bettergovph/raw-philippine-data huggingface dataset:
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
Senate Bill N o.____ ^  
6
TIME;
eiLLS A (iNBBX
Introduced by SEN. ANA THERESIA “RISAM HONTIVEROS BARAQUEL
AN ACT
STRENGTHENING THE PHILIPPINE COMPREHENSIVE POLICY ON 
HUMAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS (HIV) AND ACQUIRED IMMUNE 
DEFICIENCY SYNDROME (AIDS) PREVENTION, TREATMENT, CARE, AND 
SUPPORT, AND ESTABLISHING THE PHILIPPINE NATIONAL HIV AND AIDS 
PLAN, REPEALING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8504, 
OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE “PHILIPPINE AIDS PREVENTION AND 
CONTROL ACT OF 1998,” AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR.
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The unprecedented rise in HIV cases in the Phihppines presents a grave public health threat that 
requires urgent action. From 6,015 total cases in 2010, the number rose to a total of 33,419 
during the first quarter of 2016. While this still reflects a low prevalence rate for a country of 100 
milhon people, the rapid increase in the last six years reflects an alarming landscape: how the 
epidemic is expanding in urban centers of the country, affecting disproportionately populations 
and commumties that are marginalised and vulnerable: young Filipinos; gay and bisexual men; 
transgender people; and people who use drugs.
With the current status of the Phihppine response to HIV, it is likely for these concentrated 
epidemics to continue to rise and jump over to the general population. Coverage of HIV testing, 
especially for populations that need them, remains low, and about 1 out of 2 Filipinos living with 
HIV is aware of their HIV status. A third of those infected with HIV have no access to 
lifesaving treatment, which can only mean that HIV-related deaths are also increasing and that 
those who are unaware of their status are also infecting others. Despite the fact tliat a vast 
majority of HIV new cases have been contracted through sexual transmission, evidence-based 
interventions to promote safer sex practices have been minimal.
The cost of a business-as-usual response will be damaging to public health. Based on 
Department of Health estimates, if no improvement is done in the HIV response, the number of 
Filipinos living with HIV will reach 133,000 by 2022, and baUoon to 336,000 by 2030. This will 
require a bigger public health expenditure, both to guarantee access to HIV treatment and to
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES ) 
First Regular Session )
SENATE
SENATE BILL NO. _157
j. tH E  
o » THE
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1
BY:
J-yf^
BILLS & i^OEX
INTRODUCED BY SENATOR JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO
AN ACT EXPANDING THE USE OF THE LEGAL ASSISTANCE FUND, 
AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SECTION 26 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8042, 
OTHERWISE KNOWN AS "THE MIGRANT WORKERS AND OVERSEAS 
FILIPINOS ACT OF 1995", AS AMENDED
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The 1987 Philippine Constitution, Article XIII, Section 3 thereof, states that:
The State shall afford full protection to labor, local and overseas, 
organized and unorganized, and promote full employment and equality of 
employment opportunities for all.
Furthermore, under Article II, Section 18, to wit:
The State affirms labor as a primary social economic force. It shall 
protect the rights of workers and promote their welfare.
According to the latest survey by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) covering 
the period of April to September 2015, the number of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) 
who worked abroad was estimated at 2.4 million, 97.1% of which are Overseas Contract 
Workers (OCWs) or those with existing work contract.1
Despite the number of our OFWs and while we recognize the significant contribution 
of OFWs to the national economy through their foreign exchange remittances, the protection 
to our Filipino migrant workers remains inadequate.
Republic Act No. 8042 (R.A. 8042), also known as the "Migrant Workers and 
Overseas Filipinos Act of 1995", was enacted to protect and promote the rights and welfare 
of Filipino migrant workers which was later on amended by Republic Act 10022. This Act 
avers the establishment of the Legal Assistance Fund for migrant workers.
‘ h ttp s ;/ /p s a .g o v . p h / c o n t e n t / t o t a l- n u m b e r - o f w s - e s t lm a t e d - 2 4 - m lllio n - r e s u lt s - 2 0 1 5 - s u r v e Y - o v e r s e a s - f llip ln o s - 0
P .1 p c I 1
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E  
S.B. No. 
2
T HE p
t i m e :
b y : ____
V BILLS
In tro d u ced  by SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA
AN ACT DECLARING PROTECTED AREAS AND PROVIDING FOR THEIR 
MANAGEMENT. AMENDING FOR THIS PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7586, 
OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE NATIONAL INTEGRATED PROTECTED AREAS 
SYSTEM (NIPAS) ACT OF 1992, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
Explanatory Note
The Philippines is one of seventeen (17) megadiverse countries which together 
host 70-80% of the world's life forms and is believed to hcirbor more diversity of 
life than any other country on earth on a per hectare basis. Unfortunately, the 
country is losing its biodiversity at an unprecedented scale.
Article Xll, Section 4 of the 1987 Constitution states that "[tjhe Congress shall, 
as soon as possible, determine, by law, the specific limits of forest lands and 
national parks, marking clearly their boundaries on the ground."
