bettergovph/raw-philippine-data huggingface dataset:
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f'1 139 
FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC ) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
1 
First Regular Session 
) 
S E N A T E  
S No. 
782 
Introduced by Senator Ramon Bong Revilla, Jr. 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Human resources are the most important source of wealth and income for 
the country, and the education of our children and youth is the most important 
investment that we can make for their future. Paragraph 2, Sec. 2 Article XIV if 
the Constitution clearly echoes this value as it provides: 
"(The State shall) establish and maintain a system of free public 
education in the elementary and high school levels. Without limiting 
the natural right of parents to rear their children, elementary 
education is compulsory for all children of school age." 
In order to safeguard every child's access to free education and ensure 
the implementation of this constitutional provision, this bill provides for the 
establishment of an elementary school in every barangay in the country, to be 
placed under the supervision of the Department of Education (DepEd) and to be 
funded from appropriations of the DepEd under the General Appropriations Act. 
Education is the best legacy we can make to the next generation. It is an 
investment which assures us of the best returns in terms of having adequately 
skilled work force that is ready and fully equipped to take on the global 
competition. 
In view of the foregoing, early passage of this bill is earnestly requested. 


1 
2 
3 
4 
5 
6 
7 
8 
9 
I O  
FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC ) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
7 JUI. -3 
P I  :3!4 
First Regular Session 
1 
S E N A T E  
S No. 
782 
Introduced by Senator Ramon Bong Revilla, Jr. 
AN ACT 
PROVIDING FOR THE FULL IMPLEMENTATION OF THE CONSTITUTIONAL 
PROVISION ON FREE ELEMENTARY EDUCATION AND APPROPRIATING 
FUNDS THEREFOR 
Be it enacfed by the Senate and House of Representatives of the 
SECTION 1. There shall be established, under the supervision of the 
Philippines in Congress assembled: 
Department of Education (DepEd), an elementary school in every barangay in 
the country. 
SEC. 2. Appropriations. -The funds necessary for the implementation 
of this Act shall charged to the appropriations of the Department of Education 
under the current General Appropriations Act. Thereafter, such sum as may be 
necessary for its continued implementation shall be included in the annual 
General Appropriations Act. 
SEC. 3. Effectivity. -This Act shall take effect fifteen (1 5) days after its 
complete publication in two (2) newspapers of general circulation 
Approved, 
1
FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPJNES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
4 
JUL -3 Ail a9 
SENATE 
RECEIVED BY: 
S.B. No. 715 
Introdnced by Senator Ramon Bong Revilla, Jr. 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
This hill seeks to grant civil service eligibility to contractual and co-terminus 
government employees who have rendered a total of five (5) years of efficient service. 
At present, there are many hardworking government employees who have 
continuously rendered loyal service to the government but are not able to secure a 
permanent appointment in their respective offices for the mere fact that they lack the 
merit the appropriate civil service eligibility. It is unfortunate that these individuals, who 
have otherwise proven adept in their line of work he deemed ineligible for the very 
position and job that they have been doing for a long period. &I examination that is 
accomplished in a couple of hours cannot accurately measure an individual's capacity or 
subsequent incapacity to work for our government. It is the years in service that more 
truly hone a person's skills and capabilities. 
An individual who has continually worked in a government office for a period of 
at least five years should be considered proficient enough in his work and be given the 
security of tenure that he or she has earned. 
It is for this reason the urgent passage of this bill is sought 


FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF TKE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
7 JUL -3 All :09 
I' 
.I 
SENATE 
RECEIVED BY: 
S.B.No. 7 1s 
Introduced by Senator Ramon Bong Revilla, Jr. 
AN ACT 
GRANTING CIVIL SERVICE ELIGIBILITY TO CONTRACTUAL AND CO- 
TERMINUS GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES WHO HAVE RENDERED A 
TOTAL OF FIVE YEARS OF EFFICIENT SERVICE, AND FOR OTHER 
PURPOSES. 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the Hozrse of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. All government employees as of the approval of this Act who are 
holding career civil service positions appointed under contractual or co-terminus status 
who have rendered at least a total of five (5) years of efficient service may be granted the 
civil service eligibility that will qualify them for permanent appointment to their present 
positions or other positions in the government in the case of co-terminus employees. 
The Civil Service Commission shall formulate performance evaluation standards 
in order to determine those contractual or co-terminus employees who are qualified to 
avail themselves of the privileges granted under this Act. 
The civil service eligibility herein granted may apply to such their positions as the 
Civil Service Commission may deem appropriate. 
SECTION 2. The Civil Service Commission shall promulgate the rules and 
regulations to implement this Act consistent with the merit and fitness principle within 
ninety (90) days after effectivity. 
SECTION 3. All laws, decrees, and executive orders inconsistent with this Act 
are hereby repealed or modified accordingly. 
SECTION 4. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days from the date of its 
publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
S.B. 27 
Introduced by Senator Aquilino Q. Pimentel, Jr. 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
* 
There is an imperative need to conduct a cadastral survey of 
the entire country to identify the bonafide landowners or claimants. 
This undertaking is necessary in order to curb the proliferation of fake 
land titles. 
This is the proposal contained in this piece of legislation, 
authorizing the Land Management Bureau to undertake the cadastral 
survey. 
Landowners must be protected against defective land titles. 
The integrity of the Torrens Title System, as foundation of ownership 
to real property, must be enhanced, so that in the end, the faith and 
reliance of the people in the integrity of the land title will be restored. 
The passage of this bill is therefore earnestly requested. 
AQUILINO Q. PIMENTEL, JR. 


