bettergovph/raw-philippine-data huggingface dataset:
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
4'iif'A 
^ fn a tr
"f tlj* >crTrt.iry
'16 
JUL 18 P6 :17
SENATE
S.B. No.
395
K i : a ; i v r ; ! )  n v ;
In tro d u ced  by S en ato r LOREN LEGARDA
AN ACT SUPPORTING THE PRODUCTION OF PHILIPPINE INDEPENDENT 
FILMS BY PROVIDING INCENTIVES TO FILMMAKERS WHO ARE GIVEN 
HONORS IN NOTABLE INTERNATIONAL FILM COMPETITIONS
Explanatory Note
Independent Filipino film m akers usually work on a tight budget and seek 
support from various institutions th at believe in the m essage and the social 
im pact of the films th at they produce. Despite m eager resources, these 
film m akers are not only able to participate b u t also receive m ajor aw ards and 
special citations in various prestigious international film festivals such as the 
C annes International Film Festival, British Independent Film Awards, Venice 
International Film Awards, and the San Sebastian International Film Festival, 
am ong m any others. These independent film m akers bring honor and recognition 
to the country even with little support from the government.
This bill seeks to acknowledge the efforts of these world-class independent 
Filipino film m akers and to further prom ote the production of Filipino 
independent films by providing financial grants and incentives to independent 
movie and docum entary producers who are recognized in notable international 
film competitions.
In view of the foregoing, early passage of this bill is requested.
LOREITLEGARDA
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S. No. 493
> rn3h-
*16 JUL 19 All '43
Introduced by Senator Antonio ‘‘Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
CREATING PLANTILLA POSITION IN THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION 
FOR VOLUNTEER TEACHERS WITH AT LEAST FIVE (5) YEARS OF 
CONTINUOUS 
SERVICE 
IN 
THE 
PUBLIC 
SCHOOL 
SYSTEM 
AND 
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Teaching may be the noblest profession; but for volunteer teachers across the country, it has 
failed to provide an adequate income to support their basic personal needs. A volunteer 
teacher receives only a meager allowance per month for their services, which could hardly 
provide for their family’s needs considering the increasing cost of living.
To augment their meager income, a volunteer teacher engages in various income generating 
activities such as selling processed food products, clothes, cosmetics, and other sundry items. 
The time and effort a voltmteer teacher spends in pursuing these entrepreneurial endeavors 
could be put to better use of improving his/her knowledge and preparing his/her lesson plans.
Despite the paltry amoimt he/she receives from teaching, however, a certified volunteer 
teacher persists in serving his community. He/she continues to equip the youth with necessary 
knowledge and guidance molding them into productive members of society.
It is in this light that this bill seeks to create plantilla positions in the Department of 
Education for volunteer teachers with at least five (5) years continuous service in the 
Philippine public school system and appropriating funds therefor. It is only proper that 
volunteer teachers be given teaching position that will provide him/her a secure and adequate 
source of livelihood, especially those who are qualified and possess the appropriate 
eligibility. Furthermore, it will not only give them adequate income for their needs, but will 
also accord them the dignity they truly deserve as practitioners of this noble profession.
In view of the aforesaid considerations, the approval of this bill is earnestly recommended.
ANTONIO
NNM F. T
S enaw r
LLANES IV
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES )
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s. No. 924
^  
o f tllC ^  I’s't i-t-iC !,[
*16 -A1J6 -1 
A11 :26
UK I
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto
AN ACT
REDUCING ELECTRICITY RATES BY ALLOCATING THE NET NATIONAL 
GOVERNMENT 
SHARE 
FROM 
THE 
MALAMPAYA 
NATURAL 
GAS 
PROJECT FOR THE PAYMENT OF THE STRANDED CONTRACT COSTS 
AND STRANDED DEBTS OF THE NATIONAL POWER CORPORATION
Explanatory Note
The Malampaya Deep Water Gas-to-Power Project is one of the largest and most 
significant industrial endeavors in Philippine history as it paved the way for the discovery 
of an alternative and indigenous source of energy. It reduced the country’s dependence on 
imported fuel for the bulk of its domestic and industrial power requirement. The 
Malampaya Project is a joint undertaking of the national government and the private 
sector represented by Shell Philippines Exploration B.V. (SPEX) on behalf of joint 
venture partners Chevron Malampaya LLC and the PNOC Exploration Corporation.
The said project was expected to provide 2,700 megawatts of power or substantial 
long-term revenue of some US$10 billion to the Philippine government for a period of 20 
years starting June 2 0 0 2 . [2^ The Bureau of the Treasury reported that the Malampaya 
fund posted a total revenue collection of P224.34 billion since 2002 and an outstanding 
balance of PI82.29 billion as of June 22, 2016.^* * 3^ For fiscal year 2016, the revenue 
estimate from the Malampaya Project is P27.15 billion, with a proposed expenditure of 
only PI.04 billion.[4]
Presidential Decree No. 910 mandates that the government share from service 
contracts and agreements such as the Malampaya Fund shall be used to finance energy 
resource development and exploration programs and projects as may be directed by the 
President. However, over the years, the annual revenue inflow from Malampaya was used 
to fund non-energy related programs such as rice sufficiency programs, relief operations 
and AFP Modernization Fund.