To this end. Republic Act No. 7586, otherwise known as the "National Integrated 
Protected Areas System (NIPAS) Act of 1992" or the NIPAS Act, was passed 
establishing a system of protected areas within the classification of national park 
as provided for in the Constitution. The system consists of all areas or islands in 
the Philippines proclaimed, designated or set aside, pursuant to a law, 
presidential decree, presidential proclamation or executive order as national 
park, game refuge, bird and wildlife sanctuary, wilderness area, strict nature 
reserve, watershed, mangrove reserve, fish sanctuaiy, natural and historical 
landmark, protected and managed landscape/seascape as well as identified 
virgin forests before the effectivity of the NIPAS Act.
The NIPAS Act also provides for integration of additional areas into the System 
through a lengthy and careful inclusion procedure. This includes the conduct of 
suitability assessments, publication and public hearings, which then leads to 
the issuance of a Presidential proclamation and culminates in the final 
declaration and classification of the land by Congress as a national park.
Since 1992, 113 have been declared through Presidential proclamations as 
protected areas under the NIPAS. However, only thirteen (13) protected areas 
have finally proceeded to be legislated as such in the more them twenty (20) years 
since the NIPAS Act was enacted. It is imperative that proclaimed protected areas 
after the effectivity of the Act are finally declared as such through Congressional 
fiat as required by the NIPAS Act and pursuant to the directive of the 
Constitution.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E
S.B.No. 238
TIME:
BILLS & r INDEX
Introduced by SENATOR GREGORIO B. HONASAN II
AN ACT
REPEALING THE MINIMUM HEIGHT REQUIREMENT FOR APPLICANTS TO 
THE PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE (PNP), THE BUREAU OF FIRE 
PROTECTION (BFP), AND THE BUREAU OF JAIL MANAGEMENT AND 
PENOLOGY (BJMP)
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Article 7 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights proclaims that:
“All are equal before the law and are entitled without any discrimination to 
equal protection of the law. All are entitled to equal protection against any 
discrimination in violation of this Declaration and against any incitement to 
such discrimination.”
For the same purpose, Section 1, Article XIII of our Constitution on Social Justice 
and Human Rights states that:
“The Congress shall give highest priority to the enactment of measures that 
protect and enhance the riglit of all the people to human dignity, reduce social, 
economic, and political inequalities, and remove cultural inequities by 
equitably diffusing wealth and political power for the common good.”
Furthennore, Section 3 Article XIII thereof states that:
“The State shall afford full protection to labor, local and overseas, organized 
and unorganized, and promote full employment and equality of employment 
opportunities for all.”
While the Philippine constitution affinns the principles of employment nondiscrimination, 
heightism or discrimination based on height is a reality today that has been practiced among 
law enforcement agencies in the country, evidently oblivious to the fact that Napoleon's 
"altitude problem" was neither a hindrance to his perfonnance as a general nor a drawback 
to the feat of Asians who have proven their worth in war and peace though they may be 
shorter than their Western counterparts. Still, we unwittingly practice discrimination against 
our own.
Although measures are being taken to correct the situation by the issuance of waivers by the 
National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), the stigma of heightism still 
apparently hovers over the hiring process of the Philippine National Police (PNP), the 
Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) 
to the disadvantage of people who have grown closer to the earth.
Adversely affected by the height restrictions are certain Indigenous Filipinos. It is an 
anthropological fact that Indigenous Filipinos who have successfully resisted colonization 
have genetic make-ups different from their brothers and sisters who have for centuries 
interacted with foreigners. The social prejudice extends beyond the issue of height. Certainly
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC }
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
}
First Regular Session 
}
S E N A T E
S.B.No. 
260
d a t e >JUL
BILLS
NDEX
Introduced by SENATOR LACSON
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The passage of Republic Act Number 6975, otherwise known as "An 
Act Establishing the Philippine National Police (PNP) Under a Reorganized 
Department of the Interior and Local Government and for Other Purposes," 
has introduced significant changes in the organization of the country's 
police force.
Prior to the passage of the said law, control and supervision over the 
country's police force, firemen and jail guards fell under the shoulders of 
the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). 
Under R.A. No. 6975, the 
Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) is given the power 
of supervision and control over the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) and the 
Bureau of Jail Management Penology (BJMP), while the National Police 
Commission (NAPOLCOM) exercises administrative control and supervision 
over the PNP. Meanwhile, the power to supervise the affairs of the AFP 
remains with the Department of National Defense (DND).
In 
light 
of 
the 
meaningful 
reforms 
brought 
about 
by 
the 
implementation of R.A. No. 6975, it has become imperative for the Congress 
of the Philippines to likewise introduce corresponding amendments to 
existing laws affecting the country's police organization. One of these laws 
is R.A. No. 6963, otherwise known as "An Act Granting Special Financial 
Assistance and Benefits to the Family of Beneficiary of any Police or 
Military Personnel or Firemen Killed or Permanently Incapacitated while in 
the Performance of His Duty or by Reason of his Office or Position, and for 
Other Purposes" which seeks to grant financial assistance to members of the 
military and police as well as firemen killed or permanently incapacitated in 
the line of duty.
Under R.A. No. 6963, the AFP and BFP share in the allocation of 
funds from the license fees of firearms collected by the PC-INP Firearms 
and Explosives Office (FEO) to support the educational program of their 
dependents. This arrangement was feasible at the time because the police 
was still under the AFP. But when R.A. No. 6975 was enacted, it resulted in 
the creation of a PNP separate from the AFP and BFP. It becomes logical 
therefore that the proceeds of the fees collected by the PNP through the FEO 
should redound solely to its benefits. Besides, the strength of the PNP is 
almost equal to that of the AFP and therefore, the amount generated out of 
the proceeds of the license fees will just be enough to support the needs of 
the PNP. Additionally, the AFP and the BFP have their own funding sources
V-i
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S.B.No. 
