Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City

Fifteenth Congress
Third Regular Session

CommutTeE REPORT NO._ 2473

Submitted by the COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC INFORMATION on _ 2.2 NOV 2012

RE: House Bitl No, 6709

Recommending its approval in substitution of House Bill Nos. 4121, 1035 and 3838

Sponsors; Representatives Ben P. Evardone, Teddy A. Casifio, Rufus B. Rodriguez, and Raymond V. Palatino

MR. SPEAKER:

The Committee on Public Information to which were referred House Bill No. 4121 introduced by Reps. Teddy
A. Casifio and Neri Javier Colmenares entitled:

AN ACT REQUIRING THE USE OF SIGN-LANGUAGE INSETS FOR LOCAL NEWS
PROGRAMS, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SECTION 22 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7277, AS
AMENDED BY REPUBLIC ACT 9442;

House Bill No. 1055 introduced by Reps. Rufus B. Rodriguez and Maximo B. Rodriguez Jr. entitled:

AN ACT REQUIRING ALL FRANCHISE HOLDERS OR OPERATORS OF TELEVISION
STATIONS, PRODUCERS OF TELEVISION PROGRAMS, HOME VIDEO PROGRAMS AND.
MOTION PICTURES TO HAVE THEIR PROGRAMS AND FILMS BROADCAST WITH CLOSED-

CAPTION -AND-PROMIDING PENALTIES FOR-HOLATION-THEREOPand-

House Bill No. 3838 introduced by Rep. Raymond V. Palatino entitled:

AN ACT REQUIRING ALL FRANCHISE HOLDERS OR OPERATORS OF TELEVISION
STATIONS, PRODUCERS OF TELEVISION PROGRAMS, HOME VIDEO PROGRAMS AND
MOTION PICTURES TO BROADCAST OR PRESENT THEIR PROGRAMS AND FILMS WITH
CLOSED-CAPTION AND PROVIDING PENALTIES FOR VIOLATION THEREOF,

has considered the same and recommends that the attached House Biti NoO 7 O Qytiea

“AN ACT REQUIRING THE USE OF FILIPINO SIGN LANGUAGE INSETS FOR: LOCAL NEWS
PROGRAMS, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SECTION 22 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7277, AS
AMENDED, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE ‘MAGNA CARTA FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES”

be approved in substitution of House Bill Nos. 4121, 1055 and 3838 with Representatives Teddy A. Casio, Neri
Javier Colmenares, Rufus B. Rodriguez, Maximo B. Rodriguez, Jr, Raymond V. Palatino, and Ben P. Evardone
as authors thereof.



Respectfully submitted:

BEX P. EVARDONE
‘Chairman
‘Committee on Public Information
‘THE HONORABLE SPEAKER
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

QUEZON CITY



REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
QUEZON CITY,

FIFTEENTH CONGRESS
Third Regular Session

HOUSE BIEL No.6708
in substitution of House Bill Nos. 4121, 1055 and 3838

Introduced by Representatives Teddy A. Casiflo, Neri Javier Colmenares, Rufus B. Rodriguez, Maximo B. Rodriguez
Jr, Raymond V. Palatino, Ben P. Evardone. Rodante D. Marcoleta, Rachel Marguerite B. Del Mar, Teddy Brawner
lat, Jr., Jim Hataman-Salliman, Mercedes K. Alvarez, Raden C. Sakaluran, Victorino Dennis M. Socrates, Ma.
Victoria R. Sy-Alvarado, Mark Aeron H. Sambar, Abigail Faye C. Ferriol, Irwin C. Tieng, Niel Benedict A. Montejo,
Cinchona Cruz-Gonzales, Sharon S. Garin, Bemadette R. Herrera-Dy, Rogelio J. Espina, Josefina M. Joson, Leopoldo N
Bataoil, Rodel M. Batocabe, Lani Mercado-Revilla, Rodolfo B. Albano, Lorenzo R. Tafiada III, Roman T. Romulo, Jorge
“Bolet” Banal, Danilo Suarez, Ma. Milagros “Mitos” Magsaysay, Walden F. Bello, Rodolfo W. Antonino, Giorgidi B.

‘Aggabao, Kaka Bag-ao an Emmeline Y. Alipay

“AN ACT
REQUIRING THE USE OF FILIPINO SIGN LANGUAGE INSETS FOR LOCAL NEWS
PROGRAMS, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SECTION 22 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO.
7277, AS AMENDED, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE ‘MAGNA CARTA FOR PERSONS
WITH DISABILITIES”

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

22 of Republic Act No. 7277, as amended. otherwise known as the ‘Magna
is hereby further amended to read as follows:

1 SECTION I. Section
2 Carta for Persons with Disabilitie

“Sec, 22. Broadcast Media, ~ ALL FREE-TO-AIR [T]television stations [shall
be encouraged] ARE REQUIRED to provide [a] FILIPINO sign language insetS,

events of national

TWO (2) new
significance.”

st programS a day and special programs cove

8 THE FREE-TO-AIR TELEVISION STATIONS MAY LIKEWISE OPT TO
9 PROVIDE FOR FILIPINO SIGN LANGUAGE INSETS IN OTHER PROGRAMS
0
1

SUCH AS THOSE PERTAINING TO CULTURAL AFFAIRS, LIVELIHOOD AND
THOSE CATERING TO CHILDREN.

12 SEC. 2, Repealing Clause. ~ All laws, decrees, letters of instruction, resolutions, orders, ordinances
13 or parts thereof which are inconsistent with the provisions of this Act, are hereby repealed, amended, or
14 modified accordingly

SEC. 3. Effectivity. ~ This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its complete publication in at
16 least two (2) newspapers of national circulation.

17__ Approved.

—_——AND-WHERE-POSSIBLE,-CLOSED-CAPTION-or-subtitles-in—at_least—fone-(1)]———_______.

Fi sign language sub bill attached to CR


Republic of the Philippines
1 REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City

FIFTEENTH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

HOUSE BILL No. 4i2i

Tntroduced by Reps. TEDDY A. CASINO and NERI JAVIER COLMENARES

EXPLANATORY NOTE

Concerned with the welfare of persons with disabilities, the State affirms and mandates the
rebabilitation, self-development and integration of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) into

mainstream society through Republic Act No.7272 ye-the Magna Carta for Persons with
Disabilities. Through the said law, television stations are encouraged to use subtitles or sign-
Janguage interpreters in their newscast programs, However, it can be observed that none of
the major Metro Manila news programs are regularly using subtitles or sign-language insets
in their reports, Some regional stations are actually utilizing sign language insets with the
help of non-government organizations. Unformunately, their mother stations do not practice

the same.

With around a million PWDs, including those who are deaf, there is a long-standing yet
unheeded call to use subtitles or sign language on TV. Without these aids, those who are
heating-impaied are deprived of timely and relevant information that broadcast news

provides

It should also be considered that less than 5% of the reported 120,000 hearing-impaired are
litetare or have received any form of schooling, according to the Philippine Deaf Resource
Center. This is why Filipino sign language is preferred over captions.

RSH CIS PORE mt orccestbleterthehentis
impaired. It may also pave the way for more captioned or sign-language interpreted
programs in the furure.

Ipproved,

A. Gi

TEDDY A. CASINO NERI JAWER COLM
Bayan Muna Party-list \. Baya Muna Party-list



Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE.OF REPRESENTATIVES _

FIFTEENTH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

HOUSE BULL No, __ 4121

Introduced by Reps. TEDDY A. CASINO and NERI JAVIER COLMENARES

AN ACT
REQUIRING THE USE OF SIGN-LANGUAGE INSETS FOR LOCAL NEWS
PROGRAMS, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SECTION 22 OF REPUBLIC
ACT 7277, AS AMENDED BY REPUBLIC ACT 9442

ier Congress assed $$$

SECTION 1. Shor! Titk, — This Act shall be known as the “Sign-language insets for News
Programs Act of 2011.”

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of The Phi

SECTION 2. Declaration of Poli. — Ieis the Goverament’s concem and responsibility to
make telecommunications and mass media available to persons with disabilities for their
rehabilitation, self-development and self-reliance as provided by Republic Act No. 7277
the “Magna Carta for Pezsons with Disabilities” and the Philippine Constitution which
upholds the right to information.

SECTION 3. Section 22 of Republic Act No. 7277 or the “Magna Carta for Person with
Disabilities,” as amended by Republic Act No. 9442, is hereby amended to read as follows:

22 Broadcast Media — ALL LOCAL television stations shall be
REQUIRED to provide a sign-language inset, AND IF POSSIBLE,
beitles in at least TWO (2} newscast programs a day and special

programs covering events of national significance.”

SECTION 4. Consttwionality. - Should any provision of this Act be declared invalid or
unconstitutional, the validity or constitutionality of the other provisions shall not be affected
thereby.

SECTION 5. Repeating Clawe. — All laws, decrees, letters of instructions, resolutions, orders,
(ces or parts thereof which are inconsistent with the provisions of
repealed, amended, or modified accordingly

SECTION 6. Effin. — This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in
two (2) newspapers of general circulation.

Approved,



REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City, Metro Manila

FIFTEENTH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

House Bill No. 8838

Introduced by Kabataan Party-List Rep. Raymond V. Palatino

EXPLANATORY NOTE

‘The Magna Carta for Persons with Disabilities states
“Disabled persons have the same rights as other people to take their proper
place in society. They should be able to live freely and as independently as
possible. This must be the concern of everyone—the family, community and
all government and nongovernment organizations.”

Television and motion pictures are undeniably today’s top sources of information
and entertainment. According to Nielsen Media Research, television remains the Filipinos’
preferred medium of getting their daily dose of information, whether in terms of news
content or advertising, Despite this, television and cinema remain inaccessible to Filipinos
with hearing impairment, as most television programs and films do not have closed
captions or subtitles that can help deaf persons to fully comprehend the content of news

and entertainment programs and films.

