bettergovph/raw-philippine-data huggingface dataset:
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E  
S.B.No. 296
Aji TIME:
Introduced by Senator Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel HI
AN ACT
IMPOSING A UNIFORM TAX FOR EXCESS CAMPAIGN 
CONTRIBUTIONS, AMENDING FOR THIS PURPOSE 
SECTION 24 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8424, AS AMENDED, 
OTHERWISE KNOWN AS “NATIONAL INTERNAL REVENUE
CODE OF 1997”
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Section 13 of Republic Act No. 7166, otherwise known as ''An Act 
Providing for Synchronized National and Local Elections and for 
Electoral Reforms, Authorizing Appropriations Therefor, and for Other 
Purposes,'' provides for the exemption of duly reported contributions 
given to candidates or political parties from donor’s tax. Clearly, the 
law is silent as to the treatment of unreported or erroneously reported 
campaign contributions as well as the treatment of unutilized campaign 
contributions.
The silence of the law paved the way for the Bureau of Internal 
Revenue to issue Revenue Regulation No. 7-2011 dated February 16, 
2011, which imposed the following tax rules on campaign contributions:
1. 
to be exempt from income tax, campaign contributions must 
have been fully utilized;
2. 
unutilized/excess campaign funds shall be subject to income 
tax; and
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S.B. No. 
64 fi
of 
^  f1.it
•16 JUL20 P2 -49
Kl { ?
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam" A. Aquino IV
AN ACT PROVIDING A FRAMEWORK FOR CITIZEN PARTICIPATION IN THE LEGISLATIVE 
PROCESS THROUGH THE USE OF THE INTERNET AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Philippines is one o f the most active nations on Facebook w ith 30 million 
Filipinos registered to the popular social media website. On the Internet, Filipinos are able 
to share personal stories, talents, products, appeals for donations, and grievances. And in 
the May 2016 elections, ideas on politics, governance and legislation flooded our social 
media feeds.
The Internet has proven tim e and again, through elections, natural disasters, public 
scandals, and the like, that it has the power to unite public efforts. The Internet has a power 
that we harness during times of need and that we ought to maximize for the betterm ent of 
our country.
This bill seeks the creation o f an online platform  for ordinary citizens to create 
petitions fo r both Houses of Congress to review, amend, repeal or create a law. This 
platform  shall be launched and maintained by the Presidential Legislative Liaison Office and 
it shall serve as a direct communication channel between the legislative branch of 
government and the general public. Petitions launched on the website should need to have 
been electronically signed by at least 300,000 before the proposed measure w ill be 
fo rw arder to the relevant com mittees in both Congress and the Senate.
In our nation, we strive to achieve full participation in the democratic process. W ith 
the advent o f widespread Internet access, it has never been easier to improve and 
democratize our legislative process than it is now, utilizing a fast, efficient, and transparent 
technology to hear the voice o f ordinary citizens.
In view o f the foregoing, the passing o f this bill is earnestly sought.
SenatorT^ablo Benigno "Barh" A. Aquino IV
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session
)
J^pnatf
<9lhrr Ilf tJ}» ^rrrrlsry
*16 JUL19 A10:21
S E N A T E  
S.B. No.
Hi 
i:iV f:i) BY: 
\
In tro d u ced  by SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA
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 REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7160, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE 
LOCAL GOVERNMENT CODE OF 1991
Explanatory Note
Under the present system , it usually takes a long tim e before a local 
government un it (LGU) receives its portion of the proceeds of the excise taxes, 
which has to be disbursed from the national governm ent coffers. Due to this, 
LGUs have a difficult time financing their developmental projects th at purport 
to advance the local economy.
This bill seeks to provide a remedy by m andating the corporations or any 
group, private or public, engaging in the utilization and development of the 
national wealth within the area, to directly rem it to the concerned LGU its forty 
percent (40%) share from the national wealth taxes. Under this proposed 
system, the proceeds due to the LGUs shall no longer pass through the 
D epartm ent of Budget and M anagement, which is usually the cause of the 
delay.
Through this m easure, LGUs will be able to immediately act on their projects. 
This will help improve their investm ent climate and thereby provide an im petus 
to the growth of their economy.
In view of the foregoing, the passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
LOREN LEGARDA
Senator
ii
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session
)
SENATE 
S.B. No. 
3 1 1
BILLS
Introduced by Senator SONNY ANGARA
AN ACT
CREATING A NATIONAL ANTI-ILLEGAL DRUG CAMPAIGN AND RESEARCH PROGRAM,
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Based on the latest data from the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB), approximately 1.7 
million Filipinos are considered illegal drug users as of 2012. Data also showed that young 
Filipinos aged 10-29, or those in basic and tertiary education, are the most vulnerable to illegal 
drugs. Illegal drugs deter the country’s development by corrupting Filipinos, especially the 
youth, ruining both their health and their aspirations.
The severity of this issue must not be ignored as addiction to illegal drugs causes an 
average death toll of 1,700 per year. According to DDB, drug syndicates thrive in close to 8,700 
barangays, or 20 percent of all barangays in the country. To combat its proliferation in the 
country, it is high time that a national integrated program be established to strengthen the drive 
against illegal drugs.
