journal no. 45 monday, thursday and friday,journal no. 45 monday, thursday and friday, may 24, 2004...

Journal No. 45Monday, Thursday and Friday, May 24, 2004 and June 10 to 11, 2004

CALL TO ORDERAt 4:00 p.m., Speaker Jose De Venecia, Jr. called the session to order.NATIONAL ANTHEM AND PRAYERPursuant to Section 71, Rule XI of the Rules of the House, the House Chorale led thesinging of the National Anthem. Thereafter, the Speaker asked the Members to remain standing in prayer for the country as the nation awaits the process of the national canvass by Congress.Thereafter, the Speaker recognized Rep. Clavel A. Martinez for her invocation: Most loving and righteous God, who knowest our deepest thoughts and divenest the purest longings of our hearts, look with mercy upon us. Save us from faithlessness and pride. Remind us of our inadequacy and assure us of Thy sufficiency.As we gather for another day of work, may we find pleasure in the thought that we are investing unto eternity a portion of our labor and of ourselves.

Help us, therefore, to bear the weight of our responsibility and to discharge our duties with a sense of mission, to keep our country and people in this chaotic and challenging time together. Help us to make decisions which will always make us proudof having done the same.May this be another day of fulfilling experiences, a glorious time of learning from one another and a precious moment in the life of our nation..

We pray in God's name.

Amen.SUSPENSION OF SESSIONWhereupon, on motion of Majority Leader Neptali M. Gonzales II, the Chair suspended the session at 4:04 p.m.RESUMPTION OF SESSION

At 4:05 p.m., the session was resumed.

ROLL CALLUpon direction of the Chair, the Secretary General called the Roll and the followingMembers were present:

Abad Del MarAbaya DilangalenAbayon DimaporoAguja DomoganAlfelor DuavitAlmario DumarpaAlvarez DumpitAmante DuranoAmin Dy (C.)Angara-Castillo Ermita-BuhainAntonino-Custodio EscuderoAquino (A.) EspinaAquino (B.) EspinoArbison Espinosa (Edgar)Badelles Espinosa (Emilio)Banaag EstrellaBarinaga FailonBaterina FalconBautista (J.V.) FloirendoBernardo-Lokin Garcia (E.)Bersamin Garcia (V.)Bondoc GonzalesBulut Gonzalez (R.)

Cabilao GordonCagas GozosCajes GullasCari JaafarCastro JalaCayetano Jalosjos-CarreonCeleste JaraulaChatto JavierChavez JoaquinChiongbian JosonChipeco KintanarChungalao Lagman-LuistroCojuangco (M.) LanotCruz-Ducut LibananCua LocsinCuenco Lopez (J.)Dadivas Lopez (R.)De Guzman MacarambonDe Venecia MaciasDeduro MadambaDefensor (A.) MagtuboDefensor (Ma. T.) MalanyaonMamba Sandoval (V.)Marcos SantiagoMartinez SeñeresMitra SingsonMoreno SolisNachura Soon-RuizNicolas SuarezNieva SumulongNograles Sy-AlvaradoOcampo SyjucoOlaño Taganas LayusPablo Taliño-SantosParas TevesPerez TulaganPichay Umali (Aurelio)Pingoy UnicoPlaza Uy (E.)Ramirez-Sato Uy (R.)Ramiro ValdezReal VelardeRemulla VelosoReyes (V.) VicencioRoco VillanuevaRodriguez (I.) VillarRodriguez (O.) VillaramaRoman ViradorRomualdo WacnangRosales YaphaSalapuddin YlaganSalceda Zamora (M.)Saludo Zamora (R.)San Juan ZialcitaSandoval (F.)

With 155 Members responding to the Roll Call, the Chair declared the presence of a quorum.

The following Members appeared after the Roll Call:

Ablan GunigundoAncheta Hataman

Andaya HizonAngping IpongBaculio LacsonBautista (C.) LanotBiazon LapuzBueser LedesmaCalderon LevisteCalizo LozadaCariño MontillaCruz (B.) NantesEcleo NepomucenoEspinosa (V.) PunzalanFuentebella SarenasGranada SilverioSuplico ZubiriUmali (Alfonso V.)REFERENCE OF BUSINESSOn motion of Rep. Gonzales, there being no objection, the Body proceeded to the Reference of Business.Upon direction of the Chair, the Secretary General read on First Reading the titles of the following Resolutions, including the Messages from the President and Committee Reports, which were referred to the appropriate Committees as hereunder indicated:RESOLUTIONSHouse Resolution No. 1478, entitled:“RESOLUTION EXPRESSING UTMOST FAITH, UNQUALIFIED SUPPORT, AND WHOLEHEARTED PATRONAGETO DR. EMILIO T. YAP, CHAIRMAN, MANILA BULLETIN PUBLISHING CORPORATION; THE MANILA BULLETIN ITSELF AND ITS SISTER PUBLICATIONS; PRESIDENT DR. ANDREW G. GONZALES; VICE PRESIDENT EMILIO C. YAP III; PUBLISHER NAPOLEON G. RAMA; EDITOR CRISPULO J. ICBAN, JR.; NEWS EDITOR DIEGO C. CAGAHASTIAN, AND THE SECTION EDITORS AND DESKMEN ON THE OCCASION OF THEIR 104TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION”By Representatives Punzalan, Gozos, Abaya, Estrella, Sumulong, Duavit, Nepomuceno, Baterina, Torres, Reyes (V.), Wacnang, Apostol, Clarete, Libanan, Ancheta, Bernardo-Lokin, Bautista (J.), Amin, Velarde, Almario, Sarenas, Rosales, Malanyaon, Ocampo, Defensor (A.), Nograles, Macarambon, Joson, Dy (C.), Espinosa (E.R.), Calderon, Espino, San Juan, Roco, Tulagan, Alvarez, Dangwa, Solis, Chungalao, Yapha, Chatto, Dimaporo, Bacani, Perez, Dilangalen, Carloto, Arbison, Matalam, Codilla, Castro, Villareal, Umali (A.M.), Seachon, Bueser, Abayon and Dy (F.)TO THE COMMITTEE ON RULESHouse Resolution No. 1479, entitled:“RESOLUTION CALLING FOR THE IMMEDIATE SUSPENSION OF COL. FERNANDO MESA, COMMANDING OFFICER OF THE 204TH INFANTRY BRIGADE IN MINDORO AND THE PULL-OUT OF THE ENTIRE SAIDUNIT IN THE AREA IN THE WAKE OF THE CONDEMNABLE SUMMARY EXECUTION LAST FEBRUARY 13, 2004 IN NAUJAN, ORIENTAL MINDORO OF NAUJAN VICE-MAYOR ATTY. JUVY MAGSINO, A HUMAN RIGHTS LAWYER, BAYAN MUNA FOUNDING MEMBER IN MINDORO, LAKAS MAYORALTY BET AND BAYAN MUNA-ENDORSED CANDIDATE FOR THE 2004 POLLS, AND LEIMA FORTU, A TEACHER, KARAPATAN-MINDORO ORIENTAL SECRETARY-GENERAL AND BAYAN MUNA MINDORO DISTRICT COORDINATOR, ALLEGEDLY BY AGENTS OF THE 204TH IB SHORTLY AFTER DEATH THREATS WERE RECEIVED BY MAGSINO THAT SHE WAS TARGETED FOR ASSASINATION ON OR BEFORE FEBRUARY 15, 2004 WHICH SHE PROMPTLY REPORTED TO THE PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE IN THEIR AREA BUT WAS NOT GIVEN ANY APPROPRIATE ACTION, AND IN VIEW OF NUMEROUS OTHER CASES OF SUMMARY EXECUTIONS AND OTHER GROSS HUMAN RIGHTS VIOLATIONS LONG ATTRIBUTED TO THE SAID MILITARY UNIT SINCE ITS DEPLOYMENT IN MINDORO IN MAY 2001”By Representatives Ocampo, Virador and DeduroTO THE COMMITTEE ON NATIONAL DEFENSEHouse Resolution No. 1480, entitled:“RESOLUTION DECLARING THE EXCESS LEFT PORTION OF BONI SERRANO AVENUE (FORMERLY SANTOLAN ROAD) GOING TO EPIFANIO DELOS SANTOS AVENUE (EDSA) WHERE THE LAND TRANSPORTATION OFFICE (LTO) AND FIRE STATION OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF SAN JUAN IS LOCATED AS PART AND PARCEL OF QUEZON CITY”By Representative Castelo DazaTO THE COMMITTEE ON LOCAL GOVERNMENT

House Concurrent Resolution No. 27, entitled:“CONCURRENT RESOLUTION CONCURRING WITH THE POSTHUMOUS CONFERMENT BY HER EXCELLENCY GLORIA MACAPAGAL-ARROYO, PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES, OF THE QUEZON SERVICE CROSS ON THE LATE BENIGNO SIMEON S. AQUINO, JR. ON RIZAL DAY, 2003”By Representatives De Venecia and NachuraTO THE COMMITTEE ON RULESHouse Concurrent Resolution No. 30, entitled:“CONCURRENT RESOLUTION PROVIDING THAT THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES AND THE SENATE HOLD A JOINT PUBLIC SESSION TO CANVASS THE VOTES CAST FOR PRESIDENT AND VICE PRESIDENT IN THE NATIONAL ELECTIONS HELD ON MAY 10, 2004 AND PROCLAIM THE PRESIDENT-ELECT AND VICE PRESIDENT ELECT”By Representatives Gonzales II and PadillaTO THE COMMITTEE ON RULESADDITIONAL COAUTHORWith the permission of the Body, Rep. Ernesto “Banzai” Nieva was made coauthor of House Resolution No. 1478.MESSAGES FROM THE PRESIDENTMALACAÑAN PALACEMANILAFebruary 6, 2004HON. FRANKLIN M. DRILONSenate PresidentPhilippine SenatePasay CityDear Senate President Drilon:Pursuant to the provisions of Article VI, Section 26 (2) of the 1987 Constitution, Ihereby certify to the necessity of the immediate enactment of Senate Bill No. 2580, under Committee Report No. 379, entitled:“AN ACT EXTENDING THE TERM OF BARANGAY OFFICIALS AND THE SETTING OF THE DATE OF THE ELECTION OF BARANGAY OFFICIALS, AMENDING REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9164,”

to address the urgent need of ensuring the continuity of the programs of incumbent barangay officials by giving them adequate time to realize and complete their plans thus preserve communities-in-process, conserve government’s limited resources and provide better constituency-services.

Best wishes.

Very truly yours,

(SGD.) GLORIA MACAPAGAL-ARROYO

cc: HON. JOSE C. DE VENECIA, JR.SpeakerHouse of RepresentativesQuezon City

TO THE COMMITTEE ON RULES

MALACAÑAN PALACEMANILA

February 6, 2004

HON. FRANKLIN M. DRILONSenate PresidentPhilippine SenatePasay City

Dear Senate President Drilon:

Pursuant to the provisions of Article VI, Section 26 (2) of the 1987 Constitution, Ihereby certify to the necessity of the immediate enactment of Senate Bill No. 2698,

under Committee Report No. 336, entitled:

“AN ACT AMENDING CERTAIN SECTIONS OF REPUBLIC ACT NUMBERED SEVENTY-EIGHT HUNDRED ANDTHIRTY-SIX (R.A. NO. 7836), OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE PHILIPPINE TEACHERS PROFESSIONALIZATION ACT OF 1994,”

to address the urgent need of ensuring the country’s quality of education as well the quantity of the teaching force by instituting measures such as eligibility examinations to benefit and attract our balik-teacher OCWs.

Best wishes.

Very truly yours,

(SGD.) GLORIA MACAPAGAL-ARROYOcc: HON. JOSE C. DE VENECIA, JR.SpeakerHouse of RepresentativesQuezon City



February 5, 2004


Dear Senate President:

Pursuant to the provisions of Article VI, Section 26 (2) of the 1987 Constitution, Ihereby certify to the necessity of the immediate enactment of Senate Bill No. 2733, under Committee Report No. 420, entitled:

“AN ACT ESTABLISHING A SPECIAL AGRO-INDUSTRIAL ZONE IN THE PROVINCE OF ISABELA, CREATING FOR THIS PURPOSE THE ISABELA SPECIAL AGRO-INDUSTRIAL ZONE AUTHORITY, APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES,”

to address the urgent need of hastening the promotion of the government’s rural development efforts to provide employment therein thus stem the inexorable emigration to urban areas.

Best wishes.

Very truly yours,



TO THE COMMITTEE ON RULESMALACAÑAN PALACEMANILA

February 5, 2004

HON. JOSE C. DE VENECIA, JR.SpeakerHouse of RepresentativesQuezon City

Dear Speaker de Venecia:

Pursuant to the provisions of Article VI, Section 26 (2) of the 1987 Constitution, Ihereby certify to the necessity of the immediate enactment of House Bill No. 6625, under Committee Report No. 1945, entitled:

“AN ACT INSTITUTIONALIZING NEWBORN SCREENING AS PART OF ROUTINE NEWBORN CARE IN NATIONWIDE HEALTH DELIVERY SYSTEM OF THE PHILIPPINES,”

to address the urgent need to ensure the well-being of its citizenry starting from the womb as mandated by our Constitution.

Best wishes.

Very truly yours,


cc: HON. FRANKLIN M. DRILONSenate PresidentPhilippine SenatePasay City



February 5, 2004




“AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE MAGNA CARTA FOR SOCIAL WORKERS AND SOCIAL WELFARE AND DEVELOPMENT WORKERS AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES,”

to address the urgent need of ensuring the continuing enhancement of the citizenry’swell-being through the promotion of social change and problem-solving in human relationship, the empowerment and liberation of people by fully equipping social workers, social welfare and development workers.

Best wishes.

Very truly yours,


cc: HON. JOSE C. DE VENECIA, JR.SpeakerHouse of Representatives

Quezon City



Febbruary 5, 2004

HON. FRANKLIN M. DRILONSenate PresidentPhilippine SenatePasay CityDear Senate President Drilon:Pursuant to the provisions of Article VI, Section 26 (2) of the 1987 Constitution, Ihereby certify to the necessity of the immediate enactment of Senate Bill No. 2747, under Committee Report No. 426, entitled:“AN ACT RESTORING THE TAX EXEMPTION OF OFFSHORE BANKING UNITS (OBUs) AND FOREIGN CURRENCY DEPOSIT UNITS (FCDUs), AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SECTION 27, (D)(3) AND SECTION 28, PARAGRAPHS (A)(4) AND (A)(7) (B) OF THE NATIONAL INTERNAL REVENUE CODE, AS AMENDED,”

to address the public emergency consisting of the possible capital flight and the imminent loss of our foreign direct investments because of increasing cost burdens not addressed by existing tax measures. Hence, the urgent need to restore the tax exemption of Offshore Banking Units (OBUs) and Foreign Currency Deposit Units (FCDUs) for them to effectively facilitate the flow of funds and investments into the country and provide a buffer to maintain stability in the currency market.

Best wishes.

Very truly yours,





February 6, 2004




“AN ACT STRENGTHENING THE REGULATORY CAPACITY OF THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH IN QUARANTINE AND INTERNATIONAL HEALTH SURVEILLANCE REPEALING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 123 OF 1947, AS AMENDED,”

to address the urgent need of instituting quarantine measures to prevent the

introduction, transmission or spread of communicable and infectious diseases such asthe deadly Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) virus thereby effectively ensuring public health.

Best wishes.

Very truly yours,


cc: HON. FRANKLIN M. DRILONSenate PresidentPhilippine SenateTO THE COMMITTEE ON RULES


February 5, 2004

HON. FRANKLIN M. DRILONSenate PresidentPhilippine SenatePasay CityDear Senate President Drilon:


“AN ACT PROMOTING THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE FOOTWEAR, LEATHER GOODS AND TANNERY INDUSTRIES, PROVIDING INCENTIVES THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES,”to address the urgent need of ensuring the competitiveness of aforesaid small and medium industries to make them more viable in the face of worldwide stiff challenges.

Best wishes.

Very truly yours,




February 6, 2004




“AN ACT FURTHER AMENDING PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 198, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS ‘THE PROVINCIAL WATER UTILITIES ACT OF 1973’, AS AMENDED,”

to address the urgent need to ensure the viability of the water districts throughoutthe country through the increased capitalization of the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) thus effectively deliver said public utility nationwide.

Best wishes.

Very truly yours,





February 23, 2004

HON. FRANKLIN M. DRILONSenate PresidentPhilippine SenatePasay CityDear Senate President Drilon:Pursuant to the provisions of Article VI, Section 26 (2) of the 1987 Constitution, Ihereby certify to the necessity of the immediate enactment of House Bill No. 6062, entitled:

“AN ACT CONVERTING THE ISAAC LOPEZ ELEMENTARY SCHOOL IN MANDALUYONG CITY INTO AN INTEGRATED SCHOOL TO BE KNOWN AS THE ISAAC LOPEZ INTEGRATED SCHOOL AND APPROPRIATINGFUNDS THEREFOR,”

to address the urgent need of providing relevant education in the context of changing global and domestic demands and in response to burgeoning student population thus serve our nation-building efforts.

Best wishes.

Very truly yours,





February 6, 2004

HON. FRANKLIN M. DRILONSenate President

Philippine SenatePasay City



“AN ACT CREATING THE MUNICIPALITY OF SAN ISIDRO IN THE PROVINCE OF DAVAO DEL NORTE,”

to address the strong clamor of the constituents for the attainment of the fullest development as self reliant community thus, accelerating economic development and upgrading the quality of life for the people in the community.

Best wishes.

Very truly yours,





February 6, 2004




“AN ACT NAMING THE NATIONAL ROAD FROM THE INTERSECTON OF GOVERNOR CAMINS ROAD AND VETERANS AVENUE UP TO LICOMO IN THE CITY OF ZAMBOANGA TO MARIA CLARA L. LOBREGAT HIGHWAY,”

to address the urgent need of filling the dearth of contemporary heroines who can inspire the young and old and people of various persuasions to be a person for others, ever in Filipiniana, a nationalist at heart and in action, such was the esteemed Congresswoman, hence, this everyday reminder to do good through a highway..

Best wishes.

Very truly yours,

(SGD.) GLORIA MACAPAGAL-ARROYOcc: HON. JOSE C. DE VENECIA, JR.SpeakerHouse of RepresentativesQuezon City



February 6, 2004




“AN ACT CONVERTING THE MARIKINA INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY (MIST) INTO THE MARIKINA POLYTECHNIC COLLEGE (MPC), DEFINING ITS POWERS, FUNCTIONS, AND DUTIES, APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES,”

to address the urgent need of providing relevant education that is attuned to the changing global as well as domestic demands for employment, thus serve nation-building efforts.

Best wishes.

Very truly yours,




February 6, 2004




“AN ACT CONVERTING THE MUNICIPALITY OF STA. ROSA IN THE PROVINCE OF LAGUNA INTO A COMPONENT CITY TO BE KNOWN AS THE CITY OF STA. ROSA,”

to address the urgent need to be effectively relevant in the face of meeting the needs of increasing population, modernization, and economic development in the countryside.

Best wishes.

Very truly yours,





February 6, 2004

HON. FRANKLIN M. DRILONSenate PresidentPhilippine SenatePasay CityDear Senate President Drilon:Pursuant to the provisions of Article VI, Section 26 (2) of the 1987 Constitution, Ihereby certify to the necessity of the immediate enactment of House Bill No. 6656, under Committee Report No. 404, entitled:“AN ACT CREATING THE SECOND LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT OF THE CITY OF ZAMBOANGA,”to address the bourgeoning lpopulace’s strong clamor to be effectively represented thus attain the development of a self-reliant community, upgrading the quality of life therein and accelerating economic growth thereby, producing a multiplier effecttowards countryside development.Best wishes.Very truly yours, (SGD.) GLORIA MACAPAGAL-ARROYOcc: HON. JOSE C. DE VENECIA, JR.SpeakerHouse of RepresentativesQuezon CityTO THE COMMITTEE ON RULESCOMMITTEE REPORTSReport by the Committees on Higher and Technical Education, Appropriations and Ways and Means (Committee Report No. 2078), re H. No. 6701, entitled:“AN ACT CONVERTING THE POLYTECHNIC STATE COLLEGE OF ANTIQUE (PSCA) IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF SIBALOM TOGETHER WITH ITS EXTENSION CAMPUSES: THE PSCA HAMTIC CAMPUS, AND THE PSCA TARIO-LIM RUIZ CAMPUS IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF TIBIAO, INTO A STATE UNIVERSITY, TO BE KNOWN AS THE STATE UNIVERSITY OF ANTIQUE, ALL MUNICIPALITIESLOCATED IN THE PROVINCE OF ANTIQUE, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”

recommending its approval in substitution of House Bill No. 5643.

Sponsors: Representatives Abayon, Andaya and Ledesma


Report by the Committee on Higher and Technical Education and the Committee on Appropriations (Committee Report No. 2079), re H. No. 6703, entitled:

“AN ACT CREATING THE KALILAYAN TECHNOLOGICAL INSTITUTE IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF UNISAN, PROVINCE OF QUEZON AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”


Sponsors: Representatives Abayon, Andaya and Suarez


Report by the Committee on Higher and Technical Education and the Committee on Appropriations (Committee Report No. 2080), re H. No. 6702, entitled:

“AN ACT CREATING THE JOLO FISHERIES TECHNICAL COLLEGE IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF JOLO, PROVINCE OF SULU AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”


Sponsors: Representatives Abayon, Andaya and Amin


Report by the Committees on Justice and Appropriations (Committee Report No. 2081), re H. No. 6704, entitled:

“AN ACT ESTABLISHING ADDITIONAL BRANCHES OF THE MUNICIPAL TRIAL COURT (MTC) IN THE MUNICIPALITIES OF LA TRINIDAD (BENGUET), BIÑAN (LAGUNA) AND PILAR (CEBU), AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SECTION 30 OF BATAS PAMBANSA BILANG 129, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE JUDICIARY REORGANIZATION ACT OF 1980, AS AMENDED, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”

recommending its approval in substitution of House Bills Numbered 5376, 5457 and 5866.

Sponsors: Representatives Libanan, Andaya, Durano, Dangwa and Joaquin

TO THE COMMITTEE ON RULESReport by the Committee on Basic Education and Culture and the Committee on Appropriations (Committee Report No. 2082), re H. No. 6705, entitled:

“AN ACT SEPARATING THE SOUTHERN LEYTE STATE COLLEGE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY (SLSCST) SECONDARY DEPARTMENT - HINUNANGAN CAMPUS IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF HINUNANGAN,PROVINCE OF SOUTHERN LEYTE, FROM THE SOUTHERN LEYTE STATE COLLEGE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, CONVERTING IT INTO AN INDEPENDENT NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL, TO BE KNOWN AS THE HINUNANGAN NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”

recommending its approval in substitution of House Bill No. 4056.Sponsors: Representatives Reyes (E.), Andaya and Saludo


Report by the Committee on Basic Education and Culture and the Committee on Appropriations (Committee Report No. 2083), re H. No. 6706, entitled:

“AN ACT ESTABLISHING A NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL IN BARANGAY PALANAS, MUNICIPALITY OF PILAR, PROVINCE OF SORSOGON, TO BE KNOWN AS THE PALANAS NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”


Sponsors: Representatives Reyes (E.), Andaya and Escudero

TO THE COMMITTEE ON RULESReport by the Committee on Basic Education and Culture and the Committee on Appropriations (Committee Report No. 2084), re H. No. 6707, entitled:

“AN ACT ESTABLISHING A NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL IN SITIO TINGCO, BARANGAY INAPUGAN, MUNICIPALITY OF PILAR, PROVINCE OF SORSOGON, TO BE KNOWN AS THE TINGCO NATIONAL HIGHSCHOOL, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”


Sponsors: Representatives Reyes (E.), Andaya and Escudero



“AN ACT ESTABLISHING A NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL IN BARANGAY CENTRAL, CALBAYOG CITY, PROVINCE OF SAMAR, TO BE KNOWN AS THE CALBAYOG CITY NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”recommending its approval in substitution of House Bill No. 4702.

Sponsors: Representatives Reyes (E.), Andaya and Uy (R.)



“AN ACT ESTABLISHING A NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL IN BARANGAY DIPINTIN, MUNICIPALITY OF MADDELA, PROVINCE OF QUIRINO, TO BE KNOWN AS THE DIPINTIN NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”


Sponsors: Representatives Reyes (E.), Andaya and Cua



“AN ACT ESTABLISHING A NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL IN BARANGAY PRESIDENT QUEZON, MUNICIPALITY OF LILOAN, PROVINCE OF SOUTHERN LEYTE, TO BE KNOWN AS THE PRESIDENT QUEZON NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”


Sponsors: Representatives Reyes (E.), Andaya and SaludoTO THE COMMITTEE ON RULES


“AN ACT ESTABLISHING A NATIONAL AGRICULTURAL HIGH SCHOOL IN BARANGAY SIKATUNA, MUNICIPALITY OF TALIBON, PROVINCE OF BOHOL, TO BE KNOWN AS THE SIKATUNA NATIONAL AGRICULTURAL HIGH SCHOOL, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”


Sponsors: Representatives Reyes (E.), Andaya and Cajes



“AN ACT ESTABLISHING A NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL IN BARANGAY BAGONG TANYAG, MUNICIPALITY OF TAGUIG, METRO MANILA, TO BE KNOWN AS THE BAGONG TANYAG NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”

recommending its approval in substitution of House Bill No. 5556.Sponsors: Representatives Reyes (E.), Andaya and Cayetano



“AN ACT ESTABLISHING A NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL IN BARANGAY SAN ISIDRO, MUNICIPALITY OF SAN LORENZO RUIZ, PROVINCE OF CAMARINES NORTE, TO BE KNOWN AS THE SAN ISIDRO NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”


Sponsors: Representatives Reyes (E.), Andaya and Unico



“AN ACT ESTABLISHING A NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL IN BARANGAY SIGNAL VILLAGE, MUNICIPALITYOF TAGUIG, METRO MANILA, TO BE KNOWN AS THE PRESIDENT DIOSDADO MACAPAGAL NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”


Sponsors: Representatives Reyes (E.), Andaya and Cayetano



“AN ACT ESTABLISHING A NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL IN BARANGAY MASAGUISI, MUNICIPALITY OF STA. CRUZ, PROVINCE OF MARINDUQUE, TO BE KNOWN AS THE MASAGUISI NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”


Sponsors: Representatives Reyes (E.) and Andaya


Report by the Committee on Public Works and Highways and the Committee on Appropriations (Committee Report No. 2093), re H. No. 5196, entitled:

“AN ACT CONVERTING THE ILIGAN-TAGOLOAN-BALOI-PANTAO RAGAT-MUNAI-TANGKAL-MAGSAYSAY-TU-BOD-SALVADOR-SAPAD-NUNUNGAN-SULTAN NAGA DIMAPORO ROAD IN ILIGAN CITY AND LANAO DEL NORTE INTO A NATIONAL HIGHWAY AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”

recommending its approval with amendments.