B 8 9
etuue
of fhi'p"’ •■rrrl.ii y
’16 JUL 20 P4 ^)4
R L ' i ' !  ■'
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT RATIONALIZING THE TAXES IMPOSED ON NON-LIFE INSURANCE POLICIES, 
AMENDING FOR THIS PURPOSE SECTIONS 108,123,184, AND 185 OF THE NATIONAL 
INTERNAL REVENUE CODE OF 1997, AS AMENDED
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Water-logged vehicles, homes swallowed by the earth, valuables blown over and 
washed away - these are scenes from the various calamities experienced by Filipinos over 
the past years.
From Ondoy in Metro Manila to the 7.2 magnitude earthquake in Bohol and super­
typhoon Yolanda in Leyte, what Filipino families had spent decades working for was taken 
away and families without the protection of insurance had no recourse but to begin again 
from scratch.
Non-life insurance policies in the Philippines bear a value-added tax (VAT) of 12% 
amongst an array of other taxes, such as documentary stamps, fire service and local 
government taxes bringing the total tax burden to 27.2% per policy. In comparison, life 
insurance policies carry only 2% VAT after enjoying a 5% reduction thanks to RA 10001.
The prohibitively high taxation rates on non-life insurance have caused Filipino 
consumers and businesses alike to shy away from this key necessity, placing their hard- 
earned investments at risk in our disaster-prone nation.
In order to empower our citizens and local businesses to protect hard earned assets 
and encourage more Filipinos to think long-term, we must pursue the reduction of taxes for 
non-life insurance policies in the country.
What's more, as the Philippines enters the ASEAN Integrated Economic Zone, we 
have a responsibility to strengthen local industries, including our insurance sector who will 
be contending with foreign competitors who offer non-life insurance policies at 0.4-7% VAT.
This measure will not only safeguard the valued possessions of our hardworking 
countrymen; it won't Just shield businesses from the risk of failure after catastrophes
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
ifi TIME:
BILLS &
Senate Bill No. 319
introduced by Senator Cynthia A. Villar
AN ACT ESTABLISHING A NATIONAL PROGRAM FOR THE MALUNGGAY 
INDUSTRY, APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Moringa oleifera, or most commonly known as Malunggay, is usually, found in 
the backyards of most Filipino homes. Grown, with little to no maintenance, his has 
taken the moniker, “The Miracle Tree”, because all of its parts including leaves, pods, 
bark, seeds, fruits and roots have nutritional and healing properties.
Nearly all may assume that Malunggay is not at par with other vegetables, but 
many will be surprised of its versatility and capacity to contribute not only in feeding 
hungering mouths but also in revitalizing and strengthening people’s physical well-being 
and socio-economic development.
Malunggay is a source of vitamins A and C, calcium, potassium, protein, and 
zinc, needed by children and adults alike. In the Philippines, Malunggay’s leaves are 
customarily used in chicken soup and fish courses. Nowadays, Filipinos venture into the 
practice of adding these leaves to pastries and pasta dishes. Even its roots and seeds 
are used as seasoning.
Malunggay si further known to produce the most natural oil and is used in 
cooking and making salad. Its quality is being compared with olive oil.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES ) 
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s. No. 
513
*  
( § i f i r t  o f t f lc P ''‘f rrl."C|J
■16 
.11119 
P 2 1 2
1 
;'V: mY;
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
CREATING 
THE 
NATIONAL 
LIVELIHOOD 
DEVELOPMENT 
COUNCIL 
THEREBY INSTITUTIONALIZING THE LIVELIHOOD MOVEMENT OF THE 
PHILIPPINES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Article II, Section 9 of the Constitution affirms that the State shall promote a just and 
dynamic social order that will ensure the prosperity and independence of the nation and free 
the people from poverty through policies that provide adequate social services, promote full 
employment, a rising standard of living, and an improved quality of life for all.
The present socio-economic condition of our country however, runs counter to the aforesaid 
policy of the State. As compared with neighboring Southeast Asian countries, the gap 
between the rich and the poor is most pronounced in the Philippines based on a study 
conducted in 2011.1 The study noted that the Philippines registered a Gini coefficient of 44 
percent last year, higher than Thailand's 42.5 percent, Indonesia's 39.4 percent, Malaysia's 
37.9 percent and Vietnam's 37.8 percent.2
Recent reports have shown that despite positive gains, economic growth has been inequitable 
across sectors of the economy and poverty in the Philippines has actually increased since 
2003. In 2009, 26.5% of the population in the country was living in poverty, which equates to 
23.14 million people.3
Although there have been efforts to address the crisis of poverty through livelihood programs 
with the direct involvement of government agencies and institutions, many problems still 
persist. Lack of coordination among these agencies and wasteful duplication of efforts and 
initiatives are most prominent of these problems.
1 Study conducted by research and advisory firm Starbase Research Institute. Information retrieved from 
http://business.inquirer.net/8377/philippines-leads-in-income-inequality-in-asean-says-study on 2 June 2013.
2 Ibid. The global ranking was prepared by international group Vision of Humanity using the Gini coefficient, a 
measure of the inequality of a distribution, as the basis.