This measure seeks to put up an exclusive fund, to be called the Anti-Illegal Drug 
Campaign and Research (AIDCARE) Fund, which will be used to create a nationwide education 
and awareness program on iilegal drugs; to implement a mandatory training for local 
government unit personnel involved with the enforcement, research, and policymaking on illegal 
drugs; to establish a national helpline for drug abusers; and, to create a public registry of drug 
dealers, pushers and traffickers. Such fund will be included under the annual budgets of the 
Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Education (DepEd), 
Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB), and Philippine Drug Enforcement Authority (PDEA).
This measure acknowledges that while the government has declared war against illegal 
drugs in order to maintain peace and order, it must also provide an opportunity for drug abusers 
to reform their lives, as they are merely victims as well of drug lords who control those involved 
in massive illegal drug trade in the country.
In view of the foregoing, the approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
SONNY ANGARA
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E
739
S. B. No.
09f<ir»of
*16 JUL 21 A10:38
U r C i  1 
^ Y : .
V
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT
PROVIDING AUTOMATIC PROMOTION OF GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS AND 
EMPLOYEES UPON RETIREMENT FROM GOVERNMENT SERVICE AND FOR
OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
It has been often said that our men and women in the government service, 
particularly those who have devoted their years in the government for more than 
twenty or thirty years despite meager salaries are so called unsung heroes of our 
country. But beyond this recognition, nothing much appears to await them as they 
leave the government service.
This bill therefore aims to give due recognition to these unsung heroes by the 
expedient act of promoting them one grade higher at the time of their retirement, 
an assurance that when they leave the government service, they have been daily 
rewarded.
This system of automatic promotion is an enshrined policy in the military 
and there is no compelling reason why said system should not likewise be extended to 
the civil service.
Approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
of th r.F
•16 
AUG -1 
All :29
SENATE 
S. No.
\ { i
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto
AN ACT
DECRIMINALIZING LIBEL, REPEALING FOR THIS PURPOSE ARTICLES 353, 354, 
355, 356, 357, 360, 361 AND 362 OF ACT NO, 3815, AS AMENDED, OTHERWISE 
KNOWN AS “THE REVISED PENAL CODE” AND SECTION 4 (c) 4, CHAPTER II OF 
REPUBLIC ACT NO. 10175, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE “CYBERCRIME 
PREVENTION ACT OF 2012”
Explanatory Note
The bill seeks to decriminalize libel as defined and penalized under our statutes. For this 
purpose it will repeal Articles 353, 354, 355, 356, 357, 360, 361 and 362 of the Revised Penal 
Code and Section 4 (c) 4 of Republic Act No. 10175 or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.
Historically, libel was conceived as a repressive tool against criticisms and insults to 
government. It was introduced by the Spanish Codigo Penal and reinforced by the 1932 Revised 
Penal Code during the American occupation thereby making insulting remarks punishable in 
many instances.
In his dissenting opinion in Disini, et. al. vs. Secretary of Justice (GR No. 2033335), 
February 11, 2014, Justice Marvic Mario Victor F. Leonen said:
“In essence, Philippine libel law is a “fusion” of the Spanish Law 
on defamachion and the American law on libel. It started as a legal tool 
to protect government and the status quo. The bare text of the law had to 
be qualified through jurisprudential interpretation as the fundamental 
right to expression became clearer. 
In theory, libel prosecution has 
slowly evolved from protecting both private citizens and public figures to 
its modem notion of shielding only private parties from defamatory 
utterances.
XXX
Libel law now is used not so much to prosecute but deter speech.
What is charged as criminal libel may contain precious protected speech.
There is very little to support the majority view that the law will not 
continue to have this effect on speech.
XXX
It is time that we now go further and declare libel as provided in 
the Revised Penal Code and in the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, 
as unconstitutional.
xxx”
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session
)
SENATE 
S.B. No. 
3 .1 6
Introduced by Senator SONNY ANGARA
AN ACT
CREATING AND ESTABLISHING A STATE-OF-THE-ART AND HIGHLY SCIENTIFIC 
SPORTS COMPLEX KNOWN AS THE “ PHILIPPINE AMATEUR SPORTS TRAINING 
CENTER, AND FUNDING FOR THE ACQUISITION OF PROPERTY, CONSTRUCTION OF 
FACILITIES, INCLUDING ITS ADMINISTRATION, MAINTENANCE, AND MANAGEMENT,
AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The state of sports development in the country has been neglected for the past years. 
We have dated sports facilities, if not rundown, such as the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex 
(RMSC), which was built more than eight decades ago, and the PhilSports Arena, which is now 
40 years old.
In 2013, the Commission on Audit has noted the decaying state of the RMSC citing 
several defective and damaged sports equipment and facilities that pose security risks 
particularly to our athletes and coaches. In addition, the area surrounding the RMSC is highly 
saturated with gambling spots, night bars and shopping centers rendering the same less than 
ideal for optimal elite athlete training.
Our Southeast Asian neighbors, on the other hand, have been funding the construction 
of impressive stadiums and training centers. In the previous decade alone, Vietnam built a $53- 
million national training center and with plans to build more by 2020. Singapore upgraded all 
their sports facilities when they hosted the Olympic Youth Games 2010. Thailand has numerous 
sports complexes all over the country, while Malaysia has its grand Bukit Jalil National Stadium, 
and Brunei its majestic Hassal Bolkiah National Stadium. In preparation for the SEA Games in 
2014, Myanmar built new stadiums, including Wunna Theikidi Stadium in Nay Pyi Taw, training 
centers and dormitories for its athletes.