Sponsors: Representatives Amante, Andaya, Dimaporo and Badelles



“AN ACT CONVERTING THE BACOLOD-MUNAI-MADALUM PROVINCIAL ROAD IN THE PROVINCES OF LANAO DEL NORTE INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”


Sponsors: Representatives Amante, Andaya, Dimaporo, Badelles and Macarambon



“AN ACT CONVERTING THE LALA-SALVADOR-TUBOD ROAD IN LANAO DEL NORTE TO A NATIONAL HIGHWAY AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”





“AN ACT CONVERTING THE BALOI-MATUNGGAO-LINAMON PROVINCIAL ROAD IN THE PROVINCE OF LANAO DEL NORTE INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”





“AN ACT CONVERTING THE TUBOD-MAGSAYSAY-TANGKAL-KOLAMBUGAN PROVINCIAL ROAD IN LANAO DEL NORTE AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”





“AN ACT AUTHORIZING THE CONVERSION OF JUNCTION CABITAN TO DEBESMSCAT CIRCUMFERENTIALROAD, MUNICIPALITY OF MASBATE, PROVINCE OF MASBATE INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”recommending its approval with amendments.

Sponsors: Representatives Amante, Andaya and Espinosa (E.R.)



“AN ACT CONVERTING THE CLARIN-DEBOLOC PROVINCIAL ROAD IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF PLARIDEL, PROVINCE OF MISAMIS OCCIDENTAL INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”


Sponsors: Representatives Amante, Andaya and Clarete



“AN ACT CONVERTING THE MAMANGA DAKU-QUIRINO PROVINCIAL ROAD IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF PLARIDEL, PROVINCE OF MISAMIS OCCIDENTAL INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”





“AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE CONVERSION OF THE PUNAY-SEIT-PROVINCIAL ROAD, SEIT-KANSIPAT-TANDU BATO PROVINCIAL ROAD, SEIT-CAMP SEIT PROVINCIAL ROAD, JUNCTION KULAY-KULAY KARUNGDONG PROVINCIAL ROAD, KARUNGDONG-PITOGO PROVINCIAL ROAD, PITOGO-SUCUBAN PROVINCIAL ROAD, KARUNGDONG-NIYOG-NIYOG PROVINCIAL ROAD, SUCUBAN-LAHING-LAHING PROVINCIAL ROAD, SIASI-SABLAY-MUSOH PROVINCIAL ROAD, SIASI-TAUSAN PROVINCIAL ROAD AND SIASI BUAN PROVINCIAL ROAD, ALL IN THE 2ND LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT OF SULU INTO NATIONAL ROADS, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS FOR THE MAINTENANCE AND IMPROVEMENT THEREFOR”


Sponsors: Representatives Amante, Andaya and Arbison



“AN ACT CONVERTING THE GOGON-ANTIPOLO-MAGNESIA-BALITE-LICTIN PROVINCIAL ROAD IN THE PROVINCE OF CATANDUANES INTO THE NATIONAL ROAD, TO BE KNOWN AS VIRAC-SAN ANDRES COASTAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”


Sponsors: Representatives Amante, Andaya and Santiago



“AN ACT CONVERTING RIZAL AVENUE OF THE CITY OF DIGOS, PROVINCE OF DAVAO DEL SUR INTOA CITY ROAD”


Sponsors: Representatives Amante, Andaya and Cagas



“AN ACT CONVERTING THE JUNCTION HIGHWAY NEW MALITBOG, PANABO CITY TO JUNCTION NATIONAL HIGHWAY BUHANGIN, DAVAO CITY VIA MALATIVAS ROAD IN THE PROVINCE OF DAVAO DEL NORTE LEADING TO CALLAWA ROAD IN DAVAO CITY INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND PROVIDING

FUNDS THEREFOR”


Sponsors: Representatives Amante, Andaya, Floirendo and Garcia (V.)


Report by the Committee on Natural Resources and the Committee on Appropriations (Committee Report No. 2105), re H. No. 6716, entitled:

“AN ACT ESTABLISHING THE SAMAR ISLAND PROTECTED AREA IN THE PROVINCES OF SAMAR, NORTHERN SAMAR, AND EASTERN SAMAR AND ITS PERIPHERAL AREAS AS BUFFER ZONE AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”


Sponsors: Representatives Veloso, Andaya, Abayon, Vicencio, Libanan, Uy (R.) and Nachura

TO THE COMMITTEE ON RULESReport by the Committee on Civil, Political and Human Rights (Committee Report No. 2106), re H. No. 6717, entitled:

“AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE RIGHTS OF THE ACCUSED AND PERSONS UNDER INVESTIGATION FOR THE COMMISSION OF A CRIME, PROVIDING FOR CIVIL AND CRIMINAL PENALTIES IN CASE OF VIOLATION THEREOF, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”

recommending its approval in substitution of House Bills Numbered 184, 2429 and 2835.

Sponsors: Representatives Teodoro, Espina, Taganas Layus, Zamora (M.), Rosales, Villarama, Joaquin, Badelles, Lagman-Luistro, Espino, Rodriguez (O.), Ocampo, Beltran and Maza


Report by the Committees on Economic Affairs, Ways and Means and Appropriations (Committee Report No. 2107), re H. No. 6718, entitled:

“AN ACT ESTABLISHING THE EASTERN SAMAR SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONE AND FREE PORT IN THE PROVINCE OF EASTERN SAMAR, CREATING FOR THIS PURPOSE THE EASTERN SAMAR SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONE AND FREE PORT AUTHORITY, APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”


Sponsors: Representatives Moreno, Ledesma, Andaya, Libanan, De Guzman and Ocampo



“AN ACT ESTABLISHING THE DAVAO ORIENTAL SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONE IN THE PROVINCE OF DAVAO ORIENTAL, CREATING FOR THIS PURPOSE THE DAVAO ORIENTAL SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONE AUTHORITY, APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”


Sponsors: Representatives Moreno, Ledesma, Andaya and Almario



“AN ACT ESTABLISHING THE SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONE IN THE PROVINCE OF BUKIDNON, CREATINGFOR THIS PURPOSE THE BUKIDNON SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONE AUTHORITY, AND FREE PORT, APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”


Sponsors: Representatives Moreno, Ledesma, Andaya, Zubiri, De Guzman and Villanueva


Report by the Committee on Good Government (Committee Report No. 2110), re H.R. No. 155, adopted as Resolution No. 39, entitled:

“RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE COMMITTEE ON GOOD GOVERNMENT TO CONDUCT AN IMMEDIATE INQUIRY, IN AID OF LEGISLATION, INTO THE ALLEGED ILLEGAL BIDDING OF THE PHILIPPINE NATIONAL RAILWAYS (PNR)/DISPOSAL OF ITS EIGHT (8) PNR BUILDING/STRUCTURES, A HISTORICAL LANDMARK IN THE PROVINCE OF LA UNION AND PANGASINAN IN THE MEAGER AMOUNT OF P25,297.00; IN FACT THE PNR BUILDING/STRUCTURE AT DAMORTIS, ROSARIO, LA UNION WASAPPRAISED ONLY AT THE MEAGER AMOUNT OF P4,687.50 MORE OR LESS WHEN ITS ESTIMATED COST IS ABOUT P1,794,092.00, HENCE GROSSLY AND GRAVELY DISADVANTAGEOUS TO THE GOVERNMENT”Informing the House of its findings and recommendations.

Sponsors: Chairman Lopez (R.), the Vice Chairmen and the Honorable Members of the Committee on Good Government


Report by the Committee on Good Government (Committee Report No. 2111), re: H.R. No.678, entitled:

“RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE COMMITTEE ON GOOD GOVERNMENT TO CONDUCT AN INVESTIGATION, IN AID OF LEGISLATION, ON THE MANIFEST OVERPRICING OF THE PROPOSED EDSA REHABILITATION PROJECT BY AS MUCH AS ONE BILLION PESOS AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”; and

“THE PRIVILEGE SPEECH OF HON. PLARIDEL M. ABAYA DELIVERED IN THE PLENARY ON AUGUST 6, 2002”

Informing the House of its findings and recommendations.

Sponsors: Chairman Lopez (R.), the Vice Chairmen and Members of the Committee on Good Government


Report by the Committee on Good Government (Committee Report No. 2112), re: House Resolution No. 26, entitled:

“RESOLUTION CALLING THE MEMBERS OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES THROUGH THE COMMITTEE ON GOOD GOVERNMENT TO INVESTIGATE, IN AID OF LEGISLATION AMONG OTHERS, THEALLEGED MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT (MOA) BETWEEN THE LAND TRANSPORTATION OFFICE (LTO) AND THE INSURANCE COMMISSION, WHEREIN A GROUP OF INSURANCE COMPANIES MONOPOLIZE THE INSURANCE OF VEHICLES FOR THIRD-PARTY LIABILITY INSURANCE”; and

House Resolution No. 116, entitled:

“RESOLUTION CALLING FOR AN INVESTIGATION, IN AID OF LEGISLATION, ON THE ALLEGED ANOMALIES INVOLVED IN THE COMPUTERIZATION BY THE LAND TRANSPORTATION OFFICE (LTO) RELATIVE TO SECURING THE LEGALLY MANDATED THIRD PARTY LIABILITY INSURANCE COVERAGE,

INCLUDING THE ALLEGED ABSENCE OF BIDDING IN THE ENGAGEMENT OF THE INSURANCE CONSORTIUM AND THE COMPANY THAT WILL INSTALL THE TECHNICAL INFRASTRUCTURE OF THE SYSTEM”


Sponsors: Chairman Lopez (R.), the Vice Chairmen and Members of the Committee on Good Government


Report by the Committee on Labor and Employment (Committee Report No. 2113), re H.R.No. 1481, entitled:

“RESOLUTION REQUESTING HER EXCELLENCY PRESIDENT GLORIA MACAPAGAL-ARROYO TO IMMEDIATELY RECALL EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 182 DATED 14 FEBRUARY 2003 WHICH AUTHORIZED THE TRANSFER OF THE MEDICARE FUNDS UNDER THE CHARGE AND CARE OF THE OVERSEAS WORKERSWELFARE ADMINISTRATION (OWWA) TO THE PHILIPPINE HEALTH INSURANCE CORPORATION (PHILHEALTH) AND TO HOLD IN ABEYANCE ANY SUCH TRANSFER OF THE MEDICARE FUNDS UNTIL FURTHER CONSULTATIONS AND STUDIES HAVE BEEN CONDUCTED AND COMPLETED TO MAXIMIZE THE MEDICAL AND HEALTH BENEFITS OF OUR OFWS”

recommending its adoption in substitution of House Resolution No. 1353.

Sponsors: Representatives Barinaga, Lagman-Luistro, Aguja and Virador



“AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE CONVERSION OF THE PROVINCIAL ROAD WHICH EXTENDS FROM THE NATIONAL ROAD JUNCTION AT BARANGAY DACUTON PASSING BARANGAYS BUNGSUAN, LAWA-AN, NAGSULANG AND ASTORGA IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF DUMARAO, BARANGAYS MAGUNOD-HUNOD, PUTIAN, SAN ANTONIO, CARATAYA, AGNAGA, MAINIT, AGDAHON AND TERMINATING AT THE NATIONAL ROAD JUNCTION AT BARANGAY MAINDANG IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF CUARTERO, PROVINCE OF CAPIZ TO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”


Sponsors: Representatives Amante, Andaya and Castro



“AN ACT CONVERTING THE TUMALALUD-BILAO PROVINCIAL ROAD FROM BARANGAY TUMALALUD IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF MAMBUSAO TO BARANGAY BILAO IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF SAPIAN, PROVINCE OF CAPIZ, INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”

recommending its approval with amendment.

Sponsors: Representatives Amante, Andaya and Castro



“AN ACT CONVERTING THE BAROTAC VIEJO-GENERAL LUNA-LEMERY BARANGAY ROAD IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF BAROTAC VIEJO, PROVINCE OF ILOILO INTO A NATIONAL ROAD”


Sponsors: Representatives Amante, Andaya and Suplico



“AN ACT CONVERTING THE BATAD-DA-AN BANWA-ESTANCIA ROAD IN THE MUNICIPALITIES OF BATAD AND ESTANCIA, PROVINCE OF ILOILO INTO A NATIONAL ROAD”


Sponsors: Representatives Amante, Andaya and Suplico



“AN ACT CONVERTING THE EXISTING PROVINCIAL AND BARANGAY ROADS FROM TAMBO SAN IGNACIO, HIGHWAY JUNCTION TO BARANGAY OLD MACOPA TO BARANGAY TAOCANGA THEN DOWN TO BARANGAY RIZAL, BARANGAY CAPASNAN, BARANGAY LAMBOG, BARANGAY DEL PILAR, BARANGAY CAYAWAN TO BARANGAY CENTRAL LOCATED IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF MANAY, PROVINCE OF DAVAO ORIENTAL INTO A NATIONAL HIGHWAY CIRCUMFERENTIAL ROAD AND PROVIDING FUNDS THEREFOR”


Sponsors: Representatives Amante, Andaya and Malanyaon



“AN ACT CONVERTING THE EXISTING PROVINCIAL ROAD FROM BARANGAY SAN JOSE JUNCTION PASSING THROUGH DON LEON BALANTE TO P.M. SOBRECAREY ROAD LOCATED IN THE MUNICIPALITYOF CARAGA, PROVINCE OF DAVAO ORIENTAL INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND PROVIDING FUNDS THEREFOR”


Sponsors: Representatives Amante, Andaya and Malanyaon



“AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE IMMEDIATE REHABILITATION OF THE ARMY ROAD IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF LUBANG, PROVINCE OF OCCIDENTAL MINDORO, AUTHORIZING ITS CONVERSION INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”


Sponsors: Representatives Amante, Andaya and Ramirez-Sato



“AN ACT DECLARING AND INTEGRATING THE KAPALONG - TALAINGOD-VALENCIA BUKIDNON ROAD FROM STA 1523 + 319 - STA 1573 + 319 L-50.0 KM. INTO NATIONAL ROAD NETWORK SYSTEM, AN INTER PROVINCIAL ROAD LINKING THE PROVINCE OF DAVAO DEL NORTE AND PROVINCE OF BUKIDNON AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”


Sponsors: Representatives Amante, Andaya and Olaño



“AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE CONVERSION OF THE TARA, BOLINAO TO TORI-TORI, AND A PROVINCIAL ROAD INTO A NATIONAL ROAD, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS FOR THE MAINTENANCE AND IMPROVEMENT THEREOF”recommending its approval with amendments.

Sponsors: Representatives Amante, Andaya and Celeste



“AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE CONVERSION OF THE STO. NIÑO PROVINCIAL ROAD IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF BACLAYON, PROVINCE OF BOHOL INTO A NATIONAL ROAD, APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”


Sponsors: Representatives Amante, Andaya and Chatto



“AN ACT CONVERTING THE TEOFILO SAMSON AVENUE IN CALOOCAN CITY INTO A NATIONAL ROAD, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”


Sponsors: Representatives Amante, Andaya and Echiverri



“AN ACT CONVERTING THE ZAPOTE - ILANG-ILANG ROAD IN CAMARIN, CALOOCAN CITY INTO A NATIONAL ROAD, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”

recommending its approval with amendments.Sponsors: Representatives Amante, Andaya and Echiverri



“AN ACT CONVERTING CRISPULO STREET IN VICTORY HEIGHTS, CALOOCAN CITY INTO A NATIONAL

ROAD, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”





“AN ACT CONVERTING THE MAIN ROAD OF BAGONG SILANG, CALOOCAN CITY INTO A NATIONAL ROAD, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”





“AN ACT SEEKING TO CONVERT AND DECLARE THE JALAJALA FRIENDSHIP HIGHWAY CONNECTING THE MUNICIPALITIES OF JALAJALA, PROVINCE OF RIZAL WITH THE MUNICIPALITY OF SINOLOAN,PROVINCE OF LAGUNA, INTO A NATIONAL ROAD, AND TRANSFERRING THE MANAGEMENT AND MAINTENANCE THEREFOR TO THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS AND HIGHWAYS”recommending its approval with amendments.

Sponsors: Representatives Amante, Andaya and Rodriguez (I.)



“AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE CONVERSION OF THE NRJ TINIWISAN-MAGUINDA - MANDAMO (BUTUANCITY) - POBLACION - MALICATO - SAN ISIDRO - ROSARIO - MARCOS CALO (LAS NIEVES, AGUSAN DEL NORTE) - NRJ AGUSAN - DAVAO ROAD, INTO A NATIONAL SECONDARY ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”


Sponsors: Representatives Amante, Andaya and Banaag



“AN ACT CONVERTING THE DAHICAN-LAWIGAN ROAD IN THE PROVINCE OF DAVAO ORIENTAL FROM APROVINCIAL ROAD TO A NATIONAL SECONDARY ROAD”


Sponsors: Representatives Amante, Andaya and Almario



“AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE CONVERSION OF THE TINAGO TO BINGAG, TINAGO TO DAO, TINAGO

TO BIKING AND THE BINGAG HINAGDANAN CAVE PROVINCIAL ROADS IN THE ISLAND OF PANGLAO, PROVINCE OF BOHOL INTO NATIONAL ROADS, APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”


Sponsors: Representatives Amante, Andaya and Chatto



“AN ACT CONVERTING THE POLILLO-BURDEOS PROVINCIAL ROAD IN THE MUNICIPALITIES OF POLILLO AND BURDEOS, PROVINCE OF QUEZON, INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS FOR THE IMPROVEMENT AND MAINTENANCE THEREOF”


Sponsors: Representatives Amante, Andaya and Nantes



“AN ACT CONVERTING THE POLILLO-PANUKULAN PROVINCIAL ROAD IN THE MUNICIPALITIES OF POLILLO AND PANUKULAN, PROVINCE OF QUEZON, INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS FOR THE IMPROVEMENT AND MAINTENANCE THEREOF”





“AN ACT CONVERTING THE TAYABAS-PAGBILAO PROVINCIAL ROAD IN THE MUNICIPALITIES OF TAYABAS AND PAGBILAO, PROVINCE OF QUEZON, INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS FOR THE IMPROVEMENT AND MAINTENANCE THEREOF”





“AN ACT CONVERTING THE SUBIC-CAWAG BARANGAY ROAD IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF SUBIC, PROVINCE OF ZAMBALES INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”


Sponsors: Representatives Amante, Andaya and Gordon



“AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE DECLARATION OF THE TOLEDO-ULING-NAGA ROAD IN TOLEDO CITY, CEBU AS A NATIONAL ROAD AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”


Sponsors: Representatives Amante, Andaya and Yapha



“AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE CONVERSION OF THE ROAD STARTING FROM URDAS, SAN VICENTE, ILOCOS SUR THROUGH PUERTO BEACH ROAD-NAGLAOA-AN-CABARITAN-STO. DOMINGO BEACH ROAD-STA. CRUZ-PANAY-PANAY NORTE ARTERIAL ROAD, STO. DOMINGO, ILOCOS SUR THROUGH CABAROAN-SPANISH ARCH-MANILA NORTH ROAD-MAGSINGAL, MAGSINGAL, ILOCOS SUR AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”


Sponsors: Representatives Amante, Andaya and Baterina



“AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE CONVERSION OF THE ROAD STARTING FROM TAMURONG, STA. CATALINA, ILOCOS SUR THROUGH NAGTUPACAN-SAN SEBASTIAN, SAN VICENTE, ILOCOS SUR THROUGH NANERMAN-CALAY-AB-SIVED, STO. DOMINGO, ILOCOS SUR THROUGH ALANGAN-PURO-MANZANTE-PAGSANAAN SUR - PAGSANAAN NORTE - MIRAMAR, MAGSINGAL, ILOCOS SUR THROUGH SAN ISIDRO - SAOANG - CABANGLUTAN - CAMINDOROAN - SOLOT-SOLOT - DARDARAT, SAN JUAN, ILOCOS SUR THROUGH SALOMAGUE, CABUGAO, ILOCOS SUR INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”


Sponsors: Representatives Amante, Andaya and BaterinaTO THE COMMITTEE ON RULES


“AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE CONVERSION OF THE ROAD STARTING FROM THE MANILA NORTH ROAD-POBLACION-CABANGLUTAN-CAMINDOROAN-JUNCTION SOLOT-SOLUT- SURNGIT-CARDARAT, SAN JUAN, ILOCOS SUR THROUGH BOUNDARY SALOMAGUE PORT ARTERIAL ROAD, CABUGAO, ILOCOS SUR INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”





“AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE CONVERSION OF THE ROADS STARTING FROM POBLACION EAST OF SAN ILDEFONSO, ILOCOS SUR THROUGH THE BARANGAY SHORT-CUT ROAD FROM BUNGRO-SAGNEB, SAN ILDEFONSO, ILOCOS SUR THROUGH AN-ANNAM WEST-AN-ANNAM EAST - TAY-AC WEST-NAGUIDDAYAN, BANTAY, ILOCOS SUR INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”





“AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE CONVERSION OF THE ROAD STARTING FROM PUG-OS - TEPPENG - PARATONG - SABANGAN - KATIPUNAN - CABANGTALAN - DADALAQUITEN THROUGH BOUNDARY BADOC BEACH ROAD, SINAIT, ILOCOS SUR INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”





“AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE CONVERSION OF THE ROAD STARTING FROM BULAG - RAOIS-RUGSUANAN-JUNCTION NAGSANGALAN-CABAROAN DAYA, BANTAY, ILOCOS SUR THROUGH BONGTOLAN, VIGAN CITY THROUGH NAGUILIAN, CAOAYAN, ILOCOS SUR THROUGH JUNCTION VIGAN-CAOAYAN-JUNCTION QUIRINO-PANDAN-JUNCTION SALINDEG-SALINDEG-PONG-OL JUNCTION-MINDORO ROAD - BARRACA-PARATONG-BULALA, VIGAN CITY, ILOCOS SUR TO VIGAN AIRPORT INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”





“AN ACT CONVERTING THE BARANGAY ROAD FROM JUNCTION LUTIMAN OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF ALICIA, PROVINCE OF ZAMBOANGA SIBUGAY TO GUICAM ROAD, MUNICIPALITY OF IMELDA, OF THESAME PROVINCE INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”


Sponsors: Representatives Amante, Andaya and Cabilao



“AN ACT CONVERTING BRGY. BATO ROAD IN BARANGAY BATO, PANAY, CAPIZ INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND PROVIDING FUNDS THEREFOR”


Sponsors: Representatives Amante, Andaya and Dadivas


Report by the Committee on Public Works and Highways and the Committee on

Appropriations (Committee Report No. 2145), re H. No. 5130, entitled:

“AN ACT CONVERTING ALL PROVINCIAL, CITY AND MUNICIPAL ROADS IN THE SECOND DISTRICT OF PALAWAN, LEADING TO PORTS AND/OR PIERS, INTO A NATIONAL SECONDARY ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”


Sponsors: Representatives Amante, Andaya and Mitra



“AN ACT CONVERTING THE KAUSWAGAN-POONA PIAGAPO-PANTAO RAGAT (LANAO DEL NORTE) TO PIAGAPO-SAGUIRAN (LANAO DEL SUR) LOCAL ROAD INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”


Sponsors: Representatives Amante, Andaya, Dimaporo, Badelles and Dumarpa



“AN ACT CONVERTING THE MATUNGGAO-PANTAO RAGAT ROAD IN LANAO DEL NORTE UP TO BALINDONG, LANAO DEL SUR INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”


Sponsors: Representatives Amante, Andaya, Dimaporo and Macarambon



“AN ACT CONVERTING THE POBLACION-CATHEDRAL-SUSO-BEL-IS-MAHAYAHAY-CATHEDRAL PROVINCIAL ROAD, ALL IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF KAPATAGAN, LANAO DEL NORTE, INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”


Sponsors: Representatives Amante, Andaya and Dimaporo


Report by the Committee on Public Works and Highways and the Committee on Appropriations (Committee Report No. 2149), re H. No. 5195, entitled:“AN ACT CONVERTING THE KAPATAGAN-SAPAD-NUNUNGAN-SULTAN NAGA DIMAPORO ROAD IN LANAO DEL NORTE INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”


Sponsors: Representatives Amante, Andaya and DimaporoTO THE COMMITTEE ON RULES


“AN ACT CONVERTING THE KAUSWAGAN-UNIDOS PROVINCIAL ROAD IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF PLARIDEL, PROVINCE OF MISAMIS OCCIDENTAL INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”





“AN ACT CONVERTING THE PROVINCIAL ROAD FROM THE MUNICIPALITY OF STA. MAGDALENA TO PAWA ROAD IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF MATNOG, PROVINCE OF SORSOGON, INTO A NATIONAL ROAD TO BE KNOWN AS THE GOVERNOR JUAN G. FRIVALDO HIGHWAY AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”


Sponsors: Representatives Amante, Andaya and Solis

TO THE COMMITTEE ON RULESReport by the Committee on Good Government (Committee Report No. 2152), re H.R. No. 123, entitled:

“RESOLUTION URGING THE COMMITTEE ON GOOD GOVERNMENT TO CONDUCT AN INQUIRY INTO THE REPORTED MULTI-MILLION PESO CHRISTMAS SPLURGE ENJOYED BY THE SOCIAL SECURITY SYSTEM’S TOP EXECUTIVES”Informing the House of its findings and recommendations.

Sponsors: Chairman Lopez (R.), the Vice Chairmen and the Members of the Committee on Good Government


Report by the Committee on Civil, Political and Human Rights and the Committee on Public Order and Security (Committee Report No. 2153), re:

Privilege Speech of Rep. Nerissa Soon-Ruiz delivered on 16 December 2002 regarding the bungled operation of NBI Region 7 agents against a suspected drug dealer in CebuCity that ended in the near death of five (5) innocent civilians


Sponsors: Representatives Rosales, Durano, Soon-Ruiz, Aquino (B.), Banaag, Ocampo, Aguja, Cuenco, Del Mar and Gullas


Report by the Committee on Civil, Political and Human Rights (Committee Report No. 2154), re Resolution No. 649 (as adopted), entitled:

“RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE COMMITTEE ON CIVIL, POLITICAL AND HUMAN RIGHTS TO CONDUCT AN INQUIRY, IN AID OF LEGISLATION, INTO THE ABDUCTION AND KILLING OF HUMAN RIGHTS ADVOCATES IN ORIENTAL MINDORO ALLEGEDLY PERPETRATED BY THE 204TH BRIGADE OF THE PHILIPPINE ARMY”

Informing the House of its findings and recommendations.Sponsors: Representatives Rosales, Ocampo, Maza and Beltran


Report by the Committee on Civil, Political and Human Rights (Committee Report No. 2155), re Resolution No. 573 (as adopted), entitled:

“RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE COMMITTEE ON CIVIL, POLITICAL AND HUMAN RIGHTS TO CONDUCT AN INQUIRY, IN AID OF LEGISLATION, INTO THE RECENT SPATE OF SUMMARY EXECUTIONS AND MASS KILLINGS IN SORSOGON”; and

Resolution No. 620 (as adopted), entitled:

“RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE COMMITTEE ON CIVIL, POLITICAL AND HUMAN RIGHTS TO CONDUCT AN INVESTIGATION, IN AID OF LEGISLATION, ON THE REPORTED SERIES OF KILLINGS AND ATTEMPTED KILLINGS OF PEASANTS, MOSTLY MEMBERS OF THE HUMAN RIGHTS GROUP KARAPATAN, IN SORSOGON AND CAMARINES NORTE FROM NOVEMBER 2002 TO JANUARY 2003 WHICH WERE ALLEGEDLY PERPETRATED BY ELEMENTS OF THE 2ND INFANTRY BATTALION, THE 31ST INFANTRY BATTALION, THE CITIZEN ARMED FORCES GEOGRAPHICAL UNITS (CAFGUs) AND THE PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE AND TO MAKE THE NECESSARY RECOMMENDATIONS IN THE INTEREST OF UPHOLDING JUSTICE AND HUMAN RIGHTS

recommending for its approval.