This bill seeks to require the broadcast of television programs and showing of
motion pictures and other audio-visual presentations with closed caption and providing
paired
ing or subtitling of television, home

penalties for violation thereof as a fitting response to the needs of hearing ji

individuals. Closed-caption is a method of cap!

leo programs and films for hearing-impaired or foreign language viewers without
interfering with the normal television picture and films, by coding captions as vertical
interval data signal which is decoded at the receiver and superimposed on the
television picture or on films of motion pictures.

In view of the foregoing, the passage of this bill is earnestly sought. p yt

Hon. Raymond V. Palatino
Representative, Kabataan Party-List


© @ 2 ousene

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28

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City, Metro Manila

FIFTEENTH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

House Bill No._3838

Introduced by KABATAAN Party-list Rep. Raymond V. Palatino

AN ACT
REQUIRING ALL FRANCHISE HOLDERS OR OPERATORS OF TELEVISION STATIONS,
PRODUCERS OF TELEVISION PROGRAMS, HOME VIDEO PROGRAMS AND MOTION
PICTURES TO BROADCAST OR PRESENT THEIR PROGRAMS AND FILMS WITH
CLOSED-CAPTION AND PROVIDING PENALTIES FOR VIOLATION THEREOF

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

SECTION 1. Declaration of Policy. - It is hereby declared the policy of the State to
ensure that the needs and well-being of persons with physical infirmities will be
given particular attention by providing them the equal opportunity to have access
to information on matters of public concern and enjoy life as a person without

physical impairment does.

SECTION 2. Definition of closed-caption. — As used in this Act, closed-caption shall
mean a method of captioning or subtitling of television, home video programs and
films for hearing-impaired or foreign language viewers without interfering with the
normal television picture and films, by coding captions as vertical interval data
signal which is decoded at the receiver and superimposed on the television picture
or on films of motion pictures.

SECTION 3. Closed-captioning of new programs and motion pictures. ~ All franchise
holders, owners or operators of television stations, producers of television
programs, home video programs and motion pictures shall be required to have their
programs and films with closed-captions in order to benefit persons with hearing
impairment. Provided, however, that the words of the close-captioning will be in the
language spoken in the same program.


15
16
"
18
19

20

at

22

23
24
25
26
2”
28
29
30
31

33
34
35

SECTION 4. Penalties. - Any franchise holder or operator of television stations,
producer of television programs, home video programs and motion pictures, who
shall violate the provision of Section 3 shall be punished by a fine of not less than
fifty thousand pesos (P50,000.00) nor more than one hundred thousand
pesos (P100,000.00) or by imprisonment of not less than six (6) months nor
more than one (1) year or both such fine and imprisonment at the discretion of
the Court.

In case the offender is a corporation, partnership or association, or any other
juridical person, the president, manager, administrator, or the person-in-charge of
the management of the business shall be liable therefore. In addition, the license
or permit to operate its business shall be cancelled.

If the offender is an alien, in addition to the penalties herein prescribed, he shall,
after service of sentence, be deported without further proceedings on the part of the
Bureau of Immigration.

SECTION 5. Implementing Rules and Regulations. - The National
‘Telecommunication Commission and the Movie and Television Review and
Classification Board, in consultation with concerned agencies and entities, shall
promulgate the necessary rules and regulations for the effective implementation of
this Act.

SECTION 6. Separability clause. - If any provision of this Act is hereby declared
invalid or unconstitutional, the other sections or provisions thereof shall not be
affected thereby.

SECTION 7. Repealing clause. ~ All laws, decrees, orders, rules and regulations
and other issuances or parts thereof inconsistent herewith are hereby repealed.

SECTION 8. ffectivity clause. - This Act shall take effect after fifteen (15) days
following its publication in two (2) newspapers of general circulation or in the

Official Gazette.

Approved,


NTH CONGRESS )
UBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES —_}-
EGULAR SESSION )

HOUSE OF

Introduced by Representative Rufus B. Rodriguez and
Representative Maximo B. Rodriguez, Jr.

__ 1055

House Bill No..
EXPLANATORY NOTE

This bill seeks to require the broadcast of television programs and showing of
motion pictures and other audio-visual presentation with closed caption and
~——providing_penalties of violation thereof to respond to the needs of the hearing

impaired individual.

Closed-caption is a method of captioning or subiitling of television, home

video programs and films for hearing-impaired of foreign language viewer without

interfering with the normal television picture and films, by coding caption as vertical

interval data signal which is decoded at the receiver and superimposed on the
28,

television picture or on films of motion pict

With the advances of information technology and the relevance of television
programs, motion pictures, and other audio-visual presentation as tools of learning,
there is a need to enable persons with hearing impairments to take advantage of
such technology and enjoy audio-visual tainments with their seemingly
unbounded innovations,

. This proposed measure aims to address such need by making it compulsory
for all franchise holders of operators of television stations, producers of television
programs, home video programs and motion pictures to have their programs and

films broadcast with closed captions

In view of the foregoing, immediate passage of this bill is earnestly sought.

MAXIMO B. RODRIGUEZ, JR.



REQUIRING ALL_FRANCHISE_HOL!

FIFTEENTH CONGRESS
OF THE PHILIPPINES —
=SSION )

FIRST REGULAR

ENTATIVES

HOUSE OF REPi

Introduced by Representative Rufus 8. Rodriguez and
Representative Maximo B. Rodriguez, Jr.

1055

House Bill No.

AN ACT
S OR OPERATORS OF TELEVISON

STATIONS, PRODUCERS OF TELEVISION PROGRAMS,—HOMEVIDEO _

PROGRAMS AND MOTION PICTURES TO HAVE THEIR PROGRAMS AND
FILMS BROADCAST WITH CLOSED-CAPTION AND PROVIDING PENALTIES

FOR VIOLATION THEREOF
Be It enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines

in Congress assembled!

SECTION 1, ill franchise holders or operators of television stations,
producers of television stations, producers of television programs, home video
programs and motion pictures shall be required to have their programs and films with
closed-captions so as to benefit persons with hearing impairment

caption shall mean a method of captioning or
‘ograms and films for hearing-impaired or
foreign language viewers without interfering with the normal television picture and
films_by coding captions as vertical interval data signal which is decoded at the

‘As used in this Act, closet
subtitling of television, home video

receiver and superimposed on te televistor picture Jilms_ot mation pictures.
ision stations, producer

SECTION 2, Any franchise holder or operator of
of television programs, home video programs and motion pictures, who shall violate
the provision of Section 1 shall be punished by a fine of not less than fifty thousand

12808 (P50,000,00) nor more than one hundred thousand pesos (P100,000.00) or by
(6) months nor more than one (1) year or both such

fion of the Court.

imprisonment of not less than si
fine and imprisonment at the dis:

In case the offender is a corporal
Juridical person, the president, manage
the management of the business shall b
permit to operate its business shall be cai

ator, or the persor
In addition,



lf the offender is an alien, in addition to th
shall, after service of seni t ried-wi
of the Bureau of Immigration.

on the part

tions Commission, in consultation
ification Board and Videogram
sary rules and regulations for the

SECTION 3, The National T
with the Movie and Television Review and C!
Regulatory Board, shall promulgate the nec
effective implementation of this Act.

SECTION 4. If any provision of this Act or the application thereof to any
person or circumstances is held invalid, the other provisions of this Act and the
application of such provision to other persons or circumstances shall not be affected

thereby.

SECTION 5. All laws, decrees, orders, and regulations and other
issuances or parts thereof inconsistent herewith are hereby repealed.
7 This Act shall fake ettect-after-fifteen-{15)_days following its

SECTION 6.
Publication in two (2) newspapers of general circulation or in the official Gaz

whichever comes earlier

Approved



Vou, 108, No. 38

hereby established,
—) of the. Bureau of.
Resources of the
sulture, a marine
the Municipality of
Northern Samar.

y of Agriculture shall
nent's program the
or the establishment
an of the marine
San Jose, Province
vereafler, such sum
/ for its continued
tenance shall be
annual General

ll take effect upon

2007.

Metro Manila, on
neteenth day of
asand seven,

No, 9441]

ARINE RESEARCH AND
IN THE MUNICIPALITY
INCE OF AURORA,
NOS THEREFOR AND
‘nate and House of
f the Philippines in
‘ed

hereby established,
“Or the Bureau of
Resources of the
ulture, @ marine
19 center in the
avince of Aurora

of Fisheries and
he Department of
n with the Province
rized to assist in
lintenance of such
ant as may be
the intents and
this purpose, the
‘ding center shall

5731

SEPTEMBER 3, 2007 OFFICIAL GAZETT:
fc h operating guidelines as shall S.No. 2580
formulate such operating guidelines as shall © No. 2560

be-recommended_by the Department of

‘Agriculture for research and experimentation
on, and the breeding, propagation and
distribution of spawners, fry or fingerlings
of, marine species endemic to the waters
around the Province of Aurora.

Sec. 3.The marine research and
breeding center, with the technical
assistance of the Bureau of Fisheries and
‘Aquatic Resources of the Department of
Agriculture and such other agencies
involved in marine research, shall conduct
continuing research and experimentation on
the culture and propagation of native marine
species especially as they apply to the
peculiarities and characteristics of local
nditions, for the purpose of improving
isting technotogy and-for-maximizing
income potentials of the fishing industry.

Sec. 4. The marine research and
breeding center, with the assistance of the
Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources
of the Department of Agriculture, shall take
such steps as may be necessary to
encourage the culture of marine species
native to the province and thereby promote
and attract investments in this field of
economic endeavor by providing through the
facilities of the breeding component of the
center, the application of the technologies
developed by the research component of
the center and ensure the ready and steady
supply of spawners, fries and fingerlings to
those engaged in this industry.

EC. 5. The Secretary of Agriculture-shall
include in the Department's program the
funding requirements for the establishment
and operationalization of the marine
research and breeding center. Thereafter,
the amount necessary for the continued
operation and maintenance of the center
shall be included in the annual General
Appropriations Act

6. This Act shall take effect upon

its approval.

Approved, April 28, 2007.

“Begun and held in Metro—Manila, on
Monday, the twenty-fourth day of July,
two thousand six.