All of our remarkable and excellent athletes and coaches deserve adequate support, 
especially those competing overseas against foreign athletes who have been primed using 
modern state-of-the-art training facilities in their respective countries. This measure seeks to 
establish a Philippine Amateur Sports Training Center as the new, functional, and much-needed 
venue for training at par with international standards. This, in turn, will result to their improved 
performance and better results in all sports competitions. Undeniably, the establishment of the 
Philippine Amateur Sports Training Center will not only give a tremendous boost to the morale 
of our national athletes, but also instill national pride and foster patriotism among the Filipino 
people. However, it must be emphasized that existing training centers, such as the RMSC and 
the PhilSports Arena be maintained for other sports development program purposes.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
SENATE BILL No.. 369
&
Introduced by SENATOR LEILA M. DE LIMA
AN ACT
INSTITUTIONALIZING A CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION SYSTEM, 
REPEALING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 5180, OTHERWISE 
KNOWN AS “AN ACT PRESCRIBING A UNIFORM SYSTEM OF 
PRELIMINARY INVESTIGATION BY PROVINCIAL AND CITY FISCALS 
AND THEIR ASSISTANTS, AND BY STATE ATTORNEYS OR THEIR 
ASSISTANTS”, AND OTHER RELATED LAWS AND ISSUANCES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This legislative measure aims to streamline and strengthen the process of 
criminal investigation that will expedite and improve the administration of the 
criminal justice system in the country.
The conduct of criminal investigation is an important element in effectively 
prosecuting criminal cases. However, it is imperative to look into the current state of 
the judicial procedure in the country, and effectively address chronic delays and 
systemic inefficiency in litigating crimes.
There are two major reforms proposed under this measure.
First, the investigating law enforcer and the investigating prosecutor shall 
work hand-in-hand in investigating a crime. In actively participating in case build­
up, both the police and the prosecutor can combine their forensic and legal expertise 
to come up with a solid case that will withstand the rigors of trial. Furthermore, the 
fusion of functions will make the handling of evidence during the investigation stage 
more systematic.
Second, the Investigating Prosecutors, based on the complaint and/or the 
result of the criminal investigation which they themselves led and supervised, shall 
determine, without need of additional adversarial proceedings, whether there is a 
prima facie case to elevate the case to court. Upon filing in court, the case shall be 
set for preliminary hearing where the trial judge evaluates the evidence of both 
parties and resolves all other pre-trial incidents in one proceeding, and during the 
end of which a determination shall be made using the standard of preponderance of 
evidence whether a full-blown criminal trial is warranted.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHIILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
(flflrtof 
ctir
'16 
JUL21 
?2'A5
SENATE
823
S. No.
KF.C.! r  
i WY:
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Reeto
AN ACT
ACCELERATING UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE COVERAGE AND IMPROVING 
PHILHEALTH BENEFIT PACKAGES BY EARMARKING THE ENTIRE PHILIPPINE 
CHARITY SWEEPSTAKES OFFICE CHARITY FUND FOR SUCH PURPOSE, 
THEREBY AMENDING REPUBLIC ACT NO. 1169, AS AMENDED BY BAT AS 
PAMBANSA BLG. 42
Explanatory Note
The p e so  has previously been mired in eontroversies over the alleged misuse of its 
Charity Fund -  a billion pesos fund utilized to undertake medical and other social welfare 
program and projects of the PCSO and implemented through the services of Non-Government 
Organizations (NGOs), the Chureh and other program partners as conduits of funds for charity 
projects to the people.
Given the discretionary nature of the Charity Fund and the lack of clear accountability 
provided in the PCSO eharter, the disbursement of the Charity Fund has not been in aceordanee 
with specific standards and is only subject to the approval of the PCSO board.
Furthen-nore, the publie is left in the dark as to the magnitude and allocation of the PCSO 
Charity Fund. There is no transparency in the use of the fund because it does not go through the 
usual budget scrutiny as it is considered an off-budget item and, therefore, not discussed in the 
congressional public hearings on the General Appropriations Bill.
For as long as we leave the disbursement of the Charity Fund in the hands of the PCSO 
board, allegations of abuse in its utilization will continue to be a thorny problem for the 
institution.
This bill intends to amend the charter of the PCSO. Tlie Charity Fund which constitutes 
30% of the net receipts of the PCSO, under the bill, shall be used entirely for the National Health 
Insurance Program administered by the Philhealth for universal coverage as well as improving its 
benefit packages.
Tlie equivalent amount shall be included in the General Appropriations Act (GAA) as a 
Special Purpose Fund for the counterpart shares of the national and local government in the 
National Health Insuranee Progiam under the Philhealth. Thus, “what you see is what you get ” 
as reflected in the GAA and no more "pork barrel” for the PCSO board.
Hence, instead of the PCSO tunneling the funds to its various government hospital 
beneficiaries, PCSO’s Charity Fund would now be directly infused to PhilHealth that will allow 
indigents to seek treatment in government and private hospitals as well.
