bettergovph/raw-philippine-data huggingface dataset:
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
( i ll l f t  o (  fbr J '- n  I fi.1 t i;
■16 
.lUL 21 
P 2  '2\
S. No.
SENATE
807
K l -
Tn ':
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto
AN ACT
INCREASING 
TO 
THREE 
THOUSAND 
PESOS 
(P3,000) 
THE 
MONTHLY 
PERSONNEL 
ECONOMIC 
RELIEF 
ALLOWANCE 
(PERA) 
GRANTED 
TO 
GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES, APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR 
OTHER PURPOSES
Explanatory Note
Twenty five years ago, the Personnel Eeonomic Relief Allowance (PERA) was eonceived 
to shield the salaries of publie seetor employees from the ravages of inflation brought about by 
two debilitating oil priee hikes in the latter part of 1990 and to prepare them against the possible 
economie fallout from the Gulf War.
The PERA was intended to help the civil servants tide over increasing cost of living until 
the erisis had subsided. But the erisis never left; on the eontrary, it grew worse. Thus, in order to 
improve the purchasing power of the peso, whieh has been eroded through time. President Fidel 
Ramos signed Administrative Order No. 53 in 1993, implementing the grant of additional 
eompensation in the amount of Five Hundred Pesos (P500) per month to public school teachers, 
uniformed personnel of the Philippine National Police and the Armed Forees of the Philippines’ 
and extending the benefit to the rest of the personnel of the government.
On June 17, 2009, Joint Resolution Number 4 mandated that the Additional 
Compensation in the amount of One Thousand Five Hundred Pesos (PI,500) and the Five 
Hundred Pesos (P500) PERA, be eollectively referred to as PERA.
This bill seeks to increase the monthly PERA granted to publie seetor employees to 
P3,000 in order to supplement the publie employees’ salaries in the midst of rising cost of living.
The budgetary outlay for this proposal is admittedly substantial and would require 
additional funding sources. However, government’s fiseal position has remarkably improved as 
evideneed by our stronger macroeconomic fundamentals and positive eredit rating adjustments. 
Credit upgrades lessen the eost of government borrowings and frees up resources that can be 
tapped for other uses. This is not to mention the steady stream of revenues from administrative 
reforms and from measures rationalizing tax eolleetions such as the Sin Tax reform law.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
I g f f ir t of l b e , » m i - l . n  a
'16 JUL21 
P3:49
SENATE
s.No. 867
W M
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto
AN ACT
INSTITUTING ESTATE TAX REFORM, AMENDING FOR THIS PURPOSE 
SECTIONS 84, 86(A), 89, 90, AND 97 OF THE NATIONAL INTERNAL REVENUE 
CODE OF 1997, AS AMENDED, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
Explanatory Note
“In this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes. ” -  Benjamin 
Franklin
Death is a certain event. The rights to succession are transmitted at the moment of the 
death of the decedent. Therefore, upon death, the estate of the decedent shall accrue to the heirs. 
However, at this very moment the State has the power to interfere before such estate can be 
transferred to the heirs through estate taxation.
Estate tax is a tax on the right of deceased persons to transmit their estate to the lawful 
heirs and beneficiaries at the time of death and on certain transfers, which are made by law as 
equivalent to testamentary disposition. Jurisprudence is replete with cases stating that the heirs 
succeed immediately to all the property of the deceased ancestor the moment of death as 
completely as if the ancestor had executed and delivered to them a deed for the same before his 
death.
The estate of the decedent shall be the one liable for the payment of estate tax. However, 
in the payment of such tax the burden of complying with the requirements of the law rests 
ultimately on the heirs. The National Internal Revenue Code of 1997, as amended, requires the 
taxpayer to:
Secure TIN for the estate.
File notice of death within 2 months after the decedent’s death.
File estate tax return and pay the tax within 6 months from decedent’s death. 
Detennine the gross estate and allowable deductions and compute the estate tax 
which may require the services of a certified public accountant (CPA) depending 
on the value of the gross estate.
Secure tax clearance before the title to the properties can be transferred in the 
name of the heirs.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
The foregoing requirements are additional burden on the members of the family who are 
still grieving for the loss of their loved one.
With the passage of this bill, the actual funeral expenses, and medical expenses incurred 
within one year immediately preceding the death of the decedent, can now be claimed in full as 
deductions against the gross estate. It increases the value of the family home and the amount of 
standard deduction to be allowed as deductions against the gross estate and provides automatic 
indexation of the value or amount every six years. Also, it increases the threshold amounts and 
provides automatic indexation every six years for the requirement of filing an estate tax return 
and submission of a CPA certification. It will only require the filing of notice of death if the
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session
i'nah'
f thc^V
*16 JUL 26 A 9 :09
S E N A T E
s b : 
881
K
’W :
Introduced by Senator Poe
AN ACT
TO PROTECT THE INTERESTS AND WELFARE OF FILIPINO SEAMEN AND 
SEA-BASED MIGRANT WORKERS, ESTABLISHING FOR THE PURPOSE A 
NATIONAL SEAFARERS ADMINISTRATION, APPROPRIATING FUNDS AND 
FOR OTHER PURPOSES
Explanatory Note
This bill seeks to ereate the National Seafarers Administration to look into and protect 
the interests and welfare of Filipino seafarers.
