Massive displacement of local, foreign workers seen next year

MANILA, Philippines - Many workers here and abroad are expected to be displaced next year, labor groups and recruitment industry officials warned the national government yesterday.

The Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) said about 24,000 local government employees are expected to lose their jobs with the setting up of Bangsamoro Transition Council next year.

“Workers employed in municipalities, cities, provincial and regional offices will be displaced once the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao is dissolved and taken over by the Bangsamoro Transition Council,” said TUCP executive director Louie Corral.

He said the 24,000 workers are the largest number of employees to be affected as the new Bangsamoro government becomes operational.

The government, Corral said, has the primary responsibility to provide safety nets for these workers who had been serving the bureaucracy quietly.

Corral said the Aquino government apparently has no preparation in place for the impending displacement of government employees.

He called on the Civil Service Commission (CSC) to step in and take the necessary course of action.

“We are wondering why the commission has no preparations towards one of very important elements of the transition issue,” TUCP official Gerard Seno said.

Seno said the CSC should ensure that the affected workers would be integrated into the new Bangsamoro government using lateral transfer and merit-based integration rather than leaving their fate to circumstance.

Also yesterday, officials of the job placement industry reported that close to 4,000 Filipino workers employed in US bases in Afghanistan are also expected to be displaced.

Recruitment officials said thousands of overseas Filipino workers are likely to be affected by the impending pullout of US troops from Afghanistan by the end of the year.

They said about 4,000 Filipinos are still working in Bagram Air Base and Kandahar Airfield and only around a thousand will be retained for maintenance of the military facilities.

Some of the workers are expected to return home starting November as their companies closed down after losing bids to supply logistics to the US forces.

But the workers are hoping that they will still be needed by international contractors hired by the US government, the recruitment officials said. - By Mayen Jaymalin (The Philippine Star)

Concerns over possible dislocation of ARMM workers

Labour confederation says 24,000 government workers in Mindanao would be left jobless once a new body takes over from ARMM

Manila: A labour confederation has expressed fears that some 24,000 government workers in Mindanao would be left jobless once a new body takes over from the administration of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

During a recent House of Representatives committee deliberation on the provisions on the proposed Bangsamoro Law, officials of the civil service commission admitted to Rep. Raymond Mendoza of the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) Party list they have not made any plans concerning possible dislocation of workers once an administration for the envisioned self-rule region steps in.

“The labour centre expresses concern over the unknown fate of these workers who would be dislodged once the Bangsamoro law takes effect. We call on the civil service commission to step in and take the necessary course of action. We are wondering why the commission has no preparations towards one of the very important elements of the transition issue,” Gerard Seno, executive vice president of the Associated Labour Unions (ALU) said.

Government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front had largely focused on the political and economic aspects of the planned Bangsamoro — a self-sustaining self-rule region envisioned to be comprised by Muslim dominated areas in Central and Western Mindanao. Authorities had all but completely ignored or had forgotten about the government workers who would be left without jobs once the transition starts.

It can be recalled that in March this year, the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) signed a peace agreement, ending more than two decades of conflict with the Christian-dominated central government in Manila.

According to Seno, the labour group is proposing the civil service commission oversee transition matters pertaining to the labour sector and ensure the workforce to be integrated into the new Bangsamoro government would consider absorbing those currently employed in ARMM, with a merit-based integration adopted rather than leaving displaced employees to fend for themselves.

TUCP executive director Louie Corral said: “This is a significant number of public sector employees to be displaced. But the government has the primary responsibility to provide safety nets for these workers who had been serving the bureaucracy quietly. Rather than allowing these people fall through the crack, they should be integrated as they are already an asset.”

Sources said although a peace agreement had been signed between MILF and the government, it could still take several months until a new authority could be set up to replace ARMM.

The ARMM was set up during the administration of President Fidel V. Ramos as a result of the 1996 peace agreement between Moro National Liberation Front.

