bettergovph/raw-philippine-data huggingface dataset:
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
JUL 19 P5:56
SENATE 
S. No. 
6 0 9
11
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
TO PROMOTE AND SUPPORT THE DEVELOPMENT AND GROWTH OF THE 
PHILIPPINE 
FILM 
INDUSTRY, CREATING 
FOR THIS 
PURPOSE THE 
PHILIPPINE FILM COMMISSION, DEFINING ITS POWERS AND FUNCTIONS 
AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The State recognizes the role of the Philippine film industry as a potent tool for information 
gathering, dissemination and communication, and as a catalyst of public opinion. Being a 
powerful sector in the country, it is a medium that projects the Filipinos' love for art, as well 
as mirrors our culture and our national identity. More than this, it has a huge impact in 
providing significant contribution to the national economy in terms of employment 
generation and revenues to the government through taxes.
In recognition of the industry's contribution, and in support to the arts, the government 
created the Film Academy of the Philippines, an alliance of various guilds of the movie 
industry, which would oversee the welfare of its members through the provision of subsidies, 
projects and opportunities to develop their knowledge and expertise.1 In 2002, furthermore, 
the government created the Film Development Council that would establish and implement 
the Cinema Evaluation System and an incentive reward system to promote production of 
quality firms; undertake activities to promote our participation in local and international 
market; and develop and promote programs to enhance the skills and expertise of Filipinos, 
among others.
Despite these, however, the local industry is in an evident decline, apparent in the number of 
movies produced. According to the study conducted by the National Statistical Coordination 
Board, the number of movies produced halved during the recent years. From 1960 to 1990, 
the Philippines produced about 140 movies annually. However, from 2000 to 2009, it fell to 
an average of 73 every year2.
1 Information retrieved from http://filmacademyphil.org!?page id=9
■ 2 Information retrieved from http://entertainment.inguirer,net!304SS!phiIippine-film-industry-in-decline
of 
' '**■•>'li
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SEN|T|-n
5.B. No. t ) O U
'16 JUL20 P2 55
K i:r
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT
REGULATING THE PRODUCTION, SALE, USE, RECOVERY, RECYCLING, AND DISPOSAL OF 
PLASTIC BAGS, PROMOTING THE USE OF REUSABLE BAGS, PROVIDING MECHANISM FOR 
THE RECOVERY, COLLECTION, AND DISPOSAL OF PLASTIC BAGS, AND FOR OTHER
PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Circulating online are images and videos of wildlife contending with the tremendous 
amount of plastic invading their homes. Fish with plastic wrapped around their body, sea 
turtles with plastic in their noses, and even birds with their stomachs full of plastic bottle 
caps broke hearts and opened minds to the harmful effects of our consumer-driven society.
Our very own APO Island in Negros, where sea turtles gather, have residents 
regularly cleaning up plastic garbage that wash up from ships and the mainland in order to 
protect the precious marine life in their area that bring livelihood through tourism.
According to the Earth Policy Institute based in Washington, D.C., United States, an 
estimated one trillion (1,000,000,000,000) single-use plastic bags are used each year, at a 
rate of almost two million per minute (2,000,000/min). Oftentimes immediately discarded, 
single-use plastic bags are found in landfills and have become a significant cause of water 
pollution. In addition, plastic bags that are burned adversely impact the environment and 
human health, given the level of toxic chemical content.
This bill aims to facilitate the transition to a complete prohibition of plastic bag use 
at point-of-sale stores, and mandate regulations for its production, collection, and proper 
disposal.
This measure also aims to provide support to affected industries and their workers 
by providing benefits and programs for their transition to more sustainable industries and 
livelihood programs.
1 .L3-Jir *6lfue of tliej?I'll i-iar y
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S. No. 582
'16 
.Ill 19 P5:14
Kl C f
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
STRENGTHENING AND RATIONALIZING THE CAREER SERVICE OF THE 
CONGRESS OF THE PHILIPPINES BY ESTABLISHING A LEGISLATIVE 
CAREER SERVICE AND A LEGISLATIVE ACADEMY AND FOR OTHER 
PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Through the years, the function of Congress has evolved from just plenary work alone, to 
include the conduct of committee hearings and legislative inquiries on various socio­
economic and political issues. Legislative research, bill drafting and administrative 
management are also additional roles that must be performed efficiently in order to 
complement the lawmaking functions of our legislators.
In this manner, there is a need to ensure that the people employed in Congress are able to 
provide administrative and technical support to our legislators. There now arises a need to set 
qualification standards for legislative personnel that must conform not only to Civil Service 
rules but to parliamentary rules, precedents, practices, and traditions, as well.
This proposed measure seeks to establish a Legislative Career Service that would allow the 
admission and training of competent and qualified civil servants in Congress. It also seeks to 
create a Legislative Career Service Board and a Legislative Academy that would ensure the 
recruitment and training of a pool of properly selected and development-oriented legislative 
personnel.
In view of the foregoing, immediate approval of this measure is earnestly sought
A N TO N Y ‘^ N N Y T  F. TR^LANES IV
’ 
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
,, i'l
• . 
o f Mjr J 'p rw  l.i
■16 
AUG-1 
P I . -51
SENATE
r’V;
S B. No. 
