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If I were part of Congress, I would pass Senate Bill No. 1307 as a law - "AN ACT REQUIRING MANDATORY AUTOPSY ON BODIES OF CRIME VICTIMS, DEATHS UNDER MYSTERIOUS AND SUSPICIOUS CIRCUMSTANCES, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES." As of the moment, its status is still pending. In the Philippines, we often hear news of deaths in the country that go unexplained, which forensic science can help with.

In the Bill's explanatory note, it goes into detail about how the 1996 Sanitation Code is the only code that deals with autopsies and is antiquated, unrealistic, and impractical. By furthering the agenda of science and technology in our country, it can pave the way for not only the medical field but even the police force to help solve and understand the nature of these crimes further.

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The recent CoVid-19 pandemic has brought about the importance of science and technology in our society. From the creations of rapid test kits to the innovation of vaccines, Science has played a crucial role in keeping our health and environment intact. With little to no programs and funds available for our scientists, they are left to scavenge their own resources to conduct experiments and researches that may introduce to us relevant discoveries that may elevate the Philippine economy and academics. Development does not merely happen in terms of economic achievement but rather is obtained through holistic growth in all sectors of the country. With this, the Philippine Scientists Support Act will allow local scientists to continue their profession and foster their talent through research and by providing comprehensive support. This may cover from scientific funds, use of facilities, incentives for new innovations, support in international conferences and more that would help the community thrive and promote national development.

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An Act Amending RA 7394 The Consumer Act of the Philippines to include influencer marketing

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An Act Amending RA 7394 The Consumer Act of the Philippines to include influencer marketing

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The fundamental basis of consumer protection is the right to accurate information and safeguarding individuals against unfair, unconscionable, and deceptive sales practices. In light of the rise of social media marketing and influencers,  a growing number of consumers are becoming susceptible to the strategies employed in their advertising and marketing endeavors. Despite being one of the largest players in the marketing industry, influencers are left unregulated and held to no legal standards when it comes to their sponsorships or brand deals. The lack of existing laws governing their transactions with brands leaves consumers vulnerable to any possible dishonesty or false advertising as their is no legal accountability. This amendment to the existing to the Consumer Act will include influencers as advertisers to promote honesty in social media marketing.

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#SexWorkisWork - Decriminalize Sex Work!

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#SexWorkisWork - Decriminalize Sex Work!

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During my undergraduate years, I have advocated (and is continuously advocating) for the legalization of sex work to provide sex workers with the legal protections and healthcare access they need. During my advocacy work in undergrad, I had the opportunity to have a discourse with sex workers, many of whom expressed a strong desire for their work to be acknowledged and respected. This legal change would not only safeguard their rights but also promote a more just and compassionate understanding of sex work in our society.

Sex work is a profession that has long been surrounded by stigma and misconceptions, leading to significant challenges for those who choose it as their means of livelihood. Despite the diversity and reality of the profession, it is often not recognized as legitimate work. This lack of recognition means that sex workers do not enjoy the same rights and protections afforded to workers in other industries. They are often denied access to basic healthcare, face significant legal and social discrimination, and are more vulnerable to exploitation, abuse, and unsafe working conditions.

Indeed, legalizing sex work would be a crucial step in ensuring that sex workers are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve. It would provide them with legal protections, ensuring their safety and well-being. Access to proper healthcare would also become a reality, allowing for regular medical check-ups and support services that are currently out of reach for many. Moreover, legal recognition would help to dismantle harmful stereotypes and reduce the stigma associated with the profession.

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The Philippines is dominated by the Catholic religion, which is known for believing that marriage can only exist between a man and a woman. Despite the progressiveness our society has achieved to this day, our country may not yet be prepared to expand the recognition of marital unions regardless of gender.

But my question is, when will we be ready? Changes don’t come on their own; legislative efforts to uphold equal rights and non-discrimination help promote greater social acceptance and inclusion. Much like the SOGIE bill, the mere presence of a bill that legalizes same-sex marriage will be a game-changer to our society. Furthermore, a civil marriage is a legal contract and must be exclusive from religious definitions. Thus, as a member of Congress, my first legislative act would be the legalization of same-sex marriage.

Proposal: allowing same-sex couples to obtain marriage license through a civil wedding.

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Abolishment of the Forgiveness Clause in the Rape Law

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Abolishment of the Forgiveness Clause in the Rape Law

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As of this writing, the rape law of the Philippines, or Republic Act No. 8353, under Article 266-C. Effect of Pardon, states that "The subsequent valid marriage between the offended party shall extinguish the criminal action or the penalty imposed." This clause could also be called the "forgiveness clause". This is because this clause pardons the rapist as long as they marry their victim. As such, this encourages rapists to coerce or force their victims into marriages to avoid prosecution. Having such a clause could further hurt and traumatize the victim as they may face continued harassment from their rapist and their family.

This clause is tied to the archaic belief that a person, especially a woman, must be pure when going into marriage. When such an assault is done against them, it brings them shame and judgement from society. It is believed that marriage would preserve the dignity of the victim and their family. However, this is far from reality as it only allows the criminal to continue to harass the victim and escape punishment.

According to Johnson (2021), only twenty countries still have this clause. Last 2023, Rep. JC M. Abalos II filed the House Bill (HB) 9083 or “An Act Protecting Rape Victims Against Coerced Marriage”. In addition to repealing the “forgiveness clause”, it also hopes to add rape as a valid basis for annulment (De Layola, 2023).

Sources:

De Layola, Z. (2023). "Bill protecting rape victims vs. coerced marriage filed". Philippine News Agency. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1209440

Johnson, S. (2021). "‘Marry your rapist’ laws in 20 countries still allow perpetrators to escape justice". The Guardian. https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2021/apr/14/marry-your-rapist-laws-in-20-countries-still-allow-perpetrators-to-escape-justice

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SOGIE Bill is a propose legislation in hopes of protecting individuals from discrimination based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression. This is crucial to the Philippines, where discrimination against members of the LGBTQ+ has been existent for the time being.

Essentially, the bill seeks to address inequalities faced by the aforesaid members by promoting inclusivity and opportunities in almost, if not all, aspects of life, i.e. employment and education.

Unfortunately, despite attempts to turn this into a bill, it has faced opposition and has not yet been enacted. Thus, discourse and healthy debates are paramount for the bill to be accepted by the Filipino people.

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While this bill is currently being discussed in the halls of Congress, it still fails to be passed and is considered to be the oldest bill --- being introduced in the 14th Congress until now.

This law would basically have the same provisions and statutes like the one in Congress. But the an additional provision would be the consideration of sexual characteristics. As the world is changing, we are faced with more complexities of our sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and sexual characteristics. As such, this law would protect and uphold the rights of people who do not fit in the hetero-normative spheres.

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It legalizes the divorce in the Philippines. Given the magnitude of marital issues and affairs within the Philippines, I have decided to craft my proposals by amending some of the provisions of the current Divorce Bill presented in the Senate. As such, the processing of a divorce petition starts with the eligibility of spouses - one of the parties should be a Filipino citizen, domiciled in the Philippines at the time of filing, and should possess a substantial connection with the Philippines. Likewise, there needs to be a reason for filing a divorce, and the filing can come from either both or only one of the spouses. A petition can only be deemed valid after a year of marriage unless the case has exceptional circumstances or hardship to the petitioner.

In accordance with the Family Code of the Philippines, here are the amended grounds for absolute divorce:

1. Physical, mental, and emotional abuse and violence, directly and indirectly against the petitioner, a common child, or a child of a petitioner;

2. Attempts of homophobic violence, sexual abuse, sexual assault, sexual harassment, and rape against the petitioner, a common child, or a child of a petitioner;

3. Forcing the petitioner to change a religious belief or political affiliation through the use of physical violence or moral pressure;

4. One of the spouses is an alcoholic, is addicted to drugs, is a gambler, or has other vices that are difficult to cure;

5. An attempt of the respondent to corrupt or induce the petitioner, a common child, or a child of a petitioner to engage in prostitution, connivance, or any form of sex work;

6. Final judgment sentencing the respondent to imprisonment of more than two (2) years, even if pardoned, unless the crime committed is considered grave;

7. The homosexuality of the respondent;

8. Respondent contracting a bigamous relationship inside or outside the Philippines;

9. Infidelity, perversion, or having an illegitimate child while married, unless there’s a mutual

agreement between spouses, or a child outside the body, or when a child was conceived and born

due to rape;

10. An attempt by the respondent against the life, liberty, physical, moral, and sexual liberty of the

petitioner, a common child, or a child of a petitioner;

11. Abandonment of respondent without a known cause for more than one (1) year;

12. Manifestation of obsessive behavior towards the petitioner, a common child, or a child of a

petitioner

There is no need for spouses to be legally separated before filing a divorce petition. However, in

accordance with maintaining the sanctity, solidarity, and development of spouses’ welfare, the proper court shall not begin the trial of a petition for absolute divorce before the expiration of a six-month cooling-off period following the filing of the petition, during which the court shall make all reasonable efforts to reunite and reconcile the parties, except on the grounds outlined in summary judicial

proceedings. Nonetheless, the requirement of the cooling-off period shall not apply in cases that involve acts of abuse, violence, assault.

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This act aims to legalize divorce in the Philippines. The Philippines is one of the only two countries in the world, besides the Vatican that does not allow divorce.

While this bill is currently being considered in Congress, in the case it does not pass, I as a legislator would propose this act again.

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An Act Preventing the Rampant Internet Fraud.

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An Act Preventing the Rampant Internet Fraud.

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In our increasingly modern world, which heavily relies on technology, "cashless" transactions have become commonplace, whether conducted through online e-commerce platforms or in physical stores. Once considered unconventional, online transactions became a significant part of the "new normal" during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, as it helped limit the spread of the virus through physical cash.

However, this shift has also given rise to new forms of theft and fraud, as individuals have found ways to exploit online financial systems. "Internet consumer deception," also known as "Internet fraud," is defined by Grazioli and Jarvenpaa as the malicious manipulation of information presented online to induce consumers to act in ways that unfairly benefit the provider of the manipulated information (Grazioli & Jarvenpaa, 2000).

A survey conducted in the Philippines during the fourth quarter of 2023 revealed that over 50% of respondents had experienced internet fraud through phishing attacks (Balita, 2024). These attacks involve fraudulent websites designed to mimic legitimate ones, tricking victims into entering their personal data. Fraudsters then use this information to access and withdraw funds from the victims' accounts.

To address this issue, I propose the following measures to combat rampant internet fraud:

1. Enhance Cybersecurity Measures: Implement stricter security protocols for all e- money and banking applications. This includes requiring multi-factor authentication and regular software updates for applications such as GCash, PayMaya, BPI Online, BDO Online, UnionBank Online, and others.

2. Utilize Blockchain Technology: Adopt blockchain technology to secure transactions and reduce the risk of fraud.

3. Increase Public Awareness: Educate the Filipino population about internet fraud through educational talks organized by Local Government Units and incorporate safe cybersecurity practices into the curricula of grade schools, high schools, and undergraduate programs.

These initiatives aim to strengthen defenses against internet fraud and ensure a safer online environment for all users.

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An Act Preventing the Rampant Internet Fraud

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An Act Preventing the Rampant Internet Fraud

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In our increasingly modern world, which heavily relies on technology, "cashless" transactions have become commonplace, whether conducted through online e-commerce platforms or in physical stores. Once considered unconventional, online transactions became a significant part of the "new normal" during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, as it helped limit the spread of the virus through physical cash.

However, this shift has also given rise to new forms of theft and fraud, as individuals have found ways to exploit online financial systems. "Internet consumer deception," also known as "Internet fraud," is defined by Grazioli and Jarvenpaa as the malicious manipulation of information presented online to induce consumers to act in ways that unfairly benefit the provider of the manipulated information (Grazioli & Jarvenpaa, 2000).

A survey conducted in the Philippines during the fourth quarter of 2023 revealed that over 50% of respondents had experienced internet fraud through phishing attacks (Balita, 2024). These attacks involve fraudulent websites designed to mimic legitimate ones, tricking victims into entering their personal data. Fraudsters then use this information to access and withdraw funds from the victims' accounts.

To address this issue, I propose the following measures to combat rampant internet fraud:

1. Enhance Cybersecurity Measures: Implement stricter security protocols for all e- money and banking applications. This includes requiring multi-factor authentication and regular software updates for applications such as GCash, PayMaya, BPI Online, BDO Online, UnionBank Online, and others.

2. Utilize Blockchain Technology: Adopt blockchain technology to secure transactions and reduce the risk of fraud.

3. Increase Public Awareness: Educate the Filipino population about internet fraud through educational talks organized by Local Government Units and incorporate safe cybersecurity practices into the curricula of grade schools, high schools, and undergraduate programs.

These initiatives aim to strengthen defenses against internet fraud and ensure a safer online environment for all users.

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There are certain inequalities within our society regarding the consumption products marketed to women that are very similar to the ones marketed to men. The products that are marketed as "regular" are those for the male consumption, while they have to market "special" products for female consumption and cost way more than the usual prices (i.e., razor blades, creams, abdominal medicines, etc.).

Thus, I would like to abolish this and promote for an equal market between both sexes, also to abolish certain stigmas between male and female products.

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An Act Requiring Voters Education as part of the Education Curriculum of the Philippines

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An Act Requiring Voters Education as part of the Education Curriculum of the Philippines

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Voters hold great power. Educating and Strengthening our voting public should start in school.

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An act to increase the minimum sidewalk width in the Philippines

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An act to increase the minimum sidewalk width in the Philippines

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I would like to enact the law the minimum width of the sidewalks in the Philippines would increase. Under Department Order 037, series of 2009, the minimum width of the sidewalk stands at 1.2m. In developing roadworks and highways of possible new cities or developments, I would like to increase that requirements to 3m. This would promote people to walk around cities and to be less dependent on cars even for short distances. This way, Filipinos could experience and feel safe from transportation knowing that the sidewalks are large. This also allows for people to interact and socialize knowing that there are bigger public spaces to walk, jog, and exercise in.