3 Information retrieved from http://ausaid.gov.au/countries/eastasia/philippines/Pages/why-aid.aspx on 2 June 
2013.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
of Ihr.^f f n
'16 
JUL21 
P 2 : 2 7
SENATE
s. No. 814
H 1 ■< t .
t,Y:
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto
AN ACT
CREATING THE SPECIAL MASS TRANSIT SYSTEM SUPPORT FUND TO 
PROVIDE ADDITIONAL AND LONG-TERM FUNDING TO PRIORITY MASS 
TRANSIT PROJECTS 
IN THE 
GREATER METRO 
MANILA AREA, 
AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SECTIONS 7 AND 8 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 
8794, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE “MOTOR VEHICLE USER’S CHARGE 
ACT OF 2000”
Explanatory Note
The Philippine transport system relies heavily on the road network which handles 
approximately ninety percent (90%) of passenger movement and fifty percent (50%) of 
freight movement,1 serving priority production areas and population centers.
According to the 2015 Census of Population, 90.88 Million (90%) of our 100.98 
Million population constitute the riding public.2 On the other hand, the total number of 
motor vehicles registered with the Land Transportation Office (LTO) in 2014 reached 
8.08 Million, of which 912,584 (11%)3 are public utility vehicles.
Of the country’s 18 administrative regions, the National Capital Region (NCR) is 
the smallest with a land area of 619.5 sq. km. but has the second largest population with 
12.88 million or 20,791 persons per square kilometer.4 Together with its neighboring 
provinces in Central Luzon and CALABARZON, these account for about 38.1 percent of 
the country’s population.
The modal choice of Metropolitan Manila’s growing population with a growth 
rate of 1.78%, the 2.22 million registered motor vehicles, road works, flooding from 
heavy rains, vehicle breakdowns and road crashes make its roads notorious in traffic 
congestion. Traffic congestion in Metro Manila is not just a daily annoyance that 
Filipinos have to endure, it also cost us almost P900 billion in 2015, about six times more 
than the estimated P137.5 billion cost in 2011.5
National Center for Transportation Studies (NCTS) Director Jose Regin Regidor 
said in his study that the government should continue investing in infrastructure
1 National Economic and Development Authority, NEDA MTPDP 2004-2010 Chapter 6: Infrastructure 
(2004)”
http://www.neda.gov.ph/plans and reports/MTPDP/Updated MTPDP%202004%20to%202010.Ddf
2 Philippine Statistics Authority -  National Capital Region, “NCR in Figures”, http://www.nso-ncr.ph/ 
(accessed 6 June 2016)
3 Land Transportation Office. Annual Report 2014. 03 February 2015.
4 National Statisties Office, “Highlights of the Philippine Population 2015 Census of Population, May 19, 
2016”, https://www.psa.gov.ph/content/highlights-philippine-population-2015-census-population
5 Rey Gamboa. “Make Dream Plan 2030 a Reality”,
http://www.philstar.eom/business/2016/02/09/1551065/make-dream-plan-2030-realitv (accessed 14 June 
2016)
r
> 
•
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s.fio. 
63
BILLS &
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto
AN ACT
INCREASING PENSIONS UNDER THE SOCIAL SECURITY SYSTEM AND 
RATIONALIZING THE POWERS, DUTIES AND ACCOUNTABILITIES OF THE 
SOCIAL SECURITY COMMISSION, FURTHER AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE 
REPUBLIC ACT NO. 1161, AS AMENDED, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE “SOCIAL 
SECURITY LAW”
Explanatory Note
In the spirit of soeial justice, the State is mandated to establish, develop, and promote a 
suitable, sound and viable social security service that will protect covered employees and their 
families from the hazards and burden of disability, sickness, old age and death.
As of 2015, there are about 1.9 million pensioners benefiting from the Social Security 
System (SSS). In accordance with Section 12(b) of R.A. No. 8282, a minimum monthly pension 
of PI,200.00 shall be provided to those with at least ten (10) creditable years of service and 
P2,400.00 to those with at least twenty (20) years of creditable years of serviee. Those who have 
retired under the previous SSS Law are receiving even smaller amounts of monthly pension.
Considering the escalating cost of living, the meager amount of monthly pension that the 
SSS pensioners receive is no longer adequate to support even their basie needs. It is an 
unfortunate reality that the monthly pension from SSS has become insufficient for the monthly 
food sustenanee and maintenance medicines of pensioners who are old and mostly suffering 
from various medieal conditions. Without appropriate and immediate intervention, the SSS 
would fail in its role to provide basie economic security for the people, curb poverty, provide 
economic stability, redistribute income and preserve important social and individual values1.
Consequently, an effective soeial security protection will depend significantly on a robust 
financial capacity, extensive membership, and sustainability of benefits vis-a-vis revenues. As 
such, a sound intervention would include addressing two crucial concerns that adversely affect 
the SSS fund life and put the future of the social security at risk: one, the SSS Commission’s 
constrained eapaeity to improve collection rate and efficiency that deprives them of additional 
funds that could be used for social security protection and investments; and two, the restricted 
investment options that keeps the Commission from maximizing potential market gains and 
made them more dependent on membership contributions to extend benefits and services. For 
this reason, it is prudent to provide the Social Security Commission powers to ensure prudent 
fiseal management and sound investment strategies to secure the future of the SSS and its 32.5 
million members.