956
Introduced by Senator SONNY ANGARA
AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR BENEFITS TO MILITARY DEPENDENTS, CREATING THE 
MILITARY DEPENDENTS WELFARE OFFICE, APPROPRIATING FUNDS 
THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Section 3, Article II of the Constitution declares that “the Armed Forces of the 
Philippines is the protector of the people and the State”, particularly in securing the 
sovereignty of the Philippines and the integrity of its national territory as its main goal.
While we must not overlook the obligation of the State to safeguard our 
sovereignty by modernizing the military, it must be viewed that modernization of our 
Armed Forces cannot be in terms of equipment, facilities, and skills alone but must also 
be accompanied by better and improved benefits for military personnel, most 
importantly their families. It is also the primary concern of the State to grant adequate 
remuneration and benefits for members of the Armed Forces.
In accordance with Constitutional provisions, this measure provides the 
necessary framework of institutionalizing benefits for military dependents and 
emphasizes on increasing benefits on the dependents for health, housing, education, 
among other benefits.
Therefore, expeditious passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
SONNY ANGARA
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
)
First Regular Session
)
'16
■16 
IIIL 28 Anno
S E N A T E
S.B. No. 
912
In tro d u ced  by S en ato r LOREN LEGARDA
AN ACT TO INCLUDE ETHNIC ORIGIN IN THE NATIONAL SURVEY 
CONDUCTED BY THE PHILIPPINE STATISTICS AUTHORITY
Explanatory Note
The 1987 Philippine C onstitution m andates the recognition and prom otion of 
the rights of indigenous cultural com m unities and the development of their 
cultures, traditions and institutions within the framework of national unity and 
development. It enjoins the State to protect the rights of indigenous peoples to 
their ancestral lands to ensure their economic, social, and cultural well-being.
The Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act of 1997 (IPRA) or Republic Act 8371 further 
strengthens this m andate by providing that, “the State shall, with due 
recognition of their distinct characteristics and identity, accord to the m em bers 
of the Indigenous C ultural Com m unities (ICCs)/Indigenous Peoples (IPs) the 
rights, protections, and privileges enjoyed by the rest of the citizenry. It shall 
extend to them  the sam e employm ent rights, opportunities, basic services, 
educational and other rights and privileges available to every m em ber of the 
society.” Moreover, the law recognizes that, “ICCs/IPs have the right to special 
m easures for the imm ediate, effective, and continuing im provem ent of their 
economic and social conditions, including areas of employment, vocational 
training and retraining, housing, sanitation, health, and social security.”
The successful im plem entation of laws, however well m eaning they are, is 
anchored on the possession of relevant and accurate data, which is the basis of 
sound policies th at in tu rn  are translated into effective and targeted action. To 
date, the governm ent, particularly the National Commission on Indigenous 
Peoples (NCIP), relies on estim ates based on outdated figures. More than a 
decade has passed since the recognition of the rights of the IPs through the 
passage of IPRA b u t there is still disaggregated data on the exact population of 
our indigenous brothers and sisters.
This bill seeks to formally include the ethnicity and ethno-linguistic variable in 
our national census. Furtherm ore, it requires th at there be enum erators or 
census data gatherers who are trained by the NCIP on the different ethno- 
linguistic groups all over the country and the proper m anner of asking 
culturally-sensitive questions pertaining to ethnicity. It is only through this 
knowledge th at we can effectively m ake policies th at will truly promote their 
welfare and address their pressing needs. In view of the following, immediate 
passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
LOREN LEGARDA
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session
SENATE 
s.No. 
2 6 8
RECEIVE0\1
BILLS
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto
AN ACT
REDUCING THE COST OF ELECTRICITY FOR NATIONAL GOVERNMENT 
OFFICES BY PROMOTING THE DEVELOPMENT AND UTILIZATION OF SOLAR 
ENERGY IN ALL GOVERNMENT BUILDINGS AND OFFICES, PROVIDING FUNDS 
THEREFOR, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
Explanatory Note
Energy security is a crucial factor in achieving economic development of the society. The 
Philippine government is hard-pressed to fulfill its commitments to de-carbonize the energy 
industry for 450 Scenario1, achieve energy independence and pursue higher electrification rates, 
even as the population continuous to grow at an average of 1.66 percent in 2010 to 2020 and 1.31 
percent in 2020 to 2030.2
Additional pressure comes fi-om rising price of oil worldwide, since oil and other fossil 
fuels will continue to account for our energy consumption until 2020.3 The International Energy 
Agency has predicted world price at USD 128 a barrel in 2035.4 Meanwhile, the Organization of 
Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) Reference Basket projects an average nominal price of 
USD 110 a barrel up to 2020 and then rise to USD 160 by 2035.5
This proposed measure seeks to mandate the Department of Public Works and Highways 
(DPWH), in coordination with the Department of Energy (DOE), to construct Renewable Energy 
(RE) Systems in and retrofit government buildings and offices, by installing Solar Energy 
Systems. Solar Energy is the most abundant renewable energy (RE) resource that can be installed 
and generates power faster. This is in contrast to fossil fuel-based power plants that need a 
minimum of three to five years gestation period.
