bettergovph/raw-philippine-data huggingface dataset:
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
SENATE
S.B. NO. 179
DATE
BILLS
Introduced by Senator Maria Lourdes Nancy S. Binay
AN ACT
AMENDING SECTION 24 OF THE NATIONAL INTERNAL REVENUE CODE 
OF 1997, AS AMENDED, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Article VI, Section 28 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution provides: “1. The rule of 
taxation shall be uniform and equitable. The Congress shall evolve a progressive system 
of taxation, xxx”. With this in mind, the current National Internal Revenue Code of 
1997 or the Tax Code came into effect on said year and has seen minimal changes to 
date.
In particular, the income tax rates and brackets for individual tax payers are yet to be 
amended or updated. It bears emphasis that the Consumer Price Index (CPI) has 
changed and continue to change since the enactment of the Tax Code.
According to the Philippine Statistics Authority the CPI in 2015 is 141.5 using the base 
year 2006. A general interpretation of this index in terms of price level can be said that 
what cost at PI00 in 2006, now costs P141.5 in 2015. In other words, the purchasing 
power of an individual earning the same amount of money in previous years weakened.
It is the opportune time to address this situation especially for our fellow country men 
who are earning just enough to live and survive day after day giving them the 
opportunity towards financial stability and security.
For instance, the most common household in the Philippines is a family composed of 
parents having two to three children. They need the following for subsistence: to eat at 
least three times a day, they need to pay rent, they need to commute to and from their 
work, they need to spend on miscellaneous expenses as well as be ready for any 
emergency expenses. For said family to live comfortably on a budget, the family needs 
an estimated amount of at least thirty thousand pesos (P30,000.00) a month. The 
moment the said amount is taxed, the burden is felt by the family and they need to adjust 
and cut down expenses either on food, transportation or clothing which are basic 
necessities in life.
In reality many earn below thirty thousand pesos (P30,000.00) a month, a great deal of 
which are middle income earners, and many cut down on basic necessities just to cope 
with everyday living. It is worthy to note that middle income earners are the ones who 
immediately feel the undue burden of paying taxes because they are the ones bordering 
higher income tax brackets.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
(if (hr >"■> rxl, u
*16 
JUL21 
P 2 - 4 0
S. No
SENATE
821
K i r !
,TV:
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto
AN ACT
EXCLUDING 13th MONTH PAY FROM THE COMPUTATION OF TAXABLE 
INCOME AMENDING FOR THIS PURPOSE SECTION 32 (B) (7) (e) OF REPUBLIC 
ACT NO. 8424 OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE NATIONAL INTERNAL REVENUE 
CODE OF 1997, AS AMENDED
Explanatory Note
It is the policy of the State to 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 frill employment, a rising standard of living, and an 
improved quality of life for all.
It is with the same objective that this measure is being proposed. This bill seeks to 
exclude the 13u month pay from the computation of taxable income amending for the purpose 
Section 32 (B) (7) (e) of Republic Act No. 8424, otherwise known as the “National Internal 
Revenue Code of 1997”, as amended. This would help cushion the diminishing purchasing 
power of employees and workers both in the private and public sector thereby increasing their 
disposable income.
The intent in enacting Presidential Decree No. 851, as amended by Memorandum Order 
No. 28, otherwise known as the “13,h Month Pay Law” is to provide the working masses 
additional income in time for the celebration of Christmas and New Year. Therefore, subjecting 
the same to income tax would defeat the very purpose of the law.
The amount to be excluded from the computation of taxable income would mean greater 
financial flexibility for employees and would put more food on the table and help ensure their 
children’s education.
The proposed legislation will benefit an estimated 39.8 M employees from the private 
and public sector .
Hence, immediate passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
October 2015 Labor Force Survey.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S.B. No. 
3 2 7
ifi TIME;
BILLS &
Introduced by Senator Cynthia A. Villar
AN ACT
ESTABLISHING THE COASTAL ENVIRONMENT PROGRAM, APPROPRIATING 
FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Coastal environments encompass different ecosystems such as shore lands, 
mangroves, seagrass beds and coral reefs. They are among the most productive 
and biologically diverse landscapes known to man. In an archipelagic country like the 
Philippines, where over 80% of the major settlements are located within ten or 
twenty kilometers from the shorelines, coastal environments are critical and often 
dominant ecological presuppositions of economic, social and cultural life. Thus, the 
protection and proper management of coastal environments are important concerns 
of the State and are explicitly mandated by the Constitution.
The adoption of a Coastal Environment Program (CEP) is within the 
objectives, provisions, scoping and principles of the Philippine Strategy for 
Sustainable Development (PSSD), as well of the actions and agreements adopted 
by the Philippine Council for Sustainable Development (PCSD) related to the pursuit 
of the objectives of the Agenda 21 of the United Nations Conference on Environment 
and Sustainable Development (UNCED) and of such other protocols and treaties to 
which the Philippines has committed to abide.