- 
Introduced by Senator AqUilinQ Q. Pimeratel, Jr. 
AN ACT AUTHORIZING THE LAND MANAGEMENT BUREAU TO 
CONDUCT A SURVEY OF CADASTRAL LOTS IN THE ENTIRE 
COUNTRY, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR 
Be it enacted by the House of Representatives and Senate of the 
Philippines in Congress Assembled: 
SECTlONl. TITLE. This Act shall be known as the "Cadastral 
Survey Act of 2007". 
SECTION 2. CONDUCT OF SURVEY. Any provision of law or 
regulations to the contrary notwithstanding, the Land Management 
Bureau, is hereby authorized to conduct a survey of the entire country 
to identify bonafide landowners or claimants. 
The survey shall 
consist of the following activities: 
1. Research and reconnaissance 
2. Project control recovery and densification 
3. Computation of lot data 
4. Political boundary surveys 
5. Computation and cartographic works 
6. Setting of cadastral lots and boundary 
7. Plans finalization and submission 
SECTION 3. 
AWARDING OF CONTRACTS. 
The Land 
Management Bureau may, subject to applicable bidding rules and 
regulations, award any survey contract under this Act to qualified 
geodetic engineers engaged in survey work with the most 
advantageous terms to the government. 
SECTION 4. 
IMPLEMENTING RULES AND REGULATIONS. 
Within three (3) months from the passage of this Act, the Land 
Management Bureau shall draw and adopt the required rules and 
regulations to govern the cadastral survey. 
SECTION 5. APPROPRIATIONS. The amount necessary for the 
implementation of this Act shall be included in the budget of the Land 
Management Bureau. Thereafter, such amounts shall be included in 
the annual General Appropriations Act. 


SECTION 6. REPEALING CLAUSE. All laws, executive orders, 
executive issuances or letters of instructions, or any part thereof, 
inconsistent with or contrary to the provision of this Act, are hereby 
repealed, amended or modified accordingly. 
SECTION 7. SEPARABILITY CLAUSE. If, for any reason, any 
section or provision of this Act shall be declared unconstitutional or 
invalid, the other parts thereof not affected thereby shall remain valid. 
SECTION 8, EFFECTIVITY CLAUSE. This Act shall take effect 
fifteen (15) days after its publication in the Official Gazette or at least 
two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
FOURTEENTH CONGRESS 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
4 Jub-3 A952 
First Regular Session 
1 
SENATE 
f+EC&iLVED BV : 
SBN No. 
650 
Introduced by Senator JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Civil Code, Article 952, mentions a charge c. a legacy or a devise 
upon an heir. The basis for this power to make a charge against the heir is the 
presumed continuation of the personality of the deceased. 
However, an heir is no longer the continuation of the personality of the 
deceased. An heir does not assume responsibility for the obligations of the 
decedent. As a rule, legacies and devises are a charge or a burden upon the 
estate itself, unless the testator expressly burdens a particular heir, legatee or 
devisee with their payment. 
This bill seeks to amend Article 952 to remove a misleading prevumption. 
The urgent approval of this bill is thereby recommended. 
AGGOY~JERCITO
ESTRADA 
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FOURTEENTH CONGRESS 
1 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
7 a - 3  A952 
First Regular Session 
1 
SENATE 
SBN No. 
650 
Introduced by Senator JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
AMENDING REPUBLIC ACT NO. 386, ALSO KNOWN AS THE CIVIL CODE 
OF THE PHILIPPINES. ARTICLE 952 
Be it enacfed by the Senafe and fhe House of Representatives of the 
Philippines in Congress assembled: 
Section I. 
The Civil Code, Article 952, is hereby amended to read as 
follows: 
"Article 952 - The heir[, charged with a legacy or devise] or 
the executor or administrator of the estate, must deliver the very 
thing bequeathed if he is able to do so and cannot discharge this 
obligation by paying its value. 
Legacies of money must be paid in cash, even though the 
heir or the estate may not have any. 
The expenses necessary for the delivery of the thing 
bequeathed shall be for the account of the heir or the estate, but 
without prejudice to the legitime". 
Section 2. Separability Clause. - If any provision or part hereof, is held 
invalid or unconstitutional, the remainder of the law or the provision not otherwise 
affected shall remain valid and subsisting. 
Section 3. Repealing Clause. -Any law, presidential decree, or issuance, 
executive order, letter of instruction, administrative order, rule or regulation 
contrary to, or inconsistent with, the provisions of this Act is hereby repealed, 
modified, or amended accordingly, 
Section 4. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days 
after its publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. MANNY VILLAR 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Natural calamities such as earthquakes, typhoons, volcanic eruptions and 
floods, have often been the cause of widespread and massive losses and 
destruction, ultimately resulting in serious economic dislocation to their victims. 
To those who sustain economic prejudice due to losses or destruction caused by 
these calamities, we must grant a reasonable deduction from their tax liabilities 
within a specified period as a means to alleviate the adverse economic 
conditions affecting them and to accelerate the pace of their economic 
rehabilitation. 
While taxes are the lifeblood of the government (Commissioner vs. 
Pineda, 21 SCRA 105) and while the government depends upon taxation to 
serve the people for whose benefit taxes are collected (Vera vs. Fernandez, 89 
SCRA 199), the government must appropriately show its sensitivity to its vital 
and fundamental duty to safeguard and promote the public welfare thru 
reasonable legislative measures which will help alleviate serious economic 
dislocations. 
The passage of this bill is earnestly requested. 
MANNY 
~ 
V LLAR 


