bettergovph/raw-philippine-data huggingface dataset:
¥ SENATE
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE) ¢. OPRGR OF THE SECAETARY
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES. )
)

First Regular Session

10 AL 12 Pi 40

SENATE
s.p_1207 .

Introduced by Senator Manny Villar

EXPLANATORY NOTE

People all over the world have their own horror stories to tell in the matter of
credit card hidden charges and the never-ending payments they seem to be making
which have more often than not, exceeded the principal amount that they have obtained
as a loan in the first place.

{f you don’t know how to protect yourself, you could end up paying hand over fist
for fees hidden in your bills.

The consumer public has to be protected by the State, especially in these times
of financial crisis, recession and trouble that has cast the world in its dark spell. Even
though vigilance is the most effective weapon, the State still needs to do what it can to
protect the citizenry.

In the US alone, Consumer Reports estimates that consumers collectively pay at
least $216 billion in financial fees each year. That works out to about $750 a person in
miscellaneous fees. Your cell phone bill and your Internet service provider may slap on
some hidden fees, but the biggest culprit is credit cards. Americans pay an estimated
$31 billion a year in credit-card fees. .

In most countries, by law, hidden fees are not allowed to be imposed on the
customers, they must be reflected clearly in every billing statement received by the
individual to ensure that payments in excess of what is actually due him is avoided, The
same vigilance and protection must be afforded to the customers and the citizenry.
Henceforth, the urgent passage of this legislation is earnestly sought.

MANNY VILLAR:


Pe

\ seats
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE - ) jy, OPER OF Tre SECRETARY
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES)
First Regular Session )
10 ak 12 Pi 40
SENATE

s51207 | Receveoey: fi.

o

Introduced by Senator Manny Villar

AN ACT
PROVIDING PROTECTION TO CREDIT CARD HOLDERS BY SETTING A CEILING
ON INTEREST RATES AND SURCHARGES AND PROHIBITING HIDDEN
PENALTIES OR COSTS IMPOSED BY BANKS AND SIMILAR FINANCIAL
INSTITUTIONS ON PURCHASES AND CASH ADVANCES MADE THROUGH
CREDIT FACILITY

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in
Congress assembled:

Section 1. Interest rates imposed by credit card companies on purchases and
cash advances made through such facility shall in no case be higher than 1% per month
or 12% per annum, without compounding.

Section 2. Surcharges or penalties shall likewise be limited to a ceiling of 1% per
month without compounding.

Section 3. No other costs shall be imposed other than the foregoing except for
reasonable attorney's fees and expenses of collection completely disclosed to,
sufficiently understood by and voluntarily agreed with by an applicant for credit card
facility

Section 4. The pertinent provisions of the Truth in Lending Act shall apply
suppletorily insofar as relevant and complementary to the provisions of this Act

Section 5. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days following its publication in a
newspaper of general circulation.

Approved,
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 1260 
SH;c'\n 
OFfiCE 01' .~! 
S;:CJ{[TAflY 
10 
JUL 12 P 3 :29 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. MANNY VILLAR 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Constitution provides that, to wit: 
Section 14. (2) In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall be presumed 
innocent until the contrary is proved, x x x 
Presentation to the public or media of any person suspected of committing 
a crime prior to the filing of formal charges against him violates the constitutional 
, 
right of such person to be presumed innocent. It unduly subjects the suspect to 
public ridicule and scorn without due process. 
To address the problem, this bill proposes that any person who shall 
violate the said constitutional right shall be held criminally and civilly liable. 
In view of the foregoing, the approval of this bill is earnestly requested. 
MANNYV LAR 
1 


FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No.12 6 0 
. " 
! . 
" 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. MANNY VILLAR 
AN ACT 
PROHIBITING THE PRESENTATION TO THE PUBLIC OR MEDIA OF 
SUSPECTS PRIOR TO THE FILING OF FORMAL CHARGES AGAINST THEM 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the 
Philippines in Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Prohibited Act. It shall be unlawful for any person to present 
to the public or media any suspect under investigation by a government agency 
or office prior to the filing of formal charges against him or her. 
SECTION 2. Exception. The presentation to the public or media may be 
allowed upon a written consent of the suspect given with the assistance of 
counsel preferably of his/her own choice. 
SECTION 3. Penalty. Any person found guilty of violating the provisions of 
this Act shall be sentenced to one (1) to five (5) years imprisonment and a fine of 
not less than P20,OOO.OO. 
SECTION 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. 
SECTION 5. Repealing Clause. Any law, presidential decree or issuance, 
executive order, letter of instruction, administrative order, rule and regulation 
2 