I earnestly recommend the approval of this bill.
i/J\
CYNTHIA A. V IL L A ^
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
,rl
' f u f .  of tlir 
t . pf i! t
'16 
AUG-1 
All :19
SENATE
s. No. 919
Ft
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto
AN ACT
INCREASING THE ALLOWABLE PERSONAL EXEMPTION OF INDIVIDUAL 
TAXPAYERS, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SECTION 35 (A) OF THE 
NATIONAL INTERNAL REVENUE CODE OF 1997, AS AMENDED, AND FOR 
OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
It is provided under Section I, Article XV of the 1987 Philippine Constitution that the 
State recognizes the Filipino family as the foundation of the nation and accordingly, it shall 
strengthen its solidarity and actively promote its total development. In addition, the same Article 
ordains that the State shall defend the right of the family to a family living wage and income.
In recognition of the above Constitutional precepts. Congress, in enacting Republic Act 
No. 8424, otherwise known as the National Internal Revenue Code of 1997 (Tax Code), allowed 
individuals to claim for personal exemptions under Section 35 thereof In a decided case, the 
Supreme Court said:
“XXX Personal exemptions are the theoretical personal, living, 
and family expenses of an individual allowed to be deducted from the 
gross or net income of an individual taxpayer. 
Tliese are arbitrary 
amounts which have been calculated by our lawmakers to be roughly 
equivalent to the minimum subsistence, taking into account the personal 
status and additional qualified dependents of the taxpayer. They are 
fixed amount in the sense that the amounts have been predetermined by 
our lawmakers as provided under Section 35 (A) and (B). Unless and 
until our new lawmakers make new adjustments on these personal 
exemptions, the amounts allowed to be deducted by a taxpayer are fixed 
as predetermined by Congress.1”
Prior to its amendment in 2008, the Tax Code provides for different amounts of personal 
exemptions depending on the personal status of the taxpayer. A single individual was allowed a 
basic personal exemption of P20,000, for head of family, P25,000 and for each married 
individual, P32,000. With the enactment of Republic Act No. 9504 in 2008, the allowable 
personal exemption for each taxpayer has been increased to a unifomi amount of Fifty thousand 
pesos (P50,000) regardless of the personal status of the taxpayer.
1 Carmelino F. Pansacola vs. Commissioner of Internal Revenue, G.R. No. 159991, promulgated on November 16 
2006.
Page 1 of3
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S.B. No. 
687
SflUttk
•16 JUL 20 P4X)2
Ki:<
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT INSTITUTIONALIZING THE PANTAWID PAMILYANG PILIPINO ROGRAM
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Despite country's success in achieving moderate economic growth, the results of the 
2015 Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey still show that 50% of Filipinos consider 
themselves as poor. This result is a call for the national government to strengthen its effort 
in addressing problems of unemployment and alleviating poverty. A study conducted by 
Asian Development Bank in 2006 suggests a strong link between poverty levels and 
educational attainment. Almost 50% of household heads who did not complete any formal 
schooling are poor while only 2% of college graduates have income below the poverty line. 
Despite Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reporting an increase in subsistence incidence 
among Filipino Families from 10% in 2012 to 9.2% in the first semester of 2015, it is still 
reported that incomes of poor families were short by 29% of the poverty threshold. Based 
on this, on the average, an additional monthly income of PHP 2649 is needed by a poor 
family with five members in order to move out of poverty in the first semester of 2015.
These data show that despite the decrease in in poverty levels, improvement to 
current poverty alleviation efforts is much needed. It is in this line of reasoning that we 
push for the institutionalization of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program. Pantawid 
Pamilyang Pilipino Program is a human development measure of the national government 
that provides conditional cash grants to the poorest of the poor, to improve the health, 
nutrition, and the education of children aged 0-18. Other countries have been implementing 
similar programs like Argentina's Universal Allowance for Children, Brazil's Family Grant, and 
Chile's Solidarity System which all have reduced their poverty levels significantly. All these
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
Senate
(Oif.rt 
til*
*16 JUL 18 P6«7
S E N A T E  
S.B. NO. 
3 9 4
RFv'ElVl J) BY;
Introduced by SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA
AN ACT AMENDING REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8439, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS 
“AN ACT PROVIDING A MAGNA CARTA FOR SCIENTISTS, ENGINEERS, 
RESEARCHERS AND OTHER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY PERSONNEL IN 
THE GOVERNMENT”
Explanatory Note
The Republic Act No. 8439 otherwise known as the “Magna C arta for 
Scientists, Engineers, Researchers, and other Science and Technology (S8bT) 
personnel in the governm ent” w as enacted last December 1997 in recognition 
of Science and Technology as an essential elem ent in the attainm ent of the 
country’s progress and development.
In recognition of the role th a t scientists, engineers, researchers and other 
workers play for inclusive and sustainable growth, and to further empower 
them , this legislative m easure proposes the following:
a. To remove set lim its on additional salary or honoraria for S 85 T 
personnel; and
b. To ease the process of accessing the benefits of S 85 T personnel in 
governm ent entities other th an  the 
D epartm ent of Science and 
Technology (DOST) by allowing their respective heads of agency to 
facilitate the approval.
In view of the foregoing, early passage of this bill is requested.