.t @ATE 
W& O F  THE SE 
* 
FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
S E N A T E  
Senate Bill No. __ 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. MANNY VILLAR 
AN ACT 
PROVIDING PROVISIONAL RELIEF TO CERTAIN VICTIMS OF TYPHOONS, 
EARTHQUAKES, VOLCANIC ERUPTIONS OR OTHER SIMILAR DISASTERS 
BY GRANTING SPECIAL DEDUCTIONS FROM INCOME AND REAL 
PROPERTY TAXES IN THEIR FAVOR 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the 
Philippines in Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, any 
person, natural or juridical, whose immovable property was lost, totally or partially 
destroyed by a typhoon, earthquake, volcanic eruption or similar natural 
calamities shall be allowed to deduct the total amount of the loss or destruction 
from his or its income and real property tax liabilities up to a period of five (5) 
years from the time of the loss or destruction; Provided, That the immovable 
property mentioned herein shall refer only to residential lands and buildings, 
commercial and industrial buildings, agricultural lands together with the plants 
and growing fruit trees thereon, and permanently installed machinery intended by 
the owner of the building or structure for an industry or business which may be 
carried on therein. 
SECTION 2. The Commissioner of the Bureau of Internal Revenue shall, 
within thirty (30) days from the effectivity of this Act, promulgate rules and 
regulations necessary to implement the provisions hereof. 


SECTION 3. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its complete 
publication in the Official Gazette or in at least two (2) national newspapers of 
general circulation whichever comes earlier. 
Approved.
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FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
) 
7 
jl:' -2 !-) 
'" 
L JL. 
I i,.;~ii 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
) 
S E N A T E  
f{E<XW&C> l:v 
..".,..- 
Senate Bill No. 5 6 2 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
When Executive Order No. 209, also known as the Family Code of the 
Philippines was enacted, there was an omission in Article 73. This omission 
totally varied the provision, its application and effects. As it now stands, Article 73 
departs from the intent of the framers of the Family Code. 
This bill seeks to restore in Article 73, the original language proposed and 
approved by the Code Commission as found in the 8 November 1986 Committee 
Meeting Minutes. It also seeks to restore a thoroughly studied provision which 
best serves the needs of our countrymen. 
In view of the foregoing, immediate approval of this proposed measure is 
earnestly solicited. 
Qenator 


FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
- 
~ 
.!U! 
-;I i) 
i; '~ 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
, 
,
I
/
'
 
First Regular Session 
1 
Senate Bill No. 562 
I 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
AMENDING EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 209, ALSO KNOWN AS THE FAMILY 
CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES, ARTICLE 73 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. The Family Code as amended, Article 73 is hereby amended 
"Art. 73. Either spouse may exercise any legitimate profession, 
occupation, business or activity without the consent of the other. The latter 
may object only on valid, serious, and moral grounds. 
to read as follows: 
In case of disagreement, the court shall decide whether or not: 
(1) The objection is proper; and 
(2) Bene fit has occurred to the family prior to the objection or 
thereafter. If the benefit accrued prior to the objection, the resulting 
obligation shall be enforced against the COMMUNITY PROPERTY. 
IF BENEFIT ACCRUED THEREAFTER, SUCH OBLIGATION 
SHALL BE ENFORCED AGAINST THE separate property of the 
spouse who has not obtained consent. 
The foregoing provisions shall not prejudice the rights of creditors 
who acted in good faith. (1 17A)" 
SEC. 2. Repealing Clause. - Any law, presidential decree or issuance, 
executive order, letter of instruction, administrative order, rule or regulation 
contrary to or inconsistent with, the provisions of this Act is hereby repealed 
modified or amended accordingly. 
SEC. 3. Separability Clause. - If any provision or part hereof is held 
invalid or unconstitutional, the remainder of the law or the provisions not 
otherwise affected shall remain valid and subsisting. 
SEC. 4. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days 
after its publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
1 
3 JlJl. -2 
? i! : I !  
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
) 
L,, 
,, 
S E N A T E  
Senate Bill NO. 4 8 7 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The country is presently facing increased levels of environmental 
degradation - air and water pollution, deforestation and the dumping of toxic 
water - that the Government must take the initiative to meet the challenge it 
presents. 
It is for this reason that the bill seeks to establish a Committee on 
Environmental Protection in each local government legislative council in order 
that each Sanggunian can definitely focus itself on the conditions of each region 
as each has diverse characteristics peculiarly its own. Also, the enactment of 
this legislation will open awareness to the importance of protecting the 
environment not only for the survival of plants and wildlife but importantly to the 
health and welfare of the human race. 
In view of the foregoing considerations early passage of this bill is 
earnestly sought. 
-enator 


