SESSION NO. 74 SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS SECOND REGULAR SESSION

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
P asay C ity
Journal
SESSION NO. 74
Wednesday, May 16, 2018
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS
SECOND REGULAR SESSION

SESSION NO. 74
Wednesday, May 16, 2018
CALL TO ORDER
At 3:21 p.m., the Senate President, Hon. Aquilino
“Koko” Pimentel 111, called the session to order.
PRAYER
Sen. Risa Hontiveros led the prayer, to wit:
Mahal na Panginoon, napakaraming
bumabagabag sa anting mga kalooban
bilang isang sambayanan, bilang isang
indibiduwal, sa pagsimula muli ng anting
sesyon ngayong linggo na kailangan naming
hingian ng karunungan mula sa Inyo.
Nandoon ang pantbihirang kagana-
pan sa isang hiwalay at kapantay tta sangay
ng pamahalaan na ipinangangamba ng
marami kung ano ang impUkasyon noon
sa aming mga institusyon at kultura ng
demokrasya.
Nandoon ang biglang pagkamatay ng
isang pinakantamahal na ama ng aming
ntiitantahal na kasanta na si Sonny Angara,
mahal na kaibigan ng ilan sa amin,
iginagalang na kasanta naming lahat sa
Itanay ng mga mambabatas, at marami
pang ibang panganib at sugat.
Sa gitna ng mga laban at pagkaidi-
lang ito, ipinapatuilangin namin ang Prayer
of Saint Francis na inawit sa necrological
service ni dating Senate President Edgardo
Angara.
Lord make me an instrument ofyour peace
Where there is hatred let me sow love
Where there is injury, pardon
Where there is doubt, faith
Where there is despair, hope
Where there is darkness, light
And where there is sadness, Joy
O Divine Master, grant that I may not so
much seek to be consoled as to console,
to be understood as to understand
To be loved as to love
For it is in giving that we receive
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned
And it is in dying that we are bom
to eternal life.
Amen.
ROLL CALL
Upon direction of the Senate President, the
Secretary of the Senate, Atty. Lutgardo B. Barbo,
called the roll, to which the following senators
responded:

1944 WEDNESDAY, M AY 16, 2018
Aquino, P. B. IV B.
Binay, M. L. N. S.
Drilon, F. M.
Ejercito, J. V. G.
Escudero, F. J. G.
Gatchalian, W.
Gordon, R. J.
Honasan, G. B.
Hontiveros, R.
Lacson, P. M.
Legarda, L.
Pacquiao, E. M. D.
Pangilinan, F. N.
Pimentel III, A. K.
Recto, R. G.
Sotto ni, V. C.
Villanueva, J.
Viliar, C. A.
Zubiri, J. M. F.
With 19 senators present, the Chair declared the
presence of a quorum.
Senator Angara was on bereavement leave.
Senator Trillanes arrived after the roll call.
Senator De Lima was unable to attend the
session as she was under detention.
Senator Poe was absent.
APPROVAL OF THE JOURNAL
Upon motion of Senator Sotto, there being no
objection, the Body dispensed with the reading of the
Journals of Session No. 29 (October 4, 5, 6, 9, 10 and
11,2017); Session No. 71 (March 20, 2018); Session
No. 72 (March 21, 2018); and Session No. 73 (May
15, 2018) and considered them approved.
ACKNOWLEDGMENT
OF THE PRESENCE OF GUESTS
At this juncture. Senator Sotto acknowledged the
presence in the gallery of the following guests:
• English Language Studies students from the
University of Santo Tomas headed by Asst.
Prof. Emil Sarmago and Asst. Prof. Michelle
Desierto; and
• Mayor Sally Lee of Sorsogon City, Sorsogon.
Senate President Pimentel welcomed the guests
to the Senate.
APPROVAL OF SENATE BILL NO. 1527
ON THIRD READING
objection, the Body considered, on Third Reading,
Senate Bill No. 1527, printed copies of which were
distributed to the senators on March 22, 2018.
Pursuant to Section 67, Rule XXIIl of the Rules
of the Senate, upon motion of Senator Sotto, there
being no objection. Secretary Barbo read only the
title of the bill, to wit:
AN ACT RECOGNIZING THE BRITISH
SCHOOL MANILA AS AN EDUCA
TIONAL INSTITUTION OF INTER
NATIONAL CHARACTER, GRANT
ING CERTAIN PREROGATIVES
CONDUCIVE TO ITS DEVELOP
MENT AS SUCH, AND FOR OTHER
PURPOSES.
Secretary Barbo called the roll for nominal voting.
RESULT OF THE VOTING
The result of the voting was as follows:
In favor
Aquino Lacson
Binay Legarda
Drilon Pacquiao
Ejercito Pangilinan
Escudero Pimentel
Gatchalian Recto
Gordon Sotto
Honasan Villanueva
Hontiveros Zubiri
Against
None
Abstention
None
With 18 senators voting in favor, none against,
and no abstention, the Chair declared Senate Bill
No. 1527 approved on Third Reading.
ON THIRD READING
objection, the Body considered, on Third Reading,
Senate Bill No. 1532, printed copies of which were
distributed to the senators on March 22, 2018.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 16, 2018 1945
Pursuant to Section 67, Rule XXIII of the Rules
of the Senate, upon motion of Senator Sotto, there
being no objection. Secretary Barbo read only the
title of the bill, to wit;
AN ACT PROVIDING BENEFITS AND
PROGRAMS TO STRENGTHEN,
PROMOTE, AND DEVELOP THE
PHILIPPINE STARTUP ECO
SYSTEM.
Secretary Barbo called the roll for nominal voting.
RESULT OF THE VOTING
The result of the voting was as follows:
In favor
Aquino Lacson
Binay Legarda
Drilon Pacquiao
Ejercito Pangilinan
Escudero Pimentel
Gatchalian Recto
Gordon Sotto
Honasan Villanueva
Hontiveros Zubiri
Against
None
Abstention
None
With 18 senators voting in favor, none against,
and no abstention, the Chair declared Senate Bill
No. 1532 approved on Third Reading.
REFERENCE OF BUSINESS
The Secretary of the Senate/the Deputy Secretary
for Legislation, Atty. Edwin B. Bellen, read the follow
ing matters and the Chair made the corresponding
referrals:
BILLS ON FIRST READING
Senate Bill No. 1764, entitled
AN ACT ESTABLISHING A PHILIPPINE
SOVEREIGN WEALTH FUND, PRO
VIDING FOR THE MANAGEMENT,
INVESTMENT, AND USE OF PRO
CEEDS OF ITS ASSETS, APPRO
PRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR, AND
OTHER PURPOSES
Introduced by Senator Joseph Victor Ejercito
To the Committees on Economic Affairs;
Government Corporations and Public Enter
prises; Ways and Means; and F'inance
AN ACT INCREASING THE MONTHLY
PENSION OF SENIOR VETERANS
Introduced by Senator Honasan II
To the Committees on National Defense
and Security; and Finance
AN ACT CHANGING THE NAME OF
LUPON SCHOOL OF FISHERIES IN
LUPON, DAVAO ORIENTAL TO THE
DAVAO ORIENTAL POLYTECHNIC
INSTITUTE
Introduced by Senator Joel Villanueva
To the Committee on Rules
AN ACT INCREASING THE BED CAPA
CITY OF GOVERNOR CELESTINO
GALLARES MEMORIAL HOSPITAL
(GCGMH) IN TAGBILARAN CITY,
PROVINCE OF BOHOL FROM TWO
HUNDRED TWENTY-FIVE (225) TO
FIVE HUNDRED TWENTY-FIVE
(525) BEDS AND UPGRADING ITS
SERVICES AND FACILITIES, AMEND
ING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC
ACT NO. 7266, AND APPROPRIAT
ING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR
OTHER PURPOSES
r

1946 WEDNESDAY, M AY 16, 2018
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Committee Report No. 334, submitted by the
Committee on Local Government, on House
Bill No. 5259, introduced by Representatives
Baguilat and Primicias-Agabas, entitled
AN ACT DECLARING JUNE 18 OF EVERY
YEAR A SPECIAL NONWORKING
HOLIDAY IN THE PROVINCE OF
IFUGAO, IN COMMEMORATION OF
ITS FOUNDING ANNIVERSARY, TO
BE KNOWN AS THE IFUGAO
FOUNDATION DAY,
recommending its approval without amendment.
Sponsor: Senator Sonny Angara
To the Calendar for Ordinary Business
Bill No. 5260, introduced by Representative
Alonte, et al., entitled
AN ACT DECLARING FEBRUARY 3 OF
EVERY YEAR A SPECIAL NONWORK
ING HOLIDAY IN THE CITY OF
BINAN, PROVINCE OF LAGUNA,
TO BE KNOWN AS BINAN
LIBERATION DAY,
Sponsor; Senator Sonny Angara
Committee on Local Government, on House Bill
No. 5262, introduced by Representative Nava,
et al., entitled
AN ACT DECLARING MAY 22 OF
ING HOLIDAY IN THE PROVINCE
OF GUIMARAS IN COMMEMORA
TION OF ITS ANNIVERSARY AS A
PROVINCE,
No. 5551, introduced by Representative Salceda,
et al., entitled
AN ACT DECLARING SEPTEMBER 2 OF
ING HOLIDAY IN THE PROVINCE OF
ALBAY, INCLUDING THE CITIES
THEREIN, IN COMMEMORATION
OF THE BIRTH ANNIVERSARY OF
GENERAL SIMEON A. OLA, TO BE
KNOWN AS SIMEON OLA DAY,
No. 5552, introduced by Representative Salceda,
et al., entitled
AN ACT DECLARING APRIL 3 OF EVERY
ALBAY, INCLUDING THE CITIES
THEREIN, IN COMMEMORATION
OF ITS FOUNDING ANNIVERSARY,
TO BE KNOWN AS ALBAY DAY,
No. 5553, introduced by Representatives
Baguilat and Primicias-Agabas, entitled
AN ACT DECLARING SEPTEMBER 2
OF EVERY YEAR A SPECIAL NON
WORKING HOLIDAY IN THE
PROVINCE OF IFUGAO, IN COM
MEMORATION OF THE SURREN-

