bettergovph/raw-philippine-data huggingface dataset:
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Second Regular Session 
Senate Bill No. 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. MANNY VILLAR 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
For as many reasons as there are employers, workers who resigned or 
are terminated are not issued certification of employment. The present rules of 
the Labor Code ordain the issuance of such certification when it promulgates 
thus: 
“SECTION 10. Certification of Employment. - A dismissed 
worker shall be entitled to receive on request, certificate from the 
employer specifying the dates of his engagement and termination 
of his employment and the type or types of work on which he is 
employed.” (Section I O ,  Rule XIV, Book V, Rules to Implement 
the Labor Code). 
Experience has made it abundantly clear however that the above-quoted 
rule is honored more in its breach than in ,its observance. 
This Bill seeks to institutionalize this employment certification requirement 
by legislating the abovecited rule thereby doing away any question as to its 
legality and by providing a penal sanction for its violation. 
Passage of this Bill is earnestly recommended. 


THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Second Regular Session 
S E N A T E  
Senate Bill No. 
~ 
~~ 
~ 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. MANNY VILLAR 
AN ACT 
REQUIRING THE ISSUANCE OF EMPLOYMENT CERTIFICATION IN FAVOR 
OF RESIGNED OR TERMINATED EMPLOYEES AND PROVIDING 
PENALTIES FOR VIOLATION THEREFOR, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE 
THE LABOR CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES 
;J- 
Be,, enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the 
Philippines in Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. There shall be incorporated after 286 of Presidential Decree 
No. 442, as amended, otherwise known as the “Labor Code of the Philippines” a 
new Article 286-A which shall read as follows: 
“ARTICLE 286-A. CERTIFICATION OF EMPLOYMENT. - A 
RESIGNED OR SEPARATED EMPLOYEE SHALL BE ENTITLED 
TO RECEIVE AND TO BE FURNISHED, A CERTIFICATE FROM 
THE 
EMPLOYER 
SPECIFYING 
THE 
DATES 
OF 
HIS 
ENGAGEMENT AND TERMINATION OF HIS EMPLOYMENT, HIS 
LATEST SALARY AND TYPE OR TYPES OF WORK ON WHICH 
HE IS EMPLOYED.” 
SECTION 2. Any person, corporation, trust, firm, partnership, association 
or entity which refuses or fails to issue the certification required under this Act, 
shall be punished by a fine not exceeding Ten Thousand Pesos (P10,OOO.OO) 
and/or imprisonment of not less than six (6) months nor more than one (1) year. 
If the violation is committed by a corporation, trust or firm, partnership, 
association or any other entity, the penalty of imprisonment shall be imposed on 
the entity’s officer responsible therefore. 


SECTION 3. The Secretary of Labor an@ Employment shall promulgate 
the necessary rules and regulations to implement the provisions of this Act. 
SECTION 4. All laws, rules and regulations inconsistent with this Act are 
hereby repealed, amended or modified accordingly. 
SECTION 5. 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,
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS,OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Second Regular Session 
INTRODUCED BY HON. MANNY VILLAR 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Presidential Decree 1866, as amended by Republic Act 8294, 
penalizes, among other things, any person who shall unlawfully 
manufacture, deal in, acquire, dispose or possess any firearm described 
therein. This bill complements the provisions of P.D. 1866, as amended, 
by making civilly liable any legal owner of a firearm who shall fail to report 
the theft of hislher firearm. 
The purpose of this bill is to deter violation of P.D. 1866. Legal 
owners who fail to immediately report theft of their firearms unintentionally 
arm the offenders and facilitate in the latter's intended commission of 
other crimes by the use of the stolen firearms. Firearm theft is a major 
criminal problem and the legal owners thereof have the responsibility to 
prevent the commission thereof. 
Accordingly, the urgent passage of the bill is hereby recommended. 
MA"Y ""'s" 


THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Second Regular Session 
INTRODUCED BY HON. MANNY VILLAR 
AN ACT REQUIRING THE REPORTING OF THEFT OF A 
FIREARM BY THE LEGAL OWNER THEREOF AND 
PROVIDING CIVIL LIABILITY FOR VIOLATION THEREFOR 
if 
Be,,enacted 
by the Senate and House of Representatives of the 
Philippines in congress assembled: 
Section 1. Short Title. - This Act shall be known as the “Report of 
Theft of Firearm Act”. 
Section 2. (a) The legal owner of a firearm shall report 
the theft of a firearm within 72 hours to the chief law 
enforcement officer of the municipality in which the theft 
occurred. 
(b) A person who violates the provision of 
this section shall be liable to a civil penalty of not les than 
Php2,000.00 for a first offense and Php6,000.00 for a second or 
subsequent offense. 
Section 3. 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 4. 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 5. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) 
days after its publication in at least two (2) national newspapers of general 
circulation. 
Approved.
13TH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPVBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
r 
s. No. 
INTRODUCED BY HON. MANUEL B. VILLAR JR. 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Pursuant to Memorandum Circular No. 3 issued by the Minister of Justice on September 
25, 1978, service of warrants of arrests is prohibited during night time, on holidays, or on 
weekends except only in cases of a citizen’s arrest; arrest of persons made as a result of 
surveillance or entrapment operations; when a person is being arrested for subversion and other 
crimes and offenses against national security; in cases of notorious and dangerous criminals for 
whom outstanding warrants of arrest have been issued; and escapists and fugitives from justice. 
In the words of the Circular - “Warrants of arrest should be served with the most careful 
adherence to the protections which the Constitution affords the individual citizen. In particular, it 
should be constantly borne in mind that the Constitution provides that in all criminal 
prosecutions, the accused shall be presumed innocent until the contrary is proved. It likewise 
provides that no person should be deprived of liberty without due process of law.” 
“To ensure that these Constitutional protections shall not be jeopardized, utmost care 
should be observed in serving warrants of arrest. Most specifically, no arrest should be made 
during nighttime, on holidays, or on weekends except as stated. This prohibition is intended to 
avoid inconvenience on the part of the arrested person, who otherwise might find it difficult to 
post bond for his provisional liberty, or to secure the services of legal counsel while under 
detention.” 
In order to give more teeth to the Circular and to hrther strengthen the Constitutional 
safeguards against unwarranted invasions and inroads on individual liberties, it is proposed to 
embody the aforementioned prohibitions in statutory form and to provide the corresponding 
sanctions for violations thereof. 
Accordingly, it is most respectfully urged upon this august body to enact the proposed 
measure into law. 
A 
MANUEL B. VI LAR, JR. 
P 


