bettergovph/raw-philippine-data huggingface dataset:
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
Sena'te Bill No. 882 
) 
) 
) 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Prostate cancer is now one of the leading causes of death among Filipino 
males. Statistics show that about 25 percent (25%) of men afflicted with prostate 
cancer die ultimately. Patients who survive the cancer still require treatment to 
ease symptoms such as pain, bleeding and urinary obstruction. 
The American Cancer Society and the American Urological Association 
recommend that men forty (40) years or older undergo periodic testing for the 
early detection of prostate cancer. Early detection will prevent future disease 
progression. 
Also, treatment in the early stages of cancer is less costly than when done 
in its advanced stages. 
, 
This bill seeks to establish a program to educate the public and increase 
awareness on prostate cancer. 
In view hereof, the early passage of this proposed measure is highly 
recommended. 
Senator 


FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 
882 
} 
} 
} 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
ESTABLISHING A PROGRAM FOR PUBLIC EDUCATION ON PROSTATE 
CANCER 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Short Title - This Act may be cited as the "Prostate Cancer 
Public Awareness Act." 
SEC 2. Definition. - For purposes of this Act, the term -
(a) "Director" means the Director of the Non-Communicable Disease 
Control Service of the Department of Health. 
SEC 3. Establishment of Program for Public Education on Prostate 
Cancer. - The Director shall carry out a program on prostate cancer. Through the 
program, he shall conduct or support activities -
(a) 
to educate males who are forty (40) years of age or older on the 
need to periodically undergo physical examinations for such 
cancer, including education on the frequency and type of such 
examination that are appropriate for various age groups of such 
men; and 
(b) 
to educate males on the availability and appropriateness of 
procedures for detecting the cancer in its early stages, including 
the procedure known as prostate ultrasound. 
SEC 4. Separability Clause. - If any provision, or part hereof is held 
invalid or unconstitutional, the remainder of the law or the provision not otherwise 
affected shall remain valid and subsisting. 
SEC 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 provisions of this Act is hereby repealed, 
modified or amended accordingly. 


· 
' 
SEC 6. Effectivity Clause - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days 
after its publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
10 
liil --7 fH1 '15 
,-,"1_ 
_'" ., 
SENATE 
Senat~ Bill No. '188 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
In the case of Exconde vr>. Capuno, 101 Phil 843, the Supreme Court 
ruled that the provision of Article 2180 of the Civil Code applies only to 
institutions of arts and trades and, therefore, the teachers and the heads of 
academic educational institutions cannot be held liable for the negligent acts of 
their students. 
There is no substantial difference between institutions of arts and trades 
and academic educational institutions in so far as concerning the proper 
supervision and vigilance over their pupils or students. Academic teachers are 
not exempt from the duty of ensuring that their students do not commit a tort to 
the detriment of third persons, so long as they are in a position to exercise 
authority and supervision over their students. 
Considering the dissenting opinion of former Justice J.B.L. Reyes and the 
proliferation of not only institutions of arts and trade but also academic 
educational institutions, there w6uld be no sound reason for limiting Article 2180 
of the Civil Code to teachers of arts and trades only. Hence, this bill seeks to 
include academic educational institutions under the coverage of Article 2180. 
Hence, the immediate approval of this bill is earnestly requested. 
OY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
Senator 


FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
. 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 788 
~'ECnVf:!) IW· .. -t~ .... 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
, AN ACT 
AMENDING REPUBLIC ACT NO. 386, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE CIVIL 
CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES, ARTICLE 2180 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. The penultimqte paragraph of Article 2180, New Civil Code is 
hereby amended to read as follows: 
"Lastly, teachers or heads of establishment of arts and trades OR 
ACADEMIC EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS shall be liable for damages 
caused by their pupils and students or apprentices, so long as they remain 
in their custody. " 
SEC. 2. Separability Clause - If any provision, or part hereof, is held 
invalid or unconstitutional, the remainder of the law or the provision not otherwise 
affected shall remain valid and subsisting. 
SEC. 3. Repealing Clause - Any law, presidential decree or issuance, 
executive order, letter of instruction, administrative order, rule or regulation 
contrary to or inconsistent with, the provisions of this Act is hereby repealed, 
modified or amended accordingly. 
SEC. 4. Effectivity Clause - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days 
after its publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
SENATE 
555 
Senate Bill No. ___ _ 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
I 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Various cellphone companies look for ways to entice their customers to avail of 
their services through various promotions and strategies. Customers therefore 
are often victimized by such offerings sent by telecommunications companies via 
text or short messages (SMS) that jacks up their monthly bills or consumes their 
pre-paid credit. While some of the messages are received by the subscribers for 
free, they still remain unsolicited. 
There is a need therefore to regulate these indiscriminate offerings by prohibiting 
any matter sent by network companies via text or SMS which are not solicited by 
the subscriber. 
This bill seeks to prohibit cellphone network companies from unsolicited 
materials to their subscribers via text message or short message service (SMS). 
For these reasons, the passage of this bill is earnestly requested. 
Y EJERCITO ESTRADA 
Senator 


