Senator Benigno S.

Aquino III’s Legislative Record

1.0 Attendance

OFFICIAL
Attendance PRESENT MISSION ABSENT
(Local)
Roll OM/
14th Congress Late Total
Call Late
First Regular Session
Session Nos. 1 – 88 85 1 - 86 - -
July 23, 2007 – June 11, 2008

Second Regular Session

Session Nos. 1 – 84 80 2 - 82 1 1
July 28, 2008 – June 3, 2009

Third Regular Session

Session Nos. 1 – 39
27 8 2 37 1 1
July 27, 2009 –
December 14, 2009

2.0 Senate Bills

Senate Bill Summary Status

Bills Authored
SBSA filed a bill amending section 4 of RA
9184 or the Government Procurement Act to
make it very clear that it applies to all
government procurement activities, regardless Pending in the
of source of funds, whether local or foreign, Committees on
Amending the and that only treaties or international or Constitutional
Government executive agreements entered into by the Amendments,
Procurement Act government prior to its enactment shall be Revision of
(SB 2160) exempt from its coverage. This bill was filed in Codes and
light of the declaration by the DOJ of the Laws, and
validity of the NBN-ZTE deal citing its Finance
international and executive agreement nature
as reason for its exemption from the
procurement process as stipulated in RA 9184.
Reform in the Passed in the
appointment of Local Chief Executives, by virtue of RA 7160 Senate
PNP directors (the Local Government Code) and RA 6970
(SB 2978/ (DILG Act of 1990) as amended by RA 8551, Pending in the
CR 242) have “operational supervision and control” over House of

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 PNP units assigned at their territorial Representatives
jurisdiction. They shall also have the power to
choose their provincial police director and chief
of police. They also have the power and
authority to recommend the recall or re-
assignment of the chief of police.
However, conflict arose between the local chief
executives and the Philippine National Police/
National Police Commission because there
was no clear delineation of powers and
functions over the appointment of chief of
polices or their dismissal.
SBSA filed a resolution to ascertain the facts
surrounding the conflict and determine whether
the practice of the appointment and or removal
of chief of polices is consistent with the law.
In conjunction with the resolution, SBSA filed
Senate Bill 2978 amending the DILG Act and
which clarifies with specificity the powers and
functions of the local chief executives and the
PNP/NAPOLCOM with regards to chief of
polices. It also gives term limits to chief of
polices in the provinces.

Impoundment is the power of the President to

refuse the release of funds appropriated by
Congress. However, this power has been used
and abused by the President and in the
Budget process “emasculating Congress’ authority to
Pending in the
Impoundment check the President’s authority to spend public
Committee on
Control Act funds.” That is why SBSA filed Senate Bill 3121
Finance
(SB 3121) or the Budget Impoundment Control Act which
requires the President to submit to Congress
for approval the “Rescission or Reservation of
a Budget Appropriation” every time he/she
decides to impound part of the budget.

Increasing Pending in the

Penalties for Committee on
SBSA filed Senate Bill 2036 which seeks to
Non-compliance Labor,
increase the penalties imposed on corporations
in the Wage Employment
or work establishments who are non-compliant
Rationalization and Human
with the minimum wage set by law.
Act Resources
(SB 2036) Development
Banning the re- SBSA filed a bill banning reappointments to the Passed in the
appointment of Judicial and Bar Council in order to avoid the Senate
members of the possibility of instances where its members, in
JBC that already their desire to be reappointed to the Council, Pending in the

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 served a full succumb to pressure from the executive to House of
term nominate individuals based on political Representatives
(SB 1710/ considerations instead of their actual merits
CR 23) and qualifications, seriously undermining the
quality of judicial appointments and the
independence of the judiciary as a whole.

Senate Bill 2035 seeks to prevent “faulty and

defective infrastructure” by raising the
Preservation of standards in the construction of all public
Pending in the
Public infrastructures and by penalizing the
Committee on
Infrastructures contractors of defective infrastructures. It also
Public Works
(SB 2035) requires the Bureau of Maintenance under the
DPWH to conduct periodic inspections of public
infrastructures.

Pending in the
SBSA filed Senate Bill 1370 which grant
Committee on
Productivity Productivity Incentives Bonuses to employees
Labor,
Incentives Act for net profits gained by any company or
Employment
(SB 1370/ business establishment. This aims to improve
and Human
CR 105) the performance and productivity of employees
Resources
in the private sector.
Development

SBSA filed Senate Bill 1719 which enforces the Pending in the
Prevention of re- checks and balances on the President’s Committee on
appointment and appointive powers by limiting the number of Constitutional
bypassing the times an official may be re-appointed when Amendments,
CA their appointment has not been “favorably Revision of
(SB 1719) acted upon by the Commission on Codes and
Appointments at the close of the session...” Laws

SBSA filed Senate Bill 2159 which holds

Pending in the
Superior responsible superior and senior officers, who
Committee on
Responsibility by their consent, toleration or negligence in the
Justice and
(SB 2159) control and supervision of their subordinates,
Human Rights
violated and abused the rights of the citizens.

Bills Co-authored
SBSA was co-author of the Real Property
Real Property
Valuation Bill which seeks to “promote the
Valuation Pending
development and maintenance of a just,
Reform Act Second
equitable, impartial, and nationally consistent
(SB 3519/ Reading
real property valuation based on internationally
CR 740)
accepted valuation standards…”

General Santos SBSA amended the General Santos City

City Charter Charter to give ownership of lands of public Passed into
(SB 3275/ domain ceded to General Santos City by the Law
CR 454/ National Government.

