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Republic of the Philippines 
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 
Quezon City 
TWENTIETH CONGRESS 
First Regular Session 
House Bill No. ________ 
Introduced by REP. JAVIER MIGUEL L. BENITEZ 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Philippines’ capacity to govern effectively, secure critical infrastructure, and 
deliver public services now rests heavily on the expertise of Information and 
Communications Technology (“ICT”) professionals in government. These 
include ICT specialists, ICT engineers, ICT researchers, ICT technologists, ICT 
educators, and other ICT professionals, as classified in this measure, whose 
functions are vital to national security, digital transformation, and economic 
competitiveness. 
Despite their indispensable role, ICT professionals remain without a dedicated 
Magna Carta guaranteeing equitable compensation, comprehensive benefits, 
structured career progression, mandatory continuing professional development 
(“CPD”), and institutional support comparable to that enjoyed by other highly 
technical personnel in government. This absence weakens the State’s ability to 
retain top talent, address cyber threats, and respond to the accelerating pace of 
technological change. 
This bill establishes the Magna Carta for ICT Professionals in Government, a 
comprehensive framework that: 
(a) Institutionalizes Rights, Welfare, and Professional Growth – Setting
equitable minimum compensation standards, benefits, safe working conditions, 
access to mental health services, structured career progression, and robust CPD 
programs across critical and emerging ICT fields; 
(b) Strengthens the State’s Digital Governance Capacity – Creating
incentives for research, innovation, and exemplary service; ensuring the 
meaningful participation of accredited ICT professional organizations; and 
August 18, 2025
4:37 pm
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enabling scholarship, training, and secondment programs to secure and expand 
the government’s ICT talent base. 
By enacting these guarantees, the measure operationalizes the constitutional duty 
to “Give priority to education, science and technology, arts, culture, and sports to 
foster patriotism and nationalism, accelerate social progress, and promote total 
human liberation and development”1, the State policy to “Afford full protection 
to labor”2, and the mandate to “Promote the preferential use of Filipino labor, 
domestic materials and locally produced goods”3.  
Modeled in part after Republic Act No. 8439 (1997),4 this bill is tailored to the 
distinct competencies and challenges of the ICT sector, ensuring that the 
government can attract, retain, and empower the very professionals who secure 
our digital sovereignty and advance the public interest in the information age. 
In view of the foregoing, the passage of this bill is earnestly sought. 
JAVIER MIGUEL L. BENITEZ 
1 1987 Constitution, Article II, Section 17. 
2 1987 Constitution, Article XIII, Section 3. 
3 1987 Constitution, Article XII, Section 12. 
4 Republic Act No. 8439, “Magna Carta for Scientists, Engineers, Researchers and Other S&T 
Personnel in the Government”. 


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Republic of the Philippines 
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 
Quezon City 
TWENTIETH CONGRESS 
First Regular Session 
House Bill No. ________ 
Introduced by REP. JAVIER MIGUEL L. BENITEZ 
AN ACT PROVIDING FOR A MAGNA CARTA FOR INFORMATION AND 
COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY (ICT) PROFESSIONALS IN 
GOVERNMENT, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
CHAPTER I 
TITLE, DECLARATION OF PRINCIPLES, AND OTHER OBJECTIVES 
SECTION 1. Short Title. – This Act shall be known as the "Magna Carta for 
Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Professionals in Government." 
SEC. 2. Declaration of Policy. –  The foundational contribution of 
Information and Communications Technology (“ICT”) professionals is 
indispensable to national progress. To this end, the State aims to prioritize 
research, development, and Science and Technology education, promote Filipino 
labor and domestic industry competitiveness, and affirm the vital role of youth in 
nation-building. 
The State is committed to actively supporting ICT professionals' welfare 
and development and seeks to guarantee their rights, provide incentives to boost 
productivity and innovation, and foster an environment that attracts, retains, and 
empowers them.  
The State aims to enhance the Philippines' progress and competitiveness 
in the global digital arena, directly aligning with the constitutional principles of 
promoting national development and empowering its citizens. 
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SEC. 3. Definition of Terms. – For the purpose of this Act, the following 
terms shall be construed as: 
 
(a) Continuing Professional Development (“CPD”) – embodies the ongoing, 
lifelong process of actively maintaining and progressively enhancing the 
knowledge, technical skills, professional competencies, and ethical standards of 
ICT professionals. 
 