[RePus.ic Act No,'9442}

AN ACT AMENDING REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7277,
OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE “MAGNA
CARTA FOR DISABLED PERSONS, AND FOR
OTHER PURPOSES"

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

Congress assembled:

SEcTION 1. A new chapter, to be
denominated as “Chapter 8. Other
Privileges and Incentives’ is hereby added
to Title Two of Republic Act No. 7277,

‘otherwise known as the “Magna Carta-for— —

Disabled Persons’, with new Sections 32
and 33, to read as follows’

“CHAPTER 8. Other Privileges and
Incentives

“Sec. 32, Persons with disability shall
be entitled to the following:

(a) At least twenty percent (20%)
discount from all establishments relative
to the utilization of all services in hotels
and similar lodging establishments;
restaurants and recreation centers for the
exclusive use or enjoyment of persons
with disability;

(b) A minimum of twenty percent
(20%) discount on admission fees

charged by theaters, cinema-houses;
concert halls, circuses, carnivals and
other similar places of culture, leisure and
amusement for the exclusive use or
enjoyment of persons with disability;

(c) At least twenty percent (20%)
discount for the purchase of medicines
in all drugstores for the exclusive use or
yment of persons with disability;

(d) At least twenty percent (20%)
discount on medical and dental services
including diagnostic and laboratory fees



5732 OFFICIAL GAZETT!

Vou. 193, No. 36

SEPTEMBER 3, 2007

(a) Persons w.

such as, but not limited to, x-rays,
computerized tomography scans and
blood tests, in all government facilities,
subject to guidelines to be issued by the
Department of Health (DOH), in
coordination with the Philippine Health
Insurance Corporation (PHILHEALTH);

(e)-At-least_twenty percent (20%)

including diagnostic and laboratory fees,
and professional fees of attending doctors
in all private hospitals and medical
facilities, in accordance with the rules and
regulations to be issued by the DOH, in
coordination with the PHILHEALTH;

(f) At least twenty percent (20%)
discount on fare for domestic air and sea
travel for the exclusive use or enjoyment
of persons with disability;

(a) At least twenty percent (20%)
discount in public railways, skyways and
bus fare for the exclusive use and
enjoyment of persons with disability;

(h) Educational assistance to persons

——Wittrtisarbitity-fer-them to pursue primary,

discount on medical and dental services —

issued for the purpose by the Department
of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the
Department of Agriculture (DA); and

(k) Provision of express lanes for
persons with disability in all commercial
and government establishments; in the
absence thereof, priority shall be given
to them.
~The abovementioned-privileges_are
available only to persons with disability
who are Filipino citizens upon submission
of any of the following as proof of his/her
entitlement thereto:

(1) An identification card issued by the
city or municipal mayor or the barangay
captain of the place where the persons
with disability resides;

(ll) The passport of the persons with
disability concerned; or

(lil) Transportation discount fare
Identification Card (ID) issued by the
National Council for the Welfare of
Disabled Persons (NCWDP).

The privileges may not be claimed if
the persons with disability claims a higher

|
|

treated as depen:
35(A) of the Natio
Code, as amen
individual taxpayer
be accorded the pri
code insofar as hay
the same section :

(b) Individuals
institutions est

residential comm

villages solely to
requirements of p
shall be accorded

(i) Realty tax h
years of op

{ii) Priority in
maintenan:
municipal 1
aforesaid
community

Sec. 2. Republic /
amended by insertir
and section after
denominated as Titk
and Sections 39, 40

secondary, tertiary, post tertiary, as well
‘as vocational or technical education, in
both public and private schools, through
the provision of scholarships, grants,
financial aids, subsidies and other
incentives to qualified persons with
disability, including support for books,
learning materials, and uniform allowance
to the extent feasible: Provided, That
persons with disability shall meet
minimum admission requirements;

(i) To the extent practicable and
feasible, the continuance of the same
benefits and privileges given by the
Government Service Insurance System
(GSIS), Social Security System (SSS),
and PAGHBIG—-as-the case may be, as

discount as may be gramted-by—th
commercial establishment and/or under
other existing laws or in combination with

other discount programis.

The establishments may ciaim the
discounts granted in sub-sections (a), (b),
(c). (e), () and (g) as tax deductions
based on the net cost of the goods sold
ar services rendered: Provided, however,
That the cost of the discount shall be
allowed as deduction from gross income
for the same taxable year that the
discount is granted: Provided, further,
That the total amount of the claimed tax
deduction net of value-added tax if
applicable, shall be included in their gross
sales receipts for tax purposes and shall

follows:
‘Ti
Prohibitions o

Ridicule and Vilif
with Disability

“CHAPTER 1
Ridicule

“SEC, 39. Pub,
poses of this Chay
be defined as ar
contemptuous im
ery of persons w
writing, or in wor
their impairment/

are enjoyed by those in actual service’

() To the extent possible, the
government may grant special discounts
in special programs for persons with
disability on purchase of basic
commadities, subject ta guidelines to be

be subject fo properck aHion-and
to the provisions of the National intemal

Revenue Code (NLRC), as amended.”

"Sec. 33. Incentives.—Those caring
for and living with a person with disability
shall be granted the following incentives:

40_No-
community shall
acts of ridicule
disability in any
Could intimidate
esieem of the la


Vot. 103, No. 36 Seprewper 3, 2007" OFFICIAL

GAZETTE

8733

(@) Persons with disability shall be
_trealed as dependents under Section
35(A) of the National internat Revenue
Code, as amended, and 2s such,

by the Department
ry (DTH) and the-- ~~
ture (DA); and

xpress lanes for individual taxpayers caring for them shall
in all commercial be accorded the privileges granted by the
alishments; in the code insofar as having dependents under
ity shall be given the same section are concerned; and
(b) Individuals or nongovernmental
ed privileges are institutions establishing homes,
ons with disability residential communities or retiremet
s upon submission villages solely to suit the needs and
‘as proof of his/her requirements of persons with disability
shall be accorded the following:
ae ed by the (i) Realty tax holiday for the first five
of of the barangay years of operation; and

vhere the persons
(ii) Priority in the building and/or

f th Ue
7” Spee a municipal roads leading to the 7277 is hereby amended to read as follows: —
aforesaid home, residential
1 discount fare community or retirement village.” “Sec. 46. Penal Clause,—(a) Any
D) issued by the person who violates any provision of this
* the Welfare of Sec. 2. Republic Act No. 7277 is hereby Act shall suffer the following penalties:
:WOP). amended by inserting a new title, chapter
and section after Section 38 to be (1) For the first violation, a fine of not
not be claimed if denominated as Title 4, Chapters 1 and 2 less than Fifty Thousand Pesos
(P50,000.00) but not exceeding One

ity claims a higher and Sections 39, 40, 41 and 42 to read as
) granted by the follows:
nent and/or under
fn combination with
ws.

Prohibitions on Verbal, Non-verbal
8 may claim the Ridicule and Vilification Against Persons
ib-sections (a), (b), with Disability

as tax deductions
of the goods sold “CHAPTER 1. Deliverance from Public

‘Title Four

“CHAPTER 2. Deliverance from

For purpOsBs of —
this Chapter. vilification shall be defined
as:

(a) The utterance of slanderous and
abusive statements against 2 person with
disability: and/or

(b) An activity in public which incites
hatred towards, serious contempt for, or
severe ridicule of person with disability."

“Sec. 42. Any individual, group or
community is hereby prohibited from
vilifying any person with disability which
could result into loss of self-esteem of

the latter.” *

fiainterrance—of—provincial_or___sec_3 Section 46 of Republic Act No.

Hundred Thousand Pesos (P100,000.00)
or imprisonment of not less than six
months but not more than two years, or
both at the discretion of the court; and

(2) For any subsequent violation, a
fine of not-less than One hundred
thousand pesos (P100,000.00) but not
exceeding Two hundred thousand pesos
(200,000.00) or imprisonment for not
Jess than two years but not more than

six years, or both al the aiscretiorrof the—

(b) Any person who abuses the
privileges granted herein shall be

2rovided. however, Ridicule
discount shall be 5; = =
rom gross income "Sec. 29. Public Ridicule —For pur-
le year that the poses of this Chapter, public ridicule shall our,
Provided, further, be defined as an act of making fun, or
of the claimed tax Contemptuous imitating or making mock-
lue-added tax if ery of persons with disability whether in

writing, or in words, or in action due to

uded in their gross

urposes and shall DEMIpE

scument
None ee *Sec. 40. No individual, group or
cae aions community shall execute any of these
8 acts of ridicule against persons with

disabilty in any time and place which
Could intimidate or result in loss of self
esteem of the latter.

—Those caring
son with disability
owing incentives:

punished with imprisonment of not less
than six months or a fine of not less than
Five thousand pesos (P5,000.00), but not
more than Fifty Thousand pesos
{P50,000.00), or both, at the discretion
of the court.

{c) If the violator is a corporation,
‘organization or any similar entity, the



OFFICIAL GAZETTE

Vou. 103, No. 36

Sepremser 3, 2007

5734

officials thereof directly involved shall be
liable therefor

(d) If the violator is an alien or a
foreigner, he shall be deported
immediately after service of sentence
without further deportation proceedings.

Upon filing of an appropriate complaint,
and_after_ due notice and hearing, the

cancellation or revocation of the business
permit, permit to operate, franchise and
other similar privileges granted to any
business entity that fails to abide by the
provisions of this Act.”

Sec. 4, The title of Republic Act No. 7277
is hereby amended to read as the "Magna
Carta for Persons with Disability’, and all
references on the said law to “disabled
persons”, shall likewise be amended to read
as ‘persons with disability’

Sec. 5. The Department of Social
Welfare and Development, the National
Council for the Welfare of Disabled Persons,
and the Bureau of Intemal ‘Revenue, in
consultation with the concemed Senate and
House committees and other agencies,

proper authorities may also caUse~the—*

‘SecTioN 1. This Act hereby declares the
Atulayan Island of the Municipality of
Saghay, Province of Camarines Sur as a
national tourism zone.