A National Seamen Board was created in 1974 to develop and maintain a 
comprehensive program for Filipino Seafarers employed overseas. The Board, however, was 
abolished in 1982 with the creation of the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration 
(POEA) under Executive Order No. 797. POEA has been empowered to formulate and 
undertake a systematic program for promoting and monitoring the overseas employment of 
Filipino workers. The body is likewise mandated to protect the rights of migrant workers 
including seamen so that they ean enjoy fair and equitable employment praetiees. An 
Advisory Board for Seamen was also created whieh was eomposed of private seetor to advise 
the POEA on its overseas operations.
While many commend the performanee of POEA in proteeting the rights and 
promoting the welfare of Filipino overseas workers, the latter continually claim that they 
have been overlooked by the govenunent. The ageney eoncemed may not be aware but the 
seafarers feel that they are not fully protected and their claims not fully attended. The 
complex problem of these seafarers necessitates a government mechanism fully concentrating 
on their needs and concerns.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
)
( $ K if »  c f  I h f  
■•til u
•16 JUL 19 P 6 '22
SENATE 
S. No.
KI ■ ‘.
’ Y: 
^
Introduced by Sen. Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV-
AN ACT
REGULATING 
THE 
PRACTICE 
OF 
CHIROPRACTIC 
CARE 
IN 
THE 
PHILIPPINES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Chiropractic is a health care profession which focuses on the diagnosis, treatment and 
prevention of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system with special emphasis on 
the spine. It is hypothesized that the general health of an individual is affected by these 
disorders via the nervous system1. Chiropractors also known as chiropractic physicians are 
individuals who specialize in the treatment of patients with health problems that involve the 
muscoloskeletal system.
This method of health care is popular and well-established in USA, Canada and Australia. It 
is also present to a lesser extent in other countries, such as the Philippines. At present, there 
are individuals who are practicing chiropractics in the Philippines, however, we do not have 
any agency that regulates this practice.
This proposed measure aims to professionalize the chiropractic profession by creating a 
Chiropractic Board of Examiners which would regulate the chiropractic profession to ensure 
the excellent, competitive, and accountable practice of chiropractic. The proposed measure 
seeks to protect not only the clients of chiropractic physicians but also the practitioners as 
well as the credibility of their profession.
In view of the foregoing, immediate passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
ANTONiO ”SONnV’’ F. ^RILLANES IV
^ 
Senator
1 D a ta  re trie v e d  fr o m  N e ls o n  CF, L a w re n c e  DJ, T ria n o  JJ, B r o n fo r t G , P e rle  S M , M e tz  RD, H e g e ts c h w e ile r K, 
L a B ro t T  (2 0 0 5 ). " C h iro p ra c tic  as s p in e  c a re ; a m o d e l fo r  th e  p ro fe s s io n "
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
Senate Bill No. 1 2 1
BILLS & WDEX V
AN ACT
AMENDING SECTION 24(A)(2) OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8424, OTHERWISE KNOWN 
AS THE NATIONAL INTERNAL REVENUE CODE OF 1997, AS AMENDED, AND FOR
OTHER PURPOSES
■
Introduced by Senator Juan Miguel F. Zubiri
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Well settled is the rule that taxes is the lifeblood of the government, the main source 
of revenue. The primary purpose of taxation is to generate funds for the State to finance the 
needs of the citizenry and to advance the common wealth. Our government chiefly relies on 
taxation to obtain the means to carry on its operation. However, our Constitution mandates 
that taxation shall be uniform and equitable and that Congress shall evolve a progressive 
system of taxation, one that is proportionate in character and must take into consideration 
the taxpayer's ability to pay for it in line with social justice and equity. But the reality at 
present, our income tax structure has been characterized as unfair and unequal as the 
burden of taxation heavily lies to the middle class, being the main work force of the society 
which automatically their taxes are withheld.
The Philippines has not adjusted its personal income tax system since 1998 even 
when inflation has eroded the income tax brackets. Although salary adjustments have been 
made to keep up with inflation, workers especially those in the middle income group are 
pushed into higher tax rate brackets and made to pay higher taxes. That scenario negates 
the principle of equity and progressivity as mandated and guaranteed by the Constitution. 
The current 32 percent personal income tax rate is higher than all of the ASEAN member 
countries next to Thailand and Vietnam's 35 percent. A taxable income of more than 
P500,000 will be taxed at 32 percent in the Philippines as against 20 percent in Vietnam, 11 
percent in Malaysia and 10 percent in Thailand. It is imperative that we assess the current 
tax system on individuals to make them competitive and responsive and to prevent tax- 
induced labor migration in view of the ASEAN Economic Integration.
Thus, this bill proposes to amend Section 24 of the National Internal Revenue Code of 
1997, as amended, by adjusting the individual tax brackets to reflect the effect of inflation. 
The net taxable income levels and nominal tax rates shall likewise be automatically indexed 
to inflation every six (6) years.