The solar energy systems to be established shall initially supply at least ten percent of the 
electric power requirements of the government agencies in their respective buildings or offices, 
which shall be gradually increased annually for five years until the established solar energy 
systems are expected to supply fifty percent of the power requirements of all government 
agencies.
According to the RE resource assessment conducted by the DoE, the country’s Solar 
Energy annual potential average is estimated at 5.1 kilowatt-hour (kWh)/m2/day6, which 
represents fuel input that is ffee-of-charge and will not affect our foreign currency reserves as 
imported petroleum and other fossil fuels do. In addition, the production and installation of
International Energy Agency World Energy Outlook 450 Scenario
1
2 Philippine Statistics Authority
3 Department of Energy Supply - Demand Outlook 2013-2020
4 lEA 2035 Energy Outlook
5 OPEC Reference Basket [Saharan Blend (Algeria), Girassol (Angola), Oriente (Ecuador), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of 
Iran), Basra Light (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria^ Qatar Marine (Qatar), Arab Light 
^Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela)]
Department of Energy Renewable Energy; Biomass, Solar, Wind and Ocean http://www.doe.gov.ph/renewable-energy- 
res/biomass-solar-wind-and-ocean
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
SENATE
>
V
T H E
RECEIVED
t e JUL 0 A ?(?01? ml
iJf. 
DATEjUL 
u ^ fU U “
\uJ 
I * o n  
, 
m
^
 TIME: J L 2 i J p  Ca
\
 BY:________ A ' 
/
BILLS &
Senate Bill No. 322
Introduced by Senator Cynthia A. Villar
AN ACT ESTABLISHING A CONTINUING NATIONAL PROGRAM FOR HYBRID AND 
OTHER QUALITY SEEDS PRODUCTION, PROVIDING FUNDS THEREFOR, AND FOR
OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Hybrid rice is a type of rice that has been bred from two different parents. It can significantly 
outyield other rice varieties. The International Rice Research Institute in Laguna is working 
with its partners to develop new improved hybrid rice varieties. Because hybrid rice can 
outyield other varieties of rice, it is a key technology that meets the increasing global demand 
of rice. In the 1970s, China’s hybrid rice breeding program averted an impending famine. 
Today, hybrid rice closes yield gaps evident in many areas. It also raises yield potential. 
Bountiful harvest means that farmers earn higher incomes and rice becomes available and 
affordable to more consumers.
The Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) is set to establish a P2- million rice- seed 
processing facility in Nueva Ecija to help farmers and seed growers in neighboring provinces 
have access to high-quality seeds. The facility, funded by the Korea International Cooperation 
Agency, will house advanced equipment that can process up the 2 tons of seeds per day. It is 
expected to be finished by 2017. The establishment of the facility is intended for the 
processing and distribution of high- quality seeds to Central Luzon and Pangasinan. The Phil 
Rice, quoting the studies, said the adoption of high-quality seeds can contribute a 5- percent 
to 10- percent increase in yield.
Despite the passage of Republic Act No. 3708 otherwise known as the “Seeds Industry 
Development Act of 1992”, there is still a need to promote comprehensive quality seed 
production to farmers and farmer organizations by developing and propagating quality seeds 
for them.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
SENATE
S. No.632
INDEX
BILLS
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
CREATING THE PHILIPPINE TRADE REPRESENTATIVE 
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFORE
OFFICE AND
EXPLANATORY NOTE
In the context of a globalizing world, the Philippines is one of the countries which liberalized 
identified sectors in its economy in order to reach global market while maintaining its local 
industries' advantage. The government has participated in different trade and investment 
agreements with other countries, both as an independent country and as part of trading blocs, 
in an effort to spur economic development in the country.
As the numbers of our country's trade and investment agreements with other countries 
continue to grow, the Philippines, however, lacks a dedicated government agency that 
consolidates and studies the impact of these agreements vis-a-vis our development goals and 
national interest.
This bill, thus, seeks to create the Office of the Philippine Trade Representative which shall 
formulate cross-trade strategy that is cohesive with our development goals in order to 
maximize our country's benefits in agreements that we enter into. This Office will be the 
central agency responsible for all these trade agreements.
Under this bill, it will be mandated to formulate national and domestic priorities, as well as 
trade positions in line with country's economic goals; advise the President and the Congress 
on the impacts of agreements we wish to enter; assert and protect the rights and interests of 
the Philippines under all bilateral, regional and multilateral trade and investment agreements; 
and represent the country in all agreements it wish to enter into.
This measure was filed and approved in the House of Representatives during the 15th 
Congress.
In view of the foregoing, the immediate approval of this bill earnestly recommended.
T — —
ANT0M0N‘S0NNY” f . t r il l a n e s IV
'  
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E  
S. B. NO.
t h e  F>
b y: - 
V
W BILLS * /ioex
In tro d u ced  by SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA
AN ACT PROHIBITING DISCRIMINATION, PROFILING, VIOLENCE 
AND ALL FORMS OF INTOLERANCE AGAINST PERSONS BASED ON 
ETHNICITY, RACE, RELIGION OR BELIEF, SEX, GENDER, SEXUAL 
ORIENTATION, GENDER IDENTITY, LANGUAGE, DISABILITY, OR 
OTHER STATUS
Explanatory Note
The Philippine population is composed of many religious and ethnic 
groups. This diversity, however, has given way to a number of incidents 
on racial and religious discrimination. There exists profiling, a police and 
criminology term that follows the basic sociological science method of 
understanding the complexities of human society by breaking down 
members of a population into groups that share common characteristics. 