Sec. 2. Until comprehensive legislation
rationalizing the national tourism program
is adopted, the following principles shall

govern the planning, development,

promation and ‘yanegement of this tourism |

tions, and enter into ac
ment this Act.

Sec. 4. This Act sh
fifteen (15) days of
Publication

Approved, May 09, 4

H, No. 574

zone:

(a) The Department of Tourism (DOT)
and its attached agencies, and the Partido
Development Administration (PDA) shall
coordinate in the formulation of a tourism
development plan for the tourism zone:
Provided, That said plan is consistent with,
or may be integrated into, the national
tourism master plan of the DOT;

(b) The plan shall protect and enhance
the natural features and cultural heritage of
the tourism zone, - while providing
sustainable economic opportunities for the
local community;

(c) The PDA and the relevant

municipalities shall utilize their powers
rovided-under-Republic-Act No 7820, ai

i
|

Begun and held in
Monday, the ni
February, two tho!

[RePusic Act

AN ACT DECLARING THE
COTIVAS, GUINA
MALIBAGAN AND
NORTHEASTERN,
MUNICIPALITY OF ¢
OF CAMARINESS SU.

Be it enacted by the Si
Representatives ¢
Congress assemb

SECTION 1. This Act |
Islands of Lahuy, Cc
Luksuhin, Malibagan
jorthaastern coast of

organizations, estattishments He
formulate an implementing rules and
regulations pertinent to the provisions of this
Act within six months after the effectivity of
this Act. ,

Seo. 6. This Act shall take effect fifteen
(15) days after its publication in any two
hewspapers of general circulation

Approved, April 30, 2007.

H, No, 591

Begun and held in Metro Manila, on
Monday, the nineteenth day of
February, two thousand seven

No. 9444]

amended, and the Local Govemment Code,
respectively, to implement and enforce the
tourism development plan;

(d) The DOT and iis attached agencies
may provide necessary technical and
financial assistance for the development of
tourism infrastructure and skills development
while endeavoring, when practicable, to
promote the tourism zone, both focally and
internationally; and

(e) The DOT, the PDA and the relevant
municipalities shall create a forum by which
the private sector, nongovernment
‘organizations and other interest groups can

interact with one another and the
ni tear phere that

Caramoan, Province of
national tourism zones

Sec. 2, Until compre
rationalizing the nation
is adopted, the follow
govern the plannir
promotion and mane
tourism zones

(a) The Department
and its attached agenc
Development Administ
coordinate. in the form
development plan for tt
Provided, That said pla
or may be integrated
tourism master plan of

Ri

AN ACT DECLARING THE ATULAYAN ISLAND OF
THE MUNICIPALITY OF SAGNAY, PROVINCE:
OF CAMARINES: SUR AS A TOURIST ZONE

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

shall encourage investment and the
development of a culture of tourism,

Sec. 3. The DOT, in consultation with the
PDA and the local government concemed
shall adopt appropriate rules and regula-

(b) The plan shall p
the natural features anc
these tourism zones
susizinable economic ¢
local community;


——
_Magna Carta for Disabled ETS (RA 7277)

General Provisions
Rights and Privileges of Disabled Persons

Employment.

Education
Health
Auxiliary Social Services ..

Telecommunications..

Accessibility
Political and Civil Rights Lod
Prohibition on Discrimination oa Disabled Persons conain16

Discrimination’ on Employment:
sportati

Diserininstot onthe Usd ef Poble Accookmodatods & Services
Final Provisions...

Discrimination'on Tr

Implementing Rules ahd Regulations

Rule L

5
Rule I a 33
Rule til
Rule IV.

Rule V
Rule VI.
Rule Vit
Rule Vill...
Rule 1X.
Rule X...

© Rule XI

‘Republic ofthe Philippince
‘CONGRESS OF THE PHILIPPINES
=" Metro Manila” 7" e

= >" Fitth Regular Session

Begun and held in Metro Manila, on Monday, the twenty-second
‘day of July, nineteen hundred and ninety-one.

‘REPUBLIC ACTNO.7277

AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE REHABILITATION, SELF-DEVELOPMENT
~ AND SELF-RELIANCE OF DISABLED PERSONS AND THEIR INTEGRATION,
INTO THE MAINSTREAM OF SOCIETY AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES

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

‘TITLE ONE- GENERAL PROVISIONS _
CHAPTER 1 - Basic Principle

SECTION 1,” Title. - This Act shall be known and cited as the "Magna Carta
for Disabied Persons.

SECTION 2. Declaration of Policy.- The grant of the rights and privileges
for disabled persops shall be guided by the following principles:

(a) Disabled persons are pan of Philippine society. thus the State shall give full
support to the improvement of the total well-being of disabled persons and
their integration into the mainstream of society. Toward his end, the State
shall adopt policies ensuring the rehabilitation, self-development and self-
reliance of disabled persons. It shall develop their skills and potentials to
enable them to compete favorably for available opportunities.

(b)_ Disabled persons have the same rights's other people 1 take their proper
place in society. They should be able to live freely and as independently
‘as possible. This must be the concem of everyone - the family, community
and all goverment and nongovernment organizations. Disabled persons’
rights must never be perceived as welfare services by the Government.

(©) The rehabilitation of the disabled persons shall be the concern of the
Government in order to foster their capacity to antain a more meaningful,

productive and satisfying life, To reach ut toa greater numberof disabled

‘persons, the rehabilitation services and benefits shall be expanded beyond

the traditional urban-based centers to community based programs, that wil



5" ese ful pattcipation of fren acta supported by national and

eee ees
~~ (Te Ste as reopstens the role ofthe pvate sector in promoting the
‘welfaré of disabled persons and shall encourage partnership in programs

© that address their needs and cancers

() To facilitate integration of disabled persons into the mainstream of soci iety,
the State shall advocate for and encourage respect for disabled persons. The
State shall exert all efforts to remove all social, cultural, economic,
environmental and atitadinal barsiers that are prejudicial to disabled

SECTIONS. Coverage.- This Act shal cover all disabled persons anc, 10
the extent herein provided, departments, offices and agencies of the National
Government or nongovernment organizetions involved in the attainment of the
objectives ofthis Act.

SECTION 4. Definition of Terme. - For purposes of nas Act, these terms are
defined a fllo

(8). Disabled Persons are those suffering from restriction or different abilities,
as a result of 2 mental, physical or sensory impairment, to perform an
activity in the manne or within the range considered normal for = human
being:

() save is any, lox diminution o aberration of psychologic
‘physiological, or anatomical siructure o function;

(©) Disability - stiall mean (1) a physical or mental impairment that
substantially limits of or more psychological, physiological or anatomical
funetion ofan individual ot activities of such jdividual; 2) arecordof such
an impairment; oF ) being regarded as having such an impairment,

(@) Handicap «refers oa disadvantage fora given individual resulting from
‘an impairment or a disability that limits or prevents the function or activi
that is considered normal given the age and sex ofthe individual;

(©) Rehabilitation - isan integrated approach to physic cultural,
spiritual, educational end vocational measures that create conditions forthe
individual to anain the highest possible level of functional abiliy;

(0) Social Barriers - refer to the characteristics of institutions, whether legal,
‘economic, cultural, recreational or other, any human group. community, o¢
society which limit the fullest possible perticipation of disabled persons in
the fife ofthe group. Social barriers include negative atitudes which tend
to single out and exclude disabled persons and which distor roles snd inter-

o ea reese pet
to individuals with hearing impairments;

(@)° qualified readers, tipediests, or other effective methods of delivering

“_matetials to individuals with visual impairments,

ny

@,

(oy)

Reasonable Accommodation include (I)improvemeai of existing facilities
used by employess in order render these reaily sccssible to and usable
by disabled persons; and 2) mogification of work schedules, reassignment
to 4 vacant position, scquisition’or modification of equipment or devices,
appropriate adjustments or modifications of examinations, training
materials of company policies, rules and regulations, the provision of
auitliary aids and services, and other similar accommodations fo disabled,

Sheltered Employment refers to the provision of productive work for
disabled persons through workshops providing special facilites, income-
producing projects or homework schemes with view w giving them the
Spportunty tara living thus enabling them fo acquire a working
apacity required in open indusuy. 3.321 212.209 4
‘Auailiary Social Services are the suppoitive ues inthe delivery of
social services to the marginalized sectors of so
Marplndaca Blabled Peion refer lable pea who lnk cess
to rehabilitative services and opportunities to be ableto participate fully in
socioeconomic activites and who have no means of vetIhod or whose
incomes fall below the poverty threshold:s:!."' =
Qualified Individual with a Disabilicy shall mean an
disability who, with or without reasonable accommodations, can perform
the essential functions of the employment positon that such individual
holds or desires. Howéver, consideration shall be given to the employer's:
Jjudgment as to what functions of a job are essential, and ifan employer has
prepared a written description before advertising or interviewing applicants
for the job, this description shall be considered evidence of the essential
functions ofthe job,

Readily Achievable means a goal can be easily stained and carried out
without much difficulty or expense, In determining whether an action is
readily achievable, factors to be considered include ~

(the nature and cost of the action;,

2) the overall financial resources ofthe facil or faites involved in
the action; the numberof persons employedat sch fality; the effect
fon expenses and resources, ofthe impact otherwise of such action
upon the operation ofthe failing... = :

(8) theoveral financial resources ofthe Coveted ey wih repectio he
sup of employes bemunber, ye and lain! is ses,

(4) thetype of operation o options ofthe covered ety, Ticldig he
“composition, structure and fusictions of the work force of such entity:
ft



4 (6) Publ Tronsportaton means fansporaton by sir re anc
3 rovides the public
Coating basis
(6): Covered eniey means an employe employment
or jin labormanagemen:comenine= and
{) Commerce shall be taken to mean as rvel trade, traffic, commerce,
transportation, of consmunicaion amsng th provinces or between any
foreign country or any titer o possesion and any province

ith general or special service on # regular and

cy. labor organization

TITLE TWO - RIGHTS AND PRIVILEGES OF DISABLED PERSONS
CHAPTER | - Employment

SECTION S. Equal Opportunin for Employment. No disabled person shall
be derlied access to opportunities for suitable employment. A qualified disabled
employee shall be subject tothe same isms and congitions of employment and the
same compensation, privileges, benefits fringe benefits incentives or allowances as
4 qualified able bodied person.