.. 
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC) 
I 
' 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
SENATE 
55~L' 
Senate Bill No. _-'"'!du_.t..J,JU ..... 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
PROHIBITING CELLPHONE NETWORK COMPANIES FROM SENDING 
UNSOLICITED MATERIAL TO THEIR SUBSCRIBERS VIA TEXT OR SHORT 
MESSAGE SERVICE (SMS) 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines 
in Congress assembled: 
, 
SECT-ION 1. With the exception of legitimate notifications of past due accounts, 
cellphone network companies are hereby prohibited from sending unsolicited 
materials such as advertisements, offering, promotions, subscriptions and other 
notifications to their subscribers via text or short message service (SMS). 
SEC 2. Penalty. - Cellphone network companies found to have violated this Act 
shall be punished with a fine of Twenty thousand pesos (P20,OOO.OO) to One 
hundred thousand pesos (P100,OOO.OO) per violation. 
SEC 3. Separability Clause. - If any clause, provision, paragraph or part of this 
Act shall be declared unconstitutional or invalid, such judgment shall not affect, 
invalidate or impair any other part hereof, but such judgment shall be merely 
confined to the clause, prOVision, paragraph or part directly involved in the 
controversy in which such judgment has been rendered. 
SEC 4. 
Repealing Clause. - All laws, decreed, executive orders and other 
administrative issuances and parts thereof which are inconsistent with the 
provisions of this Act are hereby modified, superseded or repealed accordingly. 
SEC 5. Effectivity. - This Act take effect fifteen (15) days following its publication 
in the Official Gazette or a major daily newspaper of general circulation in the 
Philippines, whichever comes earlier. 
Approved,
, 
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
£,2:J 
Senate Bill No. _-='0,-=.,.,>,-
) 
) 
) 
., 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
. "" 
". 
This bill seeks to repeal the entire Section 90 of Republic Act No. 7160, 
otherwise known as the Local Government Code of 1991, which prohibits and 
limits the practice of profession by elected government officials. 
This particular provision' has flagrantly been violated in the desire of 
elected government officials to augment their meager income by practicing their 
respective professions. Understandably, the Department of Interior and Local 
Government has manifestly failed to implement said provision, or enforce its 
faithful observance. 
While the members of the various professions who are elected local 
government officials are apparently allowed or tolerated to practice their 
respective professions, the lawyers on the other hand, appear to be the most 
affected by the prohibition and limitation as provided for under the said provision. 
It is proposed, therefore, to repeal the entire Section 90 of R.A. 7160 so as 
to provide for equality, fairness, and equitable treatment among the professionals 
who are elected local government officials by allowing them to practice their 
respective professions without any discrimination. 
The immediate approval of this bill is recommended. 
Senator 


• 
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 
6.23 
) 
) 
) 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
REPEALING SECTION 90 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7160, OTHERWISE 
KNOWN AS THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT CODE OF 1991, PROHIBITING AND 
LIMITING 
THE 'PRACTICE 
OF 
PROFESSION 
BY ELECTED 
LOCAL 
GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Section 90 of Republic Act No. 7160, otherwise known as the 
Local Government Code of 1991, prohibiting and limiting the practice of 
profession by elected local government officials, is hereby repealed. 
SEC 2. This. Act shall take effect upon its approval. 
Approved,. 
·,
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 843 
) 
) 
) 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Milk consumers are improperly informed about the contents of milk they 
acquire from the market. There is also no uniform standards as to the contents 
of skim milk, low fat milk and milk as beverage in final package. 
The Constitution, Article II, Section 15 provides that ''The State shall 
protect and promote the right to health of the people and instill health 
consciousness among them." In accordance with the constitutional mandate, this 
bill provides for the proper labeling of milk products indicating distinctly in its 
package the non-fat and protein contents of milk solids that are non fat in the 
classification of skim milk, low fat and milk beverage. With this innovation it is 
expected that the consuming public will be properly informed about the nutritional 
contents and value of the milk they consume. The quality of milk will likewise be 
upgraded in order to conform with proper nutritional standards. 
In view hereof, the early passage of this proposed measure is highly 
recommended. 
Senator 


FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
) 
) 
SE1\ ':'.,TE 
QfflCE 01- The SECI'lI''fA'''' 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 
843 
10 
JtlL -f'j fUL.30. 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
ESTABLISHING 
STANDARDS 
FOR THE 
IDENTITY 
OF 
MILK AND 
REQUIRING THE LABELING THEREOF 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Phifippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Short Title. 'This Act may be cited as the "Milk Nutrition and 
Labeling Act." 
' 
milk: 
SEC. 2. Milk Labeling. The following standards shall apply in identifying 
(a) 
Fluid milk shall indicate on its label such portion of milk which is 
non-fat; 
(b) 
(1) 
Skim milk, that is in its final package form for beverage use, 
shall contain not less than nine percent (9%) of milk solids 
that are non-fat; 
(2) 
Milk, that is in its final package form for beverage use, shall 
contain not less than ten percent (10%) of milk solids that 
are non-fat; 
(3) 
Milk, that is in its final package form for beverage use, shall 
contain not less than 8.7 percent of milk solids that are non-
fat; 
(c) 
The label on any milk product shall prominently display the 
nutritional contents and value of the milk (i.e. protein), 
SEC. 3. 
Separability Clause. 
If any proVision of part hereof, is held 
invalid or unconstitutional, the remainder of the law or the provision not otherwise 
affected shall remain valid and subsisting. 
SEC. 4. Repealing Clause. Any law, presidential decree or issuance, 
executive order, letter of instruction, administrative order, rule or regulation 
contrary to, or inconsistent with, the provisions of this Act is hereby amended or 
repealed, modified or amended accordingly. 


SEC. 5. Effectivity Clause. This Act shall take fifteen (15) days after its 
complete publication in the Official Gazette or in at least two (2) newspapers of 
general circulation. 
Approved,
~ . 
,: 
SE I'l t, TI" 
:" 
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 836 
OFFICE or- TW SEcRETARY 
) 
,~;. 
) 
) 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The primary election law of the land, most commonly known as the 
Omnibus Election Code of the Philippines, does not provide for a clear and 
distinct provision regarding the filing of petition to annul or suspend proclamation 
of winning candidates. 
I n this regard, this representation intends to incorporate in a specific 
provision which would provide the grounds for the filing of said petition, so as to 
finally address legal queries regarding this aspect of the electoral process. 
Thus, urgent passage of this proposed legislation is hereby sought. 
Senator 


FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
, SENATE 
) \' 
) 
) 
SF', ,T[ 
O~I'ICE 0" TH!: SECRETAAY 
d 
• 
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=========s=e=n=at=e=B=il=1 N=o=.=8=3=6====R=ECF=,=M=O='Mf=: =",b!= 
d 
__ 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
TO AMEND BATAS PAMBANSA BLG. 881, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE 
OMNIBUS ELECTION CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES, AS AMENDED, AND 
FOR OTHER PURPOSES 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1, Section 248 of Batas Pambansa Big, 881, otherwise known 
as the Omnibus Election Code of he Philippines is hereby amended top read as 
follows: 
"Sec, 248. Petition to Annul Proclamation; Effect. A PETITION TO 
ANNUL THE PROCLAMATION OF ANY CANDIDATE MAY BE FILED 
WITH 
THE 
COMMISSION 
WITHIN 
FIVE 
(5) 
DAYS 
FROM 
PROCLAMATION. THE FILING [with the Commission] of [a] SUCH 
petition [to annul or to suspend the proclamation of any candidate] shall 
suspend the running of the period within which to file an election protest or 
quo warranto proceedings," 
SEC. 2, 
Article XX of Batas Pambansa Big, 881 is also amended to 
include the following new provisions: 
"Sec, 248-A Grounds for Petition to Annul Proclamation. A 
PETITION TO ANNUL PROCLATION MAY BE FILED ON ANY OF THE 
FOLLOWING GROUNDS: 
(1) THE CANVASSED ELECTION RETURNS OR CERTIFICATES 
OF CANVASS ARE INCOMPLETE, CONTAIN MATERIAL 
DEFECTS, 
APPEAR 
TO 
BE 
TAMPERED 
WITH 
OR 
FALSIFIES, OR CONTAIN DISCREAPANSIES IN THE SAME 
RETURNS OR IN OTHER AUTHENTIC COPIES THEREOF; 
(2) THE ELECTION RETURNS OR CERTIFICATE OR CANVASS 
WERE PREPARED UNDER DURESS, THREATS, COERCION 
ORINTIMIDATION, OR ARE NOT AUTHENTIC; AND 
(3) WHEN 
SUBSTITUTE 
OR 
FRAUDULENT 
RETURNS 
0 
CERTIFICATES 
IN 
CONTESTED 
PRECINTS 
WERE 


• 
CONVASSED, THE RESULTS OF WHICH MATERIALLY 
AFECTED 
THE 
STANDING 
OF 
THE 
AGGRIEVED 
CANDIDATE OR CANDIDATES." 
SEC. 3. Repealing Clause. All laws, presidential decrees, issuances, 
orders, rules and regulations or any part thereof inconsistent herewith are hereby 
amended, repealed or modified accordingly. 
SEC. 4. Effectivity Clause. This Act shall take effect after fifteen (15) 
days following the completion of its publication in the Official Gazette or in at 
least two (2) newspapers of gene~al circulation. 
Approved,
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC ) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
H) 
JUL -) Pl :46 
SENATE 
Senate Bill N6. 
83 
INTRODUCED BY SENATOR JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
In a society that adheres to freedom of speech and expression, it is a must 
that the existing laws be revised with regard to the act of libel. While a 
newspaperman may share his views publicly on controversial issues and 
individuals, he remains unprotected from the risk of imprisonment if convicted of 
libel. This loophole is in direct opposition of the freedom of speech and should 
therefore warrant the 
necessary 
revisions. 
Libel 
should 
therefore 
be 
decriminalized in light of protecting the right to speech and self-expression. 
Such an amendment loosens the restraint on the free flow if information 
and thus fosters the growth of a free and open society. Socially-relevant issues 
must have room for open debated and 
public discussion. With the 
decriminalization of libel, the safeguards on speech and expression are 
strengthened. 
Approval of the bill is earnestly sought. 
Senator 


FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC) 
- \c 
O~j:tCE (;): L 
<c j. ~',E r, d~V 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
o 
','I" -1, 
"1 ','" 
" , L 
\' 
·ID 
SENATE 
Senate Bill N-6~ , __ 
8_3_ 
OEC'V'"~' '-f' 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
TO ABOLISH THE PENALTY OF IMPRISONMENT IN LIBEL CASES 
AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE ARTICLES 355 AND 360 OF REPUBLIC 
ACT NO. 3815, AS AMENDED, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE REVISED 
PENAL CODE, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES 
Be if enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines on 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1, Article 355 of Act No, 3815, as amended, otherwise known 
as the Revised Penal Code, is hereby amended by adding another paragraph 
after the first paragraph thereof to read as follows: 
THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLES 90 AND 
91 
TO THE 
CONTRARY NOTWITHSTANDING, THE OFFENSE AND PENALTY 
IMPOSED ABOVE SHALL PRESCRIBE IN SIX (6) MONTHS COUNTED 
FORM THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION, AIRING OR 
EXHIBITION OF THE LIBELOUS MATERIAL. 
SEC. 2, The First and Second Paragraphs of Art, 360 of the Code are 
further amended to read as follows: 
"Art. 360. Persons liable, - [Any person who shall publish, 
exhibit, or cause the publication or exhibition of any defamation in 
writing or by similar means,] THE AUTHOR OF THE PRINTED 
ARTICLE OR ANY PERSON WHO SHALL CAUSE THE EXHIBITION 
OF THEATRICAL OR CINEMATOGRAPHIC EXHIBIT CONTAINING 
DEFAMATORY WORDS shall be responsible for the same. 
"The editor of a book or pamphlet or the publisher, editor or 
business manager of a daily newspaper, magazine or serial publication 
shall be responsible for any defamation contained therein to the extent 
as if he were the author thereof PROVIDED DEFAMATORY ARTICLE 
PASSED THROUGH SAID PUBLISHER, EDITOR OR BUSINESS 
MANAGER FOR EDITING AND 
REQUIRED THE 
LATTER'S 
APPROVAL FOR PUBLICATION. 
SEC. 3. This Act shall take effect after the fifteen (15) days of following its 
publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
, " 
\ ~~ 
r..:.""."., ,;;", .,(. ~.('Mf f!"t;v 
'tl4~ .. """~, 
• 
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
10 
SENATE 
S. NO. 308 
Introduced by Senators Antonio "Sonny" F. Trillanes IV 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
This bill seeks the inclusion of enlisted personnel to the coverage of Presidential Decree 
No. 1638 Section 20 by allowing them to enjoy the same privilege enjoyed by the officers 
of the Armed Forces ofthe Philippines (AFP) with regard to separation pay for those who 
are honorably separated from the service before reaching twenty (20) years of active 
service. 
Under Section 20 of Presidential Decree No. 1638, as amended, only officers in the AFP 
with less than twenty (20) years of active service separated under Sections 10, 11, 12, or 
16 ofthe above mentioned law, are entitled to separation pay equivalent to one (1) month 
base pay and longevity pay of every permanent grade he holds for every year of active 
service. 
There is therefore a compelling need to amend Presidential Decree No. 1638, as 
amended, in order to correct the inequity and greatly enhance the morale and welfare of 
the rank and file ofthe AFP. 
. 
The immediate passage ofthis bill is earnestly requested. 
1 


FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
SENATE 
S.NO. 308 
, 
o-~~itx ~lt; Tt,'(~ 
it-Ct~e r;\jf/ 
Introduced by Senators Antonio "Sonny" F. Trillanes IV 
AN ACT 
AMENDING SECTION 20 OF P:({ESIDENTIAL DECREE NUMBERED 1638, AS 
AMENDED BY PRESIDENTIAL DECREE 1650, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS 
THE ARMED FORCES OF THE PHILIPPINES RETIREMENT LAW 
Be it enacted by the Senate· and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled. 
I 
SECTION 1. Section 20 of Presidential Decree Numbered Sixteen Hundred 
2 
Fifty, as amended, is hereby amended to read as follows: 
3 
4 
"Sec. 20. An officer with less than twenty (20) years of active service separated 
5 
under Sections 10, 11, 12 or 16 OR AN ENLISTED PERSON WITH LESS 
6 
THAN TWENTY (20) YEARS OF ACTIVE SERVICE HONORABLY 
7 
SEPARATED, shall be entitled to a separation pay equivalent to one (1) month 
8 
base pay and longevity pay of the permanent grade he holds for every year of 
9 
active service." 
10 
11 
SEC. 2. The Secretary 0 f National Defense shall prescribe the rules and 
12 
regulations necessary for the implementation ofthis Act. 
13 
14 
SEC. 3. All laws, decrees, executive orders, rules and regulations, other issuances 
15 
or parts thereof, which are inconsistent with this Act are hereby repealed, amended or 
16 
modified accordingly. 
17 
18 
SEC. 4. This Act shall take effect after fifteen (15) days following its complete 
19 
publication in at least two (2) national newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved, 
1
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 785 
) 
) 
) 
10 
JUL-7 P5:14 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
It is a matter of public knowledge that our housing program has not been 
adequate as would optimally address the issue of shelter for our growing 
population notwithstanding the incentives already allowed under existing laws 
and rules and regulations. The first indication of this inadequacy is the sharp 
increase in the price .of real estates particularly those located in heavily populated 
urban areas like Metro Manila. The economic adjustments have put the bare 
costs of purchasing a piece of land and building a house beyond the reach of 
many. 
On top of these, calamitil;ls have visited our country with the end effect of 
depriving those who have houses and dwelling places. 
In view of the foregoing, it has become necessary for the government to 
grant more incentives to developers, owners and builders of residential buildings 
and housing projects. This bill proposes to exempt them from the payment of real 
estate taxes while the construction is in progress up to the time of the completion 
of said residential buildings and.housing projects. The probable loss of revenues 
arising from the approval of this bill is more than compensated by the 
encouragement it gives to those who would contribute to the availability of more 
dwelling places. 
Senator 


FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 785 
} 
) 
) 
"~,' . ..' 
\ },<.,~~ .... ,," 
10 
,JUl. -7 P5 :14 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
PROVIDING TAX INCENTIVES TO DEVELOPERS AND BUILDERS OF 
RESIDENTIAL BUILDING ANDIOR HOUSING PROJECTS BY EXEMPTING 
THEM FROM THE PAYMENT'OF REAL ESTATE TAXES, DEFINING THE 
CONDITION THEREOF AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES 
Be if enacted by the 'Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION I. Declaration of Policy. - It is hereby declared to be the 
national policy to encourage the development and construction of residential 
buildings and housing projects 'as means of realizing the objectives of the 
national shelter program of the government. 
SEC. 2. Exemption from Real Estate Taxes. - Any provision of law, 
decree, 
executive 
order, 
and 
rules 
and 
regulations 
to 
the 
contrary 
notwithstanding, all developers, owner and/or builders of residential buildings and 
housing projects shall be exempted from the payment of real estate taxes 
imposable on said residential or housing projects while the construction is in 
progress and until their completion. The said privilege may also be availed of by 
any person owning a unit in said residential buildings or housing projects. 
SEC. 3. Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its 
publication in two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S N -'. 
272 
. u. __ 
_ 
Introduced by Senator Antonio "Sonny" F. Trillanes IV 
Explanatory Note 
Section 1 of Article XIV of the Constitution provides that the State shall protect and promote the 
right of all citizens to quality education at all levels and take appropriate steps to make education 
accessible to all. Further, section 2(1) of the same article provides that the State shall establish 
and maintain a system of free public education in the elementary and high school levels. 
However, there are school fees which under certain laws can be lawfully collected from the 
students to wit: 
a. membership fees in the Girl Scouts of the Philippines and the Boy Scouts of the 
Philippines under Republic Act No. 5546; and 
b. fees related to membership in the school community such as identification cards, 
student organizations and publications under Republic Act No. 6655. 
The abovementioned fees are still burdensome on the pat1 of the students and the parents. Hence, 
this bill aims to really help alleviate the financial burden of the students and parents by declaring 
the above fees free to be subsidized by the government. 
In view of the foregoing, immediate approval of this bill is earnestly sought. 
~~(,--------/ 
'0 "Sonny" F. Trillanes IV 
Senator 
1 


FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S. NO. ----,2=-.;7'-'.:2,,-
Introduced by Senator Antonio "Sonny" F. Trillanes IV 
AN ACT 
/ 
l' 
,~ 
TO SUBSIDIZE SCHOOL FEES IN ALL PUBLIC ELEMENTARY AND HIGH 
SCHOOLS 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Declaration of Policy.- It is hereby declared policy of the State to establish 
2 
and maintain It system of free public education in the elementary and high school levels. 
3 
4 
SEC. 2. School Fees' Subsidies.- In addition to school fees declared to be free in other 
5 
laws, the following school fees shall likewise be free to be subsidized by the government. 
6 
a. membership fees in the Girl Scouts of the Philippines; 
7 
b. membership fees in the Boy Scouts of the Philippines; 
8 
c. identification card fee; 
9 
d. student organization fee; and 
10 
e. publication fee. 
II 
12 
SEC. 3. Separability Clause.- The provisions of this Act are hereby declared to be 
13 
separable, and in the event any part, section or provision of this Act is held invalid or 
14 
unconstitutional, no other part, section or provision thereof shall be affected thereby. 
1 