Certain crimes, such as terrorism, murder, and kidnapping, are 
sometimes deliberately attributed to a religious affiliation.
Profiling has also resulted in stereotyping, causing minority groups, 
particularly individuals of a certain gender and sexual orientation, to be 
discriminated against in many ways including in employment. An 
obvious prejudice against these groups has sprouted, running counter to 
our countiy’s policy to promote equality and justice.
In recognition of the these issues, this bill seeks to promote a society that 
values the dignity of every human person and guarantees full respect for 
human rights, regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, sex, gender and 
sexual orientation. Society should, therefore, prohibit religious and racial
profiling, effectively penalizing those who commit discriminatory acts 
such as:
• Subjecting a person to unnecessary, unjustified, illegal and 
degrading search; discriminating against a person who is applying 
for a job; or disallowing the entry of a person to an establishment 
open to the public such as a restaurant, shopping mall, or hotel, 
because of religion, color, creed or ethnic identity, the manner of 
clothing, gender or sexual orientation, or the person’s name; or
• Employing religious characterization as words of religious import 
in print and broadcast media when geographic, political, socio­
economic or other distinction might be more accurate.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S. No.
SENATE
92
i</> TIME:
BILLS ft INDEX
w
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” Trillanes IV
AN ACT
TO ESTABLISH THE ARCHIPELAGIC SEA LANES IN THE PHILIPPINE 
ARCHIPELAGIC WATERS, PRESCRIBING THE RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS 
OF 
FOREIGN 
SHIPS 
AND 
AIRCRAFT 
EXERCISING 
THE 
RIGHT 
OF 
ARCHIPELAGIC SEA LANES 
PASSAGE THROUGH THE 
ESTABLISHED 
ARCHIPELAGIC SEA LANES AND PROVIDING FOR THE ASSOCIATED 
PROTECTED MEASURES THEREIN
EXPLANATORY NOTE
In 2007, this representation principally authored in the Senate a proposed measure entitled “An 
Act Defining the Archipelagic Baselines of the Philippine Archipelago, Amending for the 
Purpose Republic Act No. 3046, as Amended by Republic Act No. 5446” or SBN 1467. It was 
eventually substituted by SBN 2699 and became Republic Act No. 9522 on 10 March 2009.
RA No. 9522 amended the provision of RA 3046, as amended by RA No. 5446, and effectively 
defined the archipelagic baselines of the Philippines thereby delineating the boundaries of the 
Philippine archipelago. It runs consistent with the provisions of Article 46 of the United Nations 
Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
The UNCLOS, which entered into force on 14 November 1994, recognizes that “an archipelagic 
state is a group of islands including parts of islands, interconnecting waters and other natural 
features which are closely interrelated that such islands, waters and other natural features form 
an intrinsic geographical, economic and political entity, or which historically have been 
regarded as such". Likewise, under the UNCLOS, an archipelagic state is allowed to draw 
straight baselines joining the outermost points of the outer islands and drying reefs.
Though RA No. 9522 provided the delineation of the archipelagic baselines of the Philippines, it 
failed, on the other hand, to provide and establish the archipelagic sea lanes of the Philippines as 
espoused in Article 53 of the UNCLOS. This proposed measure, therefore, seeks to establish 
archipelagic sea lanes in the Philippines’ archipelagic waters, prescribing the rights and 
obligation of foreign ships and aircraft exercising the right of archipelagic sea lanes passage 
through the established archipelagic sea lanes and providing for the associated measures therein.
In view of the foregoing reasons, the immediate passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
ANT'
^  r>4»—
10 “SONNY” f\ t r il l a n e s  IV
Senator
..^pnatf
^ S l U r t  »
(
I
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Fir.s f Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S. No. 
^  ^
'16 Ja i9  PA:46
f»Y;
______________ Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
TO PROMOTE AND 
DEVELOP THE PHILIPPINE 
MANGO INDUSTRY, 
CREATING FOR THIS PURPOSE THE PHILIPPINE MANGO INDUSTRY 
DEVELOPMENT BOARD, APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR, AND FOR 
OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Hectarage devoted to mangoes increased from 133.8 thousand hectares in 2000 to 136.9 
thousand hectares in 2001. Yet, the value of production fell by 7.6% from PI5.8 billion to 
P14.6 billion. Even then, production grew by 3.7% from 848.32 thousand metric tons in 2000 
to 879.73 thousand metric tons in 2001. 
x
Most mangoes produced in the country are consumed domestically. In 2001, only 5% was 
exported to such markets as Hong Kong, Japan, United States, Singapore, and Netherlands in 
various forms: fresh, dried, puree, juice, and juice concentrate. The potential for expanding 
our exports to the world market is high, and with technological innovations, the mango 
industry has the potential for generating employment and serving as the foundation for agri- 
based industrialization in the countryside.