In my opinion the current sidewalks of 1.2m is just too narrow and when walking around, I find that I always set foot in incoming traffic or perhaps the bicycle lane. Promoting this would improve the mobility of people in the Philippines and more important improve the health of Filipinos especially knowing that they could walk on foot.

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An Act to expedite the process of law suits within the Philippines

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An Act to expedite the process of law suits within the Philippines

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I strongly believe that there is an excess of bureaucracy involved with lawsuits in the Philippines, and that lawsuits lasting more than 5 or 10 years before being settled is detrimental to the people's behavior and belief towards the legal system. By then, the party seeking remedy may have already had their lives significantly negatively affected by the case with which they filed a lawsuit for, and the justice system served to only add unto their suffering, both financially and mentally through the funds needed and the stress caused by being involved in a lawsuit.

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I took a lot of focus on gender issues when I chose Sociology as my undergraduate program. In an attempt to explain this as concisely as possible: Gender minorities (women, the LGBT+ community, etc.) are systemically oppressed; hence, they face a disproportionate amount of struggle in the social, political, and economic dimensions of life. Focusing on the latter dimensions, I believe that the law must be responsive to these existing inequalities and alleviate them as much it is possible.

This proposal is inspired by a project that one of my organizations did last year. Essentially, menstrual products were placed in campus bathrooms—free of charge.

That being said, this act seeks to promote access to health and hygiene by alleviating barriers to essential products—free menstrual products. In one of my past gender classes, I learned about the Gender and Development (GAD) budget policy, also known as The Women's Budget, to fund resources that support women's empowerment—particularly those in poverty. I also recall the Magna Carta of Women reinforcing this budget policy. The Act may find financial support in this budget policy.

I cannot yet provide a concrete system for the actual distribution of the products as well as a specific list of it (menstrual pads, tampons, etc.) as I believe the necessary research and surveying must be done before making such decisions. This way, the Act may be closer to serving the needs of the women that it targets.

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This is something that is very prevalent in our country. I believe that political dynasties is what causes corruption in our country given that it deviates from every individual's right to a fair election.

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AN ACT TO ENHANCE LOCAL AGRICULTURAL SUSTAINABILITY AND LESSENING AGRICULTURAL IMPORTS.

In the first quarter of 2024, the Philippines' agricultural imports were valued at USD 4.3 billion, accounting for 14.9% of the country's total imports (PSA, 2024). Of this, USD 272.48 million was attributed to imports of animals and vegetable products. Additionally, the Philippines is projected to import 4.1 Million Metric Tons (MMT) of rice in 2024 -- making the country the top rice importer globally.

Despite being an agricultural country, the Philippines faces challenges in local agricultural sustainability. One significant issue is that imported agricultural products are often cheaper than locally produced goods, partly due to high transportation costs. These costs can make locally produced items less competitive in the market.

The Agricultural Transportation Act of 2024 aims to address these issues by subsidizing the transportation costs of agricultural products from farms to local markets. This will help reduce the financial burden on farmers and make locally produced goods more competitive with imported goods.

1. Transportation Subsidies:

Local Government Units (LGUs) will be responsible for covering the transportation expenses of farmers' agricultural produce to their local markets. This will be included in their annual budgets.

LGUs will coordinate with farmers to streamline the transportation process and ensure the delivery of produce.

2. Financial Support for Farmers:

By subsidizing transportation costs, farmers will have more resources to invest in their operations.

The reduced transportation costs will enhance the competitiveness of local produce by lowering prices in local markets.

3. Market Competitiveness:

With the reduction of transportation cost, locally produced agricultural produce will be more affordable and will be able to compete with the prices of imported produce.

This increase in competition will likely entail a higher demand for local produce which would benefit farmers and foster agricultural sustainability.

4. Economic Benefits:

The Act is expected to contribute to a more sustainable agricultural sector by reducing dependency on imported goods.

Eliminating transportation cost will help stabilize local market prices and support economic growth through increased local production.

5. Implementation:

LGUs will receive guidance with managing and allocating funds for the agricultural transportation from an overseeing body.

Regular monitoring and evaluation will be conducted to ensure the effective use of subsidies and assess the impact on local markets.

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An Act Establishing a proper work life balance

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An Act Establishing a proper work life balance

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With the Philippines ranking 59th out of 60 countries in the Global Work-Life Balance index of 2024, I believe now would be the time to implement an act that would ensure the well-being of employees through the assurance that they get to live as much as they work. In particular, this act would cover:

Establishing limits on companies' ability to delegate work after work hours.

Establishing limits on the amount of work being given to an employee.

Establishing a more lenient and lengthy PTO's for employees.

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An Act that Reforms the Licensing of Aircraft Pilots in the Philippines

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An Act that Reforms the Licensing of Aircraft Pilots in the Philippines

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The current licensing system imposed by the Civil Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) adopts the type rating system which is cumbersome to pilots who want to expand their competencies in operating various aircrafts. These regulations restrict the types of aircrafts that pilots can operate and imposes excessive investment of time and financial resources, when attaining one's Commercial Pilot License is already so expensive. Furthermore, CAAP severely limits the job opportunities that its pilots can seize by requiring different training and certification for similar aircrafts.

These are some CAAP licensing system reforms that I would propose to help alleviate the inefficiencies facing the livelihood of Filipino aircraft pilots:

1.  Remove the type rating system for General Aviation Aircraft and instead implement a class rating system, following that of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Type Rating Example: Let’s say you own a car, a Hyundai Accent. Every time you buy another car, you'll need to have the LTO train and certify you again to use an Elantra and again for a Santa Fe. Likewise it's a different training and certification if you decide to get a Honda, a Ford, or a Toyota.

The class rating system is similar to our current driver licensing system where one is authorized to operate a class of automobiles instead of individual models.

2. Following this, an endorsement from an instructor will be suitable and valid for taking up an additional endorsement such as a complex/high-performance aircraft.

3. Licenses will not expire, but medical certificates will. Commercial/Private Pilot licenses shouldn't expire but rather medical certificates be renewed to exercise the Pilot-in-Command privileges. If not renewed, only Second-in-Command hours or dual hours will be exercised from said license holder.

4. Medical certificates upon expiry should not expire but get downgraded. For example, you hold a commercial license and hold a class 1 medical certificate; upon expiry of class 1, it should just be downgraded to a medical class 2. However, limitations on privileges should be enforced. This includes the limitation of exercising pilot privileges and limitation to not carry passengers.

5. Upon renewal of medical certificate, holder will be allowed to exercise Commercial Pilot License (CPL) privileges.

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An Act to amend the Philippine Immigration Law and Processes

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An Act to amend the Philippine Immigration Law and Processes

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From 3,300 unwanted aliens barred from entering the Philippines to a massive influx of Chinese students in provinces last 2023, The rising case of illegal immigration in the country is at an all time high.

This legislation seeks to revisit and revise salient laws and also to modify the immigration process to address the rising problem of illegal immigration and keep up globally in modernizing the whole procedure.

These are some of the measures I would like to propose:

1. Lower the allowed “quota immigrants” per year

2. Observation of deep scrutinization of applicants and their visa types

3. Stricter and heavier fines and penalties for people who violate or try to circumvent the law and those who aid in the act.

4. Strict monitoring of immigrants and visitors with regards to the period of their visa while in the Philippines

5. Funding of Border Control Operations - to train and update the current process they have

6. Modernization of the Immigration process - funding the government to acquire advance technologies

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An Act Amending RA 10066 or the National Cultural Heritage Act and Expanding the Scope of Sites Under its Protection 

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An Act Amending RA 10066 or the National Cultural Heritage Act and Expanding the Scope of Sites Under its Protection 

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RA 10066 was a reactive piece of legislature that was enacted only in response to the demolition of cultural heritage sites such as the Manila Jai Alai Building or the destruction of the Huluga archeological site. It has enabled the Philippines to be conservative and protective of its historical markers, and allowed its people to be appreciative of such. The criteria for classifying cultural heritage has been stringent (as it must be), however, the community component lacking. The involvement of the local community in defining these heritage sites must be at the foreground. And so, this bill I propose makes the application process for classifying cultural property and heritage sites easier and more accessible to the local community. This way, even if a local government unit does not act upon its duty to register presumed important cultural property, residents, the community that find such property significant to them may push forward with the procedure themselves directly.

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A Law to amend taxation percentages, focusing on the 1%

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A Law to amend taxation percentages, focusing on the 1%

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It's no secret that a living wage barely puts food on the table nowadays. Aside from the rising prices of food and necessities, availing government-endorsed aid is sometimes like threading a needle. The average Filipino is left to fend for themself and their families, expecting little to no assistance from the Government that promises much, in exchange for taxes.

This much is true: Taxation is a difficult subject. It is confusing to accomplish without the proper hired assistance, and sometimes makes or breaks a business. If taxation wasn't as difficult as it is, there would be no need to have exams licensing our Accountants.

But the fact of the matter is that the average Filipino does not have a hired accountant (unless their CPA niece or nephew is there to help them out!). Many small businesses (carrinderias, bakeries, car washes) die out if they attempt to correctly register their businesses to the BIR because of the many hoops of certifications to not only jump through but also pay for. Real Filipino dreams are crushed beneath the monoliths that are SM and American brands that make their way into our economies, profiting off our people's money. The small business owner never had a chance.

Don't get me wrong, the National Treasury cannot be left without. But if I were able, I would amend the current Taxation schemes we have to: relax requirements for small businesses, and strictly enforce (and adjust) requirements to the monoliths in the game. There should be no reason for us to enforce the same rules in this casino-of-life to both the players who are on their last lifeline, and the players with more lifelines than any of us can finish counting.

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An act that would require the incorporating sustainable green spaces in urban cities and infrastructures alike

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An act that would require the incorporating sustainable green spaces in urban cities and infrastructures alike

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This legislation would be the similar to the Existing Building legislation enacted in 2012 in Singapore that would focus on reducing carbon foot print and energy consumption as well as incorporating a certain percent of green lands in infrastructure based on the buildings total area.

EB Legislation main goals:

1) Minimum Green Mark1 Certified standard for buildings with gross floor area of at least 15,000 m2

2) Three-yearly energy audit on building cooling system for buildings with gross floor area of at least 15,000 m2

3) Annual mandatory submission of building information and energy consumption data for all commercial buildings

Other methods in incorporating green spaces in urban cities are through green roofs, urban agriculture, vertical gardens and alike. Having more plants in car and people congested areas help regulate temperature and air quality. Additionally, it can make places more aesthetically pleasing when executed well!

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Cancer remains a significant health burden in the Philippines, with a high incidence rate and substantial mortality. The cost of cancer treatment is often prohibitively expensive, making it challenging for economically disadvantaged individuals to access necessary care. Recognizing this, the Philippine government has enacted the National Integrated Cancer Control Act (NICCA) or Republic Act No. 11215 to improve cancer care and support for all Filipinos, especially the poor.

However, despite these initiatives, several gaps remain in ensuring that all cancer patients, especially those from remote or underserved areas, can access the necessary care and financial support. These gaps include bureaucratic complexities, limited geographical coverage, and varying levels of infrastructure and resource availability.

Expansion of Services: Increase the number of hospitals and healthcare facilities equipped to provide cancer care services under the Cancer Assistance Fund.

Mobile Cancer Clinics: Establish mobile clinics to provide screening, diagnosis, and treatment in remote areas.

Simplified Application Process: Streamline the documentation and application process for accessing the Cancer Assistance Fund, including digital submission options and reduced paperwork requirements.

This act can address the existing gaps in cancer care accessibility, making it more inclusive and effective for all, particularly the economically disadvantaged.

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As workers are desperate to ensure any source of livelihood, despotic employers have take advantage of this by hiring workers on contractual terms of employment. As contractual workers, they are not entitled to the benefits of a regular employee, like a minimum wage. However, a minimum wage had been proven to be insufficient in meeting the daily needs of an individual, or much more an entire family. Such is the reason for a living wage. Theoretically, a living wage is an amount that can afford the worker better access to daily needs and extra savings. The implementation of such would greatly benefit millions of Filipinos.

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An act that would empower women's sports and athletes

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An act that would empower women's sports and athletes

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As we enter the 2020s, women's sports has grown to exponential heights, going past the shadow of being secondary to their male counterparts.

With the huge success of local athletes such as Hidilyn Diaz and Nesthy Petecio, I think it's time to formally create an institution that would empower the next generation of female Filipino athletes. I believe that our young Filipinas have potential to reach great heights internationally, but this may only happen if we develop our grassroots program.

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An Act Implementing  Media Literacy Lessons in High School

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An Act Implementing  Media Literacy Lessons in High School

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With the prevalence of fake news in our country lessons prioritizing discernment and analysis the news is important. Media literacy would be integrated to an English subject from grade 9 all the way to grade 12 The lessons will be structured in a way where core skills will be taught and improved each year.

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Free Complete Meals for Primary to High School Students.

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Free Complete Meals for Primary to High School Students.

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This law would provide public school students under primary to secondary education free and healthy breakfast, lunch, and afternoon snacks every school year. The rationale behind this law is to help combat malnutrition, as nutrition is an important component of children's growth and development. It would also help alleviate another barrier for underprivileged students by ensuring they have the proper sustenance they need to go to school and focus on their studies.

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Talent Development for Underprivileged Youth Act

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Talent Development for Underprivileged Youth Act

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Primary Objective: Support talented children with limited resources to excel in sports and enhance the country’s nationalism through sports.

The Act establishes a Talent Support Fund for financial assistance with training, equipment, and resources. It offers scholarships, provides necessary equipment, access to facilities, and mentorship.

