bettergovph/raw-philippine-data huggingface dataset:
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
F irs t R eg u lar S ession
fS lIirc , n f  t lif  ')* « 'I 
v  ,
■16 
l!JL 28 
An :08
SENATE 
S.B. No. 
910
!i '
'W : 
)
In tro d u ced  by SEN. WIN GATCHALIAN
AN ACT
MANDATING THE INCLUSION OF ELECTED AND APPOINTED 
BARANGAY OFFICIALS AS COMPULSORY MEMBERS OF THE 
GOVERNMENT SERVICE INSURANCE SYSTEM, AMENDING FOR 
THE PURPOSE PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 1146, AS 
AMENDED, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE "REVISED 
GOVERNMENT SERVICE INSURANCE ACT OF 1 9 7 7 ”
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This bill seeks to include elected and appointed barangay officials as
compulsory m em bers of the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS),
am ending for the purpose Presidential Decree (PD) No. 1146, as am ended,
otherwise known as the “Revised Government Service Insurance Act of 1977. ”
\
The barangay, as the basic political unit, serves as the prim ary planning 
and implementing unit of governm ent policies, plans, program s, projects, and 
activities in the community, and as a forum w herein the collective views of the 
people may be expressed, crystallized and considered, and where disputes may 
be settled. The barangay perform s its functions throu ^h their respective barangay 
officials who play a crucial role in promoting, dev»doping, and improving the 
general welfare of the barangay and its residents.
3 i - u .
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES ) 
First Regular Session 
)
1 
^
■S, •i'  'C 'llr *  0• 
/
 
■ 
. 1.
'16 
111 19 P2 '26
SENATE 
S. No. 
5 2 2
! : i  I
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
ESTABLISHING A COMPREHENSIVE ADULT MENTAL HEALTH PROGRAM IN 
THE COUNTRY, APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER 
PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The 1987 Constitution under Article II, Section 15 mandates that the State shall protect and 
promote the right to health of the people and instill health consciousness among them. 
Furthermore, under Article XIII, Section 11 mandates that State shall adopt an integrated and 
comprehensive approach to health development.
One aspect of our health which has not been given much priority by the government is mental 
health. Issues on mental health not only include problems on commonly known mental 
disorders such as depression, bipolar disorder (manic-depressive illness), attention- 
deficit/hyperactivity disorder, anxiety disorders and conduct disorder, but more importantly 
the effects on one's mind of the risks brought by extreme life experiences as well as the 
psychosocial concerns of daily living. Extreme life experiences such as disasters and armed 
conflicts as well as large-scale exodus of our skilled workers for jobs overseas contribute to 
mental disorder problems. In 2007, according to the Philippine Psychiatric Association, up to 
20 ^  of adults suffer from mental disorders. Given this dilemma, services for mental health 
must be available within the public health/hospital system of the country.
This bill seeks to provide a unified, accountable, comprehensive adult mental health service 
system in the country in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution in promoting the 
right to health of everyone. The proposed measure seeks to promote the independence and 
safety of adults with mental illness, and eliminate the abuses done to them by providing 
appropriate quality service that is consistent with contemporary professional standards in the 
field of mental health.
In view of the foregoing, the immediate passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
A N T (^ i6  “SONNY” f . TRILLANES IV
'  
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
F irs t R egular Session 
)
SENATE 
S. No.
DATE
BILLS
INDE)
In trod uced by S enator JUAN MIGUEL F. ZU BIR I
AN ACT
ABOLISHING IRRIG ATIO N SERVICE FEES AND SUCH OTHER SIM ILAR  OR 
RELATED FEES FROM BENEFICIARIES OF IRRIG ATIO N SYSTEMS FUNDED 
AND CONSTRUCTED BY, OR UNDER THE ADM INISTRATION OF THE 
NATIONAL IRRIGATION ADM INISTRATION, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE 
CERTAIN SECTIONS OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 3601, PRESIDENTIAL DECREE 
NO. 552 AND PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 1702
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The agriculture sector is still one of the major driving forces of the national 
economy, as the country remains agricultural. A vast majority of our rural population 
rely on farming or as farm workers for their livelihood. Irrigation is one of the primary 
factors for the growth of agricultural productivity. 
However, 1.34 million hectares of 
irrigable lands in the country are still without irrigation.
Irrigation is crucial to increase the productivity of our farmlands especially in the 
production of major staples, rice and corn, and is therefore key in ensuring food 
security of the nation. 
It also plays an important role in making crop diversification 
viable as it enhances multi-cropping even during the dry season.
In the Philippines, however, the government has adopted the policy that water 
resource is a commodity, and as such, the national government through the National 
Irrigation Administration (NIA), has been implementing various finance mechanisms to 
collect irrigation service fees (ISFs) from farmers.
Farmer-beneficiaries 
of 
the 
National 
Irrigation 
System 
(NIS) 
program 
administered by the NIA and Irrigators Associations (lAs) under the Communal 
Irrigation Systems (NIS) are forced to pay exorbitant ISFs. This has led to a substantial 
amount of expenses of our farmers allotted for irrigation services. 
As a result, many of 
our poor farmers could not afford to pay these exorbitant ISFs and led to huge amount 
of back accounts.
The government has justified this practice of collecting ISFs by propounding that 
the funds collected are necessary to pay for the salaries of the more than 5,000 NIA 
employees and workers.
Since 2009, the government has entered into the Participatory Irrigation 
Development Project (PIDP), a World Bank (WB)-assisted project that aims to transform 
the NIA into a strategically-focused and financially viable irrigation service through 
restructuring and reform programs in the irrigation sector that will include purportedly 
the rehabilitation and modernization of the NIS and the rationalization of the NIA.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
SENATE
s. B. No. 