Expected life of the Malampaya Gas Project http://www.doe.gov.ph/DNG/malampava historv.pdf 
(Accessed 2 April 2013)
The 
SC 
38 
consortium 
applies 
for 
a 
15-year 
extension 
of 
its 
service 
contract 
http://www.doe.gov.ph/News/201 l-10-03-Malampava%20expansion.htm (Accessed 2 April 2013)
3 Bureau of the Treasury. Status of DOE-Malampaya Special Account in the General Fund 151 as of June 
22, 2016.
Department of Budget and Management, “Budget of Expenditures and Sources of Financing (Table 
B.17): Fiscal Year 2016” (Projected Revenues from the Malampaya Project for FY 2016)
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
of flit,, 
V
'16 
JUL 21 
A11:ll
S E N A T E  
S. B. No.___ 766
KFr.vr 
,TY;
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT
BANNING SUPERMARKETS, FOOD ESTABLISHMENTS AND OTHER SIMILAR 
BUSINESSES FROM THROWING AWAY AND SPOILING UNSOLD FOOD
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Bamiing food businesses from throwing away and spoiling unsold food can be 
an effective means in addressing food waste. Moreover, it can also serve as a mover for 
these businesses to make use of such unsold food for charity purposes through 
donation.
Food waste is a serious issue not only in the Philippines but in the world as well. 
According to the Food and Agriculture Organization, in 2011 alone, over 1.3 billion tons 
of food is lost each year. In rice for instance, every Filipino wasted an average of 3.29 
kg/year per the Food and Nutrition Research Institute of the Department of Science and 
Teclmology. This translates to 296,869 metric tons of rice accounting to 12.2% of our 
aimual rice importation. In money, the lost amounts to PhP7.3 billion.
Admittedly, this bill does not seek to completely address food waste as there are 
other factors to contend with. However, it is strongly submitted that this Bill can make a 
difference and initiate further awareness in addressing food waste.
Respectfully submitted.
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES ) 
First Regular Session 
)
ft
a
• . ^ ^
•16
IIJI, 19 
P ? : M
S. No.
SENATE
530
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” Trillanes IV
AN ACT
INSTITUTIONALIZING THE YOUNG FARMERS' PROGRAM, PROVIDING FUNDS 
THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Being an agricultural country, it is sad to note that the Philippines' agriculture and fisheries 
sector are among those which have been most neglected. We still import most of our food 
requirements because we are unable to raise enough food for our people. As a result there is very 
little investment in the agricultural and fisheries sectors. For every peso loan extended in the 
country, only a centavo goes to agriculture. To make matters worse, the Filipino farmers have 
grown old. At 67 years, they are older than all of their Asian counterparts and produce less than 
the Vietnamese, Thai, and Chinese farmers.
The current situation in the agriculture and fisheries sector has likewise affected our young 
graduates. More agriculture and fisheries graduates choose to concentrate on other fields. They 
would rather go to the cities or go abroad to work as domestic helpers or caregivers after four (4) 
years of college. But they cannot be blamed for this because aside from an educational system 
that promotes employment rather than entrepreneurship, they find little or no prospects in 
agriculture or fisheries.
Therefore, this bill aims to further strengthen the active participation of the Filipino youth in 
agricultural productivity by institutionalizing the Young Farmers Program (YFP). The YFP 
intends to equip the youth with the necessary technical and entrepreneurial skills, to provide 
them production and marketing support, and to aid them in capital formation with the hope that 
they may contribute to food security, generate employment in the countryside and energize the 
agri-fisheries sector to meet the challenges of globalization.
This proposed legislative measure further intends to effectively instill to the Filipino youth the 
needed dedication and commitment to be effective partners in nation-building in order to attain
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session
S E N A T E
SB.
S f t i i . r r
of fhf
•16
K I '
26 A 9 :0tt
'n ':
Introduced by Senator Poe
AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR TAX EXEMPTIONS AND SUBSIDIES FOR THE LOCAL MUSIC 
INDUSTRY AND AMENDING CERTAIN SECTIONS OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7160 
OR THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT CODE OF 1991
Explanatory Note
Filipinos are globally well-recognized, especially in music. Global talent shows have 
proven that Filipino singers are at par with their international counterparts.
The growing phenomenon of piracy, however, has not only affected local artists but 
also affected music producers around the world, especially in the advent of the Internet as 
music can now be easily downloaded for free.
Despite laws and state agencies dedicated to combat music piracy and protect 
copyrights, industry estimates indicate more than Phpl Billion in revenue losses due to piracy 
and other copyright violations. Furthermore, according to the United States-based 
International Intellectual Property Alliance’s (IIPA) Special 301 Report on Copyright 
Protection and Enforcement 2014 submitted to the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) and 
other U.S. government agencies, “while access to the Internet in the areas outside Metro 
Manila is still not that well-established, Internet penetration in the cities is growing. Internet 
piracy is growing along with it, through P2P file-sharing services, BitTorrent file-sharing, 
deep linking, blogs providing links to pirate materials, and cyberlockers used to store 
infringing material, to which pirates then sell passwords for illegal access.” The IIPA had 
ranked the country as fifth in global and second in Asian music piracy. In 2009 alone, the 
Philippines lost around USDl 12.2 Million in audio CD sales.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES ) 
First Regular Session 
)
S i r .  -r 
' f i f f l t e o f  (I. y,' ■ . ! 