It also includes building and upgrading sports facilities, such as stadiums and training centers, to improve training environments and promote sports nationwide.

Community and school programs will identify and support talented youth through local training and workshops. The Act will boost athletes’ marketability by increasing media exposure and promotional activities, enhancing visibility and attracting sponsorships.

Overall, the Act aims to develop future sports champions from underprivileged backgrounds and strengthen the Philippines' national pride in sports. The Act also hopes to improve on the status quo as seen in the on-going Paris Olympics.

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Coming from a province that's agricultural and where most people have farming as their main source of income, I would like to have a law that supported our local farmers. As much as there are programs that give subsidy to farmers, I don't believe that should be an end all be all. I think there should be a sustainable long-term plan of action that addresses main issues experienced by our farmers.

1. The Rice Tariffication Law

Instead of prioritizing the importation of rice, we should find a way to increase the level or quality of locally produced crops. I've seen people, whose main crop is Rice, stop planting rice and switch to other crops to adapt to the changing times. I worry that if this continues we might stop producing rice and will have to solely rely on the importation of such.

2. Increasing and incentivizing farmers to learn about modern agricultural techniques. Most children who have parents as farmers don't venture out into agricultural because of the notion "walang pera sa pagsasaka". Stoping the stigmatization of these jobs will hopefully encourage younger generations that farming or becoming a farmer is a viable career.

3. Disaster-preparedness and relief.

When planting crops farmers face multiple issues. One, the drought in the summer. Two, the heavy rains when typhoon season comes. Lastly, other external factors (pests, problems with distribution, etc). I think there should be a system in place that prioritizes them and their lands in order to properly execute a long-term sustainable plan.

4. Equipping agricultural LGU's with farming equipment that can be used and borrowed by farmers. This will also include mandatory training to handle the machinery or hiring an expert to operate said machinery.

5. Strictly verifying or supervising local (may it be the provincial or the municipality) programs to strictly adhere and comply with monitoring that said programs.

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An Act that bans convicted criminals from running in office

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An Act that bans convicted criminals from running in office

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The Philippines has a history of keeping convicted politicians in power. Graft, fraud, embezzlement, extortion, racketeering, and the lack of transparency are just some of the examples of the charges certain politicians have, while still being in power and voted by the Filipino people. This act can help prevent the lack of action and the abuse of power politicians have while being seated in a place of power.

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Strengthening Elementary and High Schools in underdeveloped provinces of the Philippines

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Strengthening Elementary and High Schools in underdeveloped provinces of the Philippines

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This bill is aimed to support public and private schools in far out provinces. It will improve the quality of education in provinces and the facilities.

Potential Parts of the Act are:

1. Meticulous Observation and Recommendation of respective School Accreditation Authorities

2. Government aided exchange programs

1. Teachers and School Administrative Personnel

2. Students

3. Fund for Provincial Schools

1. Teacher’s Fund

2. Facilities

3. Equipment

4. Provincial School Fairs

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Mandating PWD and Pregnant-Women Friendly Infrastructure in Each City. 

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Mandating PWD and Pregnant-Women Friendly Infrastructure in Each City. 

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With its narrow pavements and automobile-centered city design, Manila is not pedestrian friendly to begin with already. So only imagine what the PWDs and pregnant ladies have to go through. One may argue, "Oh if they're disabled/pregnant why are they walking on the streets they should know that it's best for them to just take the train/car/bus/trike." I disagree, a citizen should be able to safely and securely walk around the city that they live in at any time, it is an essential component to a good standard of living. Inclusive city infrastructure will give our PWDs and pregnant women a sense of independence knowing that even in the state they are in, if they have or want to, they can walk around the city and not feel so helpless.

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An act amending the Data Privacy Act of 2012

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An act amending the Data Privacy Act of 2012

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With the fast-paced modern world, advancements in technology and the rise of social media became a trend. Thus, posting content on social media became a career/ occupation. Because there are several social media platforms that allows everyone to post pictures and videos, people can post any content they want. These posts can be accessed by anyone on the internet. Consequently, there have been numerous incidents wherein people post videos and pictures of random people’s faces without their consent and posting it for “content”. The Data Privacy Act must have a specific provision that focuses on “content creation” and its repercussions. Consent of those who are included in a content must be present and those who fail to do so must be penalized. With this act, people will be reminded yet again on how to be mindful and cautious in posting and filming private people or events.

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An Act that encourages Environmental Consciousness and Accountability.

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An Act that encourages Environmental Consciousness and Accountability.

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Climate change drastically affects the Philippines and its citizens, increasing the country’s vulnerability to natural disasters, affecting communities and their livelihoods, and threatening biodiversity.

I would propose the following legislative measures:

1. Each LGU shall establish an office tasked to secure information and data about the environmental activities in their area.

2. To require higher taxes for businesses that make use of environmentally detrimental chemicals, materials, or substances.

3. To mandate government agencies such as the Department of Education and other related stakeholders to teach environmental consciousness and sustainability at all levels.

Majority of the environmental issues in our current climate stem from irresponsible human activities. It is the result of apathy and ignorance, as well as the lack of effective strategies of current policies.

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An Act that champions the cultivation of grassroots Sports Programs in provinces

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An Act that champions the cultivation of grassroots Sports Programs in provinces

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I know that there are recent passed laws that somewhat encompass this idea (such as Republic Act Nos. 11214 and 11470), however, I believe that further emphasizing the grassroots programs in provinces around the Philippines will come a long way in our aspirations to become one of the top performing countries in the sporting world.

I do not think that there is much emphasis in identifying talented youth in different areas around the country right now. Usually, it's a "they'll come to us" basis or we just see them when they are in high-school/college/even at the professional level. I believe that if we set up channels nationwide that can spot potential athletes at an early age, then we can easily enforce the provisions found in RA 11214 and 11470.

This style of investment in youth has been tried and tested all over the globe, wherein perennial sporting powerhouse like the US, like China get an influx of amazing athletes. But, before they become the stars of today, they were honed and put into a system that champions their growth as athletes.

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An act ensuring schools encourage a healthier lifestyle for children

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An act ensuring schools encourage a healthier lifestyle for children

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Obesity and unhealthy habits has been growing in the world today. Due to easy access with technology, each individuals social and physical states are often neglected. It can be said that these neglect can increase the chances of both physical and mental disorders. I propose that we start to educate and build habits at a very young age. It should start in schools where they are taught habits and the right actions that they can apply outside the school. Understanding what they can do to prevent this gives them the fighting chance of the lingering and easily addictive vices that are prevalent today.

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An Act Amending the rules for Government Officials and Employees

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An Act Amending the rules for Government Officials and Employees

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Think about it, the highest government position only needs to know how to read and write in order to be able to run for that position, but when we look for a work we need to have a degree and a long list of requirements. This act would ensure a harder requirement for those who wants to be in government, be it an official or an employee. Aside from this, this would ensure that they are indeed qualified and clear of all charges.

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An Act Legalizing Safe Abortion in the Philippines

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An Act Legalizing Safe Abortion in the Philippines

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Despite the groundbreaking passing of the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health Act (RPRHA) in 2012, the realm of reproductive health remains a contentious and struggle-laden ground for many young Filipino women today. The 2021 Young Adult Fertility & Sexuality Survey reports that 19% of young women aged 15 to 24 years old have began childbearing while 17% have already had a live birth. 14.6% of young women have had unwanted pregnancies with 6% admitting to having resorted to methods of abortion. The 2013 Guttmacher Institute Research Brief traces these outcomes to the the fact that abortion remains illegal and highly stigmatized in the country, pushing women to have abortions in unsanitary conditions utilizing outdated practices thus leading to significant risks and rising mortality rates for Filipino women, specifically poor women, young women, and rural women.

As such, I believe it to be high time that a law legalizing abortion be passed in the country in order to properly deal with such horrid realities of poverty, poor health, suffering, stigma, and discrimination. Naturally, besides decriminalizing the very act of abortion to allow women to claim full reproductive autonomy , it must also provide mechanisms for seeking support prior to abortion, improving post-abortive care, and penalizing the discriminatory behavior and denial of service by health providers.

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Amending the Family Code of the Philippines

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Amending the Family Code of the Philippines

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Amending the Family Code of the Philippines is crucial for several reasons. It is important to recognize the diverse family structures that exist today. The traditional definition of family is evolving, and the law must reflect the reality of single-parent families, extended families, and families formed by unmarried couples. Second, strengthening provisions to protect children's rights is essential. This includes ensuring their welfare, education, and protection from abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

Additionally, addressing gender biases and promoting equality between men and women in marital relationships, parental responsibilities, and property rights is necessary for achieving gender equality. The Family Code should also provide clearer guidelines on marriage validity, grounds for annulment, and legal separation, as well as streamline divorce processes to reduce legal ambiguities and burdens on couples.

Protecting the elderly's rights and welfare is another important aspect, ensuring they receive appropriate care and support. The recognition of same-sex unions and the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals in family law is crucial for ensuring that all citizens are treated equally under the law. Moreover, updating laws on inheritance and property distribution can ensure fair treatment and protect the rights of all family members, including those in non-traditional family setups.

These reasons of amending the Family Code to ensure it is inclusive, fair, and reflective of contemporary societal values.

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An Act in Regulating the Emergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Specifically Deepfake AI 

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An Act in Regulating the Emergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Specifically Deepfake AI 

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Deepfake AI is wherein it uses a program that stems from machine learning. It studies a person's facial features, their movement, and way of speaking. A lot people are being victimized with Deepfake AIs, having their identities taken and placed into another. For example, their recognizable voices being used to scam people or their faces being used to replace another person to fake their identities.

While Deepfake AI may help in certain aspects like how it assists in making videos or in creating pictures a lot easier, non-regulation of it would certainly lead a lot of people into taking advantage of it and harming others. Thus, a law being passed in regards to this would surely protect people's identities and would prevent further crimes from ensuing.

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An Act Establishing A Special EJK Tribunal Punishing the Perpetrators of the "War-On-Drugs" Campaign

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An Act Establishing A Special EJK Tribunal Punishing the Perpetrators of the "War-On-Drugs" Campaign

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The "War on Drugs" campaign conducted by Former President Rodrigo Duterte is estimated to have caused over 30,000 civilian casualties through the conduct of over 200,000 illegal operations. Thousands more were subjected to illegal arrests, ultimately affecting millions of poor Filipino families. The effects of this brutal campaign are far-reaching, yet its perpetrators remain seated in positions of power, and its victims left without reprieve. Crucially, Former President Rodrigo Duterte remains unpunished for the bloody campaign that he waged against this nation.

This law endeavors to facilitate true communal healing by providing for the following:

1. The establishment of A Special Tribunal tasked with the sole goal of handling cases involving Extrajudicial Killings and other crimes committed under the "War on Drugs" campaign.

2. A Special Investigation Group tasked with uncovering the systemic involvement of government officials, government agencies, and private militias and "hitmen" that conducted the "War on Drugs" campaign.

3. A special fund allocated towards the prosecution of Former President Rodrigo Duterte and his cohorts.

4. The establishment of a special fund that shall be given to victims of the "War on Drugs" campaign and their families.

5. Foster cooperation with international organizations and groups that are individually conducting their investigations into the "War on Drugs" campaign.

This law shall be patterned after laws in other jurisdictions, such as The Statute of the Iraqi Special Tribunal which put to trial deposed dictator Saddam Hussein, and international laws, such as the London Agreement creating the International Military Tribunal which put to trial several Nazi war criminals.

Much like the

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To increase funding for specialty crops

To develop new markets for farmers

Enhance support for local farmers in food/crops that we are in a comparative advantage of

Strengthen funding for conservation efforts and climate resilience [for when farmers face bad weather changes]

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An act to protect and grow the Philippines' history and culture

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An act to protect and grow the Philippines' history and culture

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When traveling to historically-rich places, like Japan, South Korea, China, USA, Spain, etc., you would see how well their history is preserved. May it be architectural, environmental, or preserved in a museum, these countries take care of their history for future generations to come.

It is sad to see our history slowly being erased. If I were to sit in Congress, I would propose the banning of building of infrastructures on natural formations. An example is the building of a resort in the Chocolate Hills in Bohol. This resort completely ruined the natural attraction and was built with no concern whatsoever to what they would forever damage. This was a completely unnecessary move and just made the place look tacky. We should do more in preserving our natural landmarks so that they would live on for years to come.

The baybayin was once our way of writing back in the day, but now only a handful of people can understand and write in this form. This writing system should once again be implemented in our school's curriculum.

There is a mini-series on Netflix that showcases Korea's Food and how they make it like it was the ancient times. We should make shows that showcases how our food is made and how they use to make it during the olden days. There are still some restaurants out there that prepare Filipino dishes the traditional way.

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An Act that Provides Guaranteed Employment

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An Act that Provides Guaranteed Employment

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The idea behind this act is to be able to provide guaranteed employment for everyone. Poverty is a global issue, with a lot of people not even having a job to sustain themselves, where a lot of people are even homeless. In this Act, the goal is to provide all people who are currently unemployed to have guaranteed employment even without too much credentials like not having to be a High School graduate.

When it comes to poverty, people without a job would probably want one so that they could sustain themselves, where I think it would also be in the interest of our country to take their needs into consideration. Rather than letting them be simply left unemployed and do nothing for our country, why not provide them with employment under the government so that they could also contribute to our economic development.

So in this Act, what I envision is the government creating various government sectors or organizations catered to an economic area with the goal of providing employment. Example is having a Farming sector, where government could automatically hire a person who wants to have employment to work as farmer under the government where he would be trained first before he/she could work, where upon being employed he/she first needs to be trained by the government on how to be one, and then starts to work as a regular employee there. Another is a Fishing sector, where those who wants to be a fisherman could work there. We can also have a Cleaning sector, where we get to have a government sector focused cleaning the country. And so on, where basically that's the idea, to create a government economic focused sectors that would guarantee employment to the unemployed where not only do we get to help those people without a job, but they can also help our country become better.