(b) Government ICT Professional – refers to an ICT professional employed by 
any branch, department, bureau, office, agency, or instrumentality of the national 
government, Government-Owned or -Controlled Corporations (“GOCCs”), State 
Universities and Colleges (“SUCs”), and Local Government Units (“LGUs”).  
 
(c) ICT Professional – refers to an individual who, through formal 
education, specialized training, relevant experience, or recognized professional 
certification, is engaged in activities intrinsically related to and in support of ICT. 
This includes, but is not limited to, roles in software development, network 
administration, cybersecurity, data science, artificial intelligence, systems 
analysis and design, IT project management, technical support, ICT education 
and training, and emerging ICT specializations. 
 
(d) ICT Professional Organization – signifies any association, society, or 
institute of ICT professionals duly recognized and accredited by the appropriate 
government agency. 
 
SEC. 4. Classification of ICT Professionals. – For the effective 
implementation of the benefits and incentives provided under this Act, ICT 
professionals shall be classified analogous to those defined in Republic Act No. 
8439, the "Magna Carta for Scientists, Engineers, Researchers and Other Science and 
Technology Personnel in Government,"  as follows:    
 
(a) ICT Specialists are individuals who possess a high degree of expertise 
and specialization in a specific field of ICT, demonstrated by advanced education, 
professional certifications, significant experience, and recognized contributions 
to their area of specialization. This may include, but not be limited to, 
cybersecurity experts, data scientists, AI/Machine Learning engineers, cloud 
architects, and senior software architects. 


 
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(b) ICT Engineers are individuals who apply engineering principles and 
methodologies to the design, development, implementation, and maintenance of 
ICT systems, infrastructure, and solutions. This may include, but not be limited 
to, network engineers, systems engineers, software engineers, and hardware 
engineers. 
 
(c) ICT Researchers are individuals who are primarily engaged in the 
conduct of research and development activities aimed at advancing knowledge 
and innovation in the field of ICT. This includes those involved in basic and 
applied research in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, emerging 
technologies, and software engineering. 
 
(d) ICT Technologists are individuals who possess the technical skills and 
knowledge to implement, operate, and maintain ICT systems and equipment. 
This may include, but not be limited to, network administrators, systems 
administrators, database administrators, and IT support specialists. 
 
(e) ICT Educators are individuals who are primarily engaged in the 
teaching and training of ICT-related subjects in academic institutions, technical-
vocational schools, and training centers. This includes professors, instructors, and 
trainers in various ICT fields. 
 
(f) Other ICT Professionals are individuals providing support services to the 
ICT Personnel enumerated in the preceding subsections as certified by the 
Secretary of the Department of Information and Communications Technology 
(“DICT”), and as may be further defined in the Implementing Rules and 
Regulations (“IRR”) of this Act. 
 
SEC. 5. Criteria for Classification. – The DICT, in consultation with the 
Civil Service Commission (“CSC”) and the Department of Budget and 
Management (“DBM”), shall establish specific criteria and guidelines for the 
classification of ICT professionals under the categories defined in the preceding 
section. These criteria shall take into account factors such as educational 
attainment, professional certifications, relevant experience, level of responsibility, 
and contributions to the ICT sector. The DICT shall publish a Competency 
Framework for ICT Roles and require a National Registry of Government ICT 


 
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Professionals aligned with ICT industry standards, local and international 
competency frameworks, and mutual recognition agreements. 
 
CHAPTER II 
EMPLOYMENT AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT 
 
 
SEC. 6. Fair Compensation, Comprehensive Benefits, and Incentives. – 
 
(a) Establishment of Minimum Compensation Standards.  
 
The DICT, in close coordination with the CSC and the DBM, shall establish 
and regularly review equitable minimum compensation standards for ICT 
professionals across various specializations and experience levels, taking into 
account the complexity of their responsibilities, the required specialized skills, the 
extent of their professional experience, and prevailing equitable industry rates. 
 
(b) Provision of Comprehensive Benefits and Incentives.  
 