Sponsors: Representatives Rosales, Ocampo, Maza, Beltran, Escudero and Solis


REP. AQUINO'S (A.) CORRECTION TO HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 27

Upon recognition by the Chair, Rep. Agapito A. Aquino corrected the title of House Concurrent Resolution No. 27, stating that the name of his brother was BENIGNO SIMEON AQUINO JR. and not “Benigno Servillano Aquino Jr.”

SUSPENSION OF SESSION

On motion of Rep. Gonzales, the session was suspended at 4:24 p.m.

RESUMPTION OF SESSION

At 4:26 p.m., the session was resumed.MOTION OF REP. GONZALES TO CONSIDER HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 30

Whereupon, Rep. Gonzales moved for the consideration of House Concurrent Resolution No. 30.

Before the Body could act on the motion, the Chair recognized Rep. Didagen P. Dilangalen.

PARLIAMENTARY INQUIRY OF REP. DILANGALEN

After reading the title of House Concurrent Resolution No. 30, Rep. Dilangalen inquired whether the Body will take up the measure even if no copies thereof had been distributed to the Members.

With the permission of the Chair, Rep. Gonzales stated that copies of the measure had already been distributed to the Members.

Rep. Dilangalen however manifested not having seen a copy of the Concurrent Resolution even if he was among the first Members to arrive in the Session Hall.

MANIFESTATION OF REP. PARAS

Rep. Jacinto V. Paras manifested that he himself did not receive a copy of the measure.


Thereupon, the Chair motu proprio suspended the session at 4:28 p.m.


At 4:30 p.m., the session was resumed with Deputy Speaker Raul M. Gonzalez presiding.

REMARKS OF REP. GONZALES

Upon resumption of session, Rep. Gonzales expressed hope that Rep. Dilangalen had received a copy of House Concurrent Resolution No. 30 to enable the Body to considerthe same.


Upon recognition by the Chair, Rep. Dilangalen stated that he just received a copy of the subject measure and thereafter inquired whether the Body will tackle the samethat day.

With the permission of the Chair, Rep. Gonzales stated that his pending motion was for the Body to take up House Concurrent Resolution No. 30.

Rep. Dilangalen however noted that the Speaker had just referred the measure to the Committee on Rules about 15 minutes ago so the matter is still pending in said Committee. He remarked that no committee report has yet been submitted and that the Committee, of which he is a member, has not yet met for this purpose. He noted that the Business for the Day does not include the measure.

Rep. Gonzales replied that based on a letter addressed to Executive Director Cesar S. Pareja of the Plenary Affairs Bureau, which he signed in his capacity as MajorityLeader, together with Deputy Minority Leader Aquino (A.), the Committee on Rules hasdecided to report out House Concurrent Resolution No. 30 in view of its importance and urgency. He stressed that in many instances, the Committee on Rules, instead of meeting formally, decides on urgent matters by the mere authority of its Majority and Minority Leaders. This, he said, is the reason why the measure has been includedin the Order of Business.

As a reaction, Rep. Dilangalen claimed that he has not yet seen a copy of the letter. He further underscored that House Concurrent Resolution No. 30 is just like any ordinary bill which, under the Constitution, must pass through certain procedures. He pointed out that under the Constitution, a bill or a resolution can only be taken up immediately if the President certifies to its urgency in order to meet a public calamity.

Rep. Gonzales clarified that the subject measure is a mere concurrent resolution. Indisagreeing with the point of Rep. Dilangalen, he explained that it is a joint resolution which needs the concurrence of the Senate as well as the President. He added that House Concurrent Resolution No. 30 is akin to a legislative calendar which is approved only by the Senate and the House. Nonetheless, he emphasized that the measure is a matter reported out by the Committee on Rules and under the Rules of the House, anything reported out by the Committee on Rules is always in order.

RESTATEMENT OF REP. GONZALES' MOTION

In view of the foregoing, Rep. Gonzales moved for his previous motion which is for the Body to proceed to the consideration of House Concurrent Resolution No. 30.

POINT OF ORDER OF REP. DILANGALEN

Rep. Dilangalen pointed out that the measure was referred just 20 minutes ago and that no committee report had been reported out.

RULING OF THE CHAIR

The Chair ruled that the point of order was not well-taken. He then directed the Secretary-General to read the title of House Concurrent Resolution No. 30.

MOTION FOR RECONSIDERATIONOF THE RULING OF THE CHAIR

After stating that the Chair was out of order, Rep. Dilangalen moved for a reconsideration of the ruling of the Chair.

CONSIDERATION OF HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 30

The Chair directed the Secretary-General to read the title of the measure.

MOTION FOR RECONSIDERATION OF THE RULING OF THE CHAIR

Before the Secretary General could proceed to read the title of the measure, Rep. Dilangalen observed that there was no order in the House and that the Rules of the House and the Constitution were not being followed. He then moved for a reconsideration of the ruling of the Chair.

The Chair stated that he has already ruled on the matter but Rep. Dilangalen may appeal the ruling if he so desires.

Rep. Dilangalen remarked that this was the reason he was moving for a reconsideration but the Chair was not listening to him.

OBJECTION OF REP. GONZALES Upon recognition by the Chair, Rep. Gonzales objected to Rep. Dilangalen's motion for reconsideration and moved for a division of the House.

EXPLANATION OF REP. DILANGALEN

With the permission of the Chair, Rep. Dilangalen explained his motion for reconsideration of the ruling of the Chair. He stated that the Rules of the House clearly provide that when a resolution is referred to a committee, the latter must specify a certain date to tackle the measure. Under the instant case, he commented that House Concurrent Resolution No. 30 had been referred to the Committee on Rules about 30 minutes ago. He said that he is a member of said Committee and they have not yet deliberated on the matter. He added that the Members were also not notified of the same. He then inquired on the whereabouts of the committee report which Rep. Gonzales said has been reported out.In addition, Rep. Dilangalen maintained that the measure is not an urgent matter because otherwise, the President would have certified to its urgency so it could fall under the exemption provided for under the Constitution regarding the approval of certified measures. Considering that it is not an urgent measure, he argued that the Concurrent Resolution has to undergo the three stages set forth under the Constitution and the Rules of the House. Considering further that the measure was not included in the Business for the Day, he inquired how the Body could proceed with the discussion of the measure unless they are misleading Congress and the Filipino people.Rep. Dilangalen averred that he was moving for a reconsideration because the Memberswere no longer following the procedures laid down under the Constitution and the House Rules.

He then asked why the Members were in a hurry to proceed with the canvassing when the Rules on Cavassing have not yet been adopted. He said that the proceedings must

be suspended to wait for the Committee Report. Considering that the matter is of highest priority, he then moved to adjourn the session until the next day.At this point, Rep. Benasing O. Macarambon Jr. sought recognition from the Chair.


Rep. Dilangalen stated that a motion to adjourn has priority over any other motion.However, the Chair recognized Rep. Macarambon.

Whereupon, Rep. Dilangalen sought recognition on a point of order.

REMARKS OF REP. MACARAMBON

Rep. Macarambon pointed out that he still had the floor.

Rep. Dilangalen maintained that under the Rules of the House, a motion to adjourn has the highest priority, and therefore should be the first to be acted upon.

OBJECTION OF REP. PICHAY

At this point, Rep. Prospero A. Pichay Jr. objected to Rep. Dilangalen's motion to adjourn.

The Chair thereafter noted Rep. Pichay's objection to the motion of Rep. Dilangalen to adjourn.

Whereupon, Rep. Pichay reiterated his objection.

REMARKS OF REP. MACARAMBON(Continuation)

Rep. Macarambon stated that there was a pending motion for reconsideration.

remarks of the chair

At this point, the Chair directed the Sergeant-at-Arms to install order on the floor.


Rep. Gonzales stated that the parliamentary status was that there was a motion to adjourn by Rep. Dilangalen which was objected to by Rep. Pichay.

Considering that there was an objection thereto, he then asked for a division of theHouse.

DIVISION OF THE HOUSE

On motion of Rep. Gonzales, there being no objection, the Chair called for a division of the House.

VIVA VOCE VOTING ON THE MOTION

Thereupon, the Chair called for a viva voce vote on Rep. Dilangalen's motion and with the majority of the Members voting against the motion, the Chair declared the same lost.

Rep. Dilangalen thereafter moved for a count by tellers.

The Chair ruled that the "Nay" votes had preponderance over the "Aye" votes.Rep. Dilangalen however contended that aside from the Rules, tradition dictates thatwhen there is an objection to the motion, it has to be submitted to a division of the House.

The Chair stated that a division of the House had already been conducted.

POINT OF ORDER OF REP. GONZALES

At this point, Rep. Gonzales stated that a while ago, the consideration of House Concurrent Resolution No. 30 was based on the fact that it was duly reported out by the Committee on Rules. He said that even as Rep. Dilangalen disagrees therewith, the fact remains that the highest Minority representative in the Committee on Rules,Rep. Aquino (A.) had already concurred that said Concurrent Resolution be reported out considering that it is of utmost importance and in compliance with the constitutional duty of the House to convert itself into a National Board of Canvassers for the presidential and vice-presidential elections.

He stressed that this motion precedes any other motion because it is the highest constitutional duty which the Members must perform at this particular time. This, he said, coupled with the fact that anything reported out by the Committee on Rules is always in order and this is also found in the Rules. He pointed out that he sees no reason why Rep. Dilangalen should keep on raising a point of order when the matter is clearly in accordance with the Rules.

Rep. Gonzales reiterated that his motion takes precedence over all privilege motionsin the House considering that it is the Members’ mandated constitutional duty. He then moved that the Body consider House Concurrent Resolution No. 30 and requested the Secretary General to read the title of the Concurrent Resolution.

remarks of rep. paras

At this juncture, Rep. Paras sought the Chair’s recognition.

However, before Rep. Paras could be recognized, the Chair stated that he still has to rule on the point of order.

Rep. Paras sought recognition on a parliamentary inquiry.

Rep. Gonzales contended that a parliamentary inquiry is not a privileged motion.

remarks of dilangalen

Rep. Dilangalen stated that he still had the floor.

The Chair asked the Members to observe order on the floor. He then recognized Rep. Dilangalen.

Rep. Gonzales stressed that his motion is a privileged one.

Rep. Dilangalen maintained that he had already been recognized by the Chair and as such Rep. Gonzales is out of order.

At this juncture, the Chair ruled that he had recognized Rep. Dilangalen so he couldfinish his motion.

On whether this means that Rep. Gonzales was out of order, the Chair replied in the negative. He added that Rep. Dilangalen was declared out of order earlier.

Rep. Dilangalen stressed that he was not out of order because he was recognized.

Rep. Gonzales appreciated the information of the Chair.


At the outset, Rep. Dilangalen expressed hope that there was no conspiracy then between the Chair and Rep. Gonzales.

RULING OF THE CHAIR

The Chair ruled that the word conspiracy be stricken-off the records.

Rep. Dilangalen asked how he can be declared out of order when there was no motion to that effect.

The Chair clarified that he had already declared Rep. Dilangalen out of order five minutes ago.

Whereupon, Rep. Dilangalen sought permission to proceed with his pending motion.

The Chair stated that Rep. Dilangalen may proceed on another matter.

remarks of rep. gonzales

Rep. Gonzales sought the Chair’s recognition on a point of order.

Rep. Dilangalen pointed out that he was recognized by the Chair.

However, Rep. Gonzales averred that the mere fact that Rep. Dilangalen was recognized does not deprive the other Members of the right to be recognized too.

The Chair sought order on the floor and asked Rep. Dilangalen to state what he wanted to say.

REMARKS OF REP. DILANGALEN

Rep. Dilangalen noted that according to Rep. Gonzales, it has been the tradition of the House that when the Majority Leader and the Minority Leader agree on something, as in this case, the calendaring of House Concurrent Resolution No. 30, then it has to be that way.

Rep. Dilangalen informed Rep. Gonzales that the Majority and the Minority Leaders donot constitute the entire membership of the House, and therefore, both would not bind the House unless their actions are allowed or approved by the House. In this case, he said that he is questioning the Majority Leader's position since this is already outside of the Rules of the House.

Rep. Dilangalen said that he does not know why Rep. Gonzales was railroading House Concurrent Resolution No. 30. He expressed hope that the reason would be made clear to him because his purpose for taking the floor was to ferret out the truth. And inorder to ferret out the truth, he said that it is important to comply with the Rulesand with the provisions of the Constitution. He maintained that there are no shortcuts on this matter. He underscored that the rule of law must be observed. This, as he commented that the Members no longer observe the same. He thereafter appealed to the Members to faithfully observe the Rules of the House.

At this juncture, Reps. Paras and Gonzales sought recognition from the Chair.

The Chair requested the people from the gallery to refrain from clapping.Rep. Dilangalen said that this had always been his position.

Rep. Gonzales sought recognition on a point of order.

Rep. Dilangalen sought permission to continue.

The Chair sought order on the floor. He then ruled that Rep. Dilangalen has only oneminute to wrap up his motion.

REMARKS OF REP. DILANGALEN

Rep. Dilangalen stated that he is only invoking the rule of law supported by the Constitution and the Rules of the House.

He then cited the Preamble of the Constitution and the Rules of the House which the Members should follow.

He pointed out the House is governed by the rule of law as stated in the Preamble ofthe Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines.

Rep. Paras sought recognition from the Chair.

Rep. Gonzales sought recognition in order to reply to Rep. Dilangalen's remarks.

Rep. Dilangalen said that Rep. Gonzales is out of order.

The Chair ruled that Rep. Dilangalen's time had expired and recognized Rep. Gonzalesanew.


Rep. Gonzales stated that both Rep. Dilangalen and himself were invoking the Rules of the House. However, he said that there is obviously only one correct question and that was the reason why he had already stated that perhaps Rep. Dilangalen was not aware that it has been the tradition in the Committee on Rules that the MinorityLeader or at least the highest Minority Leader represents the entire Minority.

Whereupon, Rep. Paras sought recognition on a point of order.

POINT OF ORDER OF REP. PARAS

Upon recognition by the Chair, Rep. Paras pointed out that there is no tradition necessary in this case because of a specific provision under the Rules, Section 79 on Urgent Bills and Resolutions, which states that "On motion by the Committee on Rules, the House may declare urgent a bill or joint resolution and consider it in accordance with a timetable."

Thereupon, Rep. Paras inquired on the timetable. He again cited that "the timetable shall be prepared by the Committee on Rules fixing the date when the Bill or Resolution must be reported by the Committee concerned, the number of days or hours to be allotted to the consideration of the bill on Second Reading and the date the debate must be concluded and final vote taken."

Rep. Paras maintained that it is clearly stated that a timetable is necessary in this regard. He then inquired on the timetable provided for under the Rules.

At this juncture, the Chair recognized Rep. Rolando G. Andaya Jr. on a point of order.

POINT OF ORDER OF REP. ANDAYA

Rep. Andaya recalled that Rep. Dilangalen had taken the floor to appeal the ruling of the Chair. However, he noted that the latter had abandoned that appeal by his motion to adjourn. He added that said motion to adjourn was voted out. He stated that the Members have been discussing another appeal which has already been abandoned. He maintained that the next best thing to do is to rule upon the Concurrent Resolution.

The Chair said that that is what he has done. He added that he has already ordered the Secretary General to read the title of the measure.

Whereupon, Rep. Gonzales requested the Secretary General to comply therewith.Rep. Dilangalen sought permission to say something.

Upon direction of the Chair, the Secretary General read the title of House Concurrent Resolution No. 30, to wit:

"CONCURRENT RESOLUTION PROVIDING THAT THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES AND THE SENATE HOLD A JOINT PUBLIC SESSION TO CANVASS THE VOTES CAST FOR PRESIDENT AND VICE-PRESIDENT IN THE NATIONAL ELECTIONS HELD ON MAY 10, 2004 AND PROCLAIM THE PRESIDENT-ELECT AND VICE-PRESIDENT ELECT."

MOTION TO ADOPT HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 30

Rep. Gonzales moved that the Body adopt House Concurrent Resolution No. 30.

VIVA VOCE VOTING

Thereupon, the Chair called for a viva voce voting on the motion, and with majority of the Members voting in favor of the motion, the same was approved.

OBJECTION OF REP. DILANGALEN

At this point, Rep. Dilangalen objected to the motion.

ADOPTION OF HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 30

On motion of Rep. Gonzales, there being no objection, the Body adopted House Concurrent Resolution No. 30.


On motion of Rep. Gonzales, the session was suspended at 4:53 p.m.




Thereupon, on motion of Rep. Gonzales, there being no objection, the Chair suspendedthe session to give way to the Joint Session of Congress at two o'clock in the afternoon of Tuesday, May 25, 2004, until four o'clock in the afternoon of the day after the proclamation of the President-elect and Vice President-elect by the Joint Session of Congress.

It was 5:37 p.m.


At 10:02 a.m., Thursday, June 10, 2004,the session was resumed with Speaker De Venecia presiding.


Whereupon, on motion of Rep. De Guzman, the Chair suspended the session at 10:03 a.m.



REMARKS OF THE SPEAKER

Speaker De Venecia said that before the Body proceeds with the Order of Business, hewants to point out that Section 15, Article VI of the Constitution provides that

Congress shall continue to be in session for such number of days as it may determineuntil 30 days before the opening of its next regular session exclusive of Saturdays,Sundays and legal holidays. He explained that under House Concurrent Resolution No.13, the legislative calendar adopted by both Houses of Congress thus provides that Congress shall adjourn sine die on June 11, 2004; and pointed out that the adjournment of the session of Congress sine die pertains to its legislative and lawmaking functions. He also explained that the Senate adopted Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 19 on May 24, 2004 providing that the Senate and House of Representatives hold a joint public session on May 25, 2004 to canvass the votes forPresident and Vice-President in the May 10, 2004 elections and to proclaim the president-elect and vice-president-elect.

Whereupon, Speaker De Venecia stressed that the constitutional duty of Congress to canvass the votes and to proclaim the winning Presidential and Vice-Presidential candidates shall not be affected by the adjournment sine die of its session as a legislative body. Even during the adjournment of the session of Congress, he said, the latter's canvassing of votes by joint public session as the National Board of Canvassers shall continue and shall not be affected. He recalled that the Eighth and Tenth Congresses in 1992 and 1998, respectively, adjourned session sine die evenbefore convening in a joint public session to canvass the votes and proclaim the winners in the 1992 and 1998 Presidential and Vice-Presidential elections.

APPROVAL OF THE JOURNAL

Whereupon, on motion of Rep. Gonzales, there being no objection, the Body approved the Journal of the previous session.

ADDITIONAL REFERENCE OF BUSINESS

On motion of Rep. Gonzales, there being no objection, the Body proceeded to the Additional Reference of Business.

Upon direction of the Chair, the Secretary General read on First Reading the titles of the following Bills and Resolutions, including the Messages from the President and the Senate, Committee Communications and Report which were referred to the appropriate Committees or consigned to the Archives as hereunder indicated:

BILLS ON FIRST READINGHouse Bill No. 6697, entitled:“AN ACT PROHIBITING PROVIDERS OF ELECTRIC LIGHT, HEAT AND POWER, AND WATER SUPPLY FROM CHARGING CUSTOMERS WITH EXPENSES OTHER THAN THE AMOUNT CORRESPONDING TO THE REASONABLE VALUE OF THE PUBLIC SERVICE RENDERED”By Representatives Ocampo, Virador and DeduroTO THE COMMITTEE ON ENERGYHouse Bill No. 6698, entitled:“AN ACT REQUIRING AS CONDITION PRECEDENT A HUMAN RIGHTS CLEARANCE IN EVERY APPOINTMENT AND PROMOTION OF OFFICERS, ENLISTED PERSONNEL, AGENTS OR MEMBERS POSSESSING AUTHORITY FOR MILITARY OR POLICE OR PEACE AND ORDER OPERATIONS OR CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION IN THE ARMED FORCES OF THE PHILIPPINES, THE PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE, THE NATIONAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION AND THE COAST GUARD OF THE PHILIPPINES, CREATING A HUMAN RIGHTS CLEARANCE BOARD, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”By Representatives Ocampo, Virador and DeduroTO THE COMMITTEE ON NATIONAL DEFENSE AND THE COMMITTEE ON CIVIL, POLITICAL AND HUMANRIGHTSRESOLUTIONSHouse Resolution No. 1482, entitled:“RESOLUTION URGING BOTH CHAMBERS OF CONGRESS, MORE SPECIFICALLY THE SENATE, TO ACT WITH EXPEDIENCY THE APPROVAL OF ALL LOCAL BILLS FILED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES WITH THE SENATE MORE SPECIFICALLY THE CREATION OF LOCAL HIGH SCHOOLS”By Representative SolisTO THE COMMITTEE ON RULES House Resolution No. 1483, entitled:

“RESOLUTION CALLING FOR A JOINT INVESTIGATION OF THE COMMITTEE ON NATIONAL DEFENSE AND THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC ORDER AND SAFETY ON THE BRUTAL KILLING OF TWO CHILDREN IN BARANGAY RECTO, BULAN, SORSOGON, ALLEGEDLY PERPETRATED BY MEN IN CAMOUFLAGED UNIFORM AND CALLING FOR THE IMMEDIATE DISMISSAL OF THE PERSONS INVOLVED, WITHOUT PREJUDICE TO FILING OF CRIMINAL CHARGES SHOULD THE INVESTIGATION SHOW THAT THESE MENIN UNIFORM ARE GOVERNMENT SOLDIERS”By Representative SolisTO THE COMMITTEE ON NATIONAL DEFENSE AND THE COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC ORDER AND SECURITYHouse Resolution No. 1484, entitled:“RESOLUTION EXPRESSING THE PROFOUND GRATITUDE OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES FOR THE EXEMPLARY PERFORMANCE AND COOPERATION DEMONSTRATED BY THE HOUSE LEADERSHIP, THE MEMBERS OF THE HOUSE MAJORITY AND MINORITY PARTIES, THE CHAIRPERSONS AND MEMBERS OF THE STANDING AND SPECIAL COMMITTEES, THE CONGRESSIONAL MEDIA, THE SECRETARIAT PERSONNEL, THE CONGRESSIONAL STAFF, THE CONCERNED CITIZENS AND ALL THOSE WHO HAVE CONTRIBUTED TO THE OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES”By Representatives Escudero and Andaya (R.)TO THE COMMITTEE ON RULES House Resolution No. 1485, entitled:“RESOLUTION DECLARING THE JOURNAL OF THE SESSION OF MAY 24, JUNE 10 AND 11, 2004, ASHAVING BEEN READ AND APPROVED”By Representative Gonzales IITO THE COMMITTEE ON RULES House Resolution No. 1486, entitled:“RESOLUTION COMMENDING THE HONORABLE SPEAKER JOSE DE VENECIA, JR. FOR HIS SUCCESSFULAND STERLING STEWARDSHIP OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES DURING THE TWELFTH CONGRESS”By Representative Aquino (A.)TO THE COMMITTEE ON RULES MESSAGES FROM THE PRESIDENTMALACAÑANG PALACEMANILAApril 29, 2004HON. FRANKLIN M. DRILONSenate President Philippine SenatePasay CityDear Senate President:Pursuant to the provisions of Article VI, Section 26 (2) of the 1987 Constitution, Ihereby certify to the necessity of the immediate enactment of Senate Bill No. 442, entitled:“AN ACT TO LIBERALIZE THE OPERATIONS OF RURAL BANKS, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7353, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE ‘NEW RURAL BANKS ACT OF 1992,’ AND FOROTHER PURPOSES”to address the urgent need to expeditiously spur agricultural productivity as spearheaded by the nationwide network of rural banks as conduits to invigorate the entrepreneurial spirit of the ordinary people especially in the rural areas thus ensuring the viability of the small-sized loan borrowers as well as the mainstream micro enterprises thereby effectively promoting the government’s thrust of accelerating economic development in the countryside.Best wishes.Very truly yours,(SGD.) GLORIA MACAPAGAL-ARROYOcc: HON. JOSE C. DE VENECIA, JR.SpeakerHouse of RepresentativesQuezon CityTO THE COMMITTEE ON RULESMALACAÑANGMANILAApril 19, 2004HON. JOSE C. DE VENECIA, JR.SpeakerHouse of Representatives

Quezon CityDear Speaker De Venecia:Pursuant to the provisions of Article VI, Section 26 (2) of the 1987 Constitution, Ihereby certify to the necessity of the immediate enactment of House Bill No. 5997, entitled:“AN ACT CONVERTING THE TIBURCIO TANCINCO MEMORIAL INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY IN CALBAYOG CITY, PROVINCE OF WESTERN SAMAR INTO A STATE UNIVERSITY TO BEKNOWN AS THE CALBAYOG CITY STATE UNIVERSITY AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”to address the urgent need of providing for an affordable yet high quality and relevant higher education in the Province of Western Samar.Best regards.Very truly yours,(SGD.) GLORIA MACAPAGAL-ARROYOEncl.: a/scc: Hon Franklin M. DrilonSenate PresidentPhilippine SenatePasay CityTO THE COMMITTEE ON RULESMALACAÑANGMANILAApril 26, 2004HON. FRANKLIN M. DRILONSenate President Philippine SenatePasay CityDear Senate President:Pursuant to the provisions of Article VI, Section 26 (2) of the 1987 Constitution, Ihereby certify to the necessity of the immediate enactment of House Bill No. 5201, under Senate Committee Report 306, entitled:“AN ACT CONVERTING THE PAMPANGA AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF MAGALANG, PROVINCE OF PAMPANGA INTO A STATE UNIVERSITY TO BE KNOWN AS THE STATE AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY OF PAMPANGA (SAUP) AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”to address the urgent need of providing State-run affordable university-level education in response to the strong clamor of the constituency in said rural area thus, serve our nation-building efforts.Best wishes.Very truly yours,(SGD.) GLORIA MACAPAGAL-ARROYOcc: HON. JOSE C. DE VENECIA, JR.SpeakerHouse of RepresentativesQuezon CityTO THE COMMITTEE ON RULESMESSAGES FROM THE SENATEMessage dated May 24, 2004 of Oscar G. Yabes, Senate Secretary, informing the House of Representatives that the Senate on even date passed Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 19, entitled:“CONCURRENT RESOLUTION PROVIDING THAT THE SENATE AND THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES HOLD A JOINT PUBLIC SESSION TO CANVASS THE VOTES CAST FOR PRESIDENT AND VICE PRESIDENT IN THE ELECTIONS HELD ON MAY 10, 2004 AND PROCLAIM THE PRESIDENT-ELECT ANDVICE PRESIDENT-ELECT”in which it requests the concurrence of the House of Representatives.TO THE COMMITTEE ON RULESMessage dated February 6, 2004 informing the House of Representatives that the Senate on even date passed Senate Bill No. 2732, entitled:“AN ACT AMENDING CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7471, ENTITLED ‘AN ACT TO PROMOTE THE DEVELOPMENT OF PHILIPPINE OVERSEAS SHIPPING’, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”in which it requests the concurrence of the House of Representatives.TO THE COMMITTEE ON RULESCOMMUNICATIONSPresidential issuance received by the Secretariat of the House of Representatives dated March 17, 2004, as follows:

Proclamations Numbered 558 and 578TO THE ARCHIVESLetter of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs, Office of the President dated February 4, 2004 transmitting herewith two (2) original copies of the following Republic Acts which were approved and signed on February 3, 2004 byHer Excellency President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, to wit:Republic Act No. 9236, entitled:“AN ACT ESTABLISHING A NATIONAL MEASUREMENT INFRASTRUCTURE SYSTEM (NMIS) FOR STANDARDS AND MEASUREMENTS, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”; andRepublic Act No. 9237, entitled:“AN ACT ESTABLISHING MOUNT APO LOCATED IN THE MUNICIPALITIES OF MAGPET AND MAKILALA AND CITY OF KIDAPAWAN, PROVINCE OF COTABATO, IN THE MUNICIPALITIES OF BANSALAN AND STA. CRUZ AND CITY OF DIGOS, PROVINCE OF DAVAO DEL SUR, AND IN THE CITY OF DAVAO, ASA PROTECTED AREA UNDER THE CATEGORY OF NATURAL PARK AND ITS PERIPHERAL AREAS AS BUFFER ZONES, PROVIDING FOR ITS MANAGEMENT, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”TO THE ARCHIVES Letter of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs, Office of the President dated February 5, 2004 transmitting herewith two (2) original copies of Republic Act No. 9238 which lapsed into law on February 5, 2004 without the signature of the President, pursuant to the provisions of Section 27 (1), Article VIof the Constitution, entitled:“AN ACT AMENDING CERTAIN SECTIONS OF THE NATIONAL INTERNAL REVENUE CODE OF 1997, AS AMENDED, BY EXCLUDING SEVERAL SERVICES FROM THE COVERAGE OF THE VALUE-ADDED TAX AND RE-IMPOSING THE GROSS RECEIPTS TAX ON BANKS AND NON-BANK FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES PERFORMING QUASI-BANKING FUNCTIONS AND OTHER NON-BANK FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES BEGINNING JANUARY 1, 2004”TO THE ARCHIVESLetter of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs, Office of the President dated February 11 2004 transmitting herewith two (2) original copies of the following Republic Acts which was approved and signed into law on February 10, 2004 by Her Excellency, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, to wit:Republic Act No. 9239, entitled:“AN ACT REGULATING OPTICAL MEDIA, REORGANIZING FOR THIS PURPOSE THE VIDEOGRAM REGULATORY BOARD, PROVIDING PENALTIES THEREFOR, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”; Republic Act No. 9240, entitled:“AN ACT CONVERTING THE LAS PIÑAS DISTRICT HOSPITAL INTO A MEDICAL CENTER TO BE KNOWNAS THE LAS PIÑAS GENERAL HOSPITAL AND SATELLITE TRAUMA CENTER AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”;Republic Act No. 9241, entitled:“AN ACT AMENDING REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7875, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS ‘AN ACT INSTITUTING A NATIONAL HEALTH INSURANCE PROGRAM FOR ALL FILIPINOS AND ESTABLISHING THE PHILIPPINE HEALTH INSURANCE CORPORATION FOR THE PURPOSE;’” andRepublic Act No. 9242, entitled:“AN ACT PRESCRIBING THE USE OF PHILIPPINE TROPICAL FABRICS FOR UNIFORMS OF PUBLIC OFFICIALS AND EMPLOYEES AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”TO THE ARCHIVES Letter of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs, Office of the President dated February 27, 2004 transmitting herewith two (2) original copies of Republic Act No. 9243 which was approved and signed on 17 February 2004 by Her Excellency, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, entitled:“AN ACT RATIONALIZING THE PROVISIONS ON THE DOCUMENTARY STAMP TAX OF THE NATIONAL INTERNAL REVENUE CODE OF 1997, AS AMENDED, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”TO THE ARCHIVESLetter of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs, Office of the President dated February 24, 2004 transmitting herewith two (2) original copies of the following Republic Acts which were all approved and signed into law on February 19, 2004 by Her Excellency, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, to wit:Republic Act No. 9244, entitled:“AN ACT ELIMINATING THE PREPARATORY RECALL ASSEMBLY AS A MODE OF INSTITUTING RECALL OF ELECTIVE LOCAL GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SECTIONS 70 AND 71,CHAPTER 5, TITLE ONE, BOOK I OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7160, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE ‘LOCALGOVERNMENT CODE OF 1991’, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES;”Republic Act No. 9245, entitled:

“AN ACT CREATING THE PHILIPPINE NATIONAL EAR INSTITUTE WITHIN THE UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES SYSTEM, DEFINING ITS POWERS AND FUNCTIONS, PROVIDING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES;”Republic Act No. 9246, entitled:“AN ACT MODERNIZING THE PRACTICE OF LIBRARIANSHIP IN THE PHILIPPINES THEREBY REPEALING REPUBLIC ACT NO. 6966, ENTITLED: ‘AN ACT REGULATING THE PRACTICE OF LIBRARIANSHIP AND PRESCRIBING THE QUALIFICATIONS OF LIBRARIANS,’ APPROPRIATING FUNDSTHEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES;”Republic Act No. 9247, entitled:“AN ACT INCREASING THE NUMBER OF REGIONAL TRIAL COURT BRANCHES IN THE PROVINCE OF QUEZON AND LUCENA CITY FROM THIRTEEN (13) TO FOURTEEN (14) BRANCHES BY CREATING A NEW BRANCH WITH SEAT AT CATANAUAN, QUEZON, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SUBPARAGRAPH 8 AND PARAGRAPH (E) OF SECTION 14 OF BATAS PAMBANSA BLG. 129;” and Republic Act No. 9248, entitled:“AN ACT AMENDING SECTION 2 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 4894, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS ‘AN ACT CREATING THE CITY OF CADIZ,’ AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”TO THE ARCHIVESLetter of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs, Office of the President dated February 26, 2004 transmitting herewith two (2) original copies of Republic Acts which were all approved and signed into law on February 19, 2004 byHer Excellency, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, to wit:Republic Act No. 9249, entitled:“AN ACT RENAMING THE BULACAN NATIONAL AGRICULTURAL STATE COLLEGE (BNASC) IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF SAN ILDEFONSO, PROVINCE OF BULACAN, AS THE BULACAN AGRICULTURAL STATE COLLEGE (BASC);”Republic Act No. 9250, entitled:“AN ACT GRANTING THE RADIO PHILIPPINES NETWORK, INC., A FRANCHISE TO CONSTRUCT, INSTALL, ESTABLISH, OPERATE AND MAINTAIN RADIO AND TELEVISION BROADCASTING STATIONS IN THE PHILIPPINES;”Republic Act No. 9251, entitled:“AN ACT RENAMING THE PADRE BURGOS - AGDANGAN - UNISAN - PITOGO - MACALELON - GENERALLUNA - CATANAUAN - MULANAY - SAN FRANCISCO - SAN ANDRES - SAN NARCISO - BUENAVISTA NATIONAL ROAD IN BONDOC PENINSULA IN THE PROVINCE OF QUEZON AS THE MIGUEL SUAREZ HIGHWAY”TO THE ARCHIVESLetter of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs, Office of the President dated February 26, 2004 transmitting herewith two (2) original copies of Republic Acts which were all approved and signed into law on February 24, 2004 byHer Excellency, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, to wit:Republic Act No. 9252, entitled:“AN ACT AMENDING SECTION 29 OF BATAS PAMBANSA BLG. 129, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS ‘JUDICIARY REORGANIZATION ACT OF 1980;”Republic Act No. 9253, entitled:“AN ACT ESTABLISHING A NATIONAL SCIENCE HIGH SCHOOL IN BARANGAY JALAUD IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF BAROTAC NUEVO, PROVINCE OF ILOILO TO BE KNOWN AS JOSE MONFORT NATIONAL SCIENCE HIGH SCHOOL, APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES;”Republic Act No. 9254, entitled:“AN ACT ESTABLISHING THE PURIFICACION DOLAR MONFORT NATIONAL SCIENCE HIGH SCHOOL IN BARANGAY P.D. MONFORT NORTH, MUNICIPALITY OF DUMANGAS, PROVINCE OF ILOILO, APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES;” andRepublic Act No. 9255, entitled:“AN ACT ALLOWING ILLEGITIMATE CHILDREN TO USE THE SURNAME OF THEIR FATHER, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE ARTICLE 176 OF EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 209, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE ‘FAMILY CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES”’TO THE ARCHIVESLetter of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs, Office of the President dated February 27, 2004 transmitting herewith two (2) original copies of Republic Act No. 9256 which was approved and signed into law on February 25, 2004by Her Excellency, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, entitled:“AN ACT DECLARING AUGUST 21 OF EVERY YEAR AS NINOY AQUINO DAY, A SPECIAL NONWORKING HOLIDAY, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”TO THE ARCHIVESLetter of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs, Office of

the President dated March 3, 2004 transmitting herewith two (2) original copies of Republic Act No. 9257 which was approved on February 26, 2004 by Her Excellency, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, entitled:“AN ACT GRANTING ADDITIONAL BENEFITS AND PRIVILEGES TO SENIOR CITIZENS, AMENDING FORTHE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7432, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS ‘AN ACT TO MAXIMIZE THE CONTRIBUTION OF SENIOR CITIZENS TO NATION BUILDING, GRANT BENEFITS AND SPECIAL PRIVILEGES AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”’TO THE ARCHIVES Letter of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs, Office of the President dated March 5, 2004 transmitting herewith two (2) original copies of Republic Act No. 9258 which was approved and signed into law on March 2, 2004 by HerExcellency, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, entitled:“AN ACT PROFESSIONALIZING THE PRACTICE OF GUIDANCE AND COUNSELING AND CREATING FOR THIS PURPOSE A PROFESSIONAL REGULATORY BOARD OF GUIDANCE AND COUNSELING, APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”TO THE ARCHIVESLetter of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs, Office of the President dated March 10, 2004 transmitting herewith two (2) original copies of Republic Acts which were both approved and signed into law on March 2 and 5, 2004, respectively by Her Excellency, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, to wit:Republic Act No. 9259, entitled:“AN ACT CREATING A BODY CORPORATE TO BE KNOWN AS THE LA UNION MEDICAL CENTER AND FOROTHER PURPOSES; andRepublic Act No. 9260, entitled:“AN ACT CONVERTING THE STATE POLYTECHNIC COLLEGE OF PALAWAN IN THE PROVINCE OF PALAWAN INTO A STATE UNIVERSITY TO BE KNOWN AS THE WESTERN PHILIPPINES UNIVERSITY AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”TO THE ARCHIVESLetter of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs, Office of the President dated March 19, 2004 transmitting herewith two (2) original copies of Republic Act No. 9261 which lapsed into law on March 7, 2004 without the signature of the President, pursuant to the provisions of Section 27 (1), Article VI of the Constitution, entitled:“AN ACT ESTABLISHING THE SOUTHERN LEYTE STATE UNIVERSITY BY INTEGRATING THE SOUTHERNLEYTE STATE COLLEGE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF SOGOD AND THE TOMAS OPPUS NORMAL COLLEGE IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF TOMAS OPPUS, BOTH LOCATED IN THE PROVINCE OF SOUTHERN LEYTE, APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”TO THE ARCHIVESLetter of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs, Office of the President dated March 9, 2004 transmitting herewith two (2) original copies of Republic Act No. 9262 which was approved and signed into law on March 8, 2004 by HerExcellency, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, entitled:“AN ACT DEFINING VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN AND THEIR CHILDREN, PROVIDING FOR PROTECTIVEMEASURES FOR VICTIMS, PRESCRIBING PENALTIES THEREFOR, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”TO THE ARCHIVESLetter of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs, Office of the President dated March 10, 2004 transmitting herewith two (2) original copies of Republic Act No. 9263 which lapsed into law on even date, by Her Excellency, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, entitled:“AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE PROFESSIONALIZATION OF THE BUREAU OF FIRE PROTECTION (BFP)AND THE BUREAU OF JAIL MANAGEMENT AND PENOLOGY (BJMP), AMENDING CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 6975, PROVIDING FUNDS THEREOF, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”TO THE ARCHIVESLetter of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs, Office of the President dated March 11, 2004 transmitting herewith two (2) original copies of Republic Act and Joint Resolution which were approved and signed into law on March 10, 2004 by Her Excellency, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, to wit:Republic Act No. 9264, entitled:“AN ACT CONVERTING THE MUNICIPALITY OF SANTA ROSA IN THE PROVINCE OF LAGUNA INTO A COMPONENT CITY TO BE KNOWN AS THE CITY OF SANTA ROSA; andJoint Resolution No. 1, entitled:“JOINT RESOLUTION EQUALIZING THE BASE PAY AND AUTHORIZING THE SALARY UPGRADING OF THE UNIFORMED PERSONNEL OF THE BUREAU OF FIRE PROTECTION (BFP) AND THE BUREAU OF

JAIL MANAGEMENT AND PENOLOGY (BJMP) IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE BASE PAY OF THEIR COUNTERPARTS IN THE PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE (PNP), AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”TO THE ARCHIVESLetter of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs, Office of the President dated March 30, 2004 transmitting herewith two (2) original copies of Republic Act No. 9265 which was approved and signed on March 15, 2004 by Her Excellency, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, entitled:“AN ACT CREATING THE MUNICIPALITY OF SAN ISIDRO IN THE PROVINCE OF DAVAO DEL NORTE”TO THE ARCHIVESLetter of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs, Office of the President dated March 19, 2004 transmitting herewith two (2) original copies of Republic Act No. 9266 which was approved and signed into law on March 17, 2004 by Her Excellency, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, entitled:“AN ACT PROVIDING FOR A MORE RESPONSIVE AND COMPREHENSIVE REGULATION FOR THE REGISTRATION, LICENSING AND PRACTICE OF ARCHITECTURE, REPEALING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 545, AS AMENDED, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS ‘AN ACT TO REGULATE THE PRACTICE OF ARCHITECTURE IN THE PHILIPPINES,’ AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”TO THE ARCHIVESLetter of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs, Office of the President dated March 19, 2004 transmitting herewith two (2) original copies each of the following Republic Acts which were approved and signed into law on March19, 2004 by Her Excellency, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, to wit::Republic Act No. 9267 - “AN ACT PROVIDING THE REGULATORY FRAMEWORK FOR SECURITIZATION AND GRANTING FOR THE PURPOSE EXEMPTIONS FROM THE OPERATION OF CERTAINLAWS;”Republic Act No. 9268 - “AN ACT TO REGULATE THE PRACTICE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE IN THE PHILIPPINES, REPEALING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 382 AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES;”Republic Act No. 9269 - “AN ACT CREATING THE SECOND LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT OF THE CITYOF ZAMBOANGA;” andRepublic Act No. 9270 - “AN ACT NAMING THE NATIONAL ROAD FROM THE INTERSECTION OF GOVERNOR CAMINS ROAD AND VETERANS AVENUE UP TO LICOMO IN THE CITY OF ZAMBOANGA TO MARIA CLARA L. LOBREGAT HIGHWAY”;TO THE ARCHIVES Letter of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs, Office of the President dated March 29, 2004 transmitting herewith two (2) original copies of Republic Act No. 9272 which lapsed into law on March 20, 2004 without the signature of the President, pursuant to the provisions of Section 27(1), Article VI of the Constitution, entitled:“AN ACT ESTABLISHING THE NUEVA VIZCAYA STATE UNIVERSITY IN THE PROVINCE OF NUEVA VIZCAYA BY INTEGRATING THE NUEVA VIZCAYA STATE INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF BAYOMBONG, AND THE NUEVA VIZCAYA STATE POLYTECHNIC COLLEGE IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF BAMBANG, BOTH LOCATED IN THE PROVINCE OF NUEVA VIZCAYA, APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”TO THE ARCHIVESLetter of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs, Office of the President dated April 2, 2004 transmitting herewith two (2) original copies of Republic Act No. 9283 which lapsed law into on April 1, 2004 without the signature of the President, pursuant to the provisions of Section 27(1), Article VI of the Constitution, entitled:“AN ACT EXPANDING THE AREA OF OPERATION OF THE FRANCHISE OF EDISON C. ESPINOSA, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SECTION 1 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8101 AND CONVERTING THE GRANTEE INTO A CORPORATION”TO THE ARCHIVESLetter of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs, Office of the President dated March 19, 2004 transmitting herewith two (2) original copies each of the following Republic Acts which were approved and signed into law on March19, 2004 and March 21, 2004, respectively by Her Excellency, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, to wit:Republic Act No. 9271 - “AN ACT STRENGTHENING THE REGULATORY CAPACITY OF THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH IN QUARANTINE AND INTERNATIONAL HEALTH SURVEILLANCE, REPEALING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 123 OF 1947, AS AMENDED;” and Republic Act No. 9273 - “AN ACT CONVERTING THE PANAY STATE POLYTECHNIC COLLEGE IN

THE PROVINCE OF CAPIZ INTO A STATE UNIVERSITY TO BE KNOWN AS THE CAPIZ STATE UNIVERSITY (CAPSU) AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”TO THE ARCHIVES Letter of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs, Office of the President dated April 13, 2004 transmitting herewith two (2) original copies of Republic Act No. 9274 which was approved and signed into law on March 21, 2004 by Her Excellency, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, entitled:“AN ACT CREATING TWO (2) ADDITIONAL MUNICIPAL TRIAL COURT BRANCHES IN THE CITY OF ROXAS, PROVINCE OF CAPIZ, AMENDING FOR THAT PURPOSE SECTION 29 OF BATAS PAMBANSA BLG. 129, AS AMENDED, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE JUDICIARY REORGANIZATION ACT OF 1980”TO THE ARCHIVESLetter of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs, Office of the President dated April 13, 2004 transmitting herewith two (2) original copies each of the following Republic Acts which were approved and signed into law on March22, 2004 and March 31, 2004, respectively by Her Excellency, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, to wit:Republic Act No. 9275- “AN ACT PROVIDING FOR A COMPREHENSIVE WATER QUALITY MANAGEMENT AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES;” and Republic Act No. 9284 - “AN ACT AMENDING AND EXTENDING THE TERM OF THE FRANCHISE GRANTED TO CAGAYAN ELECTRIC POWER AND LIGHT CO., INC. UNDER REPUBLIC ACT NUMBERED THIRTY-TWO HUNDRED FORTY-SEVEN, AS AMENDED BY REPUBLIC ACT NUMBERED THIRTY-FIVE HUNDRED SEVENTY AND REPUBLIC ACT NUMBERED SIXTY HUNDRED TWENTY”TO THE ARCHIVESLetter of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs, Office of the President dated March 29, 2004 transmitting herewith two (2) original copies of Republic Act No. 9276 which was approved and signed into law on March 26, 2004 by Her Excellency, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, entitled:“AN ACT AMENDING SECTION 29 OF BATAS PAMBANSA BLG. 129, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE JUDICIARY REORGANIZATION ACT OF 1980”TO THE ARCHIVESLetter of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs, Office of the President dated March 30, 2004 transmitting herewith two (2) original copies of Republic Act No. 9277 which lapsed into law on March 28, 2004 without the signature of the President, pursuant to the provisions of Section 27(1), Article VI of the Constitution, entitled:“AN ACT GRANTING THE LEYTE STATE UNIVERSITY A FRANCHISE TO CONSTRUCT, INSTALL, ESTABLISH, OPERATE AND MAINTAIN FOR EDUCATIONAL AND NON-COMMERCIAL PURPOSES RADIO AND TELEVISION BROADCASTING STATIONS WITHIN THE CAMPUSES OF LEYTE STATE UNIVERSITY”TO THE ARCHIVESLetter of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs, Office of the President dated March 30, 2004 transmitting herewith two (2) original copies of Republic Act No. 9278 which lapsed into law on March 28, 2004 without the signature of the President, pursuant to the provisions of Section 27(1), Article VI of the Constitution, entitled:“AN ACT GRANTING THE IVATAN FOUNDATION FOR DEVELOPMENT COMMUNICATIONS INCORPORATED AFRANCHISE TO CONSTRUCT, INSTALL, ESTABLISH, OPERATE AND MAINTAIN RADIO BROADCASTING STATIONS IN THE PROVINCE OF BATANES”TO THE ARCHIVESLetter of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs, Office of the President dated April 1, 2004 transmitting herewith two (2) original copies eachof the following Republic Acts which were approved and signed into law on March 30, 2004 by Her Excellency President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, to wit:Republic Act No. 9280 - “AN ACT REGULATING THE PRACTICE OF CUSTOMS BROKERS PROFESSION IN THE PHILIPPINES, CREATING FOR THE PURPOSE A PROFESSIONAL REGULATORY BOARD FOR CUSTOMS BROKERS, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR;” andRepublic Act No. 9281 - “AN ACT TO STRENGTHEN THE AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES MODERNIZATION IN THE PHILIPPINES BY EXTENDING THE EFFECTIVITY OF TAX INCENTIVES AND ITS MANDATED FUNDING SUPPORT, AMENDING FOR THIS PURPOSE SECTIONS 109 AND 112 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8435”TO THE ARCHIVESLetter of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs, Office of the President dated April 2, 2004 transmitting herewith two (2) original copies of Republic Act No. 9282 which was approved and signed into law on March 30, 2004 by

Her Excellency, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, entitled:“AN ACT EXPANDING THE JURISDICTION OF THE COURT OF TAX APPEALS (CTA), ELEVATING ITS RANK TO THE LEVEL OF A COLLEGIATE COURT WITH SPECIAL JURISDICTION AND ENLARGING ITS MEMBERSHIP, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE CERTAIN SECTIONS OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 1125, AS AMENDED, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE LAW CREATING THE COURT OF TAX APPEALS, AND FOR OTHERPURPOSES”TO THE ARCHIVES Letter of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs, Office of the President dated April 6, 2004 transmitting herewith two (2) original copies eachof the following Republic Acts, which were approved and signed into law on April 2, 2004 by Her Excellency, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, to wit:Republic Act No. 9285 - “AN ACT TO INSTITUTIONALIZE THE USE OF AN ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION SYSTEM IN THE PHILIPPINES AND TO ESTABLISH THE OFFICE FOR ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”; Republic Act No. 9286 - “AN ACT FURTHER AMENDING PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 198, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE ‘PROVINCIAL WATER UTILITIES ACT OF 1973’, AS AMENDED;” andRepublic Act No. 9287 - “AN ACT INCREASING THE PENALTIES FOR ILLEGAL NUMBERS GAMES, AMENDING CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 1602, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”TO THE ARCHIVESLetter of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs, Office of the President dated April 14, 2004 transmitting herewith two (2) original copies of Republic Act No. 9289 which was approved and signed into law on April 14, 2004 by Her Excellency, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, entitled:“AN ACT CONVERTING THE MARIKINA INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY (MIST) INTO THE MARIKINA POLYTECHNIC COLLEGE (MPC), DEFINING ITS POWERS, FUNCTIONS, AND DUTIES, APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”TO THE ARCHIVESLetter of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs, Office of the President dated April 20, 2004 transmitting herewith two (2) original copies of Republic Act No. 9288 which was approved and signed into law on April 7, 2004 by HerExcellency, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, entitled:“AN ACT PROMULGATING A COMPREHENSIVE POLICY AND A NATIONAL SYSTEM FOR ENSURING NEWBORN SCREENING”TO THE ARCHIVESLetter of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs, Office of the President dated April 20, 2004 transmitting herewith two (2) original copies of Republic Act No. 9290 which was approved and signed into law on April 15, 2004 by Her Excellency, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, entitled:“AN ACT PROMOTING THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE FOOTWEAR, LEATHER GOODS AND TANNERY INDUSTRIES, PROVIDING INCENTIVES THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”TO THE ARCHIVESLetter of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs, Office of the President dated April 20, 2004 transmitting herewith two (2) original copies of Republic Act No. 9291 which lapsed into law on April 16, 2004 without the signature of the President, pursuant to the provisions of Section 27(1), Article VI of the Constitution, entitled:“AN ACT UPGRADING THE ZAMBALES SUBDISTRICT ENGINEERING OFFICE INTO A REGULAR ENGINEERING OFFICE TO BE KNOWN AS THE ZAMBALES SECOND DISTRICT ENGINEERING OFFICE AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”TO THE ARCHIVESLetter of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs, Office of the President dated April 20, 2004 transmitting herewith two (2) original copies of Republic Act No. 9292 which was approved and signed into law on April 17, 2004 by Her Excellency, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, entitled:“AN ACT PROVIDING FOR A MORE RESPONSIVE AND COMPREHENSIVE REGULATION FOR THE REGISTRATION, LICENSING AND PRACTICE OF PROFESSIONAL ELECTRONICS ENGINEERS AND ELECTRONICS TECHNICIANS, REPEALING REPUBLIC ACT NO. 5734, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS ‘THE ELECTRONICS AND COMMUNICATIONS ENGINEERING ACT OF THE PHILIPPINES,’ AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”TO THE ARCHIVESLetter of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs, Office of the President dated April 22, 2004 transmitting herewith two (2) original copies of Republic Act No. 9279 which was approved and signed into law on March 30, 2004 by