Senator
ll
|Si?| 
, ^ 1 - n i i t . -
ri,; 
*0i'fir» of 
[1 ri ir
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E  
S. B. No.
*16 JUL 21 
AH :09 
A
i< L f ' i ' i r v  
\ \ y :rf
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT
REGULATING POLES, POLE ATTACHMENTS 
AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This bill is anchored on the State's recognition of the vital role of communication 
and information in nation building.1
As a State policy, it is but incumbent upon Congress to define and seek a just and 
equitable legal framework on how to regulate the use of utility poles, related support 
structures and rights of way for the transmission of TV or telecommunications signals, 
as well as the rates, terms and conditions for pole attachments, which can be done 
through the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC).
It is envisioned that this proposed measure shall provide the consuming public 
with wider, and more affordable and improved access to a variety of communication 
and information services without any constitutional impediment on property and other 
related rights.
The cable television and telecommunications industries have been for several 
decades employing cables and related transmission equipment to reach the consuming 
public, thus necessitating utility poles, related support structures and rights of way to 
facilitate signal distribution. 
Unfortunately, these require significant financial 
investments which only a few can afford, such as pole-owning power utilities which in 
turn pass on the costs to the consuming public. Concomitantly, formulas and concepts 
have to be proposed as an institutionalized mechanism to address the issue at hand. 
Moreover, a similar proposal. House Bill No. 3730, is already pending in the House of 
Representatives.
Given the foregoing, this bill is respectfully submitted for immediate deliberation 
and passage.
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
Section 24, Article II, Constitution.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES ) 
First Regular Session 
)
o l  till 
• -f 1
.
•16
19
I'? :?7
SENATE
s. No. 
523
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
TO PROMOTE DONATIONS, IN GOOD FAITH, OF MEDICINES, FOOD 
PRODUCTS OR SUPPLIES BY ESTABLISHMENTS AND OTHER ENTITIES, 
INCLUDING INDIVIDUALS, BY EXEMPTING THEM FROM ANY FORM OF 
LIABILITY ARISING THEREFROM
EXPLANATORY NOTE
It has been a nonnal practice in the food industry to be strict in the disposal of their excess 
productions. In the fast food chain, the allowable shelf life of their food merchandise before 
the same is thrown in the garbage bag, averages between ten (10) to fifteen (15) minutes. This 
is in spite of the very fact that it can still last and be safe for human consumption in the 
following day. Shelf life of food sold in the fast food only guarantees the peak level of its 
freshness while the food is actually far from spoilage.
However, due to fear of causing undue injury or harm to others and consequently facing legal 
actions due to food poisoning and other related health hazards, it has become a norm in the 
industry to throwaway excess food products instead of giving it away even for their own 
employees to take home. Considering that there are thousands of restaurants, fast food chains, 
bakeries, markets, hotels and similar establishments all over the country who are constantly 
disposing of their daily excesses, it can be accurately said that we are practically throwing 
away tons of food enough to feed millions of people suffering from and dying of starvation.
Seventy percent (70%) of the country's population is under the poverty level. This alone 
indicates that millions of Filipinos are miserably scrounging for food anywhere just to 
survive. Consequently, this state of starvation and undernourishment makes the populace 
unhealthy; thus, the government needs all the support it can get to protect its citizenry from 
the devastating effect of disease caused by malnourishment.
The same is true with pharmaceutical products. Expiration date stamped on medicines is 
usually over-stated and inaccurate. It has been claimed by most medical practitioners that the 
same still has three (3) months grace period before the medical product can be considered 
ineffective, and yet drug stores already dispose of these expired products even before the said 
grace period.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session
S E N A T E
SB.  
167
BILLS &
Introduced by Senator Poe
AN ACT
ESTABLISHING A CREDIT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM FOR 
OVERSEAS FILIPINO WORKERS
Explanatory Note
More than being referred to as modern-day heroes, the Overseas Filipino Workers 
(OFWs) are considered as a vital partner of Philippine development. Aeeording to 
Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Amando Tetangeo, personal remittances by 
OFWs grew by 3.2% year-on-year in January 2016 to reach $2.2 Billion.1 Furthermore, 
the BSP reported that cash remittances from OFWs reached $16.21 Billion (Php764 
Billion) from January to August in 2015.2
According to the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA), there 
were a total of 1,832,668 OFWs in 2014 -  1,430,842 land-based and 401,826 sea-based.3 
Four out of five OFWs ehoose to stay within the Asian eontinent, with the Middle East 
serving as top destination (44%) followed by Singapore and Hong Kong. The largest 
segment of OFWs, 32.7%, comprise of laborers and unskilled workers, with household 
serviee workers topping the list of occupations. The seeond largest group of OFWs are in 
the nursing profession4.
In recognition of the valuable eontributions of OFWs, this bill is submitted. It 
creates a credit assistance program for our modern day heroes. Under this bill, a 
prospective OFW who has a valid contract as certified by the Philippine Overseas 
Employment Administration (POEA) may avail of a fifty thousand peso loan from the 
Overseas Worker Welfaie Administration (OWWA) to defray the living expenses of his 
family during the first few months of his absence as well as other expenses ineurred 
during his pre-employment.