DER OF GENERAL TOMOYUKI
YAMASHITA, COMMANDER OF
THE JAPANESE IMPERIAL ARMY
IN THE PHILIPPINES, IN KIANGAN,
IFUGAO,
Bag-ao and Primicias-Agabas, entitled
AN ACT DECLARING DECEMBER 9
OF EVERY YEAR A SPECIAL
PROVINCE OF DINAGAT ISLANDS
IN COMMEMORATION OF THE
BIRTH ANNIVERSARY OF RUBEN
EDERA ECLEO, SR.,
Gonzales and Primicias-Agabas, entitled
PAMPANGA AND ANGELES CITY
TO BE KNOWN AS THE MT.
PINATUBO MEMORIAL DAY,
No. 5562, introduced by Representative Bataoil,
et al., entitled
PANGASINAN, IN COMMEMORA
TION OF ITS FOUNDING ANNIVER
SARY, TO BE KNOWN AS THE
PANGASINAN DAY,
No. 5563, introduced by Representative Roman,
et al., entitled
HOLIDAY IN THE MUNICIPALITY
OF ORAM, PROVINCE OF BATAAN,
IN COMMEMORATION OF ITS
FOUNDING ANNIVERSARY, TO BE
KNOWN AS ORANI FOUNDATION
DAY,
Vergara and Primicias-Agabas, entitled
AN ACT DECLARING FEBRUARY 3
WORKING HOLIDAY IN THE CITY
OF CABANATUAN, PROVINCE OF
NUEVA ECIJA, IN COMMEMORA
SARY,
r

1948 WEDNESDAY, MAY 16, 2018
No. 5565, introduced by Representative Acosta,
et ai, entitled
AN ACT DECLARING JANUARY 24
NONWORKING HOLIDAY IN THE
PROVINCE OF PALAWAN AND
THE CITY OF PUERTO PRINCESA
IN HONOR OF THE MARTYRDOM
OF GOVERNOR HIGINIO ACOSTA
MENDOZA, SR., TO BE KNOWN AS
GOVERNOR HIGINIO ACOSTA
MENDOZA, SR. DAY,
Almonte, et ai, entitled
AN ACT DECLARING NOVEMBER 2
WORKING HOLIDAY IN THE PRO
VINCE OF MISAMIS OCCIDENTAL,
FOUNDING ANNIVERSARY, TO BE
KNOWN AS ARAW NG MISAMIS
OCCIDENTAL,
Bill No. 5638, introduced by Representatives
Sarmiento and Primicias-Agabas, entitled
MUNICIPALITY OF SANTA
MARGARITA, PROVINCE OF
SAMAR, IN COMMEMORATION OF
ITS FOUNDING ANNIVERSARY,
TO BE KNOWN AS THE SANTA
MARGARITA FOUNDATION DAY,
Committee on Local Govermnent, on House Bill
Sarmiento and Primicias-Agabas, entitled
AN ACT DECLARING OCTOBER 16 OF
EVERY YEAR A SPECIAL NON
OF CALBAYOG, PROVINCE OF
SAMAR, IN COMMEMORATION OF
ITS CHARTER DAY ANNIVER
SARY, TO BE KNOWN AS THE
CALBAYOG CITY CHARTER DAY,
No. 5640, introduced by Representatives Go
and Primicias-Agabas, entitled
CITY OF BAGUIO, PROVINCE OF
BENGUET, IN COMMEMORATION
OF THE SURRENDER OF THE
JAPANESE MILITARY FORCES
LED BY GENERAL TOMOYUKI
YAMASHITA IN BAGUIO CITY,

No. 5641, introduced by Representative Bolilia,
et al., entitled
AN ACT DECLARING DECEMBER 1
MUNICIPALITY OF PADRE GARCIA,
PROVINCE OF BATANGAS, IN
COMMEMORATION OF ITS FOUND
ING ANNIVERSARY AND THE
ANNUAL KABAKAHAN FESTIVAL,
Sponsor: Senator Soimy Angara
Sy-Alvarado, et ai, entitled
VINCE OF BULACAN IN COMMEMO
RATION OF THE INAUGURATION OF
THE PHILIPPINE REPUBLIC,
No. 5688, introduced by Representatives Del
Mar and Primicias-Agabas, entitled
AN ACT DECLARING SEPTEMBER 21 OF
EVERY YEAR A SPECIAL WORKING
HOLIDAY IN THE CITY OF CEBU
AND THE ENTIRE PROVINCE OF
CEBU, INCLUDING ITS HIGHLY
URBANIZED AND COMPONENT
CITIES, TO BE KNOWN AS CEBU
PRESS FREEDOM DAY,
No. 5689, introduced by Representatives Fortun
AN ACT DECLARING AUGUST 2 OF
OF BUTUAN, PROVINCE OF AGUSAN
DEL NORTE, IN COMMEMORATION
OF ITS CHARTER DAY ANNIVER
SARY, TO BE KNOWN AS ADLAW
HONG BUTUAN,
No. 5690, introduced by Representative Ortega
(P.), et a i, entitled
AN ACT DECLARING MARCH 2 OF
VINCE OF LA UNION IN COM
MEMORATION OF ITS FOUNDING
ANNIVERSARY, TO BE KNOWN AS
LA UNION DAY,
Ramirez-Sato and Primicias-Agabas, entitled
VINCE OF OCCIDENTAL MINDORO
FOUNDING ANNIVERSARY,
r

1950 WEDNESDAY, MAY 16,2018
No. 6084, introduced by Representatives Tiangco
OF NAVOTAS IN COMMEMORA
SARY,
No. 6160, introduced by Representatives Abaya
CITY OF CAVITE, PROVINCE OF
CAVITE, IN COMMEMORATION OF
ITS FOUNDING ANNIVERSARY,
No. 6161, introduced by Representative Duavit,
et al., entitled
AN ACT DECLARING JANUARY 21 OF
MUNICIPALITY OF RODRIGUEZ,
PROVINCE OF RIZAL, IN COM
MEMORATION OF THE BIRTH
ANNIVERSARY OF THE HONOR
ABLE EULOGIO “AMANG” ADONA
RODRIGUEZ, SR.,
No. 6239, introduced by Representative Gomez,
et al., entitled
CITY OF ORMOC, PROVINCE OF
LEYTE, TO BE KNOWN AS ORMOC
FLASH FLOOD MEMORIAL DAY,
No. 6178, introduced by Representative Roman,
et al., entitled
AN ACT DECLARING JANUARY 11 OF
PROVINCE OF BATAAN IN COM
MEMORATION OF ITS FOUNDING
ANNIVERSARY TO BE KNOWN AS
BATAAN FOUNDATION DAY,
No. 6418, introduced by Representative
Sarmiento (C.), et al., entitled
AN ACT DECLARING OCTOBER 26 OF
ING HOLIDAY IN THE PROVINCE
OF CATANDUANES TO BE KNOWN
AS THE FOUNDATION DAY OF
CATANDUANES,
r

WEDNESDAY, MAY 16,2018 1951
No. 6592, introduced by Representative Palma,
et al., entitled
AN ACT DECLARING FEBRUARY 24
PROVINCE OF ZAMBOANGA
SIBUGAY IN COMMEMORATION
OF ITS FOUNDING ANNIVERSARY,
TO BE KNOWN AS ARAW NG
SIBUGAY,
Relampagos and Primicias-Agabas, entitled
AN ACT DECLARING JULY 4 OF EVERY
HOLIDAY IN THE ENTIRE PRO
VINCE OF BOHOL, TO BE KNOWN
AS ‘FRANCISCO DAGOHOY DAY’ IN
HONOR OF FRANCISCO DAGOHOY,
A NATIVE OF BOHOL AND LEADER
OF THE LONGEST PHILIPPINE
REVOLT ON RECORD THAT LASTED
FOR EIGHTY-FIVE (85) YEARS
DURING THE SPANISH ERA,
No. 6689, introduced by Representatives Plaza
AGUSAN DEL SUR IN COMMEMO
RATION OF ITS FOUNDING
ANNIVERSARY,
Conunittee on Local Government, on House
Marquez, et al., entitled
AN ACT DECLARING JULY 31 OF EVERY
HOLIDAY IN THE MUNICIPALITY
OF TANGALAN, PROVINCE OF
AKLAN, TO BE KNOWN AS
“TANGALAN DAY” IN COMMEMO
RATION OF ITS CREATION AS A
SEPARATE MUNICIPALITY FROM
THE MUNICIPALITY OF MAKATO,
AND IN HONOR OF THE BRAVERY
OF THE HOMETOWN HEROES OF
BARANGAY VIVO WHO REVOLTED
AGAINST THE SPANIARDS,
To the Calendar for O rdinary Business
Gasataya, et al., entitled
AN ACT DECLARING JUNE 18 OF
ING HOLIDAY IN THE CITY OF
BACOLOD, PROVINCE OF NEGROS
OCCIDENTAL, TO BE KNOWN AS
THE “‘BACOLOD CITY CHARTER
DAY,” IN COMMEMORATION OF
THE DAY PRESIDENT MANUEL L.
QUEZON SIGNED AND APPROVED
INTO EFFECT COMMONWEALTH