More than two decades after ARMM was established incumbent President Benigno Aquino III, as part of his promise to MILF, started work on dismantling ARMM which he described a “failed experiment” in self-rule. - By Gilbert P. Felongco, Correspondent Gulf News

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Group fears displacement of 2,400 ARMM gov't workers with creation of Bangsamoro

Labor group Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP)-Nagkaisa is worried that around 2,400 government employees in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao will lose their jobs once the region is dissolved and taken over by the Bangsamoro Transition Council.

In a statement, the group said the public sector workers are currently employed in municipalities, cities, provincial and regional government offices in the region.

“The labor center expresses concern over the unknown fate of these workers who will be dislodged once the Bangsamoro law takes effect,"said Gerard Seno, executive vice president of the Associated Labor Unions (ALU).

He said the Civil Service Commission should step in, adding the CSC does not seem to have prepared for "one of the very important elements of transition."

During House deliberations on the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law chaired by TUCP Party-list Rep. Raymond Mendoza, CSC resource persons could not answer

TUCP-Nagkaisa said the CSC should make sure that the existing workforce will be integrated into the new Bangsamoro government through "lateral transfer and merit-based integration".

Meanwhile, TUCP Executive Director Louie Corral said that it is the responsibility of the government to look after the welfare of public sector workers.

"Rather than allowing these people fell through the cracks, they should be integrated because they are already an asset," he said. — JDS, GMA News

Rep. Raymond Mendoza as new Commission on Appointments (CA) member

NEW CA MEMBER: Senate President and Commission on Appointments (CA) chairman Franklin M. Drilon administer the oath of office to Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) Party-List Representative Raymond Democrito Mendoza, Wednesday morning as a new member of the CA. Also in photo is Isabela First District Representative Rodolfo Albano III. (PRIB Photo by Joseph Vidal/3 September 2014)

Barbers and make up artists to get SSS membership soon

A lawmaker has filed a bill protecting the rights and promoting the welfare of workers in the wellness centers, beauty and grooming salons, fitness gyms, spas and massage parlors by facilitating their membership in the Social Security System (SSS).

Rep. Raymond Democrito Mendoza (Party-list, TUCP) said under House Bill 2550, workers in wellness centers, beauty salons, fitness gyms and other interrelated services should be removed from the definition of self-employed under the SSS law.

Mendoza said barbershops, salons, spas, massage parlors, wellness or fitness centers or gyms, and any other similar entity to which the workers regularly report to render their services shall be considered their employers.

"Their employers should deduct and withhold from them the average monthly commissions, earnings, compensation or payment, as an employee's contribution to the SSS," Mendoza said.

Mendoza said the bill, which seeks to amend Republic Act 1161 or the Social Security Law, removes the workers from the definition of self-employed under the SSS law irrespective of the contractual arrangement or their non-recognition as employees.

"These workers would be able to continue being an active SSS member and reap the benefits while they are still working or upon their retirement," Mendoza said.

According to Mendoza, workers of wellness centers or of the barbershops, or any other similar entity, lease the facilities of the centers and bring their own set of clients.

Mendoza said the workers, who are being paid on a per-head basis, earn a commission or share in the payments due from their clients. They are not required to observe office hours or report to the company everyday, and do not devote their time exclusively for one company for they are free to work on any other wellness facility, or to engage in any other employment.

"Under the bill, these workers are considered self-employed, thus they pay their entire SSS membership dues, and there is no one to pay the heftier employer counterpart," Mendoza said.

"Irrespective of the contractual arrangement of their non-recognition as employees, or of the kind or source of the commissions, earnings, compensation or payment for their services, barbers, hairstylist, manicurists, make-up artists, masseuse, reflexologists, gym trainers, fitness instructors or dieticians shall not be considered as self-employed," Mendoza added. - Jazmin S. Camero, Media Relations Service-PRIB

Solon seeks additional separation pay for employees terminated due to disease

TUCP Party-List Rep. Raymond Democrito Mendoza has filed a bill seeking to increase the separation pay of employees terminated due to disease.

House Bill 2548 amends Article 284 of Presidential Decree 442, otherwise known as the Labor Code of the Philippines.

Mendoza sought the increase as he stressed that employees terminated due to disease must be treated with compassion for they may never be able to find gainful employment again.