1.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session
SENATE
62
S. No.
DATE;
(/) TIME:
BILLS & II
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto
AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR FULL IRRIGATION SERVICE SUBSIDY FOR QUALIFIED 
FARMERS AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS FOR THE CONTINUED OPERATIONS OF 
THE NATIONAL IRRIGATION ADMINISTRATION
Explanatory Note
The cost of food production is steadily increasing. The total cost of rice production per 
hectare increased by 16.13% from 2009 to 20121. Such increase in cost of agricultural inputs can 
further erode the financial standing of fanners, putting them in a weak position against natural 
hazards like typhoons, drouglits, and pestilence. On a national scale, such vulnerability in the 
agricultural sector could adversely affect food security in the country.
One way to mitigate the financial vulnerability of small fanners is to subsidize the imgation 
serviee fee (ISF) collected from them. By virtue of Republic Act No. 3601 and Presidential Decree 
No. 552, the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) is authorized to collect fees from users of the 
national iiTigation system for water delivery services. Such fees are imposed to cover the operation 
and management of irrigation facilities and to recover the monies invested therein by the 
government.
Annually, an average Filipino fanner has to pay about a thousand pesos for ISF for two 
planting seasons. ISF, however, can cost more depending on the existing system’s development 
scheme, planting season and type of crops planted2. In 2015, NIA collected about PI.67 billion in 
ISF net of losses from discounts and palay sale. This amount comprises 66.33% of the total 
operating income eollected by the ageney in 2015. Such amount, however, is miniscule eompared to 
the P28.75 billion budgetary support appropriated for the irrigation agency to augment the agency’s 
corporate income and to cover the cost of implementation of irrigation projects, among others.
This measure seeks to reduce the impact of increasing cost of agricultural inputs and to 
reduce the eash expenses of fanners with small landholdings by providing for full irrigation subsidy 
for qualified farmers. To ensure the continued operation of the NIA, the bill provides that funding 
requirement shall be sourced from any funds in the National Treasury not otherwise appropriated.
By subsidizing the cost of irrigation, small fanners and farm workers are afforded with 
resources for other agricultural inputs that can further increase their productivity. This bill seeks to 
assist fanners and fannworkers who suffer hunger in spite of the increasing demand for the 
commodity they produce. Such assistance is only fitting to those who toiled to bring food to our 
table.
In view of the foregoing, immediate passage of this bill is efirtiESjtly souglit.
/n u h ’:
1 Philippine Statistical Authority. (2012). Palay: Updated Average Production Costs and I^ums.yOktezon City: Philippine Statistical 
Authority. 
/ /  
/ /
ISF rates for Bonga Pump Irrigation System, for example, can cost as much as 12 cavans per hectare during dry season.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
^
 ( C flir r  n '  t lji ' L - r r r i'Ijr y
•16 
JUL18 P6 20
S E N A T E
S.B. NO. 
401
• ; r ' 1- . ' >  
i ' Y
In tro d u ced  by SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA
AN ACT TO REQUIRE EMPLOYERS TO PROVIDE DAYCARE FACILITIES 
FOR THEIR EMPLOYEES* CHILDREN AGED FIVE (5) YEARS OLD AND 
BELOW, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE ARTICLE 157 OF THE LABOR 
CODE
Explanatory Note
Section 1, Article XV of the 1987 Constitution provides th at the State 
recognizes the Filipino family as the foundation of the nation. Accordingly, it 
shall strengthen its solidarity and actively prom ote its total development. 
In 
addition, Section 12 of Article II of the C onstitution declares th at the natural 
and prim ary right and duty of parents in the rearing of the youth for civic 
efficiency and the development of m oral character shall receive the support of 
the Government. In effect, it is the S tate’s responsibility to enable parents to 
provide for their family while at the sam e time ensuring th at parents will be 
able to ensure the welfare and safety of their small children.
This bill renders it com pulsory for all employers in the country, including the 
government, to establish day care facilities for com panies and establishm ents 
th at have at least 150 employees. 
This way, parents will be able to pursue 
their careers th at redound to the benefit of the family while at the sam e time, 
care for their small children.
In view of the foregoing, im m ediate passage of this bill is earnestly requested.
LOREN LEGARDA
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES ) 
First Regular Session 
)
; ;  
. r . . :
" M
m
 cit 
s .  
.
'<'■) 
.:ml I'M 
;q(;
SENATE 
s.No. 
5 4 9
HJ-K'/'r 
'•
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” Trillanes IV
AN ACT
AMENDING SECTION 2 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 1827 SO AS TO IMPOSE 
HIGHER PENALTIES FOR THOSE ENGAGED IN UNFAIR AND UNETHICAL 
LOBBYING PRACTICES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
There have been reports of unethieal lobbying practices in Congress and unlawful 
consideration allegedly being offered to lawmakers for either the passage or defeat of 
legislative measures in both Houses and their Committees. For that reason, addressing this 
issue and the negative image it imparts to the public is seriously needed. Such reports, 
whether with or without basis, creates the impression that our country's lawmakers are "for 
sale" and that the legislative measures being advanced or deterred in Congress are mostly 
coming at certain prices.
Republic Act No. 1827 otherwise known as "An Act to Regulate Lobbying in the Congress of 
the Philippines and in the Commission on Appointments" was enacted on June 22, 1957 and 
sought to prohibit corrupt or undesirable methods of lobbying, to promote a high standard of 
ethics in the practice of lobbying, to prevent harassing unfair and unethical lobbying 
practices, and to provide for the licensing of lobbyists and the suspension or revocation of 
such licenses.