I 
SEC.,4. Repealing Clause.- All laws. parts of laws, executive orders, ordinances, rules 
2 
and regulations which are inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are hereby repealed, 
3 
amended or modified accordingly. 
4 
5 
SEC. 5. Effectivity.- This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days following the 
6 
completion of its publication in the Official Gazette or in a national newspaper of general 
7 
circulation. 
Approved, 
2
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 588 
) 
) 
) 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The 1987 Constitution underscores the right of all workers "to participate 
in policy and decision-making processes affecting their rights and benefits as 
may be provided by law." 
This bill, when enacted, will provide the impetus for the representation of 
employees of government-owned and controlled corporations in their respective 
Board of Directors. Since these employees have a stake in the failure or success 
of these entities, it is only fitting and proper that these employees be represented 
in the governing bodies so as to enable them to make known their views on 
corporate matters and actively participate in its governance. 
Passage of this bill is earnestly sought. 
Senator 


, 
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 588 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
TO PROVIDE FOR 
DIRECTORS 
OF 
CORPORATIONS 
AN ACT 
LABOR, REPRESENTATION 
GOVERNMENT -OWNED 
IN THE BOARD OF 
AND-CONTROLLED 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. 
Title. This Act shall be known as the "Labor Sector 
Representation in the Board of Directors of Government-Owned and 
Controlled Corporations Act of 2010." 
SEC. 2. 
Board Membership. The Board of Directors of government-
owned and controlled corporations with or without original charters shall include 
one representative from the rank and file employees. 
SEC. 3. 
Selection. 
The labor representative from the rank and file 
employees shall be elected by all the employees regardless of their tenure of 
employment or membership or non-membership in a union. 
SEC. 4. Function. The labor representative to the board of Directors 
shall perform the same functions, have the same voting rights, be paid the same 
functions, have the same voting rights, be paid the same emoluments, and enjoy 
the same privileges as those enjoyed by the other members of the Board of 
Directors. 
SEC. 5. 
Implementing Rules. 
The Department of Labor and 
Employment and the Civil Service Commission shall jointly promUlgate the rules 
and regulations to implement the provisions of this Act. 
SEC. 6. Repealing Clause. All laws or parts thereof inconsistent with 
any provision of this Act shall be deemed repealed or modified as the case may 
be, 
SEC. 7. Effectivity. This Act shall take effect immediately. 
Approved, 
.; I'
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 486 ft.::· !ii~r~.I~lVim \:i" ~ 
: . 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Special Education Fund arises from the additional one percent (1 %) 
tax on real property and is allotted by the Local Government Code to the local 
school boards. This Fund is allocated by the Code for the operation and 
maintenance of public schools; construction and repair of school buildings, 
facilities and equipment; educational research; purchase of books and 
periodicals; and sports development in amounts determined by the local school 
boards themselves. 
However, these purposes and applicants do not respond to the challenges 
of the changing times. Thus, there is a need to amend the Local Government 
Code. To ensure the quality of our education system, the purposes and 
applications of Special Education Fund must be expanded. 
The passage of this bill is earnestly sought. 
Senator 