.snn
BILLS &
Introduced by Senator Maria Lourdes Nancy S. Binay
AN ACT AMENDING SECTION 35 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8424, AS AMENDED, OR 
THE NATIONAL INTERNAL REVENUE CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES, BY 
GRANTING ADDITIONAL ALLOWANCE OF PERSONAL EXEMPTION FOR 
INDIVIDUAL TAXPAYER FOR CONTRIBUTIONS MADE TO DISASTER RELIEF, 
RECOVERY, AND REHABILITATION EFFORTS, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The objective of the proposed bill is to augment the financial and other resources of the 
country intended to provide much needed assistance to victims of disaster.
Thus, this bill proposes to amend Section 35 of Republic Act No. 8424, as amended, or the 
National Internal Revenue Code of the Philippines, by granting individual taxpayers 
additional personal exemption for contributions or donations made to the national and local 
government, educational and/or charitable, religious, cultural or social welfare corporation, 
institution, accredited nongovernment organization, foundations, and trust or philanthropic 
organization, which will be used to aid disaster victims.
In view of the foregoing, the passage of this bill is earnestly recommended.
MARIA LOURDE
CY S. BINAY
SEVENTEETH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
FIRST REGULAR SESSION 
)
^
 > r"a,ir
•16 
lUL 26 
A 9 53
SENATE
SENATE BILL NO. 898
i''
INTRODUCED BY SENATOR JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO
AN ACT
DIRECTING THE REDUCTION OF ELECTRICITY RATES THROUGH THE 
UTILIZATION OF THE GOVERNMENT SHARE IN THE DISCOVERY, 
EXPLORATION, DEVELOPMENT AND/OR PRODUCTION OF INDIGENOUS 
SOURCES OF ENERGY FOR THE PURPOSE OF LOWERING THE COST OF
ELECTRICITY
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Philippines is endowed with energy resources that are relatively 
abundant. Moreover, the 1987 Philippine Constitution promises that the 
development of these energy resources shall inure to the benefit of the Fihpino 
people. Sadly, the promise remained as such - a promise - until substantial reforms 
began recently when this Congress enacted Republic Act 9513, otherwise known as 
the Renewable Energy Act of 2008.
However, much is left to be desired with respect to other indigenous sources 
of energy. Govenunent impositions associated with making available such resources 
for electricity generation are more burdensome than those applied on imported fuels 
such that rates of electricity generated using indigenous energy resources are 
rendered artificially high.
Take for example, as of May 2010, government royalties on indigenous 
natural gas was aroimd P 1.46/kWh, which was 5 to 8 times more than the taxes 
imposed on imported fuels such as coal, oil and liquefied natural gas. If taxes and 
royalties were to be removed on both indigenous and imported fuels, the rates of 
electricity generated using indigenous energy resources would be substantially 
lower. Moreover, between indigenous petroleum which is intensively used for 
generating electricity and other local extractive industries such as mining, the former 
is being subjected to royalties of about 60% while the latter enjoys a much lower tax 
rate of 3%.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E  
S. B. No. 
7 2 8
o f t h t.^ r r T r f .'ir y
•16 JUL21 A10-.26
ny:i
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT
FURTHER AMENDING BAT AS PAMBANSA BLG. 129, OR 
THE JUDICIARY REORGANIZATION ACT OF 1980,
AS AMENDED
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This bill is being filed to possibly further enhance the disposition of cases in court.
Undeniably, vacant courts and the non-availability of courts have resulted in the 
clogging of court dockets, especially in areas where cases have significantly increased.
With this proposed amendment of Batas Pambansa Big. 129, as amended, it is 
believed that the Supreme Court shall be afforded the required flexibility in the 
management of courts. The re-assignment of judges from one judicial region or branch 
of a region to another through lateral transfer shall now be allowed as a matter of 
administrative prerogative on the part of the Supreme Court.
In view of the above, passage of this legislation with utmost dispatch is sought.
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session
)
SENATE
S.B. No. 130
lui
\a>
fRECEIVED"^
M n im  3 0 7nt|
TIMe;
BY; 
A •
ml
^BILLS &(|J9dcx
Introduced by Senator SONNY ANGARA
AN ACT
AMENDING SECTION 24 OF THE NATIONAL INTERNAL REVENUE CODE 
OF 1997, AS AMENDED, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This bill seeks to amend Section 24 of the National Internal Revenue Code of 1997, as 
amended, by adjusting the individual income tax brackets and reducing the rates of individual 
income tax beginning January 1, 2017.
Article VI, Section 28 (1) of the 1987 Constitution provides that “the rule of taxation shall 
be uniform and equitable” and for Congress to “evolve a progressive system of taxation” 
wherein the tax rates imposed must be based on the person’s ability to pay. However, after 
almost two decades, our individual income tax bracket has remained unchanged while the 
consumer price index (CPI) has more than doubled already. Bracket creep has pushed middle- 
income earners to higher tax brackets even without any “real” increase in their income. Our 
outdated, unfair and oppressive tax system has burdened our taxpayers for so long.
The bill is part of a twin measure to reduce the country's income tax rates for individuals 
and corporations in preparation for the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) 
Integration. While the ASEAN Blueprint does not mandate member countries to amend their 
income tax schedules, it is highly expected that human capital would flow to where it could earn 
best. Next to Thailand and Vietnam, the Philippines has the highest top rate at 32-percent. 
When the AEC Declaration was signed in 2007, some member-states began to lower their 
corporate and individual income tax rates, with further reductions in the subsequent years.