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An Act Establishing a Magna Carta for Students

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An Act Establishing a Magna Carta for Students

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The purpose of this act will specifically establish a Magna Carta for Students that will include provisions that shall strengthen their to quality education and academic freedom. The realization of quality education as to how students enjoy their right to learn, and the realization of academic freedom as to how students can freely express themselves and be critical, through but not limited to, peaceful assembly and right to organization.

The significance of establishing a Magna Carta for students is for them to have an on-hand concrete document that will protect their rights as enumerated above amidst the looming threat of "red-tagging", harassment, and intimidation against students in schools. The power of this law however should not be confined within the texts and paper that define its provision, it is on how willing the youth to participate and engage with the current issues that surround their communities and sector. Thus, the crafting of this law shall ensure the active participation of the students that it swore to protect, and that is through community assemblies and consultation. This process will ensure that the Magna Carta will genuinely represent the collective demands, narrative, and needs of the country's students.

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An act amending RA 11510 or the Alternative Learning System Act to include a Teacher Education Program for ALS Graduates

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An act amending RA 11510 or the Alternative Learning System Act to include a Teacher Education Program for ALS Graduates

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An act amending RA 11510 or the Alternative Learning System Act to include under Section 8, a program offering Alternative System Graduates to continue a teaching education course to train them to become educators for Alternative Learning with the assistance of the Commission on Higher Education. This gives the beneficiaries of the Alternative Learning System to be hired under the Department of Education Bureau of Alternative Education give back to the ALS program which they have enjoyed by becoming teachers for their chosen program under Section 8 of RA 11510. The provision shall also appropriate funds from the Bureau of Alternative Education in the realization of this program.

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Sadly, I have been reading a lot of forums in the internet where a lot of women are subjected to undergo illegal and unsafe abortions because it is illegal here in the Philippines. For those who are privileged, they can travel to Thailand (closest, visa-free, and cheapest) option for a safe and medical abortion but not everyone has the option to do so. Although, I do acknowledge that this is a cure effect rather than it is preventive. Alongside this act, I would suggest having strict family planning and contraceptive regulations wherein abortion could end up being the final resort for a lot of women.

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Anti-Social Media Parenting Act: An Act Strengthening the Prohibitions on Child Labor And Penalizing Featuring Children in Social Media Parenting Content.

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Anti-Social Media Parenting Act: An Act Strengthening the Prohibitions on Child Labor And Penalizing Featuring Children in Social Media Parenting Content.

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Nowadays, I have been seeing more and more children being featured in social media parenting posts and content. There are some parents who post the milestones in their child’s life; first steps, first words, and maybe their first day of school. However, more and more parents are being more comfortable in posting their child’s vulnerable moments under the guise of “educational” parenting content for other parents.

Meltdowns, personal talks and misunderstandings; although these moments documented may serve as educational material for first-time parents; I believe it disregards not only the privacy of the children, but also puts their safety at risk. If I were a lawmaker, I would propose the Anti-Social Media Parenting Act.

This Act will further define RA 7610 or the Special Protection of Children Against Child Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act, Article 6 (e); specifically, I would want it to make documenting a child’s vulnerability; both emotionally and psychologically, and the publication of it through social media to be criminally punishable. This would punish taking a picture or video of meltdowns and medical or behavioral episodes.

In addition to this, I would also prohibit the monetization of these supposed educational parenting content and to be covered under RA 9231 which further strengthens the prohibition for child labor. This is grounded on the fact that these parents would often choose to only dedicate their content to watching the child grow up. Although these social media accounts and platforms would serve as a memorabilia or journal for parenting, the children are not able to fully understand the implications and consequences of their childhood being aired and broadcasted in different social media platforms.

These children, come their majority age, will not be able to remove the traces of their childhood on the internet especially considering the uncredited ‘repost’ culture. Enacting a law that punishes the parents who use their children as sources of “content” and livelihood should discourage them from purely being “poster parents' ' to their poster child. Taking away the camera from the parents –in extension, the gaze of the internet– in these crucial, developmental and vulnerable moments of a child would promote parents to be more present in these instances. It would call for them to focus on addressing and listening to their children, rather than becoming an instructor with a child being used as a mere demonstration of parenting skills.

Definitions

Child: Any individual under the age of eighteen (18)

Social Media Parenting: The act of parents or guardians who show methods of care, education, discipline and interaction with their children on social media platforms through images, videos, short-form content and blogs.

Particular acts to be banned

Posting of Sensitive Content: This would feature any content that would compromise the privacy, safety and security of a child during their most crucial years of development including but not limited to; nudity, medical information and medical status, behavioral and personal struggles or the discussion of private and intimate family matters.

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An Act Strengthening the Financial Literacy of the Filipino People

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An Act Strengthening the Financial Literacy of the Filipino People

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Money is always in the mind of the Filipinos, especially considering the economy, wages and benefits, and tax obligations in the country. One of the ways to help the people is through enhancing financial literacy. This has always been a problem in the Philippines where lots of people encounter in their daily lives such as scams, asset and debt management, poor spending, lack of financial preparation, and many more.

This law would focus on the integration of financial literacy in the education of the Filipino youth. By financial literacy education, this would encompass, but not limited to, the basic concepts of savings, personal budgeting, investments, inflation, business, tax responsibilities, etc. At their young age, financial literacy should already be at the back of their minds in preparation for life-changing decisions involving finance during adulthood. The government would also provide free and convenient channels of financial literacy sessions through banks and financial institutions, as not a lot of people have knowledge on the various incentives that the latter offers. Private and corporate institutions may also be mandated to promote financial literacy through educational discussions to further implant its relevance into the minds of people.

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The 'No Garage, No Car' bill was proposed by Reps. Salceda, Velasco, Herrera-Dy in 2016. It entails that a car buyer must present proof that they have adequate parking space for their prospective vehicle. The bill seeks to lessen the number of parked cars on the sidewalks and roads, which leads to traffic and pedestrian peril.

I would like to modify this bill by lessening the restrictiveness toward prospective car buyers. Instead of not allowing new car buyers to buy and register their cars, having no proof of parking space would incur fines per month (LGU shall monitor and fine, with help of LTO) instead.

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An Act Requiring the Mandatory Implementation of Daycares/Children's Spaces in Offices and Workplaces

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An Act Requiring the Mandatory Implementation of Daycares/Children's Spaces in Offices and Workplaces

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During my Gender and the Law class in my undergraduate studies, I have learned about the statistics of women, single parents, low-income parent/s, as well as read countless of testimonies, unable to juggle the need to work to gain income and take care of their child or children. This struggle could lead to either the compromise of one's capability to do well in one's job or affect the ability to earn the necessary wages and funds to sustain their lives and the needs of their child or children.

I would propose that offices and workplaces must have a daycare center within for their employees or workers to drop off their child during their working hours. The daycare center must have the necessary facilities and amenities needed for children, especially those that are really young. The conditions of these daycare centers should be safe, secure, and well-protected to ensure the safety and well-being of the children in there. And, there must be a daycare supervisor with the right qualifications, experiences, and certifications to watch over the children. Moreover, such supervisors can even take it a step forward and assist the children with learning basic functions and concepts that their parents may not have the time to teach them due to being busy at work.

Of course, this would not be limited to parents who struggle on balancing work and childrearing. All employees of the workplace would be welcome to drop off their children in the office's daycare.

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An Act Amending the Law Against Concubinage

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An Act Amending the Law Against Concubinage

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I think the law has not sufficiently criminalized concubinage. Most of the time, it is the husband who is consciously co-habiting, providing for, and engaging in sexual acts with the querida. If he were caught and charges were pressed against him, the husband would be criminally liable.

However, I think the querida, when circumstances warrant it, must also be held liable. If she enters the extramarital relationship fully aware that the man she is co-habiting with is legally married yet still continues to co-habit with him and act as if she were his wife, then she must be held criminally liable. The querida must be held accountable for the following crimes (1) violating the sanctity of marriage, (2) destroying the family of the legal wife and insulting her dignity as a mother and a woman, and (3) taking the husband away from his family and preventing him from performing his paternal duties.

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An Act Improving Security for Online Transactions

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An Act Improving Security for Online Transactions

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We have seen it all in the news - Banks such as BDO and BPI getting breached with suspicious withdrawals from almost foreign sources, a Sari-sari merchant scammed of delivering thousands of pesos to an unverified GCASH Number, internet links and emails trying its best to persuade you into thinking that you have won an iPhone or probably a MacBook.

Filipinos nowadays rely so much on the ease of sending pecuniary resources through the wireless media. Why not? Just a few taps and you have already sent your payment for a delivery you just ordered. But this reliance on technological transactions has made the Filipino digital market vulnerable to phantom exploitations, invisible and untraceable to the everyday consumer. Thus, with this in mind, I would implement an Act that aims to establish comprehensive measures to enhance online transaction security, protect consumer interests, and foster trust in electronic commerce, in recognition of the growing importance of online transactions in modern commerce and the need to ensure consumer protection and security in the Philippines.

Pillars for Act:

Encryption and Data Protection:

I would consider mandating the use of strong encryption protocols and secure transmission methods for all sensitive data transmitted during online transactions. Working with e-commerce experts and data privacy specialists would assist merchants and payment service providers in implementing robust data protection measures to safeguard customer information from unauthorized access or theft. Two-step verification processes are just not enough.

Authentication and Authorization

Another Pillar would be to implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) for high-risk transactions and sensitive actions to verify the identity of users and prevent unauthorized access. Considering the unknowing activities of outside users who can easily access private information, we have to ensure that users have control over their authentication credentials and can securely manage access to their accounts.

Fraud Prevention and Detection

I would require merchants and payment service providers to deploy effective fraud detection systems to identify and mitigate fraudulent transactions promptly. An instant mechanism for reporting and investigating suspected fraud incidents that does not require too many complexities can help alert companies faster.

Consumer Education and Awareness

Promote public awareness campaigns to educate consumers about online transaction security best practices, especially on Phishing, scams, and suspicious users.

With all of these pillars, Online transactions would be more secured and protected.

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The Philippines is one of the only two countries in the world that still outlaws divorce. Three days ago, Senate President Chiz Escudero announced that the Senate will not prioritize the divorce bill after the historic vote in the House of Representatives which approved the bill in May 22. The religious objections to divorce should be confined to the four walls of a Church or a home - it has no place in the chambers of Congress when the freedom of large swathes of women are considerably constrained because they cannot access divorce. The alternative, annulment of marriage, is equally cumbersome especially when irreconcilable differences is not an acceptable metric in the Family Code. Outlawing divorce to preserve the sanctity of marriage or to keep families intact has the adverse effect of making all parties unhappy.

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The Philippines is one of the only countries in the world where divorce is illegal, often trapping women in toxic marriages with no way out.

Nearly 90 per cent of the Philippines' population identify as Catholic

No progress has been made since the divorce bill passed through the Lower House in March

The only method to legally leave a marriage is through an annulment many can't afford

According to a report published this year by the Philippine Statistic Authority, one in four married women in the Philippines have been assaulted by their partner or husband.

Patti Gallardo-Marcelo is one of those women.

"I was battered physically, emotionally, sexually and financially by my former partner for 24 years, starting at the age of 16," she told the ABC.

Ms Gallardo-Marcelo, who married her former husband at a young age, she said she unwittingly became a victim.

"While most girls were celebrating their introduction to society, I was already experiencing snippets of manipulation and control that I mistook for love," she said.

While the Philippines is one of two countries left in the world where divorce is illegal - the other being Vatican City - the country is making moves towards its legalisation.

A divorce bill was passed in the country's Lower House of Congress this March, despite opposition from President Rodrigo Duterte, who also had a failed marriage.

The bill would allow the court to dissolve marriages which are considered "irremediably broken" and for individuals to remarry a person of the opposite sex.

Nearly 90 per cent of the Philippines' population identify themselves as Catholic - and the bill has now become a struggle between the majority conservative ideals and the progressive wings of parliament.

'President Duterte is against divorce'

Nearly seven months on, the bill has remained stagnant. But even if it passes in favour in the senate, Mr Duterte could still use his veto powers to cancel it.

"The President is against divorce," Mr Duterte's spokesperson said in a press conference after the move in March this year.

Women told to endure domestic violence in the name of God

Advocates say the Christian church in Australia is not just failing to sufficiently address domestic violence, but is enabling and concealing it.

Family and domestic violence support services:

Former house speaker Pantaleon Alvarez, one of the principal authors of the divorce bill, said the bill had made little progress due to strong lobbies against divorce by supporters of the Catholic Church.

"[The Catholic Church] should respect our position as a Government official because we have an obligation to the entire nation, irrespective of whatever religion they belong [to]," Mr Alvarez said.

"The majority and minority [in the Lower House] worked together, there was no opposition.

"They supported the bill. I don't understand why the Senate of the Philippines are so afraid to deliver it and pass the bill."

Spousal violence is the most common form of violence experienced by women aged between 15 and 49, the Philippine Statistic Authority figures show.

The findings were based on a preliminary result from the 2017 national demographic and health survey, which found 26 per cent of women in that age group have experienced physical, sexual, or emotional violence by their husband or partner.

"[By not recognising a right for] divorce, it is really hell for those who would like to move forward into new relationships," Ms Gallardo-Marcelo said.

Annulment is a luxury few can afford

For politicians like Mr Alvarez and Mr Duterte, leaving their marriages is more feasible than for most of the country's poorer and vulnerable residents.

The process is a luxury few can afford - taking up to 10 years in the overburdened court system and costing thousands of dollars.

The only method to legally end a marriage is through a civil procedure called an annulment, where the marriage is declared null and void from the beginning on the grounds of "psychological incapacity".