ACT NO. 326, CREATING THE CITY
OF BACOLOD,
Committee Report No. 367, prepared and submitted
jointly by the Committees on Electoral Reforms
and People’s Participation; and Constitutional
Amendments and Revision of Codes, on Senate
Bill No. 1765, with Senators Lacson, Drilon,
Ejercito, Poe, Legarda, Aquino fV, De Lima and
Pangilinan as authors thereof, entitled
AN ACT DEFINING AND PROHIBITING
POLITICAL DYNASTIES, PROVID
ING PENALTIES THEREFOR, AND
FOR OTHER PURPOSES,
recommending its approval in substitution of
Senate Bill Nos. 49, 230, 897, 1137, 1258 and
1688.
Sponsor: Senator Pangilinan
Committees on Accountability of Public Officers
and Investigations; Health and Demography;
and Finance re:
Privilege Speech of Senator Richard J.
Gordon delivered on October 11, 2016
on THE ALLEGED P3.5 BILLION
WORTH OF QUESTIONABLE
DENGUE VACCINES THAT HAD
BEEN ADMINISTERED BY THE
DOH TO 280,000 STUDENTS
WITHOUT PASSING THROUGH
WHO PREQUALIFICATION
REQUIREMENTS; and
Proposed Senate Resolution Nos. 557 & 563
(both on the Dengue Vaccination
Program of the Department of Health)
by Senators Joseph Victor G. Ejercito
and Grace Poe, respectively,
recommending its approval.
Sponsor: Senator Richard J. Gordon
Dissenting: Dissenting Vote by Senator Drilon
and Dissenting Report filed by Senator
Leila M. de Lima on 30 April 2018
Senators Trillanes IV, Hontiveros, Pangilinan
and Aquino IV joined the Dissent of
Senator Drilon
PARLIAMENTARY INQUIRY/MOTION
OF SENATOR LACSON
As a background. Senator Lacson narrated that
last April 20, 3018, Committee Report No. 368 on the
dengvaxia investigation was filed by the Blue Ribbon
Committee, jointly with the Committee on Health
and Demography and the Committee and Finance.
He stated that on its face, the report was signed by
14 out of the 22 members of the three committees.
However, he said that upon perusal of the report,
particularly the signature page and its attachments,
he noticed that some members of the three committees
signed the report with concurring and dissenting votes,
some senators signed with reservations. Senators Drilon
and De Lima, joined by their colleagues in the Minority,
filed their separate dissenting opinions, while others,
including him, did not sign.
Senator Lacson stated that he had a couple of
issues to raise for the Committee on Rules to resolve,
one of which, he said, is the issue on the number of
signatures needed in support of the report for it to be
filed with the Bills and Index Division and be
considered for floor deliberation. Relative thereto, he
asked whether those signing with concurring and
dissenting opinions, as well as those with reservations,
are counted in determining the majority.
Senator Lacson also asked whether, in cases
where several committees are conducting inquiry in
aid of legislation involving certain issues, assuming
that the primary committee prepares the report, the
majority requirement for purposes of filing and
consideration by the Senate is determined on a per
eommittee basis or all the members of the different
committees lumped together.
To illustrate, he said that for the Blue Ribbon
Committee consisting of 20 members with one vacancy
left by former Senator Cayetano, it appeared that

seven members signed and concurred in the report,
namely, Senators Gordon, Ejercito, Honasan, Pacquiao,
Zubiri, Sotto and Villar; two signed with reservations;
four signed with concurring and dissenting votes; and
one dissenting vote joined by his colleagues in the
Minority. For the Committee on Health and Demo
graphy with 14 members, he said that it appeared that
five members signed and concurred in the report;
four signed with concurring and dissenting votes;
two dissenting votes; and three did not sign. Mean
while, in the Committee on Finance, he said that
with 20 members, it appeared that seven members
signed and concurred in the report; two signed with
reservations; four signed with concurring and dissenting
votes, and so on.
CHANGE OF REFERRAL
objection, the Body approved the change of referral
of House Bill No. 7007, entitled “An Act Converting
the Davao Oriental State College of Science and
Technology in the City of Mati and All Its Satellite
Campuses Located in the Province of Davao Oriental
into a State University to be Known as the Davao
Oriental State University, and Appropriating Funds
Therefor.” from the Committee on Rules to the
Committee on Education, Arts and Culture.
ADOPTION OF HOUSE BILL NO. 7007 AS
AMENDMENT TO SENATE BILL NO. 1617
In this regard. Senator Lacson read the relevant
portion of Section 22 of Resolution No. 5, otherwise
known as the “Rules of Procedure Governing Inquiries
in Aid of Legislation,” adopted by the Senate on
August 9, 2010, and which was published on August
19, 2016, to wit:
“SEC. 22. Report of Committee. -
X X X X
The Report shall be approved by a majority
vote of all its members. Concurring and
dissenting reports may likewise be made by the
members who do not sign the majority report
within seventy-two (72) hours from the approval
of the report. The number of members who sign
reports concurring in the conclusions of the
Committee Report shall be taken into account in
determining whether the Report has been approved
by a majority of the members. Provided, That the
vote of a member who submits both a concurring
and dissenting opinion shall not be considered
as part of the majority unless he expressly
indicates his vote for the majority position.”
Senator Lacson then asked whether the required
majority was obtained to consider Committee Report
No. 368.
Saying that his inquiry does not need an imme
diate response, he moved that Committee Report
No. 368 be referred in the meantime to the Committee
on Rules for discussion and resolution.
Acting on the motion of Senator Lacson, with
Senator Sotto concurring, there being no objection,
the Chair referred Committee Report No. 368 to the
Committee on Rules.
Saying that the education committee had already
considered a counterpart bill. Senate Bill No. 1617,
upon motion of Senator Escudero, there being no
objection, the Body adopted House Bill No. 7007 as
an amendment to Senate Bill No. 1617.
COMMITTEE REPORT NO. 255
ON SENATE BILL NO. 1717
(Continuation)
objection, the Body resumed consideration, on Second
Reading, of Senate Bill No. 1717 (Committee Report
No. 255), entitled
AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE BASIC
LAW FOR THE BANGSAMORO AND
ABOLISHING THE AUTONOMOUS
REGION IN MUSLIM MINDANAO,
REPEALING FOR THE PURPOSE
REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9054, ENTITLED
AN ACT TO STRENGTHEN AND
EXPAND THE ORGANIC ACT FOR
THE AUTONOMOUS REGION IN
MUSLIM MINDANAO, AND REPUBUC
ACT NO. 6734, ENTITLED AN ACT
PROVIDING FOR AN ORGANIC
ACT FOR THE AUTONOMOUS
REGION IN MUSLIM MINDANAO,
AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
Senator Sotto stated that the parliamentary status
was still the period of interpellations.
Thereupon, the Chair recognized Senator Zubiri,
sponsor of the measure. ^