This bill aims to lower income tax rates across-the-board, reducing the highest tax rate 
from 32 to 25 percent by 2019, and to compress the tax brackets from seven to five. It also aims 
to make the tax table consistent with RA 9504 which exempts the income of the minimum wage 
earners from income taxes. 
Thus, this bill sets the lowest tax bracket at P70,000 taxable 
income taking into consideration the prevailing minimum wage.
The measure also spreads the reduction over a period of three years in order to buffer 
the revenue impact of the individual income bracket adjustments and the reduction of individual 
income tax rates. It further provides for indexation or automatic adjustment of the tax schedule 
every three years using the CPI so that inflation wiil not result in tax increases.
It must be stressed that taxation is not just a way for the government to raise revenue; it 
is also a means to build a more humane and just society, and to ensure upward mobility. In a 
highly unequal society like ours, genuine tax reform that ensures progressive taxation and 
income redistribution would promote social justice and would lead to greater equity and 
economic growth.
In view of the foregoing, immediate approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
SONNY ANGARA
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E  
S. B. No.
RECEIVED
v BILLS *? (lfjD E X
Introduced by SENATOR FRANKLIN M. DRILON
AN ACT ADJUSTING THE AMOUNT INVOLVED, VALUE OF PROPERTY 
OR DAMAGE ON W HICH A PENALTY IS BASED, AND THE FINES 
UNDER ACT NO. 3815, AS AMENDED, OTHERW ISE KNOWN AS THE 
REVISED PENAL CODE
EXPLANATORY NOTE
“In trying to formulate the aims of criminal law, it is important to be aware 
both of the reasons for making the effort and of the nature of the problem it poses.”1
The declaration captures the paradigm our policymakers customarily adopt in 
formulating our country’s penal laws, revealing the diverse socio-political aspirations 
advocated and considered during the legislative process. Retribution against the 
offender, deterrence of criminal behavior, protection of the public, rehabilitation of 
the lawbreaker, and restitution to the victim are among the manifold objectives 
carefully weighed by Congress in defining criminal acts and determining the 
corresponding penalties. The formulation of a sound, fair and effective policy against 
criminality involves a delicate balancing act.
In the 2014 case of Lito Corpuz versus People of the Philippines, 2 the Supreme 
Court turned the spotlight on the perceived injustice brought about by the range of 
penalties that the courts continue to impose on crimes committed today, based on 
the amount of damage measured by the value of money eighty years ago. The 
discussion called for the “much needed change and updates to archaic laws that were 
promulgated decades ago when the political, socio-economic, and cultural settings 
were far different from today’s conditions.” Lest the law run the risk of violating the 
constitutional prohibition against cruel and excessive punishment, the High Court 
urged Congress to wield its power in realigning the law with the goals for its passage.
The Revised Penal Code serves as the bedrock of the Philippine justice system, 
upon which the underlying principles and prevailing precepts on our society’s 
treatment of criminality rest. Since its enactment in 1930, the law remains virtually 
unchanged with only piecemeal amendments incorporated through the years. Eighty 
years had inevitably dulled the edge of a once sharp measure.
1 Harvard University Professor Henry M. Hart Jr. The Aim s o f the Criminal Law, 23 Law and Contemporary 
Problems 401-441 (Sum m er 1958). Accessed at http://scholarship.law.duke.edU/lcp/vol23/iss3/2/
G.R. No. 180016, 29 April 2014.
r
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
(fiffueof the(^riTct.iri{
SENATE
S. No. 617
•16 
JUL 19 
P 6 -07
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
AN ACT
AUTHORIZING THE USE OF THE SPECIAL FUND TO FINANCE THE 
MAINTENANCE, REHABILITATION, AND REPLACEMENT OF ENERGY 
INFRASTRUCTURE IN PREPARATION FOR AND IN RESPONSE TO NATURAL 
AND MAN-MADE CALAMITIES AS WELL AS TO FINANCE DIRECT SUBSIDY 
FOR ENERGY CONSUMPTION BY END USERS IN CASE OF MARKET FAILURE 
THEREBY AMENDING SECTION 8 OF PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 910
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Presidential Decree No. 910 mandated the creation of the Malampaya Fund for the purpose of 
financing "energy resource development and exploitation programs and projects of the 
government." The Malampaya Project is "a joint undertaking of the Philippine national 
government and the private sector spearheaded by the Department of Energy (DOE) and 
developed and operated by Shell Philippines Exploration B. V. (SPEX) on behalf of joint 
venture partners Chevron Malampaya LLC and the PNOC Exploration Corporation.1 The 
Malampaya Fund is derived from the proceeds of the Malampaya natural gas project off the 
coast of Palawan province that was started in 2001 with a current balance of PI37.288 
Billion, as recently confimried by the Bureau of Treasury.
Contrary however to the spirit of the law, during the previous administration, said Fund was 
allegedly siphoned off to finance anomalous transactions such as those involving dubious 
Foundations linked to Mrs. Janet Lim-Napoles, which resulted to a loss of 900 Million pesos 
due to ghost deliveries of goods for projects under the government. Said circumstance invited 
outrage from the citizenry and prompted the High Court to clip the discretionary powers of 
the President to touch the huge fund although it affimied the constitutionality of utilizing the 
same insofar as energy resource development and exploitation programs and projects of the 
government are concerned.
Aforesaid ruling, however, puts the President into a quandary on when he is allowed to tap 
the Fund. Case in point is the President's uncertainty whether he can use said Fund as subsidy 
for the direct benefit of electric end-users to minimize the financial brunt of the impending 
power hike of the largest power distributor in the country.
1 Please see: Ms. Sara Sollven de Guzman, The Malampaya Story. Accessed from  
http://w w w .philstar.eom /opinion/2013/10/28/1250232/m alam paya-storyon 12/16/2013.