Government agencies and institutions are strongly encouraged to provide 
a comprehensive package of additional benefits and meaningful incentives to 
their ICT professionals, including, but not limited to, performance-based bonuses, 
professional development allowances, comprehensive health insurance coverage, 
adequate retirement benefits, and facilitated opportunities for advanced 
education and specialized training. 
 
(c) Guarantee of Equal Pay for Work of Equal Value.  
 
ICT professionals performing work of demonstrably equal value shall 
receive equal remuneration and benefits, without any form of discrimination 
based on gender or other irrelevant personal circumstances. 
 
SEC. 
7. 
Structured 
Career 
Progression 
and 
Opportunities 
for 
Specialization. – Government agencies and institutions shall establish 
transparent and well-defined career progression pathways for ICT professionals, 
providing clear opportunities for professional advancement based on 
demonstrated performance, accumulated relevant experience, and commitment 
to continuous professional development. They shall also actively support 
specialization in emerging and critical ICT fields through the provision of 
relevant training programs, mentorship opportunities, and professional 
certification support. 
 


 
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SEC. 8. Mandatory and Accessible Continuing Professional Development 
(CPD). – 
 
(a) Establishment of a Mandatory CPD Program. – The DICT, in close 
collaboration with duly recognized relevant professional organizations, 
recognized locally or internationally, shall establish and implement a robust and 
mandatory CPD program for all ICT professionals to ensure the continuous 
updating and enhancement of their knowledge, technical skills, professional 
competencies, and ethical awareness. 
 
(b) CPD Credit Units and Recognition of Diverse Learning Activities. – ICT 
professionals shall be required to earn a specified number of CPD credit units 
within a defined period for the maintenance and renewal of their professional 
licenses or certifications, where such are applicable. The CPD program shall 
recognize a diverse range of learning activities, including formal training, 
seminars, workshops, online courses, research, publications, and professional 
practice, such as but not limited to the following: 
 
(i) CompTIA, Cisco, AWS, Google, ISC2, PMI certifications; and 
(ii) Participation in hackathons, innovation bootcamps, and coding 
academies. 
 
(c) Ensuring Accessible and Quality CPD Programs. – The government 
shall actively promote and provide substantial support for the development and 
widespread accessibility of affordable and high-quality CPD programs for ICT 
professionals throughout the nation, including the strategic utilization of online 
and blended learning methodologies to reach a wider audience. 
 
SEC. 9. Strategic Training and Scholarship Programs in ICT. – The 
government shall establish and substantially support comprehensive training 
and scholarship programs across diverse and specialized fields of ICT, with a 
particular focus on emerging technologies and critical skills identified as essential 
for national development and global competitiveness. These programs shall be 
made accessible to deserving individuals from all socioeconomic backgrounds, 
including those from marginalized communities, to ensure equitable access to 
opportunities in the ICT sector. 
 
CHAPTER III 
WORKING CONDITIONS, SOCIAL WELFARE AND BENEFITS 
 


 
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SEC. 10. Standard Working Hours and Fair Overtime Compensation. – 
The standard working hours for ICT professionals in government shall be 
governed by Executive Order 292, otherwise known as the Administrative Code 
of 1987, and by the CSC rules and regulations. Any work rendered beyond these 
standard hours shall be compensated fairly and promptly in accordance with 
applicable overtime pay regulations and industry standards. 
 
SEC. 11. Comprehensive Leave Benefits and Entitlements. – ICT 
professionals shall be entitled to a comprehensive range of leave benefits, 
including, but not limited to, ample sick leave, generous vacation leave, full 
maternity leave, supportive paternity leave, and other special leaves as mandated 
by existing labor laws and the specific policies of their respective employers. 
 
SEC. 12. Guarantee of a Safe and Healthy Working Environment. – 
Employers shall have a fundamental responsibility to ensure and maintain a safe, 
healthy, and ergonomically sound working environment for all ICT 
professionals. This includes the provision of necessary ergonomic equipment, 
adequate facilities, and comprehensive training on occupational safety and health 
protocols to mitigate workplace hazards. 
 
SEC. 13. Robust Social Security and Comprehensive Welfare Benefits. – 
ICT professionals shall be entitled to full coverage under the Government Service 
Insurance System (GSIS) for government employees, as well as all other relevant 
social welfare benefits as mandated and provided by existing laws, rules, and 
regulations. 
 