The Labor Code of the Philippines or Presidential Decree 442 as amended, lists and limits the authorized causes for employment termination.

Article 283 of PD 442 allows employer to terminate employment or reduce the total number of personnel due to installation of labor saving devices, redundancy, and retrenchment to prevent losses, and cessation of operations or closure of the establishment. Article 284 of PD 442, on the other hand, allows termination on the grounds of disease.

"In all instances of authorized causes of termination, the separation pay ranges from payment of half month to one month salary for every year of service," Mendoza said.

"It is the policy of the State to afford full protection to labor and continuously endeavor to provide for security of tenure to workers and ameliorate the welfare of those who have been removed from employment for causes other than their own fault," Mendoza added.

The measure seeks the increase of separation pay of employees terminated due to disease, from one month's salary or one-half month salary for every year of service, to the equivalent of at least six months salary or two months salary for every year of service, whichever is greater.

Also, the bill institutionalizes the issuance of a certification by a competent public health authority that the disease is of such nature or at such stage that it cannot be cured within a period of six months even with proper medical treatment before an employee can be terminated for the disease.

The measure also mandates that should the employee terminated due to sickness regain his health, he shall be entitled to reinstatement to his or her former position without loss of seniority.

Belmonte and House leaders spearhead orchestrated response to Yolanda disaster, call for bayanihan

The House of Representatives has been actively working even during the congressional recess as it was able to generate quick response from lawmakers regarding preparations for the resumption of sessions on Monday and outlining the chamber’s agenda that includes two priority resolutions which aim to help victims of super typhoon Yolanda and other calamities.

Speaker Feliciano Belmonte, Jr. said over the past few days, the House leadership conducted a series of meetings with various congressmen and various bodies in preparation for the opening of sessions, which will be on Monday.

"The House Leadership, taking the cue from these various consultations, decided on HR 446 and HJR 7 that have already been filed," said the Speaker during the Ugnayan press conference.

The House leadership headed by the Speaker filed House Resolution 446 "Providing Financial Assistance To The Victims Of Typhoon Yolanda" and House Joint Resolution 7 "Waiving All Rights To The Unreleased Balance Of The 2013 Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) And Authorizing The Executive Department To Realign The Same To The Calamity Fund."

By House leadership, Belmonte said he means the Speaker, Majority Floor Leader, Deputy Speakers and the heads of all the party groups comprising the majority in the House. He said there was also consultation with the House minority, who were also invited to the meetings.

Both HR 446 and HJR 7 are co-authored by Deputy Speakers Henedina Abad, Giorgidi Aggabao, Sergio Apostol, Pangalian Balindong, Carlos Padilla and Roberto Puno, Majority Leader Neptali Gonzales, Minority Leader Ronaldo Zamora, Mel Senen Sarmiento (1st District, Western Samar), Enrique Cojuangco (1st District, Tarlac), Mark Llandro Mendoza (4th District, Batangas), Eleandro Madrona (Lone District, Romblon), Elpidio Barzaga, Jr. (4th District, Cavite), Antonio Lagdameo, Jr. (2nd District, Davao del Norte), Rolando Andaya, Jr. (1st District, Camarines Sur), Mar-Len Abigail Binay (2nd District, Makati City), Nicanor Briones (Party-list, AGAP) and Raymond Democrito Mendoza (Party-list, TUCP).

The Speaker said the House has a third proposal, which cannot be put into writing yet as the 2014 national budget is still pending. This involves the realignment of certain items to create a rehabilitation fund.

“The budget has just passed first reading and is still pending second reading in the Senate, but eventually it will go to the bicam committee meeting and during the bicameral meeting we would like to take steps to realign certain items there which we are trying to study now through the Appropriations Committee to create a rehabilitation fund. Maybe we can grant that the President has the power to realign as we maintain he has, but nonetheless Congress should take steps in view of these tragedies and calamities that have been happening in the country. So, we decided to take the initiative to create that rehabilitation fund and we will see to it that the 2014 budget will not leave the bicam committee without the plan there. The rehabilitation program has minimum of P10 billion but our own version would like it to hit at least P20 billion,” the Speaker said.