;
' 1 A
SENATE
s. No. 524
1'=* 
l ! ? : 2 7
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
PROVIDING BENEFITS TO PUBLIC EMPLOYEES WHO SUFFER ANY INJURY 
IN THE LINE OF DUTY THAT LEADS TO DISABILITY
EXPLANATORY NOTE
One of the best values in employee benefits today is insurance. Providing insurance to 
employees is one notable means of prevention, early diagnosis and treatment of work-related 
illnesses. It alludes to an assurance of their safety and well-being.
However, there are employees, despite of existing precautionary measures, who still suffer an 
injury in the line of duty which makes them unable to perfonn their duties. Because of their 
diminished mobility and physical incapability, an immediate and accessible assistance is 
essentially needed.
Considering the importance of offering such services and benefits that will protect employees 
from the financial setbacks of a disability, this bill humbly acknowledges and understands the 
plight of public employees undergoing such hardships and needs accommodation without 
delay.
In view of the foregoing, immediate approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
ANTONiVO ‘’SONNY’’ F. TRILLANES IV
'  
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE } 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
}
First Regular Session 
}
.(/) TIME:
BILLS &/IN
S E N A T E
S.B. No. 221
In tro d u c e d  b y  SENATOR VICENTE C. SOTTO III
AN ACT
PROHIBITING BACKRIDERS ON TWO-WHEELED 
MOTORCYCLES/SCOOTERS AND EXCEPTIONS THERETO
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The use of motorcycles in the commission of crime in our cities and 
highways is common knowledge. Motorcycle back-riders, referred to as 
"riding-in-tandem" criminals, have ample opportunity to commit heinous 
crimes with Impunity because of the facility of getting away from the scene 
of the crime by use of a motorcycle which can avoid and wind through even 
heavy traffic.
A municipality in Metro Manila has likewise experimented on this and 
the proposal needs to be effective nationwide if it has to have any lasting 
benefit.
This may be frowned upon by some members of society, but we have 
to think of the higher good of protecting the life and limb of our citizens.
Thus, this proposal is urgently recommended for adoption.
VICENTE C. SOTTO III
SrrKitr
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE 
s.No. 4 9 2
tf;p S r m f t a r y
■16 
JUL 19 
All -A2
i.  ' 
, i  
r  ! ^
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
INCREASING 
THE 
PENALTY 
IMPOSED 
AGAINST 
POLLUTERS 
OF 
NAVIGABLE WATERS BY AMENDING SECTION 7 OF PRESIDENTIAL DECREE 
NO. 979 PROVIDING FOR THE REVISION OF PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 600 
GOVERNING MARINE POLLUTION
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Presidential Deeree No. 979 states that it is the policy of the state to prevent and control the 
pollution of seas caused by the dropping of wastes and other matter which create hazards to 
human health, hann living resources and marine life, damage amenities, or interfere with the 
legitimate uses of the sea within the territorial jurisdiction of the Philippines.
It is only just and imperative to provide stiffer civil and criminal penalties against polluters of 
our marine environment considering our dependence on the sea and other bodies of water for 
our transportation, livelihood and other related industries.
This bill simply seeks to increase the penalties being imposed and provided for under the 
present law to a fine of not less than Five Million Pesos (P 5,000,000.00) or imprisonment of 
not less than 8 years and 1 day nor more than 12 years, or both such fine and imprisonment.
The immediate passage of this bill is earnestly recommended.
ANTONI
ONN
ILLANES IV
■'V-.i-M' l$r(ire of flw*.5*1 n rt trjj
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES ) 
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S. No. 
5 1 1
'16 
JUL19 
P2 :11
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
ESTABLISHING THE LOCAL MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEM
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This bill seeks to establish a Local Government Infonnation Management Program to provide 
management information system in all Local Government Units (LGUs) in order to further 
strengthen local government administration for national development.
Our experience in the devolution of powers and authority to local governments by virtue of the 
Local Government Code has confirmed the need for sustained support to the enhancement of 
local government capability for responsive and accountable governance. This need has become 
more urgent because the national government has increasingly tapped local governments for 
economic pump priming. Needless to say, the LGUs are faced with tremendous demands for 
effective performance of both their local government administration and development functions.
In this context, the establishment of a Local Government Information Management Program to 
guide information systems development among local governments has become imperative to 
ensure the systematic and efficient gathering, processing and utilization of information for local 
development planning and implementation, as well as local government administration. Such 
move is envisioned to rationalize and optimize existing infonnation systems among devolved 
offices toward supporting local development initiatives and therefore a responsive government 
structure.
Moreover, a network of local management infonnation systems will facilitate the collection of 
information and statistics for national development planning and policy-making. Finally, it will 
enhance the dissemination of trade, tourism, and investment information in support of the 
national government's thrust toward countryside development.
In view of the foregoing, the immediate approval of this measure is earnestly sought.
A N T o /lO  “SOIWY” F.[t RILLANES IV
' 
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
S E N A T E  
S.B .N o. 
230
BILLS &
Introduced by Senator FRANKLIN M. DRILON
AN ACT
PROHIBITING THE ESTABLISHMENT OF POLITICAL DYNASTIES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
No less than the Constitution mandates the State to “guarantee equal access to 
public service and prohibit political dynasty as may be defined by law." Such policy 
seeks to level the playing field in the political arena pursuant to cornerstone of our 
country’s governmental ideology-democracy.