Five percent (5%) of all casual, einergency and contractual posisions in the
Departments of Social Welfare and Development; Health; Education, Cutture and
‘Sporss; and other government agencies, offices or corporations engazed in social
{evelopment shall be reserved for disabled persons.

SECTION, "Shelered Employnent.; If sable employment for disabled
[persons cannot be found through open employment as provided in the immediately
preceding Section, the State shall endeavor to provide it by means of sheltered
‘employment. In the placement of disabled persons in shekered employment, it shall
accord due regardio the individual qualities, vocational goals and inclinations to ensure
4 good working atmosphere and efficent production.

SECTION?. Apprenticeship. - Subject tothe provisions of the Labor Code
48 amended, disabled persons shall be eligible as apprentices of leamers: Provided,
‘That theit handicap is not much as to effectively impede the performance of job
‘operationsin the particular occupation for which they are hired: Provided, further, That
after the lapse of the period of apprenticeship if found satisfactory in the job
performance, they shal be eligible for employment

SECTION 8, Incentives for Employers, -(s) To encourage the active
Participation ofthe private sectar in promoting the welfare of dissbied persons and 10
sure gainful employment for qualified disabled persons, adequate incentives shall
be proyided to private entities which employ disabled persons.

(0) Private enti

or qualifications, ithe as regular employes, apprentice o: learner shall be
\_Eiitled to an additional deduction, from their gross income, equivalent fo
© "Wenty-five percent (254) ofthe total amoun: paid as salaries and wages
1 ledabled penons: Provided, however, That such nities present proof

that employ disabled persons who meet the required skills

Peer eet meee ee ee Te ae

the Deparment of Hah as to his disability, einai

(©) Private cas thar improve or modify their physical facilities i 6rd to
Provide reasonable accommodation for disabled peftons shall also be.
catithed oan adcinional dedction from ther ne taxable income equivalent
to fifty percent (50%) of thadirect costs of the improvements or
modifications. This section, however, does not apply 10 improvements or
‘modifications of facilis required wacker Barns Parnbensa Bilang 34,

SECTION 9: Vocational Rehabilitation: - Consistent wit the principle of
equal opportunity for disabled workers and workers in general, the State shall ake
appropridlé Vocational rehabilitation measures that shall serve 10 develop the skills and
potentials of disabled persons and enable them to compete favorably for available
productive and remunezstive employment opportunities in the labor market.

‘The State shall also take measures to enstire the provision of vocational
‘rehabilitation and livelihood services for disabled persons inthe rural areas. In addition,
it shall promote cooperation and coordination between the government and
nongovernmental organizations and other private entities engaged in vocational
rehabilitation activities

‘The Department of Social Welle and Developiient shall design and implément
training programs that will provide disabled persons ‘with ‘vocational skills to enable
them to engage in livelihood activites or obtain gainful employment. The Department
‘of Labor and Employment shall likewise design and condiict training progranis geared
towards providing disabled persons with skills for livelihood.

SECTION 10, Vocational Guidance and Counseling. - The Department of
Social Welfare and Development, shall implement measures providing and evaliating,
vocational guidance and counseling to enable disabled persons to secure, retain and
advance in employment. It shall ensure the availability and training of counselors and
other suitably qualified staff responsible forthe vocational guidance and counseling of
disabled persons.

SECTION 11, Implementing Rules ond Regulations. - The Deparment of
Lator and Employment shal in coordination wth the Department of Socal Welfare
and Development (DSWD) and Nationat Counc forthe Welfare of Disabled Perons
(NCWDP) shall promulgate the rules and regulations necessary to implement the
provisions under this Chapter.
(CHAPTER 2- Education ee

SECTION 12. Access 10 Quality Education. - The State shall ensure that
disabled persons are provided with adeqiate2¢c#55 19 Guilty education and ample
opportunities to develop their skill. 1t shall take appropriate steps to make such
education accessible to all disabled persone. It shall bE unlawful for any learning
institution to deny a disabled person admission o any course it offers by reason of



IE, MAGNA CAKTA EE DISABLED PERSONS“:

tutions spec
Rothe is of school facies, cls schedules, paysial edu
Sand ocherBenineatconsidersion

“2,, The State shall also promote the provision by Isaming institutions, especially
higher learing institutions, of autian se
for disabled persons.

‘persons with
5 requirements,

that wll facilitate the learning process

SECTION 13, Assistance to Disabled Students. - The State shall provide
financial assistance to economically marginalized but deserving disabled students
pursuing post secondary or tertiary education. Such assistance may bein the form of
Scholarship grants, student loan programs, subsidies, and other incentives to qualified

lisabled students in both public and private schools. At lease five percent (S%) of the
allocation forthe Private Education Student Financial Assistance Program created by
virtue of R.A. 6725 shall be set aside for disabled students pursuing vocational o¢
technical and degree courses.

sgscn SECTION 14. Special Education: - The State shall establish, maintain and
Stppor acomplét, adequate ad integrated system of special education forthe visually
{impaired hearing impaired, mentally retarded persons and other types of exceptional
children in all regions ofthe counny. Toward this end. the Department of Education,
Culture and Sports shall establish special education classes in public schools in ites
‘ormunicipalities. It shall algo establish, where viable, Bralle and Record Libeanes i
provinces, cities or tiumicipaliies.. <¢ sey :

The National Government shall allocate funds necessary for the effective
implementation of the special educatiowrprogram nationwide. Local government units
‘may likewite apprepriate counterpart funds to supplement national funds,

SECTION 1S. Vocational or Technical and Ocher Training Programs
Sate shall provide dbl pesos withing in cvs, vocational efcency. pene
and physical fimess, and other skills. The ‘Deparment of Education, Culture and: Sports
Shall establish n at least one government-owned vocational and technical shen

kal rang program for disabled persons.

SECTION 16, Non.
educa

Colleges.-If viable and nesded the State
in 6: province shall be respansible for (2) the
4nd technical aids for disabled persons; (0) the
for vocational rehabilitation and special education

eee

instructions: and (ey ine researcir om 5
mpaired, hearing-impaired, speech-impaired, and ort
‘mentally retarded, and multi-handicapped
barriers and discriminatio® against disabled
Education for Disabled (SPED) course in

‘The National Goverment shall provi

impaired, and onthopedically-
funds in suppom of the above.

© CHAPTER 3- Heaxh

SECTION 18. National Health Program. - The Depaitment of Health in
inarietf withthe National Council foF the Welfare of Disabled Pe
insite &mationl Melt programy which shall sin fo aan the flowing:

cos

(2) prevention ‘af disabiti whether occiring prenatally or pt hatlly,
(©) recognition and early diagnosis of disability, and

(©) carly rehabilitation ofthe ;
SECTION 19." Rehabilitation Centers. = Ths
establish medical rehabil

‘The Department of Health shall formulate end
marginalized disabled personé to avail of free rehabi
hospitals. of J

‘SEK

at affordable cost,
‘The National Gover
Persons which shal i

le, but not lim

Ape
tiation servic

1ON20. Heath Services. The Stat shall protect and prooote
tohsalh of disbledpeons and shall adops an nicpratedandeomprehensive apyeccoh
tothcichealth development which shall make extential healihserveesavalltleg ar

nt shall provide an integrated health service for disabled
1, the following:

(@) prevention of disability through immunization, nation, e

protection and preservation, and genetic counseling: and early detection of

isability and timely intervention o arrest
(&)_medical meatment and rehabilitation: ~

‘The Deparim

Provision of miedical attention tc

0 disabled persons.

health units have the necessary capobili
disabled persons: SLA as

disabling condicior

paired, speech:
locate the necessary

¢ Deparment of Health shall
enters in govemmest provincial Hoy
include in its anual appropriation ths necessary funds forthe pc

af sich cere

F30ns, shall

I, and shall

ight *



Department of Social Welfare and Development shall develop and implement
programs on auxiliary socal servicesthat respond tothe needs of marginalized disabled
persons. The components of such a program shell be 2s follows:

(@) assistance in the acquisition of prosthetic devices and medical interveition
(of specialty services 5

(©) provision of specialized training activities desiened to improve functional
limitations of disabled persons related to communication skills,

(© evelopment among disabled persons of a positive self-image through the
provision of counsslin. orientation and mobility and strengthening daily
living eapabiliny,

(@)_ provision of family care services geared towards developing the capability

Of families to respond o the needs ofthe disabled members ofthe fami

©), provision of substi family care services and the facilites therefor for

abandoned, neglected, abused and unattached disabled persons who need
custodial care,

(),, provision of after care and follow-up services for the continued
rehabilat ‘based setting of disabled persons who were

SECTION 22. Broadcast Media. -Television stations shall be encouraged to
providea sign language inset or subtitles ina least one (1) newscast program a day and
special programs covering tvents of national significance.

SECTION 23. Telephone Services. - All telephone companies shall be
encouraged to install special telephone devices or units for the hearing-impaired and
ensure that they are commercially available to enable them to communicate through
the telephone system. x

SECTION 24, Free Pos Chrgsfor th Disoied- Pol tages stl
free on the following: ay

(a), utile and ttertures ike bodks and periodicals, oahopédic and other
ied and teaching sis for tb use of the abled se by mail within the
«Palins and abroad and

(0) i 20 hoped devices forthe csabled sen abread by mal fr rep

Provided, That the aforesaid items are for

That personal purposes ony:
futher, Tha the disabled person isa marg pei a ir

lized disabled as cenified by the Social

fare and Development Office of the local government init concerned or the
Dépanment of Sociel Weifere and Development. ‘

CHAPTER 6- Accessibility = i

SECTION 25.” Barrier-Free Environment. - The State shall ensure the
attainment of a barrier-free environment that will enable disabled persons to have
access in public and private buildings and establishments and such other places
‘mentioned in Batas Pambansa Bilang 344, otherwise known as the “Accessibility
Law”

‘The national and local governments shall allocate funds forthe provision of

lites or structural features for disabled persons in governmest

SECTION 26. Mobility. - The State shall promote the mobility of disabled
persons. Disabled persons shall be allowed to drive motor vehicles, subject tothe rules,
and regulations issued by the Land Transporation Office pertinent tothe nature of their
disability and the appropriate adaptations or modifications made on such vehicles.