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 RA 9649)

Amusement Tax SBSA authored the bill which decreases the

Exemption amusement tax which may be charged by the
Lapsed into
(SB 2325/ local government units from 30% to 10%. This
Law
CR 56/ will aid the already ailing entertainment industry
RA 9640) by relaxing their tax burden.
Fact Finding
Investigation: SBSA was co-author of the bill which creates
Disasters and an independent Commission which shall
Pending in the
Calamities due investigate the causes, circumstances, costs,
Committee on
to storm Ondoy and actions to be taken in light of the
Climate Change
and Pepeng devastation brought by Typhoon Ondoy and
(SB 3480) Pepeng.

Local Water SBSA was co-author of the bill which exempts Conference
Districts Income Local Water Districts from taxes in order to Committee
Tax Exemption increase their savings which will be used to Report
(SB 3392/ expand water services and improve water approved by
CR 551) quality. both Chambers

SBSA was co-author of the bill which

Adlaw ni Lapu- Pending in the
commemorates the heroism of Lapu-Lapu
Lapu House of
against the Spaniards by declaring April 27 of
(SB 3284) Representatives
every year a special non-working holiday.

Philippine SBSA was co-author of the Philippine Disaster

Pending in the
Disaster Risk Risk Management Act which improves the
Bicameral
Management country’s disaster risk preparedness and
Committee
(SB 3086/ response with the goal of protecting the life and
Conference
CR 248) property of the people.

Climate Change SBSA was co-author of the Climate Change

Act Act which adopts a policy of sustainable
Passed into
(SB 2583/ development and protects and preserves the
Law
CR 99/ environment to mitigate the effects of climate
RA 9729) change.

Posting of
Summary of In an effort to make local government units
Income and transparent and accountable to its constituents, Pending in the
Expenditures of SBSA co-authored the bill which mandates the House of
LGUs posting of the summary of income and Representatives
(SB 2006/ expenditures of LGUs.
CR 34)

Revised Fire SBSA co-authored the revised Fire Code of the

Code of the Philippines which places regulations on Passed into
Philippines buildings and other infrastructures to prevent Law
(SB 2553/ destructive fires and ultimately protect the

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 CR 94/ citizens from loss of property due to such fires.
RA 9514)

Barangay
Livelihood and SBSA co-authored Senate Bill 2092 which
Skills Training establishes livelihood and skills training centers
Passed into
Act in 4th, 5th, and 6th class municipalities to
Law
(SB 2092/ alleviate poverty and develop the economy in
CR 40/ the rural areas.
RA 9509)

SBSA co-authored the bill which seeks to make

LGUs’ choice of Pending in the
LGUs become more independent in their
depository bank House of
choice of banks in which they could deposit
(SB 2005) Representatives
funds.

University of the SBSA co-authored the University of the

Philippines Philippines Charter which seeks to strengthen
Charter the University of the Philippines as the National Passed into
(SB 1964/ University which shall “protect, foster, nurture Law
CR 24/ and protect the right of all citizens to accessible
RA 9500) quality education.”

3.0 Senate Resolutions

Resolution Summary

Resolutions Authored
According the Local Government Code, barangay officials and
Sangguniang Kabataan officials are exempted from tuition and
matriculation fees when in attendance in State Universities and
Matriculation of
Colleges. However, various SUCs imposed limitations on the
the SK and
availment of these educational benefits.
Barangay
Officials in SUCs
SBSA filed a resolution investigating the said incident considering
(SRN. 975)
that these officials are legally entitled to such benefits because of
their significant contributions to peace and order and
development of their respective barangay community.

Investigation into
the possibility of SBSA filed a resolution questioning the need to elect members of
a Constitutional the Constitutional Convention that will amend the 1987
Convention Constitution through the May 2010 National Elections.
(SRN 819)

Investigation into
the Bataan Gun SBSA filed a resolution seeking an investigation into the Bataan
Smuggling gun smuggling which took place last August 21, 2009.
(SRN 1327)

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Investigation into
the warrantless SBSA filed a resolution questioning the “warrantless arrests” of a
arrests of group alleged of plotting a raid to rescue detained Magdalo
Magdalo members. The “warrantless arrests” violates their inherent human
members rights as protected in the Constitution.
(SRN 1047)

Investigation into
the human rights
SBSA filed a resolution investigating the events immediately
abuses during
following the Manila Peninsula Stand-off wherein media
the Manila
personnel were arrested and their equipment confiscated which
Peninsula Stand-
is in violation of the Freedom of the Press.
off
(SRN 229)

SBSA filed a resolution seeking an investigation into the

explosion in the Starmaker Factory at Trece Martirez, Cavite. The
Investigation into investigation is intended to determine whether there was lapse in
the Pyrotechnics government regulation of the fireworks industry. It is also
Regulation intended to propose legislation to strengthen the regulation of the
(SRN 877) manufacture and production fireworks and to prevent the
occurrence of accidents which damages not only the surrounding
property but also endanger the lives of the people in proximity.

Investigation into SBSA filed a resolution questioning the demolition by the Metro
the UDHA Manila Development Authority (MMDA) of illegal shelters without
implementation providing relocation sites for the displaced families contrary to RA
(SRN 402) 7270 or the Urban Development and Housing Act.