This bill, which seeks to amend R.A. No. 1827, essentially proposes to increase the penalties 
for those persons who practice unethical lobbying and use eorrupt means to influence 
legislation and confirmation of appointment. It is envisioned that such measure shall curb 
corruption and undue influence in the passage and/or defeat of legislation, and also to deter 
unethical lobbying in the confirmation of appointments.
Hence, approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
ANTO
RILLANES IV
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session
'16 
AUG-1 
P r - 4 0
SENATE
S.B. No. 942
It l'!* «•
Introduced by Senator SONNY ANGARA
AN ACT
ENHANCING REVENUE ADMINISTRATION AND COLLECTION BY GRANTING AN 
AMNESTY ON ALL UNPAID INTERNAL REVENUE TAXES IMPOSED BY THE NATIONAL 
GOVERNMENT FOR TAXABALE YEAR 2015 AND PRIOR YEARS
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Since 2010, a total of 492 tax evasion cases were filed under the Run After Tax Evaders 
(RATE) program of the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR). Unfortunately, most of these cases 
are still languishing in various stages of the legal process, and to this day, not a single tax 
evader has been put behind bars. In 2009, the Supreme Court affirmed the Court of Tax 
Appeals’ decision and ordered the arrest of Gloria Kintanar, a distributor of Forever Living 
Products, for tax evasion due to non-filing and payment of income tax. Kintanar, however, has 
evaded arrest up to now and no taxes, fees or charges were ever collected from her.
The newly installed Finance Department has made it clear early on that it is committed 
to improve enforcement. One effective way of broadening the tax base is by offering tax 
amnesty for unpaid internal revenue taxes. The grant of tax amnesty would help cleanse, 
organize and improve BIR’s database of erring taxpayers, and would foster the idea that the BIR 
does not use its taxing and auditing powers to extort or harass taxpayers. It would likewise 
provide timely respite to Filipino taxpayers, collect tax revenues instantly by offering lower rates 
to those who will come forward to declare untaxed wealth, and allow the tax administration to 
economize on the cost of prosecuting tax evasion cases. We aspire that the grant of tax 
amnesty will lead to broader tax base and higher collection of tax revenues.
The provision for immunity from civil, criminal or administrative penalties arising from 
previous non-payment of correct taxes will encourage those in the informal economy to surface. 
By helping legitimize these underground businesses, the government can collect more income 
and other forms of taxes. Moreover, the tax amnesty will encourage businesses to pour in more 
investments in the country, and attract overseas capital to enter the domestic economy to 
further boost Philippine economic growth.
In view of the foregoing, the immediate passage of this bill is earnestly sought
INY ANGARA
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES )
First Regular Session 
)
S r u a l r
16 JUL19 A1012
SENATE
S.B. No. 4lf5
Ur, ia v i;i»  liY:
Introduced by SENATOR LOREN LEGAROA
AN ACT PROVIDING FOR A MANDATORY NATIONWIDE CHILD NUTRITION 
PROGRAM IN ALL PUBLIC ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS AND BARANGAY DAY 
CARE 
CENTERS, 
PROVIDING 
FUNDS 
THEREFOR 
AND 
FOR 
OTHER 
PURPOSES
Explanatory Note
Under the C onstitution, it is the State policy to protect and promote the right to 
health and instill health consciousness among the people.
This bill proposes a system-wide plan to im plem ent a nutrition and health 
program  for children in the schools and barangay day care centers, consisting of a 
com plem entary feeding program. This intervention is urgent, as undernutrition is 
largely preventable and the World Bank has reported of exceptionally high 
development returns to a num ber of direct nutrition interventions.
This legislative m easure also seeks to improve child attendance and survival rates 
in day care centers and schools by ensuring th at adequate health and nutrition 
program s are accessible to young children.
In view of the following, imm ediate passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
lo^^nlegarda
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
bV 1HE
RECEIVED"^
41L-Luaj£^i
DATE:.
TIME:
S. No.
SENATE
285
BY:
BILLS
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
GRANTING 
EDUCATIONAL 
ASSISTANCE 
AND 
BENEFITS 
TO 
THE 
DEPENDENTS OF ALL MEMBERS OF THE ARMED FORCES OF THE 
PHILIPPINES (AFP), PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE (PNP), BUREAU OF FIRE 
PROTECTION (BFP), BUREAU OF JAIL MANAGEMENT AND PENOLOGY 
(BJMP), NATIONAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION (NBI), PHILIPPINE DRUG 
ENFORCEMENT AGENCY (PDEA), PHILIPPINE COAST GUARD (PCG) AND 
BUREAU OF CORRECTIONS (BUCOR) WHO ARE KILLED OR PERMANENTLY 
INCAPACITATED WHILE IN THE PERFORMANCE OF THEIR DUTY OR BY 
REASON OF THEIR OFFICE OR POSITION
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Unifomied personnel from the AFP, PNP, BFP, BJMP, NBI, PDEA, PCG, and BuCor go 
through life-threatening tasks -  they are consistently at risk of getting killed or injured. Thus, 
the government should give them extra incentives for their exceptional dedication by 
extending help to the needs of the family members of those who are killed or permanently 
incapacitated in line of duty. The least that the government can provide for their families is to 
give them help in terms of educational assistance and benefits.