Yet, the growth of the industry has been hampered by a number of problems, among which
are:
1) limited and unstable supply of quality fruits for exports;
2) inefficient marketing system;
3) lack of post-harvest facilities;
4) lack of standard quality control and its implementation;
5) weak integrated pest management technology;
6) high cost of inputs, tariffs and transport; and
7) stiff competition, especially in the world market.
This bill seeks the creation of the Philippine Mango Industry Development Board which will 
be mandated with the formulation and implementation of a comprehensive medium-term 
development program tor the mango industry. Closer coordination between the government 
and the private sector within the board will contribute to a much more dynamic and 
competitive performance of Philippine mango industry in the world market.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES )
First Regular Session 
)
^RECEIVED%.
dateJUN 3 D 7 n n r z )
TIME: 
/2-
S ENATE
s.b. no. _ 1 5 5
BY;
sBILLS
Introduced by Senator JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO
AN ACT TO PROMOTE THE PROTECTION, CONSERVATION AND REHABILITATION 
OF WATERSHEDS SUPPORTING THE NATIONAL IRRIGATION SYSTEMS (NIS) TO 
GUARANTEE CONTINUING SUPPLY OF WATER FOR AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION 
AND TO INCREASE THE PRODUCTIVITY OF FARMERS TO SUSTAIN FOOD SELF- 
SUFFICIENCY AND PROVIDING THE FUNDING THEREOF.
EXPLANATORY NOTE
WATER is essential to life and all living things. It is undisputable that without 
water, there can be no life. To plants, water is critical for growth and good production. 
Insufficiency in water can lead to low yield, which could affect the food availability and 
sufficiency.
The Philippines is an agricultural country with abundant river systems that can 
supply the water needs of the farming community, but the agricultural sector has 
suffered a continuous and immeasurable loss as drought is abundantly experienced 
throughout the country, and the devastation caused by flash floods and rising levels of 
waters due to excessive surface run off, which could no longer be contained by the river 
systems. What is worst is its recurrence every year without let up. The changing 
weather pattern is being attributed to global warming and climate change, which are 
simplest answer being given every time there is havoc brought about by el Nino and the 
increasing volume of rainfall.
While it may be true that these circumstances are effects of global warming, 
there are also other man made actions that are contributory to the devastations. Man's 
insensitivity to his environment, the uncontrolled use of our forests and watersheds 
resources and the indiscriminate use of land resources that should have been reserved 
for forest use only were some of the other distinct numbers of contributory causes.
"Deforestation and the large scale transformation of the original 
vegetation of the country’s forest to non-forestry purposes, coupled 
with inappropriate land use practices, have in effect disrupted the 
hydrological conditions of watersheds. These have brought about to 
some extent, flash floods and prolonged drought Other adverse 
consequences are accelerated soil erosion, siltation of water bodies 
and reservoirs, and poor water quality. Sedimentation has likewise 
reduced the storage capacity of the country's major reservoirs. These
r \
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
viij 
../ J r U v i i l
of t h d j ? . 
I' itji
‘16 JUL 20 P3 58
SENATE
S.B. No. 684
UIvi:. ?•.. . 
u  r»Y;
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT PROVIDING FOR RURAL EMPLOYMENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM AND 
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREOF
Explanatory Note
It is our directive to ensure that as the Philippine economy grows and thrives, all 
Filipinos grow and thrive together. One of our mandates is to promote inclusive growth and 
spread wealth and opportunity across the country.
As such, we need to take a look at our rural communities and provide opportunities 
to those along the countryside and within our islands, beginning with our least fortunate 
countrymen.
Considering that almost 80% of Filipinos living in poverty reside in our rural areas1, 
we are in urgent need of measures to combat poverty and unemployment beyond our cities 
and urban hubs in the short and long term.
The Rural Employment Assistance Program (REAP) Act is one such policy for the 
short term, which aims to provide heads of poor families in rural areas fair wages for 
temporary unskilled work.
This bill not only addresses the issue of unemployment in rural areas, it also involves 
our less fortunate citizens in nation building as we provide other measures that will help 
them pursue permanent employment.
The REAP Act mandates the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) 
to hire unemployed Filipinos to maintain, build, and rehabilitate shared, public facilities and 
livelihood assets within their community.
Let us bring opportunities, wealth, and capacity to the Philippine islands, especially 
in the countryside. 
Let every Filipino reap the fruits of our positive progress and 
development.
http://www.ruralpovertyportal.org/country/home/tags/philippines
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
' 
<9lfire of 
i f -f .ir t
■16 JUL 21 P3:39
SENATE
s. No. 357
!0  
V
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto
AN ACT
PROVIDING TAX RELIEF TO THE LABOR SECTOR BY EXPANDING THE 
COVERAGE OF EXCLUSIONS FROM GROSS INCOME AND INCREASING THE 
AMOUNTS OF DE MINIMIS BENEFITS EXEMPT FROM TAX AMENDING FOR THE 
PURPOSE SECTIONS 32(B) AND 33 OF THE NATIONAL INTERNAL REVENUE 
CODE OF 1997, AS AMENDED, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
Explanatory Note
This bill seeks to amend Sections 32 and 33 of the National Internal Revenue Code (NIRC) 
of 1997, as amended, as follows:
(a) Excluding from gross income the amounts received by natural and juridical persons 
as indemnity for any loss or injury suffered;
(b) Incorporating a proviso on de minimis benefits into the NIRC of 1997; and
(c) Removing the tax advantage of managerial employees over rank-and-file 
employees on fringe benefits.