IN IEKPELLATION
OE SENATOR DRIEON
At the outset, Senator Drilon slated that it has
been the practice and tradition in the Senate that the
Minority Leader is usually the last to interpellate;
however, as a show of cooperation with the Majority
and that he had no intention to delay the consideration
of the measure, he agreed on the request of the
Senate President and the Majority Leader to proceed
with his interpellation.
Senator Drilon commended Senator Zubiri for his
efforts of putting together a committee report on the
Bangsamoro Basic Law, very complicated piece of
legislation, and he recalled the previous versions of
the measure starting with the Memorandum of Agree
ment on Ancestral Domain (MOA-AD) that was
declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court and
even the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsa
moro (CAB) that never saw the light of day due the
many questions raised in the committee report during
the last Congress.
Accordingly, he said that his availment of the
period of interpellations to raise questions and suggest
amendments thereto was for purposes of clarifying
certain provisions in the hope of cleansing the bill of
unconstitutional provisions so that it would not suffer
the same fate as the MOA-AD.
Senator Zubiri thanked Senators Drilon,
Hontiveros, Aquino and Sotto for spearheading the
bill in the previous Congress notwithstanding the
many incidents and obstacles which occurred along
the way, as well as the Minority bloc’s bipartisan
support to the bill.
Asked by Senator Drilon if the passage of the
Bangsamoro Basic Law would entirely repeal
Republic Act No. 9054 and Republic Act No. 6734,
as, in fact, expressly stated in the title and the
repealing clause under Article XVII, Section 2 thereof.
Senator Zubiri replied in the affirmative.
Senator Drilon stated that Article XVII,
Section 6 and Article XII, Sections 6 and 17 provide
that the powers, duties and rights vested by law
and exercised by the ARMM are transferred to
the Bangsamoro government. Thereupon, he asked
what powers, duties and rights vested by law would
be transferred by virtue of the repeal, as he pointed
out that under the rules in statutory construction.
specifically on the repeal of a statute, the repeal
could not be cited as the source of power.
In reply. Senator Zubiri said that the Bangsamoro
Transition Commission (BTC) wanted to actually
build on the gains of the ARMM that have been
achieved in the last 20 years. He admitted that once
the laws are repealed, all powers and duties provided
therein could not be basically restated, and he agreed
that at the proper time, he would be amenable to
considering amendments to clarify the said provision.
Senator Drilon stated that at the proper time, he
would propose the deletion of provisions with similar
import found in the proposed measure.
Senator Zubiri clarified that the BTC simply
wanted to incorporate a section that would recognize
and retain the laws passed by the Regional Legislative
Assembly (RLA) unless amended by the new
Bangsamoro Parliament.
But Senator Drilon stressed that those ordinances
would remain as ordinances unless they are in
contravention with the new law which is the BBL,
and as long as they are not inconsistent with the law,
they would remain effective as local ordinances until
repealed by the new Bangsamoro Parliament.
At this juncture. Senate President Pimentel stated
that what Senator Drilon was pointing out was that
they could not just refer to the existing laws and at
the same time cite the powers provided therein when
the new law already expressly repeals them.
Senator Drilon said that the provision in question
was very vague and he feared that the constitutionality
of the proposed law could be questioned because the
basic principle must be that the title must be reflective
of the law so that if the title provides for repeal but
the body of the bill does not say so, it becomes
questionable. Thus, he suggested deleting any provision
which, in substance, would retain the powers, duties
and rights vested by law to be exercised by the ARMM
unless they are reinstated in clear terms. Senator
Zubiri acceded, saying that he was willing to clearly
cite the powers and functions to be transferred to the
new Bangsamoro government.
Referring to Article 1, Sections 1, 2 and 3,
Senator Drilon asked why the proposed measure
was entitled “Bangsamoro Basic Law” when the
Constitutional Commissioners, during the deliberations
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of the 1987 Constitution, referred to it as the Auto
nomous Region of Muslim Mindanao, and why the
tenn “bangsamoro" was being used. In reply. Senator
Zubiri stated that under several agreements signed by
the government including the recent 2014 Comprehensive
Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB), it was the
name agreed upon by various groups that seek peace
agreements with the government, and that ""bangsa
moro" was the name they would want to be identified
with in the new setup of the regional government.
SUSPENSION OF SESSION
Upon motion of Senator Zubiri, the session was
suspended.
It was 4:15 p.m.
RESUMPTION OF SESSION
At 4:17 p.m., the session was resumed.
Asked on the etymology of the word ""bangsa"
which is not a Filipino term according to study.
Senator Zubiri replied that ""bangsa" is a Malay
word which means “nation” or “country,” and that
the word ""bangsamoro" basically means “Moro
land” or “Moro nation.” He said that the word
""bangsamoro" has been adopted by the people of
ARMM for quite a long time.
At this point. Senator Drilon requested that he be
furnished with documentary evidence to attest that
the term ""bangsamoro" has been accepted, since
he was told by a number of Filipinos in Southern
Philippines that they prefer to retain the word “Muslim”
so that there could be an identity that commands
more respect vis-a-vis the Christian majority.
Senator Zubiri pointed out that both Republic Act
No. 9054, which created the ARMM Law, and the
CAB, which is the final agreement signed by the
MNLF and the government peace panel, used the
word ‘"Bangsamoro".
Senator Drilon put on record that the etymology
of the word ""bangsa" was from Sanskrit, which is
the primary liturgical language of Hinduism, pointing
out that they would be adopting a word that is not
even Filipino in nature because “moro” is historically
in reference to the Moors in Spain. Senator Zubiri
pointed out that the Filipino word ""bansa" or nation
came from the word “bangsa.”
Asked to identify the Bangsamoro people and if
they are the same or different from the Muslims,
Senator Zubiri replied that they are the indigenous
peoples, or settlers, of the Bangsamoro. He cited
Article II, Section 1 of the bill, to wit:
Art. II, Sec. 1. Bangsamoro People. - Those
who, at the advent of the Spaniards, were con
sidered natives or original inhabitants of Mindanao
and the Sulu archipelago and its adjacent islands
including Palawan, and their descendants,
whether of mixed or of full blood, shall have the
right to identify themselves as Bangsamoro by
ascription or self-ascription. Spou.ses and their
descendants are cla.ssified as Bangsamoro.
He explained that “Bangsamoro” would refer to all
inhabitants of the area, including Christians, other
sects and indigenous people who, as stipulated in
Article II, Section 2, have the freedom to choose to
be a Bangsamoro or not. However, Senator Drilon
pointed out that since “Bangsamoro” is a description
of the race, being a Bangsamoro would not be a
matter of choice. He explained that by definition, one
who is native or original inhabitant in Mindanao and
Sulu archipelago and adjacent islands, including
Palawan, shall have the right to identify themselves
as Bangsamoro by self-ascription.
For his part. Senator Zubiri said that Bangsamoro
is a mix of race, religion and historical attribute. He
clarified that even though people commonly identify
Bangsamoro with Muslims, it is actually an aggrupa-
tion of people in a particular geographic area, namely,
the five provinces of the ARMM and possibly the
expanded area after the plebiscite. He explained that
Section 2 was included to respect the other indigenous
peoples and Christians because Bangsamoro has a
connotation on religion. He believed that the people
should have the freedom of choice to be identified
either as a Bangsamoro, Christian or IP settler of the
Bangsamoro area.
Asked whether “freedom of choice” offers
flexibility. Senator Zubiri explained that the choice is
either by self-ascription or ascription, as recognized
under international and domestic laws defining
indigenous peoples. Thus, he stated that if a person
does not want to be identified as a Bangsamoro but
resides in the Bangsamoro area, they should be
respected under the charter.
Senator Drilon recalled that the Supreme Court
had previously raised the issue on freedom of choice
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in its decision in the case of North Cotabato involv
ing the Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral
Domain (MOA-AD). Senator Zubiri explained that
the provision was included in consideration of
other indigenous peoples residing in the Bangsamoro
area, like the Tedurays, who do not want to be
identified as Bangsamoro.
Asked if the BBL would still be applicable
to people who do not want to be identified as
Bangsamoro, Senator Zubiri answered in the
affirmative, as he clarified that the provision pertains
to identity only, but the territory remains; thus,
they will be under the jurisdiction of the BBL. He
explained the provision was crafted in consideration
of the indigenous peoples who have requested not
to be lumped with the Bangsamoro people because
in terms of religion and culture, they are different
although they reside in the Bangsamoro area.
Senator Drilon stated that the request, although
fair, raised more questions and confusion, as he
asked whether the lumads and other indigenous
peoples in the territory are considered Bangsamoro
people since the bill being crafted is called the
“Bangsamoro Basic Law.”
Senator Zubiri stated that the Bangsamoro
Autonomous Region, once established, would be
composed of its people, it would have its identity,
government and territory, but the identity as
Bangsamoro cannot be imposed on the people.
He reiterated that Bangsamoro, as a name and in
totality, includes the government, as well as the
identity, culture and the people. He clarified that the
provision on freedom of choice aims to allow the
inhabitants to live within the territory but not
necessarily be identified as a Bangsamoro. As an
example, he said that if an Ilocano lives in Iloilo
and follows the rules and regulations of the city,
he is still an Ilocano, not an llonggo, but he remains
a Filipino. Senator Drilon agreed, but that there is no
llonggo Basic Law, he pointed out.
At this Juncture, Senate President Pimentel
pointed out that the section is not about citizenship
but about the identification as Bangsamoro since
there can be Bangsamoro people and non-Bangsamoro
people in the region.
Asked by Senator Drilon what the consequences
of exercising the freedom of choice as well as the
options available to an individual within the
Bangsamoro territory. Senator Zubiri stated that the
provision only confers identity but not any rights or
privileges like citizenship.
On whether there are Bangsamoro people in
Palawan even though it is not part of the Bangsamoro
territory. Senator Zubiri stated that although Palawan
is not part of the Bangsamoro territory, it is a
historical fact that the province was included in the
Sultanate of Sulu at one point in time.
With that in mind. Senator Drilon suggested that
Palawan be deleted in the provision so that there
would not be any confusion in the minds of the
people in that province; otherwise, Taguig should
also be included since there are also Muslims and
Bangsamoro people in the area. Senator Zubiri pointed
out that the BTC would like to retain it as a historical
reminder that Palawan was once part of the Sultanate
of Sulu even as he clarified that Palawan was not
mentioned as part of the territory or in the plan of
expansion or assimilation.
Senator Drilon stated that in crafting laws, they
define rights and duties, not record history. Since its
inclusion can give rise to rights and obligations,
he proposed that Palawan be deleted since it is not
really part of the Bangsamoro territory. He assured
that the territory would not in any way be diminished,
and the identity of the Bangsamoro would continue
to be as is. He said that the inclusion of Palawan
was admitted to only record a historical fact which
remains true regardless of whether or not it has been
recorded. He noted that it is history itself which
validates the fact.
Senator Drilon said that during the period of
amendments, he would propose the deletion of any
reference to Palawan. Senator Zubiri said that he
would agree to the amendment at the proper time.
He likewise put on record that even the preamble of
the Constitution has the history of the Philippines in
it, including silent references to Sabah as included in
the archipelago.
Senate President Pimentel observed that the
proposal could raise a problem because the same
section mentions Mindanao and not the entire
Mindanao is part of the territory of Bangsamoro. He
said that a similar argument could be made to also
not mention portions of Mindanao that are not part
of the territory. He said that Section 1 of Article II,
needs to be consistent with the historical point of
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view of the Sulu Sultanate that this was once upon
a time part of the Sulu Sultanate and they want to
give the descendants the right to choose and to
identify themselves as Bangsamoro. He cited as an
example a present resident of Palawan who claims
to be descendant of an original inhabitant of Palawan
at the advent of the Spaniards who can now identify
him/herself as Bangsamoro on the basis of Section 1
as written. Thus, this will now have value when the
person transfers residence into a Bangsamoro terri
tory, he said. And because that person is now part of
Bangsamoro, he said that when that person runs for
public office there, he could not occupy the seat for
the non-Moro.
Senator Zubiri expressed hope that Muslims who
moved to Taguig, Baguio and other areas would see
the development in the Bangsamoro areas and would
be enticed to return one day and contribute to the
development of the area.
Senate President Pimentel opined that there
was also practical application in the sense that
someone who identifies him/herself as Bangsamoro
could not possibly be nominated for the sectoral
seat for the non-Moro, to which Senator Zubiri
agreed.
Moving on to another topic. Senator Drilon
said that the preamble of the bill states, “Affirming
our distinct historical identity and birth right to our
ancestral homeland and our right to self-determination,
to chart our political future through a democratic
process that will secure our identity and prosperity
and allow for genuine and meaningful self-governance
as stipulated in the Comprehensive Agreement on
Bangsamoro.”
Asked whether the Comprehensive Agreement
on Bangsamoro (CAB) is part of the law by addition.
Senator Zubiri said that the reference to the CAB in
the BBL does not make it an integral part of the
BBL; however, since the CAB is a peace agreement
signed by the government, it may serve as a guide in
clarifying some of the provisions of the BBL so as to
honor the real intention of the parties. He recalled
from a previous discussion that the CAB is a larger
document than the BBL, which is only a part of the
CAB. He said that the mention of the CAB under
the preamble is but an affirmation that it is the
mother agreement signed in 2014 by the government
and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), the
largest rebel movement in the south.
Senator Drilon said that general statements
such as “the CAB is the mother agreement” would
create a lot of confusion and concern when the
Chamber gets into the nitty-gritty of the debate as
to whether the CAB is part of the BBL or not. He
said that there are, as of his last count, about nine
documents that are considered in the CAB and he
wondered whether the agreements are part of the
BBL or not.
Senator Zubiri said that according to the BTC,
the preamble does not confer any right but was
strictly a reference or vision.
Senator Drilon said that he could leave the
topic with a comfortable understanding that he
would be proposing an amendment in the preamble
which would state that, “nothing in this law shall
be interpreted as incorporating the powers, rights,
relations under the Comprehensive Agreement on
the Bangsamoro”. He said that there are four annexes
to the CAB, including transitional arrangements,
power-sharing, revenue generation, wealth-sharing,
an addendum on Bangsamoro waters, among others,
and there are substantive rights being created,
and to make reference to the CAB could create an
argument that it is part of the BBL. He said that
if the intention was not so, it should be made clear
and so stated in the preamble during the period
of amendments, otherwise, he would be asking
questions on every document attached to the CAB.
Senator Zubiri said that he would be open to
accepting the amendments.
Replying to Senator Drilon’s queries on the view
of the MNLF on the BBL and whether they are
endorsing it. Senator Zubiri said that there are MNLF
members who are members of the BTC.
On whether Professor Nur Misuari has endorsed
the document. Senator Zubiri said that President
Duterte has met with Mr. Misuari twice and gave his
assurance that during the appointment of members
of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA), the
MNLF would be properly represented. He said that
Mr. Misuari, according to the MNLF representative,
wanted to implement not only the CAB but also the
agreements of the 1996 and 1976 Tripoli Agreement,
and most of his concerns were already addressed
through Republic Act No, 9054 then, and now
enhanced by the BBL. He said that the peace panel,
through the OPAPP, has been in constant touch with
MNLF Chairman Nur Misuari.
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1958 WEDNESDAY, M AY 16,2018
Senator Zubiri lamented that the BBL was being
politicized because of the powers to be granted to the
MILF and to a certain extent to the MNLF who are
in the island provinces that are part of the ARMM.
He said that there are politicians undermining the
process, resenting the reforms to be put in place and
the new method of governance.
Senator Zubiri felt that looking at the BBL in its
entirety would show that the measure is an instrument
of peace. He said that during his discussion of the bill
with Senators Drilon and Recto on the fiscal
management side, he would present the DBM figures
and show how the ARMM has historically not
received its fair share of development funds, that its
budget was only about one-fourth of the budgets of
CARAGA, Region X, Region XI, Region IX and
Region XII and yet all the strife, fighting and conflict
are in the small area of ARMM. He expressed
confidence that the BBL would be able to stem the
violent extremism in that side of Mindanao.
Senator Drilon said that he joins Senator Zubiri
in his noble desire to have an agreement which is
acceptable to all, the reason why at the start he asked
if the BBL, in its present form, has the endorsement
and approval of the MNLF. He hoped that at the end
of the day, and after rigorous debates in the Chamber,
the other politicians who are undermining the BBL
would see the light. He said that this was of serious
concern and all the stakeholders are desirous of a
united, unified Bangsamoro government and territory.
But apparently, he noted, the BBL is not acceptable
in its present form and there is no guarantee of
peace and unity in the Bangsamoro area because of
certain elements.
Senator Zubiri said that during the public hearings
held in the area, there was an overwhelming support
from the leaders of Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur,
Tawi-Tawi and Basilan and it was only in Sulu, the
seat of the MNLF, where they encountered some
problems, and they have to convince the MNLF that
the BBL is the best solution to the problems of the
autonomous region. He said that there are MNLF
members, including its Central Committee, who are
fiilly supportive of the BBL.
Senator Drilon expressed hope that after the bill
is passed into law, it could create an environment of
unity among the people of southern Philippines.
Senator Drilon asked Senator Zubiri if he was
familiar with the elements of statehood quoted in the
case of North Cotabato vs. the Government of the
Republic of the Philippines.
suspended.
It was 4:57 p.m.
At 4:57, the session was resumed.
Responding to the query whether he was aware
of the elements of statehood as defined by the
Supreme Court in the case of North Cotabato vs.
the Government of the Republic of the Philippines
which was decided on October 14, 2008, Senator
Zubiri replied that the decision covered four aspects
of statehood, namely, people, territory, government
and sovereignty. But he assured that with the Basic
Bangsamoro Law, the issue of sovereignty was
removed and it was limited to territory, people and
government.
Senator Drilon pointed out that in that aforecited
case, the Supreme Court cited the Montevideo Con
vention, signed in 1933, which defined the elements
of statehood, namely: 1) a permanent population;
2) a defined territory; 3) a government; and 4) the
capacity to enter into relations with other states.
He said that in examining the provisions of the
proposed BBL, the Body must always be guided by
these elements of statehood because to ignore them
would plant and establish the seeds of secession.
Further, Senator Drilon stated that the Catalonia
experience in Spain is a recent and too fresh a
memory to forget and ignore. He urged the Body to
make sure that the Bangsamoro does not fall into the
same situation and that the elements of statehood are
not propagated which could result in secession.
On whether the Bangsamoro people meet the
criterion of a permanent population as an element
of statehood. Senator Zubiri stated that RA 9054
or the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao
Law (ARMM Law) established the territory of the
region as defined through elections and plebiscites.
He said that the ARMM has a permanent population.
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its residents cast their votes, they share the same
rights and privileges of the citizens of the Republic,
and the Constitution allowed the region to have
autonomy just like the Cordillera Autonomous
Region. He assured the Body that the BBL has
safeguards as stated in its Preamble, to wit, “Within
the framework of the Constitution and the national
sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of
the Philippines, and in consonance with the accepted
principles of human rights, liberty, justice, democracy,
and the norms of standards of international law;”
He said that the bill also mentions of the national
government and the Republic within the BBL. Also,
he placed on record that the Bangsamoro region
would not have an embassy, or an envoy and neither
would it have an office such as the Ministry of
Foreign Affairs. He stressed that the bill explicitly
states that foreign relations would remain with the
central government.
Senator Drilon, however, pointed out that under
Article Xll, Section 29 ofthe measure, “the Bangsamoro
Government may enter into economic agreements
and receive benefits and grants derived therefrom as
provided in Section 1, Article V of this Basic Law.”
To the observation that the provision allows the
Bangsamoro Government to enter into economic agree
ments with sovereign states. Senator Zubiri clarified
that the provision speaks of economic and not political
agreements.
Senator Drilon argued that whether it is economic
or political, it is the act of entering into an agreement
which is material.
But Senator Zubiri pointed out that local govern
ment units are allowed to enter into economic
agreements with foreign governments. As examples,
he cited the provincial government of Bukidnon
which has a bilateral agreement with the New
Zealand government for the Bukidnon Forest
Incorporated which is a man-made forest plantation
to protect the biodiversity and watershed in Mount
Kitanglad and Mount Katalungan; and the city
government of Malaybalay which has sister city
agreements with other cities of other countries. He
believed that Article Xll, Section 29 would allow the
Bangsamoro Autonomous Region to enter into
agreements with countries like Malaysia and Indonesia
for assistance and aid. He also mentioned his meeting
with USAID, which signified signifying its intent to
help with the systems programming and plarming for
the new Bangsamoro government.
Senator Drilon then asked Senator Zubiri for an
assurance that, at the appropriate time, he would
consider an amendment to Article IV, Section 1 on
self-governance by inserting the last part of the
sentence the phrase “within the framework of the
Constitution and the national sovereignty and national
territory of the Republic of the Philippines.”
Senator Zubiri assured Senator Drilon that he
would favorably consider the amendment at the
proper time.
At this juncture. Senator Drilon stated that he
would suspend his interpellation in the meantime, as
he gave notice to the Committee that he would
inquire about the asymmetrical and associative
relationship in the next session.
Senator Zubiri thanked Senator Drilon for his
time and for allowing him to expound on the answers
to the queries. He said that Senator Drilon was set
to debate the following week but took the time that
day to interpellate, which the Committee appreciated.
INQUIRIES
OF SENATE PRESIDENT PIMENTEL
Citing Article II, Section 1, Senate President
Pimentel inquired about the identification by ascription
and self-ascription.
suspended.
It was 5:08 p.m.
At 5:10 p.m., the session was resumed.
Senator Zubiri explained that the term “by
ascription” refers to the automatic identity given to a
person, while “by self-ascription," refers to how one
wants to be identified.
On whether a person who wants to be identified
by self-ascription would need to execute a document
identifying his/her identity. Senator Zubiri replied in
the negative. He said that a person’s identity would
be recognized by usage or act. He explained that the
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Bangsamoro people, by ascription, are identified as
Bangsamoro, and whoever wants to be identified as
Bangsamoro would be “by self-ascription.” For
instance, he said that Christians living in Cotabato
City may choose to be called Bangsamoro because
they sympathize with the setup, cause and develop
ment of the Bangsamoro Region. He stated that
he would demonstrate during the interpellation of
Senator Recto how, in times of peace, the GDP of
the Bangsamoro area is high, and in times of conflict
no investments and development come in. He pre
dicted that once the guns are silent and the develop
ment projects are in place, the investors would be
excited to come in, the people who are not members
of ARMM and even Christians alike would be proud
to be called Bangsamoro.
Senate President Pimentel questioned how
Section 2 (Freedom of Choice) would be exer
cised if there is no specific procedure or document
to exercise the choice of being identified as
Bangsamoro.
Senator Zubiri explained that Section 2 was
crafted in consideration of the request of the indi
genous peoples living in the territory who do not want
to be identified or associated with the Bangsamoro
as they do not want to lose their identities. He said
that under the BBL, they are allowed to retain their
identities.
As regards the representation of IPs in the
Bangsamoro Parliament, Senate President Pimentel
noted that the BBL provides two seats for non-Moro
IPs and settler communities, and since the non-Moro
IPs are not Bangsamoro people as stated in Article
II, Section 1, they are the ones who could exercise
and enjoy the provision on the freedom of choice,
and that those who have, by ascription or self
ascription, identified themselves as Bangsamoro would
not be qualified for the two reserved seats for non-
Moro IPs. Senator Zubiri agreed.
On whether the term “non-moro” is the same as
“non-Bangsamoro”, Senator Zubiri replied in the
affirmative.
Upon motion of Senator Sotto, the session was
suspended.
It was 5:18 p.m.
At 6:07 p.m., the session was resumed with
Senate President Pro Tempore Recto presiding.
MANIFESTATION OF SENATOR SOTTO
Senator Sotto informed the Body that Senator
Drilon would continue his interpellation on Senate Bill
No. 1717 on Monday, May 21, 2018, the same day
Senators Recto and Pangilinan were also scheduled
to avail of the period of interpellations.
SUSPENSION OF CONSIDERATION
OF SENATE BILL NO. 1717
objection, the Body suspended consideration of
the bill.
COMMITTEE REPORT NO. 52
ON SENATE BILL NO. 1390
(Continuation)
objection, the Body resumed consideration, on Second
Reading, of Senate Bill No. 1390 (Committee Report
No. 52), entitled
AN ACT STRENGTHENING THE PHILIP
PINE COMPREHENSIVE POLICY
ON HUMAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY
VIRUS (HIV) AND ACQUIRED
IMMUNODEFICIENCY SYNDROME
(AIDS) PREVENTION, TREATMENT,
CARE, AND SUPPORT, AND ESTAB
LISHING THE PHILIPPINE NATIONAL
AIDS COUNCIL (PNAC), REPEAL
ING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC
ACT NO. 8504, OTHERWISE KNOWN
AS THE “PHILIPPINE AIDS PREVEN
TION AND CONTROL ACT OF 1998,”
AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS
THEREFOR.
Senator Sotto stated that the parliamentary status
of the measure was that the period of individual
amendments was already closed and that clean copies
were requested to the distributed to the Body before
its approval on Second Reading. However, he said
that Senator Hontiveros would like to introduce further
individual amendment to the measure.
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REOPENING OF THE PERIOD
OF INDIVIDUAL AMENDMENTS
objection, the Body reopened the period of individual
amendments.
Thereupon, the Chair recognized Senator
Hontiveros to introduce her additional individual
amendment.
HONTIVEROS AMENDMENT
As proposed by Senator Hontiveros, there being
no objection, the Body approved the deletion of
Section 44(b) of the bill.
TERMINATION OF THE PERIOD
OF INDIVIDUAL AMENDMENTS
objection, the Body closed the period of individual
amendments.
ON SECOND READING
Submitted to a vote, there being no objection.
Senate Bill No. 1390 was approved on Second
Reading.
SUSPENSION OF CONSIDERATION
OF SENATE BILL NO. 1390
objection, consideration of Senate Bill No. 1390 was
suspended.
REPORT OF SENATOR SOTTO
As a background. Senator Sotto recalled that on
March 20, 2018, Senator Drilon made a motion for the
Committee on Rules to come up with a ruling or
interpretation of the third paragraph of Section 65 of
Rule XXIII of the Rules of the Senate, which states:
This provision to the contrary notwithstand
ing, when a committee bill is presented with a report,
the reading of the same, together with the title of
the bill, shall be considered as First Reading.
He said that according to Senator Drilon, the provi
sion should be made consistent with Section 26(2) of
Article VI of the Constitution, which provides that:
“No bill passed by either House shall become a law
unless it has passed three readings on separate days,
and printed copies thereof in its final form have been
distributed to its Members three days before it
passage,....”
Senator Sotto stated that Senator Drulon’s request
for the interpretation of Section 65, was apparently
made in light of the committee report sponsored by
Senator Gordon, which deviated from the constitutional
provision requiring bills to undergo three readings. He
said that no less than Senator Gordon, who attached
the original bill as part of the committee’s recom
mendations, concurred and supported the observations
of Senator Drilon that the bill did not go through First
Reading because of the application of Section 65 of
the Rules of the Senate.
Senator Sotto informed the Body that after a
comprehensive study on the issue raised by Senator
Drilon, and in consultation with the concerned
legislative office of the Senate, the Committee on
Rules has come with the following findings:
1) Section 65 of the Rules of the Senate appears to
be vaguely worded that it has been subject to
different interpretations.
He disclosed that the Committee was, in fact,
able to come across a similar precedent during the
14th Congress, specifically in plenary Session
No. 48, dated February 12, 2010, with Senator Zubiri
as the Majority Leader, to wit:
Senator Zubiri. Mr. President, there being
no other amendments, 1 move that we adopt
Committee Report No. 254, the Fertilizer Scam
Investigation, including the recommendations
except on the recommendation to adopt the draft
attached bills which we have already been referred
to other committee for further study and recom
mendations, if it is all right with the sponsor.
Senator Sotto pointed out that the committee
report was coincidentally sponsored by Senator Gordon
who precisely accepted and agreed with Senator
Zubiri’s manifestation.
2) If Section 65 of the Rules of the Senate were
interpreted by considering an attached bill to a
committee report as part of the committee’s
recommendations to be in its First Reading already,
it would run counter to the constitutional require
ment that “a bill should pass three readings.’
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In consideration of the findings of the Committee
on Rules, Senator Sotto moved to amend Section 65
by replacing the third paragraph thereof with the
following:
WHEN A SUBSTITUTEORCONSOLIDATED
BILL IS PRESENTED WITH THE COMMITTEE
REPORT, THE READING OF SAID REPORT,
TOGETHER WITH THE TITLE OF THE
SUBSTITUTE OR CONSOLIDATED BILL,
SHALL BE CONSIDERED AS FIRST READING.
He explained that the idea behind the proposal
is to limit the bills contemplated therein only to
substitute and consolidated bills because they have
already passed the First Reading, thereby complying
with the constitutional requirement of three readings
on separate days. He said that he would not yet
move for the adoption of the proposal until all the
other members of the Senate are apprised of it.
At this juncture. Senator Drilon requested that
Senator Sotto read Seetion 65 of the Rules of the
Senate as well as the proposed amendment.
Senator Sotto read Section 65, to wit:
SEC. 65. For the purpose of this Rule, bills
shall be considered as read:
On First Reading, when they are
read for transmittal to the corresponding
committee.
This provision to the contrary notwith
standing, when a committee bill ispresented
with a report, the reading of the same,
together with the title of the bill shall be
considered as First Reading.”
X X X
X X X
He stated that the proposal was to replace the
third paragraph of Section 65 with the following:
WHEN A SUBSTITUTEORCONSOLIDATED
BILL IS PRESENTED WITH THE COMMITTEE
REPORT, THE READING OF SAID REPORT,
TOGETHER WITH THE TITLE OF THE
SUBSTITUTE OR CONSOLIDATED BILL,
SHALL BE CONSIDERED AS FIRST READING.
He added that the succeeding paragraphs on Second
and Third Readings would remain. Also he indicated
that he would would move for the adoption of the
amendment on Monday, May 21, 2018.
He requested the Secretariat to provide all
the Members of the Body with the a copy of the
proposed amendment.
ADDITIONAL REFERENCE OF BUSINESS
The Secretary of the Senate read the following
matters and the Chair made the corresponding
referrals:
BHXS ON FIRST READING
AN ACT ESTABLISHING THE MEDICAL
ASSISTANCE PROGRAM FOR THE
DENGVAXIA VACCINEES AND
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR
AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES
To the Committees on Health and Demo
graphy; and Finance
AN ACT TO ENHANCE PUBLIC
FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT IN
LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS BY
AMENDING CERTAIN PROVISIONS
IN REPUBLIC ACT 7160, OTHER
WISE KNOWN AS THE LOCAL
GOVERNMENT CODE OF 1991
Introduced by Senator Sonny Angara
To the Committees on Local Government;
and Finance
AN ACT TO ENHANCE THE TAXING
POWERS OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT
UNITS BY AMENDING CERTAIN
PROVISIONS IN BOOK II OF
REPUBLIC ACT 7160, OTHERWISE
KNOWN AS THE LOCAL GOVERN
MENT CODE OF 1991
Ways and Means ^