SEC. 14. Facilitation of Housing and Transportation Assistance. – The 
government agencies and institutions are strongly encouraged to facilitate access 
to affordable housing options and provide adequate transportation assistance to 
ICT professionals, particularly those working in geographically remote or 
economically disadvantaged areas, to enhance their quality of life and reduce 
commuting burdens. 
 
SEC. 15. Compensation and Benefits for ICT Professionals in Government. 
– To recognize the unique expertise and evolving demands of ICT professionals 
in government service, an alternative compensation framework shall be 
established, notwithstanding the provisions of Republic Act No. 6758. 
 
The CSC and the DBM shall jointly issue regulations governing the 
classification, compensation, and benefits of ICT professionals, ensuring 
competitiveness with private sector standards while maintaining fiscal 
responsibility. 


 
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ICT positions identified as critical to national security, digital 
infrastructure, and innovation shall be exempt from standard salary grades under 
R.A. 6758, subject to CSC and DBM approval. Such exemptions shall be based on 
industry benchmarks, specialized skill requirements, and market conditions. 
 
The CSC and DBM shall periodically review and adjust the compensation 
framework to reflect technological advancements and labor market trends, 
ensuring the retention and motivation of highly skilled ICT personnel in 
government service. 
 
SEC. 16. Access to Psychological Support Services. – Agencies shall ensure 
ICT Professionals in government access to the following: 
 
(a) On-site or partner mental health professionals for counseling and 
psychological first aid; 
 
(b) Tele-mental health services for remote or field-based personnel; and  
 
(c) Peer support programs and mental health champions within the 
workplace 
 
SEC. 17. Highest Basic Salary Upon Retirement. – Upon retirement, the 
ICT personnel concerned shall automatically be granted one (1) salary grade 
higher than his/her basic salary, and his/her retirement benefits shall be 
computed on the basis of his/her highest salary received.  
 
CHAPTER IV 
ROLE OF THE GOVERNMENT AND PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS 
 
SEC. 18. Enhanced Role and Responsibilities of the Department of 
Information and Communications Technology (DICT). – The DICT shall serve as 
the primary government agency vested with the comprehensive responsibility for 
the effective implementation and rigorous enforcement of this Act. Its mandated 
responsibilities shall include, but not be limited to: 
 
(a) Proactively formulating and strategically implementing policies and 
comprehensive programs designed to promote the overall welfare and 
continuous professional development of all ICT professionals in the Philippines. 
 


 
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(b) Establishing, regularly reviewing, and ensuring the enforcement of 
equitable minimum compensation standards and comprehensive guidelines for 
ICT professionals across all sectors, in close collaboration with the CSC, and duly 
recognized relevant professional organizations. 
 
(c) Developing, implementing, and continuously improving a robust and 
accessible national CPD program that caters to the diverse needs and 
specializations within the ICT profession. 
 
(d) Actively promoting and providing substantial support for the 
establishment and expansion of high-quality training and scholarship programs 
in critical and emerging fields of ICT. 
(e) Facilitating the meaningful and substantive participation of ICT 
professionals, through their accredited professional organizations, in the critical 
processes of policy formulation, legislative review, and strategic decision-making 
that directly impact the ICT sector. 
 
(f) Diligently monitoring and rigorously evaluating the effective 
implementation of this Act, identifying areas for improvement, and 
recommending necessary legislative or regulatory amendments to ensure its 
continued relevance and impact. 
 
(g) Establishing clear criteria and procedures for the formal accreditation 
of professional organizations of ICT professionals, ensuring their active and 
constructive engagement in the sector's development. 
 
SEC. 19. Vital Role of Accredited Professional Organizations. – Duly 
accredited professional organizations of ICT professionals shall play a vital and 
recognized role in: 
 
(a) Effectively representing the collective interests of their members and 
actively advocating for the comprehensive protection and advancement of their 
rights, welfare, and professional standing. 
 
(b) Collaborating closely and constructively with the DICT and other 
relevant government agencies in the strategic development, thorough review, 
and effective implementation of policies and programs that directly affect ICT 
professionals. 


 
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(c) Developing, actively promoting, and rigorously enforcing high ethical 
standards and comprehensive codes of professional conduct for their members, 
ensuring accountability and responsible practice. 
 