Belmonte said a meeting on Monday preceded the meeting of the House leadership regarding HR 446 and HJR 7 on Tuesday with members of the Oversight on Disaster Risk Reduction headed by Rep. Rodolfo Biazon for the House panel.

Prior to this, the Speaker said the House also conducted a meeting with a group of economists headed by former National Economic development Authority (NEDA) Director-General Cielito Habito, in which possible legislations that would support the concept of a more competitive Philippines, were discussed.

He said the House also had a meeting with a group of people associated with the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) during the term of President Fidel Ramos, including Secretary Salvador "Jun" Enriquez, who served as the DBM Secretary for the entire six years of the Ramos Administration.

Aside from the meetings, the House also initiated calls to various sectors to help in raising calamity fund for the victims of super typhoon Yolanda.

"I am calling on residents of Metro Manila, starting with Metro Manila local government units most of whom, if not all, are well funded to contribute to the calamity fund, and we are also calling on business establishments to contribute," said Belmonte.

He said the House is offering Congress as one place where people can drop off their donations. "We will make sure that whatever is dropped off here by way of dry goods, by way of used clothing or anything else...we will see to it that these will be sent to the appropriate places," he said.

Meanwhile, as part of the discussions in the oversight committee on risk reduction, Sarmiento said House members have asked how they can help the calamity-stricken areas in the country. He said an orchestrated response during this emergency phase is what is being planned with the involvement of the different House members.

Meanwhile, the Speaker said House members have also been organizing local officials in the provinces and initiated gathering of relief goods for Yolanda's victims.

"The Governor and Congressmen of La Union called me up to say that they are organizing their whole province to get goods. So I am talking about Governor Manuel Ortega, Congressman Victor Ortega and Congressman Franny Eriguel and Abono Rep. Francisco Emmanuel 'Pacoy' Ortega III. All of them have organized the mayors of their province and they have gathered relief goods. I think that is terrific, and I wish other people who are very fortunate will do the same thing," said the Speaker. - Rowena B. Bundang, Media Relations Service-PRIB

Bill to give members of cooperatives right to organize union

A lawmaker has filed a bill granting members of cooperatives in the country the right to form unions.

Rep. Democrito Mendoza (Party-list, TUCP), author of House Bill 2542, said members of cooperatives should also enjoy similar rights as those of other enterprises, including the right to establish and join organizations of their own choosing.

Mendoza said self-organization should be guaranteed to all workers without distinction or qualification.

The bill seeks to amend Presidential Decree 442, otherwise known as the Labor Code of the Philippines.

Mendoza said cooperatives must respect the rights of their workers to organize or join labor organizations.

"The cooperative's member-owner should guarantee their workers' right to organize for the purpose of collective bargaining," Mendoza said.

Mendoza said the proposed amendment will bring Philippine Law into compliance with the International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention No. 87 on Freedom of Association, which the Philippines is obliged to observed as a member-state of the ILO.

Under the measure, all persons employed in cooperatives, whether operating for profit or not, shall have the right to self-organization and to form, join, or assist labor organizations of their own choosing for purposes of collective bargaining. - Jazmin S. Camero, Media Relations Service-PRIB

SSS coverage for workers in wellness spa, beauty salon, fitness gym sought

A lawmaker is determined to shepherd a measure mandating the compulsory inclusion of thousands of barbers, haircutters or hairstylists, manicurists or pedicurists, make-up artists or beauty professionals, masseuse, reflexologists or therapists and gym trainers, fitness instructors or dieticians in the coverage of the Social Security System (SSS).

Rep. Raymond Democrito Mendoza (Party-list, TUCP) is hopeful that the proposal, which removes the workers in wellness spas, beauty salons and fitness gyms from the category of self-employed, will ultimately be enacted into law in the next Congress.

The proposal is contained in House Bill 1558, which was authored by Mendoza. It is pending in the House Committee on Government Enterprises and Privatization.