SECTION 27. Access to Public Transport Facilities. - The Department of
Social Welfare and Development shall develop a program to assist marginalized
Gisabled persons gain access in the use of public transport facilities, Such assistance
may bein the form of subsidized transportation fare.
‘The said department shall also allocate such funds as may be necessary forthe
effective implementation of the public transport prosramn forthe disabled persons.
The "Accessibility Law,” a8 amended, shall be made supplementary tothis Act.

SECTION 28. Implementing Rules and Regulations. - The Department of
Transportation and Communications shall formulate the rules and regulations
necessary to implement the provisions of this Chapter.

(CHAPTER 7 - Political and Civil Rights

SECTION 29. System of Voting - Disabied persons shall be allowed t be
assisted by a person of his choice in voting in the national or local elections. The person
‘hus chosen shall prepare the ballot forthe disabled voter inside the voting booth. The
‘Person assisting shall bind himself in a formal document under oath tofill out the ballot
srrictly in accordance with the instructions of the voter and not to reveal the conients
Cf the ballot prepared by him. Violation ofthis provision shall constiute an election
offense.

Polling places should be made accessible 10 disabled persons during national or
local elections. ‘i

SECTION 30. Right to Assemble. - Consistent with the provisions of the
Constitution, the State shall recognize the right of disabled persons to panicipae in
processions, allies, parades, demonstrations, public mestings, and assemblages or
‘ther forms of mass or concerted ation eld in public.



Tebled persons. Nacional line agencies and local Eovernment ants shall asst
Sfeabled persons in sting up specifi projects that wil be managed Tike business
eae ‘To ensure the active participation of disabled persons in the social and economic
‘evelopment of the country, thei erpanzations sal be encouraged to paicipate in
theplanning. reaction and management of government programs and project fr
inabled pesons. :
‘Organizations of disabled persons shall penicipae in the idesifction and
preparation of programs tha shall sve develp employment opportunities forthe
disabled persons..

* TILE THREE - PROHIBITION ON DISCRIMINATION
"AGAINST DISABLED PERSONS

<1, [2-4 CHAPTER 1 Discrimination on Employment

_« SECTION 32, Discrimination on Employment.~ No entity, whether pubic of

"prt: shll asin ogint a uaied disabled person by reason of diabilty
Pr venard 10 jo8 application procedures, the hiriig, promotion, ot discharge of
ceiployees, employes compensation, job taining, and other terms, conditions, and
privileges of employment. The following constitute acts of discrimination:

(@)_ Limiting, segregating ox classifying a disabled job epplicant in such a
manner that adversely affects his work opportunities;

(@) Using qualification standards, employment tests or other selection criteria
that sereenout or tend fo sree outa dsabled person unless such standards,
{ests or other selection criteria are shown to be job-related forthe postion
in question and are consistent with business necessity,

(6). Uiilizing sandards, criteria, or methods of administration that:

(1) have the effect of discrimination onthe basis of disability, or
@) perpenuate the discrimination of others who are subject to common
administrative conrot
(@) Providing tess compensation, such as salary, wege or other forms of
remuneration and fringe beasts, 0% qualified disabled employes, by
+ +> reason of his disability, than the amount to which a nog-disabled person
=. “peeforming the same work is entitle
= 4 phe (@)” Favoring a noe-dissbled employee overs gislfie disabled employee with

fo promotion training opportunities, study and scholarship grants,

(0 Re-assigning or transferring & disablod employseters job or positic
Go nisin rani ein eles
smissing or terminating the serves ofa disabled em feason
1s dabiliy mist employe can povatestnguin he pasion
Performance ofthe work involvedgo the prejudice ofthe business enti,
Provided, however, Tha the emplayer fist sought to provide reasonable
accommodations for disabled persons,

(8) Failing to select or administer in the mast effective anne eniployment
tests which accurately reflec the skills, aptitude or other factor of the
disabled applicant or employee that such tes perpors to measure, rather
than the impaired sensory, manal or speaking skills of such applicant or
employes, if any: and

= Breluding disabled ersons from membership in labor uoiois or similar
organizations.

SECTION 33. Employmient Entrance Examination. - Upon an ofter of
employment, a disabled applicant may be subjected to medical examination, on the
following occasions: Hee Oe i

(2) allemering employees ae ubjecid to sch an examination ret of

au z : os

(©) information obtained during the medical condition ot history of the

applicant is collected and maintained on separaie forms and in separate
medical files‘and is treated a a confidentia! medical record, Provided,
however Thar "9 =

(1) supervisors and managers mi be jaformed regarding necessary
restrictions on the Work oF duties of the employees and necessary
accommodations:

(2) first aid and safety personnel may be informed, when appropriate, if
the disability night require emergency treatments

9) government officials investigating compliance with this Act shall be
provided relevant information on request and

(@) the results of such examination are used only in accordance with this
Act. z

‘CHAPTER 2- Discrimination on Transportation

SECTION 34. Public Transportation. It shall be consider dscrininaion
for the franchisees or operators and personnel of sea, land, and air transportation
facies to charge higher fare o 1 refuse to convey a passenger his ovhopedi
devices, personal effects, and merchandise by reson otis dabily.

(CRAPTER 3 - Discrimnination on the Use of Public” 2
‘ ‘Accommodations and Services 5." 5% 1%



5 (@)- an inn, heel, mote, or other place of lodging, excep: for an exablishment
located within a building thar contains not more than five (5) rooms for rent

7. asthe residence of such propricior, > =
)_aresaurane, bar, or other esebishment serving food or ink;

(©) amoton picture, heater concert hall, stadium, or the place of exhibition
‘or entertainment,

(@ a auditorium, convension cener, lecture hal, or oter plac of public
gathering:

(©) bakery grcery store, hardware stor, shopping center, or othe stles or
rental establishment,

(®)_abank, barber-shop,beaury-shop, ravel service, funeral parlor, gas station,
office ofa lawyer, pharmacy, insurance office, professional office of a
healthcare provider, hospital or other service establishment,

(@) 2 terminal, éepo,o oher station used for specified public transport

(h) 2 museum, gallery, library or other place of public display or collection;

@)_a park, 200, amusement park, or other place of recreation;

(nur enemy. secondary undergaduseorpos- gaat vate
school oF ater plact of edict

(&). a symnasiu

(), other place

health spa, bowling alley. golf course; oF. «
exercise oF recreations: 5+ ma

SECTION 36.. Discrimination on the Use of Public Accommodations, -(a) No

(or hire and that is actually occupied by the proprictor of such esablisiment ©

@

©

individual with a disability shall not be denied the oppomunity to paticipate
in such programs or activities tha ae not separate or different,
Association -It shall be discriminatory to exclude or otierwise deny equal
‘Rood, services, facilities, advantages, privileges, accommodations or other
‘opportunitis to an individual or entiy because of the known disability of
4h individual with whom the individual or entity is known to have a
‘eitionship or assbtiation,

Prohibitions - For purposes of this Section, the following shall be
considered as discriminatory:

goods, services, facil a pie eae aera
less suc criteria can be shown fo be necessary forthe provision of «

disabled persons shall be discriminaied on the basis of disability in the full and equal
enjoyment of the goods, services, facilities, privileges, advantages or accommodations
‘of any place of public accommodation by any persan ho owns, leases, or operates a
place of public accominodation. The following constitute acts of discrimination:

goods, services, facilities,

~ < a ‘making such modifications would fundamentally alter the nature ofthe |
(1). denying a disabled person, directly or through contractual, licensing, or i ‘g00ds, facilites, services, privilegés, advantages, or accommodations, |
other arrangement, the opportunity to participate in or benefit from the I 9) failure to take such steps as may Be necessary to ensure that no !
‘goods, services, ae iatceleaimetsry ‘or accommodations of an individual with a disability is excluded, denied services, segregated or
‘etity by reason of his disability; otherwise treated differently than other individuals because of the
(2) affording s disable person, on the basis ofhis disability, directly or through absence of auxiliary aids and services, unless the entity can.
contractual, ae or other arran; — ee ieaoeeeany to i ‘demonstrate that taking such steps would fundamentally alter the
Participate in or benefit rom a goad, service, facility, privilege, vantage, 4 vice, facility, privilege, advantage or
of accommodation that is not equal to that afforded to other able-bodied eaice ceo a ‘Als 2 a
persons, and t (4). 2 failure to remove architectural barriers, and communication barriers
) providing a disabled person, on the basis of his disability, directly or iL that are structural in nature, in existing facilities, where such removal.
through contractual, ceasing, o other arrangement, with good, service, i.
‘facility. advantage, privilege, or accommodation that is different or separaie a ©)
from tha provided to other able-bodied persons unles such action is
__ Recessary 0 provide the disabled person with a goed, service, facility, oe

advantage, privilege, or accommodation, or other opportunity that is as
effective as that provided to others

to individuals with disabilities, unless the entity can demonstrate that



ar Sports Cavaero Free of

Ss

SECTIONS. Implementing Rules and Regulations, - The Depastment of
Public: Works andi Ffghways shall formulate the'rles and regulations nenassasy 10
implement the provisions ofthis Chapter.

‘TITLE FOUR: FINAL PROVISIONS -

SECTION 39. Housing Program. - The National Goverament shall take into
consideration in its national shelier program the special housing requirements of
disabled persons,

SECTION 40, Role of National Agencies and Locat Government Units. -
Local government units shall promote the establishment of organizations of disabled
persons in their respective territorial jurisdictions. National agencies and local
‘ovement units may enter into joint ventures with organizations or associations of
disabled persons to explore livelihood oppomtunitizs and other undertakings that shall
‘enhance the health, physical fimess and the economic and social well-being of disabied
Persons. ee

SECTION 41. Support From Nongovernment Organizations. - Non-
ovemment organizations or private voluntcer organizations dedicated tothe purpose
of promoting and enhancing the welfare of disabled persons shall, 3 they. ar hereby
‘encouraged, become partners of the Government in the implementation of vocational
Tehabilitation measures and other related programs and projects. Accordingly, their.
participation in the implementation of said measures, rograms and projects isto be
‘extended all possible suppor by the Government.