The role of human capital in developing the economy has been widely acknowledged. This 
is one of the reasons that Congress has enacted pro-labor laws such as Republic Act No. 9504 
which increased the basic personal exemption and exempted minimum wage earners from the 
payment of income tax. While our current tax system provides for some relief to our workers by 
reducing their income tax burden, it still needs to be enhanced to address other issues and concerns 
besetting the labor sector.
Workers are sometimes compensated in the form of back wages, allowances and benefits 
by virtue of a labor dispute award. While it is clearly stated in Revenue Memorandum Circular 
No. 39-2012 that such renumerations are taxable, other amounts received by the worker as part of 
recoveries for physical and nonphysical injuries or damages obtained due to the dispute should not 
be treated as part of those renumerations. Moreover, other types of d^ages awarded by courts 
should also be explicitly included in the list of exclusions from gross income since these do not 
constitute part of the worker’s rendered service to his employer.
The incorporation of the provision on de minimis benefits lifted from Revenue Regulations 
No. 5-2011 secures its continued implementation by institutionalizing it in the Tax Code. The 
ceiling amounts therein provided, however, are proposed to be adjusted every three years based on 
their current Consumer Price Index (CPI) values.
The proposed removal of the tax advantage of managerial employees over rank-and-file 
employees with respect to fnnge benefits is a move that would reduce the income divide between 
these groups of employees. More than ever, the words of President Ramon Magsaysay that those 
who have less in life should have more in law ring true.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session
)
S E N A T E
S. B. No. 251
DATE
In tro d u ced  by SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA
AN ACT TO PROMOTE A LOW CARBON ECONOMY ESTABLISHING FOR THIS 
PURPOSE THE EMISSION CAP-AND-TRADE SYSTEM IN THE INDUSTRY SECTOR 
TO REDUCE GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS AND PROTECT THE CLIMATE
Explanatory Note
Global warming has reached an alarming stage. 
It is not an understatement that 
increasing amounts of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases are heating up the 
earth’s climate and that inaction could be catastrophic.
Amidst this looming scenario, our economy is growing at a considerable pace. The 
challenge before us then is to accelerate economic growth without compromising the 
state of our environment.
Thus, this bill introduces the concept of “low carbon economy.” The idea is to pave the 
way for a cleaner environment by limiting the release of greenhouse gases by the 
industrial and commercial sector.
Upon consultation with the industrial sector, the Department of Environment and 
Natural Resources, in collaboration with the Department of Trade and Industry, shall 
set a cap on the greenhouse gas emissions of compctnles. To cushion the impact of a 
cap on companies, this bill allows them to trade credits with each other. Allowances for 
greenhouse gas emissions will be issued to companies which, in turn, may be freely 
traded by them tn a market-driven system. 
Companies with excess greenhouse gas 
emissions may buy allowances from the market, while companies with less greenhouse 
gas emissions may sell their allowances to the market. This trading mechanism allows 
for a pseudo-financial market that allows for companies to transact with each other but 
with an additional benefit of maintaining the target emissions in the economy.
The emission cap-and-trade system is a constructive and business-friendly approach to 
countering global warming. Ultimately, a market for companies that emit greenhouse 
gases shall compete to clean up our air.
Undoubtedly, a low carbon economy would accelerate reduction of greenhouse gas 
emission, encourage use of new climate change-related technologies, and ensure 
benefits to consumers from the trading in allowances.
In view of the above, passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
"CORENXEGARDA
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES ) 
F irst R egular Session
SENATE
SENATE BILL NO.
BILLS A INDEX
INTRODUCED BY SENATOR JO SEPH  VICTOR G. EJERCITO
AN ACT TO ESTABLISH AN INTEGRATED SYSTEM FOR 
AGRICULTURE TECHNOLOGY GENERATION AND TRANSFER AND 
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Philippines is one of the pioneers in agricultural industry 
and well-known agricultural country in the world. Having alm ost 32 
percent of land devoted to agriculture, the industry is considered to be 
one of the biggest sectors in the country’s econom y th a t provides not 
only food to people b u t also contributor of em ploym ent. However, 
Sm all farm  holders an d  te n an t farm ers have depended m ainly on the 
traditional subsistence level of farm ing system s, w hich resu lts to 
gradual deterioration of the industry.
M odernization in agriculture sector could resu lt to a more 
efficient and m uch productive farm ing th a t probably would realize to 
generate higher income. 
M odernization is lot essential to the 
Philippines to be able to com pete the trend on international trading.
In spite of extension efforts m ade by different G overnm ent 
institutions and N on-G overnm ent organizations, these farm ers have 
n o t been able to ad ap t to new  agriculture technologies. 