Given such set-up, indigents no longer need to suffer the long queues of patients in the 
PCSO for financial assistance before they can line up in the hospitals for the medical services.
SEVENTEEN ! 11 CONGRESS Ol- THE REPUBLIC} 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
}
First Regular Session 
}
S E N A r E 
Senate Bill No. 233
if) TIME:
BILLS & MDEX
InUodueed by SENATOR LACSON
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The primordial reason for converting a municipality or cluster of barangays 
into a city is to ensure its economic viability (Latasa v Commission on Elections, G.R. 
No. 154829, December 10, 2003). As a general rule, the creation of a local 
government unit or its conversion from one level to another shall be based on 
verifiable indicators or viability and projected capacity to provide services, 
specifically income, population and land area (Section 7, R.A. No. 7160, Local 
Government Code of 1991).
Among the three, the income requirement is undeniably the most controlling 
and defining factor. In recognition of such fact, the Code sets forth that the income 
must be sufficient, based on acceptable standards, to provide for all essential facilities, 
sci-vices and special functions commensurate with the size of its population, as 
expected of the local government unit concerned (Section 7(a), supra).
With regard to the population requirement, the Code merely provides that 
population shall be determined as the total number of inhabitants, within the territorial 
jurisdiction of the local government unit concerned (Section 7(b), supra).
And lastly, with regard to the land area, the Code merely requires that the same 
be contiguous; properly identified by metes and bounds; and more importantly, must 
be sulllcicnt to provide for such basic services and facilities to meet the requirements 
of its populace (Section 7(c), supra).
As our law stands today, before a municipality or cluster of barangays could be 
converted into a component city, it must have an annual income of at least One 
Hundred Million Pesos (PI 00,000,000.00) and a tcrritoiy of at least one hundred (100) 
square kilometers, or a population of not less than one hundred fifty thousand 
(150,000) (Sec. 450, R.A. No. 7160, Local Government Code, as amended by R.A. 
9009).
However, there arc some municipalities, which despite their small land area or 
population have demonstrated their capacities to provide essential government 
facilities and social services to their inhabitants that arc comparable and even above 
par with existing cities.
Living in a city has its corresponding economic advantage. Thus, it would be 
utterly unfair to the inhabitants of municipalities to foreclose their rights to the 
benefits of cityhood because the municipalities they live in have land areas and
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
.
1' l l i f  R 
t(, (. 
•
16 
AliG - 1  
P 5  5 2
SENATE 
S. B. No. 9 6 8
■’ v-.
Introduced by SENATOR JOEL VILLANUEVA
AN ACT ESTABLISHING SOCIAL WELFARE ATTACHES AND
FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Filipinos who worked abroad at anytime during the period April 1 to 
September 30, 2015 was estimated at 2.4 million based on the 2015 Survey 
on Overseas Filipinos. Everyday, 6,092 workers leave the country for 
overseas work according to the Department of Labor and Employment 
(DOLE).
While many Filipinos continue to take their talents to overseas jobs, 
others are being forcibly repatriated because of economic instabilities, civil 
unrests, and natural calamities in migrant-receiving countries. Undocumented 
Filipino workers were also deported particularly from Japan, United Sates, 
Canada, and Europe.
Unfortunately, there are many OFWs who continue to fall victims to 
human trafficking, illegal recruitment, and abusive employers. In 2013 alone, 
there were 1,135 victims of human trafficking according to government data. 
On the other hand, the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration 
(POEA) handled an average of 1,600 illegal recruitment cases from 2007 to 
2011, while the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) handled 
more than 50,000 cases on-site annually from 2009 to 2013.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s.No. 858
'  
ifftirt nt H-i- 
iif'.-i n.
•16 
111 21 
P3;4l
H
i - '  
!
• n ’:
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto
AN ACT
SETTING A CEILING TO THE INDEBTEDNESS OF THE REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
TO ENSURE MACRO-ECONOMIC STABILITY AND SUSTAINABLE GROW TH AND FOR 
OTHER PURPOSES
Explanatory Note
The country’s total outstanding debt as of 2015 is P5.9 trillion, of which P3.88 trillion is domestic 
and P2.07 trillion is foreign.1 The rising total outstanding debt is attributable to the increasing domestic 
and foreign obligations and the impact of foreign exchange fluctuations.
The government’s huge budget deficit results in a seemingly relentless borrowing to cover 
expenditures for needed infrastructure and services. Results from an IMF study provide support for the 
hypothesis that higher debt service crowds out public investment.2 If left uncontrolled, the public debt 
can balloon to a magnitude that can wreak havoc on the fiscal balance. This can have a negative impact 
on the economy as a whole and with grave consequence on the quality of life of the people.
This bill proposes to put a cap on the indebtedness of the government at 50% of the Gross Domestic 
Product (GDP). From years 2010-2015, the debt-to-GDP ratio of the Philippines stood at 52.4%, 51.0%, 
51.5%, 49.2%, 45.4%, and 44.8% respectively.1 Though the debt-to-GDP ratio already went down to 
44.8% in 2015, the proposed cap will simply secure the prevention of potential negative impacts of high 
public debt on economic activity. The debt ceiling may be breached only when there are extraneous 
events beyond the control of the government subject to Presidential certification, and approval of 
Congress.