• 
contrary to or inconsistent with the provision of this Act is hereby repealed, 
modified or amended accordingly. 
SECTION 6. Effectivity Cluase. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days 
after its publication in at least two newspaper of general circulation. 
Approved, 
3
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
. SENi1f77 
S.No. ___ _ 
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago 
.J 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Civil Code, Article 737, states "the donor's capacity shall be detennined as of the 
time of the making of the donation." 
The term "making must be interpreted to mean 
"perfection" of the donation, otherwise if "making" means "giving," Article 737 would in some 
cases be inconsistent with Article 734 which states that "the donation is perfected from the 
moment the donor knows of the acceptance by the donee." 
An example of the perceived inconsistency is: "an insane donor donates on January l. 
Donee accepts on January 5. Donor regains sanity on January 7. Donor knows of donee's 
acceptance on January 8, at a time when he was sane (capacitated). In this case, if we interpret 
"making" as "giving," the donation would be avoidable because of the donor's incapacity at the 
time he "gave" his property to the donee. On the other hand, if we consider "making" as 
"perfection," the donation would be valid because at the time of "making" (perfection), both 
parties had full capacity." 
To avoid this contradiction, the langnage of Article 737 must be changed to make it clear 
and consistent with other provisions of the Civil Code on Donations: 
~'-
4~.~~ ~¥:t'~ 
. MIRIAM DEF~SOR SA-NTIApO 
6\W 
, This bill was originally filed dnring the Thilieenth Congress, First Regular Session. 
1 


FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
10 
,JUt 22 f\ 9 :113 
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago 
I 
AN ACT 
2 
AMENDING REPUBLIC ACT 386, ALSO KNOWN AS THE CIVIL CODE, ARTICLE 737, 
3 
MAKING IT CONSISTENT WITH THE OTHER PROVISIONS ON DONATIONS 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
4 
SECTION 1. Republic Act No. 386, also known as the Civil Code, Article 737, is hereby 
5 
amended to read as follows: 
6 
"Article 737. [The donor's capacity shall be determined as of the time of the 
7 
making ofthe donation] AT THE TIME THE DONATION IS PERFECTED, 
8 
BOTH OF THE DONOR AND THE DONEE MUST BE CAPACITATED." 
9 
SECTION 2. Repealing Clause. - Any law, presidential decree or issuance, executive 
10 
order, letter of instruction, administrative order, rule or regulation contrary to or inconsistent 
II 
with the provisions of this Act is hereby repealed, modified or amended accordingly. 
12 
SECTION 3. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its 
13 
publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved, 
I
7 ate win

FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THEREPUBLIC — ) GRRCE OF) ORE!
OF THE PHILIPPINES

First Regular Session )

TO ME Qt AM OS
SENATE,

s.No.__1718

CERES Ee
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago /

EXPLANATORY NOTE

Prostate cancer is now one of the leading causes of death among Filipino males. Statistics
show that about 25% of men afflicted with prostate cancer die of the disease. 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
the men over 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 than when done in its advanced stages.

‘This bill seeks to establish a program that will educate the public and increase awareness

‘on prostate cancer.”

wali Akan dalg

* This bill was originally filed during the Thirteenth Congress, First Regular Session.


FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC)
)

OF THE PHILIPPINES:
First Regular Session )
; SENAT,
so L218
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago J
AN ACT

ESTABLISHING A PROGRAM FOR PUBLIC EDUCATION ON PROSTATE CANCER
Be it enacted by the Senate and the 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.”

SECTION 2. Establishment of Program for Public Education on Prostate Cancer. ~
‘The Director shall carry out a program on prostate cancer. Through that program, he shall
conduct or support activities to—

(A) Educate males who are forty (40) years of age or older on the need to periodically
undergo 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) Educate males on the availability and appropriateness of procedures for detecting
cancer in its early stages, including the procedure known as prostate ultrasound.

For purposes of this Act, the term “director” means the Director of the Non-

Communicable Disease Department of Health.

SECTION 3. Separability Clause. - If any provision or patt hereof is held invalid or
unconstitutional, the remainder of the law or the provision not otherwise affected shall remain

valid and subsisting.


SECTION 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 provision of this Act is hereby repealed, modified or amended accordingly.

SECTION 5. Effectivity Clause. ~ This Act shall take effect fifteen days (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 
Senate Bill No.12 81 
"" . 
INTROOUCI;O BY SEN. MANNY VILLAR 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The children are the State's most precious and valuable resource, and 
various public and private initiatives seek to decrease the number of 
preventable injuries and fatalities incurred by children. 
Unintentional injury is the number one killer of children age 14 and 
under, and each year nearly 6,040 children are killed and at least 120,000 are 
permanently disabled by preventable injuries. 
Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for children 
between the ages of four and 14, with more than 1,700 children under the age 
of 15 having died in motor vehicle crashes in 2000. 
Annually, thousands of children under the age of 15 drown and more 
are treated in the hospital for water-related injuries. 
The Internet has opened a world of information and educational 
resources, yet may be a dangerous place where pedophiles and con artists 
have access to our children, necessitating that parents monitor their children's 
use of the computer. Reports of child abductions and missing children seem to 
be on the rise. Research indicates that children are abused mostly by people 
they know and trust. 
It is only proper and fitti~g for the State to recognize all resources and 
avenues to protect our children from preventable harm. 