" 
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. <4 B 6 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
EXPANDING THE PURPOSES AND APPLICATION OF THE SPECIAL 
EDUCATION FUND (SEF) AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SECTION 272 OF 
REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7160, OTHERWISE 
KNOWN 
AS THE LOCAL 
GOVERNMENT CODE OF 1991, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Section 272 of Republic Act No, 7160 is hereby amended to 
read as follows: 
' 
"The proceeds from the additional one percent (1%) tax on real property 
accruing to the SEF shall be automatically released to the 'local school 
boards; Provided, That in case of provinces, the proceeds shall be divided 
equally between the provincial and municipal school boards; Provided, 
however, That the proceeds shall be allocated for the operation and 
maintenance of public schools, 
INCLUDING THE PAYMENT OF 
ELECTRIC AND WATER BILLS; construction and repair of school 
buildings, 
facilities 
and 
equipment, 
PAYMENT 
OF 
SALARIES, 
ALLOWANCES AND OTHER BENEFITS OF TEACHING AND 
NON-
TEACHING PERSONNEL, ESTABLISHMENT AND MAINTENANCE OF 
EXTENSION CLASSES, INCLUDING THE CREATION OF TEACHER 
ITEMS FOR SAID CLASSES, educational research, purchase of [books] 
PRESCRIBED TEXTBOOKS, periodicals, TEACHING AIDS, OTHER 
INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS, and sports development as determined 
and approved by the local school board." 
SEC. 2. Repealing Clause. - All laws, orders, decrees, rules and 
regulations or parts thereof inconsistent with this Act are hereby repealed or 
amended accordingly. 
SEC. 3. Effectivity. -This Act shall take effect within fifteen (15) days after 
its publication in two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
, 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
2~9 
s. NO. _--'.:C..=.v-=-
" 
-
Introduced by Senator Antonio "Sonny" F. Trillanes IV 
Explanatory Note 
This bill seeks to redefine the third level positions in the career civil service and establish the 
same as career positions. 
The Constitution provides that "appointment in the civil service shall be made only according to 
merit and fitness to be determined as far as practicable, and, except to positions which are policy-
determining, primarily "no officer or employee of the civil service shall be removed or 
suspended except for cause provided by the law. 
Under Presidential Decree No. 807, otherwise known as the Civil Service Decree, positions in 
the career service with security of tenure include the Undersecretary, Assistant Secretary, Bureau 
Director, Assistant Bureau Director, Regional Director, Assistant Regional Director, as may be 
identified by the Career Executive Service Board. They are classified as third level positions. 
This bill aims to implement the aforementioned Constitutional provision towards fully 
professionalizing the bureaucracy. 
Approval of this bill is earnestly urged. 
;t;!IF: j'L-L-A--ti:E
=--, S-I-V--'--
Senator 
1 


FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
') t'9 
SNO 
... ;:,) 
.. _---
Introduced by Senator Antonio "Sonny" F. Trillanes IV 
AN ACT 
REDEFINING THE THIRD LEVEL POSITIONS IN THE CAREER CIVIL SERVICE 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
1 
SECTION 1. 
All third level positions in the career civil service as defined under 
2 
Presidential Decree No.807 shall be appointed by the President: Provided, That no person shall 
3 
be appointed to such positions unless he possesses the following qualifications: 
4 
a) Appointed academic and professional background; 
5 
b) Career Executive Service Eligibility; 
6 
c) Has been occupying another comparable or next in the rank career position in the 
7 
government; 
8 
d) Has reached the required age for the position; 
9 
e) Not disqualified under any existing law. 
10 
11 
Provided jill"ther, That this section shall not apply to those presently occupying the position. 
12 
13 
SEC. 2. Any person appointed to any third level position shall hold office during good 
14 
behavior until he reaches the age of sixty-five (65) years, unless sooner removed for cause as 
15 
provided by existing law or become incapacitated to discharge the duties of his office. 
16 
17 
SEC. 3. All laws, decrees, orders, rules and regulations or parts thereof inconsistent with 
18 
this Act are hereby repealed or amended accordingly. 
1 


1 
SEC. 4. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days upon its publication in at least two 
2 
(2) general newspapers of national circulation. 
Approved, 
2
.' 
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 4 5 9 
,,j 
)",11 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The first successful defense of the Philippine freedom against foreign 
invaders and the first recorded triumph of the Filipino forces over superior western 
firepower took place in the historic battle of Mactan four hundred eighty nine (489) 
years ago. 
This victory in April 27, 1521 catapulted Lapu-Lapu, the King of Mactan, into 
the limelight of history as the first Filipino and Southeast Asian Hero. 
, 
If the nations celebrated the defeat and surrender of U.S. and Filipino 
forces in Bataan and Corregidor on April 9 of each year, then there is more reason 
to commemorate the successful exploit of Lapu-Lapu and his Warriors on April 27 
of every year. 
Therefore, passage of this bill is earnestly sought. 
Senator 


• 
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. <159 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
TO DECLARE APRIL 27 OF EVERY YEAR AS A SPECIAL NON-WORKING 
HOLIDAY THROUGHOUT THE COUNTRY TO COMMEMORATE THE VICTORY 
OF LAPU-LAPU AND HIS MEN OVER THE SPANIARDS LED BY FERNANDO 
MAGALLANES IN THE HISTORIC BATTLE OF MACTAN ON APRIL 27, 1521, 
TO BE KNOWN AS LAPU-LAPU DAY OR ADLAW NI LAPU-LAPU. 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. The twenty-seventh day of April of every year is hereby 
declared 
as 
a special 
non-working 
holiday throughout the 
country to 
commemorate the victory of Lapu-Lapu and his men over the Spaniards in the 
historic battle of Mactan on April 17, 1521 to be known as Lapu-Lapu Day or 
Adlaw ni Lapu-Lapu. 
SEC. 2. 
To ensure a meaningful observance of the holiday a~ herein 
declared, all heads of govemment agencies and instrumentalities, including 
government owned and controlled corporations as well as local government units, 
and employers in the private sector shall encourage and afford sufficient time and 
participate in any activity conducted in their respective localities to celebrate Lapu-
Lapu Day or Adlaw ni Lapu-Lapu. 
SEC. 3. 
This Act shall take effect three days (3) days following its 
publication in at least two (2) national newspapers of general circulations or in the 
Official Gazette. 
Approved,
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 705 
) 
) 
) 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
This measure is a consolidated/substituted bill drafted by the Committee 
on Justice and Human Rights du~ing the 14th Congress. 
The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) reported an 
alarming increase in the incidence of thievery of mobile phones, commonly 
known as cell phone snatching, thereby adversely affecting the personal security 
of our people and their means of communication. 
There is an urgent need to protect our people from cell phone snatchers as 
well as thieves of other related gadgets such as personal digital assistants and 
laptop or notebook computers which are devices for information and 
communication. 
This bill seeks to provide stiffer penalties for crime of theft and robbery of 
portable communication devices such as cellphones, personal digital assistants, 
portable computers, two-way radios and other portable communication 
equipment. 
In view of the foregoing, approval of this bill is earnestly sought. 
Senator 