Historically, our fiscal managers have never met the original program targets set forth in the 
national budget. Every year, they propose to Congress a formula on how they would finance the proposed 
expenditure program for the incoming year. But at the end of the year, the actual revenue collections fall 
short of the numbers in the Budget of Expenditures and Sources of Financing (BESF).
This proposed measure also puts a cap on the borrowings of the national government by mandating 
the Chief Executive to go back to Congress and seek authority to borrow more in the event that the 
national government fiscal deficit target submitted by the President is breached before the end of the 
fiscal year. It is essential that Congress should be closely guided by a borrowing program developed by 
the President to restore fiscal discipline before the country falls into another debt trap.
Hence, this bill proposes to compel our economic managers to be more accurate and prudent in 
their targets on the revenue and expenditure program. Likewise, this will allow Congress to assert its 
power of the purse.
' Source: http://wH-w.treasury.gov.ph/statdala/yearly/yrdehtindicator.pdf Accessed on June 30, 2016
2 IMF Working Paper entitled, “External Debt, Public Investment, and Growth in Low-Income Countries” by Benedict Clements. Rina 
Bhattacharya. and Toan Quoc Nguyen
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES )
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s. No. 
263
INDEX
BILLS
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto
AN ACT
PRIORITIZING THE AGRICULTURAL SECTOR IN THE GRANT OF LOANS BY THE 
LAND BANK OF THE PHILIPPINES, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT 
NUMBER THREE THOUSAND EIGHT HUNDRED FORTY-FOUR, AS AMENDED
Explanatory Note
The Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) is a government financial institution that ranks 
among the top commercial banks in the Philippines in terms of deposits, assets, loans and capital. 
LBP’s original intent was limited to financing the acquisition by the Government of land for 
distribution and resale to small landholders as well as the purchase of landholdings by agricultural 
lessees as provided for under Republic Act 3844 or the Agricultural Land Reform Code. Today, LBP 
is one of the formal credit institutions with the highest level of visibility in the countryside. From 
being the financing arm of the agrarian reform program, the LBP has since expanded into a full- 
service commercial bank.
In 2014, LBP recorded a P385.9 billion in gross loan portfolio. However, much of the bank’s 
loan portfolio was offered to industries other than the agricultural sector. In the same year, 57.0% of 
the bank’s loan portfolio was extended to public utilities, micro, small and medium enterprises 
(MSMEs), housing, transportation, education, communications, environment projects, healthcare and 
tourism, while another 14.1% was tendered to other sectors like local government units, government- 
owned or -controlled corporations (GOCCs)1. This leaves only 28.9% of the bank’s gross loan 
portfolio to support small farmers and fisherfolk and to bolster agribusiness, aqua-business and 
agriculture-related projects of private enterprises, local government units (LGUs) and GOCCs.
This bill proposes to amend the charter of the Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP), allowing it 
to focus on the provision of affordable credit to the agriculture sector where most poor Filipinos 
belong. It amends the LBP Charter by giving priority to the agriculture sector and putting a cap to the 
amount of loans the bank may grant for programs and projects in sectors other than agriculture. Such 
move will allow the agricultural sector, particularly the small farmers and fisherfolks to share in the 
responsibility and fioiits of growth and development.
This bill seeks to restore the original intent for the creation of the Land Bank of the 
Philippines, which is to assist farmers and other agricultural workers, and to contribute to the fruition 
of agricultural development projects.
In view of the foregoing, the approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
/mdg
Landbank of the Philippines (2014). 2014 Annual Report: We help Nurture our Growing Nation.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
SENATE BILL No. 
368
TIME:
BILLS
Introduced by SENATOR LEILA M. DE LIMA
AN ACT
PUNISHING EXTRAORDINARY HEINOUS CRIMES WITH THE 
PENALTY OF QUALIFIED RECLUSIONPERPETUA, THEREBY 
AMENDING REPUBLIC ACT NO. 93 46, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS AN 
ACT PROHIBITING THE IMPOSITION OF DEATH PENALTY IN THE 
PHILIPPINES, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Constitution, Article 2, Sections 5, provides:
SECTION 5. 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.
The Constitution, Article 3, Sections 19 (1), further provides:
SECTION 19. (1) Excessive fines shall not be imposed, nor cruel, 
degrading or inhuman punishment inflicted. N either shall 
death penalty be imposed, unless, for compelling 
reasons 
involving heinous 
crimes, the 
Congress 
hereafter provides for it. Any death penalty already imposed 
shall be reduced to reclusion perpetua. (Emphasis supplied)
Peace and order is a cornerstone of our democracy. And a functioning 
criminal justice system, as a key component of peace and order, should be that which 
effectively deters the commission of crime, punishes the offenders commensurate to 
their crime, and rehabilitates those imprisoned for their actions.