Inhuman and
Election-Related
SBSA filed a resolution condemning in the strongest possible
Massacre and
terms the brutal and inhuman massacre of innocent civilians and
Carnage of
journalists in Maguindanao. Likewise, the resolution called for an
Innocent
investigation into the incident with the end view of proposing
Civilians in
legislative measures that would promote lasting peace and
Maguindanao
prosperity in Mindanao.
Province
(SRN 1491)

Commendation;
Mary Grace Tan SBSA authored the resolution commending Mary Grace Tan and
and Kenneth Kenneth Ray Agustin for winning the Gold (Ladies Division) and
Ray Agustin the Bronze (Men’s Open Junior), respectively, in the European
(SRN 171/ Handgun Championship level 4 in Cheval-Blanc, France.
Adp. SRN 26)

Resolutions Co-Authored
Commending SBSA co-authored the resolution commending and honoring
and Honoring Muelmar Magallenes who sacrificed his life to save his family and

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 Muelmar neighbors who were victims of the flood brought about by
Magallanes typhoon Ondoy. This is in recognition of the Filipino spirit of
(SRN 1390/ heroism and self sacrifice as exhibited not only by Muelmar
Adp. SRN 210) Magallanes but also by the countless Filipinos who braved the
storm to reach out and help their fellow Filipinos who were
devastated by such calamities.

Proclamation of
Martial Law in SBSA co-authored the resolution expressing the sense of the
Maguindanao Senate that the proclamation of Martial Law in Maguindanao is
(SRN 1522/ unconstitutional.
Adp. SRN 217)

Commending
and honoring
Private First
SBSA co-authored the resolution which commends and honors
Class Venancio
Private First Class Venancio Ancheta and Corporal Adrianno
Ancheta and
Regua for their selfless sacrifice in the performance of their
Corporal
duties in recuing victims of typhoon Ondoy in Laguna.
Adrianno Regua
(SRN 1389/
Adp. 209)

Priority
Development SBSA co-authored the resolution which enjoins every Senator to
Assistance Fund donate P1 million from their Priority Development Assistance
(SRN 1378/ Fund to aid the victims of Typhoon Ondoy.
Adp. 206)

International Day SBSA co-authored the resolution which commemorates the

of Democracy second International Day of Democracy on September 15, 2009.
(SRN 1362/ The resolution also enjoins the Senate to instill the spirit and
Adp. SRN 203) culture of democracy in the youth through legislative measures.

Honoring Erano SBSA co-authored the resolution honoring the late Erano G.
G. Manalo Manalo leader of the Iglesia Ni Cristo for his “steadfast
(SRN 1331/ commitment and his unwavering dedication to spreading the
Adp. SRN 199) message of God Almighty…”

Condolence on
the death of Kim
SBSA co-authored the resolution expressing the sincere
Dae-Jung,
condolence of the Philippine Senate on the death of Kim Dae-
former President
Jung, former President of South Korea, Nobel Peace Prize
of South Korea
Winner (2000), and democratic leader of South Korea.
(SRN 1326/
Adp. SRN 193)

Commendation: SBSA was co-author in a resolution which commends the four

Four Uniformed uniformed men who served as Honor Guards during the funeral
Men in the procession of the late former President Corazon Aquino.
Funeral

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 Procession of
the Late Former
President
Corazon Aquino
(SRN 1260/
Adp. SRN 191)

Congratulating
the Iglesia
SBSA co-authored the resolution congratulating the Iglesia
Filipina
Filipina Independiente on their 107th anniversary on August 3,
Independiente
2009.
(SRN 1244/
Adp. SRN 189)

Honoring Justice SBSA co-authored the resolution honoring the late Justice Emilio
Emilio A. A. Gancyaco who exemplified his commitment to justice and
Gancayco uplifted the plight of Filipino migrant workers when he served as
(SRN 1243/ Chairperson of the Presidential Fact-Finding and Policy Advisory
Adp. 188) Commission for the Protection of Overseas Filipinos.

Pre-Need
SBSA co-authored the resolution expressing the sense of the
Companies and
Senate that victims of failed pre-need companies and investment
Investment
scams should be considered as “Indigent Litigants” and
Scam
therefore, exempt from paying legal and filing fees charged by
(SRN 1118/
the Department of Justice and Supreme Court.
Adp. SRN 179)

95th Founding
Anniversary of SBSA co-authored the resolution honoring the 95th founding
Iglesia ni Cristo anniversary of the Iglesia ni Cristo and extolling the leadership of
(SRN 1063/ Ka Eraño G. Manalo and Ka Eduardo V. Manalo.
Adp. SRN 175)

Warrantless
Arrests of the
SBSA co-authored the resolution that expresses the sense of the
relatives and
Senate that the Quezon City Police Officers gravely abused their
helpers of Mr.
authority in enforcing warrantless arrests of the relatives and
Ted Failon Etong
helpers of Mr. Ted Failon Etong.
(SRN 1003/
Adp. SRN 165)

SBSA co-authored the amendment to the Rules of the Senate

Amendments to
allowing Senators to participate in Senate Sessions, Hearings
the Rules of the
and/or meetings through remote or electronic means. This will
Senate
allow Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV to perform his duties as a duly
(SRN 765)
elected Senator of the country.

National Roads SBSA co-authored the resolution which seeks to investigate the
Improvement irregular bidding and collusive practices of the Department of
and Public Works and Highways and Filipino Chinese Contractors
Management with respect to the World Bank funded National Roads

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 Program Improvement and Management Program.
(SRN 899)

SBSA co-authored the resolution expressing the sense of the

Amendments/ Senate that any attempt of the House of Representatives to
Revision of the propose amendments to, or revision of, the constitution without
Constitution the approval by three-fourths (3/4) of the Senate voting
(SRN 811/ separately is unconstitutional. This is also to prevent any self
Adp. SRN 154) serving intention that may be introduced once the Constitution is
opened for amendments.