• 
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
,SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 
7 0 5 
) 
) 
) 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
t~{>r:' 
, {'" 
,)\1 :) f-:" 
PROVIDING STIFFER PENALTIES FOR CRIME OF THEFT AND ROBBERY 
OF PORTABLE COMMUNICATION DEVICES 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Short Title. - This Act shall be known as the "Anti- Theft 
and Robbery of Portable Telecommunication Devices Act of 2010," 
SEC. 2. Definition. - Portable telecommunication device shall refer to 
cellular telephones, personal digital assistants, portable computers, two-way very 
high frequency (VHF) or ultra high frequency (UHF) radios and other portable 
communication equipments utilized to transmit messages, documents, photos, 
images, videos, or information through air, radio or satellite frequencies. 
SEC. 3. Penal Provision. - Any person convicted of the crime of theft and 
robbery as defined under chapters one and three of Title Ten of the Revised 
Penal Code of a portable telecommunication device shall be punished by the 
penalty next higher in degree than those respectively specified in the 
aforementioned articles; Provided, that the additional penalty specified herein 
shall no longer be made applicable if the imposable penalty is in its maximum 
period. 
SEC. 4. Repealing Clause. - All laws, decrees, orders, rules and 
regulations or other issuances or parts thereof inconsistent with the provision of 
this Act are hereby repealed or modified accordingly. 
SEC.. 5. Separability CJause. - If my portion of this Act is declared 
unconstitutional, the remainder of this Act or any provision not affected thereby 
shall remain in force and effect. 
SEC. 6. Effectivity. - 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,
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
SENATE 
JUl -6 119 :1/2 
" 
S.NO. 
Introduced by Senator Antonio "Sonny" F. Trillanes IV' 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
District Engineering Offices or DEOs of the Department of Public Works and Highways 
(DPWH) are tasked to develop our country's infrastructure nationwide. They are the forefronts in 
executing infrastructure improvements as they are located in every legislative district throughout 
the country. 
This kind of set -up aims to provide faster delivery of services to fulfill their mandate of 
implementing and initiating infrastructure projects such as the construction of new roads and 
bridges as well as the maintenance of already existing infrastructure projects. 
There is however a need to streamline and re-number these DEOs to be consistent with the 
numbering of the legislative districts to ensure better delivery of services. This bill seeks to re-
number all district engineering offices to correspond with the numbering of the legislative 
districts to guarantee a more effective and accurate delivery of infrastructure projects to our 
countrymen. 
In view of the foregoing, immediate passage of this bill is earnestly sought. 
1 


FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
.. , 
S.NO. 
250 
Introduced by Senator Antonio "Sonny" F. Trillanes IV 
AN ACT 
JUt -6 1\ 9 :()2 
RENUMBERING ALL EXISTING DISTRICT ENGINEERING OFFICES OF THE 
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS AND HIGHWAYS TO CONFORM AND 
CORRESPOND WITH THE NUMBERINGS OF THE LEGISLATIVE DISTRICTS 
THROUGHOUT THE COUNTRY 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the Souse of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
assembled 
1 
SECTION 1. This Act shall be known as the "District Engineering Offices 
2 
Rationalization Act". 
3 
4 
SEC. 2. All district engineering offices (DEOs) of the Department of Public Works and 
5 
Highways throughout the country shall be renumbered accordingly to conform and correspond 
6 
with the numberings of the legislative districts where they are respectively located. 
7 
8 
SEC. 3. The Secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways shall issue the 
9 
necessary rules and regulations to carry out the purpose of this Act, 
10 
11 
SEC. 4. Separability Clause. - Any other laws which are not affected thereby shall 
12 
continue to be in full force and effect. 
13 
14 
SEC. 5. Repealing Clause. - All acts, laws, decrees, executive orders, rules and 
15 
regulations or parts thereof which are contrary to or inconsistent with this Act are hereby 
16 
repealed, amended or modified accordingly. 
17 
18 
SEC. 6. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (IS) days after its 
19 
publication in a newspaper of general circulation. 
Approved, 
1