As a measure of retributive justice, we enacted Republic Act (RA) No. 7659, 
otherwise known as An Act to Impose the Death Penalty on Certain Heinous Crimes, 
Amending for that Purpose the Revised Penal Laws, As Amended, Other Special 
Penal Laws, And for Other Purposes, to establish our national policy to enforce 
retributive justice against those who commit heinous crimes. However, following the 
international trend towards respecting the sanctity of human life and abolition of
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
F irst R egular Session
)
bills &
S E N A T E  
Senate B ill No.. 143
INTRODUCED BY SENATOR CYNTHIA VILLAR
AN ACT ESTABLISHING THE NATIONAL CROP PROTECTION PROGRAM, 
CREATING THE PHILIPPINE CROP PROTECTION AGENCY BY CONSOLIDATING 
THE DISPARATE CROP PROTECTION, QUARANTINE AND PEST MANAGEMENT 
EFFORTS, ACTIVITIES, AND AGENCIES, INTO A HOLISTIC AND INTEGRATED 
SERVICE TO PROMOTE THE SUSTAINABILITY AND GREATER PRODUCTIVITY OF 
THE PHILIPPINE AGRICULTURE SECTOR, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The 1987 Constitution declares that - the State shall promote sound agricultural 
development and agrarian reform; and that: all sectors of the economy and all regions of 
the country shall be given optimum opportunities to develop. The State recognizes that 
these can be achieved by way of improving agricultural productivity and sustainability in 
order to contribute to the country’s food security.
Increasing crop protection efficiencies will lead to greater farm income which directly 
contribute to the reduction and eradication of extreme rural poverty and hunger, and 
increasing the standards of living of farmers.
In view of the incidence of crop infestations in recent years, the need for safeguarding and 
protecting the crops sector from the risk of fast spreading plant diseases, invasive plant 
species, and insect and other biological pests, as well as the malpractices in the use of 
chemicals and new technologies, has become a vital concern to the agricultural sector at 
large.
The Philippine coconut industry faced probably its worst problem in decades when the 
coconut scale insect or aspidiotus destructor fCSI) infestation affected more than 1.2 
million coconut trees in the CALABARZON in 2010 and increased to about 2,699,872
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s.No. 290
Ijtl) 
T IM E :
B IL L S  4  IN D E X
_______________ Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F, Trillanes IV__________
AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR PROTECTION, SECURITY AND OTHER BENEFITS FOR 
W HISTLEBLOW ERS
EXPLANATORY NOTE
As an exercise of responsible citizenship, whistleblowing against corruption can help create new 
societal and organizational cultures and values that emphasize integrity and honesty in the 
workplace. As a courageous act, whistleblowing against coiruption can create inspiring stories 
that may, in the long run, reduce people's tolerance for questionable practices of doing business 
and public service.
In the Philippines, initiatives to encourage whistleblowing are not new. In fact, several laws 
encourage whistleblowing to curb bribery and other corrupt practices. However, the existing legal 
framework barely meets the need for whistleblower's protection and support. Considering the 
risks of whistleblowing in a culture that has a high tolerance for corruption, the existing legal 
framework fails to provide attractive incentives for actual whistleblowing.
Thus, I filed this measure in the hope that it would help in curtailing graft and corruption in 
government by ensuring the security of whistle blowers who divulge the erring practices of public 
officials and employees. I also hope that the passage of this bill will counter the stigma of 
ostracism frequently suffered by whistleblowers.
As Former Senator Diokno had said:
“Why be honest, when it pays to be dishonest? Why fight for others, when they won’t 
fight for you? -  or even for themselves? ... the answer I think likes in what life means to you. 
If life means having a good time, money, fame, power, security -  then you don’t need 
principles, all you need are techniques. On the other hand, if happiness counts more than a 
good time, respect more than fame, right more than power and peace of soul more than 
security; if death doesn’t end life but transforms it, then you must be true to yourself and to 
God and to love the truth and justice and freedom that are God’s other names.”
In view of the foregoing, the early passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
A N T O N I^‘SONNY” F
/  
Senator
“u-F-
TRILL?
LLANES IV
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
SENATE
S.B. No. 169
BILLS
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT
ESTABLISHING A SIMPLIFIED TAX REGIME FOR SMALL BUSINESSES, AND FOR THIS 
PURPOSE AMENDING CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF THE NATIONAL INTERNAL REVENUE
CODE
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The key to achieving prosperity for impoverished Filipino families is a strong 
micro, small and medium enterprise sector. A strong MSME sector also, in turn, 
strengthens a country's economy and guards against foreign financial crises.
Currently, MSMEs already account for roughly 32-35% of the country's GDP. 
Sadly, despite the growth in number of small enterprises in the Philippines, few are 
able to sustain their operation and create long-term success.
For this reason, our office has pushed for a number of policies to improve the 
support system for this vital sector and we will continue to do so until our country s 
business environment is ripe for local entrepreneurs to succeed.
This particular legislation deals with the tricky subject of taxation.
According to a joint study by PwC and the World Bank, Paying Taxes 2016 , 
the Philippines is on the 126th spot out of 189 economies in Ease of Paying Taxes.
This must change, which is why we are asserting the Small Business Tax 
Reform Act as a measure to simplify tax procedures and unburden our small 
businesses of the complex tax process.
Proposed measures include a simpler bookkeeping, a special lane and 
assistance desk for small businesses, exemption from tax audit, annual filing of 
returns, and payment in installment.