• 
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
' .. ,' 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No12 81 c 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. MANNY VILLAR 
AN ACT 
DESIGNATING DECEMBER OF EACH YEAR AS "CHILD PROTECTION 
MONTH" 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the 
Philippines in Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Title- This Act shall be known and cited as the "Child 
Protection Month". 
SECTION 2. The month of December is permanently designated as Child 
Protection Month" in the Philippines. 
SECTION 3. The Department of Social Welfare and Development shall 
urge all citizens to recognize "Child Protection Month" and shall hold programs 
and activities in observance of the event. 
SECTION 4. Implementing Rules and Regulations.- The DSWD shall 
promulgate the appropriate rules and regulations necessary for the effective 
implementation of this Act within sixty (60) days from its approval. 
SECTION 5. Repealing Clause.- Any law, presidential decree or issuance, 
executive order, letter of instruction, administrative order, rule or regulation 
contrary to or inconsistent with the provision of this Act is hereby repealed, 
modified or amended accordingly. 
SECTION 6. Effectivity Clause.- This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days 
after its publication in the Official Gazette or in at least two (2) newspapers of 
general circulation. 
Approved.
FIFTEENTB CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S.B.No. 1341 
Introduced by Senator Loren Legarda 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
I () U 13 i\ f) :{):i 
Barangay Security Development Officers (BSDO's) play an important role since 
they deliver a noteworthy service in maintaining peace and order in barangays. Their 
night patrols safeguard the community at the risk of exposing their lives to unlawful 
citizens lurking the community. It is quite unfortunate that a number of BSDO's have 
been assaulted, injured and! or killed in performing their duties as barangay guardians. 
In recognition of their remarkable contribution in the maintenance of peace and 
order in barangays, this bill seeks to grant hazard pay to all duly appointed BSDO's. It 
also seeks to grant incentives for their better performance and discharge of 
responsibilities. 
It is the intention of this bill to give what is long overdue our BSDO's. 
Approval of this bill is therefore earnestly sought. 
~ 
======-~-=--::~::;;::;;::;;;:::::::::::= 
LOREN LEGARDA 
Senator 


FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S.B. No. 1341 
Introduced by Senator Loren Legarda 
AN ACT 
i 0 ,lliL 13 II') :05 
GRANTING HAZARD PAY TO ALL DULY-APPOINTED BARANGAY SECURITY 
DEVELOPMENT OFFICERS DURING THEIR INCUMBENCY, APPROPRIATING 
FUNDS niEREFoR 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
assembled: 
SECTION 1. All duly-appointed members of the Barangay Security 
Development Officers (BSDO's) shall be granted a hazard pay during their incumbency, 
in the amount of Three Thousand Pesos (P3, 000.00) per month. 
SEC. 2. The amount necessary for the effective implementation of this Act shall 
be charged to the appropriations of the Department of Interior and Local Government 
(DILG) under the current General Appropriations Act. 
SEC. 3. Nothing in this Act shall be construed as to diminish, in any manner, any 
benefit granted by existing laws, rules and regulations, local ordinances and other 
issuances especially favorable to Barangay Tanod brigade members. 
SEC. 4. Within six (6) months from the approval of this Act, the DILG shall issue 
the necessary rules and regulations for the effective implementation of this Act. 
SEC. 5. All laws, decrees, executive orders, rules and regulations inconsistent 
with the provisions of this Act are hereby repealed or modified accordingly. 
SEC. 6. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its complete publication in 
the Official Gazette or in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation whichever 
comes earlier. 
Approved,
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
) 
) 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
S,No, 1504 
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
, , 
.... ; I nrr(.\fll 
'i D LIUL 19 
,~8 :35 
\/ 
The Civil Code, Article 867, paragraph 2, does not allow an absolute or temporary 
prohibition by the testator in the disposition of the estate "beyond the limit fixed in Article 863:' 
But no such period is provided by Article 863, Instead, it is Article 870 which provides the 
period limiting the prohibition on alienation to 20 years, 
This bill amends Article 867 so that it would correctly refer to Article 870. * 
• This bill was originally filed during the Thirteenth Congress, First Regular Session, 


FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
SEl'fJ\lli 
S.No. It>u4 
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago 
1 
AN ACT 
°10 
Jill 19 A8 :36 
\ 
2 
AMENDING REPUBLIC ACT NO. 386, ALSO KNOWN AS THE CIVIL CODE, ARTICLE 
3 
~7 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
assembled: 
4 
SECTION 1. The Civil Code, Article 867, is hereby amended as follows: 
5 
"Article 867. The following shall not take effect: 
6 
(1) Fideicommisary substitutions which are not made in an express 
7 
manner, either by giving them this name, or imposing upon the fiduciary the 
8 
absolute obligation to deliver the property to a second heir; 
9 
(2) Provisions which contains a perpetual prohibition to alienate and even 
lOa 
temporary one, beyond the limit fixed in article [863] 870; 
11 
(3) Those which impose upon the heir the charge of paying to various 
12 
persons successively, beyond the limit prescribed in article 863, a certain income 
13 
or penSIOn; 
14 
(4) Those which leave to a person the whole or part of the hereditary 
15 
property in order that he may apply or invest the same according to secret 
16 
instructions communicated to him by the testator." 
17 
SECTION 2. Separability Clause. - If any provision or part hereof, is held invalid or 
18 
unconstitutional, the remainder of the law or the provision not otherwise affected shall remain 
19 
valid and SUbsisting. 
I 


• 
I 
SECTION 3. Repealing Clause. - Any law, presidential decree or issuance, executive 
2 
order, letter of instruction, administrative order, rule or regulation contrary to, or inconsistent 
3 
with, the provision of this Act is hereby repealed, modified, or amended accordingly. 
4 
SECTION 4. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its 
5 
publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved, 
2
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 1291 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. MANNY VILLAR 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
,c' 
!1 
The State recognizes that gunfire poses serious risks to public safety and 
that mandatory reporting of gunshot wounds will enable police to take immediate 
steps to prevent further violence, injury or death. 
This bill seeks to require.the mandatory disclosure of information to police 
respecting persons being treated for gunshot wounds and providing for the 
imposition of penalty for violation thereof. 
1 


FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
S~nate Bill No. 1291-
l.';"" . 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. MANNY VILLAR 
AN ACT 
TO REQUIRE THE DISCLOSURE OF INFORMATION TO POLICE 
RESPECTING PERSONS BEING TREATED FOR GUNSHOT WOUNDS 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the 
Philippines in congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Definition. - In this Act, "facility" means-
(a) 
a hospital 
(b) 
an organization or institution that provides health care services 
(c) 
a clinic that provides health care services, or 
(c) 
a medical doctor's office. 
SECTION 2. Mandatory disclosure of gunshot wounds.- (a) Every facility 
that treats a person for a gunshot wound shall disclose to the police authorities 
the fact that a person is being treated for a gunshot wound, the person's name, if 
known, and the name and location of the facility. 
(b) Any facility which violates the provision of this Act shall be liable to a 
civil penalty of not les than Php20,OOO.OO for a first offense and Php50,OOO.OO for 
a second or subsequent offense. 
SECTION 3. Manner and Timing of Disclosure.- The disclosure must be 
made orally and as soon as. it is reasonably practicable to do so without 
interfering with the person's treatment or disrupting the regular activities of the 
facility. 
SECTION 4. Protection from liability.- No action or other proceeding for 
damages shall be instituted against a facility, a director, officer or employee of a 
facility or a health care practitioner for any act done in good faith in the execution 
or intended execution of a duty under this Act or for any alleged neglect or 
default in the execution in good faith of that duty. 
2 


# 
Section 5. Separability Clause. - If any provisions, or part hereof, is held 
invalid or unconstitutional, the remainder of the law or provision not otherwise 
affected shall remain valid and subsisting. 
Section 6. 
Repealing Clause. 
-
Any law, executive order, decree, 
issuance, ordinance, rule and regulation or any part thereof contrary or 
inconsistent with the provisions of this Act is also hereby repealed, modified or 
amended accordingly. 
Section 7. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days 
after its pUblication in at least two (2) national newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved. 
3
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC)
OF THE PHILIPPINES )

First Regular Session ) 10 we 22 AGT

no 4882 .
pecniven pe: i

Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago

EXPLANATORY NOTE

The Civil Code, Article 781, provides:

‘The inheritance of a person includes not only the property and the
transmissible rights and obligations existing at the time of his death but also those

which have accrued thereto since the opening of the succession.

The provision has no significance. Even without this provision, those fruits and
accessions of inherited properties which accrue after the death of the decedent will still belong to
the heirs who inherit the properties. ‘The acquisition of these fruits and accessions by the heirs is
no longer through succession, but as owners of the properties to which they accrue,

Article 781 should be repealed because it serves no purpose and adds confusion to the

law on succession.

ws DERENSOR SA1 ig?”

: doctor hecces i why

* ‘This bill was originally filed during the Thirteenth Congress, First Regular Session.


f SECRETARY

FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC)
OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session )

sno 4881

Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago

VG ML 22: AAT

AN ACT
REPEALING SECTION 781 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 386, ALSO KNOWN AS THE CIVIL,
CODE, ON THE GROUND OF SUPERFLUITY

Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines in
Congress assembled:

SECTION 1. The Civil Code, Article 781, is hereby repealed.