In view of the foregoing, the approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
1 http://www.rappler.eom/business/economy-watch/l 25934-ofw-remittances-january-2016
2 http://www.rappler.eom/newsbreak/iq/l 14549-overseas-fllipino-workers-facts-figures
3 Ibid.
4 www.positivelyfilipino.com, latest (2013)
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E  
S.B.No. 118
INDEX
Introduced by Senator Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel HI
AN ACT AMENDING ARTICLE 365 OF ACT NO. 3815, AS 
AMENDED, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE REVISED PENAL
CODE
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Article II, Section 5 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution provides 
that the maintenance of peace and order, the protection of life, liberty, 
and property, and the promotion of the general welfare are essential for 
the enjoyment by all the people of the blessings of democracy.
One of the purposes of criminal laws is the protection of members 
of society from potential wrongdoers. These laws are directed against 
acts or omissions which society does not approve of and therefore serve 
as deterrents against incidents that may claim lives or cause damage to 
property.
We may have heard of the tragedies like that which befell seven 
students of Bulacan State University during a field trip; the Kentex fire 
in Valenzuela City; the sinking of M/B Kim Nirvana in Ormoc; the 
durian and mangosteen candy poisonings in Surigao del Sur, Surigao del 
Norte, and Agusan del Sur; the Ceres buses collision in Magalona, 
Negros Occidental; the Barney bus which lost control and fell off a 
ravine in the provice of Quezon; the Valisno bus accident on Quirino 
Highway; the two people who were killed when a six-wheeler truck that 
was hit by a 22-wheeler truck rammed into their car while in Ortigas, 
Pasig City; and the recent one, the 38-year-old husband and father who 
was hit by a speeding sports utility vehicle while he was standing in an 
island for pedestrians with his bike in tow along Diosdado Macapagal 
Boulevard, Paranaque City. These tragedies were caused by people who 
recklessly disregarded standards of care which our laws have imposed.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s. No. 
816
•16 
M- 21 
P 2 '32
lirrs i 
'^Y:
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto
AN ACT
PROVIDING FREE WI-FI INTERNET ACCESS IN PUBLIC BUILDINGS, TRANSPORT 
TERMINALS AND PARKS, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
Explanatory Note
The National Capital Region (NCR) has been ranked the 2nd best outsourcing destination in the 
world after Bangalore, India.1 The Infomiation Technology-Business Process Outsourcing (IT-BPO) 
sector remains vibrant and progressive, signaling the importance of the Internet in the Philippine capital 
and the economy.
However, wireless internet connection is difficult to locate and acquire. In the May 2015 Ookla 
Household Speed Index test, the Philippines' Internet Speed of 3.64 Mbps ranks 176th out of the 202 
countries included, way below the global average of 23.3 Mbps, and 2nd to the lowest in Asia, next to 
Afghanistan.2 This is a clear reflection of the low priority given to broadband internet infrastructure in 
the country.
Despite having a Philippine Digital Strategy (PDS) 2011-2016, the establislmient of a broadband 
internet infrastructure policy for the Philippines, which could mean internet for all, seems to have been 
pushed back with regard to importance.
In line with the goal of the PDS to establish a Universal Aceess and Service Fund (UASF), a 
financing instrument that can be sourced from the Spectrum User Fees (SUF) of the National 
Telecommunications Commission (NTC), this bill proposes that the sums necessary to implement the 
broadband infrastructure shall be automatically appropriated out of the SUF of NTC. The SUF accounts 
for a significant amount of the agency's revenue and reverts to the National Treasury.
This bill recognizes the vital role of communication and infomiation in national development and 
thus, provides for free public wireless internet access in public buildings, parks, and national roads.
Similar to the relevance of roads and bridges in stimulating economic activity and in fueling the 
Philippine economy, so too is the effect of a broadband infrastructure. Connectivity to the internet will 
enhance business growth opportunities and will assure citizens ease of sourcing timely infomiation at the 
click of a button.
For the Philippines to further establish itself as an emerging economy, a public broadband internet 
infrastmcture must be in place. Providing free internet access to public buildings and facilities will also 
ensure that our growing labor force will be updated with employment opportunities. Free wireless
1 Source: Tholons Top 100 Outsourcing Destination 2016
2 May 2015 Ookla Household Speed Index
■SS;..'
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
,Ti;;- 
a f 
pf r 
I t  I
’ 16 
AliG -1  
AH :22
SENATE
s. No. 
921
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto
AN ACT
EXEMPTING BOOKS, NEWSPAPERS, MAGAZINES, JOURNALS, REVIEWS, 
BULLETINS AND OTHER EDUCATIONAL OR LEARNING MATERIALS MADE OR 
PUBLISHED IN DIGITAL OR ELECTRONIC FORMAT FROM VALUE-ADDED 
TAX, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SECTION 109 (1) OF THE NATIONAL 
INTERNAL REVENUE CODE OF 1997, AS AMENDED
Explanatory Note
Northrop Frye, a famous Canadian literary critic and theorist once said, “The most 
technologically efficient machine that man has ever invented is the book.”
Frye’s quote still holds true to this day. Books and other useful reading materials 
contribute to a person’s intellectual development and imagination.