This bill also proposes the lowering of the income tax rate for small 
businesses and an exemption from VAT, among other methods of stimulating growth 
in small businesses as opposed to hindering it.
http://www.pwc.com/gx/cn/scrviccs/tax/paving-taxcs-2016.html
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
SENATE
S. B. N&.___360
BILLS
Introduced by Senator Maria Lourdes Nancy S. Binay
AN ACT GRANTING PARENTAL CARE LEAVE WITH FULL PAY TO ALL 
EMPLOYED PARENTS OR LEGAL GUARDIANS OF MINOR CHILDREN IN THE
PRIVATE AND PUBLIC SECTOR
EXPLANATORY NOTE
There are several types of leaves allowed by law, as follows:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Service Incentive Leave under the Labor Code -  five (5) days;
Maternity Leave under the SSS Law -  sixty (60) days or seventy-eight (78) 
days in case of caesarian delivery;
Paternity Leave under R.A. 8187 or the Paternity Leave Act -  seven (7) days; 
Solo Parent’s Leave under R.A. 8972 or the Solo Parents’ Welfare Act -  
seven (7) working days;
Battered Women Leave under R.A. 9262 or the Anti-Violence Against 
Women and Children Act -  up to ten (10) days; and
Special leaves under R.A. 9710 or the Magna Carta for Women -  two (2) 
months.
There are already plenty of leaves available, but there is no existing leave benefit available to 
employees who address special and unexpected circumstances. Special circumstances would 
include any other instance that would promote the minor’s physical, moral, spiritual, 
intellectual and social well being that needs the quality time, supervision and undivided 
attention of the minor’s parents.
This bill ensures that employed parents, solo or otherwise, as well as legal guardians in both 
public and private institutions, are given the opportunity to care for their children especially 
in instances when the latter requires special attention.
In view of the foregoing, the timely passage of this bill is earnestly recommended.
MARIA LO U R D ^^^N C Y  S. BINAY
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SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E  
S. B. No.
*16 
JUL 21 
All -25
RECnlvi-.i- T?Y:
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT
ABOLISHING THE USE OF COMMUNITY TAX CERTIFICATE AND THE POWER 
TO LEVY COMMUNITY TAX REPEALING FOR THAT PURPOSE THE 
PERTINENT PROVISIONS OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7160, AS AMENDED, 
OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT CODE OF 1991
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The history of the community tax certificate or cedula, then known as residence 
tax and residence certificate, brings incarnations of our country's colonial past. First 
implemented as a 19th century tax reform in the Philippines during the Spanish colonial 
times, following the abolition of the tribute system, the cedula was issued to all Filipinos, 
then called indios, upon payment of a residence tax.1
However, the cedula would later on play a significant role in Philippine 
Revolution when Andres Bonifacio together with his fellow katipuneros tore up their 
cedulas in defiance of Spanish rule in a meeting in Balintawak, known as the Cry of 
Pugadlawin that signalled the beginning of Philippine Revolution.
This bill, symbolic it may seem, abolishes the community tax certificate system, 
primarily its use as a form of identification as when, among others, a Filipino 
acknowledges a document before a notary public, takes an oath of office or is appointed 
to a government position. It is submitted that the cedula as a primary form of 
identification has lost its significance and value. If at all, the cedula only serves as a mere 
relic of our country's colonial past.
Consequently, the pertinent provisions of the Republic Act No. 7160, the Local 
Government Code of 1991, as amended, are proposed to be repealed, which carry over 
the provisions imposing residence tax then found in Commonwealth Act No. 465 and 
the Local Tax Code of 1973, and mandate the use of community tax certificates as a 
primary form of identification.
We submit.
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
1 Wikipedia.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session
S E N A T E
S.B. No. 424
^
r n : ! i r
<0««t o f
•16 JUL19 AlOn?
u 
;;i\ ! !! BY;
In tro d u ced  by S en ato r LOREN LEGARDA
AN ACT PUNISHING THE WILLFUL FAILURE TO PAY CHILD SUPPORT
Explanatory Note
It is the prim ary responsibility of the State to promote the rights of children to 
survival, development and special protection of their well-being. Children count 
on their parents for m aterial, educational and medical support necessary to 
become productive m em bers of our society.
The acts punished in Republic Act No. 7610, as am ended, otherwise known as 
the Special Protection of Children Against Child Abuse, Exploitation and 
Discrimination Act, and Presidential Decree No. 603, as am ended, otherwise 
known as the Child and Youth Welfare Code, fail to include the willful failure to 
pay child support.
The State m ust protect and defend the right of children to child support, and 
parents m ust be responsible for their children. A law punishing the willful 
failure to pay child support m ust therefore be enacted.
In view of the foregoing, early passage of this bill is earnestly requested.
LYDRfNLEGARDA
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
< $ f( ir to f llit.p r'r! I p tn  u
'16 
JUL21 
P2 5 0
SENATE
826
S. No.
Kj r i  i v, 
: i^V:
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto
AN ACT
EXCLUDING OVERTIME PAY FROM THE COMPUTATION OF TAXABLE 
INCOME AMENDING FOR THIS PURPOSE SECTION 32 (B) (7) OF REPUBLIC ACT 
NO. 8424, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE NATIONAL INTERNAL REVENUE CODE 
OF 1997, AS AMENDED
Explanatory Note
Man does not work like a machine. He cannot work indefinitely. He needs ample time 
to rest and revitalize in order to prepare for another day’s work, while making sure that he 
performs to the best of his abilities at all times.
This is why labor laws in many countries prescribe a maximum number of work hours. 