(d) Proactively developing and delivering relevant and high-quality CPD 
programs and diverse professional development opportunities that cater to the 
evolving needs of their membership. 
 
(e) Actively participating in the establishment and implementation of fair 
and transparent accreditation and certification processes for ICT professionals, 
where such mechanisms are deemed necessary and beneficial for the profession. 
 
CHAPTER V 
RECOGNITION AND INCENTIVES 
 
SEC. 20. Establishment of National ICT Awards. – The government shall 
establish a National ICT Awards program to recognize and honor outstanding 
ICT professionals, groundbreaking innovations, and significant contributions to 
the ICT sector and national development. These awards shall be conferred 
annually and shall carry appropriate prestige and incentives. 
 
SEC. 21. Incentives for Innovation, Research, and Development. – The 
government shall provide meaningful incentives and substantial support for ICT 
professionals actively engaged in research and development, fostering 
innovation, and creating valuable intellectual property within the field of ICT. 
These incentives may include, but are not limited to, research grants, tax 
exemptions or credits, access to specialized facilities, and assistance in the 
commercialization of their innovations. 
 
SEC. 22. Non-DICT ICT Professional. – ICT personnel not employed by 
the DICT, but is an employee of any executive, legislative, judicial and 
constitutional offices, including LGUs, SUCs, GOCCs and other instrumentalities, 
whether located in the Philippines or abroad may also avail benefits outlined in 
this bill, provided, that they are involved in ICT functions, provided in section. 4 
of this Act, and secured certification from the DICT. 
 
SEC. 23. Consultancy Services. – ICT personnel shall be allowed to render 
consultancy services to the private sector and shall be entitled to receive such 
honorarium that may be paid to them by the private entity concerned. Such 
payments shall be over and above their salary from the government during the 


 
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period of the consultancy and shall not be considered as double compensation: 
Provided, That the consultancy work will not compromise or adversely affect the 
operations or activities of his originating office: Provided; further, That the 
Secretary of the DICT approves such consultancy 
 
SEC. 24. Detail to the Private Sector. – ICT personnel who are employed 
on a regular basis in the government shall be allowed secondment to any private 
entity whenever such services are required: Provided, That the duration of such 
service with a private entity shall not exceed one (1) year: Provided, further, That 
the detail or secondment of said personnel will not hamper or adversely affect the 
operations or activities of his originating office: Provided, finally, That the head of 
the agency approves such detail or secondment. 
 
CHAPTER VI 
SCHOLARSHIPS AND GRANTS FOR ICT DEVELOPMENT 
 
SEC. 25. Establishment of ICT Scholarship and Grant Programs. – The 
government, through the DICT in collaboration with Department of Science and 
Technology (“DOST”), Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Technical 
Education And Skills Development Authority (“TESDA”), and other relevant 
government agencies, shall establish and administer comprehensive scholarship 
and grant programs to support the education, training, and professional 
development of ICT professionals and individuals aspiring to enter the ICT 
sector.    
 
SEC. 26. Coverage of Scholarships and Grants. – These programs shall 
cover various aspects of ICT education and training, including but not limited to: 
 
(a) Undergraduate and Graduate Degree Programs: Scholarships for deserving 
students pursuing bachelor's and postgraduate degrees in ICT-related fields in 
accredited higher education institutions, both local and international, where 
deemed strategic. 
 
(b) Technical and Vocational Training: Grants and financial assistance for 
individuals undertaking technical and vocational courses in ICT skills identified 
as critical for national development and industry needs, provided by TESDA-
accredited institutions. 
 
(c) Specialized Skills Development: Grants for ICT professionals seeking to 
acquire advanced or specialized skills in emerging technologies and strategic ICT 


 
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domains through certificate programs, short courses, and industry-recognized 
certifications. 
 
(d) Research and Development Grants: Grants to support ICT professionals 
and researchers engaged in innovative research and development projects that 
contribute to the advancement of the ICT sector in the Philippines. 
 
(e) Faculty Development Grants: Grants to support the professional 
development of ICT educators, including opportunities for further studies, 
research, and training in emerging ICT fields. 
 