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
> f n a t r
4ii«re gf
*16 
JNL I f  «ro*.31
S E N A T E
S. B. No. 
437
R Fa BIVEi)
In tro d u ced  by SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA
AN ACT ESTABLISHING THE LAKE LANAO DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY, 
DEFINING ITS POWERS, FUNCTIONS AND DUTIES, APPROPRIATING 
FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
Explanatory Note
Lake Lanao and its w atersheds are now in the middle of an ecological crisis. 
A 2006 study m ade by the M indanao State University found th at the Lake 
suffers from m assive algae contam ination brought about by indiscrim inate 
logging, extensive land-use and farming. These findings further raise the 
alarm  on the Lake’s situation following earlier reports th at around 90 
percent of its endemic freshw ater species are already extinct due to the 
introduction of foreign species in the Lake and the construction of hydro­
electric power plants in the area, which disturbed the w atershed’s ecological 
balance. W idespread illegal logging in its w atersheds has also affected the 
Lake’s ability to supply w ater to the Agus river which serves as its only 
outlet and supports hydroelectric powerplants.
The Lake’s continued deterioration is m ost unfortunate given its historical, 
cultural, economic and ecological im portance to the country. Known as one 
of the world’s 17 ancient lakes and the country’s largest freshw ater lake. 
Lake Lanao is found in the province of Lanao del Sur which is part of the 
Autonom ous Region in Muslim M indanao (ARMM). Being the only ancient 
lake in the Philippines, Lake Lanao is considered of prime ecological 
im portance which justified the establishm ent of the Lake Lanao W atershed 
way back in 
1992 p u rsu an t to Presidential Proclam ation No. 871. 
Considered as part of their ancestral dom ain. Lake Lanao is also of 
significant historical and cultural im portance to indigenous peoples, 
particulary the M aranao peoples who continue to live in areas surrounding 
the lake. More im portantly, it plays an im portant role in securing 
M indanao’s energy needs as it supplies w ater to its existing hydroelectric 
powerplants, collectively responsible for a big fraction of the island’s energy 
needs.
This bill seeks to establish an effective policy and regulatory adm inistration 
over Lake Lanao through the Lake Lanao Development Authority, thereby 
ensuring the prom otion and development of M indanao’s im portant n a tu r^  
resource base in a sustainable m anner. The salient provisions are as 
follows:
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E  
S.B.No. 112
BILLS
Introduced by Senator Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III
AN ACT
CREATING THE MINDANAO RAILWAYS CORPORATION 
PRESCRIBING ITS POWERS, FUNCTIONS, AND DUTIES, AND 
PROVIDING FOR THE NECESSARY FUNDS FOR ITS
OPERATION
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This bill seeks to create the Mindanao Railways Corporation 
(MRC) as a means to hasten the development of the island of Mindanao.
The collective experience of Japan, Canada, the United States of 
America and most of Europe shows how railroad networks have spurred 
and sped up the national development. In these nations, railroads opened 
up vast land areas for human settlement and made it possible to transport 
tremendous number of people and huge volume of goods at the lowest 
cost. The influx of people into areas previously unsettled, the easy 
mobility of the populace, and the availability of goods and services 
needed for civilized life means higher productivity of the land and its 
people.
A railroad network crisscrossing Mindanao will considerably 
shorten the travel time between Zamboanga and my hometown, Cagayan 
de Oro, or Davao and Cagayan de Oro. That will, in turn, mean a 
reduction of the travel cost for the people and for the transportation cost 
of the goods whose end destination is the Visayas or Luzon, or beyond 
our northern shores, or vice versa.
THE
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES ) 
First Regular Session 
)
‘received
•S.-01
DATIr^ UL 
1 9 2016-<
SENATE
s.no._526
m l
DILLS H INDEX - /
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillaiics IV
AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR AN INCREASE IN THE SALARY OF GOVEIWMENT 
PHYSICIANS AND ADDITIONAL INCENTIVES APPROPRIATING FUNDS 
THEREFORE
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Article 2, Section XVIII of the 1987 Constitution declares that the “State affirms labor as a 
primary social economic force. It shall protect the rights of workers and promote their 
welfare". However, the present condition of Doctors of Medicine working in government 
hospitals and publie health institutions runs counter to the aforementioned policy.
The entry level for resident physicians in government service is Php 43,439.00 as Medical 
Officer III. Althougli it is atypical for the Department of Health to confer Medical Officer I or 
II positions, local government units can do so. A junior resident physician who holds a 
position of Medical Officer I is entitled to a meager basic salary of Php 28,417.00. This docs 
not do justice to our hardworking doctors who have spent years in their studies and whose 
duty goes beyond the normal eight (8) hour workload.
The government has in effect escorted doctors out of the country making the Philippines the 
second-largest exporter of physicians, next to India, as per a World Health Organization 
(WHO) report. Recent studies confirm that seventy percent (70%) of doctors have emigi'atcd 
for higher-paying posts overseas and have even traded their medical profession to become 
nurses. Consequently, the exodus of doctors in the last five years is exacting a toll on the 
country s already second-rate health service. The ratio of doctor vis-a-vis patients in the 
Philippines is 1:28, 493 (one doctor per 28,493 Filipinos) - a far cry from the ideal 1:1,000 
ratio prescribed by the WHO.
This bill seeks to address this alaiming outflow of doctors and its repercussions by increasing 
the salary of government physicians and providing additional incentives therefor. This bill 
aims to afford our government doctors the right to a decent pay and benefits long withheld 
fiom them. The incentives shall include loyalty service pay, transportation, representation, 
food, and medical allowances, and educational grant redound.