In pushing for the proposal, Mendoza noted the recent growth of wellness centers, which, more often than not, are an amalgamation of beauty and grooming salons, fitness gyms, spas and massage parlors and other interrelated services.

"The industry is the bread and butter of thousands of workers in wellness spas, beauty salons and fitness gyms. Most of these are 'experts' in their individual fields who have undergone professional training. However, in most instances, the services of these persons are merely outsourced by the wellness centers. They are not employed but are treated as independent contractors," Mendoza said.

Mendoza said these workers lease the facilities of the centers and bring their own set of clients. Their compensation or payment is based on a per head basis and they earn a commission or share in the payments due their clients.

He added that they are not required to observe office hours or report to the company every day. They are not devoting their time exclusively for one company and are free to work on any other wellness facility, or engage in any other employment.

"One of the predicaments of these workers is their membership in the SSS. With the above-mentioned arrangement, they are considered as self-employed. Thus, they pay their entire SSS membership dues and there is no one to pay the heftier employer counterpart," Mendoza said.

According to Mendoza, the vision of the measure is to compel owners of the wellness center, barbershop, salon, spa, massage parlor, fitness gym or any other similar entity to which they are affiliated or regularly report to render their services which are considered as their employer to deduct and withhold from the concerned person's average monthly commissions, earnings, compensation or payment, his/her employee's contribution, as well as pay for and remit the counterpart employer's contribution.

"By doing this, these persons would be able to continue being an active SSS member and reap the benefits, while still working or upon their retirement," Mendoza stressed.

The measure amends Section 9-A of Republic Act 1161, as amended, otherwise known as the “Social Security Law,” by compulsory including, irrespective of the contractual arrangement of their non-recognition as employees, or of the kind or source of the commissions, earnings, compensation or payment for their services, barbers, haircutters or hairstylists; manicurists or pedicurists; make-up artists; masseuse, reflexologists or therapists and gym trainers, fitness instructors or dieticians, and shall not be considered under the category of self-employed.

"The State affirms labor as a primary social economic force. It shall protect the rights of workers and promote their welfare. The social security of workers in the wellness centers, beauty and grooming salons, fitness gyms, spas and massage parlors, and other interrelated services should always be protected and promoted," Mendoza said. - Lorelei V. Castillo, Media Relations Service-PRIB

Protection of workers during business overhauls pushed

The country's largest organization of labor federations and unions will continue to fight for the protection of workers and the preservation of their jobs during mergers, consolidations or transfer of businesses.

Rep. Raymond Democrito Mendoza of the Trade Union Congress Party (TUCP) Party-List said, any merger, consolidation or transfer of business should not diminish the wages, benefits and other employment terms and conditions of the affected employees.

Mendoza filed House Bill 1557, which seeks to oblige the acquiring or transferee employers to continue the employment of the transferor employer's employees.

"An employment that has been zealously earned, industriously worked for, valued and treasured should be secured. Protection should extend to remunerations and benefits, with all the enhancements merited due to years of arduous service," Mendoza said.

Mendoza said the TUCP has consistently advocated, not only for job generation, but more importantly, for job protection and preservation.

"Competition among businesses has become tremendously intense that the dictum bigger is better has obtained zealous advocates the world over, including our country's multinational companies," Mendoza said.

"This is most especially true in this interesting time and age of globalization. Because of the need to become bigger and more competitive, the incidence of mergers, consolidations and acquisitions, including the sale or transfer of all or substantial assets, business enterprise has become very rampant," Mendoza said.

The problem is, Mendoza lamented, "some employers device these schemes - a corporate mechanism, not really for the purpose of obtaining competitiveness but with the end in view of violating workers' security of tenure, among other rights of employees."

"This plethora of previously unfamiliar corporate occurrences creates a trail of novel issues, such as the rights of employees and liabilities of the employers. This is when the issues of the security of tenure, diminution of wages and benefits and other employment terms and conditions come to fore," Mendoza said.

Mendoza has been strongly batting for his proposed measure saying it is the State's policy to extend utmost protection to the security of tenure, wages, benefits and other employment terms and conditions of employees in cases of merger or consolidation of the business of their employer with other entities.