AN ACT PROVIDING FOR BUSINESS-
FRIENDLY TAX REMEDIES IN
IN BOOK II OF REPUBLIC ACT
7160, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE
LOCAL GOVERNMENT CODE OF
1991
To the Committees on Committees on Local
Government; Ways and Means
AN ACT TO RATIONALIZE CREDIT
FINANCING FOR LOCAL GOVERN
MENT UNITS BY AMENDING
CERTAIN PROVISIONS IN BOOK II
OF REPUBLIC ACT 7160, OTHER
WISE KNOWN AS THE LOCAL
GOVERNMENT CODE OF 1991
To the Committees on Committees on Local
Government; and Banks, Financial Institutions
and Currencies
BY AMENDING CERTAIN PROVI
SIONS IN BOOK II OF REPUBLIC
ACT 7160, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS
THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT CODE
OF 1991
To the Committees on Committees on
Local Government; and Ways and Means
AN ACT INSTITUTIONALIZING
PEOPLE’S PARTICIPATION IN THE
BUDGET PROCESS, APPROPRIAT
ING FUNDS THEREOF, AND FOR
OTHER PURPOSES
Introduced by Senator Grace Poe
To the Committee on Finance
AN ACT AMENDING REPUBLIC ACT
NO. 9006, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS
THE FAIR ELECTION ACT
Introduced by Senator Aquilino “Koko”
Pimentel III
AN ACT TO REDUCE THE COST OF
DOING BUSINESS IN LOCAL
GOVERNMENT UNITS BY AMEND
ING CERTAIN PROVISIONS IN
BOOK II OF REPUBLIC ACT 7160,
OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE
LOCAL GOVERNMENT CODE OF
1991
To the Committees on Committees on
Local Government; and Trade, Commeree and
Entrepreneurship
AN ACT TO SIMPLIFY LOCAL TAXES
TO ENHANCE TAX COMPLIANCE
IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS
To the Committee on Electoral Reforms
and People’s Participation
AN ACT GRANTING PHILIPPINE
CITIZENSHIP TO HANS GUENTER
SCHOOF
Introduced by Senator Aquilino “Koko”
Pimentel 111
AN ACT PROVIDING FOR A THREE
THOUSAND PESO (PHP 3,000)
INCREASE ACROSS THE BOARD
IN THE MONTHLY PENSION OF
WAR VETERANS AND THEIR
DEPENDENTS, APPROPRIATING
r

FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR
OTHER PURPOSES
To the Committees on National Defense
and Security; and Finance
RESOLUTIONS
Proposed Senate Resolution No. 700, entitled
RESOLUTION EXPRESSING THE SENSE
OF THE SENATE TO CALL UPON
THE PRIVATE SECTOR TO HIRE
GRADUATES OF THE REFORMED
K TO 12 BASIC EDUCATION SYSTEM
TO ENABLE FRESH GRADUATES
TO FIND DECENT AND FULFILLING
EMPLOYMENT AND TO ENSURE
THE SUCCESSFUL IMPLEMENTATION
OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 10533,
ENHANCED BASIC EDUCATION
ACT OF 2013
RESOLUTION URGING THE SENATE
COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC
INFORMATION AND MASS MEDIA
TO CONDUCT AN ASSESSMENT,
IN AID OF LEGISLATION, IN THE
EFFORTS TO SCORE ITS FIRST
NOMINATION AND WIN IN THE
PRESTIGIOUS OSCAR AWARDS
AND THE RENAISSANCE OF
PHILIPPINE CINEMA
To the Committee on Public Information
and Mass Media
RESOLUTION URGING THE PRES
IDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES TO
CREATE THE PRESIDENTIAL
OFFICE ON DRUGS AND CRIMES
Introduced by Senator Sotto III
To the Committee on Public Order and
Dangerous Drugs
RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE SENATE
COMMITTEE ON TOURISM TO
CONDUCT AN INQUIRY, IN AID
OF LEGISLATION, ON THE COM
PLIANCE OF ACCOMMODATION
ESTABLISHMENTS SUCH AS
HOTELS, RESORTS, APARTMENT
HOTELS AND RECREATIONAL
AREAS IN PROVIDING ON-SITE
FIRST AID AND EMERGENCY
MEDICAL SERVICES, AND TO
REVIEW THE APPLICABLE GUIDE
LINES AND RULES AND REGULA
TIONS THEREOF, IN ORDER TO
REASSURE TOURISTS AND
GUESTS OF THEIR SAFETY AND
PROTECTION
To the Committee on Tourism
RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE APPRO
PRIATE SENATE COMMITTEES TO
OF LEGISLATION, ON THE INFLA
TIONARY IMPACT AND EFFECT
ON THE ECONOMY OF THE
IMPLEMENTATION OF THE TAX
REFORM FOR ACCELERATION
AND INCLUSION (TRAIN) LAW
Introduced by Senator Paolo Benigno “Bam”
Aquino IV
To the Committees on Ways and Means;
and Economic Affairs
COMMITTEE ON TOURISM AND
OTHER APPROPRIATE SENATE
COMMITTEE/S TO LOOK INTO, IN
AID OF LEGISLATION, THE
r