SENATE 
INTRODUCED BY HON. MANUEL B. VILLAR JR. 
AN ACT PROHIBITING THE SERVICE OF WARRANTS OF ARRESTS IN CERTAIN 
CASES AND PROVIDING PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS THEREOF 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
assembled: 
SECTION 1. Except only in cases of citizen's arrest, arrest of persons made as a result of 
surveillance and/or entrapment operations; persons being arrested for subversion and other 
crimes and offenses against national security; notorious and dangerous criminals for whom 
outstanding warrants of arrest have been issued; and escapists and fugitives from justice, it 
is hereby prohibited to serve warrants of arrests during nighttime, on legal holidays or on 
weekends. 
SEC. 2. 
weekends shall cover the period from 12 o'clock p.m. (noon) of Friday to 6:OO p.m. of Sunday. 
SEC. 3. 
SEC. 4. 
Approved, 
Definition. - Nighttime shall cover the period from 6:OO p.m. to 6:OO a.m. and 
Any violation of the provisions of this Act shall be punished byprison correctional. 
This Act shall take effect upon approval.
. 
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
S E N A T  
S. 
Introduced by Senator S. 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The crime of illegal use of uniform or insignia has become rampant as a means 
to facilitate the commission of another crime. Oftentimes, criminals wear uniforms or 
use insignia pretending to be police officers in the perpetration of serious crimes like 
kidnapping, robbery or even murder to deceive their innocent victims. 
The Revised Penal Code provides the penalty of arrest0 mayor for this crime. 
This means that the offender faces only a possible imprisonment of one month and 
one day to six months. 
This penalty is not commensurate to the kind of offense 
committed and the damage that may be incurred by the victim, especially if the 
perpetrator is a public official. 
This bill therefore seeks to amend Article 179 by 
increasing the imposable penalty. 
Approval of this measure is highly recommended. 
c 
h, 
SERGIO R. OSMENA 111 
Senator 


THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPU 
1 
OF THE PHILIPPINE 
First Regular Session 
S E N A T E  
889 
. No. 
Introduced by Senator S. R. Qsmefia Ill 
AN ACT 
IMPOSING A STIFFER PENALTY FOR THE CRIME OF ILLEGAL USE OF 
UNIFORMS AND INSIGNIA AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE ARTICLE 179 OF 
ACT NO, 3815, AS AMENDED, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE REVISED PENAL 
CODE 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Republic of the 
Philippines in Congress assembled: 
1 
SECTION 1. Article 179 Act No. 3815, as amended, otherwise known as 
2 
3 
the Revised Penal Code, is hereby further amended to read as follows: 
“ARTICLE 179. 
Illegal use of uniforms or insignia. - The 
4 
penalty of [arresto mayor] PRlSlON CORRECCIONAL IN ITS MINIMUM 
5 
AND MEDIUM PERIODS shall be imposed upon any person who shall 
6 
publicly and improperly make use of insignia, uniforms or dress pertaining 
7 
to an office not held by such person or to a class of persons of which he 
8 
is not a member. 
9 
WHEN THE 
UNAUTHORIZED 
USE OF THE 
INSIGNIA, 
10 
UNIFORM OR DRESS OR ANY COLORABLE IMITATION THEREOF 
I 1  
FACILITATED THE COMMISSION OF ANOTHER 
CRIME, THE 
12 
PENALTY SHALL BE PRlSlON MAYOR IN ITS MINIMUM AND MEDIUM 
13 
PER IO DS. ” 
14 
SEC. 2. All laws, decrees, executive orders, rules and regulations, or 
15 
parts hereof inconsistent with the provision of this Act are hereby repealed, 
16 
amended or modified accordingly 


L 
t 
1 
2 
3 
whichever comes earlier. 
4 
Approved, 
SEC. 3. 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 
3
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
1 
5 
S.B. No. 
5 
Introduced by Senator Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Baguio City and Benguet Province have long been known as the summer capital 
and tourist haven of the Philippines respectively. During summer, one can be a witness 
to the influx of tourists, local and foreign alike, who take the 5-hour trip to enjoy the 
scenic spots up north. Needless to say, this activity contributes significantly to the 
economic proQress of the city, province and even the surrounding localities. 
Hence, the need to further develop the places into a tourist hubs. This bill seeks 
to place all government cottages and rest houses in Baguio City and Benguet province 
under the management and administration of the Department of Tourism. This will 
allow the lease and sale and/or conversion of the said cottageshest-houses in the said 
province into tourist zones, thereby giving a boost to the local tourism industry there. 
Passage of this bill is earnestly recommended. 
Senator 


THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
1 
First Regular Session 
) 
I 
SENATE 
S.B. No. 
Introduced by Senator Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada 
AN ACT 
PLACING ALL GOVERNMENT COTTAGES AND RESTHOUSES IN BAGUJO CITY 
AND BENGUET PROVINCE UNDER THE MANAGEMENT AND ADMINISTRATION 
OF THE DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM, ALLOWING THE LEASE OF THE SAME OR 
THEIR CONVERSION 
INTO TOURIST 
PLACES, SUBJECT TO CERTAIN 
RESTRICTIONS. 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. The Management and operation of existing government cottages 
and resthouses, including those owned by government-owned and controlled 
corporations which are located in Baguio and the Province of Benguet are hereby 
transferred to the Department of Tourism (DOT). 
SECTION 2. The Subject cottages and resthouses may be leased or converted 
into hotels, lodging houses or tourist places for accommodation of foreign and local 
tourist. 
SECTION 3. Within one (1) month from the approval of this Act, all government 
cottage and resthouse in Baguio City and the Province of Benguet shall Submit and 
inventory of the said assets to the DOT. 
SECTION 4. The Secretary of Tourism shall promulgate such rules and 
regulations as may be necessary to implement the provisions of this Act. 


t 
SECTION 5. All laws, executive orders and other executive issuances which 
may be inconsistent with any of the provisions of this Act are hereby repealed, amended 
or modified accordingly. 
SECTION 6. This Act shall take effect fifleen (15) days upon its approval. 
Approved.
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
First Regular Session 
Republic of the Philippines 
SENATE 
43 
S.B. No. 
33 
1 
I. 
, 
Introduced by SENATOR LUISA "LOI" P. EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
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". Likewise, paragraph 3 makes reference to the limit prescribed 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 twenty (20) years. 
This bill amends Article 867 so that it would correctly refer to Article 870. 
In view of the foregoing, early passage of this bill is earnestly requested. 
dGQ.V 
LUISA "LOI" P. JERCITO ESTRADA 
Sehator 


, , .... -..-I 
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
First Regular Session 
Republic of the Philippines 
SENATE 
S.B. No. 
&>.&.". 
4 . . ' > "  
'I 
I.. 
Introduced by SENATOR LUISA "LOP P. EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
AMENDING REPUBLIC ACT NO. 386, ALSO KNOWN AS THE CIVIL CODE OF 
THE PHILIPPINES, ARTICLE 867 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assenibled: 
Section 1. The Civil Code, Article 867, is hereby amended to read as follows: 
"Article 867. The following shall not take effect: 
Fideicommissary substitutions which are not made in an express 
manner, either by giving them this name, or imposing upon the 
fiduciary the absolute obligation to deliver the property to a second 
heir; 
Provisions which contain a perpetual prohibition to alienate, and 
even a temporary one, beyond the limit fixed in article (863) 870; 
Those which impose upon the heir the charge of paying to various 
persons successively, beyond the limit prescribed in Article (863) 
870, a certain income or pension; 
Those which leave to a person the whole or part of the hereditary 
property in order that he may apply or invest the same according 
to 
secret instiuctioiis communicated to him by the testator". 
Section 2. Separability Clause. - If any provision or part hereof, is held invalid or 
unconstitutional, the remainder of the law or the provision not otherwise affected shall 
remain valid and subsisting. 


1. ---..--- 
Section 3. Repealing Clause. - Any law, presidential decree, or issuance, 
executive order, letter of instruction, administrative order, rule or regulation contrary to, 
or inconsistent with, the provisions of this Act is hereby repealed, modified, or amended 
accordingly. 
Section 4. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its 
publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved, 
C:\precy\amendingRA3 862 122
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
SENATE 
CE ov 
S. No. 
4 
INTRODUCED BY HON. MANUEL BI VILLAR, JR. 
EXPLANATORYNOTE 
Our country's ability to sustain economic and human development depends on the 
importance we give to scientific and technological research and development activities. 
Thus, it is sad to note that while Newly Industrialized Countries (NIC's) in the region 
are allocating 3-5% of their Gross National Product for scientific and technological 
R&D, the Philippines on the average, allocates a measly 0.3% of its GNP to such 
activities. 
The EDCOM report on tertiary education in the Philippines has observed a dearth in 
research activity in the country's schools and universities. The report ascribes this to 
the absence of a national research agenda for research, as well as to the scarcity of 
resources for such activities. 
This bill therefore seeks to oblige multinational and domestic manufacturing 
corporations to allocate 1% of their net annual corporate income for scientific and 
technological R&D activities. By so proposing, it hopes to fulfill the constitutional 
provision, which mandates government to give priority to research and development 
for the country to sustain economic growth. 
In view of its benefits to the country's growth, the favorable and immediate passage of 
this bill is sought. 
MANUEL B. V 


THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
First Regular Session 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
"04 JUN 30 
TP 6 5 6  
SENATE 
/ n  
INTRODUCED BY HON. MANUEL B. VILLAR, JR. 
AN ACT 
MANDATING MULTINATIONAL AND POMESTIC MANUFACTURING 
CORPORATIONS TO ALLOCATE ONE PERCENT (1%) OF THEIR ANNUAL 
CORPORATE, INCOME FOR SCENTIFIC AND TECHNOLOGICAL 
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. This Act shall be known as the "Scientific and ?'ethnological Research and 
Development Act of 2004." 
SECTION 2. It is hereby declared the policy of the State to give priority and provide full 
support to research and development, invention, innovation and their utilization for 
human development. 
SECTION 3. In pursuit of this policy, all multinational and domestic manufacturing 
corporations are hereby mandated to allocate one percent (1%) of their net annual 
income for scientific and technological research and development. 
SECTION 4. For income tax purposes, such amount allocated by the multinational 
and domestic manufacturing corporations for scientific and technological research and 
development shall be deducted from their gross taxable income. 
SECTION 5. For purposes of this Act, the Secretaryof the Department of Science and 
Technology (DOST) is hereby required to submit a list to Congress identifying priority 
areas for research and development. 
SECTION 6. All laws, presidential decrees, orders, issuances or provisions thereof, 
inconsistent or contrary to this Act are repealed or modified accordingly. 
SECTION 7. This act shall take effect upon approval. 
Approved,
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
FIRST REGULAR SESSION 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
S E N A T E  
S.B. NO. 
,A,. * . I .  
Introduced by Senator LUISA “LOI” P. EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Constitution affirms the principle that the maintenance of 
peace and order, the protection of life, liberty and property, and the 
promotion of the general welfare are essential for the enjoyment by all 
the people of the blessings of democracy. 
Dereliction of duty by a public officer through abetting the escape 
of a prisoner, however, is both a circumvention and a negation of this 
Constitutional provision. 
In view thereof, this bill seeks to amend Article 223 of the Revised 
Penal Code by imposing penalties on any public officer who, without 
proper court order or authorization, releases a prisoner and later allows 
him to return to his detention cell, or consents to or connives in the 
escape of a prisoner under his custody or change. 
Approval of this bill is therefore earnestly requested. 
LUISA “LOI’’ 
EjERCITQ ESTRADA 
Senator 


THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
1 
FIRST REGULAR SESSION 
1 
S E N A T E  
S.B. NO. 
Introduced by Senator LUISA “LOI” P. EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
AMENDING ARTICLE NO. 223 OF THE REVISED PENAL CODE OF 
THE PHILIPPINES 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the 
Philippines in Congress assembled: 
Section 1. Article No. 223 of the Revised Penal Code is hereby 
amended to read as follows: 
“ART. 223. Conniving With or Consenting to Evasion. - Any 
public 
officer 
who, 
WITHOUT 
COURT 
ORDER 
OR 
AUTHORIZATION, SHALL RELEASE A PRISONER AND ALLOW 
HIM TO RETURN TO PRISON OR DETENTION OR shall consent to 
the escape of a prisoner in his custody or charge, shall be 
By prison correctional in its medium and maximum 
periods .and temporary special disqualifications .in. its 
maximum period to perpetual special disqualification, 
if the fugitive shall have been sentenced by final 
judgment to any penalty. 
By prison correctional in its [minimum] MAXIMUM 
period and temporary special disqualification, in case 
the fugitive shall not have been finally convicted but 


only held as a detention prisoner for any crime or 
violation of law or municipal ordinance. 
(3) 
BY PRISON MAYOR IN ITS MAXIMUM PERIOD AND 
PERPETUAL ABSOLUTE DISQUALIFICATION IN CASE 
THE PRISONER COMMITTED AN OFFENSE OUTSIDE 
THE PRISON OR DETENTION CENTER.” 
.
.
 
Section 2. Separability Clause. - If any provision, or part hereof, 
is held invalid or unconstitutional, the remainder of the law or the 
provision not otherwise affected shall remain valid and subsisting. 
Section 3. Repealing Clause. - Any law, presidential decree or 
issuance, executive order, letter of instruction, administrative order, rule 
or regulation contrary to or inconsistent with, the provisions of this Act is 
hereby repealed, modified or amended accordingly. 
Section 4. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect fifteen 
(15) days after its publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general 
circulation. 
Approved, 
GVL/tmd/gvlSB 973 FEBI bills/
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
First Regular Session 
) 
q 1  I 
A.' .j :j 
1 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
1 
/ 
S E N A T E  
S. No. 
Introduced by Senator S. R. OsmeAa 111 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
It is the right of every consumer to demand an accurate weighing method 
for the consumable goods that he buys, especially if the price of the product 
being sold is associated with its weight. This is so in the sale of meat, fish, rice, 
vegetables and many other goods. 
With regard to liquid petroleum products, the quantity of the product sold is 
measured by the gasoline pump, the calibration of which is regulated by the 
Energy Regulatory Board (ERB). Liquified petroleum gas (LPG) is sold in tanks, 
and the net weight of the tank's contents is left wholly to the dealer to distributor 
to determine. The buyer has no way of ascertaining the actual weight of the LPG 
he is buying. 
Many consumers complain that their experience with LPG gives rise to 
suspicions that the net contents of the LPG tanks do not necessarily conform to 
specifications as indicated in the tank. 
This bill proposes to protect the consumer by requiring that every dealer or 
distributor of LPG should have a weighing scale in his store or establishment in 
order to enable the customer to ascertain the real weight of the LPG. 
In view of the foregoing, early passage of this bill is earnestly requested. 
SERGIO OSMENA 111 
Senator 