Apart from democratizing the election process, this constitutional safeguard 
ensures an unhampered economic progress in the country. A string of literature has 
shown a causal relationship between dynastic concentration and the standard of 
living among the constituents. Research found dynastic concentration to have a 
significantly negative effect on the upliftment of local living standards, noting that 
lack of real political competition leads to flawed policies. 1
After almost thirty years, this laudable intent of the constitutional framers 
unfortunately remains merely an intent as attempts to breathe life into this provision 
have been unsucessful. Thus, this bill aims to implement the state policy against the 
establishment of political dynasty. We acknowledge that in the previous Congress, 
Senators Jose Victor G. Ejercito and Miriam Defensor Santiago filed this proposed 
measure.
Hence, the immediate passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
KLIN M. DRILON
Senator
1 Balisacan, Arsenic M. and Fuwa, Nobuhiko. “Is Spatial Income Inequality Increasing in the Philippines?” 
UNU/WIDER Project Conference on Spatial Inequality in Asia. United Nations University Centre, Tokyo 28-2Q 
March 2003.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
)
)
S E N A T E
236
S. B. No.
BILLS
Introduced by SENATOR GREGORIO B. HONASAN II
AN ACT TO INCREASE TO FIVE MILLION PESOS THE APPROVING AUTHORITY 
OF THE COMMISSION ON AUDIT TO RESTRUCTURE OR CONDONE THE 
UNPAID INTERESTS, PENALTIES AND/OR SURCHARGES ON AGRICULTURAL 
LOANS OF FARMERS AND FISHERFOLKS
EXPLANATORY NOTE
According to the Commission on Audit, “the COA Commission Proper (CP) has original 
jurisdiction over request for condonation of settled claim or liability. Specifically, the evaluation 
of such requests and preparation of draft decisions are done by the Claims and Adjudication 
Offices under the Commission Proper Adjudication and Secretariat Support Services Sector 
(CPASSSS).”1
In the light of proposals to restructure or condone the interests, surcharges and penalties on 
agricultural loans of farmers, farmers’ cooperatives, fishefolks, and agrarian reform beneficiaries 
taken from government agencies, it is understood that in order to preserve the principle of checks 
and balances in government. Section 36 of Presidential Decree (P.D.) No. 1445 or the 
“Government Auditing Code of the Philippines” and Section 20 Subtitle B Book V of the Revised 
Administrative Code grant the COA the power to compromise claim or settled liability to any 
government agency except when provided in the respective charters of government 
agencies/instmmentalities or government-owned or controlled corporations.
The outdated aforementioned provisions, however, limit the approving and recommendatory 
jurisdiction of COA to P10,000.00 and P100,000.00 only. With the intention to adjust the amounts 
to present day values, this bill proposes that the jurisdictional amounts involving the restructuring 
or condonation of agricultural loans be increased to:
a) P5 Million for claims/liabilities to be approved by the Commission; and
b) more than P5 Million for claims/liabilities, upon recommendation of the 
Commission, to be approved by Congress.2
It is our intention to institutionalize this mechanism in order to provide our poor farmers and 
fisherfolks relief from being unable to pay their loans including interests and penalties thereon due 
to causes beyond their control such as the average 20 typhoqj«9 which hit the country every year.
Wherefore, I earnestly seek the immediate enactment of tms proposed measure.
GREGORIO B. HONASAN II
1 C O A  le t t e r  t o  t h e  S e n a te  C o m m itt e e  o n  A g r a r ia n  R e fo r m  d a te d  1 3  J u n e  2 0 1 6 .
2 Ib id
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
)
^ \
!|ltt uC ‘»-
*16 
Pi;57
SENATE
S.B. No.
Introduced by Senator Francis N. Pangilinan
AN ACT PROVIDING FOR A FULL TUITION SUBSIDY FOR STUDENTS ENROLLED 
IN STATE UNIVERSITIES AND COLLEGES (SUCs), AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS
THEREFOR
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The 1987 Philippine Constitution provides that ‘the State shall protect and promote 
the right of all citizens to quality education at all levels and shall take appropriate steps 
to make such education accessible to all.”
According, however, to the 2013 Functional Literacy, Education and Mass Media 
Survey (FLEMMS), one (1) in every ten (10) children or about four million (4,000,000) 
Filipino children and youth (population aged 6 to 24 years) were out-of-school in 2013. 
Further, the proportion of persons who were out-of-school was higher among the youth. 
Results from the survey further show that among the primary reasons for not attending 
school were insufficient family income and high cost of education.
It is crucial, thus, that the State provides all the necessary avenues for every Filipino 
to have an equal opportunity to acquire a college degree required in joining a more 
competitive and profitable working environment.
This measure seeks to provide a full tuition subsidy to students enrolled in SUCs to 
alleviate their burden of paying high tuition fees and encourage them to pursue and 
complete tertiary education.
In view of the foregoing, the approval of this measure is strongly recommended.
FRANCI
IGILINAN
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC } 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
}
First Regular Session 
}
S E N A T E  
Senate Bill No.
JUN 3 0 ?0I6
\\l \ 
D /■. V 
; ----------------------■ 
y
‘■'f' 11 me: S :-r(U rr /
43
I N D E X
BILLS
Introduced by SENATOR LACSON
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The National Irrigation Administration (NIA) is a government-owned and 
controlled corporation primarily responsible for irrigation development and 
management. The NIA’s functions include the planning, designing, construction, and 
improvement of all types of irrigation projects. It is also tasked to operate, maintain, 
and administer all national irrigation systems.