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FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
1 
First Regular Session 
) 
9 Jiil -2 pfj ::(l 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
MANDATING THE CREATION OF A COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENTAL 
PROTECTION IN EACH LOCAL GOVERNMENT LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION I. 
It is hereby mandated that a Committee on Environmental 
Protection shall be created in each Sangguniang Panlalawigan, Sangguniang 
Panglungsod and Sangguniang Bayan to address legislation in the said 
legislative bodies related to all environmental protection matters. 
SECTION 2. This Act shall take effect upon its approval. 
Approved,
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FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
7 JU. -2 17 i :! ii 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
1 
First Regular Session 
) 
S E N A T E  
'
I
 
Senate Bill No. 3 6 4 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Republic Act No. 7160, otherwise known as the Local Government Code, 
authorizes the Legislature to undertake review of said Code, with the primary 
objective of providing a more responsive and accountable local government 
structure. 
This proposed measure seeks to further institutionalize local autonomy by 
strengthening the fiscal autonomy of local government units (LGUs), by giving 
greater leeway in the choice of their depository bank. 
National government agencies have interpreted differently the preference 
over government-owned banks as depository banks. One interpretation is such 
that a local government unit shall choose only one (1) depository bank, whether 
the Land Bank of the Philippines or the Development Bank of the Philippines 
within its area of jurisdiction. 
On the other hand, a rural bank may accept deposits of local government 
notwithstanding the presence of government-owned banks within the locality 
concerned, on the condition that such rural banks are duly authorized by the 
Monetary Board of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. 
The passage of this bill is earnestly sought. - 
GGOY JERCITO ESTRADA 
-enator 


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FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
First Regular Session 
) 
7 JUI- -2 
R1 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
I “  +- 
flECE3WELS BY 
S E N A T E  
Senate Bill No. 3 6 4 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JlNGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
PROVIDING FOR GREATER FISCAL AUTONOMY IN FAVOR OR LOCAL 
GOVERNMENT UNITS (LGUs) IN THE CHOICE OF DEPOSITORY BANKS, 
AMENDING SECTION 311 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7160, OTHERWISE 
KNOWN AS THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT CODE OF 1991 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Section 31 1 of Republic Act No. 7160 is herby amended to 
read as follows: 
“Sec. 31 1, Depository Accounts. - Local treasurers 
shall maintain depository accounts in the name of their 
respective local government units with banks DULY 
ACCREDITED AS SUCH BY THE BANGKO SENTRAL NG 
PILIPINAS [preferable government-owned] located in or 
nearest their respective areas of jurisdiction. Earnings of 
each depository account shall accrue exclusively thereto.” 
SEC 2. 
All laws, executive orders, presidential decrees, rules and 
regulations or parts thereof which are inconsistent with any of the provisions of 
this Act are hereby repealed or modified accordingly. 
SEC 3. This Act shall take effect fifteen (1 5) days after its publication in at 
least two (2) daily newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
”7 J!., -3 /,\j(i:;,:ti 
First Regular Session 
1 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Revised Penal Code, Article 39, 1’‘ paragraph provides: 
“If the convict has no property with which to meet 
the fine mentioned in paragraph 3 of the next 
preceding Article, he shall be subject to a 
subsidiary personal liability at the rate of one day 
for each eight pesos, x x x” 
It is clear that if the convict has no property to pay the fine, he will have to 
suffer subsidiary imprisonment at the rate of one day for each P8.00 which he 
cannot pay. 
The rate for subsidiary imprisonment is no longer realistic considering that 
the basis was the minimum wage prevailing at the time Article 39 of the Revised 
Penal Code was amended by Republic Act No. 5465 in April 1969. To conform 
with the current minimum wage, the rate for subsidiary imprisonment must be 
increased from P8.00 to at least P350.00. 
This proposed amendment will inure to the benefit of the convict. From a 
measly sum of P8.00, his subsidiary imprisonment will now be at the rate of one 
day for each P350.00 which he cannot pay. It means a considerable reduction of 
number of days of subsidiary imprisonment in the event a convict does not have 
a property to pay the fine. 
Hence, this bill seeks to adjust the amount of subsidiary imprisonment that 
a convict has to suffer from “one day for each P8.00” to “one day for each 
P350.00 which he cannot pay. 
Immediate enactment of this bill is earnestly sought. 
(___)Senator 


INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
AMENDING ACT NO. 3815, ALSO KNOWN AS THE REVISED PENAL CODE, 
AS AMENDED, ARTICLE 39, IST PARAGRAPH, ON SUBSIDIARY PENALTY 
Be if enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of fhe Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Article 39, first paragraph of Act No. 3815, also known as the 
Revised Penal Code, as amended, is hereby amended to read as follows: 
"Article 39. Subsidiary penalty - If the convict has no 
property with which to meet the fine mentioned in paragraph 3 of 
the next preceding Article, he shall be subject to a subsidiary 
personal liability at the rate of one day for each [eight] THREE 
HUNDRED FIFTY pesos, subject to the following rules: 
x x x" 
SEC 2. Separability Clause. - If any provision or part hereof, is held 
invalid or unconstitutional, the remainder of the law or the provision not otherwise 
affected shall remain valid and subsisting. 
SEC 3. Repealing Clause. - All laws, presidential decrees or issuances, 
executive orders, letters of instruction, administrative orders or rules and 
regulations, which may be inconsistent with this Act shall be deemed repealed, 
amended or modified accordingly. 
SEC 4. Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days following 
its publication in two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
"7 
Jj\! -2 
I' 
i: 
: 
First Regular Session 
) 
Senate Bill No. 5 5 2 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Civil Code, Article 867, paragraph 2, does not allow an absolute or 
temporary prohibition by the testator in the disposition of the estate "beyond the 
limit fixed in Article 863." Likewise, paragraph 3 makes reference to the limit 
prescribed in Article 863. But no such period is provided by Article 863. Instead, it 
is Article 870 which provides the period limiting the prohibition on alienation to 
twenty (20) years. 
This bill amends Article 867 so that it would correctly refer to Article 870 
In view of the foregoing, early passage of this bill is earnestly requested 


FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
1 7 
\1tj\- -2 
P O  :i 1: 
First Regular Session 
) 
AN ACT 
AMENDING REPUBLIC ACT NO. 386, ALSO KNOWN AS THE CIVIL CODE 
OF THE PHILIPPINES, ARTICLE 867 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. The Civil Code, Article 867, is hereby amended to read as 
follows: 
"Article 867. The following shall not take effect: 
Fideicommissary substitutions which are not made in an 
express manner, either by giving them this name, or 
imposing upon the fiduciary the absolute obligation to 
deliver the property to a second heir; 
Provisions which contain a perpetual prohibition to 
alienate, and even a temporary one, beyond the limit fixed 
in Article [863] 870; 
Those which impose upon the heir the charge of paying to 
various persons successively, beyond the limit prescribed 
in Article [863] 870, a certain income or pension; 
Those which leave to a person the whole or part of the 
hereditary property in order that he may apply or invest 
the same according to secret instructions communicated 
to him by the testator." 
1) 
2) 
3) 
4) 
SEC 2. Separability Clause - If any provision or part hereof, is held 
invalid or unconstitutional, the remainder of the law or the provision not otherwise 
affected shall remain valid and subsisting. 
SEC 3. Repealing Clause - Any law, presidential decree, or issuance, 
executive order, letter of instruction, administrative order, rule or regulation 
contrary to, or inconsistent with, the provisions of this Act is hereby repealed, 
modified, or amended accordingly. 


SEC 4. Effectivity Clause - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days 
after its publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
7 
-3 P1 :lo 
FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
1 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
1 
S E N A T E  
S.B. NO. 
764 
Introduced by SENATOR COMPANERA PIA S. CAYETANO 
EXPLANATORYNOTE 
The Family Code of the Philippines, which took effect on August 3, 1988, 
pegged the maximum value of the family home exempt from execution, forced 
sale or attachment at P200,OOO.OO in the rural areas and P300,OOO.OO in the 
urban areas. 
Thirteen years have elapsed since the effectivity of the Family Code, and 
This bill seeks to augment the maximum amount of the family home 
exempt from execution, forced sale or attachment and thereby safeguard a very 
basic right under the law. 
In view of the foregoing, the early passage of this bill is earnestly 
such amounts have been rendered unrealistic by the current real estate prices. 
requested. 
CO fit 
PA ERAPI %P 
S.CAYETAN0 


FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
1 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
) 
7 JUL-3 P130 
RECIEIVEQ W : 
S E N A T E  
S.B. NO. 764 
Introduced by SENATOR COMPANERA PIA S. CAYETANO 
AN ACT 
INCREASING THE MAXIMUM VALUE OF THE FAMILY HOME EXEMPT 
FROM EXECUTION, FORCED SALE OR ATTACHMENT, AMENDING FOR 
THE PURPOSE ARTICLE 157 OF THE FAMILY CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES, 
AS AMENDED 
Be it enacted by the Senafe and the House of Representatives of the Philippines 
in Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Article 157 of the Family Code of the Philippines, as 
amended, is hereby amended to read as follows: 
“Art 157. The actual value of the family home shall not 
exceed, at the time of its constitution, the amount of [three hundred 
thousand] ONE MILLION pesos (Phpl,000,000.00) 
in urban 
areas, and [two hundred thousand] SEVEN HUNDRED FIFTY 
THOUSAND pesos (Php750,000.00) in rural areas, or such 
amounts as may hereafter be fixed by law. 
In any event, if the value of the currency changes after the 
adoption of this Code, the value most favorable for the constitution 
of a family home shall be the basis of evaluation. 
For purposes of this Article, urban areas are deemed to 
include chartered cities and municipalities whose annual income at 
least equals that legally required for chartered cities. All others are 
deemed to be rural areas.” 
SECTION 2. This Act shall take effect fifteen days after its publication in 
the Official Gazette or in at least (2) national newspapers of general circulation, 
whichever comes earlier. 
Approved,
FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
1 
7 \Jj[. -;! i' i :.,(; 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
) 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The government's thrust towards environmental preservation and 
restoration requires the participation of all its implementing units and agencies. 
Although the problem concerning our environment is national in nature, the most 
effective approach would start with a parochial one. 
This bill intends to amend the section in the Local Government Code that 
indicates the appointment of an officer-in-charge of the environmental affairs 
optional. The necessity to make this appointment mandatory is recognized 
because the presence of such an officer in every locality is very important for the 
overseeing, monitoring, and development of the government programs in their 
place of jurisdiction. 
For these reasons, the passage of this bill is earnestly sought. 
I 
u s e n a t o r  


FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
First Regular Session 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
S E N A T E  
Senate Bill No. 475 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
TO STRENGTHEN LOCAL ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION BY MAKING THE 
APPOINTMENT OF AN ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES 
OFFICER MANDATORY FOR PROVINCIAL, CITY AND 
MUNICIPAL 
GOVERNMENTS, AMENDING FOR THIS PURPOSE SECTION 484 (A) OF 
REPUBLIC ACT NUMBERED 7160, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE "LOCAL 
GOVERNMENT CODE OF 1991" 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Section 484 (a) of Republic Act No. 7160 is hereby amended 
to read as follows: 
"SEC. 484. Qualifications, Powers and Duties. - (a) XXX The 
appointment of the environment and natural resources officer is [optional) 
MANDATORY for the provincial, city and municipal governments." 
SEC. 2. This Act shall take effect after fifteen (15) days following its 
publication either in the Official Gazette or a newspaper of general circulation. 
Approved,
FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
1 
7 JIJL -2 
A'; 
? c j  
First Regular Session 
) 
c 
"e 
S E N A T E  
2 
~~~~~j~~~ 
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Senate Bill No. 3 1 2  
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Article 178, paragraph one of the Revised Penal Code (Act No. 3815, as 
amended) punishes any person who uses a fictitious name or a name other than 
his real name publicly in order to: 
a) conceal a crime; 
b) evade the execution of a judgment; or 
c) cause damage to public interest. 
Presently, the penalty imposable to aforementioned crime is only, arrest0 
mayor. This means that any person found to be using a fictitious name for the 
above mentioned purposes may suffer only a possible imprisonment of ONE 
MONTH AND ONE DAY to SIX MONTHS and a fine not to exceed FIVE 
HUNDRED PESOS. Logic dictates that one who would use a fictitious name to 
conceal a crime, or evade an execution of a judgment would involve grave 
offenses (Le. rape or murder). The author submits that the penalty imposable is 
not commensurate to the nature of the offense committed, especially, if the 
perpetrator is guilty of a heinous crime. 
This bill seeks to amend Article T78 of the Revised Penal Code (Act No. 
3815, as amended) by increasing the penalty provided therefore to prision mayor 
in its medium and maximum periods of a fine not to exceed One Hundred 
Thousand Pesos (P100,OOO.OO). 
In the light of the foregoing considerations, passage of this bill is earnestly 
sought. 
ESTRADA 
enator 


FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
) 
3 .ILL -2 c . :. 6 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
) 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
AMENDING ARTICLE 178 OF THE REVISED PENAL CODE (ACT NO. 3815, 
AS AMENDED) BY INCREASING THE PENALTY PROVIDED THEREFOR 
AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES 
Be it enacfed by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Article 178 of the Revised Penal Code (Act No. 3815, as 
amended) is hereby amended to read as follows: 
ART 178. Using fictitious and concealing true name. 
The penalty of [arresto mayor] PRlSlON MAYOR IN ITS 
MEDIUM AND MAXIMUM PERIODS and a fine not to 
exceed [500] ONE HUNDRED THOUSAND PESOS shall be 
imposed upon any person who shall publicly use, a fictitious 
name for the, purpose of concealing a crime, evading the 
execution of a judgment or causing damage 
Any person who conceals his true name and other 
personal circumstances shall be punished by arresfo menor 
or a fine not to exceed 200 pesos. 
SEC 2. Repealing Clause. All laws, decrees, ordinances, rules and 
regulations, executive or administrative orders, and other presidential issuance 
inconsistent with this Act, are hereby repealed, amended or modified accordingly. 
SEC 3. 
Effectivity. This Act shall take effect after fifteen (15) days 
following its publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
1 
9 \I& 
-2 p5 :r : 
First Regular Session 
) 
S E N A T E  
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Senate Bill No. 5 2 4 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Section 4 of Article I I  of the 1987 Constitution states that "No law shall be 
passed abridging the freedom of speech, of expression, or of the press, or the 
right of the people peaceably to assemble and petition the government for 
redress of grievance." 
Although Congress is enjoined from enacting laws which may violate the 
above cited policy, it is not prohibited to legislate laws which will implement and 
put into reality the very intent and spirit of the law. 
The Freedom forum, an international media organization, listed the 
Philippines as the No. 1 country in Asia as far as the record of the number of 
journalists killed in the line of duty since 1980. Coercive means, threats, and 
even killings are utilized in order to curtain the exercise of this freedom. 
In view of the foregoing, protection should therefore be given to this sector 
of society. 
AGGO~EJERCITO 
ESTRADA 
Senator 


FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
L- / I  
7 
JU! -2 PJ ' 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
1 
S E N A T E  
~~~~~~~/~~ 
IPY. L$--*.-* 
I 
Senate Bill No. 5 2 4 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
IMPOSING AN ADDITIONAL PENALTY ON ALL PERSONS WHO SHALL 
THEREAFTER COERCE, INFLICT INJURY OR KILL ANY BONAFIDE 
MEMBER OF THE MEDIA IN THE COURSE OF OR IN THE PEFORMANCE 
OF HIS OR HER DUTIES 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. The penalty of ten ( I O )  years improvement, in addition to the 
penalties prescribed under the Revised Penal Code, shall be imposed upon any 
person who shall threaten, coerce, intimidate, inflict injury or kill any bonafide 
member of the media in the course of or in the performance of his or her duties. 
SEC 2. A bonafide member of the media contemplated in this law shall 
include print and broadcast journalists such as publishers, editors, reporters and 
photojournalists who are actively and directly involved in news and information 
gathering as well as dissemination of the same. 
SEC 3. This Act shall take effect after fifteen (15) days following its 
publication in the Official Gazette or in at lest two (2) newspapers of general 
circulation. 
Approved,
FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
1 
First Regular Session 
1 
S E N A T E  
S. B. No. 
339 
Introduced by Senator JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The tourism industry in the Philippines plays a significant role in the 
country's economy. To maintain and improve the performance of the industry, 
more funding needs to be channeled into tourism promotions, marketing and 
development activities spearheaded by the Department of Tourism. 
This measure aims to provide necessary funds to the Department of 
Tourism by appropriating a portion of the fees collected from all passengers 
departing from all international airports in the Philippines. At present, the 
Department of Tourism is not among the recipients of these fees. 
This bill, if approved, will contribute to the financing of tourism promotions, 
marketing and development activities of the Department of Tourism. 
Approval of this measure is earnestly recommended 
Senator 


FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
1 
S E N A T E  
S. B. No. 
339 
Introduced by Senator JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
APPROPRIATING A PORTION OF THE FEES COLLECTED FROM 
DEPARTING INTERNATIONAL PASSENGERS AT ALL PHILIPPINE 
INTERNATIONAL AIRPORTS TO ACCRUE TO THE DEPARTMENT OF 
TOURISM AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES 
Be if enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION I. Statement of Policy and Objectives. It is hereby declared 
to be a national policy to promote, encourage and develop tourism as a self- 
sustaining economic activity through which foreign currency and employment 
may be generated. 
SEC. 2. Appropriation of Portion of International Airport Fees. Ten 
percent (10%) of the passenger service fee presently being collected from all 
departing international passenger at all the Philippine International Airports shall 
accrue to the Department of Tourism. The said amount will be allocated and 
disbursed for tourism promotions, marketing and development-related projects 
subject to existing budgetary rules and regulations. 
SEC. 3. Implemenfing Rules and Regulafion. The Department of 
Tourism, Department of Budget and Management, Department of Finance, and 
Commission on Audit shall promulgate the rules and regulations for the efficient 
utilization and disbursement of the herein-appropriated portion of the 
International passenger service fee. 
SEC. 4. Annual Report The Secretary of the Department of Tourism 
shall submit an annual report to Congress on the collection and disbursement of 
this fund. 
SEC. 5. Repealing Clause. All acts Decrees, orders, executive orders, 
instructions, rules and regulations or parts thereof inconsistent with the 
provisions of this Act are repealed or modified accordingly. 
SEC. 6. Effectivity. This Act shall take effect fifteen (1 5) days following its 
publication in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation. 
Approved,
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FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
1 
First Regular Session 
) 
7 &!L -2 rJ6::. 
S E N A T E  
Senate Bill No. 5 5 7 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
In the case of Exconde vs. Capuno, 101 Phil 843, the Supreme Court 
ruled that the provision of Article 2180 of the Civil Code applies only to 
institutions of arts and trades and, therefore, the teachers and the heads of 
academic educational institutions cannot be held liable for the negligent acts of 
their students. 
There is no substantial difference between institutions of arts and trades 
and academic educational institutions in so far as concerning the proper 
supervision and vigilance over their pupils or students. Academic teachers are 
not exempt from the duty of ensuring that their students do not commit a tort to 
the detriment of third persons, so long as they are in a position to exercise 
authority and supervision over their students. 
Considering the dissenting opinion of former Justice J.B.L. Reyes and the 
proliferation of not only institutions of arts and trade but also academic 
educational institutions, there would be no sound reason for limiting Article 21 80 
of the Civil Code to teachers of arts and trades only. Hence, this bill seeks to 
include academic educational institutions under the coverage of Article 21 80. 
Hence, the immediate approval of this bill is earnestly requested. 
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FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
7 
JUL -2 1'6 :%i, 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
1 
First Regular Session 
) 
S E N A T E  
Senate Bill No. 557 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
AMENDING REPL~BLIC ACT NO. 386, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE CIVIL 
CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES, ARTICLE 2180 
Be if enacted by fhe Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. The penultimate paragraph of Article 2180, New Civil Code is 
"Lastly, teachers or heads of establishment of arts and trades OR 
ACADEMIC EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS shall be liable for damages 
caused by their pupils and students or apprentices, so long as they remain 
in their custody. " 
hereby amended to read as follows: 
SEC 2. Separability Clause - If any provision, or part hereof, is held 
invalid or unconstitutional, the remainder of the law or the provision not otherwise 
affected shall remain valid and subsisting. 
SEC 3. Repealing Clause - Any law, presidential decree or issuance, 
executive order, letter of instruction, administrative order, rule or regulation 
contrary to or inconsistent with, the provisions of this Act is hereby repealed, 
modified or amended accordingly. 
SEC 4. Effecfivify Clause - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days 
after its publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,
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FOURTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
) 
7 
JUL -2 F'5 :'1." 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session 
1 
S E N A T E  
Senate Bill No. 506 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Election contests are part and parcel of Philippine politics. These are 
mechanisms that provided both parties the forum to present and rebut evidence 
on the outcome of an electoral exercise. These mechanisms are meant to 
safeguard against undeserving candidates from occupying public office. 
Yet this mechanism has often been the tool by some parties to frustrate 
the sovereign will of the electorate. More often than not, election contests drag 
on for years that by the time it nears resolution, the next election for the very 
position under contention is just around the corner. 
This legislative measure seeks to provide a time period for the resolution 
of election contests in relation to municipal and barangay offices. 
Premises considered, the early passage of this legislative measure is 
earnestly sought. 
S~Y-EJERCITO ESTRADA 