The protection shall extend in case an employer acquires, transfers, sells, assigns, conveys or leases all, or substantially all assets, business enterprise or going concern to another employer or business entity.

Under the measure, the transferee employer shall have the obligation to continue the employment of the transferor employer's employees, without loss of seniority rights and other privileges.

In case of differences in the employment levels, wage and benefit scales, and other employment terms or conditions, the superior or most favorable to the employees shall prevail.

The transferor employer shall be liable to money claims pertaining to the period when the transferee employer was still the employer.

The measure also aims to limit the ground for termination of employment to redundancy and shall be liable for separation pay or other benefits as prescribed under the Labor Code.

"Plus it sets a presumption that if the transferee employer or new company becomes a bigger entity than the prior one, there can be no declaration of redundancy as the business can absorb the employee," Mendoza added.

The measure also requires the new company to give an employee declared to be redundant in a certain position first priority for employment in the newly created position, if qualified.

Finally, the measure sets out rules on recognition of existing bargaining agents and agreements, protecting not only the unions, but also the benefits worked hard for by them as embodied in the Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBA). - Jazmin S. Camero, Media Relations Service-PRIB

Give VMMC juridical entity to perpetuate efficient service to veterans

Veterans' welfare is one of the many legislative issues that demonstrated the collective non-partisan action of the House of Representatives on matters crucial to public interest, Rep. Herminia Roman today declared.

Roman, Chairman of the House Committee on Veterans Affairs and Welfare, is citing, among others, the House-approved HB 6754 or "An Act to give juridical personality to the present Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC), appropriating funds therefor, and for other purposes."

"HB 6754, like other measures promoting the welfare of our veterans and their dependents, would ensure continued free medical care for the veterans," she said, noting that the principal author of the original bill (HB 6502) is Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.

Other principal authors of the House-passed substitute bill are: Reps. Ma. Amelita Villarosa, Hermilando Mandanas, Anthony Rolando Golez, Jr., Lani Mercado-Revilla, Leopoldo Bataoil, and Raymond Democrito Mendoza.

While transforming the VMMC into a corporate body with juridical personality, HB 6502 seeks to strengthen the hospital's financial operations, reinforces its existence and perpetuation as a first-rate and prestigious medical institution, the authors said.

While reiterating the VMMC's commitment to serve the Filipino war veterans, the measure provides greater flexibility in its operations with autonomy in the exercise of its jurisdiction.

Among other salient provisions, HB 6754 provides that the VMMC, a body corporate, acting through its Board of Trustees, shall have all powers pertaining to a juridical person, and is therefore authorized, among others, to: 1) Acquire and hold in any manner property of whatever nature or description; 2) Enter into contracts; 3) Solicit and receive donations, endowments and funds in the form of contributions, whether in cash or in kind, from both the public and private sectors;

4) Open such accounts in banks and other financial institutions, and to disburse such funds or invest the same as the Board may direct to accomplish or advance the purposes or interest of the VMMC; 5) Invite foreign health specialists and other similar experts in the various medical fields to train the personnel, trainees or residents of the VMMC;

6) Send VMMC personnel to research institutes, medical institutes or universities for advanced training or observation and to attend international or regional conventions, conferences, congresses, seminars as the Board may deem necessary. 7) enter into such agreements and arrangements with medical or other institutions, domestic or foreign as may be deemed desirable by the Board;

8) Adopt a set of by-laws, rules and regulations not inconsistent with law and the provision hereof to govern the administration and operation of the affairs of the VMMC; 9) Establish branches for the VMMC in other provinces or cities of the Philippines as may be deemed necessary for greater service coverage to veterans and their dependents that are living in almost all parts of the country; and 10) Perform all such other acts and things as are or may be necessary or incidental for the accomplishment of the purposes and objectives of the VMMC.