"For instance, when entering a marriage, one party is not prepared to enter married life, say they failed to perform their obligation as a husband or a wife ... that can be considered as a psychological incapacitated spouse," Mr Alvarez said, adding that there were many ways to interpret the phrase.

Ms Gallardo-Marcelo said she escaped her marriage in 2002, but it took five years and 150,000 Philippinepesos($3,888) - about 56 per cent of an average Filipino family's annual income - to file a criminal case against her ex-husband and nullify the marriage.

"Both cases left me drained emotionally and financially," Gallardo-Marcelo said, adding that she is no longer a victim.

In a country that criminalises adultery and concubinage, married women who have another relationship can be jailed up to six years while married men who are proven to be living with another woman can be jailed for up to four years.

Law 'biased' against domestic violence survivors

While the Philippines Government signed the Anti-violence against women and their children Act in 2004 - aimed at protecting women and children on a range of violence - many feel that it's not enough.

"It assumes that there is violence but that is not always the case, and there are still social effects on the children and couples," Mr Alvarez said.

Ms Gallardo-Marcello said the archaic court system was one of the reasons why many women don't file abuse cases.

"Very few cases are successful [because] many women are intimidated by the process and uninformed about how the law can assist them," she said.

"I have moved forward and a lot of the women we have helped have moved forward as well.

"There are a lot of us who have stories to tell ... some find it difficult to "make kwento", that is why I do what I do," she said.

"Make kwento" translates to "tell their story like it is".

Ms Gallardo-Marcello has since started a local NGO called SAVE Our Women, short for Stop the Abuse and Violence, in 2007.
This story was sourced via the 2018 East West Centre's Senior Journalism Seminar.

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Trapped in an abusive marriage in one of the last places on Earth where divorce is illegal

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The Philippines is one of the only countries in the world where divorce is illegal, often trapping women in toxic marriages with no way out.

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An act creating a legalized process for expedited document approvals

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An act creating a legalized process for expedited document approvals

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Having a "fixer" when it comes to government documents and processes is extremely common in the Philippines. Instead of spending hours waiting in line to get the document or approval you need, one can simply pay a fixer to fast track government processes and acquire these documents much faster. Even if this process is currently illegal, it is still being done discretely between citizens and government employees.

The government can only control the free hand of the market to an extent. Whenever the government over-extends its authority, people will always find a way to bypass it if the service is perceived to be worth the additional costs and risks. Therefore, I believe that it is foolish to think that certain market practices can be stopped simply by simply criminalizing them.

I propose to regulate this "fixing" process by legalizing it and creating standards by which they should be followed. This would enable the government to monitor and tax those who wish to get documents processed quicker while enabling the public to do so without violating the law.

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Supposing that I am a member of Congress, I would propose to enact a Just Energy Transition Bill that would ensure a just and humane energy transition prioritizing the health and welfare of people, especially those in vulnerable communities and the marginalized sectors. Although it remains pending in the Senate Committee, Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian has previously filed Senate Bill No. 157 or “An Act Providing for a National Energy Policy and Framework for a Clean and Just Energy Transition in the Country, and Appropriating Funds Therefor” also known as the Energy Transition Act. Up to date, it still does not have a counterpart bill in the House of Representatives, making its passage far from being possible as of writing. The issue now is, upon careful examination of its provisions, the bill remains vague that it almost sounds like it is playing on the safe side provided how various big corporations may possibly be affected by the bill. Among the specific provisions that I would like my proposed Just Energy Transition Act to be must include:

1. Prioritization of investment and transition on clean, sustainable, and renewable energy sources. The effects of global warming are continually being felt around the world. Not only does this pose threats to our natural environment but also to the health and welfare of people. Part of our obligations under the Paris Agreement is to keep the rise of global temperature for this century to below 2 degrees Celsius only. However, it does not seem that the country is doing proactive efforts on this. The country's energy mix still heavily relies on oil and gas which are extremely harmful to the environment. It is high time that the government perform genuine efforts to keep this world a safe place to live in for the future generations to come. It is also important to note that not all renewable energy sources are encouraged. For instance, Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) and Waste-to-Energy (WtE) Incineration are both under the guise of being renewable energy sources. However, LNG relies on importation which will require huge infrastructures to be built under the oceans. Moreover, WtE Incineration does not also free us from harmful gas emissions.

2. Protection to people residing in the communities near areas where energy transition would occur. It is important to secure their means of livelihood and that their households must not, by any means, be demolished or relocated.

3. Strict observance of protected areas, especially those with relevance to our culture and heritage. No energy  infrastructures must be built in these areas. We must learn from the recent controversy regarding a resort built in Chocolate Hills of Bohol. Although a completely different issue, we must not let it happen ever again.

The provisions will ultimately be not just solely limited to the aforementioned. Rather, they must be given utmost importance and priority to ensure a just and humane energy transition without compromising the health and safety of both people and our natural environment.

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An Act Decriminalizing and Legalizing Abortion in the Philippines

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An Act Decriminalizing and Legalizing Abortion in the Philippines

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While the signing of the RH Bill into law presents itself as a notable stride in advocating for reproductive healthcare in the Philippines, abortion remains illegal and continues to be criminalized in the Philippines. This continues to deprive women of the right to choose when it comes to their own bodies, particularly in dealing with unwanted pregnancies. As such, they are left to resort to unsafe abortions which put their lives at risk, and lead to possible health complications.

With this, I believe that it is high time for abortion to be legalized, and consequently decriminalized in the Philippines. Apart from cases wherein abortion is needed in saving and protecting the health of pregnant women, this option must be made available to all women who are dealing with unwanted pregnancies, especially given that those that result from non-consensual sex exist.

Further, while the Catholic Church holds a great deal of influence in the Philippines and thus retains its “pro-life” stance, I believe that protecting life in terms of abortion must not only acknowledge that which is conceived, but also, and more importantly, of the woman who carries the pregnancy.

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An Act to Regulate Artificial Intelligence Usage for Economic Purposes

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An Act to Regulate Artificial Intelligence Usage for Economic Purposes

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Our current Cybercrime Laws and Intellectual Property Laws are inadequate in addressing this rising issue at hand. There has been a surge of online businesses posting promotional videos of public personalities like Doc Willie Ong "promoting" their "medicinal supplements and vitamins" which are not DOH and FDA approved. Unregulated AI use has enabled people to mislead and misinform vulnerable persons in our society like the older generations who are unaware and prone to believing misinformation on the internet. It is about time for our Legislative branch to work on amending or adding to our current Cybercrime and Intellectual Property Laws given the rise in the usage of AI. Unethical AI use will negatively impact our society if not mitigated on its earlier phases.

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An Act Mainstreaming the Utilization of Remote Sensing and Geographic Information System Data in the Formulation of Mangrove Forest Land Use Plans of Local Government Units in the Philippines

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An Act Mainstreaming the Utilization of Remote Sensing and Geographic Information System Data in the Formulation of Mangrove Forest Land Use Plans of Local Government Units in the Philippines

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Mangrove forests are among the most biologically diverse and economically valuable ecosystems around the world. Globally, there are about 70 to 80 species of mangroves covering a total area of 14.5 million hectares (Jia et al, 2023). These ecosystems are known to provide crucial benefits and services such as coastal protection, carbon sequestration, and habitat provision for various flora and fauna species.

Changes in land use and land cover (LULC) pose threats to natural ecosystems such as mangrove forests by altering various ecological processes (Richards & Friess, 2015) such the normal hydrological processes of an ecosystem (Bell & Irwin, 2002) as which consequently results in habitat fragmentation and degradation (Kushwaha et al., 2018) and biodiversity loss (Sharma et al., 2018). Hence, the effective conservation and management of mangrove forests requires a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of changes in LULC through constant monitoring and projection.

In the past years, researchers have started employing remote sensing (RS) technology and Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques to comprehensively analyze the historical spatiotemporal changes in the land use and land cover LULC of mangrove forests. Through the monitoring  and projecting changes in LULC  using time-series satellite imagery, aerial photographs, and spatial analysis techniques, researchers were able to track changes in mangrove forest cover, assess the impacts of anthropogenic and natural drivers, and develop predictive models for projecting future changes in LULC.

Remote sensing is widely used in monitoring changes in LULC in mangrove forests. Its time-series feature provides an opportunity to observe the spatiotemporal changes in mangrove forests (Buitre et al., 2019) and other classes within the region of interest. To add,  remote sensing provides higher data accuracy and ensures efficiency and repeatability of assessments (Buitre et al., 2019). The following are the advantages of using remote sensing as enumerated by Daquigan (2020):

1. enables the researchers to acquire information over large areas;

2. provides qualitative and quantitative measurements of mangrove forests; and,

3. provides accurate and reliable data on spatial distribution and temporal changes of mangrove forests (Omar et al., 2019).

Aside from the use of remote sensing technology, the monitoring of changes in LULC in mangrove forests  also employs GIS techniques to integrate the collected quantitative data with spatial attributes (Treitz and Rogan, 2004; Fan et al., 2008). Aside from this function, the GIS can also be used in projecting future LULC such as the Modules for Land Use Change and Evaluation (MOLUSCE) which is a free plug-in and integrates historical LULC trends, and physical and socio-economic drivers that could affect changes in LULC in mangrove forests.

This legislation proposes the mainstreaming of the use of remote sensing and geographic information system data in the formulation of mangrove forest land use plans of coastal municipalities in the Philippines.

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An Act to Improve Living Situation and Treatment of Prisoners, and the Creation of Better Rehabilitation Programs for Incarcerated Individuals

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An Act to Improve Living Situation and Treatment of Prisoners, and the Creation of Better Rehabilitation Programs for Incarcerated Individuals

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It is not a secret that many Filipino prisons houses way past their limit of prisoners. There have also been countless of cases where inmates are being mistreated or unjustly harassed by officers of the law. This has been such a common problem and yet not many see the urgency to remedy this. This is probably because it is hard to defend or promote the wellbeing of a "criminal". BUT it is very important to note, that these prisoners are humans and Filipinos meaning that they might not enjoy the same privileges and freedoms that we have, their rights as human beings are still and always will be intact. And so if i have the privilege of proposing a bill to Congress, it would be towards the creation of better (more humane) living quarters and distribution of prisoners, as well as access of female prisoners to menstrual hygiene products. In addition to this, it would also be beneficial to invest in programs that can help the inmates to find a source of income when they are released, or a better sense of self, or a hobby that can be an outlet of emotional troubles, or a medical professional they can seek advice too - all in order to fully rehabilitate back them into society. As this is one of the goals of the justice system.

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The Public Transportation Emergency Reform Act

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The Public Transportation Emergency Reform Act

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Public transportation is one of the main drivers of economic development and social equity. In societies where the rich and poor alike are equal in transit, prosperity likewise can move equitably through all strata of society. Based on a recent study by JICA, the poor state of our public transportation infrastructure costs the Philippine economy something to the tune of PhP 1.27 Trillion every year, put another way that is almost 10% of GDP. For context, the Philippines in 2019 only spent around 3.9% of GDP on Education, while as an economy we waste 10% of it due to poor transportation infrastructure. The need to reform and to empower the visible hand of government to intervene is of paramount and existential importance to ensure that the nation can survive and then thrive.

My proposed legislation would be composed of the following parts:

1. Nationalisation of the PUV (Jeeps, UV Express, and Tricycles)

2. National Subsidisation of the essential passenger and cargo sea, air, and overland transportation routes

3. Creation of a National Transportation Administration under the Department of Transportation to administer for a the duration of the program the implementation of the said program

4. Funding for the training, hiring, and employment of the workers in the affected transport sectors as career civil servants under the plantilla of the NTA or the GOCCs that will manage the different transportation sectors

5. Funding for the construction and/or refurbishment of state-owned and managed common-use physical infrastructure such as dedicated express roads for rapid-bus-transit, common rails for trains, airports and seaports, and the terminals for each type of transit mode.

6. A Sunset Clause - to limit the abuse of this program, this will run only for 25 years, with industry specific sunsets sooner than that, the objective of the sunset is to provide a specific timeframe for which the effectivity of the policy can be measured; infra that is 'private-sector and free-market ready' will be privatised, while infra that serves an essential public utility but does not make money will remain with the government. This will ensure that the balance between free market economics and social equity are met, with the state bearing the responsibility to find that market clearing point, and be held accountable for it

7. Provision for the appropriations necessary to fund this program by way of transport bonds (bonds that will payout at the end based on a fixed coupon rate), other revenues, and public debt

I'm sure if this ever became law, it would immediately face a challenge at the Supreme Court on grounds of a grave abuse of discretion and lack or excess of jurisdiction on the part of the State. However, in my opinion this is a legitimate exercise of the powers of the state, namely the police power and eminent domain.

My end goal is to have infrastructure that is efficient, equitable, and functional.

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An Act Exempting Menstrual Hygiene Products from Value-Added Tax

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An Act Exempting Menstrual Hygiene Products from Value-Added Tax

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Menstruation plays a significant part of every woman’s life as it is inherently part of the female condition. To manage their menstrual cycles, women use menstrual hygiene products which include, but aren’t limited to sanitary pads, pantyliners, tampons, and menstrual cups. These products are deemed as necessities because they help manage their hygiene and, without them, women may run into harmful health concerns.

Despite its necessity, many women in the Philippines do not have adequate financial access to these products mainly because of its high cost. There are also women who overlook the purchase of these products because of the stigma that surrounds it. This is a health crisis dubbed as the period poverty which is evident not only in the Philippines, but also the entire world. Moreover, a hidden Value-Added Tax (VAT) is imposed on all menstrual hygiene products in the country, otherwise known as the “Tampon Tax.”

It can be argued that the persistent inclusion of the “tampon tax” in these products impedes women’s right to health, and its affordability and accessibility is essential for achieving gender equity and human dignity. The State has the duty to ensure the fundamental equality of women and promote their right to health. Additionally, our laws do not seem to acknowledge menstrual products alone, much less its necessity.