Judicial Post SBSA co-authored the resolution expressing the sense of the
Voting Process Senate that the Judicial and Bar Council should disclose to the
Disclosure public the outcome of the voting process for any Judicial post in
{Judicial and Bar the Sandiganbayan, Court of Appeals, and Supreme Court for
Council} the purpose of transparency and accountability in the selection
(SRN 775) and nomination process of the Judicial and Bat Council.

Construction of
the C-5 Road
Extension, SBSA co-authored the resolution investigating the double
renamed Pres. appropriations for the C-5 Road Project, which allegedly passed
Carlos P. Garcia through the properties of Senator Manuel Villar, receiving
Avenue payments for right of way.
Extension
(SRN 622)

Commending
Governor Grace SBSA co-authored the resolution commending Governor Grace
Padaca Padaca for exemplifying the true spirit of Good Governance for
(SRN 544/ being awarded the Ramon Magsaysay Award.
Adp. SRN 101)

Expression of
Condolence;
Death of Rep. SBSA co-authored the resolution expressing the condolences of
Crispin Beltran the Senate on the death of Hon. Crispin Beltran.
(SRN 409/
Adp. SRN 76)

Curfew imposed
from 12 MN until SBSA co-authored the resolution expressing the sense of the
5 AM on Senate that the curfew imposed from 12 midnight until 5 in the
November 30, morning of November 30, 2007 is without legal and constitutional
2007 basis, and borders on the violation of human rights.
(SRN 233)

Inquiry, GAB SBSA co-authored the resolution inquiring into the alleged undue
Interference with interference of the Games and Amusement Board into the
Billiards and powers, functions, and duties of the billiards and snooker
Snooker Congress of the Philippines.

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Congress of the
Philippines
(SRN 386)

Sympathy and
Investigation;
Bomb Explosion SBSA co-authored the resolution condemning the bombing of
at the House of one of the country’s democratic institutions, House of
Representatives Representatives.
(SRN 205/
Adp. SRN 38)

SBSA co-authored a resolution commending the Madrigal

Commendation;
Singers for winning the 2007 European Grand Prix for Choral
Madrigal Singers
Singing in Arezzo, Italy. This recognizes not only the talent of the
(SRN 107/
Madrigal Singers but also their contributions to the promotion of
Adp. SRN 16)
Filipino culture abroad.

Commendation;
Outstanding Ten SBSA co-authored the resolution commending the 10
teachers of 2007 Outstanding teachers of 2007 awarded by the MetroBank
(SRN 102/ Foundation, Inc.
Adp. SRN 15)

Commendation;
SBSA co-authored the resolution commending former Senate
Senator Jovito
President Jovito Salonga for “exemplifying the true spirit of good
Salonga
governance, and for being bestowed with the 2007 Ramon
(SRN 54/
Magsaysay Award for Government Service.”
Adp. SRN 8)

Allowing Sen.
Antonio Trillanes
SBSA co-authored the resolution expressing the sense of the
IV to participate
Senate to allow Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV to exercise his mandate
in the Senate
from his constituency of more than 12 million and perform his
Session
responsibilities as a duly elected senator of the republic.
(SRN 22/
Adp. SRN 3)

Resolution
SBSA co-authored the resolution condemning the inhumane
Honoring the 14
treatment of the 14 marines who perished in the skirmish with the
Marines who
Abu Sayyaf and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front in Albarka,
perished in the
Basilan last July 10, 2007. The marines were looking for the
line of duty in
kidnapped Italian priest Giancarlo Bossi when the 50 marines
Albarka, Basilan
were ambushed by 400 Abu Sayyaf and MILF troops.
(SRN 4)

4.0 Works in the Committee on Local Government

Bills passed by the Committee on Local Government

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Bills on Local Holidays

HBN 2160 (March 16 as Romblon Foundation Day)

R.A. No. 9162 (signed into law on June 11, 2009)

HBN 5280 (March 21 as Victorias City Charter Day in Negros Occidental

R.A. No. 9643 (signed into law on June 11, 2009)

HBN 5288 (August 28 as Cagayan de Oro City Day)

R.A. No. 9644 (signed into law on June 11, 2009)

HBN 6014 and SBN 2993 (Amending R.A. 5412 - Charter of the City of General
Santos)
R.A. No. 9649 (signed into law on July 7, 2009)

HBN 1125 ((July 18 as T’nalak Festival in South Cotabato))

R.A. No. 9654 (signed into law on July 17, 2009)

HBN 1314 (September 18 as Bislig City Charter Day in Surigao del Sur)
R.A. No. 9683 (signed into law on August 4, 2009)

HBN 3685 (October 2 as Majayjay Day in Laguna)

R.A. No. 9701 (signed into law on August 7, 2009)

HBN 206 (September 29 as Balilihan Day in Bohol)

R.A. No. 9706 (signed into law on August 7, 2009)

HBN 5285 (August 10 as San Jose City Charter Day in Nueva Ecija)
Approved on Third Reading

HBN 5284 (September 10 as Foundation Day of San Jose del Monte City in
Bulacan)
Approved on Third Reading

HBN 2495 (July 31 as Battle of Paye Day in Marinduque)

Approved on Third Reading

HBN 5286 (October 12 as Getafe Foundation Day in Bohol)

Approved on Third Reading

HBN 5287 (January 12 as Charter Day of Talisay City in Cebu)

Approved on Third Reading

HBN 521 (June 23 as Palawan and Puerto Princesa City Day)

Approved on Third Reading

HBN 1349 (September 29 as Araw ng San Rafael)