, "  
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
First Regular Session 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
1 
@SI, 
1 
c I ' id\,, 
1 
~" .j 
I 
1 
2 
3 
4 
7 
8 
9 
10 
1 1  
12 
13 
14 
15 
IG 
S. No. 
. .  
Introduced by Senator S. R. Osmefia 111 
AN ACT 
REQUIRING ALL RETAILERS OF LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS (LPG) TO 
HAVE A SCALE OR WEIGHING MACHllNE IN THEIR STORES OR 
ESTABLISHMENTS AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the 
Philippines in Congress Assembled: 
SECTION 1. Every retailer of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) is required 
to have in his establishment or store one scale or weighing machine in order to 
give the buying public an opportunity to check the correctness of the weight of 
every LPG tank that they buying. 
SEC. 2. In the event that the weight is lesser than what appears to be 
indicated in the LPG tank, the price shall be correspondingly reduced by the 
seller. 
SEC. 3. Any person who shall be found guilty of violating any of the 
provisions of Section 1 and 2 of this Act shall be punished with a prison term of 
six (6) months and one (1) day plus a fine of One thousand pesos (PI ,000.00). 
SEC. 4. The Secretary of Trade and Commerce shall within thrity (30) 
days after. approval of this Act promulgate such rules and regulations as may be 
necessary to implement the provisions of this Act. 
SEC. 5. 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 
whichever comes earlier. 
Approved,
Introduced by Senator Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
In a society that adheres to freedom of speech and expression, it is a must that 
the existing laws be revised with regard to the act of libel. While a newspaperman may 
share his views publicly on controversial issues and individuals, he remains unprotected 
from the risk of imprisonment if convicted of libel. This loophole is in direct opposition of 
the freedom of speech and should therefore warrant the necessary revisions. Libel 
should therefore be decriminalized in light of protecting the right to speech and self- 
expression. 
Such an amendment loosens the restraint on the free flow if information and thus 
fosters the growth of a free and open society. Socially-relevant issues must have room 
for open debated and public discussion. 
With the decriminalization of libel, the 
safeguards on speech and expression are strengthened. 
Approval of the Bill is earnestly sought. 
IT0 ESTRADA 
Senator 


THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
1 
First Regular Session 
1 
S E N A T E  
S. B. No. 
Introduced by Senator Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada 
AN ACT 
TO ABOLISH THE PENALTY OF IMPRISONMENT IN LIBEL CASES AMENDING 
FOR THE PURPOSE ARTICLES 355 AND 360 OF ACT 
NO. 3815, AS AMENDED, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE REVISED PENAL 
CODE, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES. 
Be if enacfed by the Senate and House of Represenfafives of the Philippines on 
Congress assembled: 
Section I. Article 355 of Act No. 381 5, as amended, otherwise known as the 
Revised Penal Code, is hereby amended by adding another paragraph after the first 
paragraph thereof to read as follows: 
THE PROVISIONS OF ARTICLES 90 AND 91 TO THE CONTRARY 
NOTWITHSTANDING, THE OFFENSE AND PENALTY IMPOSED ABOVE 
SHALL PRESCRIBE IN SIX (6) MONTHS COUNTED FORM THE DATE OF 
THE FIRST PUBLICATION, AIRING OR EXHIBITION OF THE LIBELOUS 
MATERIAL. 
Section 2. 
The First and Second Paragraphs of Art. 360 of the Code are 
further amended to read as follows: 
"Art. 360. Persons liable. - [Any person who shall publish, exhibit, or 
cause the publication or exhibition of any defamation I writing or by similar 
means,] THE AUTHOR OF THE PRINTED ARTICLE OR ANY PERSON WHO 


SHALL CAUSE THE EXHIBITION OF THEATRICAL OR CINEMATOGRAPHIC 
EXHIBIT CONTNAiNlNG DEFAMATORY WORDS shall be responsible for the 
same. 
I’ 
“The editor of a book or pamphlet or the publisher, editor or business 
manager of a daily newspaper, magazine or serial publication shall be 
responsible for any defamation contained therein to the extent as if he were the 
author thereof PROVIDED DEFAMATORY ARTICLE PASSED THROUGH SAID 
PUBLISHER, EDITOR OR BUSINESS MANAGER FOR EDITING AND 
REQUIRED THE LATTER’S APPROVAL FOR PUBLICATION. 
Section 3. 
This Act shall take effect after the fifteen (15) days of following its 
publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved.
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC ) 
OF THEPHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
e 
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Introduced by Senator LUISA "LOI" P. EJEiRCITO ESTRADA 
EXLANATORY NOTE 
Prostate cancer is now one of the leading causes of death among Filipino males. 
Statistics show that about 25 percent (25%) of men afflicted with prostate cancer die 
ultimately. Patients who survive the cancer still require treatment to ease symptoms such 
as pain, bleeding and urinary obstruction. 
The American Cancer Society and the American Urological Association 
recommend that men forty (40) years or older undergo periodic testing for the early 
detection of prostate cancer. Early detection wiIl 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 to educate the public and increase 
awareness on prostate cancer. 
In view hereof, the early passage of this proposed measure is highly 
recommended. 
LUISA 
L
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P@JERCITO ESTRADA 
Senator 
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THUZTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
First Regular Session 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
S E N A T E  
S. B. No. 
Introduced by Senator LUISA “LOI” P. EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
ESTABLISHING A PROGRAM FOR PUBLIC EDUCATION ON PROSTATE 
CANCER 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
assembled: 
SECTION 1. Short Title - This Act may be cited as the “Prostate Cancer Public 
Awareness Act.” 
SECTION 2. Definition of Terms. - For purposes of this Act, the term - 
(a) 
“Director” means the Director of the Non-Communicable Disease 
Control Service of the Department of Health. 
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SECTION 3. 
Establishment of Program for &blk Education on Prostate 
Cancer. - The Director shall carry out a program on prostate cancer. Through the 
program, he shall conduct or support activities - 
(a) 
to educate males who are forty (40) years of age or older on the 
need to periodically undergo physical examinations for such 
cancer, including education on the frequency and type of such 
2 