Hence, this bill seeks to give educational assistance and benefits to the dependents or 
surviving children of those deceased or pemianently incapacitated members of the above 
mentioned uniformed personnel. Dependents are automatically and without qualification be 
granted full scholarship from elementary to tertiary level in a non-exclusive institution. Said 
scholarship shall include payment of tuition and miscellaneous fees, allowance for books and 
school supplies, and allowance for food and transportation.
In view of the foregoing, the immediate passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
ANTO
©'“SONNY” F. TRILLANES IV
S e n a to r
J r
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s. No. 
486
(rlffiteof tljv ^ rr rrlsry
"6 
JUL 19 
:«1 38
j; y .
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
AMENDING REPUBLIC ACT NO. 53, AS AMENDED, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS 
"AN ACT TO EXEMPT THE PUBLISHER, EDITOR OR REPORTER OF ANY 
PUBLICATION FROM REVEALING THE SOURCE OF PUBLISHED NEWS OR 
INFORMATION OBTAINED IN CONFIDENCE BY INCLUDING WITHIN ITS 
COVERAGE JOURNALISTS FROM BROADCAST, NEWS AGENCIES AND 
INTERNET PUBLICATIONS"
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Under Republic Act No. 53, members of the press (i.e., print media) enjoy protection from 
being compelled to reveal their sources except in cases involving national security, as 
detennined by the courts or any Committee of the Senate or the House of Representatives.
Because of advances in broadcast and communications technology, there is no doubt that 
members of the broadcast media (i.e., radio and television reporters, commentators, talk show 
hosts, internet reporters, bloggers, etc.), now play an equally important role in the 
dissemination of news and as well as in shaping public opinion and public policy, not to 
mention in exposing corruption and anomalies in government.
Hence, it is imperative that the protection enjoyed by members of the print media be extended 
also to broadcast media practitioners.
In view of the foregoing, approval of this measure is earnestly sought.
ANTONIOl/SONNYi F. TRnLLANES IV
'  
Semitor
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
r y '  (gilKt (it tl.-’.i' "' i ' " ’ ^
•16 ^116 -1 
Pl-46
SENATE
S.B. No. 
9 4 9
n ’;
Introduced by Senator SONNY ANGARA
AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR THE PROTECTION, SECURITY AND BENEFITS OF WHISTLEBLOWERS, 
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Since 2010, much has been achieved in the drive against corruption in the public 
service. Government is slowly regaining the trust and confidence of the citizenry, after years of 
being cast under a iong shadow of doubt. 
In fact, the Philippines ranked 95th out of 186 
countries in the Corruption Perceptions Index of the Transparency International report for 2015, 
10 notches lower than its rank in the previous year.
The latest Global Corruption Barometer of Transparency International also affirms this, 
showing that the Philippines was among a handful of countries where comparatively more 
people reported that they believe corruption in their society has decreased—some 37 percent of 
Filipino respondents.
However, the same survey reveals that a little more than 6 out of 10 Filipinos believe 
that the level of corruption has either stayed the same or actually increased. While current anti­
corruption initiatives have already made headway, much more remains to be done.
But hope resides in everyday citizens. The survey also pinpoints that 3 out of 4 Filipino 
respondents believed that ordinary people could make a difference in the fight against 
corruption, with 84 percent expressing their willingness to engage in any anti-corruption activity.
Government must leverage this civic spirit, especialiy toward realizing Section 11, Article 
1 of the Philippine Constitution, stating that public office is a public trust. It carries the obligation 
to craft and implement a framework that enables, even incentivizes, citizens to contribute in 
exposing any government misconduct.
The proposed measure institutionalizes such a framework by defining the security, 
protection and benefits afforded to whistleblowers.
By enabling citizens to speak up about any wrongdoing in the government, this measure 
adds to other mechanisms already in place that help restore credibility, integrity and 
accountability in public service.
SONNY ANGARA
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E
S. B. No. 
281
D A T E :
B U L L S  4
 I N D E X
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT
RECOGNIZING AND STRENGTHENING ALTERNATIVE CARE OF CHILDREN, 
PROVIDING INCENTIVES TO AGENCIES PROVIDING THE SAME
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The C onstitution explicitly provides that the State shall defend, am ong others:
"The right of children to assistance, including proper care and nutrition, and special 
protection from all forms of neglect, abuse, cruelty, exploitation and other conditions prejudicial 
to their develop men tj1"
In 
consonance 
w ith 
this 
constitutional 
m andate, 
this 
bill 
intends 
to 
institutionalize alternative family care for children as an option other than adoption and 
foster family care.
Bearing in m ind the subsisting gap, it is subm itted that alternative family care for 
children can address the issues confronting adoption and foster care by creating foster 
hom es of a new  kind, w hich can be m ade to adapt depending on every child's needs. 
M oreover, the creation of such hom e w here a caring family thrives, children will be able 
to feel an actual sense of security and belonging.
W ith the creation of an institution to be nam ed as Alternative Care Agency, 
together w ith the D epartm ent of Social W elfare and Development, the plight of 
neglected and abandoned children will be likewise significantly addressed.
Respectfully subm itted.