Her Excellency, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, entitled:“AN ACT GRANTING ADDITIONAL COMPENSATION IN THE FORM OF SPECIAL ALLOWANCES FOR THE MEMBERS OF THE NATIONAL PROSECUTION SERVICE AND THE STATE COUNSELS IN THE DEPARTMENTOF JUSTICE, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”TO THE ARCHIVESLetter of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs, Office of the President dated April 22, 2004 transmitting herewith two (2) original copies of Republic Act No. 9293 which was approved and signed into law on April 21, 2004 by Her Excellency, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, entitled:“AN ACT AMENDING CERTAIN SECTIONS OF REPUBLIC ACT NUMBERED SEVENTY-EIGHT HUNDRED ANDTHIRTY-SIX (R.A. NO. 7836), OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE ‘PHILIPPINE TEACHERS PROFESSIONALIZATION ACT OF 1994”’TO THE ARCHIVES Letter of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs, Office of the President dated April 29, 2004 transmitting herewith two (2) original copies of Republic Act No. 9294 which was approved and signed into law on April 28, 2004 by Her Excellency, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, entitled:“AN ACT RESTORING THE TAX EXEMPTION OF OFFSHORE BANKING UNITS (OBUs) AND FOREIGN CURRENCY DEPOSIT UNITS (FCDUs), AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SECTION 27(D)(3) AND SECTION 28, PARAGRAPHS (A)(4) AND (A)(7)(b) OF THE NATIONAL INTERNAL REVENUE CODE, AS AMENDED”TO THE ARCHIVESLetter of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs, Office of the President dated May 5, 2004 transmitting herewith two (2) original copies of Republic Act No. 9295 which was approved and signed into law on May 3, 2004 by Her Excellency, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, entitled:“AN ACT PROMOTING THE DEVELOPMENT OF PHILIPPINE DOMESTIC SHIPPING, SHIPBUILDING, SHIP REPAIR AND SHIP BREAKING, ORDAINING REFORMS IN GOVERNMENT POLICIES TOWARDS SHIPPING IN THE PHILIPPINES, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”TO THE ARCHIVESLetter of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs, Office of the President dated May 13, 2004 transmitting herewith two (2) original copies of Republic Act No. 9296 which was approved and signed into law on May 12, 2004 by Her Excellency, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, entitled:“AN ACT STRENGTHENING THE MEAT INSPECTION SYSTEM IN THE COUNTRY, ORDAINING FOR THIS PURPOSE ‘A MEAT INSPECTION CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES’ AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”TO THE ARCHIVESLetter of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs, Office of the President dated May 14, 2004 transmitting herewith two (2) original copies of the following Republic Acts which were approved and signed into law on May 13, 2004 by Her Excellency, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, entitled:Republic Act No. 9297 - “AN ACT REGULATING THE PRACTICE OF CHEMICAL ENGINEERING ANDREPEALING FOR THIS PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NUMBERED THREE HUNDRED AND EIGHTEEN (R.A. NO. 318), OTHERWISE KNOWN AS ‘THE CHEMICAL ENGINEERING LAW;” andRepublic Act No. 9298 - “AN ACT REGULATING THE PRACTICE OF ACCOUNTANCY IN THE PHILIPPINES, REPEALING FOR THE PURPOSE PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 692, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE REVISED ACCOUNTANCY LAW, APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”TO THE ARCHIVES Letter dated April 2004 of Alberto V. Reyes, Officer-in-Charge, Office of the Governor, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, submitting a Report on the Status of the Philippine Financial System for the second semester of 2003TO THE COMMITTEE ON BANKS AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIESLetter dated 28 April 2004 of Alberto V. Reyes, Officer-in-Charge, Office of the Governor, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, submitting a Report on the Public Sector Foreign Loans approved by the BSP during the First Quarter of 2004TO THE COMMITTEE ON BANKS AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIESLetter dated 26 April 2004 of Guillermo N. Carague, Chairman, Commission on Audit, submitting the GAA of Fiscal Year 2003, the Annual COA Report on Allotments, Obligations, and Disbursements and The Detailed Schedule of Selected Maintenance andOther Operating Expenses and Capital Outlays of National Government AgenciesTO THE COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS Letter dated January 27, 2004 of Juan de Zuñiga, Jr., Assistant Governor & General Counsel, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, furnishing the House with a copy of BSP

Circular No. 414, Series of 2004 dated January 13, 2004TO THE COMMITTEE ON BANKS AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIESLetters dated February 16, 2004 of Juan de Zuñiga, Jr., Assistant Governor & GeneralCounsel, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas furnishing the House with copies of the following:BSP Circular No. 415, Series of 2004 dated January 20, 2004;BSP Circular No. 416, Series of 2004 dated January 21, 2004;BSP Circular No. 417, Series of 2004 dated January 28, 2004;Memorandum to all commercial and thrift banks dated December 30, 2003;Memo to all banks and non-bank financial institutions under BSP supervision dated January 22, 2004;Memo to all universal banks and commercial banks dated January 26, 2004;Memo to all banks and non-bank financial institutions dated January 27, 2004;BSP Circular Memorandum to all banks dated January 27, 2004; andMemo to all rural banks and cooperative banks dated February 3, 2004TO THE COMMITTEE ON BANKS AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIESLetters dated March 4, 2004 of Juan de Zuñiga, Jr., Assistant Governor & General Counsel, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, furnishing the House with copies of the following:BSP Circular No. 418, Series of 2004 dated February 5, 2004;BSP Circular No. 419, Series of 2004 dated February 2, 2004;BSP Circular No. 420, Series of 2004 dated February 10, 2004;Memo to all commercial banks dated January 26, 2004;Memo to Unibanks, Commercial banks and Non-Bank Financial Intermediaries Performing Trust, Other Fiduciary Business and Investment Management Activities dated February 5, 2004; andCircular Letter dated February 9, 2004TO THE COMMITTEE ON BANKS AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIESLetters dated March 25, 2004 of Juan de Zuñiga, Jr., Assistant Governor & General Counsel, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, furnishing the House with copies of the following:BSP Circular No. 421, Series of 2004 dated March 8, 2004;BSP Circular No. 422, Series of 2004 dated March 9, 2004;Memorandum to all NBQBs dated March 2, 2004; andMemorandum to all Thrift Banks dated February 20, 2004TO THE COMMITTEE BANKS AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIESLetter dated April 2, 2004 of Juan de Zuñiga, Jr., Assistant Governor and General Counsel, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, furnishing the House with copies of the following:BSP Circular No. 423, Series of 2004 dated March 15, 2004;BSP Circular No. 424, Series of 2004 dated March 23, 2004; andCircular letter - Additional Implementing Guidelines/Clarifications Relative to Circular No. 419 on D/A-O/A imports dated March 16, 2004TO THE COMMITTEE ON BANKS AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIESLetter dated March 11, 2004 of Juan de Zuñiga, Jr., Assistant Governor & General Counsel, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, furnishing the House with copies of the following:Memo to all Banks and Non-Bank Financial Institutions with Quasi-Banking Functions dated February 16, 2004; andCircular letter to all banks dated February 20, 2004TO THE COMMITTEE ON BANKS AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIESLetter dated April 12, 2004 of Rafael B. Buenaventura, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor, submitting the reports on the implementation of Republic Acts Numbered 7906 (Thrift Banks Act of 1995) and 8367 (Non-Stock Savings and Loan Associations Act of 1997)TO THE COMMITTEE ON BANKS AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIESLetter dated May 27, 2004 of Governor Rafael B. Buenaventura, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, transmitting the 2003 Report on the Implementation of Republic Act No. 7721 (Liberalizing the Entry and Scope of Operations of Foreign Banks in the Philippines)TO THE COMMITTEE ON BANKS AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIESLetter dated March 24, 2004 of Marcela S. Rafanan, Director IV, Malacañang Records Office, forwarding a certified true copy of Republic Act No. 9261 which lapsed into

law on March 7, 2004TO THE ARCHIVESLetter dated March 23, 2004 of Manuel B. Gaite, Deputy Executive Secretary for LegalAffairs, Malacañang providing the House a copy of the memorandum of Executive Secretary Alberto G. Romulo to the NEDA and the NAPC in relation to House ResolutionNo. 835TO THE COMMITTEE ON BANKS AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIESAnnual Audit Reports on the Meat Packing Corporation of the Philippines, GSIS MutualFund, Inc. (GMFI) (An Open-end Investment Company and a Subsidiary of the GovernmentService Insurance System), GSIS Family Bank (Formerly Comsavings Bank and a Subsidiary of the Government Service Insurance System), National Development Company, Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation, Small Business Guarantee and Finance Corporation, National Home Mortgage Finance Corporation, Home Guaranty Corporation, Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, Social Security System Land Bank of the Philippines for the year ended December 31, 2003TO THE COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONSAnnual Audit Reports on the Al Amanah Islamic Investment Bank of the Philippines, Trade and Investment Development Corporation of the Philippines, Philippine Export-Import Credit Agency, First Cavite Industrial Estate, Inc. (A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of the National Development Company), PHIVIDEC Industrial Authority (A Subsidiary of the Philippine Veterans Investment Development Corporation), Philippine Center for Economic Development, Tacoma Bay Shipping Corporation, Inc. (AWholly-Owned Subsidiary of the National Development Company, and Manila Gas Corporation (A Wholly-Owned subsidiary of the National Development Company) for the year ended December 31, 2003TO THE COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONSAnnual Audit Reports on the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, Land Bank of the Philippines Agrarian Reform Fund, LBP Leasing Corporation (A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of Land Bank of the Philippines), LB (Land Bank) Realty Development Corporation (A Wholly-Owned Subsidiary of Land Bank of the Philippines), LandBank Countryside Development Foundation, Inc., and Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation for the year endedDecember 31, 2003TO THE COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONSAnnual Audit Reports on the Mariano Marcos State University, Batac, Ilocos Norte; Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College, Santa Maria, Ilocos Sur; University of Northern Philippines, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur; Pangasinan State University, Lingayen,Pangasinan; Agusan Del Sur State College of Agriculture and Technology, Bunawan, Agusan del Sur; Surigao State College of Technology; Northern Mindanao State Institute of Science and Technology, Ampayon, Butuan City; Surigao Del Sur Polytechnic State College, Tandag, Surigao del Sur; Southern Philippines Agri-Business, Marine and Aquatic School of Technology, Malita, Davao del Sur; Davao Oriental State College of Science and Technology, Mati, Davao Oriental; Davao del Norte State College, Panabo City; University of Southeastern Philippines, Bo. Obrero, Davao City; Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology, Rio Hondo, Zamboanga City; Zamboanga City State Polytechnic College, Baliwasan, Zamboanga City; J.H. Cerilles State College, Mati, San Miguel, Zamboanga del Sur; Western Mindanao State University, Zamboanga City; and Jose Rizal Memorial State College, Dapitan City for the year ended December 31, 2003TO THE COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONSAnnual Audit Reports on the Eastern Samar State College, Borongan, Eastern Samar; Leyte Institute of Technology, Tacloban City; Leyte Normal University, Tacloban City; Naval Institute of Technology, Naval, Biliran; Palompon Institute of Technology, Palompon, Leyte; Samar State College of Agriculture and Forestry, San Jorge, Samar; Samar State Polytechnic College, Catbalogan, Samar; Southern Leyte State College of Science and Technology, Sogod, Southern Leyte; Tiburcio Tancinco Memorial Institute of Science and Technology; Tomas Oppus Normal College, San Isidro, Tomas Oppus, Southern Leyte; University of Eastern Philippines, Catarman, Northern Samar; and Leyte State University Baybay, Leyte for the year ended December31, 2003TO THE COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONSAnnual Audit Reports on the Cebu Normal University, Cebu State College of Science

and Technology, and Central Visayas State College of Agriculture, Forestry and Technology for the year ended December 31, 2003TO THE COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONSAnnual Audit Reports on the Aklan State University, Banga, Aklan; Carlos Hilado Memorial State College, Talisay City, Negros Occidental; Guimaras State College, Buenavista, Guimaras; Iloilo State College of Fisheries, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo; Negros State College of Agriculture, Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental; Northern Iloilo Polytechnic State College, Estancia, Iloilo; Northern Negros State College ofScience and Technology, Sagay City, Negros Occidental; Panay State Polytechnic College, Roxas City, Capiz; Polytechnic State College of Antique, Sibalom, Antique; Western Visayas College of Science and Technology, La Paz, Iloilo City; and West Visayas State University & Medical Center, La Paz, Iloilo City for the year ended December 31, 2003TO THE COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS2002 Annual Report of the Philippine Ports AuthorityTO THE COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS2003 Annual Report of the Department of Science and TechnologyTO THE COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS2003 Annual Accomplishment Report, AFP Modernization Program, featuring “The DawningReality”TO THE COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONSAnnual Audit Reports on the Philippine Institute for Development Studies, Employees’ Compensation Commission, National Stevedoring and Lighterage Corporation,National Trucking and Forwarding Corporation, GY Real Estate, Inc., Kamayan Realty Corporation, Luzon Integrated Services, Inc., National Slipways Corporation, Pinagkaisa Realty Corporation, National Precision Cutting Tools, Inc., Batangas LandCompany, Inc., Inter-Island Gas Service, Inc., and Philippine National Lines for theyear ended December 31, 2003TO THE COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONSAnnual Audit Reports on the Lung Center of the Philippines, Development Bank of the Philippines, Home Development Mutual Fund (HDMF), Nayong Pilipino Foundation, Inc., Philippine Children’s Medical Center, Development Academy of the Philippines, Technology and Livelihood Resource Center, Philippine Leisure and Retirement Authority, Occupational Safety and Health Center, Cultural Center of the Philippines, Philippine Institute of Traditional and Alternative Health Care, Philippine Heart Center, National Kidney and Transplant Institute and People’s Television Network, Inc. for the year ended December 31, 2003TO THE COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONSAnnual Audit Reports on the Office of the Press Secretary, Bureau of Broadcast Services, Bureau of Communications Services, News and Information Bureau, National Printing Office, Presidential Broadcast Staff, Philippine Information Agency, Department of Budget and Management, Procurement Service, Department of Finance, Bureau of Customs, Bureau of Internal Revenue, Bureau of Local Government Finance, Bureau of the Treasury, Central Board of Assessment Appeals, Fiscal Incentives Review Board, Insurance Commission, National Tax Research Center, Privatization and Management Office, Municipal Development Fund Office, Securities and Exchange Commission, Agno River Basin Development Commission, Metro Cebu Development Project III, Atlas Commission, ARMM Social Fund for Peace and Development, Cagayan de Oro - Iligan Corridor Special Development Project, Project Management Office, Mindanao Economic Development Council and Davao Integrated Development Program for the year ended December 31, 2002TO THE COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONSAnnual Audit Reports on the Office of the President, Board of Liquidators, Coordinating Council for Private Sector Participation, Cooperative Development Authority, Commission on Filipino Language, Dangerous Drugs Board, Energy RegulatoryCommission, Games and Amusement Board, Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board, Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council, Pinatubo Project Management Office, Movie and Television Review and Classification Board, National Amnesty Commission, National Anti-Poverty Commission, National Book Development Board, National Commission on Culture and the Arts, National Commission on Indigenous People, National Commission on the Role of Filipino Women, National Historical Institute, National Intelligence Coordinating Agency, National Museum, National Security Council, National Water Resources Board, National Youth Commission, Office

on Muslim Affairs, Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Process, PresidentialAnti-Graft Commission, Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission, Palawan Councilfor Sustainable Development Staff, Presidential Commission on Urban Poor, PhilippineRacing Commission, Presidential Legislative Liaison Office, Presidential Management Staff and Presidential Commission on Good Government for the year ended December 31,2002TO THE COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONSAnnual Audit Reports on the Professional Regulation Commission, Philippine Sports Commission, Records Management and Archives Office, The National Library, Videogram Regulatory Board, Office of the Vice President, National Economic and Development Authority, Commission on Population, National Statistical Coordination Board, National Statistics Office, Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency, Statistical Research and Training Center, Tariff Commission and Philippine National Oil Company and Subsidiaries for the year ended December 31, 2002

TO THE COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONSAnnual Audit Report on the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas for the year ended December 31, 2003TO THE COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS

REQUEST OF REP. DILANGALEN

At this point, Rep. Dilangalen requested that the reading of the Communications be done slowly so that he could catch up.

REMARKS OF THE CHAIR

Whereupon the Chair directed the Secretary General to go slowly.

COMMUNICATIONS(Continuation)

Fourth Quarter 2003 Report on Economic and Financial Developments in the PhilippinesTO THE COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS2002 National Air Quality Status Report of the Department of Environment and NaturalResourcesTO THE COMMITTEE ON NATURAL RESOURCES2003 Annual Report of the Bangko Sentral ng PilipinasTO THE COMMITTEE ON BANKS AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES2003 Annual Report of the Department of Labor and Employment TO THE COMMITTEE ON LABOR AND EMPLOYMENT2003 Annual Report of the Department of Justice, Parole and Probation Administration, Region V TO THE COMMITTEE ON JUSTICECOMMITTEE REPORTReport by the Committee on Labor and Employment (Committee Report No. 2113), re H.R.No. 1481, entitled:“RESOLUTION REQUESTING HER EXCELLENCY PRESIDENT GLORIA MACAPAGAL-ARROYO TO IMMEDIATELY RECALL EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 182 DATED 14 FEBRUARY 2003 WHICH AUTHORIZED THE TRANSFER OF THE MEDICARE FUNDS UNDER THE CHARGE AND CARE OF THE OVERSEAS WORKERSWELFARE ADMINISTRATION (OWWA) TO THE PHILIPPINE HEALTH INSURANCE CORPORATION (PHILHEALTH) AND TO HOLD IN ABEYANCE ANY SUCH TRANSFER OF THE MEDICARE FUNDS UNTIL FURTHER CONSULTATIONS AND STUDIES HAVE BEEN CONDUCTED AND COMPLETED TO MAXIMIZE THE MEDICAL AND HEALTH BENEFITS OF OUR OFWS”recommending its adoption in substitution of House Resolution No. 1353.Sponsors: Representatives Barinaga, Lagman-Luistro, Aguja and ViradorTO THE COMMITTEE ON RULES

MOTION OF REP. GONZALES

Subsequently, Rep. Gonzales moved that the Body adopt Senate Bill No. 2732, entitled"AN ACT AMENDING CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7471 ENTITLED, 'AN ACT TO PROMOTE THE DEVELOPMENT OF PHILIPPINE OVERSEAS SHIPPING AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES'", as

an amendment to House Bill No. 5770

QUERY OF REP. DILANGALEN

Upon recognition by the Chair, Rep. Dilangalen asked for a copy of the Conference Committee Report on the aforecited Senate Bill.


The Chair suspended the session at 2:49 p.m.



ADOPTION OF SENATE BILL NO. 2732 AS AMENDMENTS TO HOUSE BILL NO. 5770There being no objection to Rep. Gonzales' motion, the Body adopted Senate Bill No. 2732 as an amendment to House Bill No. 5770.ADOPTION OF SENATE BILL NO. 2572 AS AN AMENDMENT TO HOUSE BILL NO. 6073

On motion of Rep. Gonzales, there being no objection, the Body adopted Senate Bill No. 2572, entitled "AN ACT RECLASSIFYING A PORTION OF LAND COMPRISING FIVE HUNDRED TWELVE AND EIGHTY HECTARES OF PUBLIC LAND UNDER TIMBERLAND PROJECT NO. 13-G, BLOCK A, AS PER LAND CLASSIFICATION MAP NUMBER 3400 IN BARANGAY RANSANG, MUNICIPALITY OF RIZAL, PROVINCE OF PALAWAN AS AGRICULTURAL LAND OPEN FOR DISPOSITION, as an amendment to House Bill No. 6073.


Subsequently, Rep. Gonzales moved that the Body adopt Senate Bill 2726 as an amendment to House Bill No. 6167.

REQUEST OF REP. MACIAS

Upon recognition by the Chair, Rep. Emilio C. Macias II asked that the title of the measure be read so that he will know what it was all about.

ADOPTION OF SENATE BILL NO. 2726 AS AN AMENDMENT TO HOUSE BILL NO. 6167

After Rep. Gonzales read the title of Senate Bill No. 2726, "AN ACT TO ESTABLISH MT.MALINDONG NATURAL PARK LOCATED IN PROVINCE OF MISAMIS OCCIDENTAL AS A PROTECTED AREAAND ITS PERIPHERAL AREAS AS BUFFER ZONE, PROVIDING FOR ITS MANAGEMENT PURSUANT TO REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7586 (NIPAS ACT OF 1992) AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES,” there being no objection, the Body approved said measure as an amendment to House Bill No. 6167.

ADOPTION OF SENATE AMENDMENTS TO SEVERAL HOUSE BILLS

Upon consultation with their respective Committee Chairmen and Sponsors, on motion of Rep. Gonzales, there being no objection, the Body adopted the Senate amendments to the following House Bills:

House Bill No. 3595 granting a franchise to Fiber Telecommunications, Inc.;

House Bill No. 4873 granting a franchise to Radio Corporation of the Philippines;

House Bill No. 6277 granting a franchise to eTelco Inc;

House Bill No. 3996 granting a franchise to SLL International Cable Specialist Corporation;

House Bill No. 4062 granting a franchise to Datelcom Corporation;

House Bill No. 5572 granting a franchise to Claveria Agri-Based-Multipurpose Cooperative;

House Bill No. 5132 converting the Leyte Institute of Technology into the Eastern Visayas State University;

House Bill No. 5153 creating the Samar State University;

House Bill No 5633 converting the Central Visayas Polytechnic College as the Negros Oriental State University;

House Bill No. 5951 establishing the Eastern Samar State University in Borongan, Eastern Samar;

House Bill No. 4940 naming the Philippine National Police provincial office in Lagawe, Ifugao as Col. Joaquin Donuan;

House Bill No. 4945 naming the Philippine National Police provincial office in Maasin, Southern Leyte as Gov. Alfredo K. Bantug;

House Bill No. 1934 converting certain roads in the First District of Northern Samaras national roads;

House Bill No. 5637 renaming a stretch of road in San Jose, Occidental Mindoro as Felix Y. Manalo Avenue; and

House Bill No. 5202 converting the Batanes Polytechnic College into the Batanes State College of Science and Technology.

At this point, the Chair recognized Rep. Teodoro L. Locsin Jr. for a parliamentary inquiry.

PARLIAMENTARY INQUIRY OF REP. LOCSIN

Rep. Locsin asked when Congress would adopt the Committee Report of the Joint Committee which was tasked to canvass the votes for Presidential and Vice-Presidential candidates in the May 10, 2004 elections, and would proclaim the President and Vice-President. He said that the Supreme Court had sustained the validity of the Joint Committee principally because of the Committee's clear subsidiary role and complete dependence upon Congress, for its life and authority tocanvass the votes. To say that the Committee stands on its own, he opined, would fly against the essential claim that it is a subsidiary one with a delegated task.

Rep. Locsin pointed out that there is no such thing as Congress in the generic sensebut only a Tenth, Eleventh or Twelfth Congress, as the case may be, whose duty is tocanvass the votes for president and vice-president in plenary session or by joint committee and to proclaim the winners. He asked what assurance would there be that the life of the Twelfth Congress would not be thereby extinguished once it adjourns session, and would render impossible the completion of said canvassing. He said that it cannot be argued that the Twelfth Congress, acting as the National Board of Canvassers, survives after it exists as such. He added that canvassing is a task undertaken merely by the legislature and not by another institution alongside it andexisting on its own; and that the task of canvassing is a mere add-on to Congress' sovereign work of legislation. He concluded that logic argues that the lesser cannot survive the greater and the child in the womb cannot outlive the death of itsmother.

Rep. Locsin also pointed out that the Body's business falls dead to the ground upon adjournment of session; and remarked that at best, the effect of adjournment is

uncertain.

Rep. Locsin thereupon opined that the last thing that the Members want to do is to bring the matter again to the Supreme Court so that the latter can tell them anew what to do with themselves, remarking that they might as well become a sub-agency ofthe court. He suggested that Congress, having pointedly suspended rather than adjourned two weeks earlier, leave well enough alone and continue as it had been doing while in suspended animation. While affirming that the Constitution provides that "Congress shall convene once every year on the Fourth Monday of July, which is July 26, for its regular session, he said that unless a different date is set by law, it shall continue to be in session for such number of days as it may determine until 30 days before the opening of its next regular session", He said that these dates are not immovable but flexible. To start with, he explained, the 30-day periodappears to refer to the regular session of Congress and not to its last session where the Members' terms will end and when it is entrusted every six years with the open-ended task of canvassing the votes and proclaiming the President and Vice-President.

Rep. Locsin added that the Constitution provides that "The President may call a special session at any time." He opined that even after June 30, when the new President shall have been proclaimed, the Twelfth Congress may still be called to a session because the Thirteenth Congress does not yet exist.

Rep. Locsin stressed that it was argued that the separate adjournments of the two Houses of Congress would not disturb the continued suspension and subsequent reanimation of the Joint Session. He, however, asked whether a Joint Body could liveon when its two component parts have expired and whether the separate Houses of a Joint Session of Congress which had suspended itself can stir back into life each onits own for any business without first calling the Joint Session to life. He submitted that the 30-day period does not bind Congress to adjourn its session that day. He then suggested that the tables and chairs be rearranged to continue with thecanvassing and that the regular sessions remain suspended.

Speaker De Venecia pointed out that the adjournment proposed that afternoon is an adjournment sine die which means that the legislative calendar of the House of Representatives and of the Senate, as agreed in July 2001, would now come to an end.He explained that the lawmaking function of the House comes to an end once Congress adjourns its session sine die. However, he said, it is recognized that even if Congress adjourns, the presidential power to call Congress to a special session remains.

Speaker De Venecia stressed that the mandate given by both Houses of Congress which authorizes the convening of a joint canvassing committee to canvass the presidentialand vice-presidential elections following the approval of the Joint Rules of Canvass, and the Joint Committee has now taken on its tasks and duties and it is nowwell on its way of conducting the presidential and vice-presidential canvass. He stated that when its task is completed, the Joint Committee would present its collective work to a reconvened joint public session of both Houses of Congress, performing its role as a National Canvassing Board mandated by the Constitution, in order to approve or disapprove the report submitted by said Committee. He proposed that the Body terminate its legislative calendar by adjourning sine die which the Senate is doing at the moment. He then expressed hope that he had answered and clarified the parliamentary inquiry of Rep. Locsin.

At this point, Reps. Dilangalen, Locsin and Baterina simultaneously sought the recognition of the Chair.

Thereafter, the Chair recognized Rep. Locsin.

REMARKS OF REP. LOCSIN

Rep. Locsin informed the Body that he had just spoken with Senator Joker P. Arroyo and that the latter had said that the Senate had not taken up the matter.

Out of respect for both Houses, Speaker De Venecia pointed out that that the reason they had suspended the session right after convening at ten o’clock that morning wasprecisely to inquire from and to await the action of the Senate. He said that it is essential that on this important day, both Houses of Congress would act in tandem inorder not to confuse the people.

Rep. Locsin stated that he understands that the initiative to adjourn sine die was from the Senate.

Speaker De Venecia pointed out that the initiative to adjourn sine die was an initiative of both Houses of Congress. He stated that he was proposing to adjourn sine die that day or by tomorrow which is in accordance with the Constitution that Congress shall adjourn 30 working session days prior to the opening of the next regular session of Congress, exclusive of Saturdays and Sundays and holidays. He said that the Senate had sought to terminate the session that day. He added that hisproposal was to adjourn tomorrow but since the premises of the House would be neededby the Joint Canvassing Committee after the House adjourns its session sine die, theleadership in consultation with the other Members had agreed that the session be adjourned sine die on that day.

Rep. Locsin stated that the Body had two choices: either to continue in suspended animation or take up this new issue of adjourning sine die. He inquired whether the Body had weighed the risks involved in the two options and whether it would matter which option the Body would adopt.

Speaker De Venecia replied that while the Body may consider other options, it does not have much choice as the Constitution is clear that Congress must adjourn its sessions sine die 30 days, excluding Saturdays, Sundays and holidays before the nextopening of Congress which will be on July 26, 2004.

Thereafter, the Chair recognized Rep. Dilangalen on a parliamentary inquiry.


Rep. Dilangalen stressed that the Constitution is very clear that the Congress of the Philippines shall convene on the fourth Monday of July and shall continue to convene as such until 30 days prior to the opening of the next regular session of Congress, exclusive of Saturdays, Sundays and holidays.

Based on the statements of Speaker De Venecia, he inquired whether under the circumstances, the Body had to make a distinction between Congress acting as a legislative body and as the National Board of Canvassers so that if it was in pursuance of its legislative functions, the Body can adjourn sine die but can still continue acting as such pursuant to its constitutional mandate as the National Boardof Canvassers.