examination that are appropriate for various age groups of such 
men; and 
to educate males on the availability and appropriateness of 
procedures for detecting the cancer in its early stages, including the 
(b) 
procedure known as prostate ultrasound. 
.. . 
. 
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. 
$EC.TION 5. Repealing Clause. - Any law, presidential decree or issuance, 
executive order, letter of instruction, administrative order, rule or regulation contrary to 
or inconsistent with, the provisions of this Act is hereby repealed, modified or amended 
accordingly. 
SECTION 6. Effectivity Clause - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days 
after its publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved 
GWslee bills 11 vioetbroste cancer public awareness 
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THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
First Regular Session 
1 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
E1V 
Introduced by Senator LUISA “LOI” P. WERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Family Code, Art. 111, provides that, a “spouse of age” has 
the right to dispose exclusive properties without the consent of the other 
spouse. This provision is superfluous. Art. 234 as amended by R A. No. 
6908 lowered the age of majority to eighteen (18) years, which of the age 
of emancipation and the age when a person may legally enter into a 
contract of marriage The Family Code, Art. 236 provides that 
“emancipation shall terminate parental authority over the person and 
property of the child who shall then be qualified and responsible for all 
acts of civil life, save the exceptions established by existing laws in 
special cases”. 
This bill replaces the term “spouse of age” with the more accurate 
term “either spouse,” since a spouse must necessarily be of age. 
Hence, the immediate passage of this bill is earnestly sought. 
LUISA “LOP P . ~ E R C I T O  ESTRADA 
Senator 


THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
First Regular Session 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
SENATE . * 
S.B. No. 
Introduced by Senator LUISA “LOI” P. EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AM ACT 
AMENDING EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 209 ALSO KNOWN AS THE 
FAMILY CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES, ARTICLE I11 
Be it enueted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the 
Philippines in Congress assembled: 
Section 1. The Family Code, Article 111 is hereby amended to read 
as follows: 
“Art 111. 
(A spouse of age) EITHER 
SPOUSE may mortgage, encumber alienate or 
otherwise dispose of his or her exclusive 
property (, without the consent of the other 
spouse and appear alone in court to litigate with 
regard to the same.) 
Section 2. Separability Clause. - If any provision or part hereof 
is held invalid or unconstitutional, the remainder of the law or the 
provision not otherwise affected shall remain valid and subsisting. 
Section 3. Repealing Clause. - Any law, presidential decree or 
issuance, executive order, letter of instruction, administrative order, rule 
or regulation contrary to, or inconsistent with, the provisions of this Act 
is hereby repealed, modified, or amended accordingly. 


Section 4. EffectMty Clause. - This Act shall take effect fifteen 
(15) days after its publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general 
circulation. 
Approved. 
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THIRTEENTH CONGRES 
PU 
1 
OF THE PHILIPPINE 
) 
First Regular Session 
T 
Introduced by Senator S. R. OsmeAa 111 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The right to education is enshrined in the Philippine Constitution. This is the 
principle underlying the government’s public school system where elementary and 
secondary education is offered for free to all citizens. 
However not all children can be accommodate in the country’s public schools. 
And the cost of education includes many items other than tuition fees. It includes the 
cost of transportation, meals taken in school, clothing, books, and school supplies, 
which parents have to provide with no assistance from the government. 
This bill proposes to allow deductions from taxable income equal to twice the 
amount spent for tuition fee expenses per child but not to exceed P20,000, in order to 
encourage parents especially among low income families to send their children to 
school. 
’ 
In view of the foregoing, early passage of this bill is earnestly requested. 
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SERGIO OSMENA 111 
Senator 


THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPU 
1 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
1 
First Regular Session 
) 
Introduced by Senator S. R. Osmeiia Ill 
AN ACT 
GRANTING A DOUBLE DEDUCTION FOR TUITION FEE EXPENSES INCURRED 
AND FOR THIS PURPOSE AMENDING SECTION 34, CHAPTER VI1 OF REPUBLIC 
ACT NUMBERED 8424 OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE “TAX REFORM ACT OF 
1997” 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Republic of the 
Philippines in Congress assembled: 
I 
SECTION I. Section 34, Chapter VI1 of Republic Act numbered eight 
2 
thousand four hundred and twenty four, otherwise known as the Tax Reform 
3 
Act of 1997 is hereby amended to read as follows: 
4 
“Section 34. 
Deductions from Gross Income. - Except for 
5 
taxpapers earning compensation income arising from personal services 
6 
rendered under an employer-employee relationship where no deductions 
7 
shall be allowed under this Section other than under Subsections (M) 
8 
and (N) hereof. In computing taxable income subject to income tax under 
9 
Section 24(A); 25(A); 26; 27(A), (B) and (C) and 28(A)(1), there shall be 
I O  
allowed the following deductions from gross income:” 
11 
xxxx 
12 
“(N) TUITION FEE. - A MARRIED INDIVIDUAL OR A HEAD OF 
13 
THE FAMILY SHALL FURTHER BE ALLOWED A DEDUCTION EQUAL 
14 
TO TWO TIMES THE AMOUNT SPENT, BUT IN NO CASE TO EXCEED 
15 
TWENTY 
THOUSAND 
PESOS 
(P20,000), 
FOR TUITION 
FEE 
1 


1 
EXPENSES PER CHILD IF THE LATTER IS ENTIRELY DEPENDENT 
2 
ON THE MARRIED INDIVIDUAL OR HEAD OF THE FAMILY FOR 
3 
SUPPORT; OR THE SAME SHALL BE ALLOWED THE JNDJVJDUAL IF 
4 
THE LATTER IS A WORKING STUDENT. 
5 
xxx 
6 
SEC. 2. Effectivity. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its 
7 
publication 
in 
two 
(2) 
leading 
newspapers 
of 
national 
circulation. 
Approved, 
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THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
.- 
INTRODUCED BY HON. MANUEL B. VILLAR, JR. 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Deregulation and the eventual phase-out the regulatory functions of the POEA 
are matters that cannot be enclosed with a fmed time frame but can only be 
undertaken cautiously and progressively taking into consideration the 
circumstances and changes in the industry. 
The continuing rise of employment intermediaries worldwide, the present State 
of our economy and the emerging circumstances that affect the welfare of 
migrant workers tend to impede the progress of deregulation. Factors such as 
the consistent increase in the number of OFWs, welfare cases and recruitment 
violations as well as the seeming indifference of host countries to enter into 
bilateral labor agreement for the protection of OFWs must also be taken into 
consideration in the formulation of policy on overseas employment. 
Approval of this bill is thus, earnestly sought. 


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THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
INTRODUCED BY HON. MANUEL B. VILLAR, JR. 
AN ACT 
AMENDING SECTIONS 29 AND 30 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8042 
OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE MIGRANT WORKERS AND OVERSEAS 
FILIPINO ACT OF 1995 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
assembled: 
SECTION 1. Section 29 of Republic Act No. 8042 is hereby amended to read as 
follows: 
"Sec. 29. Comprehensive Deregulation [Plan] on Recruitment 
Activities. -(Pursuant to a progressive policy of deregulation whereby, the 
migration of workers becomes strictly a matter between the worker and 
his foreign employer,] The DOLE [within one (1) year front the effectivity 
of this Act] is hereby mandated to formulate] UNDERTAKE a [five-year] 
comprehensive deregulation [plan on] OF recruitment activities taking 
into account labor market trends, economic conditions of the county and 
emerging circumstances which stay affect the welfare of migrant 
workers. 
I' 
SECTION 2. Section 30 of Republic Act No. 8042 is hereby amended to read as 
follows: 
"Sec. 30. [Gradual Phase-out] STREAMLINING of regulatory functions- 
(Within a period of five (5) years from the effectivity of this Act,) The 
DOLE shall [phase-out] STREAMLINE the regulatory functions of the 
POEA pursuant to the objectives of deregulation. 'I 
SECTION 3.Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its 
publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
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I .  
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 1 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
I 
First Regular Session 
1 
CRhT A TE 
U Y . L . L  1 1  Y 
Senate Rill N o  
Introduced by Senator Lacson 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The propose bill puts into implementation the basic law of the land, 
thus: 
"The state shall establish, maintain and support a 
complete, adequate and integrated system of education 
relevant to the people and society." (Sec. 2 [l], Art. 
XIV, 1987 Constitution). 
In this era of advanced science and technology , more and more 
countries rely on the facility of computer technology in their respective 
developmental pursuits. Computer literacy/knowledge has now evolved 
from a matter of fad to absolute necessity in the real world. 
In every profession or business centers, demands for computer- 
proficient personnel have been increasing in tremendous proportions. 
Considering these changing times towards the advancement of science and 
technology, there is an imperative need for us to meet and adapt to these 
demands. 
Now, more than ever, is the time to train our children the technology 
of the future. We must prepare them for the vicious battle for survival in 
the next decades to come by providing them a legacy of a stable 
educational foundation lest we deem to be oblivious and unconcerned on 
the future of our children, the leaders of tomorrow. The mandatory 
instruction of computer in the elementary and secondary level of education 
is the first step toward this direction. 
Considering the foregoing reasons, the passage of this bill is 
earnestly requested. 
ig 
enator 


THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC I 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
1 
First Regular Session 
I 
SENATE 
Senate BiIl No. __ 
Introduced by Senator Lacson 
AN ACT 
TO INCLUDE THE TEACHING OF COMPUTER AS PART OF THE 
ELEMETARY AND HIGH SCHOOL CURRICULA, BOTH IN PUBLIC 
AND PRIVATE SCHOOLS 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House df Representatives of the 
Phi Zippines in Congress assemb Zed: 
SECTION 1. The teaching of computer is hereby made compulsory 
and shall be included as an additional subject for all students in elementary 
and high school both in public and private schools. 
SEC. 2. The Department of Education shall promulgate the necessary 
rules and regulations to implement this Act. 
SEC. 3. This Act shall take effect upon its approval. 
Approved ,
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THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
INTRODUCED BY HON. MANUEL B. VILLAR, JR. 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Land Transportation Office was created primarily to rationalize the land 
transportation service and facilities and to implement effectively the various 
transportation laws, rules and regulations. As the agency in charge of registering all 
motor vehicles, the LTO plays a crucial role in reducing the incidence of car napping. 
Unfortunately, due to the laxity of some LTO personnel in registering motor 
vehicles, even stolen ones are easily registered. 
In order to make LTQ personnel more conscientious in the registration of 
vehicles, the bill proposes the punishment of any officer or employee of LTO who will 
register any stolen motor vehicle. 
With this measure, it is hoped that the incidence of such crime will be reduced. 


THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
INTRODUCED BY HON. MANUEL B. VILLAR, JR. 
AN ACT 
PUNISHING ANY OFFICER OR EMPLOYEE OF THE LAND TRANSPORTATION 
OFFICE WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR REGISTERING STOLEN MOTOR VEHICLE, 
INSERTING FOR THE PURPOSE, A NEW SECTION BETWEEN SECTIONS 
HUNDRED THIRTY SIX. 
FIFTYSEVEN AND FIFTY-EIGHT OF REPUBLIC ACT NUMBERED FORTY-ONE 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
assembled: 
SECTION 
1. 
A new section, to be known as Section fifty-seven-A (57-A), 
is hereby inserted between Section fifty-seven (57) and fifty-eight (58) of Republic Act 
Numbered 
Forty-one 
thirty-six (RA 4136), otherwise 
known as the Land 
Transportation and Traffke Code, to read as follows: 
"SECTION. 57-A. ANY OFFICER OR EMPLOYEE OF THE LAND 
TRANSPORTATION 
OFFICE 
WHO 
IS 
RESPONSIBLE 
FOR 
THE 
REGISTRATION OF A STOLEN VEHICLE SHALL BE PUNISHED BY A 
FINE EQUIVALENT TO THE MARKET VALUE OF THE STOLEN MOTOR 
VEHICLE REGISTERED OR IMPRISONMENT OF AT LEAST ONE YEAR, 
OR BOTH. IN ADDITION THERETO, IF FOUND GUILTY, SUCH OFFICER 
OR EMPLOYEE SHALL BE DISMISSED FROM THE SERVICE WITH 
PREJUDICE 
TO REINSTATEMENT OR 
REEMPLOYMENT IN 
THE 
GOVERNMENT SERVICE AND THAT ALL BENEFITS OR PRIVILEGES HE 
MAY BE ENTITLED SHALL BE FORFEITED." 
SECTION 2. Any provision of law, decree, executive order, rule or regulation in 
conflict or inconsistent with the provision of this Act are accordingly repealed, 
amended or modified. 
SECTION 
3. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days from the date of its 
publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
"04 JUN 30 PTO 105 
SENATE 
S. No. 
INTRODUCED BY HON. MANUEL B. VILLAR. JR. 
EXPLANATORY NQTE 
In light of the recent events where we have seen cases of so-called witnesses 
coming out and issuing affidavits or statements under oath accusing certain 
personalities of committing high profile crimes, only to retract and deny the 
veracity of their accusations in the middle of the investigation, this bill is very 
timely. 
This bill seeks to impose a higher penalty for the issuance of untruthful 
statements under oath, especially those committed in the course of an 
investigation. 
To deter those that will make a mockery out of our justice system and to 
preserve the integrity of the tribunal, approval of this bill is earnestly sought. 
MANUEL B. V LLAR, JR. 
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THIRTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
~~~ 
30 ~~:~~ 
SENATE 
S .  No. 
INTRODUCED BY HON. MANUEL B. VILLAR, JR. 
AN ACT 
AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE ARTICLE 183 OF ACT NO. 3815, AS AMENDED, 
OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE REVISED PENAL CODE AND FOR OTHER 
PURPOSES 
IMPOSING A HIGHER PENALTY FOR THE CRIME OF PERJURY, 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress 
, 
assembled: 
SECTION 1. Article 183 of the Revised Penal Code is hereby amended to read as 
follows: 
"ART. 183. False Testimony in other cases and perjury in solemn 
affirmation - The penalty of [arresto mayor in its medium period to 
prision correctional in its minimum period) PRISION MAYOR IN ITS 
MINIMUM PERIOD TO PRISION MAYOR IN ITS MEDIUM PERIOD shall be 
imposed upon any person who, knowingly making untruthful statements 
and not being included in the provisions of the next preceding articles, 
shall testify under oath, or make an affidavit, upon any material matter 
before a competent person authorized to administer an oath in cases in 
which the law so requires. 
Any person who, in case of a solemn affirmation made in lieu of an 
oath, shall commit any falsehoods mentioned in this and the three 
preceding articles of this section, shall suffer the respective penalties 
provided therein." 
SECTION 2. Repealing Clause. - All laws, decrees, executive orders, rules and 
regulations, or any part thereof inconsistent herewith are deemed repealed or modified 
accordingly. 
SECTION 3. Effectivity. - This law shall take effect upon its approval and 
publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,