Social Security System. (2004). Actuarial Study Notes. Quezon City; Social Security System.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E  
S. B. NO.
i
In tro d u ced  by SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA
AN ACT STRENGTHENING THE CONSERVATION AND PROTECTION OF 
THE NATIONAL CULTURAL HERITAGE, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE 
REPUBLIC ACT NO. 10066 OR THE NATIONAL CULTURAL HERITAGE ACT 
OF 2009
Explanatory Note
O ur culture is our story as a nation. It is the narrative th at binds Filipinos 
regardless of ethnicity, social class, or educational background into a common 
chronicle of tradition, trials, and trium ph.
According to the 
United 
Nations 
Educational, 
Scientific and 
Cultural 
Organization (UNESCO), there are two approaches for preserving cultural 
heritage. The first approach is to record it in a tangible form, docum enting and 
putting it in archives; the other is preservation through living form to ensure 
th at it will be passed on to the next generation as well as practiced in everyday 
life.
The UNESCO considers cultural m apping as a vital tool and technique in 
providing society an overall framework in the preservation of its tangible and 
intangible cultural assets. The docum entation of these cultural elem ents cover 
a wide range of areas—built heritage such as architecture, tangible heritage 
such as traditional dwellings, intangible heritages such as indigenous skills, 
and natural heritage. The fundam ental goal of cultural m apping is to educate 
and help the nation visualize its rich heritage while allowing for reflection of 
w hat it stand to lose as a result its collective apathy.
The Schools of Living Traditions (SLTs) was established in response to the 
approach of preservation of the arts through living form with the aim of 
transm itting indigenous skills and techniques to the young. It hopes to create 
and n urture the talents of culture specialist/m aster to "continue with their 
own work, develop and expand the frontiers of th at work, and train younger 
people to take their place in the future."
The National Commission for C ulture and the Arts (NCCA) has successfully 
instituted and m anaged the growth of SLTs. In the last fifteen years, the 
num ber of SLTs across the country am ong different ethno-linguistic groups has 
grown in num ber. The mode of teaching of SLTs is usually non-formal, oral and 
through practical dem onstrations. The location of SLTs may be as simple as
r.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
SENAT 
S.B. No.
§54
iP  TIME:
BILLS & IKPEX
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT
STRENGTHENING THE SECURED TRANSACTIONS LEGAL FRAMEWORK IN THE 
PHILIPPINES, WHICH SHALL PROVIDE FOR THE CREATION, PERFECTION, 
DETERMINATION OF PRIORITY, ESTABLISHMENT OF A NOTICE REGISTRY, AND 
ENFORCEMENT OF SECURITY INTERESTS IN PERSONAL PROPERTY, AND FOR OTHER
PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are critical in the country's 
drive to maintain strong economic growth and uplift millions who live in poverty 
considering that in 2014 they comprised 99.6% of all Philippine businesses, 
generated 62.8% of all jobs in the Philippines,1 and contributed to around 35% to 
Philippine GDP.2
The challenge is to ensure that microenterprises grow into small business; 
and small businesses develop into medium-sized enterprises. We must provide these 
businesses with an enabling environment so they survive, grow, and expand to 
create better lives for their families and increase job opportunities for other 
Filipinos. Crucial to their growth is access to financing at reasonable rates.
While there is notable growth in the microfinance sector, there is still a major 
gap relative to financing small enterprises, whose loan requirements are beyond the 
scope of microfinance institutions. Despite being a growth area for banks, SME 
financing is still considered unattractive given the perceived risks, without traditional 
collateral such as land and other real property. However, MSMEs' assets are mostly
1 http://www.dti.Rov.ph/dti/index.php/resources/sm e-resources/sm e-statistics.
2 http://www.philstar.com/business/2015/ll/24/1525141/smes-eyed-hike-Rdp-contribution.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
Senate B ill No. 
304
dateJUL
II
BILLS •  IN
Introd uced by S enator Juan M iguel F. Zubiri
AN ACT
DECLARING THE TWENTY SEVENTH DAY OF JULY OF EVERY YEAR A 
SPECIAL NONWORKING HOLIDAY IN  RECOGNITION OF THE 
FOUNDING ANNIVERSARY OF THE IGLESIA N I CRISTO (IN C ), 
AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SECTION 3 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9645 
AND SECTION 26, CHAPTER 7 OF EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 292, 
OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE ADMINISTRATIVE CODE OF 1987 AS
AMENDED
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Iglesia Ni Cristo, a nontrinitian, independent and religious organization 
founded by Ka Felix Manalo on July 27, 1914 with its first church located in 
Punta, Manila's Santa Ana district after its first converts were baptized in the 
nearby Pasig River. What started with twelve followers is now a Church that has 
grown to more than two million followers in the Philippines and with more than 
3,000 congregations called locales, of which more than 300 locales are scattered 
in around seventy countries worldwide. By some accounts, it is considered the 
second largest formal religion in the country after Catholicism.
The Iglesia Ni Cristo, being founded in the Philippines by a Filipino, is recognized 
as a credible and respected religious organization, not only in the country but 
also in the whole world. Thus, it has brought honor and recognition to the 
country as a bastion of evangelization in this part of the world.