SECTION 2. Repealing Clause. - Any law, presidential decree or issuance, executive
order, letter of instruction, administrative order, rule or regulation contrary to or inconsistent

with the provision of this Act is hereby repealed, modified or amended accordingly.

SECTION 3. 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 
) 
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago 
\. j 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Sugar smuggling continues to be a lucrative underground business because of existing 
laws which provide a loophole for the reintroduction of confiscated smuggled sugar into the 
market. 
According to the National Federation of Sugarcane Planters, Inc., smuggled sugar 
which is confiscated by the Bureau of Customs is immediately classified by the Sugar 
Regulatory Administration as "D" or World Market Sugar so that it can be shipped out of the 
country. A public auction is then conducted by the Bureau of Customs. Since the confiscated 
sugar is classified as "D" sugar, it is also sold at "D" or world sugar prices which are just one-
third of domestic sugar prices. The Federation states that this is where sugar smugglers are able 
to reacquire their wares and sell it domestically where prices are four times of the world market. 
By eliminating this loophole, we would help curb the reportedly rampant smuggling in sugar. 
This is a senate counterpart bill to one filed in the House of Representatives by Rep. Jose 
Carlos Lacson (Neg. Occ., 3rd District). * 
Lw\.. 4h,v<N-, ~Y:r~ 
$//Y' MIRIAM DEFEJt.JSOR SA'tmA'(l 
• ThIS bill was originally filed in the Fourteenth Congress, Second Regular Session 


FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
SENf!s7 
S.No. ___ _ 
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago 
'.J 
I 
AN ACT 
2 
PROVIDING FOR THE DISPOSITION OF SMUGGLED SUGAR 
, 
3 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
4 
assembled: 
5 
SECTION I. Declaration of Policy. It is hereby declared a State policy that in no 
6 
instance and under no condition shall the sale or resale of confiscated smuggled sugar in the 
7 
custody of the Bureau of Customs be allowed. 
8 
SECTION 2. Mode of disposition. No other method of disposition of confiscated 
9 
smuggled sugar in the custody of the Bure!ju of Customs shall be allowed except dumping them 
10 
into the sea in the presence of witnesses consisting of representatives from the Sugar Regulatory 
11 
Administration, Sugar Industry, and other concerned parties. 
12 
SECTION 3. Repealing Clause. - All laws, decrees, orders, rules and regulations or parts 
13 
thereof inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are hereby repealed, amended or modified 
14 
accordingly. 
15 
SECTION 4. Separability Clause. - If, for any reason, any provision of this Act is 
16 
declared to be unconstitutional or invalid, the other sections or provisions hereof which are not 
17 
affected thereby shall continue to be in full force and effect. 
18 
SECTION 5. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect after fifteen (15) days 
19 
following its pUblication in the Official Gazette or in two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
20 
Appro~ed,
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Civil Code, Article 952, mentions a charge of a legacy or a devise upon an heir. The 
basis of this power to make a charge against the heir is the presumed continuation of the 
personality ofthe deceased. 
However, an heir is no longer the continuation ofthe personality of the deceased. An heir 
does not assume responsibility for the obligations of the decedent. As a rule, legacies or devises 
are a charge or burden upon the State itself, unless the testator expressly burdens a particular 
heir, legatee or devisee with their payment. 
This bill seeks to amend Article 952 to remove a misleading presumption.' 
• This bill was originally filed during the Thirteenth Congress. First Regular Session . 
• 


FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
SENAJA 
S.No. 1791 
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago 
1 
AN ACT 
2 
AMENDING REPUBLIC ACT NO. 386, ALSO KNOWN AS 
3 
THE CIVIL CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES, ARTICLE 952 ON LEGACIES AND DEVISES 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
assembled: 
4 
SECTION 1. The Civil Code, Article 952, is hereby amended, as follows: 
5 
"Article 952. The heir [, charged with the legacy or devise 1 or the executor 
6 
or administrator of the estate, must deliver the very thing bequeathed if he is 
7 
liable to do so and cannot discharge this obligation by paying its value. 
8 
"Legacies of money must be paid in cash, even though the heir or the 
9 
estate may not have any. 
10 
"The expenses necessary for the delivery of the thing bequeathed shall be 
11 
for the account of the heir or the estate, but without prejUdice to the legitime." 
12 
SECTION 2. Separability Clause. - If any provision, or part hereof, is held invalid or 
13 
unconstitutional, the remainder of the law or the provision not otherwise affected shall remain 
14 
valid and subsisting. 
15 
SECTION 3. Repealing Clause. - Presidential Decree No. 1602 is hereby amended and 
16 
any law, presidential decree or issuance, executive order, letter of instruction, administrative 
17 
order, rule or regulation contrary to, or inconsistent with, the provisions of this Act is hereby 
18 
repealed, modified or amended accordingly 
I 