ADMINISTRATION’S REHABILIT
ATION PLAN ON BORACAY, AND
FURTHER, ASSESS THE READINESS
OF THE DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM
(DOT), DEPARTMENT OF INTERIOR
AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT (DILG),
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
AND HIGHWAYS (DPWH), DEPART
MENT OF TRADE AND INDUSTRY
(DTI), DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL
WELFARE AND DEVELOPMENT
(DSWD), DEPARTMENT OF LABOR
AND EMPLOYMENT (DOLE), AND
OTHER RELATED GOVERNMENT
AGENCIES IN ASSISTING THE
RESIDENTS OF BORACAY, THE
WORKERS, AND THE BUSINESS
ESTABLISHMENTS THAT WILL BE
AFFECTED BY THE IMPENDING
SIX-MONTH CLOSURE OF THE
ISLAND WITH THE END IN VIEW
OF DETERMINING WHETHER THERE
IS A NEED FOR A REMEDIAL
LEGISLATION, AND WHETHER
CLOSING BORACAY ENTIRELY
FOR SIX MONTHS IN THE BEST
APPROACH IN REHABILITATING
THE ISLAND AND IS NOT A
THOUGHTLESS DECISION MADE
ON A WHIM TO FAVOUR CERTAIN
INDIVIDUALS/GROUPS, AND ENSUR
ING THAT THOSE WHO ARE SET
TO BE AFFECTED, IF THIS PUSHES
THROUGH, WILL BE PROVIDED
WITH ADEQUATE ASSISTANCE,
INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO,
LIVELIHOOD, EMPLOYMENT, AND
RELOCATION, IF NEEDED
Introduced by Senator Trillanes IV
To the Committees on Tourism; and Local
Government
SECOND ADDITIONAL
REFERENCE OF BUSINESS
BILLS ON FIRST READING
AN ACT ORDAINING A SYSTEM TO
ENSURE AVAILABLE DOCTORS
AND HEALTH CARE IN UNDER
SERVED AND GEOGRAPHICALLY
DISADVANTAGED AREAS BY
CREATING A MEDICAL SCHOLAR
SHIP AND RETURN SERVICE
PROGRAM FOR DESERVING
STUDENTS, AND APPROPRIATING
FUNDS THEREFOR
graphy; Education, Arts and Culture; and Finance
AN ACT TO ESTABLISH PROGRAMS
IN ASSISTING ELDERLY AND
SENIOR CITIZENS WHO ARE
VICTIMS OF VIOLENCE AND
ABUSE, AND TO PROVIDE
TRAINING MECHANISMS AND
FUNDS THEREFOR
To the Committees on Social Justice, Welfare
and Rural Development; and Finance
AN ACT DESIGNATING THE SECRETARY
OF THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRI
CULTURE AS CHAIRPERSON OF
THE GOVERNING BOARD OF THE
NATIONAL FOOD AUTHORITY
Introduced by Senator Recto
To the Committee on Agriculture and Food
AN ACT DESIGNATING THE SECRE
TARY OF THE DEPARTMENT OF
AGRICULTURE AS CHAIRPERSON
OF THE GOVERNING BOARD OF THE
NATIONAL IRRIGATION ADMINIS
TRATION, AMENDING FOR THE
PURPOSE SECTION 4 OF REPUBLIC
ACT NO. 3601, AS AMENDED
Introduced by Senator Recto
r

To the Committees on Agriculture and
Food; and Public Works
AN ACT STRENGTHENING THE
SYSTEM OF PEOPLE’S INITIATIVE
AND REFERENDUM, AMENDING
FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT
AN ACT PROVIDING FOR A
SYSTEM OF INITIATIVE AND
REFERENDUM AND APPROPRIAT
ING FUNDS THEREFOR
Introduced by Senator Pimentel III
To the Committees on Electoral Reforms
and People’s Participation; and Constitutional
Amendments and Revision of Codes
AN ACT TO STRENGTHEN HUMAN
RIGHTS EDUCATION AND THE
SYSTEM OF LEGAL ASSISTANCE
FOR MIGRANT WORKERS, AMEND
ING FOR THE PURPOSE SECTION
23 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8042,
OTHERWISE KNOWN AS “THE
MIGRANT WORKERS AND
OVERSEAS FILIPINOS ACT OF
1995,” AS AMENDED
Introduced by Senator Leila M. de Lima
To the Committees on Labor, Employment
and Human Resources; and Foreign Relations
AN ACT TO ENHANCE INTER-LGU
COOPERATION BY AMENDING
CERTAIN PROVISIONS IN BOOK I
WISE KNOWN AS “THE LOCAL
GOVERNMENT CODE OF 1991”
To the Committee on Local Government
AN ACT UPDATING THE REQUISITES
FOR THE CREATION OF MUNICI
PALITIES, CITIES, AND PROVINCES
BY AMENDING CERTAIN PROVI
SIONS IN BOOK III OF REPUBLIC
ACT 7160, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS
‘THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT CODE
OF 1991"
AN ACT TO ENHANCE THE SHARE
OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS
IN INTERNAL REVENUE TAXES
and Ways and Means
AN ACT TO ENHANCE THE USE OF
NATIONAL WEALTH FOR LOCAL
DEVELOPMENT BY AMENDING
CERTAIN PROVISIONS IN BOOK II
Introduced by Senator Sormy Angara
AN ACT TO RATIONALIZE THE
FUNCTIONAL ASSIGNMENTS OF
IN REPUBLIC ACT 7160, OTHER
AN ACT STRENGTHENING THE COURT
SYSTEM IN THE PHILIPPINES,

AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE
SECTIONS 4 AND 8 OF REPUBLIC
ACT NO. 6758, OTHERWISE KNOWN
AS THE ‘COMPENSATION AND
POSITION CLASSIFICATION ACT
OF 1989', AS AMENDED, THEREBY
EXEMPTING THE JUDICIARY FROM
SAID LAW
To the Committees on Justice and Human
Rights; Civil Service, Government Reorganiza
tion and Professional Regulation; and Finance
AN ACT MANDATING ALL EMPLOYERS
IN THE PRIVATE AND PUBLIC
SECTORS, INCLUDING ALL GOVERN
MENT OFFICES, AGENCIES AND
INSTRUMENTALITIES, TO PRO
VIDE, FREE OF CHARGE, CLEAN,
HEALTHY, SUFFICIENT AND
ACCESSIBLE DRINKING-WATER
TO ALL ITS EMPLOYEES
and Human Resources Development; and Civil
Service, Government Reorganization and Profes
sional Regulation
AN ACT AMENDING SECTIONS 28, 38
AND 39 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO.
MAGNA CARTA OF PUBLIC
HEALTH WORKERS
graphy; and Finance
AN ACT APPROPRIATING THE SUM
OF ONE BILLION ONE HUNDRED
SIXTYONE MILLION SEVEN
HUNDRED TEN THOUSAND PESOS
(PI, 161,710,000) AS SUPPLEMENTAL
APPROPRIATIONS FOR FY 2018
Introduced by Senator Legarda
AN ACT APPROPRIATING THE SUM
OF ONE BILLION ONE HUNDRED
SIXTY ONE MILLION SEVEN
HUNDRED TEN THOUSAND PESOS
(P1,161,710,000) AS SUPPLEMENTAL
APPROPRIATIONS FOR FY 2018
Introduced by Senator Richard J. Gordon
AN ACT CREATING AN ELECTION
CODE RECODIFICATION COM
MITTEE TO RECODIFY THE
ELECTION LAWS
To the Committees on Electoral Reforms and
People’s Participation; Constitutional Amend
ments and Revision of Codes; and Finance
AN ACT AMENDING SECTIONS 16(A)
AND 16(B) OF REPUBLIC ACT
AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE
ELIMINATION OF THE WORST
FORMS OF CHILD LABOR AND
AFFORDING STRONGER PROTEC
TION FOR THE WORKING CHILD,
AMENDING FOR THIS PURPOSE
REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7610, AS
AMENDED, OTHERWISE KNOWN
AS THE SPECIAL PROTECTION OF
CHILDREN AGAINST CHILD ABUSE,
EXPLOITATION AND DISCRIMINA
TION ACT
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1968 WEDNESDAY, MAY 16. 2018
and Human Resources Development; and
Women, Children, Family Relations and Gender
Equality
RESOLUTIONS
RESOLUTION EXPRESSING THE FULL
SUPPORT OF THE SENATE OF THE
PHILIPPINES FOR THE WORLD
WIDE WALK TO FIGHT POVERTY
SPEARHEADED BY THE FELIX Y.
MANALO FOUNDATION, INC. OF
THE IGLESIA NI CRISTO
RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING AND
COMMENDING THE CONTRIBU
TIONS OF IGLESIA NI CRISTO (INC)
FOUNDER AND FIRST EXECUTIVE
MINISTER FELIX YSAGUN MANALO
COMMITTEE ON URBAN PLANN
ING, HOUSING AND RESETTLE
MENT TO CONDUCT AN INQUIRY,
IN AID OF LEGISLATION, ON THE
ALLEGED IRREGULARITIES ON
RESETTLEMENT AND RELOCATION
PROGRAMS UNDERTAKEN BY
THE GOVERNMENT FOR DISASTER
AFFECTED AREAS, WITH THE END
IN VIEW OF CRAFTING AN ALTER
NATIVE POLICY TO ENSURE
EFFICIENCY, TRANSPARENCY AND
ACCOUNTABILITY IN POST
DISASTER REHABILITATION AND
RECOVERY
To the Committee on Urban Planning,
Housing and Resettlement
COMMITTEE ON HEALTH AND
DEMOGRAPHY TO CONDUCT AN
INQUIRY, IN AID OF LEGISLATION,
ON THE REPORTED SHORTAGE
OF ANTI-RABIES VACCINES, THE
POLICIES, PLANS AND PROGRAMS
TO PREVENT AN OUTBREAK OF
RABIES RELATED DISEASES, AND
TO REVIEW THE IMPLEMENT
ATION OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9482,
ANTIRABIES ACT OF 2007
To the Committee on Health and Demo
graphy
COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENT
AND NATURAL RESOURCES TO
OF LEGISLATION, ON THE REHAB
ILITATION OF BANAUE RICE
TERRACES WITH THE END IN
VIEW OF FORMULATING POLICIES
TO PROMOTE ITS SUSTAINABLE
DEVELOPMENT
To the Committee on Environment and
Natural Resources
COMMITTEE ON BANKS, FINAN
CIAL INSTITUTIONS AND CURREN
CIES TO CONDUCT AN INQUIRY
ON THE ECONOMIC STATUS AND
INVESTMENT IMPACTS OF CRYPTO
CURRENCIES SUCH AS BITCOIN
IN THE LIGHT OF A P900MILLION
PYRAMIDING SCAM THAT WAS
r