In line with the foregoing, the Congress enacted Republic Act No. 9625 to 
commemorate the Founding anniversary of the Iglesia Ni Cristo in recognition of 
its exemplary feat of leading its members towards spiritual enlightenment and 
good citizenry. Undoubtedly, the Iglesia Ni Cristo has spread the Good News of 
our Lord in the Philippines and the rest of the world, and continues to do so with 
zeal and faithfulness as exemplified by its founder, Ka Felix Manalo.
Thus, it is but fitting to recognize this triumph of evangelization of Iglesia Ni 
Cristo by celebrating its founding anniversary or July 27 of every year as a 
special nonworking holiday throughout the country, thereby amending RA No. 
9625.
In view of the foregoing, approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
IGUEL F. ZU BIR I
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E
776
S. B. No.
« V v :^  C §ffu6 o f the,?? (•iTet.'irjj
'16 JUL 21 
All 22
RK( j
'W ;
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT
DECLARING AS UNLAWFUL ANY GOVERNMENT PROJECTS TO BE NAMED 
OR IDENTIFIED AFTER GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS AND OTHER PERSONS 
WHOSE NAME OR IDENTITY MAY IN ANY MANNER BE ASSOCIATED WITH
SAID OFFICIALS
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Government projects are funded using tax payer's money.
However, it has been the traditional practice of government officials to label or 
acknowledge the procurement of items with their names or identities as if the projects 
or items were personally funded - basic government services such as waiting sheds,, 
ambulances and even trash bins are tagged with their family names.
In the same manner, this practice permits government officials to prematurely 
campaign for re-election all year round, while at the same time projecting a false and 
inflated sense of accomplishment to their constituency.
In the interest of objectivity and fairness to the public and the money they have 
entrusted to the govermnent by way of taxes, this bill deserves immediate consideration 
and approval. It is the people's money, not theirs.
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
1^
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S. No. 563
JUL 19 P4 ;47 
RKCKtV?;.t' 3Y: ^  ^  
.
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
TO 
ESTABLISH 
THE 
NATIONAL 
RESEARCH, 
DEVELOPMENT 
AND 
EXTENSION CENTER FOR PINEAPPLE, AUTHORIZING THE APPROPRIATION 
OF FUNDS THEREFOR, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Philippines is among the top producers of pineapple fmit in the world. In 2004, fresh 
pineapples were mainly exported to Japan and South Korea while canned pineapples were 
mainly exported to USA (excluding Hawaii and Alaska). In 2004, 80 countries produced 
13,705,091 of which Thailand was the leading producer with 15% share of the world’s output, 
Philippines with 13% share.
Pineapple is extensively cultivated in the country. Large plantations on Mindanao mainly 
export the fruits while those on Luzon and in the Visayas supply the domestic markets. A 
total of 48,238 ha were planted to pineapple, producing 1.7M tonnes (2004). Major producing 
regions are Northern Mindanao, SOCCSKSARGEN (Southern Cotabato, Cotabato Province, 
Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, General Santos City), Bicol and Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, 
Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon).
Pineapple market is worldwide and highly competitive. Pineapple is the third most important 
tropical fruit next to banana and mango. However, in many countries, resources for pineapple 
research have notably declined in these most recent years possibly due to poorer earnings. 
Moreover, there is a gap between public research and private needs for pineapple 
development.
The legislation envisions the creation of a National Research, Development and Extension 
Center for Pineapple to bridge this gap, in as far as the Philippine pineapple industry is 
concerned. This center is tasked to undertake comprehensive research on the advancement of 
pineapple cultivation and post-harvest handling. Its powers and functions shall be in line with 
the research, development and extension programs of concerned government agencies which 
include the Department of Agriculture - Bureau of Agricultural Research (DA-BAR), 
Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), 
National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) and Central Mindanao University.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session
SENATE
S.B. No. 
193
b il l s  & II
INTRODUCED BY: SENATOR EMMANUEL D. PACQUIAO
AN ACT INCREASING THE COMPOSITION OF BARANGAY OFFICIALS, 
AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7160, OTHERWISE 
KNOWN AS “THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT CODE OF 1991”, AS AMENDED
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This bill seeks to increase the composition of barangay officials, amending for the 
purpose Republic Act No. 7160, otherwise known as “The Local Government Code of 1991,” 
as amended.
The barangay is the basic political unit that serves as the primary planning and 
implementing unit of government policies, plans, programs, projects and activities in the 
community. It also functions as a forum wherein the collective views of the people may be 
expressed and considered, and where disputes may be amicably settled.
Under the Local Government Code of 1991, each barangay has barangay officials 
which include the punong barangay, seven (7) sangguniang barangay members of kagawads, 
sangguniang kabataan chairman, barangay secretary, and barangay treasurer. The 
Sangguniang barangay, which is the legislative body of the barangay, is composed of the 
punong barangay as presiding officer and the seven (7) regular sangguniang barangay 
members elected at large and the sangguniang kabataan chairman, as members. As members 
of the sangguniang barangay, sangguniang barangay members or kagawads primarily enact 
ordinances as may be necessary to discharge the responsibilities conferred upon them by law 
or ordinance and promote the general welfare of the inhabitants in the barangay. They also 
assist in the discharge of the duties of the punong barangay, act as peace officers in the 
maintenance of public order and safety, and perform such other duties and functions as the 
punong barangay may delegate.
