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HOUSE BILL No. 7891

Introduced by REPRESENTATIVE VIRGILIO S. LACSON

EXPLANATORY NOTE

The COVID-19 pandemic forces us to rethink the way we conduct our affairs. It brought new
needs for the improvement and digitalization of government services. As we transition to the
new normal, we envision a government that remains fully functional and mobilized even at
‘uncertain times.

When lockdowns were imposed, certain services of the government were greatly affected. For
instance, drivers’ license renewal applications are postponed, law enforcement clearances arc
suspended, OFW deployments are deferred. For months, some government functions were
stalled to the disadvantage of the public.

Even when the restrictions were eventually lifted, many government agencies are still
scrambling to adapt and to execute their mandates while ensuring the safety of their personnel
and their stakeholders. It is the responsibility of the State to expeditiously resume its
governmental functions while implementing precautionary measures, such as disinfection and
decontamination activities, social distancing policy, conduct of health status checks among
employees, modification of work hours, among others. But our efforts must not stop there. We
are challenged to evolve in our practices constantly.

This bill seeks to institutionalize alternative appearance, through teleconferencing or
videoconferencing, as a valid form of appearance before government agencies — which, at
present, only recognize personal appearance as the acceptable means. While there is no
replacement for personal appearance as the best option, we need to be open to the use of
teleconferencing/videoconferencing as a secondary method to empower agencies to function
even in times of crisis. This bill likewise aims to provide a better experience for the people in
terms of government services. Considering as well that many are still reluctant to go out, the
allowance of alternative appearance will consequently improve public participation.

We must remain steadfast in our mission to give fast, reliable, and innovative service to the
public, and in light of the foregoing, the passage of this bill is earnestly sought.

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HON. VIRGILIO $. LACSON
Manila Teachers Partylist

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EIGHTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE )

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES )
Second Regular Session
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
HOUSE BILL No.7893

——————— es
Introduced by REPRESENTATIVE VIRGILIO S. LACSON

AN ACT
INSTITUTIONALIZING TELECONFERENCING AND
VIDEOCONFERENCING AS ALTERNATIVE APPEARANCE OF
PERSONS BEFORE GOVERNMENT, ITS AGENCIES, AND
INSTRUMENTALITIES

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

Section 1. Short Title. - This Act shall be known as the "Alternative Appearance Act of
2020.”

Section 2. Declaration of Policy. —Itis hereby declared the policy of the State to reaffirm
the “No Contact Policy” of the government in its dealing with its constituents. To this end, it shall,
continue to improve transparency, efficiency of its governance, and convenience for all stakeholders
and Filipinos, by utilizing alternative avenues for dealings with the government such as
teleconferencing, video conferencing, and other possible arrangements without necessity for contact;
and to protect confidential information processed and utilized in connection therewith.

Section 3. Coverage. — This Act shall apply to all government offices and agencies
including local government units (LGUs), government-owned or controlled corporations and other
government instrumentalities, whether located in the Philippines or abroad, that provide services
covering business and non-business-related transactions.

Section 4. Definitions. — As used in this Act, the following terms shall be defined —

(1) “Alternative appearance” refers to an appearance before a covered government office by
means of telecommunications and/or computer technologies;

(2) “Government” refers to the government, its agencies and instrumentalities.

Section 5. Alternative Appearance Program. — Covered government offices shall offer
alternative appearance to its constituents and persons whom it deals with; to allow persons to comply
with personal appearances, submission of documents, and other such requirements of said government
office, which would otherwise necessitate their physical appearance. For this purpose, the provision
of the Republic Act no. 9485, otherwise known as the Anti-Red Tape Act of 2007, shall have
suppletory effect.


Section 6 Data Privacy and Protection. - The covered government office shall ensure
Drotection of data used and processed of persons electing alternative appearance for othiein purposes.
site government office shall educate employees handling sensitive personal informmatins ofall relevant
laws conceming data privacy and protection. For this purpose, the provisions ofthe Data Privacy Act
of 2012 shall have suppletory effect.

Section 7. _ Implementing Rules. — Within sixty (60) days from the effectivity of this Act,
all concerned government agencies and relevant stakeholders shall issue the appropriate implementing
rules and regulations of this Act,

Section 8. Separability Clause. ~ If any provision or part of this Act is declared invalid or
unconstitutional, the remaining Parts or provisions not affected shall remain in full force and effect.

Section 9. Repealing Clause. ~ All laws, decrees, orders, rules and regulations and other
issuances or parts thereof which are inconsistent withthe provisions of this Act are hereby repealed or
amended accordingly.

Section 10.  Effectivity. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in
the Oficial Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation,

Approved,