‘The Government shall sponsora volunteer service program which shall hamess
the involvement of private individuals inthe provision of assistance to disabled persons.

SECTION 42. Tax/ncentves.- (8) Any donation, bequest. subsidy or financial
aid which may be made to government agencies engaged in the rehabilitation of
disabled persons and organizations of disabled persons shall be exempt from the
donor's tx subject to the provisions of Section 94 ofthe National intemal Revenue
(Code (NIRC), as amended and shall be allowed as deductions from the donor's gross
income for purposes of computing the taxable income subject to the provisions of
Scetion 29 (hy of the Code. Hl

(©), Donations from forcign countries shall be exemp: from taxes and duties on
‘importation subject to the provisions of Section 105 of the Tariff and
Customs Code ofthe Philippines, as amend=d, Section 103 of the IRC.”
85 amended and other relevant laws and international agreements.

(©) Local manufacturing of technical aids and appliances used by disabled
‘Persons shall b considered as a preferred area of investment subject tothe

and incentives as provided in said. Cnd=cuch-es, but noe!
following: ee : a

(1) repatriation of invesunents,

@) reminance of eamings,y ,

(G)_remitance of payments on forcigmcontracts;

(@) freedom from exproprations,

(G)_ freedom from requisition of investment;

© income tax holiday,

(additional deduction for labor expense;

(@) tax and dary exemption on imported capital equipment

(9) tax credit on domestic capital equipmeng
+ -€40) exemption from contractor's tax;

(11) simplification of customs procedures

(12) unrestricted use of consigned equipment;

(23) employment of foreign nationals,

(4) tax credit for taxes and duties on raw materials, 3

(5) access to bonded manufacturinghrading warehouse system

(16) exemption from taxes and duties on imported spare pars; and

(17) exemption front wherfage dues ahd any’ export tax, duty import and

fe : ete

SECTION 43. Continuity Clause, - Should any department or agency tasked
with the enforcement or formulation of rules and regulations and guidelines for
implementation of any provision of this Act is abolished, merged with another
eparment or agency or modified, sch shal hot affect the enforcement formulation
‘ofrules, regulations and guidelines for implementation of this Acttathe effect that

(2) Incase of abolition, the department or agency esabished to replace the
abolished department or agency shall take-over the functions under this Act
Of the abolished department or agency.

(©) In case the department or agency tasked with the enforcement or
formulation of rules, regulations and guidelines for implementation ofthis
‘Act is merged with another department or agency, the formes shall continue

functions under this Ac ofthe merged department or agency,

(©) Incase of modification, the department or agency modified shall continue
the functions under this Act ofthe department or agency thathas undergone
modification: r

SECTION 44, Exforbement by the Seeretary of usc

Denial of Right 5
(1) Duty to Investigate - the Scoretary of Justice shall investigate alleged:
a ‘violations of this Act, and shall undertake periodic reviews: of

Seer S



eo eS eee ee F

z er : : reystlssinemodificteccesimaty: eee eee eet
(any person or group of persons is engaged in a pane or practioe of : 1
discrimination und this Act or - : bs SECTION SG: Eybatetie ~ Teicha stator ateel 9 depeeten
(@)_anyperion or group of persons has been discFimindied against under itspublicaion in any two (2) nenespapersof poretciralaon- |
this Act and such discrimination raises an issue of general public i Z Z i
impomance the Secretary of Justice may commence a legal action‘in ;
any appropriae cour. heii
SECTION 45. Authorizyof Court. - The court may grant any equitable relict I : j
that such court considers to be appropriate, including, tothe extent required by this Act: |
}
(a) granting temporary, preliminary or permanent relief, . ai eke *
(©) providing an auxiliary aid or service, modification of policy, practice or i = ey
>rocedure or alerative method: and i igre
Fig fase ay ss RAMONY. MITRA NEFTALIA.GONZALES
‘Speaker of the House President of the Senate a
‘ E ‘of Representatives.» sus Ws
SECTION 46. Penal Classe: « (a) Any person who violates any provision of a : a ‘
(1) for the first violation, a fine of not less than Fifty thousand pesos I; ‘was finally passed by the Senate and the House of Representatives on: %
(P50,000.00) but not exceeding One hundred thousand pesos and January 16, 1992, respectively. :
(100,000.00) oc imprisonment of not less that six (6) months but not more :
than two (2) years, or both atthe discretion of the court; and. |
(@)  forany subsequent violation, a fine of not less than One hundred thousand I ara e ae
esos (P100,000,00) but not exceeding Two hundred thousand pesos 7
(200,000.00) or imprisonment for not ess than two (2) years but not more i (Signed)
than six (6) years or both atthe discretion of the cour. i (Signed) Onley ee ll
(©), Any person who abuses the privileges granted herein shall be punished with |: CAMILOL SABIO. pa aEaee |
Imprisonment of not ess than six (6) months ora fine of not less than Five i ‘Secretary General
thousand pesos (P5,000.00) but not more than Fifty thousand pesos |: House of Representatives
(30,000.00), oc both, atthe discretion of the cour.
©) Ifthe violutor isa corporation, organization or any similar entity, the i
als thereof directly involved shall be liable there : Approved: March 24, 1992
(2)_ lf the violator isan alien or a foreigner, he shall be deported immediately s
after service of sentence without further deportation proceedings. = 2
SECTION 47. Appropriations. - The amount necessary to carry out the AE -
‘provisions of his Act shall be included in the General A

: pope Aa tie ed eed
following its enactment into law and thereafter. ZI 2 CORAZON C AQUINO

25) president ofthe Philippines
SECTION 48. Separability Clause. - Should any provision of this Act be Pee ret

IE
iE i
‘uncoristitutional by a court of law, such provisions shall be severed from the : at .

found



FACT SHEET
GE
HOUSE BILL No. 8709
(as approved by the Committee)

“AN ACT
REQUIRING THE USE OF FILIPINO SIGN LANGUAGE INSETS FOR LOCAL NEWS.
PROGRAMS, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SECTION 22 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO.
7277, AS AMENDED, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE ‘MAGNA CARTA FOR PERSONS
WITH DISABILITIES”

Introduced by: Reps. Teddy A. Casino, Neri Javier Colmenares, Rufus B. Rodriguez,
Maximo B. Rodriguez,Jr., Raymond V. Palatino and Ben P. Evardone

Committee Referral: COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC INFORMATION
Committee Chairperson: REP. BEN P. EVARDONE

OBJECTIVE:

+ To make television programs more accessible to persons with hearing disabilities

KEY PROVISIONS:

+ Requires all free-to-air television stations to provide Filipino sign language insets,
and where possible, closed caption or subtitles in at least two (2) newscast
programs a day and special programs covering events of national significance.

+ Grants the free-to-air television stations the option to provide for Filipino sign
language insets in other programs such as those pertaining to cultural affairs,

livelihood and those catering to children.

RELATED LAW:

+ Republic Act No. 7277, as amended, otherwise known as the “Magna Carta for
Persons with Disabilities”

Nov. 15, 2012


Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City, Metro Manila
15” Congress
3° Regular Session

MINUTES OF THE MEETING CONDUCTED BY THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC
INFORMATION HELD ON NOVEMBER 13, 2012, 1:30 PM AT CONFERENCE ROOMS 3
AND 4, MITRA BUILDING, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, QUEZON CITY.

MEMBERS PRESENT:

Rep. Ben Evardone, Chairman
Rep. Rodante Marcoleta, Vice-Chairman
Rep. Rachel Del Mar, Vice-Chairperson
Rep. Mercedes Alvarez

Rep, Teddy Brawner Baguilat, Jr.
Rep. Leopoldo Bataoil

Rep. Rodel Batocabe

Rep. Teddy Casifio

Rep. Cinchona Cruz-Gonzales
Rep. Rogelio Espina

Rep. Abigail Faye Ferrio!

Rep. Sharon Garin

Rep. Jim Hataman-Salliman
Rep. Bernadette Herrera-Dy
Rep. Josefina Joson

Rep. Niel Benedict Montejo

Rep. Raymond Palatino

Rep. Raden Sakaluran

Rep. Mark Aeron Sambar

Rep. Victorino Dennis Socrates
Rep. Ma. Victoria Sy-Alvarado
Rep. Irwin Tieng

Rep. Rodolfo Albano

Rep. Lani Mercado-Revilla

EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS AND DEPUTIZED MEMBERS PRESENT:

Deputy Speaker Lorenzo Tafiada II

Deputy Majority Leader Roman Romulo

Deputy Majority Leader Jorge “Bolet” Banal

Minority Leader Danilo Suarez

Deputy Minority Leader Maria Milagros “Mitos” Magsaysay

Rep. Giorgidi Aggabao (deputized by Deputy Speaker Jesus Crispin Remulla)
Rep. Emmeline Aglipay (deputized by Deputy Speaker Daisy Avance-Fuentes)
Rep. Rodolfo Antonino (deputized by Deputy Speaker Pablo Garcia)

Rep. Kaka Bag-ao (deputized by Deputy Speaker Maria Isabelle ‘Climaco)
Rep. Walden Bello (deputized by Deputy Speaker Raul Daza)


AUTHORS PRESENT:

Rep. Juan Edgardo Angara
Rep. Rodolfo Antonino
Rep. Sergio Apostol

Rep. Kaka Bag-ao

Rep. Walden Bello

Rep. Teddy Casifio

Rep. Raymond Palatino
Rep. Rene Relampagos
Rep. Rufus Rodriguez
Deputy Speaker Lorenzo Tafiada Ill
Rep. Sherwin Tugna

OTHER HOUSE MEMBERS PRESENT:

Rep. Luzviminda llagan
Rep. Antonio Tinio

1. CALL TO ORDER
‘The Chairman, Rep. Ben P. Evardone, called the meeting to order at 2:01 p.m.
ROLL CALL

‘On motion of Rep. Apostol, duly seconded, the committee secretary was directed to call the
roll of members. After ascertaining the existence of a quorum, the committee secretary was
directed to identify the ex-officio members and deputized members present

At this juncture, Rep. Luzviminda Ilagan informed the Body that she was deputized by
Deputy Speaker Pablo Garcia for this meeting. Rep. Evardone replied that Deputy Speaker
Pablo Garcia appears to have deputized two members, the other being Rep. Antonino and
that the committee is currently seeking clarification from the Office of Deputy Speaker Pablo
Garcia. Later in the meeting, the Office of Deputy Speaker Pablo Garcia confirmed that its
deputized member is Rep. Antonino and that it had inadvertently issued a deputation to Rep.
tlagan.