As a political unit, the barangay needs to be strengthened. One way of strengthening 
the barangay and make it a more effective partner in the attainment of national goals is to 
increase the number of sangguniang barangay officials by adding one sangguniang barangay
■ 
, ¥
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
" i ” -‘ r r r r , n r «
■16 M. 19 
AlO ‘26
S E N A T E  
S.B. NO.
Kf ‘ E I V K l)  l i Y :_
Introduced by SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA
AN ACT INTEGRATING FOREIGN LANGUAGE EDUCATION IN THE 
PRIMARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOL CURRICULA
Explanatory Note
The demands ol an increasingly globalized environment have impacted on the 
Philippine economy in unprecedented ways. There is now, more than ever, great 
pressui e on us to adapt to the demands of transnational and multilingual institutions in 
order to become a globally competitive nation. One of the ways to ensure that Filipinos 
will gain a considerable advantage is to introduce comprehensive educational reforms in 
the primary and sc'condary levels, which may enhance Filipino competency in foreign 
languages. Learning ioreign languages at the earliest possible time opens up a whole 
new dimension for children, as it increases their interest in reading and writing, and can 
significantly conti iluitc to the development of their individual intelligence.
Spanish, for instance, is spoken everyday by over 45 million people in 22 countries, and 
48 million others are learning the language through various instituHons like the Instituto 
Cervmitcs. It is also the third most used language on the internet, after English and 
Mandaiin. As the Spanish-speaking countries are large markets for both goods and 
services, learning the language is a good long-term investment for Filipinos.
Beyond our need to become globally competitive, we also note that the cultivation of 
international cooperation is aided by the learning of other languages, as it facilitates an 
interest in other cultures, expands our realm of ideas, and provides for common threads 
through which we can create a harmonious global community.
In light of tire challenges thrust upon us by the changing times and our own objectives, 
the passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
eo reN leg a rd a
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session
SENATE
S.B. No. 
192
iP  TIM E:
B IL L S  &  IN DEX
INTRODUCED BY: SENATOR EMMANUEL D. PACQUIAO
AN ACT
MANDATING THE PHILIPPINE OVERSEAS EMPLOYMENT 
ADMINISTRATION (POEA) TO PUBLISH, DISSEMINATE 
AND UPDATE A HANDBOOK ON THE RIGHTS AND 
RESPONSIBILITIES OF MIGRANT WORKERS, AMENDING 
FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8042, OTHERWISE 
KNOWN AS THE “MIGRANT WORKERS AND OVERSEAS 
FILIPINOS ACT OF 1995,” AS AMENDED
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Commission on Filipinos Overseas reports that more thanlO million 
Filipinos work or reside abroad. The data represents those who decided to work in a 
foreign land to earn more money in order to provide a better future for their families. 
Consequently, it accounts for the segment of the population considered to be the 
“anchor of the Philippine economy,” as these migrant workers send about $20 million 
in remittances every year.
With all these invaluable sacrifices and contributions, they deserve nothing but 
the most comprehensive programs and policies that can protect their rights and 
welfare. The government’s work, however, does not stop in merely crafting and 
implementing laws for the migrant workers’ advantage. It must also ensure that such 
laws are functional and accessible to them.
Hence, this bill seeks to mandate the Philippine Overseas Employment 
Administration (POEA) to publish, disseminate and update a handbook on the rights 
and responsibilities of migrant workers. The Handbook aims to provide them with 
pertinent information, which can help them address their problems and concerns. It 
also seeks to serve as their reference when they need to assert their rights as overseas 
employees.
Approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
PACQUIAO
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S. B. No.
S E N A T E
775
( J ff ir e  of fhE (^>«,n  i l.u y
*16 JUL 21 All 23
H F r i : r > ; ' ^
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT
REGULATING STREET AND ROAD SIGNS, WAITING SHEDS, SPEED BUMPS, 
SIDEWALKS, PAVEMENTS, STREETLIGHTS AND OTHER SIMILAR 
INFRASTRUCTURES PRESCRIBING THE SPECIFICATION AND 
MEASUREMENT STANDARDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
It is submitted that there is a need to define, as a matter of policy, a primary 
reference for the design and installation of street and road signs, waiting sheds, speed 
bumps, sidewalks, pavements and other similar infrastructures.
With the above reference, regulation will set i<“i to promote a uniform and 
consistent standard not only to maximize road safety and provide reliable instructions 
but also to advance aesthetics throughout the country's thoroughfares.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), as the lead agency to 
implement the provisions of this bill, will be better equipped with this statutory 
mandate in the issuances and implementation of its Manuals not only for road signs 
and pavement markings. Moreover, the specification and measurement standards will 
be more defined, constant and universal.
In view of the foregoing, the passage of this bill is respectfully requested.
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS O F TH E 
)
REPUBLIC O F TH E PH ILIPPIN ES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S. No.
( § l f i r i o f Hji>.,}!*'• I I 'l't ii ^
'16 JUL20 A 9 :33
KI
■'-Y:
Introduced by Sen. Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
ESTABLISHING TH E PH ILIPPIN E CIV IL SERVICE REFO RM  CODE AND 
FO R  O TH ER  PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
At present, the pieces of legislation governing the Philippine Civil Service remain 
scattered in different laws, decrees, and letters of instructions and executive orders. The 
absence of a comprehensive civil service law has sometimes caused confusion among 
civil servants, to say the least. Many laws overlap and some have become obsolete.