Speaker De Venecia replied that pursuant to Section 15, Article VI of the Constitution, the 1992 and 1998 Congresses adjourned sine die even before the convening of the Joint Session of Congress to undertake the canvass of the presidential and vice-presidential elections to proclaim the next President and Vice-President of the Republic.Rep. Dilangalen stressed that the adjournment sine die under the two circumstances was pursuant to the Joint Resolution of both Houses of Congress. However, he pointedout that if it is not questioned, it becomes an operative fact that it is constitutional notwithstanding that the Constitution does not make any distinction.

Rep. Dilangalen opined that Section 15, Article VI of the Constitution does not makea distinction between Congress acting as a legislative body and as the National Board of Canvassers. He pointed out that Congress had tolerated the matter in 1992 and 1998 because it was a historical past and nobody questioned its constitutionality, making it an operative fact. But this time and as raised by Rep.

Locsin, he stressed that they are going to question the matter because the Constitution does not make a distinction between Congress acting as a legislative body and as a National Board of Canvassers.

Rep. Dilangalen stressed that the spring cannot rise above its source. He pointed out that Rep. Locsin was right when the latter cited the Supreme Court decision thatthe function of Congress as the national canvassing body was only an add-on mandate or responsibility which basically say that the function of Congress is legislative. He explained that if the Body adjourns sine die as a legislative body, Congress automatically could not act as a National Canvassing Board unless the Body cites theprovision of Section 15, Article VI of the Constitution which states that “The President of the Philippines must call for a special session at any time” which in this case is after the adjournment sine die of Congress. Under the circumstances, heopined that the only remedy is for the President to call for a special session, otherwise Congress as well as the Joint Committee could not just act administratively as a National Board of Canvassers. He further opined that if Congress cannot pursue its main function of legislation, it also could not perform apurely administrative function.

The Chair then noted the observation of Rep. Dilangalen.

At this point, Reps. Gonzales, Antonio Eduardo B. Nachura and Baterina simultaneously sought recognition from the Chair.

Thereafter, the Chair recognized Rep. Gonzales to be followed by Reps. Nachura and Baterina.

REMARKS OF REP. GONZALES (N.)

For the information of Rep. Dilangalen as well as of all the Members, Rep. Gonzales pointed out that before the Body constituted the adopted resolution calling for a Joint Session of Congress to sit as a National Canvassing Board, the quandary of theleadership at that time was to either adopt the previous mode of the 1992 and 1998 Congresses wherein it will adjourn sine die first before convening jointly to sit asa National Canvassing Board. However, he stressed that it was the decision of the leadership of both Houses of Congress at that time that to answer the call of the people for an early resolution of the canvassing of the presidential and vice-presidential elections, it would proceed immediately to adopt the resolution callingfor the Joint Session of Congress and would suspend in the meantime the legislative function of both Houses of Congress. He stated that the intention then was that after the canvassing by the Joint Committee, Congress could again resume with its legislative functions and approve the corresponding local and national bills that may be considered which the House did that day by approving the pending local bills before they suspended the session.

Rep. Gonzales pointed out that he disagrees with Rep. Dilangalen that there is no provision in the Constitution that distinguishes the function of Congress as a legislative body and as a National Board of Canvassers. He stated that it was correct that under Section 15, Article VI of the Constitution, Congress shall continue to be in session for such number of days at it may determine until 30 days before the opening of its next regular session. However, he maintained that there isanother provision in the Constitution that describes the function of both Houses to sit as a National Board of Canvassers and it takes place every other Congress because of the six-year term of the president and vice-president.

Rep. Gonzales explained that it being the Twelfth Congress and because of its constitutional mandate, Congress is now tasked as a National Board of Canvassers. Hepointed out that the Constitution is the authority of this Congress to continue withits function because of the specific provision that mandates it to be the national canvasser. He maintained that under the rule on statutory construction, the specificprovision which delineates the power of Congress to sit as the National Board of Canvassers governs over the general principle which is Section 15, Article VI of theConstitution. He further maintained that the authority of the said canvassing board

was the Joint Resolution adopted by both Houses of Congress that mandates them to sit jointly as the National Canvassing Board which would expire by June 30, 2004. Hesaid that the mere fact that Congress was adjourning sine die does not necessarily mean that its task becomes functus officio because their term of office would only expire by June 30, 2004.

Thereafter, the Chair recognized Rep. Nachura.

REMARKS OF REP. NACHURA

Rep. Nachura pointed out that if the Body adjourns sine die that day, they are not adjourning Congress itself but only its regular session which is provided for in Section 15, Article VI of the Constitution. He explained that Section 15 speaks of Congress convening once every year on the fourth Monday of July for its regular session unless a different date is fixed by law and shall continue to be in regular session for such number of days as it may determine until 30 days before the openingof the next regular session.

Rep. Nachura agreed with Rep. Gonzales that it is not Congress that is adjourned. Hesaid that when they adjourn sine die their regular session, they are not terminatingthe existence of Congress because they can be called to a special session before theexpiration of their terms of office on June 30, 2004.

Rep. Nachura maintained that the joint public session was in the nature of a specialsession that need not be called by the President of the Philippines considering thatSection 4, Article VII of the Constitution specifically calls Congress to that jointpublic session precisely for the purpose of canvassing and later proclaiming the president-elect and the vice-president elect.

Rep. Nachura likewise explained that Congress does not have a multi-faceted personality even as it does have multiple duties and functions -- taking up legislation in regular and special sessions and canvassing of votes for presidentialand vice-presential candidates in joint public session as provided for under Section14 of the Constitution. While these may be different legislative functions, this does not detract from the fact that Congress must, as a legislative body, perform its mandated functions, he stated.

Speaker De Venecia noted that Rep. Nachura's explanation was very clear.REMARKS OF REP. BATERINA

Upon recognition by the Chair, Rep. Baterina opined that the function of Congress tocanvass and thereafter proclaim the winning presidential and vice-presidential candidates must be an exception to the other legislative functions of Congress afterit adjourns sine die. Otherwise, he stressed, there would be a grotesque situation wherein after having adjourned its sessions sine die, Congress would still be canvassing the votes for the President and Vice-President.

Rep. Baterina thereafter pointed out that if Congress would follow the 30-day rule pertaining to its adjournment sine die, the same provides that Congress can only adjourn its session sine die if there were no presidential and vice-presidential elections. However, if there were presidential and vice-presidential elections during this period, and this being the exception, then Congress cannot adjourn sine die. He underscored that Congress would still have to proclaim the winners of the presidential and vice-presidential elections and this particular act would be prejudiced if Congress adjourns sine die. He reiterated that this function of Congress is an exception to the general rule.

REMARKS OF REP. JARAULA

Upon recognition by the Chair, Rep. Constantino G. Jaraula remarked that the Memberswould be enlightened about this particular Constitutional situation if they distinguish between an institution and the functions assigned or vested therein. In this particular case, Congress as an institution has the regular function that is

legislative in nature. However, under the Constitution it has an added function which is to serve as the National Board of Canvassers and on this basis, Congress isnot sitting ordinarily as Congress with legislative powers.

In other words, Rep. Jaraula maintained that the Constitution could have readily assigned the canvassing to the Comelec en banc or to any Constitutional or entirely independent body to canvass the results of the presidential and vice-presidential elections. However, he said that with the wisdom of the 1986 Constitutional Commissioners, and possibly because of convenience and facility, they delegated the power to Congress to serve as the National Board of Canvassers.

Thus, Rep. Jaraula pointed out that even if it adjourns sine die, Congress still continues to exist as an institution considering that what was only adjourned was its legislative functions and which function can only be reactivated by a call of the President for a Special Session to last until June 30, 2004, in this particular case, or until the end of the term of the Congress.

Continuing with his arguments, Rep. Jaraula explained that the function of the National Board of Canvassers is an entirely different function and power apart from the purely legislative function. Thus, he explained, if the Members would consider this distinction, there shall be no difficulty in understanding the continuance of the Twelfth Congress up to noon of June 30, 2004 and the performance by the same Congress of a specific power vested in it by the Constitution to serve as the National Board of Canvassers.

MANIFESTATION OF REP. BATERINA

Whereupon, Rep. Baterina sought the recognition of the Chair in order to interpellate Rep. Jaraula.

The Chair however recognized Rep. Prospero A. Pichay Jr. for his remarks.

REMARKS OF REP. PICHAY

Rep. Pichay maintained that the adjournment of Congress as a legislative body would not affect its function because of the distinction between the legislative function and the mandate of Congress to canvass the results of the presidential and vice-presidential elections.

He thereafter opined that the provision to canvass the results of the presidential and vice-presidential elections was actually contained under the administrative functions of the Executive Branch, as specifically provided under Section 4, ArticleVII of the Constitution. Thus, he stressed that even if Congress adjourns its regular session, Congress can still perform its mandated task, that is essentially an executive function, on the basis of the aforementioned Constitutional provision.

The Chair thereafter recognized Rep. Gerardo S. Espina Sr. for his remarks.

REMARKS OF REP. ESPINA

Rep. Espina initially noted that no law can be effective if it is essentially against the law of logic and reason. With this as opening statement, he stated that he would address the matter by way of dividing what could be the functions and responsibilities of Congress.

Rep. Espina thereafter enumerated and expounded on the four major functions of Congress, which were legislative, constituent, electoral and administrative. He thereafter pointed out that Congress does not cease to exist after it adjourns sine die considering that their term of office extends up to noon of June 30, 2004. Moreover, Congress would still be performing its administrative function to canvass the results of the presidential and vice-presidential elections since it will only be the legislative functions of Congress that will grind to a halt after it adjournsits regular session. He underscored that the long-delayed canvassing necessitates

the need to amend the Constitution.

REMARKS OF REP. PARAS

Rep. Paras initially inquired on the propriety of the House contemplating an adjournment of its session, particularly since this would delay the canvassing of the results of the elections which Congress was mandated to perform. He added that the Constitution does not make any distinction whether Congress performs its legislative or its function to serve as the National Board of Canvassers. This, because the phrase "The House of Representatives is in session" partakes of the factthat Congress have certain activities to perform while it is still in session, he pointed out. One of these activities, he said, is canvassing the results of the presidential and vice-presidential elections.

With regard to Congress adjourning sine die, Rep. Paras stated that this might create a Constitutional crisis that could hamper their mandated duty to canvass. Thus, he stated that if Congress would not proceed with its duty, there will be no presidential proclamation, particularly of Mr. Poe, who was already leading the preliminary canvassing.

MANIFESTATION OF REP. AQUINO (A.)

Upon recognition by the Chair, Rep. Agapito A. Aquino informed the Body that the Senate had already suspended its sessions that afternoon and that it will again resume its session tomorrow morning. He thereafter suggested that the Body suspend the sessions and similarly resume the same tomorrow at ten o'clock in the morning inorder for the Chamber to proceed with its canvassing that afternoon.

In reply, the Speaker explained that he was about to announce, in response to the proposal of Rep. Paras not to cause unnecessary delay in the canvassing, that the Joint Committee would resume the canvassing in the next few minutes. With regard tothe suggestion to suspend the session and resume the same tomorrow morning, he explained that this matter will be taken up with the leadership of the Senate.

The Speaker thereafter informed the Body that because of the request of the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas and the Bankers Association of the Philippines, and in order to protect the interests of 25 million depositors, the Body will be taking up the amended Bicameral Conference Committee Report increasing the insurance coverage for bank deposits from P100,000 to P250,000. He added that Reps. Jesli A. Lapus, Jose Carlos V. Lacson, and Jaime C.Lopez were responsible for resuscitating this measure to benefit millions of depositors.

The Speaker asked whether Rep. Lopez, chairman of the Committee on Banks and Financial Intermediaries, was ready to report out the amended report; otherwise, theBody could consider the same in the morning of the following day.

In reply, Rep. Lopez suggested that since clean copies of the measure were not yet available, he would have to ask the Chair to suspend the session and to resume the same the following day. This, he said, to enable the Committee to prepare clean copies of the amended report.


In the light of the manifestation of Rep. Lopez and in tandem with Rep. Lacson, the Speaker stated that the Body was amenable to the proposal to suspend the session until ten o'clock in the morning of June 11, 2004.

Whereupon, the Speaker directed the Secretary General to make arrangements for the expeditious resumption of the national canvass by both Chambers of Congress.

He thereafter suspended the session until ten o'clock in the morning of Friday, June11, 2004.

It was 3:40 p.m., Thursday, June 10, 2004.




Rep. Gonzales moved that the Body consider the Additional Reference of Business.

REMARKS OF THE SPEAKER

Before acting on the motion, the Speaker invited the newly proclaimed Congressman ofthe City of Pasig, Rep. Noel M. Cariño, and his family, for his historic oath-takingthat morning before the House. He pointed out that his case is one of a final victory on the last day of the Regular Session of the House. He remarked that it has been a more difficult journey for Rep. Cariño, but that it was better late than never. He asked the Members to honor a colleague who went through the travails of anelection protest before the House of Representatives Electoral Tribunal and two motions before the Supreme Court.

OATH-TAKING OF REP. CARIÑO

At this point, Rep. Cariño ascended the rostrum with his family and took his oath ofoffice, with the Speaker administering his oath.

Thereupon, the Speaker asked Rep. Cariño to take his seat of honor in the House and appointed him as an alternate member of the Joint Canvassing Committee.

ADDITIONAL REFERENCE OF BUSINESS

There being no objection to Rep. Gonzales' previous motion, the Body proceeded to the Additional Reference of Business.Upon direction of the Chair, the Secretary General read on First Reading the titles of the following House Resolutions, Committee Report, Message from the Senate and the Report of the Secretary General, which were referred to the appropriate Committees or consigned to the Archives as hereunder indicated:

RESOLUTIONHouse Resolution No. 1487, entitled:“RESOLUTION COMMENDING THE HONORABLE SPEAKER JOSE DE VENECIA JR. FOR HIS ABLE AND FIRM STEWARDSHIP OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES DURING THE TWELFTH CONGRESS”By Representatives Martinez and NogralesTO THE COMMITTEE ON RULESCOMMITTEE REPORTReport by the Committee on Transportation and Communications and the Committee on Trade and Industry, re Resolution Nos. 122, 208, 210 and 280 (as adopted), entitled:Resolution No. 122, entitled:“RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TO CONDUCT AN INVESTIGATION, IN AID OF LEGISLATION, INTO PUBLIC AUCTIONS OF CBU TRUCKS AND VEHICLES, HEAVY EQUIPMENT AND OTHER ITEMS”;Resolution No. 208, entitled:“RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION AND COMMUNICATIONS AND THE COMMITTEE ON TRADE AND INDUSTRY TO CONDUCT AN IMMEDIATE INVESTIGATION, IN AID OF LEGISLATION, INTO THE PURPORTED UPSURGE OF IMPORTATION AND AUCTION OF DEFECTIVE SECOND-HAND MOTOR VEHICLES”; Resolution No. 210, entitled:“RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE COMMITTEES ON TRANSPORTATION AND COMMUNICATIONS AND TRADE AND INDUSTRY TO INVESTIGATE, IN AID OF LEGISLATION, THE ONGOING AND MUCH PUBLICIZED PUBLIC AUCTIONS OF FOREIGN-MADE SECONDHAND HEAVY EQUIPMENT, VEHICLES AND OTHER ELECTRICAL AND RELATED MACHINES TO DETERMINE WHETHER OR NOT PERTINENT LAWS ARE VIOLATED”; and

Resolution No. 280, entitled:“RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE COMMITTEES ON TRANSPORTATION AND COMMUNICATIONS AND TRADE AND INDUSTRY TO CONDUCT AN INQUIRY, IN AID OF LEGISLATION, ON THE ALLEGED IMPORTATION, THROUGH THE SUBIC, OF VEHICLES AND THE SALE THEREOF, IN VIOLATION OF PHILIPPINE LAWS AND TO THE DETRIMENT OF THE SUBIC SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONE” Informing the House of its findings and recommendations.Sponsors: Representatives Paras, Abayon and AngpingTO THE COMMITTEE ON RULESMESSAGE FROM THE SENATEMessage dated June 10, 2004 informing the House of Representatives that the Senate on even date passed without amendments House Bill No. 6062, entitled:“AN ACT CONVERTING THE ISAAC LOPEZ ELEMENTARY SCHOOL IN MANDALUYONG CITY INTO AN INTEGRATED SCHOOL TO BE KNOWN AS THE ISAAC LOPEZ INTEGRATED SCHOOL AND APPROPRIATINGFUNDS THEREFOR”Report by the Secretary General submitting to the President the following enrolled bills pursuant to the provision of Rule VI, Section 18, Paragraph (h) of the Rules of the House of Representatives, as follows:1. Consolidated House Bill No. 5231 and Senate Bill No. 2660, entitled:“AN ACT AMENDING CERTAIN SECTIONS OF THE NATIONAL INTERNAL REVENUE CODE OF 1997, AS AMENDED, BY EXCLUDING SEVERAL SERVICES FROM THE COVERAGE OF THE VALUE-ADDED TAX AND RE-IMPOSING THE GROSS RECEIPTS TAX ON BANKS AND NON-BANK FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES PERFORMING QUASI-BANKING FUNCTIONS AND OTHER NON-BANK FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES BEGINNING JANUARY 1, 2004”(Now Republic Act No. 9238)2. Consolidated House Bill No. 5225 and Senate Bill No. 2586, entitled:“AN ACT REGULATING OPTICAL MEDIA, REORGANIZING FOR THIS PURPOSE THE VIDEOGRAM REGULATORY BOARD, PROVIDING PENALTIES THEREFOR, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”(Now Republic Act No. 9239)3. Consolidated House Bill Nos. 2266, 4480, 4481 and Senate Bill No. 2518, entitled:“AN ACT RATIONALIZING THE PROVISIONS ON THE DOCUMENTARY STAMP TAX OF THE NATIONAL INTERNAL REVENUE CODE OF 1997, AS AMENDED, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”(Now Republic Act No. 9243)4. Consolidated House Bill No. 6423 and Senate Bill No. 2398, entitled:“AN ACT ELIMINATING THE PREPARATORY RECALL ASSEMBLY AS A MODE OF INSTITUTING RECALL OF ELECTIVE LOCAL GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SECTIONS 70 AND 71,CHAPTER 5, TITLE ONE, BOOK I OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7160, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE ‘LOCALGOVERNMENT CODE OF 1991’, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”(Now Republic Act No. 9244)5. Consolidated Senate Bill No. 1860 and House Bill No. 4438, entitled:“AN ACT CREATING THE PHILIPPINE NATIONAL EAR INSTITUTE WITHIN THE UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES SYSTEM, DEFINING ITS POWERS AND FUNCTIONS, PROVIDING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”(Now Republic Act No. 9245)6. Consolidated House Bill No. 5351 and Senate Bill No. 2579, entitled:“AN ACT MODERNIZING THE PRACTICE OF LIBRARIANSHIP IN THE PHILIPPINES THEREBY REPEALING REPUBLIC ACT NO. 6966, ENTITLED: 'AN ACT REGULATING THE PRACTICE OF LIBRARIANSHIP AND PRESCRIBING THE QUALIFICATIONS OF LIBRARIANS,' APPROPRIATING FUNDSTHEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES” (Now Republic Act No. 9246)7. House Bill No. 1635, entitled:“AN ACT INCREASING THE NUMBER OF REGIONAL TRIAL COURT BRANCHES IN THE PROVINCE OF QUEZON AND LUCENA CITY FROM THIRTEEN (13) BRANCHES TO FOURTEEN (14) BRANCHES BY CREATING A NEW BRANCH WITH SEAT AT CATANAUAN, QUEZON, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SUBPARAGRAPH 8 AND PARAGRAPH (E) OF SECTION 14 OF BATAS PAMBANSA BLG. 129”

(Now Republic Act No. 9247)8. House Bill No. 5818, entitled:“AN ACT AMENDING SECTION 2 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 4894 OTHERWISE KNOWN AS ‘AN ACT CREATING THE CITY OF CADIZ,’ AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”

(Now Republic Act No. 9248)9. House Bill No. 2473, entitled:“AN ACT RENAMING THE BULACAN NATIONAL AGRICULTURAL STATE COLLEGE (BNASC) IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF SAN ILDEFONSO, PROVINCE OF BULACAN, AS THE BULACAN AGRICULTURAL

STATE COLLEGE (BASC)”(Now Republic Act No. 9249)

10. House Bill No. 5042, entitled:“AN ACT GRANTING THE RADIO PHILIPPINES NETWORK, INC., A FRANCHISE TO CONSTRUCT, INSTALL, ESTABLISH, OPERATE AND MAINTAIN RADIO AND TELEVISION BROADCASTING STATIONS IN THE PHILIPPINES”

(Now Republic Act No. 9250)11. House Bill No. 6010, entitled:“AN ACT RENAMING THE PADRE BURGOS-AGDANGAN- UNISAN-PITOGO-MACALELON-GENERAL LUNA- CATANAUAN-MULANAY-SAN FRANCISCO-SAN ANDRES-SAN NARCISO-BUENAVISTA NATIONAL ROAD IN BONDOC PENINSULA IN THE PROVINCE OF QUEZON AS THE MIGUEL SUAREZ HIGHWAY”

(Now Republic Act No. 9251)12. House Bill No. 1726, entitled:“AN ACT AMENDING SECTION 29 OF BATAS PAMBANSA BLG. 129, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS ‘JUDICIARY REORGANIZATION ACT OF 1980’”

(Now Republic Act No. 9252)13..House Bill No. 575, entitled:“AN ACT ESTABLISHING A NATIONAL SCIENCE HIGH SCHOOL IN BARANGAY JALAUD IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF BAROTAC NUEVO, PROVINCE OF ILOILO TO BE KNOWN AS JOSE MONFORT NATIONAL SCIENCE HIGH SCHOOL, APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”

(Now Republic Act No. 9253)14. House Bill No. 574, entitled:“AN ACT ESTABLISHING THE PURIFICATION DOLAR MONFORT NATIONAL SCIENCE HIGH SCHOOL IN BARANGAY P. D. MONFORT NORTH, MUNICIPALITY OF DUMANGAS, PROVINCE OF ILOILO, APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”

(Now Republic Act No. 9254)15. Consolidated House Bill No. 4437 and Senate Bill No. 2510, entitled:“AN ACT ALLOWING ILLEGITIMATE CHILDREN TO USE THE SURNAME OF THEIR FATHER, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE ARTICLE 176 OF EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 209, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE ‘FAMILY CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES’ ”

(Now Republic Act No. 9255)16. Consolidated Senate Bill No. 2636 and House Bill No. 6240, entitled:“AN ACT DECLARING AUGUST 21 OF EVERY YEAR AS NINOY AQUINO DAY, A SPECIAL NONWORKING HOLIDAY, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”

(Now Republic Act No. 9256)17. Consolidated Senate Bill No. 2395 and House Bill No. 5987, entitled:“AN ACT GRANTING ADDITIONAL BENEFITS AND PRIVILEGES TO SENIOR CITIZENS AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7432, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS 'AN ACT TO MAXIMIZE THE CONTRIBUTION OF SENIOR CITIZENS TO NATION BUILDING, GRANT BENEFITS AND SPECIAL PRIVILEGES AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES' ”

(Now Republic Act No. 9257)18. Consolidated House Bill No. 5253 and Senate Bill No. 2128, entitled:“AN ACT PROFESSIONALIZING THE PRACTICE OF GUIDANCE AND COUNSELING AND CREATING FOR THIS PURPOSE A PROFESSIONAL REGULATORY BOARD OF GUIDANCE AND COUNSELING, APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”

(Now Republic Act No. 9258)19. House Bill No. 4909, entitled:“AN ACT CREATING A BODY CORPORATE TO BE KNOWN AS THE LA UNION MEDICAL CENTER AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”(Now Republic Act No. 9259)20. House Bill No. 5567, entitled:“AN ACT CONVERTING THE STATE POLYTECHNIC COLLEGE OF PALAWAN IN THE PROVINCE OF PALAWAN INTO A STATE UNIVERSITY TO BE KNOWN AS THE WESTERN PHILIPPINES UNIVERSITY AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”

(Now Republic Act No. 9260)21. House Bill No. 4822, entitled:“AN ACT ESTABLISHING THE SOUTHERN LEYTE STATE UNIVERSITY BY INTEGRATING THE SOUTHERNLEYTE STATE COLLEGE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF SOGOD AND THE TOMAS OPPUS NORMAL COLLEGE IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF TOMAS OPPUS, BOTH LOCATED IN THE PROVINCE OF SOUTHERN LEYTE, APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”

(Now Republic Act No. 9261)22. Consolidated Senate Bill No. 2723 and House Bill Nos. 5516 and 6054“AN ACT DEFINING VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN AND THEIR CHILDREN, PROVIDING FOR PROTECTIVE

MEASURES FOR VICTIMS, PRESCRIBING PENALTIES THEREFOR, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”(Now Republic Act No. 9262)

23. Consolidated Senate Bill No. 2373 and House Bill No. 6557 “AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE PROFESSIONALIZATION OF THE BUREAU OF FIRE PROTECTION (BFP)AND THE BUREAU OF JAIL MANAGEMENT AND PENOLOGY (BJMP), AMENDING CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 6975, PROVIDING FUNDS THEREOF AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”

(Now Republic Act No. 9263)24. House Bill No. 6569, entitled: “AN ACT CONVERTING THE MUNICIPALITY OF SANTA ROSA IN THE PROVINCE OF LAGUNA INTO A COMPONENT CITY TO BE KNOWN AS THE CITY OF SANTA ROSA”(Now Republic Act No. 9264)25. House Bill No. 6562, entitled: “AN ACT CREATING THE MUNICIPALITY OF SAN ISIDRO IN THE PROVINCE OF DAVAO DEL NORTE”

(Now Republic Act No. 9265)26. Consolidated House Bill No. 5389 and Senate Bill No. 2710, entitled:“AN ACT PROVIDING FOR A MORE RESPONSIVE AND COMPREHENSIVE REGULATION FOR THE REGISTRATION, LICENSING AND PRACTICE OF ARCHITECTURE, REPEALING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 545, AS AMENDED, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS 'AN ACT TO REGULATE THE PRACTICE OF ARCHITECTURE IN THE PHILIPPINES,' AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”

(Now Republic Act No. 9266)27. Consolidated House Bill No. 4453 and Senate Bill No. 2095, entitled:“AN ACT PROVIDING THE REGULATORY FRAMEWORK FOR SECURITIZATION AND GRANTING FOR THE PURPOSE EXEMPTIONS FROM THE OPERATION OF CERTAIN LAWS”

(Now Republic Act No. 9267)28. Consolidated House Bill No. 6002 and Senate Bill No. 2578, entitled:“AN ACT TO REGULATE THE PRACTICE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE IN THE PHILIPPINES, REPEALING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 382 AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”(Now Republic Act No. 9268)29. House Bill No. 6656, entitled:“AN ACT CREATING THE SECOND LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT OF THE CITY OF ZAMBOANGA”