While making menstrual hygiene products completely free would alleviate the issue of its accessibility, making the government freely distribute these products requires hefty funding and gives women less prerogative to decide which products are the most compatible with their needs. Nevertheless, making all types of menstrual hygiene products free is definitely a path we want to cross moving forward in our legislation, but making them more affordable at this point in time remains more feasible.

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Every 53 minutes, a woman or child is raped in the Philippines (The Philippine Star, 2016). Every year, about 7 million children are sexually abused; 98% of which are girls, and 33% of which is due to incest (Cameleon Association, 2024). PSA reported 2,478 maternal mortality deaths in 2021 alone (Philippine Daily Inquirer, 2023). More than that, it is reasonable to presume that the reported cases are lower than the actual statistics. Abortion, a highly contentious topic in a very conservative Catholic state, is still illegal in the country. With no access to healthcare, women and children are left to fend on their own, abused, helpless, and terrified — their lives ruined by pregnancy that they did not want, and unable to afford.

While decriminalization of abortion could be milestones away in our country, one small, but very significant step to help protect vulnerable women and children of all ages is to give them access to safe emergency contraceptives. These girls are criminalized even when they are the victims of violations of their own body. I believe that the country should prioritize actual real, live human beings rather than treat them with cruelty and abandon for the sake of lives who are yet to exist. The rights and freedom of these women and children should be protected; everyone, especially children, should have access to good sexual education for their awareness, as they are easily molested by the adults in their vicinity. Every hospital and clinic should offer free emergency contraceptives to desperate women and children and these institutions should treat anyone asking for their help with kindness and utmost sympathy. If women and children are able to prevent unwanted pregnancy caused by unfortunate circumstances by taking emergency contraceptives, a huge burden will be lifted off of their shoulders. They can still be given a chance to live their lives a clean slate, and be able to get away from their abusers.

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2016/03/05/1560073/one-woman-or-child-raped-every-53-minutes

https://www.cameleon-association.org/contexte-aux-philippines/?lang=en#:~:text=About%207%2C000%2C000%20children%20are%20sexually,are%20under%206%20years%20old.

https://opinion.inquirer.net/162254/philippines-maternal-mortality-rate-worse-than-reported#ixzz8gyZRq6yW

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An Act on Strengthening of Probing on Funds of Governmental Projects

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An Act on Strengthening of Probing on Funds of Governmental Projects

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As citizens, all we know that our taxes are the funds of the governmental projects we see daily. But the question is: Do all these funds get maximized efficiently and effectively for these projects, on its purpose of a better living for Filipinos? Or are the project material costs, which can be overpriced to benefit the contractor, rationalized?

These are just some questions that this act can answer without a doubt of corruption, graft, or anything in the same line. By having the Commission of Audit’s more prudent probing on the use of funds, the people will know where their taxes go and that these taxes translate into a better living for us, the citizens.

There should be a definite description of how the funds are used in governmental projects. Whether it be the full list of project materials, costs, contracting parties, or any expenses. The main purpose of this act is to showcase the specifications of how our taxes, as taxpayers, being utilized in the governmental projects. As taxpayers, we should be given the right to see to it that our funds are being used in a manner that will not leave a doubt of corruption or any in that regard.

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An Act Promoting Long-Term Contracts for Farmers

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An Act Promoting Long-Term Contracts for Farmers

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Despite being an agriculture-oriented country, the attainment of food sovereignty has yet to be realized in the country. As farmers struggle to make a living out of farming, the entire nation also bears the brunt as inaccessibility to produce causes fluctuations in prices of basic crops. For many decades, the system has been one that disadvantages those at the bottom of the value-chain (harvesters), despite them being playing the most important role in the hierarchy. As a result, many turn away from farming to transition into other occupations that offer more financial stability. This exacerbates the problem further. To prevent the agriculture sector from this crisis, I believe that the government establishing and entering into long-term contracts with farmers is a great starting point. This would give stability not just to our farmers, but also to consumers who rely on their produce. While there are existing frameworks already in place that are in line with this, there must be more comprehensive provisions and stricter adherence to its implementation. A new law institutionalizing this in the entire country can present an opportunity for our government strengthen the agriculture sector. Ultimately, the law would be a significant move towards the attainment of food sovereignty for all.

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An act incentivizing the development of bike-commuter friendly infrastructure in private establishments

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An act incentivizing the development of bike-commuter friendly infrastructure in private establishments

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With the approval of House Bill No. 574 (An Act Institutionalizing the Use of the Bicycle as a Regular Mode of Transportation, Defining the Rights of Bicycle Riders, Establishing Appropriate Infrastructure and Facilities, Appropriating Funds Therefor, and for Other Purposes) by the House of Representatives, there is a promising outlook for the future of bike commuting in the Philippines. However, while this legislative act marks a significant step forward, it remains insufficient as it places the primary responsibility for creating bike-friendly infrastructure on the government alone.

To ensure that biking becomes a viable and widespread mode of transportation for the average Filipino, it is essential to incentivize the private sector to participate actively in this initiative. Introducing a complementary bill that offers tax breaks and other similar incentives for the development of bike-friendly infrastructure could be a pivotal strategy. Such infrastructure could include secure bike parking, public showers, bike ramps, and other facilities that enhance the convenience and safety of bike commuting.

Private sector involvement would not only accelerate the development of necessary infrastructure but also distribute the responsibility more evenly, thereby reducing the strain on government resources.

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An Act to Protect and Preserve Coral Reefs in the Philippines

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An Act to Protect and Preserve Coral Reefs in the Philippines

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The protection of coral reefs are often overlook despite being one of the reason for the tourism in a city.

Coral reefs are not only home to diverse biodiversity but is also valuable to the ecosystem and economy of a country. They provide food for the people and a livelihood for the fishermen.

I would like to propose a law for the protection of coral reefs in our country. There are numerous laws passed in regards to marine biodiversity conservation and waste pollution but not specifically for coral reefs. All of which are important but without coral reefs, marine biodiversity would substantially decrease.

In this act, a task force will be created who is responsible for mapping and monitoring coral reefs. They'll be researching the causes of coral reefs degradation in their assigned area. They are also commanded to give recommendation in solutions in the conservation of coral reefs.

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An Act to Establish a National Minimum Wage

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An Act to Establish a National Minimum Wage

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As it currently stands, the daily minimum wage differs from one region to another with NCR having the highest minim wage, while the BARMM has the lowest. This act aims to address this disparity by establishing a national minimum wage that would be equal for all regions. Having a national minimum wage would ultimately help reduce poverty rates by providing minimum wage workers with a wage that is livable and allows them to afford the most basic essential needs such as food, water, clothes, and housing. Another benefit to this is that it could potentially help decongest metro manila, since workers won't necessarily need to come to manila anymore to look for jobs.

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An Act Regulating Influencer Marketing for Strengthened Consumer Protection

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An Act Regulating Influencer Marketing for Strengthened Consumer Protection

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The rise of social media influencers has significantly impacted consumer behavior, often blurring the lines between genuine recommendations and paid promotions. While consumer protection laws offer a blanket statement of protection under Article 110. False, Deceptive or Misleading Advertisement or R.A. 7394, they do not adequately address or penalize the unique challenges this form of marketing poses. Other countries, such as the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, France, Canada, Germany, China, Singapore, Taiwan, and Chile, have imposed strict regulations to ensure transparency and protect consumers from misleading advertising practices in influencer marketing. It is time the Philippines follows suit.

The Influencer Marketing Regulation Act (IMRA) is designed to protect consumers from false, deceptive, and misleading advertising practices prevalent in social media influencer marketing, mandating transparency, accountability, and fairness in the promotional content shared by influencers. Key provisions would include, among others, 1) Mandatory disclosure of material connections; 2) Truthful endorsements based on actual experience with the products or services they endorse, 3) Compliance with established advertising standards; 4) Development of the Influencer Code of Conduct; 5) Liabilities and Penalties; and 6) Monitoring and Enforcement agencies.

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An Act Strengthening Financial and Technical Assistance for the Implementation of the LCCAP

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An Act Strengthening Financial and Technical Assistance for the Implementation of the LCCAP

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In order to support the Paris Agreement's target of keeping the rise in the world's average temperature to below 2 degrees celsius, the Philippines committed to a projected Green House Gas emission reduction and avoidance of 75%. Seeing that the Philippines is one of the most vulnerable countries to the effects of climate change, such as typhoons, it is of utmost importance that the country strengthens its measures in climate adaptation and mitigation. Such measures cannot be strengthened in Metro Manila alone, but must be carried out by all local government units (LGUs) throughout the country.

The Philippines has recently made progress in improving its LGUs' disaster response and climate change action measures through several laws. First, RA 10121 (Philippine Disaster Risk reduction and Management Act of 2010) created the Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund (LDRRMF) which requires LGUs to set aside 5% of their budget as a local calamity fund. 70% of this may be used to support pre-disaster preparedness and risk reduction measures, while the remaining 30% may be used for a quick response fund (QRF) once disaster strikes. Second, the Climate Change Act of 2009 resulted in the creation of the Climate Change Commission (CCC), the National Climate Change Action Plan (NCAP), and the Local Climate Change Action Plan (LCCAP). Through the LCCAP, LGUs were required to formulate, plan, and implement such climate change action plans in their respective areas. The financing for this could be drawn from their Internal Revenue Allotment, or through the amendment of the said law, known as Republic Act 10174 (Establishment of the People's Survival Fund). The PSF allows LGUs to tap the fund for the implementation of their LCCAP projects through proposals which are to be approved by the board.

While the aforementioned mandate LGUs to formulate meaningful plans, there may still be a lack of financial and technical support that would allow them to execute these to their full extent. This act should provide LGUs with strengthened financial and technical assistance so that they may fully contribute in the country's fulfillment of its NDC targets, and help their own people by mitigating the effects of climate change.

It shall:

1. Provide strengthened financial assistance from the National Government by annually allocating an additional 10% of the LGUs estimated revenue from regular resources for the implementation of their LCCAP.

2. Ensure that the LGU receives sufficient technical assistance from their state university or the nearest state university to their area in the implementation of the LCCAP.

3. Provide strengthened financial assistance from the National Government by annually allocating an additional 5% of the LGUs estimated revenue from regular resources for the their quick response fund.

4. At the end of the budget cycle, whatever funds have not been used would be carried onto the budget of the following year, and the National Government will only replenish the deficit.

5. Commission on Audit will see to it that the funds were used only for their intended purpose.

Items 1 and 2 would help the LGU implement their LCCAP as climate change adaptation and mitigation measures, while item 3 would aid the LGU in responding to such disasters hastily without waiting for the national government to act. These serve as financial and technical assistance as the fund will not be taken from the LGU's budget. The LGU's estimated revenue would simply be the metric used in determining the yearly allocation.

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“An Act Requiring All Graduates to Plant Ten Fruit-Bearing Trees” or “Graduate Tree Planting Act of 2024”

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“An Act Requiring All Graduates to Plant Ten Fruit-Bearing Trees” or “Graduate Tree Planting Act of 2024”

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The Philippines already has a law where a citizen must plant a tree. Specifically, Republic Act 10176, otherwise known as “Arbor Act of 2012” stated in Section 8 “All able-bodied citizens of the Philippines, who are at least twelve (12) years of age, shall be required to plant one (1) tree every year”. However, given the escalating concerns of food security, pollution and catastrophic floods, it is essential to enhance tree planting efforts in the country.

The numbers of trees multiplied will have a significant and positive impact on both the environment and food security in the Philippines. Through mandating every incoming graduate as requisite for graduation (applicable to of all levels) must plant atleast ten fruit-baring trees, this will exponentially increase the number of trees planted each year.

In 2022 alone, 1.6 million students graduated from an institution of higher education in the Philippines (Ramirez, 2023). If each one planted 10 fruit bearing trees, the country would have planted 16 million trees in a year, and 160 million trees in a decade. These trees will contribute to reducing air pollution, leave a cooling effect of 7 degrees lower, filter air quality, while providing barrier against ultraviolet rays (Cant, 2020). Also, trees prevent flooding and soil erosion through absorption of thousands of liters of stormwater, contributing to the stability and health of the environment.

Beyond the environmental benefits, this initiative would provide a sustainable food source. To help address hunger and malnourishment in communities. The fruits would be harvested and consumed by the local population, while the surplus produce can be sold. This would create economic opportunities for local communities.

This law will foster a sense of responsibility and community engagement among the youth. Building a Filipino tradition of a sustainable future. Thus, this multiplier effect of the “Graduate Tree Planting Act” will bring about incredible positive changes, creating a healthier, more sustainable and food- secure Philippines.

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Berkeley International School Garden Club students…

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An Act to Strengthen the Labor Policies regarding Persons with Disabilities in the Philippines.

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An Act to Strengthen the Labor Policies regarding Persons with Disabilities in the Philippines.

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While strides have been made in the local and national level regarding persons with disabilities, many factors still impair persons with disabilities from attaining equal opportunity when it comes to their livelihoods. Republic Act No. 7277 entitled "The Magna Carta for Disabled Persons" is one of the main laws in the country meant to address and aid persons with disabilities, but even this law is lacking when it comes to adhering to disability standards used across the world. An amendment is perhaps required to strengthen the base law in order to truly fulfill its purpose of addressing the needs of persons with disabilities across the country by ensuring that persons with disabilities are represented and are able to participate in key councils in each LGU. While progress is being made towards this end, there are still new and glaring issues presenting themselves when it comes to addressing the needs of persons with disabilities in the country. This act or amendment hopes to strengthen the presence of persons with disabilities in local councils, ensuring that their voices are heard and that their participation is required in decision and rule-making councils, to ensure that they are represented in every sector, giving persons with disabilities an avenue that they can trust and go to when they are in need.