Pending in the Committee

HBN 4227 (September 11 as Valenzuela City Day)

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Pending in the Committee

HBN 839 (September 11 as President Ferdinand Edralin Marcos Day, Ilocos Norte
and Laoag City)
Pending in the Committee

HBN 5289 (July 7 as City of Carcar Charter Day)

Pending in the Committee

HBN 5290 (September 5 as Charter Day of the City of Naga)

Pending in the Committee

HBN 1823 (January 2 as Araw ng Bonifacio)

Pending in the Committee

HBN 2460 (November 4 as the anniversary of Hermano Puli)

Pending in the Committee

HBN 4919 (May 22 as a special non-working holiday in Guimaras, anniversary as a

province)
Pending in the Committee

HBN 5029 (December 16 as Sorsogon City Foundation Day)

Pending in the Committee

HBN 5758 (December 8 as Marikina City Day)

Pending in the Committee

HBN 5759 (September 15 as San Juan Municipality Day)

Pending in the Committee

HBN 340 (September 7 as Foundation Day of the City of Cavite)

Pending in the Committee

HBN 344 (September 29 as Araw ng Bacoor)

Pending in the Committee

HBN 2181 (November 22 as Sultan Kudarat Foundation Day Anniversary)

Pending in the Committee

HBN 2227 (June 20 as a special non-working holiday in Dagupan City)

Pending in the Committee

HBN 5757 (Second to the last Friday of August as Indigenous People’s Day)
Pending in the Committee

HBN 5764 (June 15 as Araw ng Opol)

Pending in the Committee

HBN 5765 (January 31 as Araw ng Tagoloan)

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Pending in the Committee

HBN 5766 (June 8 as Araw ng Gitagum)

Pending in the Committee

HBN 5767 (August 18 as Araw ng Alubijid)

Pending in the Committee

HBN 5768 (July 29 as Araw ng Villanueva)

Pending in the Committee

HBN 5770 (September 1 as Araw ng Jasaan)

Pending in the Committee

HBN 5771 (July 21 as Araw ng Claveria)

Pending in the Committee

HBN 5772 (July 12 as Araw ng Libertad)

Pending in the Committee

HBN 5773 (June 14 as Araw ng Naawan)

Pending in the Committee

HBN 5774 (February 7 as Araw ng Manticao)

Pending in the Committee

HBN 5775 (March 16 as Araw ng Lugait)

Pending in the Committee

HBN 5810 (August 25 as a special non-working holiday in Gapan City, Nueva Ecija)
Pending in the Committee

HBN 5811 (April 27 as Kadaugan sa Maktan Day)

Pending in the Committee

HBN 5813 (January 25 as Municipal Foundation Day, Carigara, Leyte)

Pending in the Committee

HBN 5814 (December 6 as Inopacan Day)

Pending in the Committee

HBN 5815 (September 3 as Iriga City Foundation Anniversary)

Pending in the Committee

HBN 5817 (September 12 as Capital Town Day, Siquijor, Siquijor)

Pending in the Committee

HBN 5818 (October 18 as Semaphore Signal Day)

Pending in the Committee

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HBN 5639 (July 6 as Santiago City Charter Day)
Pending in the Committee

HBN 6265 (August 12 as a special non-working holiday in Dapa, Surigao del Norte)
Pending in the Committee

HBN 6941 (July 20 as Lepanto-Mankayan Victory and Liberation Day)

Pending in the Committee

HBN 6942 (June 15 as Daet Day)

Pending in the Committee

Bills on Redistricting/ Reapportionment

HBN 3224 (Reapportionment of the Lone Legislative District of Agusan del Sur)
R.A. No. 9508 (signed by the President on Oct. 20, 2008)

HBN 3693 (Reapportionment of the Lone Legislative District of Malolos City,

Bulacan)
R.A. No. 9591 (lapsed into law on May 1, 2009)

HBN 4163 (Reapportioning the Province of Camarines Norte from lone to 2

Legislative Districts)
R.A. No. 9725 (signed by the President on October 22, 2009)

HBN 4254 (Reapportioning the Province of Cavite from 4 to 7 Legislative Districts)

R.A. No. 9727 (signed by the President on October 22, 2009)

HBN 4264 (Reapportioning the Province of Camarines Sur from 4 to 5 Legislative

Districts)
R.A. No. 9716 (signed by the President October 12, 2009)

HBN 5007 (Reapportioning the City of Lapu-Lapu as Lone Legislative District)

R.A. No. 9726 (Signed by the President on October 22, 2009)

HBN 4054 (Reapportionment of Iligan City as Lone Legislative District)

R.A. No. 9724 (Signed by the President on October 20, 2009)

HBN 4053 (Reapportionment of the Province of Lanao del Norte)

R.A. No. 9774 (Signed by the President on November 17, 2009)

HBN 4267 (Reapportionment of Pangasinan from 6 to 7 Legislative Districts)

Conducted Committee Hearings

HBN 5273 (Reapportionment of Puerto Princesa City as Lone Legislative District)

Conducted Committee Hearings

HBN 4256 (Reapportioning Iloilo City)

Pending in the Committee

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HBN 5761 (Creating the 7th legislative district in the Province of Cebu)
Pending in the Committee

HBN 5989 (Creating the 3rd legislative district in Cebu City)

Pending in the Committee

HBN 6029 (Reapportioning the Province of Cotabato into three legislative districts)
Pending in the Committee

Bills on Cityhood and Creation of Municipality

HBN 5226 (Converting the Municipality of Biñan, Laguna into a component City)
R.A. No. 9740 (Signed by the President on October 30, 2009)