However, not much has been introduced to the print books since it was first officially 
printed more than 500 years ago using Johannes Gutenberg’s movable type printing press, until 
40 years ago, when Michael Hart, founder of Project Gutenberg, started “digitizing” cultural 
works including books which later became known as e-books. E-books are basically books 
composed in or eonverted to digital format for display on a computer screen or handheld 
device.1
Recently, there have been dramatic changes in the world of consumer electronics with 
the introduction of the latest generation gadgets such as digital books, e-readers, smart phones 
and tablets. Thus, it would only be a matter of time before learning institutions in the country 
start to require their students to bring the latest electronic technology to class. Not only are they 
handy, eco-friendly and space-saving but also, these gadgets will make it easier for students to 
take down notes and at the same time download books and other useful reading materials from 
the Internet. Unfortunately, students might find it more expensive to download e-books than 
buying its printed format since the former is not VAT-exempt.
At present, our Tax Code under Section 109 (1) includes the sale, importation, printing 
or publication of books and any newspaper, magazine, review or bulletin as one of the 
exemptions from the coverage of the value-added tax (VAT). Exemption from VAT makes 
books more affordable and more accessible to the public most especially to the students and 
researchers. However, at the time the VAT Reform Act of 2005 was enacted, e-books and other 
digitally formatted reading and learning materials were not yet used prevalently and only a
1 Merriam-Webster
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
(S f f if t of t h e ^ 'T T p t a r y
•16 JUL 21 
A11 :05
S. B. No.
S E N A T E
761
HI
RY:
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT
REVITALIZING THE COCONUT INDUSTRY, APPROPRIATING FUNDS 
THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This bill is being filed as a counterpart measure of House Bill No. 1998 filed by 
Rep. Sharon Garin in the House of Representatives.
It is the policy of the State to recognize the essential role of coconut as a strategic, 
indigenous, replenishable and renewable source of livelihood for a great number of 
people.
The coconut industry, which covers 3.563 hectares or 26% of the total agricultural 
land in the country, is one of the biggest agricultural industries in the country. It 
produces an annual average of 15.2 billion coconuts, with over 24 million direct and 
indirect stakeholders in over 69 provinces in the country.
The Philippine Coconut Authority was created pursuant to Presidential Decree 
232 in 1973 to promote the accelerated development of the coconut industry and to 
provide policy directions for such purpose. Subsequent legislations were also enacted 
for the same purpose, the last being Presidential Decree 1468 in 1978. However, said 
laws were created to address the conditions of the coconut industry almost 4 decades 
ago, making the present charter of the Philippine Coconut Authority undeniably 
deficient.
Thus, this bill brings about the necessary transformations to the Philippine 
Coconut Authority both at the policy and operational levels, by legislating a Coconut 
Industry Development Act which will provide an up-to-date overall strategic guidance 
to the industry. To implement the policy and objectives of this measure, a non-stock, 
government corporate entity known as the Philippine Coconut Industry Development 
Authority (PHILCIDA) is created and established, headed by a 7-member Board of 
Directors with its Chairman as head and Chief Executive Officer of the Authority.
This measure equips the PHILCIDA with solid and multifaceted mandate, which 
focuses on developmental, governmental, regulatory, research and development, and 
corporate powers and functions. It also provides assistance to coconut farmers through 
marketing assistance and other extension services to boost the yield and expand the 
income of coconut farmers, as well as intermediation and arranging services for
-  1 
-
f- e w  
, >
C" I‘ |1'
<0lfltt of llie<?^i’tt i l.iry
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENAI!fiR
5.B. No. 
b o b
'16 JUL 20 P3:15
Kl ( r i v 
BY:
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT DECLARING THE NATIONAL INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY AS A NONWORKING 
HOLIDAY, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 10689, OTHERWISE KNOWN 
AS "AN ACT DECLARING AUGUST 9 AS NATIONAL INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY AND 
MANDATING THE MEANINGFUL OBSERVANCE THEREOF"
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Indigenous Peoples in the Philippines are an integral part of our nation. Their rich 
cultural heritage and tradition is something that we continue to protect and promote 
through the efforts of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples.
Unfortunately, the long history of Indigenous Peoples' contribution to the 
democracy we now enjoy is little known to the general public. Indigenous Peoples are often 
only recognized through media coverage that highlights the challenges they are now facing 
as a minority sector in our country. From the Igorots of the Cordillera to the Lumads in 
Mindanao, Indigenous groups have long been on the battleground to defend our land and 
protect our independence.
This bill seeks to amend Republic Act No. 10689 by declaring August 9th of every 
year as a special non-working holiday, known as National Indigenous Peoples Day, to honor 
Indigenous Peoples in the Philippines. A special non-working holiday dedicated to 
Indigenous Peoples will serve to elevate the importance that is given to them and will serve 
as a yearly opportunity to celebrate their past and continued participation in society.
We must recognize Indigenous Peoples' valuable role and importance, and uphold 
their dignity to continue our journey toward building an inclusive society. Let's take a day 
each year to celebrate the rich history and culture of our Indigenous Peoples!
In view of the foregoing, the passing of this bill is earnestly sought.
Senator P a e l^ e n ig n o  "B art/' A. Aquino IV
SEVENTEEN CONGRESS OF THE) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES ) 
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E
29
S. B. No.
JUN 3 0 ?016'
t i m e :
b y :__
s. BILLS
Introduced by Senator GREGORIO B. HONASAN II
AN ACT
CREATING 
THE 
AGRARIAN 
REFORM 
COMMISSION 
TO 
INVESTIGATE 
CIRCUMVENTIONS AND VIOLATIONS OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 6657, OTHERWISE 
KNOWN AS THE “COMPREHENSIVE AGRARIAN REFORM LAW OF 1988”, AS 
AMENDED, REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9700, AND OTHER AGRARIAN REFORM LAWS, 
AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR.