SEC. 27. Funding and Administration. – The funds necessary for the 
implementation of these scholarship and grant programs shall be sourced from 
the national budget and may be augmented through partnerships with private 
sector entities, international organizations, and other funding sources. The DICT 
shall be responsible for the overall administration and monitoring of these 
programs, ensuring their effective and equitable distribution. 
 
CHAPTER VII 
MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS 
 
SEC. 28.  Exemption from the Attrition Law and Civil Service Rule on 
Nepotism. – Appointment of ICT personnel to positions of research assistant and 
upwards shall not be covered by the Attrition Law and CSC rule on nepotism in 
cognizance of the highly technical nature of their functions. 
 
SEC. 29. Provision Against Double Benefits. – ICT personnel receiving the 
same benefits under any other law shall not be allowed to avail of the benefits 
under this Act unless they submit in writing their intention to withdraw the 
benefits already being received and opt for those provided hereunder. 
 
SEC. 30. Magna Carta Monitoring and Evaluation Committee. – To ensure 
the effective implementation, continuous improvement, and accountability of this 
MC, a Magna Carta Monitoring and Evaluation Committee (“MCMEC”) shall be 
established. 
 
(a) Composition and Leadership. – The MCMEC shall be co-chaired by the 
DICT and the CSC, with members from: 
 
(i) DBM 
(ii) DOST 


 
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(iii) Commission on Audit (“COA”) 
(iv) Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) 
(v) Department of Health (DOH) (for physical and mental health well-
being) 
(vi) Career Executive Service Board (CESB) 
(vii) Representative from the CSC-accredited Employees’ Organization 
in the DICT 
(viii) Representative from ICT professional association 
 
(b) Mandate and Functions. – The Committee shall: 
 
(i) Monitor agency compliance with the provisions of this Magna Carta 
(ii) Evaluate the effectiveness of programs related to ICT workforce 
development, mental health, and professionalization 
(iii) Recommend policy enhancements and implementation strategies 
 
(c) Annual Reporting to Congress. – The MCMEC shall submit an Annual 
Implementation Report to Congress, which shall include: 
 
(i) Status of compliance by government agencies 
(ii) Participation rates in CPD programs 
(iii) Data on the mental health and well-being of the ICT workforce 
(iv) Recommendations for legislative or administrative action 
(v) Transparency and Public Access –The annual report shall be made 
publicly accessible through the DICT website and other appropriate platforms 
to promote transparency and stakeholder engagement 
 
SEC. 31. Administrative Penalties for Non-Compliance. – Government 
officials or personnel who willfully or negligently fail to implement or comply 
with the provisions of this Magna Carta shall be subject to appropriate 
administrative sanctions in accordance with existing Civil Service laws and 
regulations. These may include: 
 
(a) Written reprimand for minor infractions; 
 
(b) Suspension for repeated or moderate violations; and 
 
(c) Dismissal from service for grave or willful neglect of duty. 


 
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The CSC, in coordination with the DICT, shall issue the implementing 
rules to guide the investigation and imposition of penalties. Agencies found to be 
non-compliant may also be subject to audit observations and recommendations 
by the COA, including possible disallowance of funds related to unimplemented 
benefits or programs. 
 
SEC. 32. Appropriations. – The initial funding required for the effective 
implementation of this Act shall be charged against the current appropriations of 
the concerned government agencies. Thereafter, the necessary financial resources 
shall be included in the annual General Appropriations Act to ensure the 
sustained and effective implementation of its provisions. 
 
SEC. 33. Periodic Review. – To ensure the continued relevance and 
effectiveness of this Act in addressing the evolving needs and challenges of the 
ICT sector and its professionals, the DICT, the CSC, the DBM, where applicable, 
accredited professional organizations of ICT professionals, and other relevant 
stakeholders, shall conduct a comprehensive review of this Magna Carta at least 
once every five (5) years from the date of its effectivity. 
 
SEC. 34. Implementing Rules and Regulations. – The DICT, in close 
coordination with the CSC, DBM, and other relevant agencies, shall promulgate 
the comprehensive IRR for this Act within ninety (90) days from the date of its 
effectivity.  
 
SEC. 35. Separability Clause. -- If any provision of this Act or the 
application thereof to any person or circumstance is held invalid or 
unconstitutional, the remainder of this Act and the application of such provision 
to other persons or circumstances shall not be affected thereby. 
 
 
Approved,