Low 
investm ent 
in 
research 
and 
developm ent 
(R&D), 
inadequate 
generation, and ineffective transfer of agricultural technologies are 
some of the prim ary reasons why the m ajority of sm all and 
m arginalized farm ers have rem ained technologically outdated and 
econom ically powerless.
This bill is in response to the strongly felt need to integrate R&D and 
technology generation and transfer into a  single coherent and 
harm onious national system  dedicated to the socio-economic well­
being of the Filipino farm ers and developm ent of the nation. It aim s to
• /
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S.B. No. 
f  U  f
*16 
JUL 20 P4 -43
K F( I 
!W:
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT
PRESCRIBING THE PHILIPPINE NATIONAL QUALITY INFRASTRUCTURE, RATIONALIZING THE 
NATIONAL QUALITY BODIES, PROVIDING FOR THEIR POWERS AND GRANTING THEM 
FUNCTIONS, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This bill seeks to facilitate the development of a culture of quality through providing 
a sound and effective National Quality Infrastructure that allows the development and 
compliance with increasing quality requirements and that can support the national 
authorities in their mandates for consumer protection, free trade, environmental protection 
and other societal objectives from a technical point of view.
With the imminent development of the ASEAN Economic Community in 2016, the 
capacity of the country to develop more competitive products, services and systems and to 
support industries to show compliance with both internal and external market requirements 
is a top priority to take full advantage of trade flows in terms of socioeconomic growth.
While the country is making great progress in many competitiveness and ease of 
doing business indicators, there is still substantial room for improvement, particularly when 
it comes to facilitating the access of Philippine MSMEs to foreign markets (the 12th edition 
of the Doing Business Reports shows the need for improvement in the trading across 
borders dimension).
A critical aspect of technical development and market access is the capacity of the 
country to implement and show compliance with mandatory and voluntary technical 
requirements. Technical compliance is supported by a number of interlinked activities, many 
of them of voluntary nature, which are usually collectively referred to as the National 
Quality Infrastructure. This includes standardization, accreditation, and metrology.
The need for a coordinated quality infrastructure has been already identified in the 
Philippines Development Plan 2011-2016: The government shall set up a National Quality 
Infrastructure to integrate and coordinate a series of activities involving metrology, 
standardization, testing, and accreditation and certification.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
)
S. No.
SENATE
483
(flifii f (iT (!;r 1'pri ('f,Tr)i
■16 JUL19 All 34
' 1 : 
. 
X  1
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
STRENGTHENING THE FUNCTIONAL AND STRUCTURAL ORGANIZATION 
OF THE COMMISSION ON HUMAN RIGHTS, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The 1987 Constitution envisaged the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) to exist as an 
"independent office". This is indeed necessary if the Commission is to ensure that the State 
performs its duty to respect, protect and uphold the rights of our people.
However, the Commission is usually unable to address the protection of human rights due to 
its failure to prosecute reported cases of human rights violations. This can be attributed to the 
fact that it is tied up by existing law that provides the CHR only investigative and advocacy 
powers.
Recognizing the need for an effective and speedy resolution of all human rights cases filed 
with the CHR, this bill seeks to strengthen the Commission by providing an effective and 
expanded structural and functional organization to meet the demands of human rights cases 
here and abroad. It is hoped that the Commission will be able to efficiently respond to the 
victims of human rights violations and the general public through providing it with 
prosecutorial powers over delineated forms of human rights violations.
In view of the foregoing, immediate approval of this measure is earnestly requested.
A N T O N IO ^^ioN ^' F. T ^ H X A ^ S  IV
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S. No. 
5 6 2
*16 JUL19 P4:47
RFCF.’VfCr RYj
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
REGULATING HARBOR PILOTAGE SERVICES AND THE CONDUCT OF 
HARBOR PILOTS IN ALL PORTS IN THE PHILIPPINES AND FOR OTHER 
PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Pilotage service is one of the important complementary services to vessels in port. The 
Charter of the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), Presidential Decree No. 85, specifically 
Section 6 (a) (viii), vests PPA with the power to control, regulate and supervise pilotage and 
the conduct of pilots in any port district. PPA has promulgated several regulations on pilotage 
in order to implement its mandate and/or to respond to the complaints of both foreign and 
coastwise shipping lines/operators.
The complaints include unsatisfactory or delayed services rendered by some pilots, lack of 
proper equipment and gear overcharging of pilotage fees and the collection of unauthorized 
fees.
At present, pilotage services are solely provided by the members of the Harbor Pilots' 
Association in a pilotage district which is under the United Harbor Pilots' Association of the 
Philippines (UHPAP).
On 3 February 1986, President Marcos signed Executive Order No. 1088 without prior 
consultation with the maritime sector and the PPA. The EO made pilotage services in all 
ports in the country compulsory, and increased pilotage fees by as much as four thousand 
percent (4,000%) for the benefit of UHPAP members, the umbrella organization.
Presently, there is a need to define clearly pilotage services, and to establish in an 
unequivocal manner the basis for the imposition of not less than 10% of government share in 
the gross receipts from harbor pilotage operations.
This bill seeks to provide a mechanism maritime liability of harbor pilots.
In view of the foregoing, early passage of this bill is earnestly requested.