Under its Charter, the NIA is allowed to charge Irrigation Service Fees or ISFs 
in exchange for providing irrigation to farmers, depending on the size of their 
farmlands. The ISFs were abolished by then President Joseph Estrada when he 
delivered his first State of the Nation Address in 1998 but were reinstated when NIA 
sought the adoption of a socialized irrigation fee system, as mandated by 
Administrative Order No. 17 of August 1998. The ISFs are intermittently suspended, 
especially in times of calamities when it was unreasonable to impose additional fees 
on farmers.
However, there is a need to revisit the status quo. Irrigation is a very basic 
governmental function that can very easily be shouldered by the State. It does not 
have to be passed on to farmers. Considering that it is a key factor in increasing 
agricultural productivity, having the State subsidize it will go a long way in ensuring 
adequate food supply and the early recovery of the principal means of livelihood of 
people in disaster-hit and poverty-stricken areas. Thus, it is the intention of this bill to 
revoke the ISF and to make irrigation services free for all farmers.
It is for this reason that the early passage of this bill is earnestly requested.
PANFILa.MyLACSON 
senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E
S.B. No. 248
In tro d u ced  by SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA
AN 
ACT 
IMPLEMENTING 
THE 
RIGHT 
OF 
THE 
PEOPLE 
TO 
INFORMATION ON MATTERS OF PUBLIC CONCERN GUARANTEED 
UNDER 
SECTION 
SEVEN, 
ARTICLE 
THREE 
OF 
THE 
1987 
CONSTITUTION 
AND 
THE 
STATE 
POLICY 
OF 
FULL 
PUBLIC 
DISCLOSURE OF ALL ITS TRANSACTIONS INVOLVING PUBLIC 
INTEREST UNDER SECTION TWENTY EIGHT, ARTICLE TWO OF THE 
1987 CONSTITUTION, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
Explanatory Note
The right to information is a constitutionally protected right under Article 
III, Section 7 of the Constitution, which provides:
"The right of the people to information on matters of public 
concern shall be recognized. Access to official records, and to 
documents, and papers pertaining to official acts, transactions, 
or decisions, as well as to government research data used as 
basis for policy development, shall be afforded the citizen, 
subject to limitations as may be provided by law."
Despite this Constitutional guarantee and its affirmation in a number of 
Supreme Court decisions, we are aware of the wanton violation by many 
government agencies of the right of Filipinos to access Information of public 
interest and concern.
A key problem is lack of legislation. While the Supreme Court has upheld 
the enforceability of the constitutional right to information, its effective 
implementation has for the past two decades suffered from the lack of the 
necessary substantive and procedural details that only Congress can 
provide. As the Supreme Court lamented in Chavez v. NHA (G.R. No. 
164527; August 15, 2007):
"It is unfortunate, however, that after almost twenty (20) years 
from birth of the 1987 Constitution, there is still no enabling 
law that provides the mechanics for the compulsory duty of 
government agencies to disclose information on government 
transactions. Hopefully, the desired enabling law will finally see 
the light of day when Congress decides to approve the proposed 
"Freedom of Access to Information Act."
This bill fulfills the long overdue legislative obligation of Congress by putting 
in place the following major features:
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session
t 
rrK 'l r
nf !l)p ^rrrrt.Try
'16 
Jill. 18 
P5 -57
S E N A T E
S.B. No. 379
;) ! i • Mi :
In tro d u ced  by SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA
AN ACT SAFEGUARDING THE TRADITIONAL PROPERTY RIGHTS OF 
INDIGENOUS PEOPLES
Explanatory Note
O ur indigenous peoples have suffered historical injustices in the form of 
discrim ination, deprivation of their ancestral dom ains and lands, am ong m any 
other hum an rights violations. To add salt to their w ounds, there have been 
m any reported incidences wherein their indigenous knowledge, dances, designs 
^ e  being stolen by local and foreign entities, further marginalizing our 
indigenous com m unities and depriving them  of their cultural property, their 
identity which has been passed on from their ancestors.
The law protecting indigenous peoples’ rights, nam ely the Indigenous Peoples 
Rights’ Act (RA 9371) does not provide for specific provisions for the protection 
of their cultural properties, both intangible and tangible. It is with the passage 
of this bill th at this void is sought to be filled.
With the help of the National Commission for C ulture and the Arts, National 
M useum , National Commission on Indigenous Peoples and local government 
units, this bill shall create a com prehensive cultural archive which shall 
organize and m ake an inventory of all cultural properties of the different ethno- 
linguistic groups of the Philippines. This inventory of cultural properties shall 
then be subm itted to the Commission thru the National M useum  who shall 
ensure the registration of the ownership to the proper ethno-linguistic group 
for protection of their intellectual property. This bill also m andates the 
paym ent of royalties for the use of the cultural property of indigenous groups.
In view of the foregoing considerations, approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
LOREN LEGARDA
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES )
FIRST REGULAR SESSION 
)
SENATE
s. B. NO. 337
INTRODUCED BY SENATOR JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO
AN ACT CREATING BARANGAY COMMUNITY PEACE AND ORDER 
COUNCIL FOR THE UTILIZATION OF BARANGAY OFFICIALS AND 
ITS CONSTITUENTS IN CRIME PREVENTION AND FOR OTHER
PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Our Constitution mandates the maintenance of peace and 
order, protection of life, liberty, and property, and the promotion of 
general welfare of the people. The community relies upon the National 
government through its local executives in terms of the delivery of the 
services aimed towards that end.