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An Act Strengthening the Universal Health Care Law

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An Act Strengthening the Universal Health Care Law

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The Universal Heath Care Law was meant to save the lives and maintain the health of people without going into financial strain. However, those enrolled under PhilHealth still pay from their own pockets despite having 'universal healthcare'.

The health system in the Philippines is not yet capable of servicing 'universal healthcare'. It falls short in the number of patients it can accomodate. Often, patients are turned away and denied admission due to the lack of sufficient accessible healthcare providers.

Thus, to achieve universal healthcare, the health system accessible to the general population must be improved. This includes improving the number and quality of health care facilities and maintaining a large corps of experienced and motivated health care workers.

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Roads and transportation has always been a part of human society all the way to the time of the Mesopotamian city-states. As such it has been in the interest of every government to legislate upon the use of these roads, whether it be through tolls, speed limits, and law enforcement.

In Philippine law though, the main act of congress that involve the roadways is RA 4136, the Land Transportation Act of 1964. This establishes the LTO, LTFRB, and nationwide speed limits on public roads. The act then leaves the rest of the rule-making procedures to the LTO.

This has been problematic to me as the LTO has been car-focused for the majority of its lifespan. There has been efforts to raise bills that are alternative transport-focused like Senate Bill 1698, but that bill only focuses on bike-related infrastructure.

This act could help protect other users of the roadways like cyclists and pedestrians as it would make it clearer to what are their rights and privileges are to both law enforcement and the public. So this act is more an expansion on the duties of the LTO and PNP-HPG.

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Boosting Philippine Tourism and Improving the Economy: Amending the Local Government Code to create the position of a Local Tourism Officer

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Boosting Philippine Tourism and Improving the Economy: Amending the Local Government Code to create the position of a Local Tourism Officer

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For an archipelagic country boasting beautiful mountain ridges, beaches, culture, flaura and faunas, and gastronomy, tourism could be an integral part of its economy. It is no wonder then, that tourism is an integral part of the Philippine economy.

The PSA reported that the tourism sector's contribution to the Philippine economy grew from 6.2 percent in 2022 to 8.6 percent in 2023. In March 2024, the Department of Tourism recorded 1.2 million international visitors to the country - a significant 22.86 percent increase from the previous year, recording 999,390 visitor arrivals last March 2023. With the world's shift to regular programming during the end of COVID-19, it is essential then that the growth and development of the Philippines' tourism sector be supported to contribute to the government efforts of poverty reduction, job generation, inclusive growth, and sustainable development.

The amendment proposes that the tourism safeguards of the Republic Act No. 9593, otherwise known as "The Tourism Act of 2009", be reflected and integrated into the Local Government Code or Republic Act 7160 - to create employment opportunities & promote tourism in each city and/or municipality. The amendment intends to amend RA 7160, and ensure the role of tourism officers in each city, municipality, or province, and increase government support for the growth of the tourism sector.

The position of a Local Tourism Officer could require marketing, public administration, and civil service qualifications to further leverage on the tourism sector's growth, and to cultivate promotion of the different strands of Philippine culture and gastronomy, essentially boosting the country's soft power.

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An Act Defining Deepfake and Regulating the Use of Deepfake in Online Platforms

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An Act Defining Deepfake and Regulating the Use of Deepfake in Online Platforms

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This is actually my undergraduate thesis. As of now, there are no current definition of deepfake in our laws. Although there are mentions of Image-based Sexual Abuse and Gender-Based Online Sexual Harassment in the current legislations, it is still necessary to define what deepfake is to determine what it constitutes. The use of deepfake has been prevalent in the society, where people are often victimized by imitating their likeness to portray them in a bad light. Such is usually done to advance political propaganda or to harass individuals, particularly women. The proposal of a bill or the enactment of a law that revolves in this subject matter is much needed as technology continues to advance and develop. Moreover, in legislating such an act, it is important to consider the right of individuals to freedom of speech and expression. Therefore, careful deliberations is needed when considering the enactment of such.

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An Act to Require Sustainable and Smart Cities and to Focus on Long Term Urban Development

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An Act to Require Sustainable and Smart Cities and to Focus on Long Term Urban Development

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One thing about the country that I've always been critical about is the lack of green spaces, sustainable options, third places, and urban planning. The recent floodings due to typhoon Carina remind me of this once more. With this act, I'd propose that cities, new, old, or in the works, must follow a standard requirement with its public spaces and utility, infrastructure, and environment. I would like to see accessibility being prioritized and to increase the standard of living for everyone. Before urban spaces are built, its plans will be thoroughly reviewed, ensuring that it can withstand calamities and mundane struggles such as commuting, traffic, and walkability.

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An Act Modernizing the Railway System and Other PUV via Mobile Application.

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An Act Modernizing the Railway System and Other PUV via Mobile Application.

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The Philippines lags behind in urban mobility, ranking out of 60 cities around the world in the 2022 Urban Mobility Readiness Index. The study assessed the quality of the public transit system, taking into account commute speed, affordability, and waiting time, among others. (Luna, 2022).

To address the country's urban mobility challenges, I would propose a bill to modernize public transportation, centered around an all-in-one mobile application. The Department of Transportation will be tasked with executing and overseeing this effort. The mobile application aims to help commuters conveniently navigate public transportation vehicles and plan their journeys ahead of time.

Integrating different modes of transportation in a single application gives commuters various alternative routes and options to take into consideration. The application will provide a tracking device for available public utility vehicles (PUVs). It will contain real-time information on schedules, delays, routes, fares, and other commuter-related announcements and updates. Most importantly, seat availability will be provided in the mobile application. Commuters will know the estimated number of people in the station or vehicle at a given time. This may reduce congestion on crowded routes, especially during rush hour. Other features include integrated payment systems, journey planning, community forums, and the like. To advertise the use of public transportation, a point-card or app system and other exclusive promotions and discounts will be offered to its users. Revenue garnered from the mobile application, including but not limited to advertisements and private partnerships, will be invested in public utility vehicles.

Furthermore, the data generated by this application will be utilized for crowd monitoring and management. The government can also use the information for research purpose and for policy making. This all-in-one transit mobile application also complements House Bill 4913, or the “Universal Beep Card Bill,” which aims to streamline the payment system for public transportation. (Quismorio, 2022)

References

Luna, F. (2022) Metro Manila public transportation among the worst in the world: study. Philstar Global. https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2022/11/25/2226400/metro-manila-public-transportation-among-worst-world-study

Quismorio, E. (2022)  Vargas bill to make universal 'beep cards' a reality. Manila Bulletin. https://mb.com.ph/2022/09/26/vargas-bill-to-make-universal-beep-cards-a-reality/

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Section 26, Article II, of the 1987 Constitution provides "the State shall guarantee equal access to opportunities for public service and prohibit political dynasties as may be defined by law."

This provision clearly shows the intent of the framers to prohibit political dynasties, or the concentration of governmental power into persons that are related to each other. However, such provision is a non self-executing provision. It requires further legislation in order to be applied by the courts.

The fact that the Constitution became effective in 1987, and up until now, there is no law defining the above-cited provision, only shows that our legislator continuously delay such legislation. Especially that our country is known for having dynastic clans which are too many to mention.

Suppose that I am a member of the congress, one of my focus would be passing a bill that will finally make Section 26 effective. On the other hand, I will express my full support and effort to such existing bills in the congress so that it can be finally passed into law.

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Boosting Philippine Tourism and Improving the Economy: Amending the Local Government Code to create the position of a Local Tourism Officer

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Boosting Philippine Tourism and Improving the Economy: Amending the Local Government Code to create the position of a Local Tourism Officer

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For an archipelagic country boasting beautiful mountain ridges, beaches, culture, flaura and faunas, and gastronomy, tourism could be an integral part of its economy. It is no wonder then, that tourism is an integral part of the Philippine economy.

The PSA reported that the tourism sector's contribution to the Philippine economy grew from 6.2 percent in 2022 to 8.6 percent in 2023. In March 2024, the Department of Tourism recorded 1.2 million international visitors to the country - a significant 22.86 percent increase from the previous year, recording 999,390 visitor arrivals last March 2023. With the world's shift to regular programming during the end of COVID-19, it is essential then that the growth and development of the Philippines' tourism sector be supported to contribute to the government efforts of poverty reduction, job generation, inclusive growth, and sustainable development.

The amendment proposes that the tourism safeguards of the Republic Act No. 9593, otherwise known as "The Tourism Act of 2009", be reflected and integrated into the Local Government Code or Republic Act 7160 - to create employment opportunities & promote tourism in each city and/or municipality. The amendment intends to amend RA 7160, and ensure the role of tourism officers in each city, municipality, or province, and increase government support for the growth of the tourism sector.

The position of a Local Tourism Officer could require marketing, public administration, and civil service qualifications to further leverage on the tourism sector's growth, and to cultivate promotion of the different strands of Philippine culture and gastronomy, essentially boosting the country's soft power.

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An Act Ensuring the Job Security  and Intellectual Property of Writers In Relation to the Use of AI in the Creatives Industry

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An Act Ensuring the Job Security  and Intellectual Property of Writers In Relation to the Use of AI in the Creatives Industry

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The adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI), while offering exciting possibilities in the creative sector, raises concerns about its impact on writers' jobs and intellectual property rights. For instance, the 2023 Writers Guild of America (WGA) strike highlighted the problem of writers' livelihood concern in the United States. Writers' play a crucial role in the industry, stemming from journalism to scriptwriting. There should be more safeguards against the misuse of AI and a pro-active approach to balancing the interests of management and writers. Hence, there should be "An Act Ensuring the Job Security and Intellectual property of Writers In Relation to the Use of AI in the Creatives Industry."

The ability of of AI to learn and produce content vast amount of data creates an ambiguity regarding copyright. When AI generates content, tracing the origin becomes difficult, potentially infringing upon existing copyrights. There shall be an establishment of clear guidelines for copyright of content produced by AI. A clearer legal framework shall be made to foster trust in the industry.

On the other hand, the Labor Code allows management to terminate employees on the ground of labor-saving devices. AI as a labor saving device, could be used as a justification to terminate writers' leading to job displacement. This creates job insecurity within the industry. There should be minimum standards on the use of AI in labor to facilitate employment. This provides a baseline or boundary for companies to still practice management prerogative while balancing the interests of writers.

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While many proposals have been made in congress regarding the passing of a Divorce law, it seems that we are still very far off from actually seeing enactment. Many Filipinos still oppose to the change citing Church Doctrines against divorce and separation of man and wife. Respectfully, I think those people might have forgotten that they do not have to avail of such proceedings. Divorce does not necessarily invalidate their Christian beliefs. On the contrary, it may even strengthen them and urge people to be more contemplative and spiritual.

There are many people who would greatly benefit from having this remedy available to them. Although annulment is an option, it is very difficult to prove the need thereof and it takes quite a long time that not many of the people who actually need them have.

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An Act Amending the Mental Health Law (R.A. No. 11036)

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An Act Amending the Mental Health Law (R.A. No. 11036)

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Mental health is a universal human right.

The rising mental health crisis in the Philippines necessitates viewing mental health as a matter of great importance. The Mental Health Law was a significant step towards enhancing and making mental health services accessible. However, there is a substantial gap between the law’s intended purpose and its actual achievement of objectives.

To further strengthen the Mental Health Law, the following amendments are proposed:

1. Free Access to Mental Health Services for Initial Consultations

Current Situation: The National Center for Mental Health (NCMH) charges approximately ₱400-500 per consultation. Given the minimum wage in Metro Manila is ₱570/day for non-agricultural workers, this cost is prohibitive for many.

Proposed Amendment: To enhance accessibility, the first three consultations at NCMH should be free of charge. Subsequent consultation fees should be reduced to make ongoing mental health care more affordable.

2. Addressing the Shortage of Mental Health Practitioners

Current Situation: There is a critical shortage of psychologists and psychiatrists in the Philippines. With approximately 1600 psychologists and 500 psychiatrists serving around 110 million people, access to mental health professionals is severely limited. The World Health Organization highlights that there is only 1 psychiatrist and 1 psychiatric nurse for every 200,000 Filipinos and 1 psychologist for every 1 million people.

Proposed Amendment: The Department of Health (DOH), in collaboration with the Department of Education (DEPED) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), should actively promote careers in mental health. This initiative will help increase the number of trained mental health practitioners.

3. Ensuring a Continuous and Adequate Budget

Current Situation: In 2023, the budget for the mental health program under the DOH was ₱1.9 billion. However, the 2024 National Expenditure Program (NEP) proposes only ₱683 million. Despite mental health being a top priority in the DOH Action Agenda, the significant decrease in budget allocation suggests otherwise.

Proposed Amendment: A continuous and increasing budget allocation is essential for the improvement and expansion of mental health services and programs. This will ensure the sustainability and enhancement of mental health care accessibility across the country.

Strengthening the Mental Health Law through these amendments will bridge the gap between the law's objectives and the current realities of mental health care in the Philippines.

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My inspiration behind this act is the situation in COVID-19 Pandemic wherein some same-sex households weren't able to receive the humanitarian aid in a specific city because they were not considered as a couple as defined by the Philippine Law.

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Purpose: To ensure equitable distribution of humanitarian aid to all households, including same-sex couples, during calamities, disasters, or emergencies.

Main Provisions:

1. Same-sex households must be recognized. This provision states that for the purpose of this law, a household is defined as individuals living together in a domestic relationship, irrespective of their gender or sexual orientation. Same-sex couples living together in a domestic partnership will be recognized as a household unit eligible for humanitarian aid. This recognition is essential to ensure that all households, regardless of the sexual orientation of their members, are eligible for and can receive aid during emergencies.

2. Aid must be distributed equitably. Humanitarian aid, including food, shelter, medical assistance, and other necessities, will be distributed equitably to all recognized households. The non-discrimination clause under this provision ensures that no individual or household will be discriminated against based on sexual orientation or gender identity in the distribution of aid. This provision guarantees that every household receives the support they need without prejudice.