In view of the foregoing, immediate passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
ANTONIONSONNY” F.'t RILLANES IV
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regulcir Session 
)
S E N A T E
S.B. No. 244
BILLS & INDEX
In tro d u ced  by SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA
AN ACT INSTITUTING THE MAGNA CARTA OF FILIPINO SEAFARERS
Explanatory Note
This bill seeks to recognize and protect the rights of the Filipino seafarers, 
integrate programs and policies that concern them, and assist in their 
development to continuously ensure their niche in the global arena through the 
establishment of the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers.
Filipino seafarers have been plying the world’s seas for over five centuries. In 
the 16th century, Filipino seafarers manned the ships sailing the Mexico-Manlla 
route of the Galleon Trade.
The advent of globalization led to the steady increase in the number of 
registered seafarers. Today, the Philippines is considered the world’s ship 
manning capital because it accounts for 30 percent of the 1.2 million seafarers 
in the global shipping fleet today.
Despite the rich history and significant role of the Filipino seafarers in our 
society, they have been given inadequate attention. Incidents of abduction, 
unjust compensation and on-board accidents have been reported yet no 
legislation has been passed to protect and uphold the rights of the seafarers 
and address their specific needs.
This measure seeks to deal with the shortcoming by creating a set of laws that 
focuses on the conditions and needs of the Filipino seafarer. The Magna Carta 
of Filipino Seafarers guarantees their right to humane working conditions and 
just compensation by ensuring that manning and crewing agencies provide 
adequate information about the on-board conditions as well as local and 
international laws that apply to the Filipino seafarer. Seafarers should be given 
ample time by the agency to examine his/her contract of emplo3mient and 
articles of agreement before he/she signs it. To ensure the security and safety 
of the overseas Filipino seafarers, they shall only be deployed in countries 
where their rights as Filipino sea-based migrant workers are observed and 
protected.
With the passage of thrs bill, more Filipinos will be given the knowledge and 
understanding of the transnational and globalized conditions the Filipino 
seafarers are experiencing through the establishment of the Filipino Seafarers’ 
Research and Resource Center by the Commission on Higher Education, in 
coordination with the University of the Philippines School of Labor and 
Industrial relations (UP SO LAIR). The Center shall conduct studies and
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
SENATE
S. B. No. 
180
S DATE
Uf) TIME:
BILLS & INDEX
Introduced by Senator Maria Lourdes Nancy S. Binay
AN ACT AMENDING REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9262, DEFINING ELECTRONIC 
VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN OR E-VAW, PROVIDING PROTECTIVE MEASURES 
AND PRESCRIBING PENALTIES THEREFOR, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Since the enactment of Republic Act No. 9262, or the Anti-Violence Against Women and 
Their Children Act of 2004 (“VAWC Law”), women and their children have been provided 
with additional legal alternatives and protection against abusive conduct and violence. 
However, the law has not taken into consideration the prevalent and widespread reach of the 
internet and communications technology.
With the ongoing development in information and communications technology, the general 
public has gained another medium of expression, both responsibly and irresponsibly. More 
than a form of communication, social media was used in several instances as a mode of 
disseminating scandals involving both television personalities and private individuals. While 
Republic Act No. 9995 or the Anti-Photo and Video Voyeurism Act of 2009, sought to 
prevent further acts of said nature from permeating the various medium of information and 
communications technology, the said law failed to address the form of violence brought on 
victims of such scandals, by reason of their special relationships with their assailants.
In this regard, the proposed amendment of the VAWC Law includes electronic violence 
against women and to offer protection to women in the form of E-VAW Protection Orders.
In view of the foregoing, the passage of this bill is earnestly recommended.
MARIA LOURDE
Y S. BINAY
SEVENTEE’NTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E
S. B. No. 794
3»puati'
i.f line of
'16 
JUL 21 
A11 -45
H 1*
n\-
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT
STRENGTHENING THE RULES ON THE PROPER USE AND DISPLAY OF OUR 
NATIONAL SYMBOLS AND THE RENDITION OF THE NATIONAL ANTHEM, 
AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8491, OTHERWISE 
KNOWN AS THE "FLAG AND HERALDIC CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES", AND
FOR OTHER PURPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Our Constitution mandates every citizen's obligation to love the country. 
Nationliood requires that its citizens agree on forms of expression that symbolize the 
respect, patriotism and love for this country.
Every nation articulates itself through these symbols, rites or ceremonies. Our 
national symbols, such as the national flag, the anthem, motto, coat-of-arms, and other 
heraldic items and devices not only link our collective consciousness to a history, but 
also as a reminder of how we, as a nation, must continuously strive for justice, equality, 
and freedom, which these symbols signify. Thus, the respect accorded the use of these 
symbols form the base of good citizenship and must be reiterated and strengthened.
The amendment of Republic Act No. 8491, or the law that prescribes the Code of 
the heraldic items and devices in the Philippines, is intended to invigorate love of 
country and underscore the importance of complyiiig with standard expressions of 
respect for our iiational symbols.
The intended amendment is focused on distilling the law by polishing the 
conceptual outline of the law; amending certain provisions for clarity, and updating the 
law in the light of contemporary changes in attitudes and idioms.
More importantly, the proposed amendments are necessary and timely in the 
light of practical issues with respect to the singing of the national anthem and the 
proper display of the flag that have arisen since its implementation in 1998.
For these reasons, the passage of the bill is earnestly requested.
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
S E V E N T E E N T H  C O N G R E S S  O F  T H E ) 
R E P U B L IC  O F  T H E  P H IL IP P IN E S  
) 
F IR S T  R E G U L A R  S E S S IO N  
)
•16 
JUL 20 
P 5:14
S E N A T E
S e n a te  B ill No.