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The 1987 Constitution mandates that “The State shall, by law, undertake an agrarian reform 
program founded on the right of farmers and regular farmworkers who are landless, to own 
directly or collectively the lands they till or, in the case of other farmworkers, to receive a just 
share of the fruits thereof To this end, the State shall encourage and undertake the just 
distribution of all agricultural lands, subject to such priorities and reasonable retention limits as 
the Congress may prescribe, taking into account ecological, developmental, or equity 
considerations, and subject to the payment of just compensation.”
From the implementation of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reforni Program (CARP), studies have 
shown that “between 1998 and 2011, there is a greater increase in average per capita income 
(12.3%) and a deeper reduction in poverty incidence (21%) among CARP households as 
compared to land-owning non-CARP households and the general population.”1 It has further 
been reported that according to fonner National Economic and Development Authority Secretary 
Cielito Habito, 81% of the farmers in Agrarian Refonn Communities say their quality of lives 
improved with CARP.
The original target of CARP for compulsory acquisition (CA) was 1.5 million hectares. After 25 
years, however, the CA accomplishment stood only at 325,720 hectares. The Department of 
Agrarian Reform has further estimated that 80% of collective certificates of land ownership 
award (CLOA) are not real cooperatives. Individual CLOAs covering around 800,000 hectares 
have yet to be issued. Moreover, about 600,000 hectares of long-tenn leaseback agreements with 
terms as long as 25 years and low lease rates are suspected as means to circumvent the CARP. 
Leaseback is only supposed to be a short term transition arrangement until the beneficiaries 
develop the capacity to be owner-cultivators.2
In view of the foregoing and as a social justice measure in pursuit of the just distribution of all 
agricultural lands as mandated by the Constitution, this bill seeks to establish the Agrarian 
Reform Commission to investigate circumventions and violations of the CARP. 
With an 
estimated 53% of Filipinos in rural areas engaged in agriculture3, uplifting their lives by securing
1 Monsod &Piza, Per SE, http://www.econ.upd.edu.ph, 29 March 2014
2 Monsod, Christian, Committee on Agrarian Reforni, House of Representatives, 06 Aug. 2014
2 Tadeo, Jaime, Committee on Agrarian Reform, House of Representatives, 06 Aug. 2014
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
]
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
F irst R egular Session
1
S. No.
SENATE
198
X fi TIME:
BILLS
In tro d u ced  by SEN. SHERWIN T. GATCHALIAN
AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR FULL TUITION SUBSIDY IN STATE UNIVERSITIES AND 
COLLEGES, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFORE
EXPLANATORY NOTE
In the 1987 Constitution, the sovereign people have audaciously 
proclaimed "the right of all citizens to quality education at all levels1 
m andating the State to "take appropriate steps to m ake such education 
accessible to all2." In line with the State policy of accessible public education, 
basic and secondary education are m ade available free-of-cost to every 
Filipino child through the public education system. Thus, every Filipino is 
guaranteed the right to education up to the high school level.
Tertiary education, however, is a completely different story altogether. 
Glaring inequity in access to higher education continues to impede the 
Filipino's right to education at this pivotal level. In fact, according to the 2013 
Annual Poverty and Indicator Survey (APIS), half of college-age youngsters 
were unable to pursue higher education due to financial constraints or the 
need to work and earn for the family. The financial difficulties of m any families
1 Art. XIV, Sec. 1, 1987 Constitution. (Em phasis added)
2 Ibid.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
F irs t R eg u lar Session
■7* '
1
SENATE
S.B. No. 996
HiK'-
ruu) i1
f 
I f ?t.|f
16 '\UG--8 PI :40
In tro d u ced  by Sen. WIN GATCHALIAN
AN ACT
INSTITUTING 
INCLUSIVE 
EDUCATION 
AND 
ESTABLISHING 
SPECIAL
j
EDUCATION CENTERS FOR CHILDREN AND YOUTH 'i)^ITH SPECIAL NEEDS IN 
ALL PUBLIC SCHOOLS DIVISIONS, PROVIDING FOR Slj'ANDARDS AND 
GUIDELINES, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR 
|
I 
j
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
!
Estim ates from the D epartm ent of Education indicate th at there are 
approximately 5.5 million Filipino children with special education needs. 
This is 
one out of every eight Filipino children who are often unable toj adapt to regular 
schools. Physical (e.g. deafness, blindness, orthopedic im pairm ent), cognitive (e.g. 
autism , intellectual handicaps), psychological (e.g. anx ety disorders, attention-
i
deficit /  hyperactivity disorder), an d /o r com m unication e.g. speech im pairm ents, 
speech-based developmental disorders) disabilities ji event them  from fully 
participating in regular schools. Moreover, the regular schools, w hether public or
I
private, are often incapable of providing these children wi. h the care, attention, and 
guidance th at they require for the development of thf;i. physical, cognitive, and 
social skills.