This bill seeks to codify all laws and relevant issuances governing the civil service into a 
single, comprehensive statute. The goal is to finally have an ultimate legal authority on 
the Philippine Civil Service System. There is an urgent need to update and gather all 
civil service and related laws to address the ever changing needs of the times.
This proposed Civil Service Code seek to address deeply rooted problems besetting the 
public service such as graft and corruption, red-tape, violations of government employee 
rights and the merit system, among other things specifically the right to security of 
tenure and the right to due process of law; violations of the merit and fitness principle; 
partisan political activities; inadequate benefits and privileges of employees; 
organization ineffectiveness and the unnecessary delays in frontline services delivery.
In view of the foregoing, approval of this measure is earnestly sought.
A N T O ^r& ^S O ^Y” F. TRILLAN ES IV
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
FIRST REGULAR SESSION 
)
S r  unit'
•16 
JIJL 26 
A9 :43
SENATE
SENATE BILL NO. 889
Introduced by SENATOR JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO
AN ACT
ADOPTING THE HIGHER PRESCRIBED PENALTY, INCLUDING DEATH, 
OF THE NATIONAL LAW OF AN ALIEN FOUND GUILTY OF 
TRAFFICKING DANGEROUS DRUGS AND OTHER SIMILAR 
SUBSTANCES, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9165, 
OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE "COMPREHENSIVE DANGEROUS DRUGS
ACT OF 2002"
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Prohibited and dangerous drugs are a bane to society. It is estimated in 
the United Nations World Drug Report that the Philippines has the highest 
incidence of use of methamphetamine hydrochloride.
The effects of dangerous drug use are numerous. It can range from the 
destruction of one's career, family life, and as is always the case, to criminality.
According to the Philippine Center On Transnational Crime, the 
geographical location of the Philippines consisting of its vast shorelines make it a 
prime location for importing of drugs by syndicates both local and foreign 
nationals.
Foreign nationals are not exempted from the operation of the provisions 
of the laws of the Philippines. In fact, the respect that they should repose upon
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S f n a t r
of
*16 JUL 19 A10:16
S E N A T E
S.B. No. 422
HI BlVl !) HY;
In tro d u ced  by SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA
AN ACT PROMOTING SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION TECHNOLOGIES 
AND APPROACHES FOR SUSTAINABLE LAND MANAGEMENT IN THE 
PHILIPPINES AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
Explanatory Note
The D epartm ent of Agriculture’s B ureau of Soils and W ater M anagement 
estim ates th at 45% or around 13 million hectares of arable land in the 
Philippines are either m oderately or severely eroded 
due to m assive 
deforestation and adoption of unsustainable land m anagem ent practices in the 
upland areas, further com pounded by the unabated use of “urea” in m odern 
farming. The widespread use of the latter has led to actual soil degradation -  
commonly known as soil mining, leading to lower agricultural output despite 
the application of m odern farming practices. Land degradation in the country 
has affected more th an  33 million Filipinos and is likely to contribute to 
widespread and severe poverty in the rural areas.
The 2012 Yearbook of the United Nations Environm ent Programme (UNEP) 
highlighted how land degradation, particularly soil erosion, was believed to 
have worsened the im pact of climate change through the release of carbon 
previously stored in the soil. Ordinarily, soil stores large am ounts of carbon 
which binds the nutrients found in the ground, and allows rainfall to flow 
towards the underground aquifers. This suggests th at if the unsustainable land 
m anagem ent practices continue, more carbon will be released to the 
atm osphere, th u s adding to the carbon produced by the burning of fossil fuels.
In this light, this m easure seeks to support Sustainable Land M anagem ent 
(SLM) program s for livelihood improvement, particularly th at of upland farm ers 
and indigenous peoples, and for the prevention of land degradation.
The salient features of the bill are as follows:
(a) Establishm ent of the National Soil and W ater Conservation Program 
which 
shall 
foment 
synergy 
between 
agricultural 
productivity 
improvement and sustainable land m anagem ent through the prom otion 
and im plem entation of soil and w ater conservation technologies and 
approaches;
.d a 1#.*
IMil
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S. No.
JUL 19 
P 4  ‘4 3
(Vf In ijy .
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
ESTABLISHING 
THE 
PHILIPPINE 
NATIONAL 
MARITIME 
MUSEUM, 
APPRORIATING FUNDS THEREFOR, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Philippine coastal waters contain some of the world's most diverse and richest 
ecosystems, characterized by extensive coral reefs, sea grass beds, dense mangrove forests, 
and pristine and beautiful beaches. Indeed, the country's vast maritime zone truly deserves 
merit for its abundant and admirable marine resources.
Indisputably, marine resources have made significant contributions to the cultural, social and 
economic life of Philippine society. However, there is no collective repository for the 
valuable materials and relics these resources have contributed to our cultural heritage.
This bill aims to develop, preserve and maintain the national collection of maritime historical' 
material, and disseminate information relating to the country's maritime history through the 
establishment of the Philippine National Maritime Museum. It shall be a promising venue to 
educate the people on the challenges the marine resources have been confronted with. This 
further intends to conduct, arrange for and assist research into matters relating to the country's 
maritime history.
In view of the foregoing, passage of this measure is earnestly requested.
ANTONtoN sONpW ” F. tIr Il LANES IV
/  
Senator