The Philippine Labor Code prescribed the maximum hours of work for employees at eight (8) 
hours a day for six (6) consecutive days. If the employee works beyond eiglit (8) hours, the 
employer is required to pay additional compensation equivalent to the employee’s regular wage 
plus at least twenty-five percent (25%) of his regular wage. If the employee renders overtime on 
a holiday or rest day, the rate is increased to thirty percent (30%)’.
Employees in the government are also entitled to overtime pay but they are governed by 
Civil Service laws and rules.
An employee who renders overtime work puts in additional hours of work and requires 
greater physical and mental effort. Instead of being able to rest early and spend more time with 
the family, the employee is forced to extend the working hours to achieve management’s goals. 
Thus, it is only fitting that the employee be properly compensated for additional work hours 
rendered.
Unfortunately, compensation received for overtime work forms part of an employee’s 
taxable income. This not only limits the full enjoyment of monetary benefits due the employee 
for putting in more hours of work but also diminishes the value of the additional physical and 
mental effort contributed.
In order to give due recognition to the hours worked in excess of the preseribed 
maximum working hours, this bill seeks to exclude overtime pay from the computation of 
taxable income amending for the purpose Section 32 (B) (7) of Republic Act No. 8424, 
otherwise known as the “National Internal Revenue Code of 1997’’, as amended.
This proposal will cost the government foregone revenues. However, more money in 
taxpayers’ pockets will increase disposable ineome and boost consumer spending which in turn 
would trigger demand for more goods and services and thereby stimulate activities in the 
industrial and service sectors and generate more taxes.
Labor Code of the Philippines.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
*
SENATE
s. No. 577
o f  Itif 
'I II t
’16 
Jill. 19 
P5 ‘01
n i  ( ^ .
-
Introduced by Senator Antonio “■Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
PROMOTING GOVERNMENT AGENCY PERFORMANCE EXCELLENCE
EXPLANATORY NOTE
In today's environment, to remain viable and stay ahead, organizations must eontinually scour 
their operations for opportunities to improve. Executives today expect continual improvement 
-  real and lasting improvements that creates public satisfaction, improve public service 
effectiveness and internal process efficiencies. Improvements that are realized by bottom line 
results.
Achieving excellence is the result of high perfonnance throughout the entire organization. 
Leaders at all levels of an organization must relentlessly pursue the perfonnance edge; those 
actions that will propel the organization to the next level of internal and external 
performance. The state cannot legislate excellence, but can expect it, support it and 
acknowledge it when it occurs. Excellence is a passion and when it exists the legislators 
should support it fully. It is in this light that this bill seeks to create a process that will oversee 
the joumey to excellence and will encourage the most vital aspects of the Philippine 
government to be managed at a world class level.
In view of the foregoing, the passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
A N f0 ^fe o 'i:r^ot^N Y”' J ^ ^
IV
Senator
fa:
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
M ' t '  
H:‘
I (M .-u * :.
*16 
.J1JL21 
P 3 -48
SENATE
s. No. 
8Gfi
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto
AN ACT
DECLARING JULY 27 OF EVERY YEAR AS A SPECIAL NATIONAL NON­
WORKING HOLIDAY IN COMMEMORATION OF THE FOUNDING ANNIVERSARY 
OF THE IGLESIA NI CRISTO IN THE PHILIPPINES
Explanatory Note
The Iglsia ni Cristo (INC) is a Christian religion founded in the Philippines by Brother 
Felix Y. Manalo when it established its first eongregation in Punta, Sta. Ana, Manila. On July 27, 
1914, the INC was registered with the Philippine government. Brother Felix Manalo became the 
first Executive Minister who soon trained ministers to assist him in the propagation of the 
Chureh.
The first ecclesiastical district was created in Pampanga ten years after its foundation, 
while its first worship outside the Philippines was held in Honolulu, Hawii, USA in July 1968. 
This signaled the beginnings of its expansion all over the world.
After a century since its foundation, the INC membership now comprises 110 
nationalities living in 100 eountries and territories in all the continents in the world. Aside from 
the United States of America where it has a strong presenee the Chureh also has existing active 
eongregations in Cuba, Mexieo, Aruba, England, Italy, Israel, South Afriea and the Southeast 
Asian countries of Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, Vietnam, and Malaysia, among other nations.
In the Philippines, the INC provides religious services through the 104 ecclesiastical 
districts all over the country. It is the third largest religion in the count after the Roman Catholic 
Church and Islam.
The INC faith is anchored on Jesus Christ as depicted in the Holy Bible, which the 
members integrate in their day-to-day lives. The responsibility for the Church teachings rests in a 
centralized administration that instills discipline and unity of faith and practice in accordance 
with the Bible and Church rules.
The INC emphasizes respect for human authority or the duly eonstituted government and 
directs its members to obey the laws. The INC promotes peace and order by teaching its 
members to obey rules and regulations and restriets them from joining organizations and unions 
that resort to violence and extra-judicial means to advance its causes.1
This bill seeks to declare the INC foundation every July 27 of each year as a non-working 
speeial publie holiday in order for the millions of its members, together with the Filipino people, 
to eelebrate in a more appropriate manner this milestone in the Church’s history.
Source of data on the history of the TOC and its core values : www.incmedia.org