The VMMC Board of Trustees shall be composed of the following: the Secretary of National Defense as Chairperson; Medical Director of the VMMC as Vice Chairperson; Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Defense and Security; Chairperson of the House Committee on Veterans Affairs and Welfare; Secretary of Health; Administrator of the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office; chairman of the Philippine Veterans Banks; President of the Veterans Federation of the Philippines and three appointive members who are veterans and who have exerted conspicuous efforts towards the promotion of veterans' welfare and well-being.

The appointive members shall be appointed by the President of the Philippines and shall serve for a term of three years. - Dionisio P. Tubianosa, Media Relations Service

Solons want labor subjects be included in college curriculum

Lawmakers are pushing for the inclusion of labor subjects into the college social science curriculum.

"College students should equip themselves with knowledge about labor rights, works welfare and benefits, core labor standards, labor laws and regulations," Rep. Raymond Democrito Mendoza (Party-list, TUCP) said.

"These students will eventually be a part of the labor force and therefore should be coached the most important principles pertaining to the role of labor in the self-realization of a human being," Mendoza said.

House Bill 3205, authored principally by Mendoza, vice chairman of the House Committee on Labor and Employment, mandates the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) to integrate labor subjects into the social science curriculum in the tertiary.

Mendoza said CHED should develop a course on labor education to be integrated in the tertiary education curriculum to inculcate among college students a sense of awareness on the rights, privileges as well as the responsibilities to society of workers.

Mendoza, who also chairs the House Committee on Poverty Alleviation, said there are about 2.6 million college students in the country.

The number of students enrolled in private universities and colleges are more than 1.6 million, while more than 820,000 are from state universities and colleges, he said.

He said local universities and colleges have 96,000 while the rest come from other higher education institutions of government.

Rep. Juan Edgardo Angara (Lone District, Aurora), another author of the bill, said labor issues would give students knowledge of the labor situation in the country and the current employment problem.

"The labor education should also include topics on national and global labor situation, labor market concerns, labor issues, overseas work and related problems," said Angara, chairman of the House Committee on Higher Education. - Jazmin S. Camero, Media Relations Service-PRIB

People's participation in development plans pushed

Lawmakers today stressed that people's participation should be institutionalized in the formulation of local and national government development plans.

The House of Representatives has endorsed for Senate approval HB 3264, which seeks to strengthen the participation of civil society organizations (CSOs) in the formulation of national, regional, and local development plans.

"The proposed statute will ensure the participation of civil society organizations in national building," the authors said as they lauded Rep. Benjamin Asilo, Chairman of the Committee on People's Participation, for defending the measure on the floor until its final passage and endorsement to the Senate.

HB 3264, principally authored by Reps. Joseph Victor Ejercito (Lone District, San Juan City), Winston Castelo (2nd District, Quezon City), Linabelle Ruth Villarica (4th District, Bulacan), and Eduardo Gullas (1st District, Cebu), has been approved on third reading by the House and is now pending final action by the Senate.

"The measure strengthens the role of CSOs in pursuit of their collective interests and aspirations and ensure their effective and reasonable participation at all levels of social, political, and economic decision-making," Ejercito and Castelo said.

The bill mandates all national government agencies involved in planning and the regional and local development councils to take measures to ensure the participation of CSOs in the formulation of growth programs.

Likewise, it provides for an accreditation procedure for CSOs that wish to participate in the policy formulations in all levels of governance.

The measure compels the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA), the barangay secretary of each Barangay Development Council, and the coordinator of each Provincial/City/Municipal Development council to issue a notice of call for written submission of CSOs' proposals and/or comments on proposed development plans.

It also requires all submissions to be (a) properly received by the NEDA or the concerned development council; (b) entered into a database for the purpose; and (c) considered in the formulation of the development plan.

"One of the many vital provisions mandates that all deliberations on development plans be open to the public," the authors stressed.

Also, it requires the NEDA and the development council to present proposed development plans to all concerned stakeholders prior to their submission for approval.

There is also the provision tasking the DILG and the NEDA to monitor and evaluate the accreditation and participation mechanisms of CSOs, and further provides for an incentive system through the DILG's Performance Challenge Fund for LGUs Program.