719
R
 
5 - i v  
, 
' n y :
In tro d u c e d  b y  S E N A T O R  C Y N T H IA  A . V IL L A R
A N  A C T
S T R E N G T H E N IN G  
T H E  
S U S T A IN A B L E  
S A N IT A T IO N  
P R O G R A M  
B Y  
R E O R G A N IZ IN G  T H E  S A N IT A T IO N  U N IT  O F  T H E  D E P A R T M E N T  O F  H E A L T H  
A N D  P R O V ID IN G  F U N D S  T H E R E F O R
E X P L A N A T O R Y  N O T E
O n e  o u t o f e v e ry  fiv e  F ilip in o  h o u s e h o ld s  d o  n o t h a v e  a c c e s s  to  s a n ita ry  to ile t 
syste m . R e c e n t d a ta  fro m  U n ite d  N a tio n s  C h ild re n ’s F u n d  s h o w  th a t 2 8 %  o f th e  
p o p u la tio n  is s u b je c te d  to  in d ig n itie s  o f h a v in g  to  d e fe c a te  in  th e  o p e n , in p la s tic  
b a g s  o r b u c k e ts  d is p o s e d  o n  riv e rs  a n d  g a rb a g e  b in s. T h e  e m b a rra s s m e n t o f o u r 
c o u n try m e n  c o m p e lle d  to  d o  th is  d u e  to  la c k  o f p ro p e r to ile t fa c ility  h its  rig h t a t th e  
c o re  o f th e ir b e in g s. S a n ita tio n  a s  a  h u m a n  rig h t g o e s  d e e p  a n d  to u c h e s  o n  th e  b a s ic  
d ig n ity  o f e v e ry  p e rso n .
T h e  la rg e  n u m b e r o f th o s e  w ith o u t a c c e s s  to  p ro p e r to ile t fa c ilitie s  is a la rm in g  
c o n s id e rin g  th a t h e a lth  a n d  w e ll-b e in g  a re  c lo s e ly  c o n n e c te d  to  s a n ita tio n . T h e  
p re v a le n c e  o f s a n ita tio n -re la te d  d is e a s e s , s u c h  a s  c h o le ra  a n d  a m o e b ia s is , is an 
in d ic a tio n  n o t o n ly  o f u n h y g ie n ic  c o n d itio n s  o u r p e o p le  a re  d a ily  e x p o s e d  to, b u t o f 
th e  e x te n t o f p o v e rty  fa c e d  b y  th e  m a jo rity  o f F ilip in o s . In fa c t, d ia rrh e a  is o n e  o f th e  
le a d in g  c a u s e  o f m o rb id ity  in  th e  P h ilip p in e s .
F o r m a n y  ye a rs , v ita l re fo rm s  o n  th e  d e liv e ry  o f h e a lth  a n d  s a n ita tio n  s e rv ic e s  
h a ve  b e e n  p u s h e d  a t th e  b a c k -b u rn e r. T h e  s m a ll h e a lth  b u d g e t h a s  le d  to  lim ite d  
a c c e s s  o f h e a lth  s e rv ic e s . In s te a d  o f s u s ta in e d  a n d  c o n c re te  p ro g ra m s, th e  h e a lth  
s e c to r re s o rts  to  s h o rt-te rm  e x p e d ie n t s o lu tio n s  to  d e c a d e s -o ld  h e a lth  a n d  s a n ita tio n  
c o n c e rn s . L ittle  im p o rta n c e  is g iv e n  to  s a n ita tio n  d e s p ite  th e  p a s s a g e  o f th e  C le a n  
W a te r A c t o f 2 0 0 4  a n d  th e  ris in g  in c id e n c e  o f w a te r-b o rn e  d is e a s e s  o u tb re a k s , th e  
c o n tin u e d  d is re g a rd  o f th e  im p o rta n c e  o f s u s ta in a b le  s a n ita tio n  is a ls o  re fle c te d  on 
th e  h ig h  m o rb id ity  ra te  e s p e c ia lly  o f c h ild re n  a n d  p re g n a n t w o m e n .
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC} 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
}
First Regular Session 
}
S E N A T E  
Senate Bill No. 
41
b y ;___
V bills
Introduced by SENATOR LACSON
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The growing demands of modem society have correspondingly increased the 
need for governments to identify their citizens systematically. The government has 
issued Government Service Insurance System and Social Security System numbers, 
tax identification numbers, student numbers, and passport numbers, among others. But 
in reality, it is difficult and impractical for a person to carry and remember all these 
different multiple-digit codes, all of which basically serve a single purpose—to 
establish one’s identity.
In the Philippines, experience tells us how the public suffers constant delays 
and inconveniences in availing of basic public services and social security benefits 
due to inefficient and unreliable means of identifying the beneficiaries. Moreover, the 
quantum leaps in criminality and the continuing challenge of terrorism have rendered 
the need for a national identification system more urgent than ever.
Hence, this proposed measure endeavors to create and establish a National 
Reference System which shall record and provide a single official identification for all 
citizens and foreign residents of the Republic of the Philippines. The same system 
shall collect material information and assign a national reference number to each 
citizen and foreign resident, together with a national reference card.
The passage of this proposal shall help expedite and simplify government 
transactions and the delivery of basic services. In the context of efforts to fight 
criminality, terrorism and lawlessness, the proposed national reference system shall 
help facilitate the processes of apprehension and prosecution of those who have 
committed violations of the law.
In view of the foregoing considerations, early passage of this measure is 
earnestly sought.
PANFILO M. LACSON 
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
First Regular Session
S.B. No
SENATE
191
da tejJUN
BILLS
INTRODUCED BY: SENATOR EMMANUEL D. PACQUIAO
AN ACT
CREATING THE PHILIPPINE BOXING COMMISSION THEREBY 
STRENGTHENING THE COUNTRY’S STANDING IN BOXING SPORTS, 
ENSURING THE WELFARE OF FILIPINO BOXERS,
AND PROVIDING FUNDS THEREFOR
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Over the past decades, the Philippines did not only produce World Class Boxing 
Champions but a number of International Boxing Champions as well. These achievements 
show that Filipino boxers indeed possess superior physical strength, skills and talents, which 
if given the proper support of the State, will ensure our promising boxers top ranks in the 
world boxing arena.
While giving honor and glory to our country, international Filipino boxers risk their 
lives and limbs in this sport. Some even met their untimely death in the bout due to the lack, 
if not absence, of safety and emergency medical services, while some face retirement without 
any kind of financial assistance or access to medical case. Most often, we hear many of our 
boxing legends do not have pension benefits.
The boxing sport, now under the supervision of the Games and Amusement Board, is 
not given the proper and appropriate attention it deserves. Considering the growing 
popularity of this sport and the number of champions it has produced for the country, it is 
about time that we give due attention and consideration to this sport and to all our 
professional boxing champions. Hence, this proposed bill seeks to establish the Philippine 
Boxing Commission to be the single agency that will focus and steer the skills and talents of 
the youth towards its proper direction, to provide and implement the necessary welfare 
incentives and benefits long overdue to all professional boxers who have brought honor and 
prestige to our country.
In view of the foregoing, approval of this bill is eamei
EMMANUEL D. PACQUIAO
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
:. ;i 
(O ll'ir I'f I'lC
'16 
JUL 18 P5 59
S E N A T E  
S.B. No. 3 8 2
Ul • illV ».l' 11Y;._
In tro d u ced  by SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA
AN ACT TOTALLY BANNING LOGGING OPERATIONS FOR THE NEXT 
TWENTY-FIVE YEARS, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
Explanatory Note
This bill seeks to prohibit logging operations of any kind in any forest, tim ber 
land, forest reserve, or w atershed for the next twenty-five (25) years.
Deforestation is the conversion of forested areas to non-forest land use such as 
arable land, urban use, logged area or w asteland. Historically, this m eant 
conversion to grassland or to its artificial counterpart, grainfields; however, the 
industrial 
revolution 
added 
urbanization. 
Generally, 
this 
removal 
or 
destruction of significant areas of forest cover has resulted in a degraded 
environm ent with reduced biodiversity. In developing countries, m assive 
deforestation is ongoing and is shaping climate and geography.
In the Philippines, forest resources have continued to dissipate through the 
years. The country’s forest cover now stands at 7 million hectares, as com pared 
to the 30 million hectares th at it used to have.
There is an urgent need to stop deforestation in the country, which from 1990 
until 2000, was at the rate of 1.4%, the highest am ong the Southeast Asian 
nations. The benefits of ensuring the sustainable growth and development of 
our forest resource and the richness of our biodiversity are boundless and 
cannot be offset by commercial progress.
In view of the foregoing, the imm ediate passage of this bill is earnestly sought.
Senator
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E  
S. B. No.
/^ fR E C E IV E O V ,
z 0datEJUNJJ-2111£ T:
V f t  TIME; 
-  I
BILLS &
Introduced by Senator Juan Miguel F. Zubiri
AN ACT
CREATING THE MINDANAO RAILWAYS AUTHORITY (MRA), PRESCRIBING 
ITS POWERS, FUNCTIONS AND DUTIES, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE 
REPUBLIC ACT NO. 4156 ENTITLED "AN ACT CREATING THE PHILIPPINE 
NATIONAL RAILWAYS, PRESCRIBING ITS POWERS, FUNCTIONS AND 
DUTIES, AND PROVIDING FOR THE NECESSARY FUNDS FOR ITS 
OPERATION" AS AMENDED BY R. A. NO. 6366, APPROPRIATING FUNDS
THEREFOR,
AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES 
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This Bill seeks to im plem ent the Mindanao Railways Project by creating a national 
governm ent agency attached to the Office o f the President to be distinct and separate 
from  the Philippine National Railways whose scope and coverage as provided in 
Republic Act No. 4156 is proposed to te  amended.
The Philippines is now ranked as one o f the Developing Economies, far from  its 
status in the previous century as am ong the world's Least Developed Countries. 
However, the developm ent w ithin our archipelagic country itself deserves a closer and 
critical attention. The State has failed to supply many o f the distinct needs o f different 
regions. Many areas have practically lagged behind the country's general economic 
outlook in term s o f infrastructure, integration and access to basic public services.
Mindanao, a resource-rich geographical region o f 106,000 square kilometers, is 
one o f those areas that needs huge and focused inputs o f public investments. Its  mainly 
rural areas and few  urban and urbanizing areas are physically hard to access from  one 
point to another and therefore lose the benefits o f m arket and public services 
integration existing in other geographic regions like Central Luzon and Mega Manila.
The Constitution mandates in Section 21, Art. I I  Declaration o f Principles and 
State Policies tha t the State shall prom ote comprehensive rural developm ent. The 
Constitution also guarantees the basic human right to travel1. These mandates are not 
lost on the economic planners in the last century. In fact. Republic Act No. 4156 had set 
aside funds fo r the im plem entatin o f the Mindanao Railways Project.