Ill, APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS MEETING

On motion of Rep. Josefina Joson, there being no objection, the minutes of the meeting of
March 13, 2012 were approved by the Body.

IV. APPROVAL OF THE SUBSTITUTE BILL AND COMMITTEE REPORT ON THE BILLS
ON SIGN LANGUAGE INSETS AND CLOSED CAPTION: House Bill No. 4121 (Reps.
Casifio and Colmenares, House Bill No. 1055 (Reps. Rufus Rodriguez and Maximo
Rodriguez), House Bill No. 3838 (Rep. Palatino)

Rep. Rodriguez sought to delete the word “Filipino” from the phrase “Filipino sign language"
He reasoned that in Mindanao, English is better understood than Tagalog, which is what the
Filipino refers to, and using Tagalog discriminates against the inhabitants of Cebu and those
from Regions Vil to XVI. He further noted that Section 22 of the Magna Carta for Persons
With Disabilities (Republic Act No. 7277 as amended), which the bill proposes to amend,
does not contain the word “Filipino”.

2


Rep. Palatino, the chair of the Technical Working Group, explained that the word “Filipino”
refers to the sign language, and not the spoken and written languages of Filipino or English.
He added that the use of Filipino sign language was the proposal of the stakeholders from
the deaf community and the academe. Rep. Palatino further pointed out that there is
‘American sign language but not English sign language, and that the bill is for the benefit of
the deaf community and not the media

Rep. Casifio stressed that itis called Filipino not because it is Tagalog-based but because it
covers the anthropological devices, or cultural symbols and practices, of all Filipinos. To
illustrate, he pointed out that the sign for “dog” is the same for a deaf person using Filipino
sign language, whether that person is Tagalog- or Visayan-speaking. He assured the Body
that even the deaf population in non-Tagalog speaking regions agree on the use of Filipino
sign language, because they are more familiar with those signs compared to English or other
foreign symbols.

At this juncture, Rep. Magsaysay asked the authors for the specific provisions of the existing
law that are being amended. Rep. Casifio replied that in the existing law, the networks are
merely encouraged to put sign language insets, whereas in the bill, the networks are being
required to provide sign language insets in at least two news programs. The other
amendment specifies the use of Filipino sign language because this is what the deaf
community recommended, he added.

Rep. Antonino pointed out that major news outfits, such as The Filipino Channel and GMA
International are now broadcasting their news and public affairs programs internationally. If
these networks are required to use Filipino sign language insets, they might lose foreign
audiences that do not understand Filipino. He proposed to give the networks the discretion
to use the appropriate sign language in their news programs,

Reps. Joson, Marcoleta, Tugna, Herrera-Dy, and Tinio also propounded their views on the
matter of using Filipino sign language.

On the query of Rep. Magsaysay about the target beneficiary of the bill, Rep. Casifio
stressed that the bill is intended for Filipino deaf persons, not for American, Italian or French
deaf persons. Therefore, he added, Filipino sign language is appropriate to use.

Thereupon, Rep. Banal moved to divide the House. By a vote of 19-9, the Body decided in
favor of retaining the word “Filipino”

On motion of Deputy Speaker Tafiada, there being no objection, the Body approved the
Substitute Bill. The secretariat was thereafter directed to prepare the Committee Report

Rep. Sy-Alvarado proposed to include all members of the committee and House members
Present as co-authors of the bill. There being no objection, the motion was carried

V. INITIAL DELIBERATION ON HOUSE BILL NO. 3701 - An Act Declaring November

Twenty-Three of Every Year as “Philippine Press Freedom Day” (Reps. Co,
Batocabe and Garbin)

Rep. Batocabe adopted the explanatory note to House Bill No. 3701 as his sponsorship
speech. He added that November 23 should be remembered not only for the sacrifices of
journalists but also as a day to promote press freedom


‘On motion of Rep. Baguilat, there being no objection, the Body approved House Bill No.
3701. The secretariat was thereafter directed to prepare the Committee Report.

VI. DELIBERATION ON THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION (FOI) BILLS:
a. INITIAL DELIBERATION ON HOUSE BILL NO. 6555 (Rep. Ejercito)

Noting that the author was not present, Rep. Antonino moved to suspend consideration of
House Bill No. 6555. At this juncture, Deputy Speaker Tafiada observed that the bill is
almost the same as the consolidated version, prompting Rep. Antonino to offer to sponsor
the said bill so that it could be incorporated in the consolidated version of the 15 measures
previously filed. There being no objection, the Body authorized Rep. Antonino to sponsor
House Bill No. 6555, with its explanatory note adopted as the sponsorship speech.

b. CONTINUATION OF DELIBERATION ON THE REVISED PROPOSED
CONSOLIDATION OF THE FOLLOWING MEASURES:

House Bill No. 53 (Rep. Tafiada)
House Bill No.11 (Rep. Biazon)

House Bill No, 22 (Rep. Teodoro)

House Bill No. 59 (Rep. Nograles)

House Bill No. 86 (Rep. Angara)

House Bill No. 133 (Reps. Casifio & Colmenares)

House Bill No. 301 (Reps. Bello & Bag-ao)

House Bill No. 830 (Rep. Romualdo)

House Bill No. 1713 (Rep. Apostol)

10. House Bill No. 1968 (Rep. del Mar)

11. House Bill No. 2128 (Rep. Castelo)

12, House Bill No. 2969 (Rep. Escudero)

13, House Bill No, 4252 (Rep. Antonino)

14. House Bill No. 4851 (Rep. Tugna)

15. PETITION No. 0002 (Petition Through Indirect Initiative by the Ang
Kapatiran Party)

©@NOgaons

The Chair informed the Body that the parliamentary status of the consolidated measure is
that in the last hearing, there were clarificatory questions propounded by Rep. Casifio to
Undersecretary Manuel Quezon, and that he made a reservation to propound further
questions. However, Usec. Quezon was not present to answer the questions.

Rep. Casifio expressed his disappointment over the absence of the representatives from
Malacafiang. He manifested that he has several reservations on the exemptions proposed
by Malacafiang, specifically the provisions exempting information on the minutes of meetings
and opinions expressed during deliberations and policy formulation, as well as information
with respect to internal security operations, which would most likely include human rights.
However, he expressed willingness to propose amendments to these provisions on the floor,
Just to expedite the process in the committee level.

At this juncture, Rep. Antonino questioned the process by which the consolidated version
came about. He observed that his bill was referred to the Committee earlier than the version
drafted by Malacefiang. However, when the TWG came up with a second consolidated
version, it incorporated the Malacafiang inputs but did not consider his bil


The Chair interjected that in the last hearing, the Body was not able to resolve several
issues, such as the definition on the issue of exceptions from disclosure, and the aspect of
national security, and the deliberative process as raised by Rep. Casifio.

He added that the TWG was also unable to resolve the issues 2s contained in House Bill No.
830 by Rep. Romualdo, particularly the issue on how to classify information that is exempted
from disclosure, and the inclusion of private institutions in the coverage of the FOI. He
further noted that Rep. Mercado-Revilla also raised concems about safeguards against the
possible abuse or misuse of information obtained through the FOI. Lastly, the TWG was also
unable to resolve the question of including a right of reply provision in the bill.

Deputy Speaker Taftada explained that the bill of Rep. Antonino is practically the same as
that of the consolidated version, except for the section on the right to reply. Knowing that this.
provision was a contentious issue, the TWG decided to refer the matter to the mother
committee. He pointed out that after the TWG identified the contentious issues for the
mother committee to resolve, the latter should have either reconstituted the TWG to tackle
the said issues, or held mother committee hearings to address the same.

Rep. Magsaysay opined that the authors and members should have been asked during a
committee hearing about their stand on the incorporation of Malacafiang inputs in the
consolidated version.

In response, Deputy Speaker Tafiada cited page 6 of the minutes of the previous meeting,
Which stated that the Body, on motion of Rep. Romualdo duly seconded by Rep. Baguilat
and there being no objection, had agreed to use the revised proposed consolidation of the
FOL bills with inputs from Malacafiang as its working draft in the next hearing. Therefore,
uch question can no longer be entertained, he said.

On the matter of conducting committee hearings, the Chair explained that the committee
could not hold the same as it was still waiting for the comments of the other stakeholders on
some provisions. He emphasized that he did not want to ram the bill down the throats of the
members precisely because of its contentious nature.

He also read the letter of Rep. Romualdo asking the committee not to close the discussion of
the measure today to allow him to further participate in the deliberation. He mentioned that
Rep. Romualdo is currently at the Commission on Elections to file a disqualification case
against his opponent.

After a lengthy debate, Rep. Bello moved to approve the consolidated version of the FO! bill,
which Rep. Antonino manifested his objection thereto. Noting that the plenary session had
already started, Rep. Antonino moved to adjourn. Thereupon, the Chair adjourned the
meeting based on Rule 11, Section 70 of the House Rules.

Vil. ADJOURNMENT

There being no other matters to discuss, the meeting was adjourned at 4:34 p.m.


Thereby certify to the correctness of the foregoing minutes.

Cnasapyet—

CATHERINE N. MACAPAGAL
Committee Secretary

Approved by:

BEN. P, EVARDONE
Chairman