINE AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
In the past decade. Rehabilitation Medicine as a specialty has experienced growth in all 
aspects. The number of trainees, graduates, and certified diplomats and fellows has increased 
tremendously.
Alanning, however, is the fast pace at which rehabilitation centers have sprouted throughout 
the country, all with the noble intent of delivering expert rehabilitative care to Filipinos 
suffering from neuromusculoskeletal, cardiovascular, pulmonary, and other system disorders 
which produce temporary or permanent disability. Unfortunately, not all these rehabilitation 
centers are rendering what they purport to render.
Moreover, many of these rehabilitation centers are not headed by a physiatrist - a medical 
specialist who has trained a minimum of three (3) years in Rehabilitation Medicine - but by 
other medical and allied health professionals. By the nature of their training, physiatrists are 
in the best position to head rehabilitation centers and supervise the allied rehabilitative 
professionals: physical therapist, occupational therapists, speech therapist, orthotists, and 
prosthetists.
In the medical field, it is a physiatrist who is the specialist in medical rehabilitation and who 
is thus tasked to evaluate and treat patients with physical disabilities from the rehabilitation 
standpoint, and to manage and administer Rehabilitation Medicine departments, center, 
clinics or other similar facilities.
It is the objective of the proposed Rehabilitation Medicine Standard Act to set standards for 
the training and practice of Rehabilitation Medicine. This bill further sets technical and 
operational standard for rehabilitation centers which will function at the highest level of 
standard and be headed and supervised by duly trained and certified medical specialists in 
rehabilitation medicine, thereby protecting the interest of the Filipino patients who seek 
treatment from these centers.
.^niatp
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S. No.
'16 JUL19 P5:14
Ki r . ::
’'Y:
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
INSTITUTIONALIZING A PRE-HOSPITAL EMERGENCY MEDICAL CARE 
SYSTEM, PROVIDING FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT, SUPERVISION AND 
REGULATION OF THE PRE-HOSPITAL EMERGENCY, AND PROVIDING 
FUNDS THEREFOR
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Pre-Hospital Emergency medicine is relatively a new field of medical practice in the country. 
Despite this, the provision of emergency medical service in the country is continuing to grow 
and the linkages among practitioners/providers have become established. It has provided 
relevant life support services to patients with injuries and illness, or those in critical condition. 
Its growing practice and relevance in the country's healthcare therefore calls for the need to 
professionalize and regulate the practice.
This bill seeks to institutionalize a Prehospital Emergency Medical Care System (EMS) in the 
country through the creation of National Prehospital Care Council (NPCC). The Council shall 
be in charge with the formulation of policies governing the field of prehospital emergency 
medical services and related institutions; the development of high standards of operation for 
prehospital emergency care support service providers; and the engagement in research on 
prehospital care, technology, education and training; and the formulation of curricula and 
evaluation of existing courses, assessment and examination procedures. This bill also seeks to 
create one national emergency number to enable the public to access emergency medical 
services.
The increase in the number of highly qualified Emergency Medical Technicians and 
Paramedics is also sought in this measure through the creation of plantilla positions for 
Emergency Medical Technicians in all government hospitals.
In view of the foregoing, immediate approval of this measure is earnestly sought.
ANTONLONSONNY” F. TRILLANES IV
/  
Senator 
I
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E  
S. B. No. 
2 7 3
2!Ut
DATE
INDEX
BILLS
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT
PENALIZING 
CERTAIN 
ACTS 
IN 
THE 
IMPOSITION 
OF 
PLACEMENT FEES AGAINST OVERSEAS FILIPINO WORKERS
EXCESSIVE
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Each year, more than a million Filipinos leave the country to work abroad 
through overseas employment agencies and other programs; and in the course of the 
recruitment process, the government allows one (1) month salary placement fees 
charged to the prospective OFW to allow the employment agency to cover the cost of 
processing the application.
However, very few recruitment agencies comply with the standards set in 
charging placement fees, and some collect as much as four (4) times the monthly salary 
of the aspiring OFW. This practice of charging excessive processing fees can cost the 
prospective OFW as much as one-hundred thousand pesos (P100,000.00), and most get 
mired in debts even before getting hired, if not backing out from the recruitment 
process altogether.
Therefore, this bill deserves immediate consideration and approval.
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO