bettergovph/raw-philippine-data huggingface dataset:
C 3
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Tliird Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s. No. 
.'^183
Sni.*
lOHitr ,.l IV
S r i i n t f
•16 
JAN 28 P3 56
UKCEIVKl) ! I Y : . / T L
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
REGULATING THE SALT INTAKE OF CONSUMERS BY PROVIDING 
ALTERNATIVES TO THE CONVENTIONAL USE OF SALT. REQUIRING STRICT 
LABELLING STANDARDS. CONSUMER EDUCATION, AND INITIATING 
PARTNERSHIPS WITH THE FOOD INDUSTRY
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Constitution, Article 13, Section 12 provides:
Sec. 12. The State shall establish and maintain an effective food and 
drug regulatory system and undertake appropriate health manpower 
development and research, responsive to the country's health needs and 
problems.
In 2005, 35 million people died as a result of chronic diseases. Tliis is 60% of the 
total number of deaths in that year. Out of all deaths from chronic diseases, 30% were 
due to cardiovascular disease (CVD). We know that 80% of heart disease, stroke, and 
lype-2 diabetes and 40% of cancer can be prevented through cheap and cost-effective 
means.1 In the WHO World Health Report 2002, it is estimated that globally 62% of 
cerebrovascular disease and 49% of ischaemic (reduced blood supply) heart disease were 
caused by high blood pressure. Heart diseases are the primary cause of death for persons 
over 60 years of age and the second cause of death for persons aged 15-59 years. The 
report reviews strategies to reduce the risks associated with CVD and states that in all 
settings population-wide salt reduction strategies were the most cost-effective.2
'WHO Report. 2005.
2 Reducing Salt Intake In Populations, Report of a WHO Forum and Technical meeting 5-7 October 2006, 
Paris, France.
1
C3
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s. No. 
3147
; jSrnatr
*16 JAN 26 P3 *10
f i n r E I V E I )  I I Y : . /
Introduced by Senator M iriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
DIRECTING THE SECRETARY OF LABOR AND EM PLOYM ENT TO AW ARD A 
GRANT TO A  PUBLIC UNIVERSITY TO ESTABLISH THE CENTER FOR THE 
STUDY OF W OM EN AND W ORKPLACE POLICY
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Constitution, Article 13, Section 14, provides:
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 o f the nation.
In studies conducted on women in the workplace, it is shown that the Philippines 
is one o f the best places to work for women as the percentage o f women in management 
is the highest in Asia. However, despite the fact that women land managerial positions, 
there is still a wide gap o f salary between men and women. M oreover, women still have 
to assert themselves more to achieve the same level o f success for men. Even in various 
fields in Science and Technology, women are having a hard time performing their job 
because o f the highly patriarchal culture in the workplace.
This bill seeks to establish a Center that can provide our policymakers with 
sufficient information to assist women in the workplace.1
M IRIAM  DEI
m
»AN
0
1 This bill was originally filed during the Fourteenth Congress, Second Regular Session.
I
V
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E
S.B.No. 
3131
^ S rn a tf
•16 JAN 25 P6S1
U K C K IV K I) IJY:.
Introduced by Senator Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel HI
AN ACT
ABOLISHING THE ROAD BOARD CREATED BY VIRTUE OF 
REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8794 AND TRANSFERRING ITS POWERS 
AND FUNCTIONS TO THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC 
WORKS AND HIGHWAYS AND TO THE DEPARTMENT OF 
TRANSPORTATION AND COMMUNICATIONS, AMENDING 
FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8794
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Republic Act No. 8794 entitled, “An Act Imposing a Motor Vehicle 
User’s Charge on Owners of All Types of Motor Vehicles and for Other 
Purposes", created the Road Board to implement the prudent and 
efficient management and utilization of the special funds collected via 
Road User’s Tax, which are earmarked solely and used exclusively for 
(1) road maintenance and the improvement of road drainage, (2) 
installation of adequate and efficient traffic lights and road safety 
devices, and (3) air pollution control.
The collection from the road user’s tax was estimated at P90.72 
Billion from 2001 to December 2012. 
Past Commission on Audit 
(COA) reports showed vestiges of illegal utilization of Road User’s Tax 
over the years. 
For CY 2004-2008, the Road Fund was used for 
payment of salaries, allowances, maintenance, and other operating 
expenses of the Road Board properly chargeable to the regular budget, 
amounting to P515.50 Million unlawful expenses.
From 2001 to 2010, COA pointed out discrepancies amount to 
PI.495 Billion in the total collection of Road User’s Tax, as stated in the 
respective certifications of the Land Transportation Office and the 
Bureau of Treasury.
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s. No. 
3217
jS rn a tr
•16 FEB-2 P6 22 
\
KKCH IV KI) BY;
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR A CONSUMER PROTECTION OFFICE 
IN EVERY PROVINCE AND CITY
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Consumer protection consists of laws and organizations designed to ensure the 
rights of consumers as well as fair trade competition and the free flow of truthful 
information in the market. Philippine laws on consumer protection include Republic Act 
No. 7394, otherwise known as the Consumer Act of the Philippines, the Civil Code, and 
the Penal Code, among others.
Though the national government should certainly be primarily responsible in 
implementing these laws, local agencies can play key roles in protecting consumer rights 
and ensuring a competent marketplace, thus promoting economic growth and stability.
This bill seeks to create and institutionalize local consumer protection offices in 
every province and city. This will make it easier for ordinary individual consumers to 
access immediate assistance and information that would address their needs.
Each office is envisioned to be a one-stop consumer help center that will provide 
relevant information on goods and services available, finance and credit schemes, product 
safety, and redress options. It will also protect professionals from unfair competition by 
unlicensed practitioners and refer those who wish to pursue legal action to the Public 
Prosecutors* Office.
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s.No. 
3025
*15 OF.n "7 P6t)7
V, 
i : i  
i t \ .
Introduced by Senator Ralph G. Recto
AN ACT
CONVERTING THE MUNICIPALITY OF STO. TOMAS IN THE PROVINCE OF 
BATANGAS INTO A COMPONENT CITY TO BE KNOWN AS THE CITY OF STO. 
TOMAS
Explanatory Note
This bill seeks to convert the Municipality of Sto. Tomas into a component city of the 
Province of Batangas to be known as the City of Sto. Tomas,
In 1666, the Dominican friars established the town of Sto. Tomas in the province of 
Batangas. Known in the history as the birthplace of General Miguel Malvar, who took over the 
leadership of the revolutionary government during the Philippinc-Amcrican War when General 
Emilio Aguinaldo was captured in Palanan, Isabela in 1901.
It is the gateway to the provinces of Quezon, Camarincs Sur, Camarines Norte and 
Sorsogon, where the Southern Luzon Expressway and Maharlika Highway merge. Sto. Tomas is 
sixty (60) kilometers from Manila and is the town that separates the provinces of Laguna and 
Batangas. As certified by the Land Management Bureau of the Department of Environment and 
Natural Resources (DENR), the Municipality of Sto. Tomas has an approximate land area of Ten 
Tliousand Tliirty-two and 3767/10000 (10,032.3767) hectares.
In 2015, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), estimated the population of the 
Municipality of Sto. Tomas to be anywhere from 149,000 to 159,000. It has 947 industrial 
establishments, which arc predominantly in manufacturing and trading. Tlie Bureau of Local 
Government Finance (BLGF) certified that Sto. Tomas is a first-class municipality with an 
average annual income of One Hundred Five Million Four Hundred Seventy-Five Tliousand 
Four Hundred Forty-Tlircc Pesos and 83/100 (PI05,475,443.83).
Under the Local Government Code, a municipality is eligible to become a city if it has a 
population of at least 150,000; land area of 100 square kilometers; and income of at least PI00 
Million.
Applying these standards, the Municipality of Sto. Tomas can now be converted into a 
city aficr it has substantially achieved the required criteria in population, land area and income as 
provided by law.
In view of the foregoing, immediate approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Third Regular Session
S rn n tr 
lOihit »i •*!»
M6 
FEB-1 
P 3 « 8
SENATE
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
BROADENING THE SCOPE OF UNLAWFUL PRACTICES OF MATCHING 
FILIPINO WOMEN FOR MARRIAGE TO FOREIGN NATIONALS TO INCLUDE 
VARIOUS SCHEMES MADE AVAILABLE THROUGH THE INTERNET, 
AMENDING FOR THIS PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 6955
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The advancements in technology have made access to information a cinch with llic 
mere loueh of a button. Indeed, one can learn what is happening on the other side of the 
globe by aceessing the Internet, perhaps man’s most important communication tool ever. 
Vital information can be accessed, exchanged and viewed through this sophisticated 
technology.
Unfortunately, what good intentions the inventors had in mind, and good uses and 
purposes that internet offers can also be distorted for their own ends by unscrupulous 
elements that lurk in society.
What used to be mail-order bride schemes have become more sophisticated and 
accessible e-mail order bride schemes. The Philippines, unfortunately, has not been 
spared from this plague that has been touted as another version of human trafficking. 
Filipino women, hoping to escape the clutches of poverty, have been easy prey to 
syndicates offering these services, like one sells a piece of meat.
At the height of the mail order bride fever. Republic Act No. 6955 was enacted in 
1990 to declare unlawful, and thus provide for penalties for, the practice of matching
1
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s. No. 
a in fi
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
v&rnJitr
Ilf Mje^frrrtjri
M6 JAN 25 P5«6
i!f;< I'lv rc rj n v :
AN ACT
ESTABLISHING A GREEN ENERGY FOR HOMES AND BUILDINGS PROGRAM 
IN THE DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY TO PROVIDE FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TO 
PROMOTE RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL, AND INDUSTRIAL SCALE ENERGY 
EFFICIENCY AND ON-SITE RENEWABLE TECHNOLOGIES
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Constitution, Article 2, Section 16, provides:
The State shall protect and advance the right of the people to a 
balanced and healthful ecology in accord with the rhythm and harmony of 
nature.
In a study conducted by the US Congress, it was found that:
1. Homes and commercial or industrial buildings in the United States consume 
significant quantities of energy, including energy for electricity and heating, the 
generation or combustion of which creates significant quantities of greenhouse gas 
emissions;
2. In most cases, energy efficiency is the most cost-effective and rapidly 
deployable strategy for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, energy demand, and the need 
for long-distance transmission of energy;
3. On-site renewable energy generation reduces greenhouse gas emissions, 
demand on the electricity transmission grid, and the need for long-distance transmission 
of energy;
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s.No. ai9o
J > rn n tr
tijf
•16 FEB-1 P3:16
KECEIVEI) BY:__ b_
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
AUTHORIZING THE SECRETARY OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR AND 
EMPLOYMENT TO AWARD GRANTS TO LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS 
TO CARRY OUT EMPLOYMENT TRAINING PROGRAMS
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Constitution, Article 2, Section 18, provides:
The State affirms labor as a primary social economic force. It shall 
protect the rights of workers and promote their welfare.
In its 22-point labor and employment agenda, the government is prioritizing 
investments in the country's number one resource, its human resource, in an atmosphere 
of industrial peace and social justice.
Hence, this bill seeks to direct the Secretary of the Department of Labor and 
Employment, subject to the availability of appropriations, to award grants to local 
government units to carry out employment training programs to aid unemployed 
individuals in securing employment in a new area of expertise, particularly in emerging 
markets and industries, such as green technologies.1
This bill was originally filed during the Fifteenth Congress, First Regular Session.
1
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s. No. 
318G
jS rn n tr
lOHaf nJ t*i» ^rrrftiry
•16 
FEB-1 
P 3 « 9
KKCKIVE!) BY:
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
ESTABLISHING A PILOT PROGRAM PROVIDING FOR GRANTS TO 
ENCOURAGE ELIGIBLE INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION TO 
ESTABLISH AND OPERATE OFFICES FOR PREGNANT AND PARENTING 
STUDENT SERVICES FOR PREGNANT STUDENTS, PARENTING STUDENTS, 
PROSPECTIVE PARENTING STUDENTS WHO ARE ANTICIPATING A BIRTH 
OR ADOPTION. AND STUDENTS WHO ARE PLACING OR HAVE PLACED A
CHILD FOR ADOPTION
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Constitution, Article 2, Section 12 provides that:
Sec. 12. The State recognizes the sanctity of family life 
and shall protect and strengthen the family as a basic 
autonomous social institution. It shall equally protect the life 
of the mother and the life of the unborn from conception. The 
natural and primary right and duty of parents in the rearing of 
the youth for civic efficiency and the development of moral 
character shall receive the support of the Government.
Student parents have been increasing in numbers over the past few years. This 
phenomenon is highly attributed to teen pregnancy. A recent World Bank Report includes 
the Philippines as one of the 10 countries with increasing rates of teen pregnancy. Bishop 
Evangelista of the Diocese of Boac in Marinduque said the media's emphasis on sex had 
encouraged early sexual activity among teenagers.1
However, instead of debating the cause of these incidents, we need to help the 
young parents who need our guidance and assistance to stay in school and pursue their 
dreams in spile of their unplanned parenthood. A program that educates these student 
parents will go a long way in reaching out to them and keeping them in school where
1 Bishop blames media, Internet for Increased teen pregnancy. 26 September 2008. GMANews.tv
1
jSniatf
Ilf tljr ^*rrrfbr|
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s* No.____32.13
•16 FEB -2 P6:17
m:(.‘i:ivi:i) uv:
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
IMPROVING PUBLIC AWARENESS REGARDING SAFE USE OF THE INTERNET 
THROUGH THE ESTABLISHMENT OF AN OFFICE OF INTERNET SAFETY AND 
PUBLIC AWARENESS WITHIN THE NATIONAL TELECOMMUNICATIONS
COMMISSION
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Constitution, Article 2, Section 24 provides:
Section 24. The State recognizes the vital role of communication and
information in nation-building.
As we move further into the Information Age, more and more people are logging 
in to the information superhighway, more commonly known as the Internet. In a survey 
taken by Synovate1 on urban areas across the Philippines,2 it was shown that about 36% 
of Filipinos from these areas have Internet access while 41 % have mobile phones with 
Internet access.
As Internet usage increases, the perils likewise increase. Viruses, scam sites and 
sites with undesirable contents proliferate on a daily basis. To protect our people, our 
government must do what it can to aim our Internet users with useful information to 
combat the dangers that are spread across the world wide web.
1 Market research arm of Aegis Group Pic., a marketing services firm based in London.
2 Synovalc's Nationwide Urban Media Allas Survey 2007-2008 Wave 1.
I
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s. No. 
3119
S rn a tr
of tlir ^rrrrlavi
•16 JAN 25 P5:i4
■ni-:a:ivfc:i) b y :
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
MODERNIZING THE CRIME INVESTIGATION TECHNIQUES 
OF LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Constitution, Article 2, Section 5, provides:
The maintenance of peace and order, the protection of life, liberty 
and property, and the promotion of the general welfare are essential for the 
enjoyment by all the people of the blessings of democracy.
Crime investigation is essential in the administration of Justice. The conviction or 
acquittal of an accused will depend on the quality of investigative work conducted by our 
law enforcement personnel. The problem is that some of the techniques employed by the 
PNP in crime investigation are outdated. These procedures have long been replaced by 
tlieir counterparts in first world countries.
An example is paraffin testing to determine if a person in interest has handled a 
gun in connection with the investigation of a possible crime. This is largely considered 
unreliable in countries with advanced crime investigation techniques. When a firearm is 
discharged, an assortment of vapors and particulate material are expelled in the area 
around the firearm. These products of firearm discharge are collectively referred to as 
gunshot residues. Gunshot residues have been used in criminalistics to estimate firing 
distances, identify bullet holes, and to determine whether or not a person has discharged a 
firearm. Studies in the United States have shown, however, that it is not essential for a
o
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Third Regular Session
SENATE 
s.No. 3013
^
f n 3 , r
•15 NQV24 P3145
I< K f'K IV K D  IIY:
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
TO FACILITATE THE DEVELOPMENT, DEMONSTRATION. AND 
IMPLEMENTATION OF TECHNOLOGY FOR USE IN REMOVING GREENHOUSE 
GASES FROM THE ATMOSPHERE AND CREATING A GREENHOUSE GAS 
EMISSION ATMOSPHERIC REMOVAL COMMITTEE
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Constitution, Article 2, Section 16 mandates that the State shall protect and 
advance the right of the people to a balanced and healthful ecology in accord with the 
rhjthm and harmony of nature. In Section 20 of the same article, the Constitution 
likewise mandates that the State recognizes the indispensable role of the private sector, 
encourages private enterprise and provides incentives to needed investments.
Greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide have been proven by scientists around the 
world to cause global warming. Despite this scientific fact, very few initiatives have been 
undertaken by the public and private sectors to develop and apply technologies that 
would reduce the emission of these substances.
This bill seeks to promote research to develop technologies applicable to various 
industries that would lessen their adverse effect to the environment by minimizing the 
emission of the greenhouse gases.1
1 This bill was originally filed in the Fourteenth Congress. First Regular Session, and refilcd in 
the Fifteenth Congress, First Regular Session.
1
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s. No. 
3180
rS "'"-1' 1’
'16 JAN 28 P3 54
RK( KIVKI) HY:
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
PROHIBITING THE DISPOSAL OF ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT 
AT SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT FACILITIES
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Constitution, Article 2, Section 16, provides:
The State shall protect and advance the right of the people to a 
balanced and healthful ecology in accord with the rhythm and hannony of 
nature.
Electronic equipment contains heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, and mercury, 
as well as other hazardous components or additives. Left to traditional disposal methods, 
these components of electronic equipment can pose a significant threat to public healtli 
and tlie environment. Requiring the recycling and reuse of this equipment will reduce the 
amount of hazardous materials being discarded in solid waste management facilities.
This bill would prevent the proliferation of this waste stream; it would also force 
the recycling of the reusable parts of electronic equipment.1
MIRIAM DEFl(jNSOR SANTI GO
1 This bill was originally filed during the Fourteenth Congress, Third Regular Session.
1
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s.B.No. 303G
4 
1 i l ’
•15 DEC 16 P l : l 9
KKCDIVKO BY:
<?
Introduced by Senator TEOFISTO "TG" GUINGONA III
AN ACT
EXEMPTING WATER DISTRICTS FROM THE PROVISIONS OF ILA. NO. 7656 
WHICH REQUIRED GOVERNMENT-OWNED AND CONTROLLED 
CORPORATIONS TO REMIT 50% OF THEIR ANNUAL NET EARNINGS TO
THE NATIONAL GOVERNMENT
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Republic Act No. 7656 requires local water districts to remit 50% of their 
annual net earnings to the National Government. This poses a threat to the viability 
and financial stability of local water districts. It limits the purposes on which local 
water districts are created under Presidential Deaee No. 198, especially in the 
expansion, improvement and maintenance of water supply system and in the 
operation and maintenance of waste water collection treatment and disposal 
facilities.
Understanding the plight of local water districts. Congress recently passed 
Republic Act No. 10026, exempting local water districts from income taxes, 
recognizing that savings to be derived thereof shall be utilized for water expansion 
services. But this is not enough.
Water is the most fundamental of all human needs. Water supply is a primary 
concern and responsibility of the government. Local water districts are the conduits 
of the government in undertaking such great responsibility. They should be given 
full support in handling this most essential function of government.
In view of the foregoing considerations, amendments to Republic Act No. 
7656 is called for to include local water districts among those exempted from 
remitting 50% of their annual net earnings to the National Goverrunent.
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE ) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES )
Third Regular Session 
)
tl.r J^nlftar^
•15 NOV-5 R2 *12
S E N A T E
Senate B ill No.
3002
K IX  K IV K i) HY;
(In Substitution of Senate Bill Nos. 802, 2184, 2234,2673, and 2766, 
taking into consideration House Bill No. 5299)
Prepared and submitted jointly by the Committees on Agriculture and Food, Tourism, 
and Ways and Means with Senators Trlllanes IV, Lapfd, Ejercito, Angara, and Vlllar 
as authors
AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR THE DEVELOPMENT AND PROMOTION OF FARM TOURISM IN 
THE PHILIPPINES AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
Be it enacted by the Senafe and House o f Representatives o f the Philippines in 
Congress assembled:
1 
SECTION 1. S hort Title. -  This Act shall be known as the "Farm Tourism
2 
Development Act of 2015."
SEC. 2. Declaration o f Policy. -  The State recognizes the importance of 
agriculture in making available food and other products necessary to sustain and 
enhance human life, and in providing livelihood to a major portion of the population. 
The State further recognizes that tourism, coupled with agriculture extension
7 
services, can disseminate the value of agriculture in the economic and cultural
8 
development of the country, serves as a catalyst for the development of agriculture
9 
and fishery communities, and provide additional Income for farmers, farmworkers, and
10 
fisherfolk.
11 
The State shall also seek to promote environment-friendly, efficient and
I
12 
sustainable farm practices; provide alternative recreation facilities and farm tourism
13 
activities for families, students and other clientele; and promote health and wellness
14 
with high-quality farm-produced food.
15 
To maximize the benefits that can be derived from agriculture and tourism
16 
combined, it Is therefore the declared policy of the State to provide the policy and
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
) 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
V
"vN'iI  
^ n in tr
•16 FEB-1 
P 6 « 4
SENATE
s.B .N o. 320G
K i:r K IV K I)  HY:
Introduced by: Senator Paolo Benigno "Bam" A. Aquino IV
A N A a
INSTITUTIONALIZING A PHILIPPINE BAMBOO INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
Explanatory Note
There Is tremendous potential In the bamboo Industry. Globally, the value o f exports of 
bamboo and bamboo products is estimated to be US$12 billion. Locally the reported value of 
exports o f bamboo and bamboo products In 2014 was US$ 10 million. Bamboo production and 
processing has provided direct and Indirect employment to an estimated 190,000 people and 
these numbers can continue to climb, w ith the right support systems In place for the Industry.
However, bamboo Is officially classified as a minor forest product by virtue o f PD No. 
705 otherwise known as the Revised Forestry Code. As a consequence o f this classification, the 
main considerations and attention o f the Department o f Environment and Natural Resources 
(DENR) has been focused on tim ber and tim ber products, which Is understandable because of 
timber's sizable economic contributions.
But w ith the destruction o f our forests and the diminution o f the supply o f wood and 
wood products for construction, there are attempts to fill the void with suitable substitutes 
such as bamboo.
Bamboo has always been an important construction material In the rural areas. Because 
of Its versatility It has found applications In many uses, from house construction, farm 
Implements, kitchen utensils, furniture and handicrafts. Bamboo Is also relatively cheap given 
Its ubiquity and ready availability In the rural areas. However, its low price Is also a result of low 
natural durability against agencies o f deterioration and Its poor reputation as a material for 
construction.
Fortunately, the research sector has been working on technologies to lengthen the 
service life o f bamboo and has developed new bamboo products such as engineered bamboo, 
which can take the place o f wood as panel products and for structural purposes. Today, 
furniture and handicraft manufacturers Incorporate bamboo In the design of their products 
w ith amazing results, even attracting foreign buyers. Bamboo has also become a medium In 
carving and architects have designed structures entirely made o f bamboo.
In the environmental front, bamboo has been found to excellently reduce erosion. It Is 
also capable of absorbing heavy metals In mlned-out areas. Studies have also shown that It can 
sequester carbon dioxide o f about 45% o f Its dry weight.
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
Third Regular Session
)
S c n ;itr
<9ff«rr of i(]« ^ r a r b r |
16 JAN 21 
A9 ‘4 ]
SENATE 
S. No. 3090
(In substitution of S.B. No.;2759)
KECEIVED BY:
Prepared by the Committee on Labor, Employment and Human Resources 
Development with Senators Jingqoy Estrada and Sonny Angara as authors
AN ACT
AMENDING CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF R.A. 9547 OTHERWISE KNOWN 
AS AN ACT STRENGTHENING AND EXPANDING THE COVERAGE OF 
THE 
SPECIAL 
PROGRAM 
FOR 
EMPLOYMENT 
OF 
STUDENTS, 
AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE PROVISIONS OF R.A, 7323, OTHERWISE 
KNOWN AS THE SPECIAL PROGRAM FOR EMPLOYMENT OF STUDENTS
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled:
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8 
9 
10 
11 
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20 
21 
22
23
24
SECTION 1. Section 1 of RA 9547 is hereby amended to read as follows:
"SEC. 
1. Any provision of law to the contrary 
notwithstanding, any person or entity employing at least ten 
(10) persons may employ poor but deserving students, OUT- 
OF-SCHOOL 
YOUTH 
(OSY) 
OR, 
DEPENDENTS 
OF 
DISPLACED OR WOULD-BE DISPLACED WORKERS DUE 
TO BUSINESS CLOSURES, OR WORK STOPPAGES, OR 
NATURAL CALAMITIES, INTENDING TO ENROLL IN ANY 
SECONDARY, TERTIARY OR TECHNICAL-VOCATIONAL 
INSTITUTIONS, fifteen (15) years of age but not more than 
[twenty-five (25)] THIRTY (30) years old, paying them a salary 
or wage not lower than the minimum wage for private 
employers and the applicable hiring rate for the national and 
local government agencies: Provided, that students enrolled in 
the secondary level shall only be employed during summer 
and/or Christmas vacations, while THE OSY AND those 
enrolled In the tertiary, vocational or technical education may 
be employed at any time of the year: Provided, further, That 
their period of employment shall be from twenty (20) to [fifty- 
two (52)] SEVENTY-EIGHT (78) working days only, except that 
during Christmas vacation, employment shall be from ten (10) 
to fifteen (15) days, which may be counted as part of the 
students' probationary period should they apply in the same
c
J^nuitr
(O llu r 1'^ •♦•jf > r  tr1 j» |
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
) 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
) 
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE
Senate Bill No.. 3035
'15 
OEC ]A 
P6 2 6
i:|) KY;
Prepared jointly by the Committees on Public Works: Local Government: 
Economic Affairs: W o/s and Means: and Finance, with Senators Recto, 
Marcos, Jr., Angara, Ejerclto and Legarda, as authors.
AN ACT AUTHORIZING PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS, 
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
Be It enacted by the Senate and the House of Represenfaf/Ves of the 
Philippines In Congress assembled:
1 
SEC. 1. Short Title. - This Act shall be known as the "Public-Private
2 
Partnership (PPP) A ct" of the Philippines.
SEC 2. Declaration of Policy. -  It Is the declared policy of the State to
recognize the indispensable role of the private sector as the main engine for 
national growth and development, create an enabling environment for PPP, 
and provide the most appropriate incentives to mobilize private resources for
7 
the purpose of financing, designing, constructing, operating and maintaining
8 
infrastructure projects and services normally financed and undertaken by the
9 
government.
The State recognizes the long-term nature of private investment in
10
11 
infrastructure projects and services.
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENA 
S. No.
JI77
jS rn a Ir 
'16 JAN 28 P3 52
K L C L IV K I) BY;
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
ASSISTING YOUNG ATHLETES BY PROVIDING 
PROGRAMS AND INCENTIVES FOR THEIR DEVELOPMENT
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Constitution, Article 2, Section 17, provides:
The State shall give priority to education, science and technology, 
arts, culture and sports to foster patriotism and nationalism, accelerate 
social progress, and promote total human liberation and development.
Young athletes arc the future of the sports program of any nation. The 
perfonnance of the most successful countries in tlie Olympics shows us that their gold 
winning athletes started really young in their chosen events. This bill seeks to assist 
young athletes by giving them financial incentives and helping in their development. It 
involves helping young athletes in three ways. First, it allows them to be members of 
sports clubs and programs. Second, it gives incentives to these sports clubs and programs. 
Third, the bill also focuses on the improvement of sports facilities. If we are serious about 
our national sports program, we should start with measures that help our youngest 
athletes.1
MIRIAM DEI^NSOR'SANT 
tic
0
1 This bill was originally filed during the Fifteenth Congress, Third Regular Session.
1
1 /
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s*No.___3218
J&cnatr
t]6 FEB-2 P6 22
U r.rK IV E I) BY;—
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR A COASTAL TOURISM PLANNING 
AND DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Made up of 7,107 islands, the Philippine archipelago is located favorably in 
relation to many of Southeast Asia’s main water bodies and boasts of a rich marine 
biodiversity. Coral-fringed islands are home to a variety of wildlife, stunning beaches, 
and rich indigenous cultures. In short, the Philippines offers so much opportunity for 
coastal tourism; yet, this is one area which has not yet been the subject of policy-making 
and rational planning.
Many coastal communities depend on healthy coastal ecosystems and clean 
coastal waters for their survival. Many are tourist destinations; in fact, tourism is one of 
the main sources of income for many coastal communities. However, rapidly growing 
coastal populations, increasing number of visitors, and unsustainable coastal development 
are degrading the water quality and destroying the habitats that are the main attractions of 
coastal areas. Further, there seems to be a lack of rational planning by some local 
government units in coastal areas, exemplified by the wanton construction of large-scale 
resorts in Boracay.
To create long-term opportunities, a program that reconciles tourism, 
conservation, sustainable development, cultural integrity, ecological balance, and 
environment protection should be institutionalized.
• I
o
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s.B.No. 
anni
^
r n n ir
•15 NOV-4 P4 36
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
ENSURING THE FREE EXERCISE BY THE PEOPLE OF THEIR RIGHT 
PEACEABLY TO ASSEMBLE AND PETITION THE GOVERNMENT
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Constitution, Article 3, Section 4, provides:
No law shall be passed abridging the freedom of speech, of 
expression, or of the press, or the right of the people peaceably to assemble 
and petition the government for redress of grievances.
Freedom of assembly is one of the cornerstones of democracy and a well- 
functioning civil society. Together with the rights of expression and association, it is at 
the heart of classic fundamental rights because they form the basis for people's societal 
influencing and organization. As such, they have been ensured in the Universal 
Declaration of Human Rights and in many general or group-related Conventions on 
human rights.
However, such right, though fundamental and constitutionally protected, is not 
absolute. Reasonable "time, place and manner" regulations may be necessary to further 
significant governmental interests. The nature of a place, “the pattern of its normal 
activities, dictate the kinds of regulations of time, place, and manner that are 
reasonable.” Cox v. Louisiana, 379 U.S. 559 (1965); Adderley v. Florida, 385 U.S. 39 
(1966). For instance, making a speech in a library would certainly infringe upon the 
convenience and welfare of others, but that same speech should be perfectly appropriate 
in a park.
1
o
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s. No. 
3044
*15 DEC 16 P5^)3
IIlU ’KIVi:!) BY:
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
REQUIRING ALL GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS AND AGENCIES TO ISSUE A 
REPORT TO THE CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION AND CONGRESS REGARDING 
THE FEASIBILITY OF ALTERNATIVE WORK SCHEDULES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Flexible work hours and alternative work schedules arc the wave of the future. Our 
work place must change with the times.
This bill calls for various state agencies to report back to the Civil Service 
Commission and the legislature as to methods by which flexible work hours can be 
enhanced in state government. Flexible work hours create a win-win situation for all 
involved. Absenteeism and lateness are reduced. Productivity is enhanced. Statewide 
offices would be open longer to serve the public, and traffic congestion would be relieved 
due to the fact that people would be working staggered hours.1
This bill was originally filed during ihe Fourteenth Congress, Second Regular Session.
1
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E  
S. B. No. 3220
Srnatr
•16 FEB-3 A9 *10
K i: r i: iV E i)  b y :
Introduced by Senator Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III
AN ACT
EXEMPTING FROM INCOME TAX, VALUE-ADDED TAX, AND 
IMPORT DUTIES THE WINNINGS AND/OR PRIZES OF MISS
PIA ALONZO WURTZBACH AS 
MISS UNIVERSE 2015, AND FROM DONOR’S TAX ANY 
DONATION MADE BY HER FROM SUCH WINNINGS AND/OR
PRIZES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach, the 26-year old beauty from Cagayan de 
Oro City, was crowned as the winner of the 64th Miss Universe Pageant 
held on December 21, 2015 in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA, besting 
seventy nine (79) other candidates from all over the world. As Miss 
Universe, Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach will be receiving a year-long salary as 
Miss Universe, luxury accommodations in a New York City apartment 
for the duration of her reign, including living expenses, and designer 
evening wear, swimwear, and shoe wardrobe, all of which may be 
subject to income tax and import duties once brought back home by her.
In this vein, this bill seeks to exempt from income tax, value-added 
tax (VAT), and import duties all winnings and/or prizes awarded to Pia 
Alonzo Wurtzbach as Miss Universe 2015, on account of the 
tremendous honor and recognition she has brought to our country and to 
all Filipinos.
Likewise, the measure also seeks to exempt from Donor’s Tax any 
endowment or contribution made by Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach from such
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE
s.No.__aiBA.
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
REGULATING TERATOGENS
c:
rS 9 fl,;itr
• 
l O l f a r  r f  t ljr
*16 JAN 28 P3 ^43
u i:ri:iv r.i) uy:
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Constitution, Article 2, Section 15, provides;
The State shall protect and promote the right to health of the people 
and instill health consciousness among them.
A teratogen is an agent which can cause a birth defect. It is something in the 
environment that the mother may be exposed to during her pregnancy. It can be a 
prescribed medication, alcohol use, a street drug, or a disease that the mother has, which 
may increase the chance for the baby to be bom with a birth defect. Birth defects are 
functional or stmctural abnonnalities present at birth that cause mental or physical 
disability. Some of these birth defects may be fatal. Researchers have identified 
thousands of different birth defects. Currently, birth defects are the leading cause of death 
for infants during the first year of life.
It is estimated that 10% of all birth defects are caused by a prenatal exposure to 
teratogen. These exposures include, but are not limited to, medication or drug exposures, 
maternal infections and diseases, and environmental and occupational exposures such as 
ionizing radiation or environmental chemicals. Teratogen-caused birth defects are 
potentially preventable. Studies have shown that nearly 50% of pregnant women have 
been exposed to at least one medication during gestation. An additional study found that
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Third Regular Session
)
Srnatr
•16 FEB-2 A9 39
SENATE
Senate Bill No. 3209 
(In Substitution of House Bill No. 5572)
iu:n:ivi:i) uy:__Y—
Prepared by the Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations and Gender 
Equality with Senator Cayetano (P.) as author thereof
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20 
21 
22
23
24
25
AN ACT
PROVIDING 
STRONGER 
MEASURES 
AGAINST 
UNLAWFUL 
PRACTICES, 
BUSINESSES, AND SCHEMES OF MATCHING AND OFFERING FILIPINOS TO 
FOREIGN NATIONALS FOR PURPOSES OF MARRIAGE OR COMMON LAW 
PARTNERSHIP, REPEALING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 
6955. 
ALSO REFERRED TO AS THE “ANTI-MAIL ORDER BRIDE LAW”
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
* •
SECTION 1. Short Title. -  This Act shall be known as the uAnthMall Order 
Spouse Actn.
SEC. 2. Declaration o f Policy. -  It is hereby declared the policy of the State to 
protect and guarantee the Individual rights of the Filipino people. Towards this end, the 
State shall prevent the exploitation of Filipinos, and protect them from unlawful 
practices, businesses, and schemes which offer Filipinos for marriage to unscrupulous 
foreign nationals and expose them to abuse, exploitation, prostitution, and violent 
situations.
SEC. 3. Prohibited Acts. — It shall be unlawful for any person, whether natural 
or Juridical, to commit, directly or Indirectly, any of the following acts:
a. ) Engage in any business or scheme for money, profit, material, economic or
other consideration which has for its purpose the matching or offering of a 
Filipino to a foreign national for marriage or common law partnership on a mail­
order basis or through personal Introduction, email, or websites on the internet;
b. ) Exhibit, advertise, publish, print, or distribute, or cause the exhibition,
advertisement, publication, printing, or distribution of brochures, flyers, or 
propaganda materials which are calculated to promote the prohibited acts in the 
preceding paragraph, or to post, advertise, or upload such materials through 
websites on the internet;
c. ) Solicit, enlist, or in any manner, attract or induce any Filipino to become a
member in any club or association whose objective is to match Filipino nationals 
to foreign nationals for the purpose of marriage or common law partnership for a 
fee; and
d. ) To use the postal service or any website on the Internet to promote the prohibited
acts under this Section.
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Third Regular Session,
[ 
SENATE
i 
s. No. 
3202
J&rnalr
ifll.te of
•16 FEB-1 
P3 22
lU X 'K l V I'.I) IIY;
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago 
1 
’ * y
AN ACT
ESTABLISHING A POST TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER AWARENESS 
I 
AND EDUCATION PROGRAM
EXPLANATORY NOTE
(
I
The Constitution, Article 2, Section 15, provides:
The State shall protect and promote the right to health of the people
and instill health consciousness among them.
Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an anxiety disorder that develops as a 
result of a terribly frightening, life-threatening, or otherwise highly unsafe experience. 
PTSD sufferers reexperience the traumatic event or events in some way; tend to avoid 
places, people, or other things that remind them of the event; and arc especially sensitive 
to normal life experiences. PTSD has only been recognized as a formal diagnosis since 
1980. However, it was called by different names as early as the American Civil War, 
when combat veterans were referred to as suffering from “soldier’s heart.” In World War 
I, symptoms that were generally consistent with this syndrome were referred to as 
“combat fatigue.” PTSD has also been called “battle fatigue” and “shell shock.”
Statistics regarding this illness show that about 7%-8% of people in tlie United 
States will likely develop PTSD in their lifetime, with the lifetime occurrence in combat 
veterans and rape victims ranging from 10% to as high as 30%. Somewhat higher rates of 
this disorder have been found to occur in African Americans, Hispanics, and Native 
Americans compared to Caucasians in the United States. Some of that difference is 
thought to be due to higher rates of dissociation soon before and after the traumatic event,
1
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
)
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
SENATE
S .N o ._ a O 0 f i
S rn atr
? » rrT ft3 ru
•15 NOV-9 P4*47
KFCHiVEt) BY;,
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
AN ACT
TO PROTECT CONSUMERS BY PROMULGATING 
UNIFORM MANUFACTURING STANDARDS FOR BICYCLE HELMETS
AND PROMOTING ITS USE
EXPLANATORY NOTE
There is no law prescribing manufacturing standards for bicycle helmets. This is 
necessary considering that the practice of wearing bicycle helmets is rare in the country 
and that the promotion of its use could prevent bicycle-related head injuries.
The bill mandates government offices authorized to prescribe uniform standards in 
the manufacture of bicycle helmets. The Department of Transportation and 
Communications is authorized to establish grants for programs that require or encourage 
individuals to wear approved bicycle helmets.1
MIRIAM DEFENSOR SA N TIi^O
1 This bill was originally filed in the Thirteenth Congress. First Regular Session.
'
A
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC 
OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Third Regular Session
SENATE
s. No. 
3138
*16 JAM 26 P2S7
U E C B IV E I) BV:
Introduced by Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago
<1
AN ACT
REQUIRING PERSONS WHO MAY REGISTER AS VOTERS 
TO PRESENT ANY PROOF OF LEGAL RESIDENCE, AMENDING FOR THE 
PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8189, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE VOTERS 
REGISTRATION ACT OF 1996 AND PROVIDING PENALTIES THEREFOR
/
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Omnibus Election Code, the law governing elections in the Philippines,
/
specifically provides that all citizens of the Philippines qualified to vote, who shall have 
resided in the city or municipality wherein they propose to vote for at least six months 
immediately preceding the election, may be registered as a voter. However, no basic 
proof of legal residence to determine that one has actually resided in the place where he 
proposes to vote within the prescribed period is required for registration. This is a 
mockery of the residency requirement of the law.
This situation mainly contributed to the registration of a great number of registered 
electors by listing even the non-existing residence which had notoriously become a vast 
source of flying voters. Certainly, the registration officers have no way of knowing 
whether the registrant is a legitimate resident or not of the dwelling unit he declared as 
his residence or they will not even bother to do some verification even if in doubt. The 
imposition of harsh penalties on flying voters has not been proven to be an effective tool 
in deterring the commission of this election offense. It is now high time to introduce a 
new method that will prevent the commission of the offense for indeed, "an ounce of 
prevention is better than a pound of cure."
n
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
S E N A T E  
S.B.No. 3087
r -f.
V 
«.f 
r f 's r y
•16 JAN 18 P/, :35
.I.C K IV .;!) 1 1 Y : _ __
Introduced by Senator Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III
AN ACT
AMENDING CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF REPUBLIC ACT NO.
10368 ENTITLED, “AN ACT PROVIDING FOR REPARATION 
AND RECOGNITION OF VICTIMS OF HUMAN RIGHTS 
VIOLATIONS DURING THE MARCOS REGIME, 
DOCUMENTATION OF SAID VIOLATIONS, APPROPRIATING 
FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Since the enactment of Republic Act No. 10368 on February 25, 
2013, various challenges have emerged in its implementation, owing to 
developments that were not foreseen at that time. One of them is the big 
number of claimants that have applied for recognition and reparation 
with the Human Rights Victims’ Claims Board (HRVCB).
The HRVCB, one of the two implementing bodies created by the 
law and constituted in February 2014, has received 75,730 applications 
for reparation and/or recognition, as of the deadline of filing applications 
on May 30, 2015. As of November 30, 2015, the HRVCB has submitted 
11,071 claims for deliberation out of 75,730 applications that were 
received. Crucial in the claims process of the HRVCB is the “evaluation, 
investigation and adjudication” of the remaining 64,659 pending 
applications. It must be noted that when the law was crafted. Congress 
only approximated the number of applications at 20,000, therefore, there 
is a 378.65% variance between the actual applications received and the 
Congress’ projection. Under the law, the HRVCB’s work period ends on 
May 12, 2016, and with its present complement of personnel and 
available resources, it is almost impossible for it to finish adjudicating