Most recently, the NEDA has initiated the steps to finally put out a Feasibility 
Study, the results o f which will be vital to the im plem entation o f this Act. The Term s o f 
Reference o f the NEDA fo r the MRP declares, as follows2:
J liltp://www.gov.ph/conxlitutionx/I987-coiislilulion/ (AccessedJwie 30. 2016)
2 litlp://www.ite(ia.gov.pli/wp-coiilenl/uploads/20l5/04m)R-for-lhe-Co»ducl-of-lhe-FS-qf-MRP-23-04-I5-IATF.ST.pdf
€
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
First Regular Session
S E N A T ^
S. B. No. 
7 1
DATE
BILLS
INTRODUCED BY SENATOR ALAN PETER "COMPANERO" S. CAYETANO
AN ACT INCREASING THE MINIMUM BASE PAY AND ALLOWANCES OF THE 
PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE (PN P) PERSONNEL AND PROVIDING FUNDS
THEREFOR
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Police officials are mandated by the Constitution to maintain and preserve the peace 
and order in the country. They have given and continue to give much for the society -  even 
risking their lives to protect the citizens and uphold peace and order. Yet the government 
has not provided them well enough compensation, not even a living wage.
An entry level Police Officer (POl) only receives a basic salary of P14,834; such 
amount is way below the monthly living wage of P27,510 for a family of five f5) according 
to the National Wages and Productivity Commission. How can an entry level police officer 
provide for the needs of his/her family?
This bill seeks to double the current base pay of the lowest ranking police from 
P14,834 to P29,668 and increase its monthly allowances and other benefits from P7.862 to 
P20,862. Upon the passage of this Act, the minimum monthly gross pay of Police Officer 1 
will amount to P50,530.
As part of the intensified efforts of the new administration to curb criminality and 
illegal drugs in the countiy, the police force will play crucial role in keeping all our streets 
crime and drug free. In the past years, the police force has been neglected both in terms of 
professional development and institutional support Worse, there have been a number of 
personnel and officers who had been involved in petty and large-scale corruption cases. 
The increase in their monthly salaries and other benefits is a step towards revitalizing the 
police institution and attracting the best and the brightest young individuals to join the 
PNP.
Compared to our neighbouring countries, Filipino police and soldiers are underpaid, 
in Hong Kong, an entry level police officer receives a monthly salary of HK$21,410 - 
$34,255 or an estimate of P130,000-200,000 while in Singapore, they receive $1,975 - 
$2,537.50 monthly or an estimate of P66,000-85,000. A 2nd Lieutenant in Singapore’s 
military receives a monthly salary of $2,140-2,410 or $2,660-$2,890 when they are in 
combat service. This is approximately P72,000-P97,000,
Hence, the intent of this bill is to increase the base pay and allowances of Police 
Officers and Personnel of the Philippine National Police to give adequate compensation and 
additional benefits to men and women in uniform who risk their lives to protect the
\  A
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
First Regular Session 
)
Ip /fire  o f lh e(* - .r r r « .ir y
16 
JtJL 21 
AIO :47
S. B. No.
S E N A T E
744
K; c
"v+
Introduced by Senator FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
AN ACT
MODIFYING THE DEFINITION OF THE CRIMES OF RAPE, 
QUALIFIED SEDUCTION AND SIMPLE SEDUCTION INVOLVING MINOR 
CHILDREN AND RATIONALIZING THE PENALTIES THEREFOR, AMENDING 
FOR THE PURPOSE CERTAIN SECTIONS OF ACT NO. 3815, AS AMENDED, 
OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE REVISED PENAL CODE
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Pursuant to the obligation of the Philippines under the Convention on the Rights 
of the Child, this bill amends the provision of the Penal Code by raising the minimum 
age of consent to determine statutory rape to below 16 years of age. In this regard, it 
amends or repeals the other provisions of the Penal Code, as well as special laws with 
the attempt to address the disparity in the treatment of those persons who are below 
twelve (12) years old and those twelve (12) years but below 18 years of age.
A comparative observation of other countries' laws around the world shows that 
the Philippines has one of the lowest minimum age for determining statutory rape.
This bill also seeks to rationalize the penalties for rape, qualified seduction and 
simple seduction.
FRANCIS G. ESCUDERO
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
First Regular Session 
)
4
■i() 
JtIL 19 All -09
SENATE
s.No. 457
Introduced by Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trilianes IV
AN ACT
INCREASING THE MATERNITY LEAVE PERIOD TO ONE HUNDRED (100) 
DAYS FOR FEMALE EMPLOYEES IN THE GOVERNMENT SERVICE AND IN 
THE PRIVATE SECTOR, AND GRANTING AN OPTION TO EXTEND FOR AN 
ADDITIONAL THIRTY (30) DAYS WITHOUT PAY, AMENDING FOR THE 
PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 1161, AS AMENDED, AND FOR OTHER 
PROPOSES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The vital role of women in society and economy has long been recognized in our country. 
The Philippine Constitution under Art. 11, Sec. 14 states that the State shall recognize the role 
of women in nation-building and shall ensure the fundamental equality before the law of men 
and women. Also, Art. XIII, Sec. 14 of our Constitution, provides that the State shall protect 
working women by providing safe and healthful working conditions" taking into account 
their maternal functions, and such facilities and opportunities that will enhance their welfare 
and enable them to realize their full potential in the service of the nation.
In 2008, UNICEF cited the Philippines' Mortality Rate wherein thirty two (32) Filipino 
children (per 1,000 live births) die before the age of five and the Philippines ranked 86th 
among 190 countries with the higliest under-five mortality rate. The report also cited several 
recommendations that would help reduce our country's mortality rate among which is access 
to exclusive breastfeeding for a long period of time. WHO even recognizes breastfeeding as 
an ideal way of providing young infants with the nutrients they need for healthy growth and 
development.
This recognizes maternity as a vital social function played by women and protects the rights 
of working women and their infants to proper health care by increasing the maternity leave of