In the past, several Local Government Units adopted various 
anti-criminality strategies to promote public safety. However, most of 
the strategies are not being implemented down to the Barangay level. 
In this regard, the State shall likewise bolster a system of cooperation 
among the citizenry and local executives.
Currently the lead agency for securing the public is the 
Philippine National Police under the Department of Interior and Local 
Government. The ratio of our PNP officers to individual citizen is 40:1, 
hence, there is a need for the establishment of an effective machinery 
policing system having partnership with the community.
The Bill seeks to establish a BARANGAY COMMUNITY PEACE 
AND ORDER COUNCIL that will help our existing Philippine National 
Police in crime prevention and implementation of other National and 
Local programs/projects for the benefit of the community particularly 
in Barangay level. This Bill also aims to assist City and Municipal 
Local Government Units (LGU) in handling Peace and Order matters 
such as drug and petty crime prevention, resolving traffic and disaster 
management.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE 
S. B. No. 210
TIME: 
(c:
QILLS A INDEX
Introduced by Senator JOEL “TESDAMAN” VILLANUEVA
AN ACT
PROVIDING FINANCIAL LITERACY 
AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP PROGRAMS FOR WORKERS
EXPLANATORY NOTE
There is a need to train our workers on financial literacy and entrepreneurial skills so 
that they will have necessary knowledge about the basics of personal funds 
management -  from budgeting strategies to the risks effacing high debt.
The majority of our workers are minimum wage earners who in many cases provide for 
their entire families’ needs. The lack of adequate income combined with the poor 
financial management, leads these families to living an uncomfortable life. Our workers 
should know that entrepreneurship enables them to generate more income and opens 
more opportunities for them to have freedom and control over their own lives.
This bill seeks to mandate the Department of Labor and Employment to make financial 
literacy and entrepreneurship programs a vital part of our industries.
Early and immediate passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
SENATOR JOEL “ TJBSDAMAN” VILLANUEVA
€
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
S E N A T E
s" No. 26
JUN 3 0 ?0I6'
uj 
d a t e;
t im e:
B Y ; ---------JJ—
.BILLS <s irupEX
Introduced by SENATOR GREGORIO B. HONASAN I I
AN ACT
DECLARING 
A 
NATIONAL 
PEACE 
POLICY 
THEREBY 
CREATING 
COMMISSION ON PEACE
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This measure seeks to institutionalize a National Peace Policy that is governed by 
the following principles:
a) 
A 
comprehensive 
community-based 
peace 
process 
reflecting 
the 
sentiments, values, and principles important to all Filipinos. Thus, it shall be defined not 
by government alone, nor by the different contending groups only, but by all Filipinos 
as one community.
b) 
A comprehensive peace process that aims to forge a new compact for just, 
equitable, humane and pluralistic society. 
It seeks to estabiish a genuinely pluralistic 
society where all individuals and groups are free to engage in peaceful competition for 
predominance of their political programs without fear, through the exercise of rights 
and liberties guaranteed by the Constitution, and where they may compete for political 
power through an electoral system that Is free, fair and honest.
This bill likewise provides for the creation of a Commission on Peace that will be 
tasked to assist the President in the active pursuit for a comprehensive peace process 
which will inculcate social, economic and political reforms, consensus-building and 
empowerment for peace and peaceful negotiated settlement with the different rebel 
groups. 
Moreover, programs for reconciliation, reintegration into mainstream society, 
rehabilitation, addressing concerns arising from the continuing armed hostilities, 
building and nurturing a climate conducive to peace are also Introduced in this 
measure.
In light of the foregoing, immediate enacOT 
: of this bill is earnestly requested.
GRE iORIO B. HONASAN I]
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E
S. No. 
2 4 0
^  THE
0 Y0f THE
RECEIVEO%t\
.yj >dateJUL Q.4 201^ zj
\0 ) TIME; 
SI
BY:
BILLS &^NbEX
Introduced by Senator GREGORIO B. HONASAN II
AN ACT TO GIVE JURIDICAL PERSONALITY TO THE PRESENT VETERANS 
MEMORIAL MEDICAL CENTER (VMMC) AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
In recognition of the heroism exemplified by our Filipino soldiers during World 
War II, the 80‘" Congress of the United States of America passed Public Land Law 865 
on 8 July 1948 which provided $9.4 million for the construction and establishment of a 
hospital facility presently known as the Veterans Memorial Medical Center. (VMMC)1
The VMMC is mandated, among others, to provide the best possible medical 
care and treatment to eligible veterans and their dependents.2 This, however, may not 
be fully realized as the hospital is primarily dependent on the available funds 
appropriated by the national government. 
Under the General Appropriations Act of 
2016, the hospital’s total budget allocation for FY 2016 is One billion, sixty-eight million, 
eighty-five thousand pesos (PI,068,085,000.00). 
This amount represents a measly 
.91% of the total budget of the Department of National Defense (DND).
Under this proposed measure, it is hereby declared the policy of the State to 
strengthen, promote and support the undertaking of the VMMC in order to render 
premium medical services to the veterans and their dependents through a 
comprehensive health care system characterized by excellence, dedication and 
commitment
In order to achieve this avowed policy, this bill primarily seeks to provide juridical 
personality to the present VMMC to preserve its viability and continued existence. It is 
also provided in the bill that a Board of Trustees composed of five (5) members shall 
govern, direct and control and manage the activities of the VMMC.