In order to provide services to as m any Filipino ct ildren wjith special needs, 
the government needs to build upon the existing infr citructure of its national 
public school system. This could be done by establ shing Special Education 
Centers (SPED Centers) in all public schools divisior 
nationwide. The SPED
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session
)
SENATE
S.B. No. 
1 3 5
■ILLS ft Moex
Introduced by Senator SONNY ANGARA
AN ACT
UPGRADING THE MINIMUM SALARY GRADE LEVEL OF TEACHERS FROM SALARY
GRADE 11 TO 19
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Public school teachers are among the most underpaid workers, given their workload and 
role in the society. Despite the fact that they are heralded as molders of our children’s future 
and second parents to our children, public school teachers receive a basic salary that does not 
equate to their contribution. Our teachers are considered to be the heart of the educational 
system. Hence, the government needs to give priority to their welfare and interests.
The low salaries received by our public school teachers have been a major disincentive 
for them to improve their skills in teaching and pursue further education and training. More so, 
our public schools have failed to attract the best and the brightest graduates from the top 
colleges and universities because of low salary levels, preventing our public education system 
from benefiting from the knowledge and expertise of outstanding teachers. Especially with the 
recent implementation of the K-12 law, having inspired and capable teachers is probably one of 
the best investments our government could make.
In this regard, this bill seeks to raise the minimum salary grade level of teachers from the 
current Salary Grade 11 to 19. With this increase in salaries, more qualified and competent 
educators will be attracted to teach in public schools. Definitely, this will greatly help in 
motivating our teachers to strive for excellence in their field and thus, improve the quality of 
education in the public school system.
For the abovementioned reasons, approval of this bill is earnestly urged.
NGARA
SONN
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
.f’t! I :• V  „ X'
K I » 
\  .«•
»/
’r' 
fc o f  t h  r 
f ; 
■ y
M, 6  
A U G - 1  
P I  S O
SENATE
S.B. No. 954
V •
Introduced by Senator SONNY ANGARA
AN ACT
AMENDING SECTION 6 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 1379, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE 
FORFEITURE LAW, TO PROVIDE A FIXED PERCENTAGE OF THE VALUE OF FORFEITED 
PROPERTIES IN CORRUPTION CASES AS ADDITIONAL FUNDING FOR THE OFFICE OF 
THE OMBUDSMAN AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Thirty years ago, Hong Kong was considered as one of the most corrupt countries in 
Asia. It is now perceived as among the least corrupt countries in Asia. World Bank studies 
conclude that the most important factor in the Hong Kong experience was the establishment of 
the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) in 1974. In comparison to the budget 
allocated to ICAC, the budget of the Office of the Ombudsman and other support anti-graft 
agencies pales.
The Office of the Ombudsman armed with a constitutional mandate as the protector of 
the people is the country’s foremost anti-graft agency. Since 2013, it has received an average of 
more than 10,000 complaints against erring government officials with a total case workload of 
more than 14,000 cases as of end of 2015. However, the Office of the Ombudsman is hindered 
to fulfill its mandate of combating corruption due to funding and resource limitations. 
Furthermore, with the disposition of cases going at a snail's pace, corruption continues to go 
unhampered leading to massive losses in government revenue which remain unaccounted for.
This bill intends to aid the Office of the Ombudsman in the fulfillment of its mandate by 
augmenting the financial resources of the Ombudsman. It seeks to provide more funding to the 
Ombudsman by giving it a share in any property forfeited in favor of the State under Republic 
Act No. 1379, otherwise known as the Forfeiture Law. This bill also seeks to augment the lack of 
personnel of the Ombudsman. Once passed into law, this bills also aims to ensure additional 
funding to the Ombudsman and therefore eliminate the need to reallocate funding from a 
stretched national budget.
It will provide a mechanism wherein thirty percent (30%) of the value of forfeited assets 
shall be used as funding for the Ombudsman that will assist the continued progress of cases. 
The percentage method will also ensure that the additional funding to the Ombudsman shall not 
lead to a loss for the government. The earmarking of a fixed percentage of the value of the 
forfeited properties in corruption cases will strengthen the Office of the Ombudsman especially 
so in their drive to combat corruption more efficiently and effectively. Particularly, the additional 
funds can help to further capacitate its lawyers especially on investigation activities.
The delivery of justice to our people, especially when the hard-earned money they pay 
for taxes is being misused by unscrupulous officials, can only be achieved when we arm the 
appropriate government agencies with the resources for this.
In view of the foregoing, approval of this bill is earnestly soug
SONNY ANGARA
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
)
V 1'*' r* r:/ 
.
’16 JUL 19 P2fl5
SENATE
s. No. 
505
'.r B V :
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillancs IV
AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR THE MODERNIZATION OF FIRE PROTECTION AND FOR 
OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The increased economic activity in the country has set aside safety standards and prevention 
measures that will prevent, mitigate, lessen industrial and residential accidents caused by fire.
Republic Act No. 6975 mandates the Bureau of Fire Protection to ensure public safety 
through the prevention and suppression of all kinds of destructive fires, the enforcement of 
the fire code, and the investigation of all causes of fires, and if necessary, the filing of the 
proper complaints with the appropriate agencies. For operational and logistical efficiency, the 
Bureau of Fire Protection needs to implement a modernization program that will safeguard 
the populace from the hazards of destructive fires.