1 
2 
SECTION 4. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shaH take effect fifteen (15) days after its 
3 
publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved, 
2
~, : 
' t 
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
) 
) 
, Of.F~Ce. -.11' 
,:'"' 
'~~t', J,E \ f" HY 
First Regular Session 
states: 
10 
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Constitution, Article 2, Section 16 provides: 
The State shall protect and advance the right of the people to a balanced 
and healthful ecology in accord with the rhythm and harmony of nature. 
This should be read in consonance with the Constitution, Article 13, Section 22 which 
The State shall establish and maintain an effective food and drug 
regulatory system and undertake appropriate health, manpower development, and 
research, responsive to the country's health needs and problems. 
Environmental and health risks remain largely unknown for the approximately 83,000 
chemicals used in consumer products. The toxics information clearinghouse established in this 
bill would require a full disclosure of chemicals used in consumer products. This clearinghouse 
is the first step in raising public awareness about the chemicals that people use on a daily basis 
since it would identify chemicals of concern. It will also aid in developing standards and 
guidelines related to these toxic chemicals. * 
• This bill was originally filed in the 14'" Congress. 


FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
10 . .ill21 
All :!2 
First Regular Session 
) 
SENtns 
S.No. ___ _ 
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago 
AN ACT 
1 
2 
CREATING A TOXIC WASTE INFORMATION CLEARINGHOUSE 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
assembled: 
3 
SECTION 1. Website. Substances hazardous to public health, safety or the euvironmeut 
4 
shall be posted on a website established and maintained by the Department of Enviromnent and 
5 
Natural Resources (DENR). The website shall provide chemical hazard traits and enviromnental 
6 
and toxicological end-point data. 
7 
SECTION 2. Consultation. The Department of Enviromnent and Natural Resources, in 
8 
consultation with the Department of Health, shall evaluate the hazard traits and enviromnental 
9 
and toxicological end-points and any other relevant data that are to be included in the 
10 
clearinghouse. 
11 
SECTION 3. Information sharing. The DENR shall collaborate with other govermnent 
12 
agencies, international organizations, and other States to identify available data related to hazard 
13 
traits and environmental and toxicological end-points and to facilitate the development of 
14 
national and international data sharing arrangements to be included in the clearinghouse. 
15 
SECTION 4. Repealing Clause. - All laws, decrees, orders, rules and regulatious or 
16 
parts thereof inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are hereby repealed, amended or 
17 
modified accordingly. 
1 


". 
I 
SECTION 5. Effectivity Claus~. - This Act shall take effect after fifteen (15) days 
2 
following its publication in the Official Gazette or in two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved, 
2
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 1293 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. MANNY VILLAR 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The drug menace constitutes one of the gravest problems confronting the 
country today. In fact, what makes this problem more dreadful and worrisome is 
that there are reports and information from responsible quarters which indicate 
that the drug lords and their syndicates are extending their operations and 
activities to the firms and factories in the country thereby spreading drug 
addiction among the workers. 
It has been observed in this regard that because of the various social, 
economic, and cultural factors and influences that they have to contend with in 
their day-to-day existence, many of the workers in the country tend to be an easy 
prey to the insidious ways and machinations of the drug pushers. It is therefore 
imperative that continuing measures must be instituted in the workplace to focus 
the attention of the workers on the evils of dangerous drugs. 
This bill mandates that the parties to a collective bargaining shall provide 
in their agreement an educational program on the adverse effects of dangerous 
drugs, including their legal, social, productivity and other economic implications. 
It is believed that with adequate knowledge and information on the 
dangerous drugs, the workers would be in a better position to cope with the 
aforementioned problem. 
The passage of this bill is earnestly recommended. 


" 
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No, 1293 
:.):.,,' ~ 
f'?,~ -~·Y:f fl. ~ 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. MANNY VILLAR 
AN ACT 
CONSTITUTING THE INCLUSION OF WORKERS EDUCATION ON THE 
ADVERSE EFFECTS OF DANGEROUS DRUGS AS A REQUIRED 
BARGAINING CLAUSE 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the 
Philippines in Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. There shall be incorporated after Article 252 or Presidential 
Decree No. 442, as amended, otherwise known as the "Labor Code of the 
Philippines", a new article which shall read as follows: 
"Art. 252-A. Workers Education on Oangerous Orugs: 
Required Bargaining Clause. -
The parties to a collective 
bargaining shall include in their agreement a clause providing for 
workers education on the adverse effects of dangerous dru~s 
including their legal, social, productivity and other economic 
implications. For this purpose, such parties may form a dangerous 
drugs committee." 
SECTION 2. All laws, rules and regulations or part or parts thereof 
inconsistent with this Act are hereby repealed, modifies, superseded or amended 
accordingly. 
SECTION 3. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication 
in the Official Gazette or in at least two (2) national newspapers of general 
circulation, whichever comes earlier. 
Approved,
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No. 1175 
, 
?,-. 
t 
"/0 
JUL 12 119 :30' 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. MANNY VILLAR 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Foodborne illness costs lives and money. Several people become sick 
and die after eating contaminat~d or mishandled food. Children, the elderly and 
people with weak immune systems are particularly vulnerable to foodborne 
illness. One of the several ways to prevent the transmission of food borne 
bacteria is by wearing gloves during food packaging and processing. 
In view of this, the attached bill makes it mandatory to any person who is 
in direct contact with food ingredients in the preparation of food products in a 
food establishment to wear gloves that are made of non-absorbent material. This 
bill also provides the punishment to be imposed on any food establishment found 
to have violated this law. 
The purpose of this bill is to safeguard public health and to provide 
consumers with food that is safe, unadulterated and hygienically prepared and 
presented. 
In view of the foregoing, the approval of this bill is earnestly 
recommended. 
MAN YV LAR 
1 


FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
Senate Bill No.11 75 
", ", ';: 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. MANNY VILLAR 
. 
AN ACT 
10 
JUL 12 A9 :3~ 
REQUIRING THE WEARING OF GLOVES IN FOOD PREPARATION 
IN FOOD ESTABLISHMENTS. 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the 
Philippines in Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Title- This Aet shall be known and cited as the "Wearing of 
Gloves in Food Preparations Act". 
SECTION 2. For the purposes of this Act, "food establishment" includes a 
restaurant and any other place used in the production, preparation, manufacture, 
packing, storage or handling of food intended for sale or distribution for human 
consumption. 
SECTION 3. Any person' who is in direct contact with food ingredients in 
the preparation of food products in a food establishment to wear gloves that are 
made of non-absorbent material. The gloves are to be maintained in an intact, 
clean and sanitary condition and, if the gloves are designed for re-use, must be 
easily cleaned and sanitized. 
SECTION 4. Any food establishment found to have violated this Act shall 
be divested of its license or permit to operate such establishment. 
SECTION 5. Implementing Rules and Regulations- The Secretary of 
Health shall promulgate such rules and regulations as may be necessary to 
implement the provisions of this Act within thirty (30) days after approval of this 
Act. 
SECTION 6. All laws, decrees or executive issuances and any rules and 
regulations or any part thereof which may be inconsistent with any of the 
provisions of this Act are hereby deemed repealed, amended or modifies 
accordingly. 
2 


r 
SECTION 7. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its complete 
publication in two (2) newspapers of general publication. 
Approved, 
3
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
10 
JUL 21 
PI! :45 
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Constitution, Article 13, Section 12, provides: 
The State shall establish and maintain an effective food and drug 
regulatory 
system 
and 
undertake 
appropriate 
health 
manpower 
development and research, responsive to the country's health needs and 
problems. 
This bill requires that packaged meat treated with an additive, colorant, or any 
other method to enhance its appearance include a clear, conspicnous, and easily readable 
label on the packaging stating those details, and advising the consnmer to check the 
packing date to determine its freslmess. Additives such as carbon monoxide, vitamin E, 
and colorants are sometimes used so that meat appears fresher than it is. This practice 
can mask spoilage, and lead to consumers purchasing meat which is not as fresh as they 
believe. 1 
cLzw\.- 4. ~.verr. ~y:t'~ 
M/Y' MIRIAM DEF~NSOR S'ANTI~U 
I This bill was originally filed in the third regular session of the 14th Congress. 


FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
) 
) 
) 
SENATE 
S.No. 1787 
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago 
AN ACT 
10 
JIJL 21 
P 4 :;\5 
2 
REQUIRING MEAT PACKERS TO DISCLOSE THE ADDITIVES THAT THEY 
3 
PLACE IN THEIR PRODUCTS 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
4 
SECTION 1. Short Title. - This Act shall be referred to as the "Meat Additive 
5 
Disclosure Act." 
6 
SECTION 2. Packaging Requirement. - Any person who packages meat for sale 
7 
which has been treated using an additive, colorant, or any other method to enhance the 
8 
appearance of the meat, including but not limited to carbon monoxide, vitamin E, or any 
9 
other substance either approved or not by the Bureau of Food and Drugs to improve the 
10 
appearance of the meat, shall include a clear, conspicuous, and easily readable label on 
11 
the packaging stating: 
12 
THIS MEAT HAS BEEN TREATED TO ENHANCE ITS 
13 
APPEARANCE. CHECK PACKING DATE TO DETERMINE 
14 
FRESHNESS. 
15 
SECTION 3. Penalty for non-observance. - The business license of the meat 
16 
packer shaH be revoked for failure to comply with the immediately preceding section. 
17 
SECTION 4. Separability Clause. - If any part or provision of this Act is held 
18 
invalid or unconstitutional, the other parts or provisions thereof shall remain valid and 
19 
effective. 