In view of the foregoing, immediate passage of this bill is earnestly requested.
GREGORIO B. HONASAN
/ 
Senator
1 "Veterans Memorial Medical Center." N.p., n.d. Web. 30 Jan. 2014.
2 Ibid.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
S. No.
SENATE
98
2  dateJJJJOJJIF 2
U
 TIME: 
3> ■ t/if ^
i
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
INCREASING THE QUARTERS ALLOWANCE OF OFFICERS AND ENLISTED 
PERSONNEL OF THE ARMED FORCES OF THE PHILIPPINES AND FOR 
OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The current quarters allowance of the officers and enlisted personnel of the Armed Forces of 
the Philippines (AFP) is as follows:
QUARTERS ALLOWANCE SCALE
OFFICERS
MONTHLY
General / Admiral
P 3,000.00
Lieutenant General / Vice Admiral
3,000.00
Major General / Rear Admiral
3,000.00
Brigadier General / Commodore
3,000.00
Colonel / Captain
2,500.00
Lieutenant Colonel / Commander
2,500.00
Major / LCDR
2,500.00
Captain / LTSG
2,000.00
First Lieutenant / LTJG
2,000.00
Second Lieutenant / Ensign
2,000.00
ENLISTED PERSONNEL
First Chief Master / FMCPO
2,000.00
Chief Master Sergeant / MCPO
2,000.00
Senior Master Sergeant / SCPO
2,000.00
Master Sergeant / CPO
2,000.00
Technical Sergeant /POI
1,800.00
Staff Sergeant / P02
1,800.00
Sergeant / P03
1,800.00
Corporal / AlC / SNl
1,600.00
Private First Class / A2C / SN2
1,600.00
Private / AM / ASN
1,600.00
(S ffire of 
jj
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S.NO. 590
•16 JUL19 P5:19
Ff:r
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
AUTHORIZING THE COURT TO REQUIRE COMMUNITY SERVICE IN LIEU OF 
IMPRISONMENT FOR THE PENALTY OF ARRESTO MENOR, AMENDING FOR 
THE PURPOSE CHAPTER FIVE, TITLE THREE, BOOK ONE OF ACT NO. 3815, 
AS AMENDED, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE REVISED PENAL CODE
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Jail congestion is one of the biggest problems of the Bureau of Jail Management and 
Penology (BJMP). This can be illustrated by our city jails. Caloocan City Jail, for instance, is 
congested by 1124 percent. The detention center has an ideal capacity of 136 inmates, yet the 
BJMP managed to fit in 1,665 people. According to BJMP website, 20,497 inmates are 
detained in the National Capital Region alone in a facility meant for 5,926 people. 
Particularly, Metro Manila jails are congested by almost 1000 percent. The nationwide 
congestion rate falls for an average of four to five inmates per square meter. The figures were 
based on the ideal ratio of three square meters for everyone inmate.
According to the Revised Penal Code, the duration of the penalty of arresto menor shall be 
from one day to thirty days. It further indicates that:
"Art. 88. Arresto menor. - The penalty of arresto menor shall be served in the 
municipal jail, or in the house of the defendant himself under the surveillance of an 
officer of the law, when the court so provides in its decision, taking into consideration 
the health of the offender and other reasons which may seem satisfactory to it. ”
Under several Articles of the same Code, arresto menor is imposed in crimes which include, 
among others:
• 
Art. 175 - using false certificates
• 
Art. 202 - vagrancy
• 
Art. 313 - altering boundaries or landmarks
• 
Art. 364 - intriguing against honor
• 
Art. 365 - imprudence and negligence constituting light felony
This bill is put forward in the hope that flexibility in our sentencing procedure will decongest 
our local jails and prevent altogether the criminalization of the offender by his confinement in
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
< yX r '"%  
^
(Sffirt of ffift ^  r 
I
t§ff«r» of tbfc,^ rnttar^
*16 JUL20 P3:18
SENAK fiq
S.B. No.
RFCLIV j , ! • r?Y:
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT
TO SPUR RURAL DEVELOPMENT IN THE COCONUT SECTOR BY ESTABLISHING THE 
COCONUT FARMERS' TRUST FUND, PROVIDING FOR THE MANAGEMENT THEREOF, AND
FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
For more than forty years, the coconut farmers have long been fighting for 
their rights - not just to have access to the Coco Levy - but their right to have the 
opportunity to develop their industry, and provide better lives for their families and 
communities as well.
The immense potential of the coconut industry to be a great contributor to 
the Philippines is largely untapped. With the advancement of farming technology and 
intercropping, there is a huge possibility to harness the coconut industry to address 
increasing demands and offer coco fiber, water, and oil, among others to new 
markets.
It is high time to change its narrative from one of the poorest sector in the 
country to a great economic driver and source of pride of the Filipino people.
This bill proposes to build the Coconut Levy Trust Fund for the growth of the 
industry and ultimately, for the benefit of the small coconut farmers and workers all 
over the country.
The proposal includes the financing of programs for the increased productivity 
of coconut farms, capacity building of farmers, research and development of 
coconut-based enterprises, and implementation of poverty-alleviation programs.