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
1 Section 3, paragraph 2, Article XV.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
SENATE 
S. B. No. 
1 7
iUJ 
D A T E
b y : ------ -
v  BILLS ^
Introduced by SENATOR FRANKLIN M. DRILON
IMMIGRATION ACT OF THE PH ILIPPIN ES 
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The principal law governing our country’s immigration system is the 
antiquated Philippine Immigration Act of 1940, enacted seventy years ago under the 
American regime. The world has since witnessed immense changes in the dynamics 
governing movement of people across state borders.
Thus, our Bureau of Immigration needs to be revamped to be an effective 
enforcer of our immigration policies. This proposed measure seeks to reorganize the 
Bureau, redefine the functions of the institution, and introduce changes to the now 
obsolete systems and procedures under the present law. Through these amendments, 
a more responsive immigration law augurs well for the protection of the security, 
safety and well-being of our people.
In view of the foregoing, the immediate approval of the bill is earnestly sought.
K LIN M . DRILON
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
‘16 JUL19 P5t21
HKf'KIV.
SENATE 
S. No. 
5 9 4
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” Trillanes IV
AN ACT
ESTABLISHING THE ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE FOUNDATION TO PROMOTE 
ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE IN PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SCHOOLS AND FOR 
OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Article XIV, Section 1 of the 1987 Constitution provides that the State shall protect and 
promote the right of all the citizens of our country to quality education at all levels. However, 
despite this provision and numerous other laws that seek to promote good quality education, 
our country still lags behind our neighbors in Asia when it comes to providing good quality 
education.
Recent surveys indicate that there has been a decline in the academic performance of Filipino 
school children particularly in the field of science and mathematics. This decline may be due 
to the high teacher-student ratio, poor facilities, lack of textbooks, or lack of expertise or 
knowledge of teachers with the subjects they are teaching.
In line with our Constitutional provision on good quality education, this bill seeks to create an 
Academic Excellence Foundation which shall promote academic excellence in public and 
private schools all over the countiy through public-private entity partnerships. The 
Foundation shall develop programs that shall push for the advancement of the concept of 
academic excellence.
In view of the foregoing, immediate approval of this measure is earnestly sought.
ANTONIO/SONNY” V. T R I^A N E S IV
/  
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
SENATE
Senate Bill No. 
320
XP TIME:
BILLS 
DEX
Introduced by Senator Cynthia A. Villar
AN ACT ESTABLISHING A NATIONAL PROGRAM FOR THE CACAO INDUSTRY 
PROVIDING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This bill seeks to revive the dwindling cacao industry of the country and participate in the 
international markets for added income to our farmers.
Cacao is a small evergreen plant introduced by the Spaniards to the Philippines in 1674 to 
1680. Its seeds or beans are used to make cocoa and chocolate, which has medicinal uses 
as well as culinary purposes. The Philippines in general is a good place to grow cacao 
because it is on the Equator, the only part of the world where cacao can grow.
Worldwide consumption of chocolate has been gradually increasing by 3% annually with new 
market demand growing steadily in regions like Central Asia and Eastern Europe. Particular 
increases in demand have been observed in mainland China, India, and various states of the 
Russian Federation. Major cocoa bean processors include Hershey's, Nestle, and Mars, all of 
which purchase cocoa beans via various sources.
The Department of Agriculture said that the increasing global cacao demand is due to: the 
rising public awareness on its health benefits as well as preference for chocolate; expanding 
range of applications in food, beverage, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals: and increasing 
disposable income of middle class. The very rich and fertile Philippine soil is well suited for 
the production of cacao yet the country has been observed to import large amounts annually. 
We ranked 18th world-wide amongst cacao-producing nations. The country is currently 
producing from 10,000 to 12,000 MT of dried cacao beans - not
SEV EN TEEN TH  CO N G RESS 
)
REPU BLIC O F T H E  PH IL IPPIN ES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
I
;s>i'n:ar
i ' f  t t j f  > r r r r t . i r y
'16 JUL 18 P6 22
S E N A T E
S.B . N o. 404
K i , 
KlVi; ij BY;
In tr o d u c e d  b y  SEN A TO R LO REN  LEGARDA
AN A CT DECLARING JU L Y  2 7  O F EV ERY  YEAR A  SPEC IA L NON-W ORKING 
HOLIDAY IN OBSERVANCE O F  T H E  FOUNDING ANNIVERSARY O F IG L ESIA  
N IC R IS T O  
C
Explanatory Note
Section 5, Article 3 of the 1987 Constitution, also known as the Bill of Rights, 
recognizes the “free exercise and enjoym ent of religious profession and w orship.”
The Iglesia nl Cristo w as founded in the Philippines by Felix Ysagun Manalo and 
was registered by the Philippine Government on July 27, 1914. From its first 
local congregation in Punta, S anta Ana, the C hurch h as expanded to more than 
5000 congregations in 100 countries and territories.
This bill seeks to recognize the im m easurable contribution of the Iglesia ni Cristo 
to the Philippine society by declaring July 27 of every year as a special non­
working holiday throughout the Philippines.
In view of the foregoing considerations, the passage of this bill is earnestly 
sought.
i^GARDA
Senator
>rnai»’
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES ) 
First Regular Session 
)
“  ''1 I f ' . U l
'16 
,JIJL 19 
P 2 :0 2
SENATE
s.No. 503
K !■'; ■ 
i. \ 1 
••V
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
GRANTING HAZARD PAY TO COVERED EMPLOYEES OF THE GOVERNMENT 
AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR
EXPLANATORY NOTE
In the past, a number of government employees have been banned, and worse, killed in 
pursuance of their duties. More often than not, the families of the deceased have been unable 
to afford their departed relatives a decent burial, to say the least. Thus, it is only fitting that 
they be provided compensation for the risks connected with their duties.
This bill is being proposed in order to provide all officials and employees of the government 
a hazard pay especially in cases where they are assigned to hazardous, isolated and 
inaccessible areas, x-ray units, institutions that care for the mentally deranged, places that are 
subject to depredation by criminal elements, plants and installations of the arsenal, aboard 
aircrafts and watercrafts in crossing bodies of water and other similar situations.
In view of the foregoing, the immediate passage of this measure is earnestly requested.
ANTO.
“SONNY”
S e n a to r
F. TRIL
RILLANES IV
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E  
S. B. No. 
3 6
UJ 
DATE
tim e:
b y ; ____
V bills
In tro d u ced  by SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA
AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR SECURITY OF TENURE AND ADDITIONAL BENEFITS 
TO TEACHERS, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 
46 7 0 , OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE MAGNA CARTA FOR PUBLIC 
SCHOOL TEACHERS, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
Explanatory Note
This bill seeks to provide more benefits and greater protection to teachers 
and non-teaching personnel all over the country by strengthening and 
amending certain provisions of Republic Act No. 4670 or the Magna Carta 
for Public School Teachers.
Teachers are indeed Invaluable to our society. Their responsibility in 
molding the values and character of the young generation of the country 
cannot be overestimated. Aside from educating our children, teachers are 
likewise the most reliable and dedicated public servants. They are being 
constantly called upon by officials of the local and national governments to 
assist in various extra-curricular and civic activities which contribute to the 
welfare of the community and the country, most notable of which is when 
they perform their functions as members of the Board of Election Inspectors 
during election period, and recently, when they were called upon to assist 
the National Statistics Office in gathering data from households in all pEuts 
of the country, even those situated in remote areas.
To stress their importance to society, teachers are given substitute emd 
special parental authority under our laws. Article 218 of the Family Code 
states that the school, its administrators and teachers shall have special 
parental authority and responsibility over the minor child while under their 
supervision, instruction or custody.
It is imperative therefore that to attract the most competent and efficient to 
the teaching profession, government must provide compensation and 
benefits commensurate to the work they perform and the contribution they 
make to the society.
This bill addresses that need by providing for security of tenure to teachers, 
payment of their salaries as well as those of non-teaching personnel on a 
monthly basis regardless of semestral or summer vacations, annual salary 
increase or adjustment to mitigate the effects of Inflation, and other 
measures that will protect the rights and promote the welfare of our public
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session
SEN
S.B.
DATE J UN 
TIME:
2015
BILLS
Introduced by Senator Poe
AN ACT
TO IMPROVE AND TO PROMOTE QUALITY DELIVERY OF HEALTH SERVICES
IN BARANGAYS, ENACTING THE
“BARANGAY HEALTH WORKERS AND SERVICES REFORM ACT OF 2016”
Explanatory Note
In the present government set-up, the Barangay Health Volunteer, also known as Barangay 
Health Worker, is a category of health care providers in the Philippines, They undergo a basic 
training program under an accredited government or non-government organization, and 
render primary 
care services 
in 
the 
community. 
They 
provide 
services 
for barangays (neighbourhoods) in areas such as maternal, new-born and child health. Barangay 
Health Workers are accredited to function as such by the local health board in accordance with the 
guidelines promulgated by the Department of Health, as defined in Section 3 of Republic Act No. 
7883. Each volunteer receives about five weeks of training. Barangay Health Workers live in the 
commumties they serve, and act as change agents in their communities. They provide information, 
education and motivation services for primary health care, maternal and child health, child 
rights, family planmng and nutrition. They may administer immunizations and regular weighing 
of children. 
They often assist midwives in providing birthing services. On average, each 
Volunteer is expected to work with around 20 families in their community. However the scarcity 
of trained individuals has narrowed down the number of volunteers, especially in some remote 
areas, where now one or two volunteers service an entire barangay.1
As of the 2011, the Bureau of Local Health Development of the Department of Health 
estimated that there are 219,433 active Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) in the country. It is an 
indication that BHWs are indispensable in the delivery and promotion of primary health care 
programs of our govermnent. Ditto, the BHWs are the ones directly working on the grassroots 
level for community profiling; thus, dealing with the smallest unit of our society which is the 
family.
But the present policy considers and treats BHWs as mere volunteers under Republic Act 
(RA) 7883 entitled, “The Barangay Health Workers’ Benefits and Incentives Act of 1995”. 
Although RA 7883 provides for an opportunity for BHWs to obtain second grade eligibility; the 
process of arriving thereat seems unattainable, if not impossible. Consequently, numerous factors 
placed BHWs to economic oppression and human exploration.