3. Implementation and oversight are necessary. Relevant agencies responsible for disaster response and relief will ensure the implementation of this act. An oversight committee will be established to monitor the distribution of aid and address any complaints of discrimination. This committee will be tasked with ensuring that the aid distribution process is fair and that any issues of discrimination or inequality are promptly addressed.

4. Public awareness campaigns must be conducted. The government will conduct public awareness campaigns to educate the public and relief workers about the rights of same-sex households under this law. These campaigns are crucial in promoting understanding and acceptance of the new provisions, ensuring that relief workers are properly trained and that the public is informed about the inclusivity measures in place.

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An Act Amending the Family Code of the Philippines in Recognition of Marriage Equality regardless of SOGIESC

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An Act Amending the Family Code of the Philippines in Recognition of Marriage Equality regardless of SOGIESC

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As asserted by Justice Leonen in Falcis, III v. Civil Registrar General, the question of same-sex marriage in relation to the Family Code should be debated upon in the marketplace of ideas and lobbied in the political and representative institutions of the Republic, such as Congress. In this regard, for same-sex marriage to be legislated, E.O. 209, s. 1987 or the Family Code of the Philippines needs to be amended. Foremost, Art. I defining marriage as "a special contract of permanent union between a man and a woman" needs to be revised in favor of a definition that does not limit marriage in the heteronormative sense.

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An Act Increasing Accessibility to Menstrual Hygiene Management

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An Act Increasing Accessibility to Menstrual Hygiene Management

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Women have always been put at a disadvantage mostly because of biological features that are beyond their control. Aside from having to endure excruciating pains during childbirth, women are troubled by menstruation and the pain that it usually comes along with that lasts for about 3-7 days. For a few days, women are burdened with the need to address their feminine hygiene concerns at their personal expense. Menstruation is an involuntary process that the female body goes through and demands a corresponding hygienic response.

An average female spends about P1,260.00 annually for feminine hygiene products which are supposedly necessities but are considered by some as a luxury. Considering that poverty incidence in the Philippines is at 21.6% as of 2015, the additional expense of having to pay for a sufficient amount sanitary napkins for once cycle in a month, adds up to the cost that women cover.

The affordability of feminine hygiene products is in question along with the tax attached to it. Women should not be charged just for being women. Women should be given free access to proper menstrual hygiene management products that are necessary for their well-being.

Improper menstrual hygiene management puts women at risk of infections. Menstrual hygiene management (MHM) is a taboo topic in the Philippines which is why most women just live with the inconvenience and extra costs of being a woman.

This act proposes that free sanitary napkins be made readily available in public restrooms within the city. Public restrooms in public institutions, particularly in schools, hospitals, and government offices, shall be able to provide basic hygiene necessities such as water for flushing and hand washing, toilet paper, and hand soap in public restrooms as per Presidential Decree 856 or the “Code on Sanitation of the Philippines”. Included in the list of basic necessities should be sanitary napkins for women.

The budget for the procurement of sanitary napkins for this policy shall come from the 5% of the IRA received by the local government which shall be used for programs for gender and development. It does not only aim to provide free basic necessities for women but also to remove the stigma on proper menstruation hygiene management. It also solves the question of affordability for feminine hygiene products especially for women low-income families who cannot afford proper menstrual hygiene management.

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Road Safety and Efficient Traffic Management Act

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Road Safety and Efficient Traffic Management Act

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The purpose of this bill is to enhance road safety and traffic efficiency by addressing issues related to improper loading and unloading by PUVs, unsafe driving behaviors, reckless driving, and other traffic violations. The category of 'unsafe driving behaviors' would specifically target reckless driving behaviors, including motorcycle swerving and bus swerving.

Key provisions of this bill would tackle:

1. Developing and implementing advanced traffic management systems that include real-time monitoring, intelligent traffic signals, and adaptive traffic flow technologies.

2. Implementing stricter regulations and heavier penalties to prevent dangerous driving behaviors by vehicles, including mandatory adherence to lane discipline and enforcement of safe riding practices.

3. Establishing and enforcing designated loading and unloading areas for PUVs to prevent them from stopping in unauthorized places, which can cause traffic congestion and accidents, as well as implementing stricter enforcement of regulations and including heavier fines and penalties for violations.

4. Enhancing driver education programs to include training on road safety, efficient driving techniques, and adherence to traffic regulations.

And the likes.

The bill aims to improve enforcement and impose stricter penalties to ensure better compliance with traffic regulations. It seeks to improve traffic management through advanced technologies, stricter regulations, and coordinated efforts between national and local authorities.

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At the moment, abortion is still highly illegal in the Philippines. As stated in the Revised Penal Code, Act No. 3815, Art. 258 "the penalty of prision correccional in its medium and maximum periods shall be imposed upon a woman who shall practice abortion upon herself or shall consent that any other person should do so."

I would like to believe there are legitimate reasons as to why one woman would seek abortion, such as going through a traumatic event of rape or if they are medically not in the best state to carry on with the pregnancy. If abortion were to be decriminalized, many women would not have to go through with their lives raising a child that was born out of rape or there would not be women who are forced to carry out a pregnancy even if it meant it would greatly risk their health. Additionally, decriminalizing abortion would refrain women seeking abortion from risking their lives further by attempting other methods to induce abortion (such as by intaking pills that are not regulated by qualified doctors, or by physically harming themselves to induce it).

Of course, if this were to be passed in the future, it should come with very strict guidelines to follow. Abortion should only be allowed if they are done in a proper environment by qualified doctors. Abortion should also only be done under certain circumstances, such as during the earlier phases of a pregnancy or (if other legislators would like to choose) only if the pregnancy is the result of rape.

The passing of this law can also be partnered with an establishment in the Philippines that is similar to the Planned Parenthood non-profit organization in the US. Women should be given resources that can help them in their sexual healthcare. In the US, Planned Parenthood not only provides safe abortion methods, but they also provide women with sexual education regarding available protection methods against unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases.

Women deserve bodily autonomy, to have the opportunity to choose what would be best for them. No one should be forced to go through a pregnancy if that is not what they want, or if they are not in the right capacity to go through it. Children who are results of unwanted pregnancies tend to grow up neglected, and they do not deserve that.

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An Act Requiring Subjects in Financial Literacy and Personal Finance in K-12 Basic Education Curriculum

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An Act Requiring Subjects in Financial Literacy and Personal Finance in K-12 Basic Education Curriculum

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According to the World Bank, only 25% of the Philippine population is financially literate. In the third year of my undergraduate studies, many financial management requisites and electives were made available to the student body. However, I, like many of my peers often steered far from such classes due to its perceived complexity. But still wanting to understand more financial concepts, I opted to take the class. Many seemingly daunting financial concepts were turned into basic and elementary topics. Such an experience made me realize how handling money is a necessary life skill. The earlier individuals are introduced to these concepts, the sooner one can develop good money habits affecting the trajectory of their life's economic path.

As part of the Legislature, I would draft and pass a bill that incorporates Financial Literacy and Personal Finance classes in the K-12 curriculum.

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An Act Regulating the Use of Artificial Intelligence

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An Act Regulating the Use of Artificial Intelligence

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Artificial Intelligence is gaining its ground in many different fields. One in particular and of grave concern, is the arts.

Being that AI programs that generate "works" of art often source their images from existing art on the internet made by various creative artists, it raises much concern about on the matter of intellectual property. Can we call a computer program a thief, and hold it liable for breaching intellectual property?

Further, different fields have already grown to accept this new wave of artificial intelligence, even going as far as to use it for their various functions. What is the legality behind, say for example, a marketing material that used AI to generate its visuals and write its content, knowing that AI generators often source their visuals from already existing, and privately owned, works?

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Increasing the Penalty for Violation of the Animal Welfare Act

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Increasing the Penalty for Violation of the Animal Welfare Act

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I would increase the penalty for violations of the Animal Welfare Act. Currently, the Act punishes offender of this Act for only a fine of at least 1,000-50,000 PHP or imprisonment of at least 6 months to 2 years. If the Court were to punish the offender of only a fine, those of the upper class can easily pay the fine without any effect on them financially. The purpose of retribution would not be achieved.

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An Act on Legalizing Abortions for Rape Cases

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An Act on Legalizing Abortions for Rape Cases

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It is unjust that women are expected to bear the responsibility of a child let alone the burden of pregnancy when the act of sexual intercourse that preceded it was not consensual. As of now, there are no existing provisions that allow for abortions in rape cases. Under the Revised Penal Code of the Philippines, Article 256, it reads: "The penalty of prision mayor and a fine not exceeding 5,000 pesos shall be imposed upon any person who shall deliberately and intentionally procure an abortion, unless the abortion was performed by a physician to save the life of the mother." This law serves to protect the freedom of choice of victims of grotesque malice.

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Up until 2022, the age of sex consent in the Philippines was 12 years old, which was one of the lowest ages of consent worldwide. This meant that a child attending grade six of elementary school could consent to sexual activities, or worse, be coerced into doing them and forced to stay silent. It was just recently changed to 16 years old when former President Rodrigo Duterte signed the bill into law.

While this is an improvement, it is critical to emphasize that 16 years old is still a minor. Seven out of 10 rape victims are children, and one in every five minors aged 13 to 17 experiences sexual violence, according to a study by UNICEF. With the alarming number of rape cases in the Philippines concerning minors, it would only be responsible to raise the sexual age of consent to 18 to ensure that both consenting parties are adults.

I would propose that it would be illegal to engage in sexual activities with anyone below 18 years old unless the age gap between parties is 3 years apart or less. This protects all children and minors and fosters a healthy environment for them to learn and grow. This law would aim to lower and hopefully eventually eradicate child molestation and rape cases in our country.

Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2022/03/07/asia/philippines-age-of-sexual-consent-raised-intl-hnk/index.html#:~:text=Philippines%20President%20Rodrigo%20Duterte%20has,from%20rape%20and%20sexual%20abuse.

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Philippines raises age of sexual consent from 12 to 16 | CNN

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Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte has signed into law a bill that raises the minimum age of sexual consent from 12 to 16, his office said on Monday, in a bid to protect minors from rape and sexual abuse.

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An Act that utilizes Average Cost-of-Living and Expenses as basis for Minimum Wage

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An Act that utilizes Average Cost-of-Living and Expenses as basis for Minimum Wage

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The concept of minimum wage has always played a major role in the economic development of a society. For a third-world country like the Philippines, it pains me to see that living conditions have worsened due to the imbalance of living expenses as compared to the amount that workers earn during their 9-5s.

If I were to be a member of Congress, I would propose a bill that utilizes an objective, mathematically-based system that computes for the determination of minimum wage. To take into account not just the economical wellbeing of the country in its present time, but to also consider rates of consumption and the prices of necessary products. It is imperative that industry professionals that specialize in economics and math are asked of their opinion on what should be considered – especially since the creation of the bill would be extremely complicated. The main goal of my proposition would be to balance the ability of the people to avail of necessities for the purposes of living vis-a-vis the prices of commodities.

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An Act Converting All Pogo Hubs into Public Spaces and Housing

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An Act Converting All Pogo Hubs into Public Spaces and Housing

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With the recent conclusion of the 2024 SONA of Pres. Marcos Jr., the banning of POGOs was perhaps the most noteworthy portion of his perennial address.

Banning of POGOs would eventually mean the abandonment of many of their hubs and establishments. The government should seize this opportunity by converting some of them into productive facilities like schools, housing, and even parks.

This law can be likened to how the Bases Conversion Development Authority works i.e. by converting old US bases into productive economic hubs for the benefit of the LGU. The government should look to capitalize on the abandoned POGO hubs and turn them into something beneficial to both the local economy of the area and to the residents

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An Act Rehabilitating/Re-Creating Green-scapes in Metropolitan Areas 

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An Act Rehabilitating/Re-Creating Green-scapes in Metropolitan Areas 

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As I write my answer, the country is battling the effects of Typhoon Carina. While I am fortunate enough to be safe indoors, many of our countrymen are experiencing problems from the storms and floods. These experiences reinforce our need to rehabilitate our areas with more trees and plants, and our need to recognize that focusing our country’s development towards modern infrastructures might not always be better.

If I were to sit in Congress, I would propose a bill that would require infrastructure companies to incorporate ways in planting trees and greenery into their buildings. If it is not possible for them to do so, then they must be required to plant trees or double their contribution in planting trees within their nearby city/LGU. No new infrastructure should be approved for building unless they are able to incorporate planting trees or setting up greenscapes in their area.

Side note: this idea was inspired by R.A.N 10176 or the “Arbor Day Act of 2012”

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An act promoting and protecting Philippine culture, incorporating these in mediums such as urban planning and multimedia arts

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An act promoting and protecting Philippine culture, incorporating these in mediums such as urban planning and multimedia arts

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I would propose to enact a law urging the Filipino people to enrich Philippine culture in the country.

Rapid globalization is a phenomenon that should not and cannot be stopped as it helps the world's economies grow together. However, the government should take extra measures to ensure that our own culture is not erased because of this phenomenon. Korea and Thailand are examples of countries that have gone through globalization, but have stayed true to their cultural roots. This is seen through their television shows, tourist sites, and their overall urban planning.

With this, a Philippine law should once and for all promote our culture and heritage just as much in other countries.

Multimedia - our government agencies should look into the films we produce. It is important that there be some kind of approval or pitch process that producers go through and a criteria that should be followed. This means that the shows produced by our countrymen should reflect Filipino values and feature different cultural sites for the world to see. They must not lean to Western values as this removes who we really are as Filipino people.

Urban planning - new projects such as the Senate building or any government building should house Filipino art and design, to show that it is truly a government for the people. This shows Filipino and global citizens alike that we are proud of the artistry coming from our own people. Signs seen on streets may also have a Tagalog translation to show that speaking in Filipino should not be something that one should be ashamed of.

(G.P.)