... 
SECTION 5. Repealing Clause. - All laws, decrees, orders, proclamations, rules 
2 
and regulations or parts thereof, inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are hereby 
3 
repealed, amended or modified accordingly. 
4 
SECTION 6. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days 
5 
from its publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved, 
2
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
10 
.JUL 21 
P4:51 
SENATE 
S. No. 
1794 
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago 
.J 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Constitution, Article 15, Section 1 provides: 
The State recognizes the Filipino family as the foundation of the nation. 
Accordingly, it shall strengthen its solidarity and actively promote its total 
development. 
Article 15, Section 3(2) demands that the State shall defend: 
The right of children to assistance, including proper care and nutrition, 
and special protection from all forms of neglect, abuse, cruelty, exploitation and 
other conditions prejudicial to their development. 
A more stringent background check must be done prior to the approval of a petition for 
adoption so that information that points to a history of substance abuse is discovered. In order to 
locate suitable adoptive homes for children to insure their safety, prospective parents should be 
required to take chemical testing prior to the issuance of a favorable decision. If the test yields a 
positive result, the individual should be denied even the remotest chance of damaging a child's 
future . • 
• This bill was originally filed in the third regular session of the 14th Congress. 
I 


1 
2 
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
SENA1J\ 
S. B. No. 
1794 
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago 
AN ACT REQUIRING CHEMICAL TESTING 
FOR PROSPECTIVE ADOPTIVE PARENTS 
10 
,JUL 21 P 4 :51 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
assembled: 
3 
SECTION I. Chemical Testing. The petition for adoption of a prospective parent shall be 
4 
denied when the results of his chemical test reveal the presence of prohibited drugs or alcohol. 
5 
The chemical test result referred to in this section shall cover not only the test required in this 
6 
Act but also includes the chemical test required for the issuance of driver's licenses and 
7 
employment purposes. 
8 
SECTION 2. Collaboration. The Department of Social Welfare and Development and the 
9 
Department of Health shall prepare the rules for chemical testing required in this Act. 
10 
SECTION 3. Repealing Clause. - All laws, decrees, orders, rules and regulations or parts 
11 
thereof inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are hereby repealed, amended or modified 
12 
accordingly. 
13 
SECTION 4. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect after fifteen (15) days 
14 
following its publication in the Official Gazette or in two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved, 
I
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE' 
S. No.1101 
F, •• 
•• 
RECEIVED BY !---ilfA..-_ .. 
Introduced by Senator Manny Villar 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
This bill aims to cure the defect in the present system where the 40% 
share of the gross collection derived by the national government from national 
wealth taxes is not fully remitted to the host local government units. 
It therefore seeks to mandate persons, natural or juridical, engaged in the 
utilization and development of national wealth to pay directly such shares to the 
host local government unit. 
This will ensure that the host local government unit shall receive its just 
share from national wealth taxes. Hence, immediate .approval of this bill is 
earnestly requested. 


FIFTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
s.No,1101, MCEIVEOBV'+ 
Introduced by Senator Manny Villar 
AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE DIRECT REMITTANCE TO THE HOST LOCAL 
GOVERNMENT UNIT OF ITS FORTY PERCENT (40%) SHARE OF THE 
GROSS COLLECTION DERIVED BY THE NATIONAL GOVERNMENT FROM 
NATIONAL WEALTH TAXES, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SECTION 293 
OF THE REPULIC ACT NO. 7160, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE LOCAL 
GOVERNMENT CODE OF 1991 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Section 293 of Republic Act 1 No. 7160, otherwise known as 
the Local Government Code of 1991, is hereby amended to read as follows: 
"SEC. 293. Remittance of the Share of Local Government Units. 
-
The share of local government units from the utilization and 
development of national wealth shall be remitted in accordance with 
Section 286 of this Code: Provided, however, That ANY PERSON, 
NATURAL OR JURIDICAL, INCLUDING [in the case of any] 
government agency or government-owned or -controlled corporation 
engaged in the utilization and 
development of the national wealth, 
[such share] shall [be] 
directly remit[ted] to the provincial, city, 
municipal or barangay treasurer, AS THE CASE MAY BE, OF THE 
HOST LOCAL 
GOVERNMENT UNIT concerned ITS FORTY 
PERCENT (40%) 
SHARE DERIVED FROM NATIONAL WEALTH 
TAXES UNDER 
SECTION 290 OF THIS CODE AND THE 
REMAINING 
SIXTY 
PERCENT (60%) 
TO THE 
NATIONAL 
GOVERNMENT. [within five (5) days after the end of each quarter.] 
SEC. 2. All other laws, rules and regulations inconsistent with this Act 
are hereby repealed, amended or modified accordingly. 
SEC. 3. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication 
in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved, 
2