HBN 5258 (Converting the Municipality of Dasmariñas, Cavite as a component City)

R.A. No. 9723 (Signed by the President on October 15, 2009)

HBN 6518 (Creating the Municipality of Dr. Juan C. Angara in Aurora Province)
Pending in the Committee

Bills on Barangays
HBN 3223 (Creating Barangay Mangmanga in San Emilio, Ilocos Sur)
Certification from the NCIP has been submitted to the Committee

HBN 3727 (Creating Barangay Nipojnoc in Aguinaldo, Ifugao)

Pending in the Committee

HBN 5652 (Creating Barangay Banawa-Englis in Cebu City)

Approved on Third Reading

Bills Amending a Local Territory

HBN 3206 (Creating the Municipality of San Jose, Dinagat Islands)
The House of Representatives concurred with the Senate amendments

HBN 6374 (Revising the Charter of the City of Baguio)

Pending in the Committee

Bills Renaming Political Subdivision

HBN 534 (Changing the name of Barangay Matacla in Goa, Camarines Sur to
Barangay Mayor Lorenzo P. Padua)
Pending in the Committee

HBN 6650 (Changing the name of Southern Leyte to Leyte del Sur)
Pending in the Committee

Bills Increasing the Number of Seats in the Local Sanggunian

HBN 4255 (Increasing the number of Sangguniang Panlungsod seats in the city of

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Valenzuela)
Pending in the Committee

HBN 5647 (Increasing the number of Sangguniang Panlungsod seats in the city of
Meycauayan)
Pending in the Committee

Bills Creating of a Council/ Board

HBN 3389 (Creating the Bacolor Rehabilitation Council)
R.A. No. 9506 (Signed into law by the President on September 28, 2008)

HBN 4252 (Creating a Local Housing Board in every municipality, city, and province)
Pending in the Committee

Bills Amending the Local Government Code

SBN 2005 (LGUs’ choice of depository banks)
Pending in the House of Representatives

SBN 2006 (Posting and publishing of summary of income and expenditures)

Pending in the House of Representatives

SBN 2325 and HBN 5624 (Reducing the Amusement Tax)

R.A. No. 9640 (lapsed into law on May 26, 2009)

HBN 4916 (Empowering the Local Sanggunians)

Pending in the Committee

Other Bills from the Committee

HBN 3389 (Creating the Bacolor Rehabilitation Council)
R.A. No. 9506 (signed by the President on September 28, 2008)

HBN 3206 (Amending the Territorial Jurisdiction of San Jose, Dinagat Islands)
R.A. No. 9859 (signed by the President on December 20, 2009)

SBN 1757 (Regulating the Use of Sidewalks for Commercial and Other Purposes)
Pending in the House of Representatives

SBN 2978 (Department of Interior and Local Government Act, Substitute bill for P.S.
Res. No. 190 - Implementation of PNP Laws)
Pending in the House of Representatives

HBN 3195 (Providing for direct remittance to the host local government units of its
40% share of gross collection derived by the national government)
Pending in the Committee

HBN 3726 (Devolving the regulatory and franchising powers over the operation of
habal-habal to cities and municipalities)
Pending in the Committee
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HBN 3728 (Requiring all LGUs to adopt a Recognition Day for Boy Scouts and Girl
Scouts)
Pending in the Committee

SRN 402 (Implementation of UDHA)

Pending in the Committee

SBN 1993 (Local Management Information System)

Pending in the Committee

SBN 2, 199, 539, 1441, 1529, 2513, 2516, 247, 441, 522, 599, 2137, 2138, 2414,
and 2427 (Benefits for Barangay Officials, Tanods and Volunteers)
Pending in the Committee

HBN 3791 (Rationalizing the income requirements for the declaration of highly
urbanized status in the case of component cities and for the creation of a province)
Pending in the Committee

HBN 4913 (Transfer of Administration and Properties, Intramuros)

Pending in the Committee

HBN 6014 (Amending the Charter of the City of General Santos)

R.A. No. 9649 (Signed by the President on July 7, 2009)

HBN 6205 (Changing the appointment of the Environment and Natural Resources
Officer from optional to mandatory)
Pending in the Committee

HBN 333 (Prohibiting city mayors, municipal mayors, and provincial governors from
making appointments two months immediately before the next local elections)
Pending in the Committee

HBN 6589 (Making mandatory the appointment of cooperatives officer)

Pending in the Committee

5.0 Budget Amendments by SBSA

FY 2008 General Appropriations Act (GAA)

SBSA amended the provision on the release and administration of the Kilos Asenso
Support Fund under the section on the Allocations to Local Government Unit in the
Fiscal Year 2008 General Appropriations Act. The following is the amendment of
Senator Aquino III;

“Oversight Committee. An inter-agency Oversight Committee,

hereinafter referred to as the Committee, is hereby constituted for
purposes of coordinating and overseeing the implementation of the
projects under the Kilos Asenso Program.

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 The Committee shall be composed of the Secretary of the Department of
Budget and Management (DBM) as Chairman and its members are the
Chairmen of the Committee on Local Government of the Senate and
House of Representatives and the Secretary of the Department of
Interior and Local Government. The Committee shall promulgate the
implementing rules and regulations (IRR) which will provide the
guidelines pertaining to the release and administration of the Kilos
Asenso Support Fund. Provided that: (a) no release of the Kilos Asenso
Support Fund shall be made until the constitution of the Oversight
Committee and the subsequent promulgation of the IRR as mandated
under this Act; and (b) all releases to this fund will be subject to a
Special Audit by the Commission on Audit, results of which shall be
submitted to the Oversight Committee.”