/ 
S E N A T E  
Senate Bill No. 
506 
/ 
S E N A T E  
Senate Bill No. 
506 
INTRODUCED BY SEN. JINGGOY EJERCITO ESTRADA 
AN ACT 
AMENDING SECTIONS 251 AND 252 OF BATAS PAMBANSA BLG. 881, 
OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE OMNIBUS ELECTION CODE OF THE 
PHILIPPINES, AS AMENDED, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Sections 251 and 252 of Batas Pambansa Blg. 881, 
otherwise known as the Omnibus Election Code of the Philippines, as amended, 
is hereby amended and joined as follows, thereby deleting said Section 252 
which would read as follows: 
“SEC. 251. HEARING OF ELECTION CONTESTS 
HEARING ON ELECTION CONTESTS IN COURTS OF 
GENERAL JURISDICTION SHALL 
BE COMPLETED 
WITHIN THIRTY (30) DAYS FROM THE DATE OF THE 
PETITION. THE COURTS SHALL DECIDE THE CASE 
WITHIN (30) DAYS FROM THE DATE IT IS SUBMITTED 
FOR DECISION, BUT IN EVERY CASE WITHIN NINETY 
(90) DAYS AFTER ITS FILING. 
ON MUNICIPAL OR BARANGAY OFFICES. - THE 
THE HEARING ON ELECTION CONTESTS IN 
COURTS 
OF 
LIMITED 
JURISDICTION SHALL 
BE 
COMPLETED WITHIN TEN (IO) DAYS FROM THE DATE 
OF FILING OF THE PETITION. THE TRIAL COURTS 
SHALL DECIDE THE ELECTION PROTESTS WITHIN 
THIRTY (30) DAYS AFTER THE FILING THEREOF.” 
SEC. 2. Penalty Clause. - Any officer or personnel of the Commission on 
Elections who shall be found guilty of violating any provisions of this Act shall be 
subject to criminal and administrative sanctions as prescribed by the 
Implementing Rules and Regulations to be promulgated pursuant to this Act. 
SEC. 3. Repealing Clause. - All laws, presidential decrees, issuances, 
orders, rules and regulations or any part thereof inconsistent herewith are hereby 
amended, repealed or modified accordingly. 


SEC. 4. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect after fifteen (15) 
days following the completion of its publication in the Official Gazette or in at 
least two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
Approved,