This measure calls for the establishment of fire stations and Emergency Medical Services 
(EMS) in all local government units. Through this legislation, fire trucks and similar 
equipment shall be punctual to effectively respond to fire alanus in both the financial districts 
and residential areas by making the capacity to navigate small roads and thoroughfares in 
densely populated urban centers. In addition, trauma units in public hospitals must be 
upgraded; and fire personnel as well as fire volunteers will be trained using state-of-the-art 
equipment for fire prevention and suppression.
In view of the foregoing, the immediate approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
ANTO
ILLANES
S e n a to r
of fhc,r’n,’ffP‘ 1 rII
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
F irst R eg u lar Session
'16 AUG-8 P 1 :38
'’’Y;
S.B. No.
SENATE
993
In tro d u ce d  by SEN. WIN GATCHALIAN
AN ACT
EXPANDING THE APPLICATION OF THE LOCAL DISASTER RISK 
REDUCTION AND MANAGEMENT FUND BY AMMENDING REPUBLIC ACT 
NO. 10121, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE PHILIPPINE DISASTER RISK 
REDUCTION AND MANAGEMENT ACT OF 20 1 0
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Article II, Section 25, of the 1987 Constitution provides that “The State 
shall ensure the autonomy of local governments". 
Section 2 of the Local 
Government 
Code 
also 
states 
that 
“the 
State 
shall 
provide 
for 
a more 
responsive and accountable local government structure instituted through a 
system of decentralization whereby local government units shall be given more 
powers, authority, responsibilities, and resources”.
RA 10121 or the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management 
Act 
has 
placed 
the 
local 
government 
units 
in 
the 
frontline 
of disaster 
preparedness, response and rehabilitation. It transformed the calamity funds of 
the LGUs into the Local 
Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund. 
Under the present law, the LDRRMF may now be utilized by the LGUs to fund 
projects and programs that enhance disaster prepareclness and mitigate, the 
effects of calamities.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
•S».W
•16 JUL20 P4--42
SENAT^f)R
S.B. No.
R K ' i  
■
' Y ; ___
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT AMENDING REPUBLIC ACT NO. 10591, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE 
COMPREHENSIVE FIREARMS AND AMMUNITION REGULATION ACT, AND 
PROVIDING PENALTIES FOR VIOLATION THEREOF
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Recently, outbound passengers have been apprehended at the Ninoy Aquino 
International Airport (NAIA) and have fallen victim to the tanim-bala (planting 
bullets) scam.
A 65-year old woman on her way to Singapore to watch her nephew play 
soccer1 a 56-year old domestic helper bound for Hong Kong to go back to work2, and 
an 18-year old choir member on her way to South Korea for a competition3 were 
some of the victims of the scandal.
Activities that jeopardize the safety and security of the public are clearly 
unacceptable. We must build a secure, orderly, and just nation for our tourists, 
foreign and local investors, and, most importantly, our own citizens.
Clearly, a scam that is unsupportive of our efforts to raise government 
service standards for the Filipino people should be stopped immediately. As 
investigations have been ordered, it is also imperative to look at policy proposals 
and interventions that fully address the issue.
Yap, OJ, Andrade, Jeanette, 2 November 2015. Philippine Daily Inquirer. "Ouster of Airport Execs in 'Tanim-Bala' Pressed. 
Accessed last 3 November 2015 via IUlp'llncwsinlo,inguircr.ncll730l6()lou.slcr-or-airoorl c.\cc.s-in tiinim-biila-prc.sscd.
Dizon, Nikko. 1 November 2015. Philippine Daily Inquirer 
"Aquino Orders Probe of TanimBala'Racket Amid Outcry. 
Accessed last 3 November 2015 via http://newsinfo.inquirer.net1736010!aquino-orders probe-of-tanim-bala-racket- 
amid-
outcrv#ixzz3qNtNBRVS
3
CNN Philippines. 3 November 2015. "Choir Conductor Narrates 'Tanim Bala' Incident. Accessed last 3 November 
2015 via http://cnnphilippines.com/videos/2015/11/02/Choir-conductor-narrates-tanim-bala-incident html.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Second Regular Session
S E N A T E
SB.  
870
'Sffu* of HlSl> r r r f i i i  ji
•16 JUL26 A 8 56 
Kl.( 
’ BY: 
>Q_
Introduced by Senator Poe
AN ACT
STRENGTHENING THE CODE OF CONDUCT AND ETHICAL STANDARDS FOR
PUBLIC SERVANTS
Explanatory Nofp
Article XI, Section 1 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution states that “[p]ublic 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.” This constitutional provision is the underlying principle in democratic 
governments in that public officials must uphold public interest over personal interest.
service.
It is the declared policy of the State to promote a high standard of ethics in public
Corruption in all its forms—destroys democratic governments and affects citizens, 
mostly the poor who should have been benefitting from the programs of their governments.5 
In the Philippines, various anti-corruption drives have been initiated by several government
agencies and even non-government organizations to remind public officials about the ill 
perils of corruption.
Republic Act No. 6713 or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public 
Officials and Employees is a remarkable law, forbidding corruption in all forms and 
providing ethical standards by which every public official and employee must comply. RA