1 W ikipedia, w w w .w ikipe dia .co m , citing  th e  fo iio w in g  studies o f th e  Red Cross Phiiippines, 8 N ovem ber 2011; 
D epartm ent o f H eaith: Basic S upport fo r In stitu tion alizin g  Chiid Survival Project N ew born H ealth in Philionines 
2011 
'
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
SENATE
S.B. No. 710
Seviatp
•16 112° P4'47
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam " A. Aquino IV
AN ACT PROVIDING FOR A M IN IM U M  MONTHLY NET TAKE-HOME PAY FOR ALL 
GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES AFTER AUTHORIZED DEDUCTIONS
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Government employees and teachers have taken on the challenge of serving the 
country and being an active part in the tedious process of improving our beloved nation.
But with the increasing cost of living, many of these employees tighten their belts to 
get by on modest salaries. They turn to loan agents, government and private, to make ends 
meet. They go into debt in order to provide for their families' needs, even to the extent that 
the entirety of their salary end up going to loan payments.
How can these critical players in nation building put their full effort into their public 
service if they are bombarded with financial woes? It is thus imminent that the State curb 
unhealthy practices and provide clear policies in support of its government servant-leaders.
By setting a minimum net take-home pay for government employees, this bill seeks 
to ensure that public servants are able to meet their families' basic needs and reduce their 
need to take on debts. Setting a minimum take-home amount allows an appropriate control 
for government employees to be able to properly budget for their households' expenses.
Such measure contributes in the efforts to ensure that no one gets left behind, 
especially among our country's public servants, in the progress and development of the 
country.
In view of the foregoing, the approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
6vwv
Senator ?aolo Benigno "ftiam" A. Aquino IV
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
SENATE
^ ;N o. 9G
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
INSTITUTIONALIZING 
AND 
FURTHER 
DEVELOPING 
"117" 
AS 
THE 
NATIONWIDE 
EMERGENCY 
ASSISTANCE 
TELEPHONE 
NUMBER 
FOR 
PUBLIC SAFETY AND SECURITY AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
It is a fact that criminality and other public disturbance pose grave threat to peace and order 
that is why dedicated efforts both from government and private sectors are needed at all 
times. Base from the data for the Philippine National Police (PNP), the number of reported 
crimes has been rising while the ability of the police to solve crimes has decreased. Though 
this may be due to the underreporting by local police units in the previous years, the spike in 
statistics is still alarming. In 2015, the number of reported crimes soared by 46% in the first 
five (5) months compared to the same period the previous year. The same trend was observed 
in 2014. By the end of the first five (5) months of that year, crime incidents rose by 18% 
compared to 2013 numbers.1
Hence, it is still imperative not only upon the government but also upon the private sector to 
employ and make use of all available mechanisms to help curb criminality.
Originally launched a decade ago. Patrol 117 seeks to connect concerned government 
agencies for immediate response in emergency situations. Despite the numerous issuances of 
the government aiming the same end. Patrol 117 can be further improved and developed to 
contribute effectively in promoting crime prevention and community safety.
This bill aims to strengthen and reinforce Patrol 117 as an institution. It specifically seeks to 
address the problem posed by illegitimate or prank calls. Stiffer penalties in the form of a fine 
and or imprisonment shall be put in place under this bill in order to curb the rising number of 
illegitimate or prank calls.
In view of the foregoing, immediate approval of this bill is earnestly sought>4L
ANTONIO “SONNY” F. TRILLANES IV
' 
Senator
1 Ranada, P., A look at the State of Crime, Drugs in the Philippines. January 5, 2016. Rappler News. Retrieved 
from http://www.rappler.com/nationyi 18004-crime-drugs-philippines
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E
S. B. No. 275
N DEX
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR A MORE RESPONSIVE 
CIVIL REGISTRATION SYSTEM
EXPLANATORY NOTE
It is undeniably a State policy to promote and maintain a responsive civil 
registration system equipped with efficient and simple sets of procedure for the listing 
of vital occurrences and characteristics of a person such as birth, marriage, death and 
judicial and administrative orders.
This bill is but in accord with the above State policy. It provides for a 
comprehensive 
registration 
system 
of 
an 
individual's 
civil 
status. 
Such 
comprehensiveness involves a detailed enumeration of the powers and functions of 
Civil Registrars as well as the procedures involved in registration.
In view of the foregoing, the undersigned earnestly seeks the immediate passage 
of this bill.
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E  
S.B .N o. 
1 8
BILLS
Introduced by SENATOR FRANKLIN M. DRILON
AN ACT TO STRENGTHEN THE OFFICE OF THE GOVERNMENT 
CORPORATE 
COUNSEL 
BY 
REDEFINING, 
EXPANDING, 
STRENGTHENING, 
RATIONALIZING 
AND 
FURTHER 
PROFESSIONALIZING 
ITS 
ORGANIZATION, 
UPGRADING 
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Office of the Government Corporate Counsel (OGCC) serves as the law 
office of government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs), their 
subsidiaries, 
other 
affiliated 
entities 
and 
government-acquired 
asset 
corporations. As such, the OGCC must protect the legal interests of these entities 
with utmost competence and efficiency at all times.
Considering the expanding legal requirements of the GOCCs, this 
proposed measure seeks to equip the OGCC with tools to effectively render legal 
services by redefining, expanding, strengthening, rationalizing and further 
professionalizing such institution.
sought
In view of the foregoing, the immediate passage of this bill is earnestly
RU N  M. DRILON
Senator