UNEARTHED RECENTLY, WITH
THE END IN VIEW OF REDUCING
THE RISKS OF FRAUD, PROMOT
ING FINANCIAL LITERACY ON
DIGITAL CURRENCIES AND
PROTECTING THE PUBLIC
To the Committees on Banks, Financial Insti
tutions and Currencies; and Trade, Commerce
and Entrepreneurship
COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC ORDER
AND ILLEGAL DRUGS TO CONDUCT
AN INQUIRY, IN AID OF LEGIS
LATION, ON THE ALLEGED ILLEGAL
WITHHOLDING OF DAILY SUBSIS
TENCE ALLOWANCE (ASA) AND
EXPLOSIVE ORDINANCE DISPOSAL
HAZARDOUS PAY (EOD HDP)
ALLOTTED TO THE MEMBERS OF
THE SPECIAL ACTION FORCE (SAF)
TROOPERS AMOUNTING TO P59.8
MILLION, WITH THE END IN VIEW,
OF PROPOSING REMEDIAL LEGIS
LATION TO ADDRESS THE SAME
AND PREVENT THE RECURRENCE
OF THE SAME INCIDENT IN THE
FUTURE THAT MAY CAUSE DEMO
RALIZATION AMONG THE RANKS
OF THE PHILIPPINE NATIONAL
POLICE
Introduced by Senator Lacson
To the Committee on Public Order and
Dangerous Drugs
RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE COM
MITTEE ON PUBLIC SERVICES TO
OF LEGISLATION, ON THE OPERA
TION OF TRANSPORT NETWORK
COMPANIES IN THE PHILIPPINES,
PARTICULARLY ON THE ALLEGED
OVERCHARGING OF FEES AND
NONIMPLEMENTATION OF STUDENT
AND PERSONS WITH DISABILITY
DISCOUNTS WITH THE ENDVIEW
OF CRAFTING LEGISLATION
REGULATING TRANSPORTATION
NETWORK VEHICLE SERVICES IN
THE COUNTRY
To the Committee on Public Services
RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND
HONOR-ING THE EIGHT OUTSTAND
ING FILIPINOS WHO BROUGHT
GLORY AND PRESTIGE TO THE
PHILIPPINES BY BEING AWARDEES
OF THE RECENT ASIAN SCIENTIST
100
PRIATE SENATE COMMITTEE TO
CONDUCT AN INVESTIGATION, IN
AID OF LEGISLATION, ON THE
ADMINISTRATION’S ORDER TO
CLOSE OFF BORACAY ISLAND
FOR SIX MONTHS, AND TO
INQUIRE INTO THE GOVERNMENT
MEASURES, IF ANY, TO ADDRESS
THE EFFECTS OF THE CLOSURE
TO THE PHILIPPINE ECONOMY
AND THE FILIPINO PEOPLE
To the Committees on Environment and
Natural Resources; and Local Government
RESOLUTION CALLING ON THE SENATE
TO CONVENE THE CONGRES
SIONAL COMMISSION ON HEALTH
PURSUANT TO REPUBLIC ACT NO.
MAGNA CARTA OF PUBLIC
HEALTH WORKERS ^

To the Committee on Health and Demo
graphy
OF LEGISLATION, ON THE IMPLE
MENTATION OF REPUBLIC ACT
“ASIN LAW” AND ITS EFFECTS ON
HEALTH AND THE LOCAL SALT
INDUSTRY, WITH THE END IN
VIEW OF STRIKING A BALANCE
BETWEEN PROMOTING IODINE
SUFFICIENCY AMONG OUR PEOPLE
AND STRENGTHENING MECHAN
ISMS TO ENHANCE LOCAL SALT
PRODUCTION
graphy; and Trade, Commerce and Entrepre
neurship
RESOLUTION URGING THE GOVERN
MENT TO FULLY SUPPORT THE
LOCAL COCOA INDUSTRY IN
ORDER TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF
THE RISING GLOBAL DEMAND
FOR COCOA BEANS AND RELATED
PRODUCTS, AND IN DOING SO
GENERATE EMPLOYMENT AND
INCOME FOR COCOA FARMERS
AND THEIR FAMILIES, CONTRI
BUTE TO RE-GREENING THE
COUNTRYSIDE, AND PROMOTE
INCLUSIVE GROWTH
COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SERVICES
TO CONDUCT AN INQUIRY, IN AID
OF LEGISLATION, ON THE POLICIES,
PLANS, PENALTY SYSTEM AND
REMEDIAL MEASURES THAT CAN
BE FORMULATED ON THE
INCREASING CASES OF ABUSIVE
DRIVERS IN GRAB PH, TAXIS, AND
OTHER COMMON CARRIERS CON
SIDERING THAT THE PRESENT
RELEVANT STATUTES MANDATE
THAT THEY ARE BOUND TO
OBSERVE EXTRAORDINARY
DILIGENCE FOR THE SAFETY AND
PROTECTION OF PASSENGERS
To the Committee on Public Services
OF LEGISLATION, ON THE ISSUE
OF RICE SMUGGLING AND
PROCUREMENT POLICY SHIFTS
ON RICE IMPORTATION, WITH
THE END IN VIEW OF ENSURING
THAT THE NATIONAL FOOD
AUTHORITY IMPLEMENTS MECHAN
ISMS AND POLICIES THAT ARE
CONSISTENT AND DULY SAFE
GUARDED AGAINST CORRUPTION
RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE PROPER
SENATE COMMITTEES TO CON
DUCT AN INQUIRY, IN AID QF
LEGISLATION, ON ADVERTISE
MENT PLACEMENTS MADE BY
THE DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM
WITH TELEVISION NETWORKS
AND MEDIA AGENCIES
Introduced by Senator Maria Lourdes Nancy
S. Binay
To the Committee on Accountability of
Public Officers and Investigations ^

COMMITTEE ON NATIONAL
DEFENSE AND SECURITY TO
OF LEGISLATION, ON CHINA’S
INSTALLATION OF MISSILE
SYSTEMS ON THREE (3) FORTIFIED
OUTPOSTS IN THE SPRATLY
ISLANDS WHICH IS BEING
CLAIMED BY THE PHILIPPINES,
WITH THE END IN VIEW OF
ASSERTING THE COUNTRY’S
SOVEREIGNTY AND TERRITORIAL
INTEGRITY, AND ENSURING THAT
THIS MILITARIZATION BY CHINA
DOES NOT POSE ANY THREAT TO
THE PHILIPPINE’S DEFENSE AND
SECURITY
Introduced by Senator Trillanes IV
To the Committees on National
and Security; and Foreign Relations
Defense
OF LEGISLATION, INTO CHINA’S
INSTALLATION OF MISSILES ON
MISCHIEF (PANGANIBAN) REEF,
SUBI (ZAMORA) REEF, AND FIERY
CROSS (KAGITINGAN) REEF, AND
THE DIRECTION OF OUR FOREIGN
POLICY, WITH THE END VIEW OF
PROTECTING OUR SOVEREIGN
RIGHTS AND PRESERVING OUR
NATIONAL SECURITY AND
INTERESTS
Aquino IV
To The Committees On National Defense
And Security; And Foreign Relations
RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING AND
CONGRATULATING SAN MIGUEL
ALAB PILIPINAS FOR WINNING
THE 2018 ASEAN BASKETBALL
LEAGUE
OF LEGISLATION, INTO THE RULES
AND CONDITIONS FOR THE ADMIS
SION AND DEPORTATION OF
FOREIGN NATIONALS TO ENSURE
THAT THESE DO NOT UNJUSTLY
CURTAIL THEIR BASIC HUMAN
RIGHTS, INCLUDING FREEDOM OF
SPEECH, FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION,
AND THE RIGHT TO PEACEFUL
ASSEMBLY
Aquino FV
To the Committee on Justice and Human
Rights
COMMITTEE ON TOURISM TO
CONDUCT AN INQUIRY, IN AID OF
LEGISLATION, ON THE ANOMAL
OUS P60-MILLION ADVERTISE
MENT PLACEMENT MADE BY THE
DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM (DOT)
WITH BITAG MEDIA UNLIMITED,
INC., FOR AIRTIME IN KILOS
PRONTO, A PTV-4 PROGRAM
PRODUCED AND CO-HOSTED BY
THE BROTHERS OF DOT SECRETARY
WANDA TEO, WITH THE END IN
VIEW OF ENSURING THAT THE
BUDGET ALLOCATED TO DOT,
PARTICULARLY FOR ITS EXPENDI
TURES IN ADVERTISING AND
MARKETING, ARE LEGALLY AND
PROPERLY DISBURSED AND SPENT
Introduced by Senator Trillanes FV
r

WEDNESDAY, M AY 16,2018
objection, the Chair declared the session adjourned
until three o’clock in the afternoon of Monday. May
21,2018.
It was 6:47 p.m.
I hereby certify to the correctness of the
foregoing.
LTTY. LUTGARDO B. BAKBO
Secretary of the Senate
Approved on May 21, 2018
1972
To the Committee on Accountability of Public
Officers and Investigations
CHANGE OF REFERRAL
With the concurrence of the committee chair,
Senator Honasan, as well as the authors of the
subject resolutions. Senators Trillanes and Aquino,
upon motion of Senator Sotto, there being no objec
tion, the Body approved the change of referral
of Proposed Senate Resolution Nos. 722 and 723 to
the Committee on Foreign Relations as the primary
committee, and to the Committee on National Defense
and Security as the secondary committee.
ADJOURNMENT OF SESSION

SESSION NO. 74 SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS SECOND REGULAR SESSION

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SESSION NO. 74 SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS SECOND REGULAR SESSION