FY 2009 General Appropriations Act (GAA)

SBSA proposed amendments to the General Provisions of the FY 2009 GAA to

prevent the over release of funds as what happened in FY 2008. The following is the
Senator’s amendment;

“The provisions of this Act shall take effect after fifteen days following its
publication in the Official Gazette. Provided, however, that in the event
that this Act takes effect at any date other than January 1, 2009, an
amount equivalent to the re-enacted portion of the 2008 appropriations
that was expended pending the effectivity of this Act shall be considered
as withheld portion and shall automatically revert back to the National
Treasury.”

Amendments to the General Provisions regarding funds transferred to NGOs and

POs were also introduced by Senator Aquino III. SBSA wanted to limit the transfer of
government funds to NGOs and POs who still have not fully liquidated previous
funds released to them. The amendment also mandates government agencies
partnering with NGOs and POs to ensure that their partners are legitimate. The
following is the amendment of the senator;

“Sec. 75. Limitations on Fund Transfers to NGOs and POs. It is

hereby declared a policy of the government not to allow non-government
organizations and people’s organizations to participate in the
implementation of any program or project of the national and local
government until such time that any earlier fund releases availed of by
the said non-government organizations and people’s organization shall
have been fully liquidated pursuant to pertinent accounting and auditing
rules and regulations, as certified by the head of the agency concerned
and the COA auditor.

It shall be the duty of any government agency seeking to partner with

non-government organizations and people’s organizations to ensure that
these are not of questionable legitimacy. For this purpose, the head of
the agency and the COA auditor shall be jointly responsible for the

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 annual preparation and submission to the House Committee on
Appropriations and Senate Committee on Finance of the Annual Report
of Fund Releases indicating the names of the recipient non-government
organizations and people’s organizations."

SBSA also proposed for the dissolution of the Kalayaan Barangay Program Fund
and Kilos Asenso Support Fund.

The final amendment introduced by SBSA is the amendment which will prevent
releases from the Unprogrammed Funds unless there are excess funds after the
expenditures for one fiscal year. The following is the amendment of the senator;

“It shall be understood that the excess of the original revenue targets
shall mean the excess of the revenue targets for the entire fiscal year.”

6.0 Legislative Concerns of SBSA

Amendments to EPIRA

SBSA introduced amendments to Senate Bill 2121, seeking to strengthen the

prevention of market power abuse and unfair trade practices in the power industry
and in the furtherance of which, increases the penalties for violations of prohibited
acts.

Opposition to the sale of TRANSCO

SBSA opposed the privatization of the National Transmission Corporation

(TRANSCO) on the grounds that it is a revenue generating monopoly which
generates P16.7 Billion in revenues, thus depriving additional government income for
public service use. He also opposed the franchise because the National Grid
Corporation of the Philippines, the one to whom the TRANSCO franchise was
awarded, only has a financial capacity of P8.157 Billion with an authorized capital
stock of P2 Billion for 2008. SBSA questions how NGCP can manage a corporation
twice its size. Also, the downpayment for the corporation amounts to P46 Billion
which the NGCP does not have. In the end, SBSA’s concern is that energy
consumers might suffer from the deal because he is not convinced that NGCP is
“willing and able to manage, operate and expand the national grid…”

Opposed JPEPA

SBSA voted against the Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement

because the treaty is one-sided benefiting Japan more than it would benefit the
Philippines. SBSA wants a renegotiation of the treaty which is much more
advantageous and beneficial to the Filipino people.

Opposed the Supplemental Budget for the Implementation of Automated Elections

SBSA opposed the P11.4 Billion supplemental budget for the implementation
of the Automated Elections because the Commission on Elections cannot effectively

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implement automated polls with the little time that they had. Also, there are several
vulnerabilities in the system that may cause problems for the May 2010 elections.

Amended the Pre-Need Code

SBSA amended SBN 2077 to further protect the plan holders and to prevent
officers of the Pre-need firms from engaging in irregular practices within the firm
which might endanger the financial interests of the policy holders.

Amended the COOP Code

SBSA amended substitute SBN 2264 (Amending RA 6963 or the Cooperative

Code). SBSA seeks to make cooperatives as vehicles for social and economic
progress for the marginalized sectors by organizing themselves in addressing their
social and economic needs in their communities while fulfilling their social
responsibilities.

Sen. Aquino amended the law by clearly defining the concept of social
auditing in the Cooperative Code to make cooperative more socially responsible to
the communities it seeks to serve so that their impact are felt by those who are
supposed to benefit from their various services.

Amended the Anti-Trust Legislation

Sen. Aquino introduced substantial amendments to the proposed Antitrust

legislation which was passed by the Senate on third reading. The senator introduced
clear definitions of anti-competition practices taken from the best practices in
antitrust legislations based on international standards to maintain healthy
competition in a working market economy which is one of the hallmarks of a vibrant
democracy.

The National Budget

SBSA scrutinizes the budget in an effort to prevent the administration from

further corrupting public funds and become more prudent in its fiscal spending. He
also introduced the following amendments;

(1) Clarifying the term “excess of the original revenue targets” to mean
excess revenue target for the whole fiscal year. This aims to prevent the
Department of Budget and Management from over releases.
(2) Limiting fund transfers to NGOs and POs until funds previously
transferred to such organizations have been liquidated. This aims to
prevent another “Fertilizer Fund Scam” from occurring.
(3) Effectivity of the 2009 General Appropriations Act will start on January 1,
2009 and requires that the funds released prior to the approval of this Act
for the operations for FY 2009 be subtracted from the 2009 Budget.
(4) SBSA increased the budget of the Commission on Human Rights by
P1.514 Million.