(Now Republic Act No. 9269)30. House Bill No. 6651, entitled:“AN ACT NAMING THE NATIONAL ROAD FROM THE INTERSECTION OF GOVERNOR CAMINS ROAD AND VETERANS AVENUE UP TO LICOMO IN THE CITY OF ZAMBOANGA TO MARIA CLARA L. LOBREGAT HIGHWAY”(Now Republic Act No. 9270)31. Consolidated Senate Bill No. 2749 and House Bill No. 6116, entitled:“AN ACT STRENGTHENING THE REGULATORY CAPACITY OF THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH IN QUARANTINE AND INTERNATIONAL HEALTH SURVEILLANCE, REPEALING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLICACT NO. 123 OF 1947, AS AMENDED”(Now Republic Act No. 9271)32. House Bill No. 4627, entitled:“AN ACT ESTABLISHING THE NUEVA VIZCAYA STATE UNIVERSITY IN THE PROVINCE OF NUEVA VIZCAYA BY INTEGRATING THE NUEVA VIZCAYA STATE INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF BAYOMBONG AND THE NUEVA VIZCAYA STATE POLYTECHNIC COLLEGE IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF BAMBANG, BOTH LOCATED IN THE PROVINCE OF NUEVA VIZCAYA, APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”

(Now Republic Act No. 9272)33. House Bill No. 5534, entitled:“AN ACT CONVERTING THE PANAY STATE POLYTECHNIC COLLEGE IN THE PROVINCE OF CAPIZ INTOA STATE UNIVERSITY TO BE KNOWN AS THE CAPIZ STATE UNIVERSITY (CAPSU) AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”

(Now Republic Act No. 9273)34. House Bill No. 3404, entitled:“AN ACT CREATING TWO (2) ADDITIONAL MUNICIPAL TRIAL COURT BRANCHES IN THE CITY OF ROXAS, PROVINCE OF CAPIZ, AMENDING FOR THAT PURPOSE SECTION 29 OF BATAS PAMBANSA BLG. 129, AS AMENDED, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE JUDICIARY REORGANIZATION ACT OF 1980”

(Now Republic Act No. 9274)35. Consolidated Senate Bill No. 2115 and House Bill No. 5398, entitled:“AN ACT PROVIDING FOR A COMPREHENSIVE WATER QUALITY MANAGEMENT AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”

(Now Republic Act No. 9275)36. House Bill No. 1905, entitled:

“AN ACT AMENDING SECTION 29 OF BATAS PAMBANSA BLG. 129, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE JUDICIARY REORGANIZATION ACT OF 1980”

(Now Republic Act No. 9276)37. House Bill No. 6058, entitled:“AN ACT GRANTING THE LEYTE STATE UNIVERSITY A FRANCHISE TO CONSTRUCT, INSTALL, ESTABLISH, OPERATE AND MAINTAIN FOR EDUCATIONAL AND NON-COMMERCIAL PURPOSES RADIO AND TELEVISION BROADCASTING STATIONS WITHIN THE CAMPUSES OF LEYTE STATE UNIVERSITY”

(Now Republic Act No. 9277) 38. House Bill No. 6060, entitled:“AN ACT GRANTING THE IVATAN FOUNDATION FOR DEVELOPMENT COMMUNICATIONS INCORPORATED AFRANCHISE TO CONSTRUCT, INSTALL, ESTABLISH, OPERATE AND MAINTAIN RADIO BROADCASTING STATIONS IN THE PROVINCE OF BATANES”

(Now Republic Act No. 9278)39. Consolidated House Bill No. 6654 and Senate Bill No. 2709, entitled:“AN ACT GRANTING ADDITIONAL COMPENSATION IN THE FORM OF SPECIAL ALLOWANCES FOR THE MEMBERS OF THE NATIONAL PROSECUTION SERVICE AND THE STATE COUNSELS IN THE DEPARTMENTOF JUSTICE, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”

(Now Republic Act No. 9279)40. Consolidated House Bill No. 5957 and Senate Bill No. 2684, entitled:“AN ACT REGULATING THE PRACTICE OF CUSTOMS BROKERS PROFESSION IN THE PHILIPPINES, CREATING FOR THE PURPOSE A PROFESSIONAL REGULATORY BOARD FOR CUSTOMS BROKERS, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”

(Now Republic Act No. 9280)41. Consolidated Senate Bill No. 2677 and House Bill No. 5817, entitled:“AN ACT TO STRENGTHEN AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES MODERNIZATION IN THE PHILIPPINES BY EXTENDING THE EFFECTIVITY OF TAX INCENTIVES AND ITS MANDATED FUNDING SUPPORT, AMENDING FOR THIS PURPOSE SECTIONS 109 AND 112 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8435”

(Now Republic Act No. 9281)42. Consolidated Senate Bill No. 2712 and House Bill No. 6673, entitled:“AN ACT EXPANDING THE JURISDICTION OF THE COURT OF TAX APPEALS (CTA), ELEVATING ITS RANK TO THE LEVEL OF A COLLEGIATE COURT WITH SPECIAL JURISDICTION AND ENLARGING ITS MEMBERSHIP, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE CERTAIN SECTIONS OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 1125, AS AMENDED, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE LAW CREATING THE COURT OF TAX APPEALS, AND FOR OTHERPURPOSES”

(Now Republic Act No. 9282)43. House Bill No. 4717, entitled:“AN ACT EXPANDING THE AREA OF OPERATION OF THE FRANCHISE OF EDISON C. ESPINOSA, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SECTION 1 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8101 AND CONVERTING THE GRANTEE INTO A CORPORATION”

(Now Republic Act No. 9283)44. House Bill No. 4784, entitled:“AN ACT AMENDING AND EXTENDING THE TERM OF THE FRANCHISE GRANTED TO CAGAYAN ELECTRICPOWER AND LIGHT CO., INC. UNDER REPUBLIC ACT NUMBERED THIRTY-TWO HUNDRED FORTY-SEVEN, AS AMENDED BY REPUBLIC ACT NUMBERED THIRTY-FIVE HUNDRED SEVENTY AND REPUBLIC ACT NUMBERED SIXTY HUNDRED TWENTY”

(Now Republic Act No. 9284)45. Consolidated Senate Bill No. 2671 and House Bill No. 5654, entitled: “AN ACT TO INSTITUTIONALIZE THE USE OF AN ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION SYSTEM IN THE PHILIPPINES AND TO ESTABLISH THE OFFICE FOR ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”

(Now Republic Act No. 9285)46. Consolidated Senate Bill No. 2727 and House Bill No. 4861, entitled:“AN ACT FURTHER AMENDING PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 198, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS 'THE PROVINCIAL WATER UTILITIES ACT OF 1973', AS AMENDED”

(Now Republic Act No. 9286)47. Consolidated Senate Bill No. 2547 and House Bill No. 6575, entitled:“AN ACT INCREASING THE PENALTIES FOR ILLEGAL NUMBERS GAMES, AMENDING CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 1602, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”

(Now Republic Act No. 9287)48. Consolidated Senate Bill No. 2707 and House Bill No. 6625, entitled:“AN ACT PROMULGATING A COMPREHENSIVE POLICY AND A NATIONAL SYSTEM FOR ENSURING NEWBORN SCREENING”

(Now Republic Act No. 9288)

49. Consolidated House Bill No. 6390 and Senate Bill No. 2744, entitled:“AN ACT CONVERTING THE MARIKINA INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY (MIST) INTO THE MARIKINA POLYTECHNIC COLLEGE (MPC), DEFINING ITS POWERS, FUNCTIONS AND DUTIES, APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”

(Now Republic Act No. 9289)50. Consolidated House Bill No. 5566 and Senate Bill No. 2716, entitled:“AN ACT PROMOTING THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE FOOTWEAR, LEATHER GOODS AND TANNERY INDUSTRIES, PROVIDING INCENTIVES THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”

(Now Republic Act No. 9290)51. House Bill No. 2650, entitled:“AN ACT UPGRADING THE ZAMBALES SUBDISTRICT ENGINEERING OFFICE INTO A REGULAR ENGINEERING OFFICE TO BE KNOWN AS THE ZAMBALES SECOND DISTRICT ENGINEERING OFFICE AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”

(Now Republic Act No. 9291)52. Consolidated House Bill No. 5224 and Senate Bill No. 2683, entitled:“AN ACT PROVIDING FOR A MORE RESPONSIVE AND COMPREHENSIVE REGULATION FOR THE REGISTRATION, LICENSING AND PRACTICE OF PROFESSIONAL ELECTRONICS ENGINEERS, ELECTRONICS ENGINEERS AND ELECTRONICS TECHNICIANS, REPEALING REPUBLIC ACT NO. 5734, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE 'ELECTRONICS AND COMMUNICATIONS ENGINEERING ACT OF THE PHILIPPINES,' AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”

(Now Republic Act No. 9292)53. Consolidated Senate Bill No. 2698 and House Bill No. 5411, entitled:“AN ACT AMENDING CERTAIN SECTIONS OF REPUBLIC ACT NUMBERED SEVENTY-EIGHT HUNDRED ANDTHIRTY-SIX (R. A. NO. 7836), OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE 'PHILIPPINE TEACHERS PROFESSIONALIZATION ACT OF 1994' ”

(Now Republic Act No. 9293)54. Consolidated Senate Bill No. 2747 and House Bill No. 5246, entitled:“AN ACT RESTORING THE TAX EXEMPTION OF OFFSHORE BANKING UNITS (OBUs) AND FOREIGN CURRENCY DEPOSITS UNITS (FCDUs), AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE SECTION 27 (D) (3) AND SECTION 28, PARAGRAPHS (A) (4) AND (A) (7) (b) OF THE NATIONAL INTERNAL REVENUE CODE, AS AMENDED”

(Now Republic Act No. 9294)55. Consolidated Senate Bill No. 2731 and House Bill No. 5563, entitled:“AN ACT PROMOTING THE DEVELOPMENT OF PHILIPPINE DOMESTIC SHIPPING, SHIPBUILDING, SHIP REPAIR AND SHIP BREAKING, ORDAINING REFORMS IN GOVERNMENT POLICIES TOWARDS SHIPPING IN THE PHILIPPINES, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”

(Now Republic Act No. 9295)56. Consolidated Senate Bill No. 2691 and House Bill No. 6587, entitled:“AN ACT STRENGTHENING THE MEAT INSPECTION SYSTEM IN THE COUNTRY, ORDAINING FOR THIS PURPOSE A 'MEAT INSPECTION CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES' AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”

(Now Republic Act No. 9296)57. Consolidated Senate Bill No. 2685 and House Bill No. 46, entitled:“AN ACT REGULATING THE PRACTICE OF CHEMICAL ENGINEERING AND REPEALING FOR THIS PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NUMBERED THREE HUNDRED AND EIGHTEEN (R. A. No. 318), otherwise known as 'the chemical engineering law' ”

(Now Republic Act No. 9297)58. Consolidated Senate Bill No. 2748 and House Bill No. 6678, entitled:“AN ACT REGULATING THE PRACTICE OF ACCOUNTANCY IN THE PHILIPPINES, REPEALING FOR THEPURPOSE PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 692, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE REVISED ACCOUNTANCY LAW,APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”

(Now Republic Act No. 9298)59. Consolidated House Joint Resolution No. 33 and Senate Joint Resolution No. 22, entitled:“JOINT RESOLUTION EQUALIZING THE BASE PAY AND AUTHORIZING THE SALARY UPGRADING OF THE UNIFORMED PERSONNEL OF THE BUREAU OF FIRE PROTECTION (BFP) AND THE BUREAU OF JAIL MANAGEMENT AND PENOLOGY (BJMP) IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE BASE PAY OF THEIR COUNTERPARTS IN THE PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE (PNP), AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”

(Now Joint Resolution No. 1)TO THE ARCHIVESADDITIONAL REFERENCE OF BUSINESSHouse Resolution No.1488, entitled:

“RESOLUTION EXPRESSING THE DEEP APPRECIATION OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES FOR THE

INSPIRING AND ENLIGHTENED NATIONAL SPIRITUAL LEADERSHIP PROVIDED BY THE IGLESIA NI CRISTO UNDER ITS EXECUTIVE MINISTER, KAPATID ERAÑO G. MANALO, AND CONVEYING THE WARMFELICITATIONS OF THE HOUSE ON THE OCASSION OF THE INC CELEBRATION OF ITS NINETIETH (90TH) ANNIVERSARY ON JULY 27, 2004”By Representatives De Venecia, Lopez (J.), Lapus and LacsonTO THE COMMITTEE ON RULESconsideraTION OF HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 1488

On motion of Rep. Gonzales, there being no objection, the Body considered House Resolution No. 1488 as reported out by the Committee on Rules.

Upon direction of the Chair, the Secretary General read the title of the Resolution,towit:"RESOLUTION EXPRESSING THE DEEP APPRECIATION OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES FOR THEINSPIRING AND ENLIGHTENED NATIONAL SPIRITUAL LEADERSHIP PROVIDED BY THE IGLESIA NI CRISTO UNDER ITS EXECUTIVE MINISTER, KAPATID ERAÑO G. MANALO, AND CONVEYING THE WARMFELICITATIONS OF THE HOUSE ON THE OCCASION OF THE INC CELEBRATION OF ITS NINETIETH (90TH) ANNIVERSARY ON JULY 27, 2004."adoption of house resolution no. 1488On motion of Rep. Gonzales, there being no objection, the Body adopted House Resolution No. 1488.SUSPENSION OF SESSION

On motion of Rep. Gonzales, the Chair suspended the session at 10:40 a.m.RESUMPTION OF SESSIONAt 10:43 a.m., the session was resumed.APPROVAL OF THE BICAMERAL CONFERENCE COMMITTEE REPORT ON THE PHILIPPINE DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION (PDIC) BILL, as amendedOn motion of Rep. Gonzales, there being no objection, the Chair called for a viva voce vote on the Bicameral Conference Committee Report on the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC) Bill, as amended concurrently by both Houses of Congress.

With majority of the Members voting in the affirmative, the Body approved the amended Bicameral Conference Committee Report on the PDIC Bill.

Speaker De Venecia subsequently congratulated the Members for their participation inthe historic bill which was rescued from oblivion in the last few days. He especially thanked Reps. Jesli A. Lapus, Jose Carlos V. Lacson, and Committee on Banks and Financial Intermediaries Chairman Jaime C. Lopez for their last-minute initiative together with Senator Sergio R. Osmena III and Senate President Franklin Drilon. He explained that this had enabled both Houses to approve the Bill that will benefit 26 million depositors, the PDIC itself, the commercial banking system which would experience a larger flow of savings deposits in view of the increase in the insurance coverage of deposits to P250,000, and the economy as a whole which would now be able to mobilize critical capital resources instead of depending constantly on external borrowings to meet local capital requirements.

CONSIDERATION OF HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 1484


Upon direction of the Chair, the Secretary General read the title of the Resolution,to wit:

"RESOLUTION EXPRESSING THE PROFOUND GRATITUDE OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES FOR THE EXEMPLARY PERFORMANCE AND COOPERATION DEMONSTRATED BY THE HOUSE LEADERSHIP, THE MEMBERS OF THE HOUSE MAJORITY AND MINORITY PARTIES, THE CHAIRPERSONS AND MEMBERS OF

THE STANDING AND SPECIAL COMMITTEES, THE CONGRESSIONAL MEDIA, THE SECRETARIAT PERSONNEL, THE CONGRESSIONAL STAFF, THE CONCERNED CITIZENS AND ALL THOSE WHO HAVE CONTRIBUTED TO THE OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES."REMARKS OF THE SPEAKER

The Speaker pointed out that House Resolution No. 1484 was a resolution commending the Majority and Minority in the House, the Secretary General and Secretariat, the special and regular committees and their chairmen and vice-chairmen, and the leadersof civil society who had participated in the public hearings and contributed to the approval of quality pieces of legislation.ADOPTION OF HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 1484

On motion of Rep. Gonzales, there being no objection, the Body adopted House Resolution No. 1484.CONSIDERATION OF HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 1485


Upon direction of the Chair, the Secretary General read the title of the Resolution,to wit:"RESOLUTION DECLARING THE JOURNAL OF THE SESSIONS OF MAY 24, JUNE 10 AND JUNE 11, 2004 AS HAVING BEEN READ AND APPROVED."ADOPTION OF HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 1485

On motion of Rep. Gonzales, there being no objection, the Body adopted House Resolution No. 1485.SUSPENSION OF SESSION

At 10:48 a.m., the Chair suspended the session upon Rep. Gonzales' motion.RESUMPTION OF SESSION

At 11:42 a.m., the session was resumed.REMARKS OF REP. GONZALES

Whereupon, Rep. Gonzalez informed the Members that they were about to consider a resolution affecting the person of the Speaker of the House. Pursuant to parliamentary practice, he then requested Rep. Agapito A. Aquino to ascend the rostrum and preside over the session.


On motion of Rep. Gonzales, the session was suspended at 11:43 a.m.RESUMPTION OF SESSION

At 11:44 a.m., the session was resumed with Rep. Aquino (A.) presiding.

REMARKS OF THE CHAIR

Thereafter, Rep. Aquino (A.) remarked that the legislative statistics speak for the accomplishments of the House of Representatives under the Twelfth Congress. He disclosed that the Chamber had passed 6,720 bills out of which 139 had been enacted into law. He noted that they had a productive Congress not only because of the number of bills and resolutions filed but because of the prevailing internal and external conditions at the time the measures were passed. He recalled that the Body had labored and struggled just to have a meeting of the minds and find a sensible legislative compromise. This, he attributed to each and every Member of the House, especially to their leader, Speaker De Venecia.

The Chair stressed that at no point in history was the position of the Speaker

envied by any Member because of the harsh macroeconomic conditions and highly divided political spectrum that made lawmaking extremely arduous and taxing. He however pointed out that under the leadership of Speaker De Venecia, differences were minimized and partisan politics were tempered to allow the Chamber to churn outlaws that oftentimes involved controversial and highly divisive recommendations.

He said that he need not expound on the major bills that they had enacted into law, which included the laws on Anti-Money Laundering, Dangerous Drugs, Special Purpose Asset Vehicle and Electronic Procurement. Even as he cannot recall anymore the number of times when tempers flared in the halls of the House, he underscored that reason and the call of duty in the end prevailed because of the firm and pacifist leadership of Speaker De Venecia. He recounted that the Speaker made many promises to the Members and was able to deliver 95% of these promises while the five percent was not granted due to budgetary or political constraints. He admitted to the fact that the Members from the Minority naturally emphasized the five percent more than the 95% and had teased the Speaker many times as "Joe De Bola" or "Joe Palabok" but in secret, they admired him.In applauding Speaker De Venecia, the Chair concluded that the reasons for the Speaker's achievements were his intrinsic humility, his love of country, and his love for his wife Gina, who inspires him no end.CONSIDERATION OF HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 1486

Thereafter, on motion of Rep. Gonzales, there being no objection, the Body considered House Resolution No. 1486.Upon direction of the Chair, the Secretary General read the title of the measure, towit:"RESOLUTION COMMENDING THE HONORABLE SPEAKER JOSE DE VENECIA JR. FOR HIS SUCCESSFUL AND STERLING STEWARDSHIP OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES DURING THE TWELFTH CONGRESS."

On further motion of Rep. Gonzales, the Chair recognized Rep. Clavel A. Martinez to sponsor the measure.SPONSORSHIP REMARKS OF REP. MARTINEZRep. Martinez remarked that whatever she will say about Speaker De Venecia would be an understatement compared to what the Chair had earlier remarked. In support of House Resolution No. 1486, she manifested that she was adopting the statements of the Chair with reference to the Speaker.On motion of Rep. Gonzales, the Chair recognized Rep. Prospero C. Nograles for his sponsorship remarks.sponsorship remarksof rep. nogralesAs one of the Representatives from Mindanao, Rep. Nograles said that he has the distinct honor and privilege to sponsor a resolution commending the sterling leadership of the Speaker of the House in the Twelfth Congress. He added that it is an accolade and an honor well-deserved by Speaker De Venecia.Whereupon, Rep. Nograles recalled that when Speaker De Venecia lost in the presidential elections by a huge margin six years ago, many of his political criticsand even some of his friends were quick to write his political obituary. He disclosed that no one contemplated that his political resurrection would come so soon, at least not in the actual terms that it happened in July 2001.Rep. Nograles thereafter disclosed that Speaker De Venecia was elected Speaker of the House for the third time and was voted by his peers with, perhaps, the largest majority in the history of Philippine Congress. He said that he witnessed the resurrection of Speaker De Venecia’s rainbow coalition which was renamed Sunshine Coalition, where he displayed his timeless talent of building multi-party coalitionsin support of reform-driven legislative programs.Rep. Nograles stated that the Twelfth Congress had passed many laws with the supportof the Majority and the Minority and that the Members will be remembered until the Twelfth Congress has become history. He then cited the laws passed by the Twelfth Congress, to wit: the toughest Anti-Drug Act in Asia; enshrined transparency in government transactions with the Procurement Reform Act; the Special Purpose Asset

Vehicle Act; the Securitization Act; the Anti-Money Laundering Act; the Magna Carta for Micro-Enterprises; the Rental Reform Act; and the National Government Center Housing and Land Utilization Act.Rep. Nograles said that he can continue to speak more of the Speaker's legislations and accomplishments, but the point is, the House has performed creditably in initiating and crafting reform legislations under his leadership. Indeed, he said that the House had fought hard for reforms in the financial, political, and judicialsystems and Speaker De Venecia’s leadership had received just as much global respectamong parliamentarians, not only in South East Asia, but also in the entire Asia.Whereupon, Rep. Nograles pointed out that in August 2003, Speaker De Venecia was elected president of the Fourth General Assembly of the Association of Asian Parliamentarians for Peace, for which he brought honor and prestige to Congress and to the country as well. He further stated that Speaker De Venecia was also the chairman of a standing committee of 77 political parties in Asia under the International Conference of Asian Political Parties which he initiated in Manila in October 2001.

Rep. Nograles averred that House Resolution No. 1486, honoring the Speaker, is a testimony not only of his excellent record, but also of the conduct of the entire Twelfth Congress of the House of Representatives. He said that he speaks without fear of contradiction that the Members are proud to honor Speaker De Venecia and to extend to him their collective gratitude for a job well done.At this juncture, Rep. Gonzales recognized Rep. Teodoro L. Locsin Jr. to deliver hissponsorship remarks.SPONSORSHIP REMARKSOF REP. LOCSIN (T.)Upon recognition by the Chair, Rep. Locsin said that he was counseled by Rep. Gonzales not to deliver a turno en contra which he will not do. He noted that everything that has been said was in praise of the Speaker. He however said that he can only agree with and add that these are the reasons why the man has been Speaker of the House for three times or more often than anybody else outside the old Republic. He expressed belief that there is very little doubt that Speaker De Venecia will be the Speaker of the Thirteenth Congress. He pointed out that this doubt is further resolved by the fact that the only man who could have challenged him and had his stature and qualities is a man who cannot vie for Speaker in the next Congress. He said he was referring to Majority Leader Neptali M. Gonzales II.Whereupon, Rep. Locsin sought permission to speak of Boyet Gonzales in his first name, for Rep. Gonzales had made sure that every important piece of legislation fromthe House, no matter how contentious it was at the start, would truly reflect the sentiments of both the Majority and the Minority members. Despite the Majority having the numbers, he pointed out that Rep. Gonzales would not allow any measure tobe railroaded by assuring Malacañang that the measure that Congress would pass had the full conformity of the House because he made sure that the laws that came from the House were truly from its heart and mind. He said that he is sure that Speaker De Venecia will be the next Speaker of the Thirteenth Congress but no more so than because the man who could have stood up to him and solicited all the Members' sympathy, attention and respect must step down to become the mayor of Mandaluyong City. In closing, Rep. Locsin thereafter expressed his appreciation for Speaker De Venecia’s patience and tolerance.REMARKS OF REP. GONZALESUpon recognition by the Chair, Rep. Gonzales said that he was speechless. He expressed his eternal gratitude to Rep. Locsin for his kind words.

At this juncture, the Chair recognized Rep. Roque R. Ablan Jr. for his remarks.

PROPOSED AMENDMENT OF REP. ABLAN

At the outset, Rep. Roque R. Ablan Jr. proposed to amend House Resolution No. 1486 by including the name of Rep. Gonzales therein.Whereupon, Rep. Ablan pointed out that Rep. Gonzales is a pillar of the House’s legislative programs that is why Speaker De Venecia has also become successful. He then reiterated his proposal to include the name of Rep. Gonzales in the Resolution.

REMARKS oF THE CHAIRThe Chair suggested that the phrase "with the able assistance of Majority Leader Gonzales” be added.

SPONSORSHIP REMARKS OF REP. ABLANRep. Ablan, in prefacing his speech, said that he will not sit down without praisingthe best Speaker that he had ever seen in Congress. He disclosed that for the past years that he had been elected in Congress, he has yet to see another Speaker who ismore powerful and accommodating than Speaker De Venecia. He thanked the Members for the opportunity to express his thanks to the Speaker whom he had served well. He however reiterated his proposal to include Rep. Gonzales in the Resolution.MANIFESTATION OF REP. DEL MAR

Upon recognition by the Chair, Rep. Raul V. Del Mar manifested his conformity to theamendment introduced by Rep. Ablan but added that he would like the Chair to determine whether it is more appropriate to introduce another resolution after the resolution for the Speaker.SPONSORSHIP REMARKSOF REP. DEL MARRep. Del Mar said that he wished to co-sponsor the Resolution for the Speaker. He pointed out that many things have been said for and against the Speaker, and the common perception is that he has always taken the easy path or the safe side to the solution of the issue, not wanting to catch the ire of any group and put his speakership at risk. He however recalled that one occasion when he was proud of the Speaker for having taken a position and placing his speakership on the line. In doing so, he said that the Speaker had outlasted the turning point of his career which had transformed him from a politician to a true statesman. He recalled the time when the Speaker had stood firm and exercised his leadership when he adopted and supported the decision of the Supreme Court in declaring the second impeachment complaint against Chief Justice Hilario Davide unconstitutional, thus preventing theelevation of the complaint to the Senate.

QUERY OF THE CHAIR

The Chair inquired whether Rep. Del Mar prefers to accept the amendment or plans to introduce another resolution for the Majority Leader. He said that the amendment will remain, if he accepts it.

Rep. Del Mar replied that he will leave it to the Sponsor to decide on the matter. He said that he made the suggestion so that the Sponsor can determine which would bemore appropriate.

The Chair said that the Body can listen to the amendment later on during the period of amendments. Meanwhile, he inquired whether there was any other Member who will deliver his/her sponsorship speech.

Whereupon, on motion of Rep. Gonzales, the Chair recognized Reps. Florencio B. Abad and Juan Miguel F. Zubiri to deliver their sponsorship remarks, respectively.

SPONSORSHIP REMARKS OF REP. ABAD

Rep. Abad stated, on behalf of the Liberal Party, that they support the Resolution commending the honorable Speaker. He proposed to amend the Resolution by adding the phrase "patient and tolerant stewardship of this Chamber" to the words "able" and "firm".

Rep. Abad again expressed his appreciation to the Speaker for all the sacrifices andunderstanding that he had shown the Members. He said that the Members would perhaps agree that this is not a very easy Chamber to manage and for all these, they have come out well.

Thereupon, the Chair recognized Rep. Zubiri for his sponsorship remarks.

SPONSORSHIP REMARKS OF REP. ZUBIRI

Initially, Rep. Zubiri said that he would like to give a short manifestation and notto amend the Resolution.

Rep. Zubiri thereafter commended Speaker De Venecia as the only one who can endure insults from both sides and still emerge a statesman.

He expressed belief that the Members should continue his style of leadership considering that he was the only one who stuck his neck out to make fundamental changes in the political system, especially in the Constitution.