ANTONIO
NY” R TRILIlANES IV
Seiiato^ 
’
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
^rtuittf ■;
o f t h R >
'16 
JUL19 
P 6 :1 8
SENATE
s. No. 625
n \:
Introduced by Senator Antonio ‘‘Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
IMPOSING MORE STRINGENT PENALTIES FOR THE CRIME OF ALARM AND 
SCANDAL, AMENDING FOR THIS PURPOSE ARTICLE 155 OF REPUBLIC ACT 
NO. 3815 OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE REVISED PENAL CODE, AS AMENDED, 
AND FOR OTHER RELATED PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
As of 04 January 2015, at least sixty-two (62) cases of injuries resulting from stray bullets as 
a result of the indiscriminate firing of firearms during the holiday festivities have been 
reported. The violators included policemen, soldiers, security guards and civilians, some of 
whom have even posted pictures of their nefarious acts in social media.
Their victims are mostly innocent bystanders and even people resting in the comforts of their 
own homes. In a number of cases, tragic loss of lives resulted, particularly in the case of the 
young and elderly victims.
So numerous were the cases of injuries resulting from the indiscriminate firing of firearms to 
the extent that Malacanang itself has been prompted to remind the Philippine National Police 
(PNP) about the results of their stray bullet probes.
For its part, the PNP through its spokesperson, P/Chief Supt. Wilben Mayor, has sounded the 
call on the need for tougher penalties against violators, noting that the penalty for alarm and 
scandal, which covers indiscriminate discharge of firearms, is only a maximum fine of 
P200.00 or imprisonment of one (1) to thirty (30) days.
In response to the clamor, the undersigned is proposing the amendment of Article 155 of 
Republic Act No. 3815, otherwise known as the Revised Penal Code, to substantially increase 
the penalties for crime alarms and scandal, which covers indiscriminate discharge of firearms.
Under this bill, the fine for the offense shall be increased from the then maximum amount of 
P200.00 to a minimum of PI0,000.00 and to a maximum of P40,000.00. Likewise, the 
penalty of incarceration shall be increased from arresto menor (i.e., one [1] day to thirty [30] 
days) to arresto mayor (i.e., one [1] month and one [1] day to six (6) months).
In addition, in order to further discourage this deadly practice, the firearm license(s) and/or 
permit(s) to carry of the offender, if any, may be cancelled and/or revoked and/or he can be 
charged with illegal possession of firearm.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
FIRST REGULAR SESSION 
)
of Ills^IrrtTr’.irjj
*16 JIJL26 A 9 57
SENATE
SENATE BILL NO.
i!i .■■■■jv'rn nv:
901
INTRODUCED BY SENATOR JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO
AN ACT
EXEMPTING FROM TAX ALL ALLOWANCES AND BENEFITS GRANTED TO 
PUBLIC SCHOOL TEACHERS, INCLUDING THOSE IN THE STATE 
COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Teachers make a lasting impact to the Uves of their student. They are the one 
who encourages us to strive for excellence. Despite their importance, we seldom give 
them recognition, more so, monetary rewards. On the contrary, in terms of salary 
and benefits, they have one of the lowest compared to other profession.
At present, there is a great demand now for pubhc school teachers in the rural 
areas. However, the difficulties of life in the rural areas, such as in transportation, 
lodging or insurgency problem, to mention only a few, have discouraged teachers to 
be employed there.
Thus, it is the sincere belief of the imdersigned that with this privilege of tax 
exemption on salary, more new teachers will be encouraged to accept teaching jobs 
in remote areas, where usually vacancy of temporary nature exists. This is because 
public school teachers in this category either will get an equal take home pay or a 
regular public school teacher may even get more than due to the savings they get 
from being tax exempt.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
'16 
JUL18 P5-58
S E N A T E
S. B. No. 38.1
U1 
KF. K !) 
—
In tro d u ced  by SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA
AN 
ACT 
ENSURING 
EQUAL 
POWERS 
OF 
ADMINISTRATION 
AND 
ENJOYMENT OF COMMUNITY PROPERTY OR CONJUGAL PARTNERSHIP 
BETWEEN SPOUSES, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE ARTICLES 96 AND 
124 OF THE FAMILY CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES
Articles 96 and 124 of the Family Code of the Philippines as currently written 
effectively grant to one spouse—the husband—the power to exercise the final 
decision in all family m atters including the adm inistration and enjoym ent of 
comm unity property or conjugal partnership property. R ather than grant both 
spouses equal authority to decide, or require m ediation in cases where there is 
no consensus, the provisions allow society to perpetuate an inequality whereby 
a m an’s judgm ent is treated as superior to th at of a woman.
This bill seeks to ensure th at both spouses have an equal hand in m anaging 
m atters of family life, by requiring the consent of both spouses in the 
adm inistration 
and 
enjoym ent of their joint property, 
w hether under 
comm unity property or conjugal partnership. In case of disagreem ent, either 
spouse may bring a case before the court for proper remedy w ithout prejudice 
to an out of court settlem ent or availm ent of the alternative dispute resolution.
In order to address this outright gender bias, passage of this bill is earnestly 
requested.
Senator