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Amended the Kilos Asenso Fund

SBSA amended the 2008 General Appropriations Act seeking greater

transparency in the release of the P3 billion Kilos Asenso Support Fund.

Corruption and irregular government practices (NBN-ZTE deal, Fertilizer Fund Scam,
Euro Generals controversy, etc.)

SBSA has always been a champion of anti-corruption efforts and has always
participated in committee hearings and plenary discussions on how to address such
issues in order that it may not be repeated. Public funds should be used for public
services for the general welfare and should not be used for the luxuries of those who
control the funds.

Amendments to the Motorcycle Helmets

SBSA made amendments to SBN 1863 requiring motorcyclist to wear helmets

of the quality approved by the Bureau of Product Standards under the Department of
Trade and Industry.

7.0 Voting Record of SBSA

VOTES SENATE BILLS ON THIRD READING

First Regular Session (July 23, 2007 – June 11, 2008)

SBN 1532; Compensation for Victims of Human Rights Violation

YES
during the Marcos Regime

YES SBN 1620; Judiciary Retirement Benefits

YES SBN 1647; Good Conduct Time Allowances to Detention Prisoners

YES SBN 1662; Additional Benefits and Protection to Househelpers

YES SBN 1697; Anti-theft and Robbery of Mobile Phones and Devices

YES SBN 1698; Expanding the Promotion of Breastfeeding

YES SBN 1699; Environmental Awareness and Education Act

YES SBN 1710; Judiciary Independence Enhancing Act

YES SBN 1874; Health Workers Day

YES SBN 1881; Establishing the Credit Information System

YES SBN 1965; Decriminalizing Vagrancy

YES SBN 2077; Pre-Need Code of the Philippines

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 YES SBN 2092; Barangay Livelihood and Skill Training Act

YES SBN 2116; Special Program for Employment of Students

YES SBN 2213; Tourism Act

YES SBN 2325; Amusement Tax Exemption

YES SBN 2361; Providing a Mechanism for Free Legal Assistance

YES S. Jt. Res. 4; Presentation of Suspects to Media

Second Regular Session (July 28, 2008 – June 3, 2009)

SBN 31; Prescribing a Fixed Term for the Chief of Staff of the Armed
YES
Forces of the Philippines

SBN 233; Prohibiting a Person from being appointed as DND

YES Secretary within 3 years after retirement from active duty as a
Commissioned Officer of a Regular Component of the AFP

YES SBN 1757; Regulating the use of sidewalks for commercial

SBN 1976; Creating 6 additional branches of Metropolitan Trial

YES
Courts in the National Capital Region

SBN 1978; Penalizing Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman and

YES
Degrading Treatment or Punishment

SBN 1980; Establishing 2 branches of the Regional Trial Court to be

YES
stationed at the Municipality of Surallah, South Cotabato

SBN 1981; Creating 2 additional branches of the Regional Trial Court

YES
in the 11th Judicial Region at Korondal City, South Cotabato

YES SBN 2005; LGU’s choice of Depository Bank

SBN 2006; Posting of Summary of Income and Expenditures of

YES
LGUs

Did not vote SBN 2121; Electric Power Industry Reform Act

YES SBN 2150; Granting the Right of Reply

YES SBN 2317; Prohibiting Child Pornography

YES SBN 2394; Establishing the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park

SBN 2408; Additional support and compensation for educators in

YES
Basic Education

YES SBN 2410; Providing Research on Postpartum Syndrome

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 SBN 2583; Mainstream Climate Change into Government Policy
YES
Formulations

SBN 2639; Providing the Regulatory Framework for Real Estate

ABSTAINED
Investment Companies

SBN 2666; Strengthening the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform

ABSTAINED
Program

SBN 2669; Defining and Penalizing Crimes Against International

YES
Humanitarian Law

YES SBN 2978; Department of the Interior and Local Government Act

SBN 2991; Act to Strengthen the Office of the Government Corporate

YES
Counsel

Did not vote SBN 3014; National Cultural Heritage Act

YES SBN 3106; Magna Carta for Homeowners

SBN 3111; Providing for the Legitimation of Children Born to Parents

YES
who are below marrying age

YES SBN 3197; Anti-Trust Act

YES SBN 3275; Amending the Charter of General Santos

YES SBN 3285; Philippine National Red Cross Charter

Did not vote SBN 3286; Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos Act

8.0 Issues of SBSA

Executive Clemency

While SBSA recognizes that Executive Clemency is part of the powers and
prerogatives of the President, of late it has been abused and its abuse is leading to
the deterioration of law and order.

MOA-AD, Bangsamoro

SBSA opposes the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral

Domain because it is unconstitutional and its signing would violate national integrity.

EO 464 (Executive Privilege)

EO 464, or the gag order from the President on her executives is a clear
violation of the principle of checks and balances. With this executive order, the

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government is neglecting its responsibility to inform the public, which is consequently
the public’s right.

Pardon of Former President Erap Estrada

SBSA lauds the former President for undergoing court proceedings. In the
end, the rule of law should prevail.

JDV Amnesty Bill

SBSA cautions the passing of an “all-encompassing” amnesty bill, because

while amnesty may be given for political crimes, such amnesties must be given on a
case to case basis with a rigorous assessment of the case and the facts surrounding
which.

Public Safety and Security

SBSA has consistently questioned the agencies who were supposed to have
prevented disasters such as fireworks factory blasts and sinking of ships, for their
lack of regulation of the industries which they monitor, with the end view of
preserving public safety.

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