The goal is to rehabilitate and revitalize the industry to stimulate production 
and attract investments that will make it again a viable, profitable and sustainable 
endeavor. The proposal seeks to modernize the farmers and stakeholders to make 
coconut production globally competitive and become a vital source of economic 
income for the country.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S. B. No. 
76
>0) TIME:
bills 
'
INTRODUCED BY SENATOR ALAN PETER "COMPANERO" S. CAYETANO
AN ACT
REPEALING SECTIONS 4(c) (4), 5, 6, AND 7 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 10175, OTHERWISE 
KNOWN AS THE CYBERCRIME PREVENTION ACT OF 2012
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Defenders of Democracy and the right to freedom of expression often quote the following:
"I disapprove of what you say, 
but I will defend to the death 
your right to say it."
-Evelyn Beatrice Hall, "The Friends of Voltaire"
We now live in an age where technology has enhanced the freedom of expression and speech. It has 
likewise empowered people and democratized institutions, processes and government. It is time to 
defend these gains and work harder to pass legislation that will promote rather than stifle freedom 
of expression, creativity and people empowerment.
Article 191 of the International Convention on Civil and Political Rights(lCCPR) states that:
1. Everyone shall have the right to hold opinions without interference.
2. Everyone shall have the right to freedom of expression; this right shall include freedom to 
seek, receive and impart information and ideas of all kinds, regardless of frontiers, either 
orally, in writing or in print, in the form of art, or through any other media of his choice.
3. The exercise of the rights provided for in paragraph 2 of this article carries with it special 
duties and responsibilities. It may therefore be subject to certain restrictions, but these shall 
only be such as are provided by law and are necessary:
a) For respect of the rights or reputations of others;
b) For the protection of national security or of public order (order public), or of public health 
or morals.
Section 2 of Article 2 of the Constitution provides that: "The Philippines renounces war as an 
instrument of national policy, adopts the generally accepted principles of international law as part 
of the law of the land and adheres to the policy of peace, equality, justice, freedom, cooperation, and 
amity with all nations"
1 Article 19 of the International Convention on Civil and Political Rights
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session
SEN 
S. B.
i f i  TIME:
BILLS & (INDEX
Introduced by Senator Poe
AN ACT
STRENGTHENING THE INSTITUTIONAL CAPACITY OF THE OFFICE OF THE 
OMBUDSMAN BY AMENDING CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF REPUBLIC ACT 6770, 
OTHERWISE KNOWN AS “THE OMBUDSMAN ACT OF 1989,” AND PROVIDING*
FUNDS THEREFOR
Explanatory Note
Article XI of the 1987 Constitution creates the Office of the Ombudsman and 
mandates it to act promptly on complaints filed in any form or manner against public officials 
or employees of the Government, or any subdivision, agency or instrumentality thereof, 
including government-owned or controlled corporations. As the champion of the people and 
the preserver of the integrity of the public service, its jurisdiction encompasses all kinds of 
malfeasance, misfeasance, and nonfeasance committed by any public officer or employee 
during his/her tenure of office. Republic Act (R.A.) No. 6770, otherwise known as “The 
Ombudsman Act of 1989 , was enacted to enable the Office of the Ombudsman to function 
and orgamze itself in accordance with the constitutional provisions and to exercise powers for 
the effective deterrence of corrupt activities by public officials and employees.
However, the powers provided under R.A. No. 6770 to the Office of the Ombudsman 
are not still enough to efficiently combat corruption. The investigative and prosecutorial 
powers of the Ombudsman must be broadened to enhance its ability to build solid cases 
against erring public officials and employees.
Prosecutors and investigators of the Office of the Ombudsman should be given legal 
protection and immunity from suits for acts done in line with their duties. Furthermore, there 
is a need to grant additional investigative and prosecutorial powers to the Office of the 
Ombudsman. These include the leeway to employ wiretapping in especially meritorious 
cases; the power to issue subpoena and subpoena duces tecum to compel the compulsory 
attendance of any witness or the production of evidence; the authority to inquire into bank 
and non-bank accounts, records and transactions; and the power to punish for contempt. All 
these powers will enable the Office of the Ombudsman to effectively and efficiently fulfill its 
constitutionally-mandated duty.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES ) 
First Regular Session)
W : ' ( @ K i r e  of »he>»Trr»3ri{
*16 
JUL 26 
A 9 :47
SENATE 
SENATE BILL NO. 892
K V ■ ■
INTRODUCED BY SENATOR JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO
AN ACT
EXPANDING THE PROHIBITED ACTS OF DISCRIMINATION AGAINST 
WOMEN ON ACCOUNT OF SEX, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE ARTICLES 
135 AND 137 OF PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 442, AS AMENDED, 
OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE "LABOR CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES"
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The role of women in nation-building is recognized in all democratic 
countries. It cannot be disputed that they make enormous contributions in economic 
developments, whether as entrepreneurs or employees. As such, the state has to 
ensure that their rights are adequately protected.
As embodied in the 1987 Constitution, "the State recognizes the role of 
women in nation-building, and shall ensure the fundamental equality before the law 
of women and men."
However, existing measures for their protection against discrimination and 
exploitation are not sufficient to ensure that women are free from unfair treatment at 
the workplace.
This bill seeks to ensure that employment policies on promotion, benefits and 
termination are free from gender-based discrimination. It is specifically crafted in 
line with the principle that employment for women should be dealt with on the basis 
of merit.