Rep. Zubiri informed the Body that on that day, he had come from the Senate to try to lobby for his bills. Unfortunately, he said, the Senate met for only five minutes and had adjourned. He lamented the fact that their colleagues and friends inthe Senate would look so low at the local bills from the House. He stated that the Senators and the Members are colleagues and he does not want to start another hate campaign that had been commenced in the past. In order for them to part as friends, he said that all he can say for himself is "better luck next time.” He expressed belief that perhaps both the Senators and the Members can help each other in the next Congress.Rep. Zubiri however said that he cannot hide his disgust and disappointment because these local bills were intended to benefit the national high schools and the secondary national roads only to be put aside for other personal or national interests.Rep. Zubiri expressed hope that with the help of the next Speaker in the Thirteenth Congress, these fundamental changes can be made. He proposed that future legislators can craft a law giving sole authority to the House of Representatives toapprove local bills so that it will not pass through the Senate anymore.

Rep. Zubiri agreed with the proposal for a unicameral system because the present system is so outdated. He cited for instance the scenario of the previous elections wherein electoral returns have to be delivered with a convoy of a small army to Congress.

Rep. Zubiri then pointed to the set up in the Session Hall where the ballot boxes were like part of the "chain gang.” He expressed embarrassment over the backward canvassing. He cited for instance that India, which has a population of 1.1 billion people, had put the country to shame because it had declared a change of government in only a week’s time. He pointed out that it may be high time that the Members change the system to a unicameral form of government wherein all that is needed is to elect a representative and in a matter of three days, the Prime Minister or the leader of the nation will be known.Rep. Zubiri opined that the only person who can do that is Speaker Jose De Venecia, the father of the future amendments to the Constitution.

As parting words to their colleagues in the Senate, Rep. Zubiri stated that no matter how high their stature may be in national politics and in the political arena, they still come from a lowly barangay. He then expressed hope that in the next Congress, Senators will remember that all politics is local.

At this juncture, the Chair recognized Rep. Gonzales for his remarks.

REMARKS OF REP. GONZALES (N.)

Noting the suggestion to amend House Resolution No. 1486, Rep. Gonzales appealed to the Members to leave things as they are. Anyway, he said that the kind words of Reps. Locsin and Ablan were appreciated, and were already part of the records of theHouse and more importantly, will forever be etched in his heart.

REMARKS OF REP. ABLAN

Upon recognition by the Chair, and after listening to the remarks of Rep. Gonzales, Rep. Ablan withdrew his proposed amendment and instead stated that he will file another resolution expressing his and Rep. Locsin's sentiments in praise of Rep. Gonzales. He said that he was doing this to give importance to Speaker De Venecia.

REMARKS OF REP. DEL MAR

Upon recognition by the Chair, Rep. Del Mar likewise withdrew his support for Rep. Ablan's amendment with the understanding that an appropriate resolution will be introduced after the instant Resolution had been adopted by the Body.

Thereupon, the Chair recognized Rep. Libanan.

MANIFESTATION OF REP. LIBANAN

In view of the withdrawal of Reps. Ablan's and Del Mar's proposals, Rep. Libanan manifested his intent to present another resolution of commendation for Rep. Gonzales.

The Chair however stated that as a matter of procedure, the Body would have to reopen the consideration of the Resolution first, having approved the amendment. He suggested that the Majority Leader reconsider the approval of the amendment.

Rep. Gonzales however clarified that there was no amendment to the Resolution.

ADOPTION OF HOUSERESOLUTION NO. 1486

Considering that there was no other Member who wished to deliver a sponsorship speech on the measure, on motion of Rep. Gonzales, there being no objection, the Body unanimously adopted House Resolution No. 1486.

MANIFESTATION OF REP. LIBANAN

Upon recognition by the Chair, Rep. Marcelino C. Libanan manifested his intent to file a resolution commending Rep. Gonzales for his very able, hardworking, compassionate and competent leadership in the Chamber. It is unfortunate, he said, that Rep. Gonzales had reached the end of his third term and will hence be the mayorof Mandaluyong. He expressed hope that Rep. Gonzales could return to Congress again and show his leadership skills once more.

The Chair assumed that the wording of the resolution had been drafted by Rep. Ablan who will be authorized to finalize the style of the resolution with Rep. Libanan.

REMARKs OF REP. DEL MAR

Upon recognition by the Chair, Rep. Del Mar supported the efforts of Reps. Libanan and Ablan in proposing a resolution commending Rep. Gonzales for his able leadershipand competence in instilling orderly and productive proceedings in the House.

REMARKs OF REP. ABAD

Upon recognition by the Chair, Rep. Abad expressed, on behalf of the Liberal Party, support for the resolution as an expression of his sincere thanks and commendation for the excellent job performed by Rep. Gonzales. He expressed belief that everybodywill concede that the able and successful stewardship of the Speaker would not have been possible without the sacrifices, patience and hard work of Rep. Gonzales. WhileRep. Gonzales is indeed a big loss for the House, he said that he is a big gain for Mandaluyong City.REMARKs OF REP. ROSALES

Upon recognition by the Chair, Rep. Loretta Ann P. Rosales commended Rep. Gonzales on behalf of the Party List Members, for his able and competent leadership in the

Twelfth Congress. She stressed that many of the Party-List Members had learned a lotfrom Rep. Gonzales, enjoyed working with him and had told him with enough candor that he always made it a point to listen to their views. She added that she was ableto file around 17 bills of national importance which had reached Third Reading stagewith the help and able leadership of Rep. Gonzales. Unfortunately, she lamented thatthe Senate had failed to act on said measures.

Thereupon, the Chair recognized Rep. Jose G. Solis.

REMARKs OF REP. SOLIS

Rep. Solis expressed his support for the Resolution commending the Speaker and the Majority Leader and stated that he would like to add other personalities of the House who need to be commended because he believes that without them, the success ofthe House would not have been possible. He pointed out that he was referring to the commendation for Deputy Speakers Raul M. Gonzalez, Gerry A. Salapuddin and Emilio R.Espinosa Jr. MOTION OF REP. VILLANUEVA

Upon recognition by the Chair, Rep. Emmanuel Joel J. Villanueva maintained that the Body would have to dispose of the resolution sponsored by Rep. Libanan first. Beforeadopting said resolution, he then moved that all the speeches made in support of theresolution be made part of the text thereof commending Rep. Gonzales. There being noobjection, the Body approved his motion.

PARLIAMENTARY INQUIRY OF REP. VILLANUEVA

At this juncture, Rep. Villanueva inquired on the ruling of the Chair on his proposed resolution to commend Deputy Speakers Gonzalez, Salappudin and Espinosa.


On motion of Rep. Villanueva, the session was suspended at 12:18 p.m.



REMARKs OF THE CHAIR

Upon resumption of session, the Chair responded that the Body will consider Rep. Solis' recommendation when the Speaker arrives in the Chamber.

The Chair then requested all women Members of the House to escort Speaker De Veneciato the Session Hall to address the Body. PARLIAMENTARY INQUIRY OF REP. ROSALES

Upon recognition by the Chair, Rep. Rosales inquired on the nature of the tradition wherein the ladies of the House escort the Speaker.

The Chair replied that this is based on mere preference and that he himself prefers being escorted by women rather than male Members.

Rep. Rosales commented that while this is part of tradition, it raises her curiosityas to why women have to escort men.

The Chair replied that this somehow beautifies the Speaker with the lady Members.

Rep. Rosales countered that this makes it all the more questionable.

REMARKs OF REP. ABAD

In response to Rep. Rosales' query, Rep. Abad, upon recognition by the Chair, opinedthat to be politically correct, Members of all sexual orientations should be included.

Rep. Rosales added that the gays should also be included.


At 12:22 p.m., Rep. Aquino (A.) motu proprio suspended the session.


At 12:24 p.m., the session was resumed with Speaker De Venecia presiding.REMARKS OF SPEAKER DE VENECIA

Speaker De Venecia first thanked the ladies of the House for escorting him to the rostrum, as well as Rep. Aquino (A.) for his brilliant, capable and outstanding leadership of the Minority over the years. He likewise thanked Majority Leader Neptali Gonzales who, he said, is one of the greatest parliamentarians the House hasever produced, and Deputy Speakers Gonzalez, Espinosa and Salapuddin, for their experience, great sense of responsibility and brilliant stewardship of the House on many occasions. He also thanked the chairmen and vice chairmen of the regular and special committees; the Party-List organizations who were ably represented in the House; and the leaders of the political parties who, in a parliamentary system, would be the parliamentary leaders of the House.

Speaker De Venecia further expressed gratitude to the Secretary General and the Sergeant-at-Arms and the bureaucracy for their dedicated and outstanding work, and everyone, including the members of the media, for their support, encouragement and enlightened criticism from time to time. He then thanked the Filipino people for having sent him and the Members from their respective constituencies to the House ofRepresentatives.

Thereupon, he underscored that the Senate had just adjourned. He added that he had along speech or report to the Filipino people but he will just read one page and simply highlight the achievements of the House and its Members for the country and the people.

He recalled that three years ago, the Members of the House inaugurated the Twelfth Congress and pledged to help get the nation moving again to lift the pall of gloom and doom that oppressed the national life, and to craft a strategy to fight off the twin scourge of terrorism and poverty. They promised, he said, a House that was longin vision, achievement and decisive action to make a difference in the people's lives.

As the Twelfth Congress closes on that day, he stressed that they are proud of what they had achieved and prouder still that despite some stormy passages and threats todemocracy, they had staunchly defended democracy and made it stronger and remarkablymore stable. As the Twelfth Congress moves towards completing its sacred duty of proclaiming the president-elect and the vice-president-elect, he said that its confidence is undiminished that at noon of June 30, the nation shall witness its next President take the solemn oath of office in this sacred and highest ritual of democratic tradition.

The Speaker emphasized that from where they stand, they believe that there is no fear of the future, no fear of a constitutional crisis or a vacuum of power. Neitheris there fear, he said, that democracy as they know it might be undone by dark and sinister conspiracies, for the people will no longer put up with political intriguesand instead demand that political leaders and policy makers formulate strategy to propel the nation to where it belongs--among the tigers of Southeast Asia --able to sustain its economic development.

He said that in the House, the Members had approved a total of 1,136 bills of great national significance, including local bills that were urgent and important to the nation. He added that perhaps, the Senate does not consider as important a bill thatattempts to create a national high school in a barangay but to the people of said barangay, such a bill is of great transcendental importance because the people, students and pupils in such barangay need not trek three kilometers in rain or shineto go to school. Yet, he lamented that only a hundred of such bills had been approved by the Senate.

Whereupon, Speaker De Venecia underscored the serious need to discuss constitutionalreform. He recalled that as previously mentioned by Rep. Zubiri, there is an urgent need to change the structure of government and for the Members to no longer be nonchalant and treat this matter as if it were an ordinary normal conventional problem when this nation is fighting for its life because of the failure of political leaders to change the form of government that the Members of the House hadoverwhelmingly approved by more than 93% the previous year, which is, to create a unicameral system, a parliamentary system, a federal system which has long been awaited by the people in the provinces, cities and barangays in the distant islands of Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. With some of the most important bills ever crafted in the history of the House like the toughest and strongest Anti-Drug Law in Asia, he said that no wonder, President Macapagal-Arroyo has been successful in destroyingand breaking the drug cartels by smashing factories that manufacture shabu during the last six months and arresting many of the biggest drug lords in Southeast Asia. He then pointed out that one of the proudest moments of the Members was the craftingof the 747 economic action plan which stands for seven percent Gross Domestic Product growth for seven years with the strategy that at the end of the seventh year, the poor people of the Philippines will start to join the ranks of the Filipino middle class. He then informed the Members, the nation at large and their allies, that said historic economic initiative had been adopted by the Cabinet members and by the President of the Philippines as their own and have proceeded to use it as the blueprint for growth during the last three years.

Moreover, Speaker De Venecia pointed out that one of the keys to judicial reform is the Alternative Dispute Resolution Act, which had been enacted into law, sponsored by Rep. Libanan and by the other leaders. Said law, he pointed out, seeks to reduce approximately a million backlog court cases because half a million of these cases can be resolved through mediation and arbitration. He said that said law was the product of parliamentary initiative initiated by the House supported by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court and the Secretary of Justice. He added that for the first time in 50 years, House leaders have also visited the White House in the company of President Macapagal-Arroyo upon the invitation of the President of the United States of America, President George W. Bush, who did honor to the House by likewise accepting the invitation he extended to him verbally in the White House. Hethen said that President Bush had addressed the joint Houses of Congress in the Batasan Building and had announced a series of economic benefit programs for the country and for the Filipino people, more particularly the people of Mindanao.

Furthermore, Speaker De Venecia stated that the House had gained incredible mileage and favorable publicity when all the 37 Congresses and Parliaments in Asia elected him as president of the Association of Asian Parliaments for Peace, a term that willexpire in October 2004. As he turns over the presidency of said association to Pakistan, he stressed that Pakistan had been chosen as the venue for the next meeting of the Parliaments of Asia because they want to strengthen President Mubarakin his desire to bring about political and constitutional transition in Pakistan as it moves towards parliamentary democracy. He pointed out that nations are going intowar because of the weapons of mass destruction (WMD) in Iraq and there is a threat of crisis in the Korean Peninsula because of WMD in North Korea. Considering that Pakistan has also hundreds of WMD and in case terrorists would succeed in taking over the US leadership, he warned that there would really be a first class problem in the Asian region. It was for this reason, he said, that the Association had chosen Pakistan as the next site of the meeting so that they can contribute to the political transition in the said country.

At this point, Speaker De Venecia disclosed that they also had the privilege of bringing together for the first time in the history of Asia and the world a meeting of all the political ruling parties, including the Opposition which they thought would be impossible to accomplish. He added that he was elected chairman of the standing committees of all the 77 ruling and opposition parties in Asia. He averred that the time has come for the Members to reach out once again to all the political parties in the country as they had done for three years, to see how they can unite and heed the nation’s call. Upon the completion of the canvassing of the COCs for President and Vice-President, he urged the Members, together with the elected leaders, to move expeditiously towards healing the wounds of political warfare at the soonest possible opportunity.

As regards the Muslims and Christians in the South, Speaker De Venecia disclosed that the Body had initiated for the first time the beginning of a global Christian-Muslim Coalition in order to address the hundred years of ethnic conflicts, geo-political conflicts and religious conflicts since the days of the crusades which hadthreatened Mindanao, the Aceh in Indonesia, Kashmir in Pakistan, the Central Asian Republic, Jerusalem and Palestine, Sudan and Nigeria. He added that these conflicts have now exploded in the midst of the 21st century, creating forces of terror that the country had never seen before, and which will continue to bedevil the House and the next House as they try to see how the Members can mobilize an Anti-Terrorism Bill to protect the nation and its children.

At this point, Speaker De Venecia thanked the hardworking leaders of the Sunshine Coalition or the Rainbow Coalition III, Deputy Speakers Raul M. Gonzalez, Emilio R. Espinosa Jr. and Gerry A. Salapuddin, Majority Leader Neptali M. Gonzales II and theable chairmen of the 52 standing committees and 13 special committees for their dedication and efficiency. Thereafter, he thanked the leaders of the Opposition, Minority Leader Carlos M. Padilla, Assistant Minority Floor Leader Agapito S. Aquinoas well as all the members of the Party-List groups. Likewise, he thanked all his colleagues and friends for electing him as Speaker of the House because the same would not have been possible without their support.

In looking ahead to other goals that the House must continue to seek, Speaker De Venecia pointed out that the most urgent among them is the completion of the peace process between the Muslim separatists of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and the Communist Party of the Philippines. He said that he had gone to Norway to meet with its Prime Minister and that their talks will resume a couple of weeks from now in Oslo. He added that he had also talked with the Prime Minister of Malaysia, MahathirMohammad and the head of the Libyan government, Col. Khadaffy and that both them have agreed to resume talks in Malaysia in the next few weeks.

Moreover, Speaker De Venecia underscored that the urgent challenge that the House isfaced with is the inevitable Charter reform. He said that there is no turning back from this challenge because even President Macapagal-Arroyo, together with other religious and business sectors and all the major sectors of society such as mayors, governors and barangay leaders, are in favor of Constitutional change. In short, he said that the Members have turned public opinion to their side on the issue of constitutional reform. He then reiterated that the Body is seeking a unicameral-parliamentary-federal form of government at the earliest possible opportunity and perhaps, the most pressing concern is to bring to a manageable level the government's huge budget deficit and to balance and tame the foreign exchange crisisbrought about by the burgeoning foreign debt. Whereupon, he underscored that the twocrises that the House is currently facing in the coming weeks when the new Congress opens are: the budget deficit and the foreign exchange crisis. He stated that these are the twin problems that the Members must face with single-minded concentration because one of their tasks is to initiate the moral equivalent of war and to tame them, for this is at the core of the government’s battle against poverty.

In concluding his speech, Speaker De Venecia urged the Members to join hands and setaside the passion of partisanship in fighting this war and in bringing about much-needed reforms. Hand in hand as the House canvasses the presidential and vice-

presidential elections, he said that on the eve of the proclamation of the winners, the Members will continue to do their duty to their country and to the people. He then expressed hope that the next president of the Republic, after proclamation, with the support of the Members, will move rapidly to heal and unite the nation and create the structure for a government of national unity to bring together the best and the brightest elements from the political parties and party-list groups and the leaders of society to defeat these most difficult challenges.

INSERTION INTO THE RECORD OF REP. VILLARAMA'S VALEDICTORY SPEECHWhereupon, on motion of Rep. Gonzales, there being no objection, the Body inserted into the Record the valedictory speech of Rep. Wilfrido B. Villarama.ADJOURNMENT OF SESSION At this point, on motion of Rep. Gonzales, there being no objection, the Chair declared the session adjourned.

It was 12:46 p.m.- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - I hereby certify to the correctness of the foregoing.

(Sgd.) ROBERTO P. NAZARENO Secretary General

Approved:JOSE DE VENECIA

SpeakerDOCUMENTS DISTRIBUTED

Printed copies of the following documents were distributed to the Members during thesession of May 24, 2004:1. House Bill No. 4237, entitled:“AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE CONVERSION OF THE LA UNION-MABINI - UBAY PROVINCIAL ROAD TRAVERSING THE MUNICIPALITIES OF CANDIJAY, MABINI AND UBAY, PROVINCE OF BOHOL INTO ANATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR;”2. House Bill No. 4357, entitled:“AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE CONVERSION OF THE PROVINCIAL ROAD WHICH CONNECTS THE MUNICIPALITIES OF GARCIA-HERNANDEZ AND SIERRA-BULLONES, PROVINCE OF BOHOL INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR;”3. House Bill No. 4532, entitled:

“AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE CONVERSION OF THE PROVINCIAL ROAD WHICH TRAVERSES BARANGAYS FATIMA, CATARUNGAN, TIPOLO, UNION, SINANDIGAN AND BIABAS IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF UBAY, AND LEADS TO THE MUNICIPALITY OF MABINI, PROVINCE OF BOHOL INTO A NATIONAL ROAD, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR;”

4. House Bill No. 5001, entitled:

“AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE CONVERSION OF THE PROVINCIAL ROAD TRAVERSING BARANGAY CAMBUAC SUR, MUNICIPALITY OF SIKATUNA TO THE MUNICIPALITY OF SEVILLA, PROVINCE OF BOHOL INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR;”


“AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE CONVERSION OF THE PROVINCIAL ROAD TRAVERSING BARANGAYS CABAWAN, AGAHAY, BUSAO, TORIL AND SAN ROQUE IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF MARIBOJOC, PROVINCE OF BOHOL INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR;”


“AN ACT CONVERTING THE ACCESS ROAD FROM DINAPIGUE, PROVINCE OF ISABELA TO DILASAG, PROVINCE OF AURORA INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR;”


“AN ACT CONVERTING THE PROVINCIAL ROAD WHICH CONNECTS THE MUNICIPALITY OF RAMON TO THE MUNICIPALITY OF SAN ISIDRO, PROVINCE OF ISABELA INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR;”


“AN ACT CONVERTING THE ROAD WHICH STARTS AT THE JUNCTION OF PANGAL SUR IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF JONES, PROVINCE OF ISABELA AND LEADS TO THE TOWN PROPER OF AGLIPAY, PROVINCE OF QUIRINO INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR;”


“AN ACT CONVERTING THE ROAD WHICH CONNECTS THE MUNICIPALITY OF JONES TO BANNAWAG, MUNICIPALITY OF SAN AGUSTIN, PROVINCE OF ISABELA INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR;”


“AN ACT CONVERTING THE CAMAMAN-AN-INDAHAG ROAD IN THE CITY OF CAGAYAN DE ORO, PROVINCE OF MISAMIS ORIENTAL INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR;”


“AN ACT CONVERTING THE BULUA-ANHAON-CANITOAN-PUEBLO DE ORO ROAD IN THE CITY OF CAGAYAN DE ORO, PROVINCE OF MISAMIS ORIENTAL INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFO;R”


“AN ACT CONVERTING THE CARMEN-CANITOAN-PAGATPAT-SAN SIMON-BAIKINGON-IPONAN ROAD IN THE CITY OF CAGAYAN DE ORO, PROVINCE OF MISAMIS ORIENTAL INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APRROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR;”


“AN ACT CONVERTING THE DANSOLIHON-TIGNAPOLOAN-BESIGAN ROAD IN THE CITY OF CAGAYAN DEORO, PROVINCE OF MISAMIS ORIENTAL INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR;”


“AN ACT CONVERTING VARIOUS ROAD NETWORKS IN THE 2ND CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT, PROVINCEOF QUEZON INTO NATIONAL ROADS AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR;”


“AN ACT CONVERTING THE BARANGAY ROAD FROM BARANGAY BUHANGIN TO BARAGAY ACACIA JUNCTION OF THE AGUSAN-DAVAO NATIONAL ROAD, PASSING THROUGH BARANGAYS CABANTIAN AND INDANGAN, DAVAO CITY INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR;”


“AN ACT CONVERTING THE BARANGAY ROAD FROM BARANGAY BUHANGIN TO BARANGAY CALLAWA, PASSING THROUGH BARANGAYS TIGATTO AND MANDUG, DAVAO CITY INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR;”


“AN ACT DECLARING THE 20TH DAY OF AUGUST OF EVERY YEAR AS A SPECIAL NONWORKING HOLIDAY IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF DULAG, PROVINCE OF LEYTE TO BE KNOWN AS MUNICIPAL FOUNDATION DAY;”


“AN ACT CONVERTING THE DAMAY-KALABUGAO-CAMP KIAGTA (NALCO) PROVINCIAL ROAD IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF IMPASUG-ONG, PROVINCE OF BUKIDNON LEADING TOWARDS THE PROVINCE OF MISAMIS ORIENTAL INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATION FUNDS THEREFOR;”


“AN ACT CONVERTING THE VALENCIA-HALAPITAN-CABULING-MATUPE PROVINCIAL ROAD, PROVINCE OF BUKIDNON INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR;”


“AN ACT CONVERTING CERTAIN ROADS IN THE PROVINCE OF ALBAY INTO NATIONAL ROADS AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR;”


“AN ACT CONVERTING THE CIRCUMFERENTIAL ROAD TRAVERSING THE MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT CENTER, BARANGAY CALIBUNAN AND BARANGAY TOLOSA IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF CABADBARAN, PROVINCE OF AGUSAN DEL NORTE INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR;”

22 House Bill No. 5725, entitled:

“AN ACT CONVERTING THE KORONADAL-TAMPAKAN-COLUMBIO PROVINCIAL ROAD LINKING THE PROVINCES OF SOUTH COTABATO AND SULTAN KUDARAT INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR;”


“AN ACT CONVERTING CERTAIN ROADS IN THE SECOND DISTRICT, PROVINCE OF LEYTE INTO NATIONAL ROADS AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR;”


“AN ACT CONVERTING THE PROVINCIAL ROAD FERNANDO V. PAJARILLO AVENUE CONNECTING THE MUNICIPALITIES OF VINZONS AND LABO IN THE PROVINCE OF CAMARINES NORTE INTO A NATIONAL SECONDARY ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR;”


“AN ACT CONVERTING THE NAGA-ULING ROAD CONNECTING THE MUNICIPALITY OF NAGA AND THE CITY OF TOLEDO IN THE PROVINCE OF CEBU INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR;”


“AN ACT CONVERTING LLANO ROAD IN NORTH CALOOCAN CITY INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR;”


“AN ACT CONVERTING TANDANG SORA AVENUE EXTENSION IN CALOOCAN CITY INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR;”


“AN ACT CONVERTING THE CONGRESSIONAL ROAD IN NORTH CALOOCAN CITY INTO A NATIONAL ROAD AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR;”


“AN ACT ESTABLISHING A NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL IN BARANGAY POBLACION, MUNICIPALITY OF

TUBA, PROVINCE OF BENGUET TO BE KNOWN AS THE TUBA NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR;”


“AN ACT ESTABLISHING A NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL IN BARANGAY LUBAS, MUNICIPALITY OF LA TRINIDAD, PROVINCE OF BENGUET TO BE KNOWN AS THE LUBAS NATONAL HIGH SCHOOL AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR;”


“AN ACT SEPARATING THE LEPANTO NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL - BALILI EXTENSION IN BARANGAY BALILI, MUNICIPALITY OF MANKAYAN, PROVINCE OF BENGUET FROM THE LEPANTO NATIONAL HIGHSCHOOL, CONVERTING IT INTO AN INDEPENDENT NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL TO BE KNOWN AS THE BALILI NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR;”


“AN ACT CREATING THE STO. DOMINGO AGRO-FISHERIES POLYTECHNIC IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF STO. DOMINGO, PROVINCE OF ALBAY AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR;”33. House Bill No. 6696, entitled:

“AN ACT ESTABLISHING THE SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONE AND FREEPORT IN THE PROVICE OF ILOCOSSUR, CREATING FOR THIS PURPOSE THE ILOCOS SUR SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONE AND FREEPORT AUTHORITY, APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES;”34. House Bill No. 6699, entitled:

“AN ACT ESTABLISHING THE AURORA SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONE AND FREE PORT IN THE PROVINCE OF AURORA, CREATING FOR THIS PURPOSE THE AURORA SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONE AND FREE PORT AUTHORITY, APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES” and35. House Bill No. 6700, entitled:

“AN ACT CONVERTING THE BATAAN POLYTECHNIC STATE COLLEGE (FORMERLY THE MEDINA LACSON DE LEON SCHOOL OF ARTS AND TRADES), AND ITS DULY INTEGRATEND CAMPUSES: THE BATAAN COMMUNITY COLLEGES, BOTH IN THE CITY OF BALANGA, AND THE BATAAN NATIONAL SCHOOL OF FILIPINO CRAFTSMAN IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF ORANI, BOTH CITY AND MUNICIPALITY LOCATED IN THE PROVINCE OF BATAAN, INTO A STATE UNIVERSITY TO BE KNOWN AS THE STATE UNIVERSITY OF BATAAN (SUB) AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”

-----------------------www.congress.gov.phJournal Service, Plenary Affairs BureauPhilippine House of Representatives

journal no. 45 monday, thursday and friday,journal no. 45 monday, thursday and friday, may 24, 2004...

Documents