The penal provisions of the bill imposes a fine of P20,000.00 and a suspension of six (6) months to one (1) year on any public official or employee who shall (a) fail to publish the notice of public call for submissions, (b) refuse to acknowledge receipt of any submission made by CSOs, and (c) fail to invite CSOs to the deliberations on development plans.

Other co-authors include Reps. Cinchona Cruz-Gonzales (1st District, Capiz), Raymond Democrito C. Mendoza (TUCP, Party-list), Edwin L. Olivarez (1st District, Parañaque City), Cresente C. Paez (COOP NATCCO, Party-list), Godofredo V. Arquiza (Senior Citizens, Party-list), Rafael V. Mariano (Anakpawis, Party-list), Catalina Leonen-Pizarro (ABS, Party-list), Reena Concepcion G. Obillo (Una ang Pamilya, Party-list) and Sharon S. Garin (AAMBIS-OWA, Party-list). - Dionisio P. Tubianosa, Media Relations Service

House leader condoles with family of Tejada, hopes student loan bill becomes law

A House leader today condoled with the family of UP Manila student Kristel Pilar Mariz Tejada, as the lawmaker expressed hope that a House proposal to put up a voluntary student loan program by banks and government financial institutions (GFIs) will be pursued and ultimately become a law in the coming 16th Congress to help poor but deserving students finish their studies.

Rep. Roger Mercado, (Lone District, Southern Leyte), said it is truly saddening that a bright student like Tejada had to end her life after she was reportedly forced to take a leave of absence from her studies for failing to pay her tuition.

"We condole with the family of Kristel, and we hope that something will be done to truly help indigent but deserving students pursue their great dream to finish their studies and uplift their families' plight," said Mercado.

Mercado, Chairman of the House Committee on Transportation, said in the 15th Congress, various proposals were filed to help students with financial problems continue their college education through scholarship grants, student loan programs, subsidies and incentives.

He said one of these proposals is House Bill 6219, which he authored along with 23 other solons, seeking to establish a voluntary student loan program by banks and GFIs. The bill was approved on third and final reading by the House of Representatives on October 15, 2012 and was transmitted to the Senate on October 17, 2012.

"We hope the bill will be pursued and ultimately become a law in the 16th Congress because it aims to help underprivileged students by granting them loans which they can repay when they are done studying and are already employed," said Mercado.

Other authors of HB 6219 are Reps. Roman Romulo (Lone District, Pasig City), Juan Edgardo Angara (Lone District, Aurora), Emil Ong (2nd District, Northern Samar), Mariano Piamonte, Jr. (Party-list, A Teacher), Eulogio "Amang" Magsaysay (Party-list, AVE), Pedro Romualdo (Lone District, Camiguin), Eduardo Gullas (1st District, Cebu), Cesar Sarmiento (Lone District, Catanduanes), Florencio Flores, Jr. (2nd District, Bukidnon), Raymond Democrito Mendoza (Party-list, TUCP), Sigfrido Tinga (2nd District, Taguig City), Pryde Henry Teves (3rd District, Negros Oriental), Isidro Ungab (3rd District, Davao City), Rufus Rodriguez (2nd District, Cagayan de Oro City), Elmer Panotes (2nd District, Camarines Norte), Fernando Gonzalez (3rd District, Albay), Evelyn Mellana (2nd District, Agusan del Sur), Arnulfo Go (2nd District, Sultan Kudarat), Agapito Guanlao (Party-list, Butil), Ma. Amelita Calimbas-Villarosa (Lone District, Occidental Mindoro), Emmeline Aglipay (Party-list, Diwa), Anthony del Rosario (1st District, Davao del Norte), and Lani Mercado-Revilla (2nd District, Cavite).

The measure aims to assist eligible students obtain post-secondary education from Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) or technical-vocational institutes and colleges, by encouraging banks and government financial institutions to lend money to students to be repaid in installments after the student graduates or leaves the educational institution.

Mercado said the loan should cover the cost of the entire program offered by the HEI or tech-voc institute or college including, but not limited to, tuition and miscellaneous fees. Adjustments shall be made in case of increase in tuition and miscellaneous fees. It shall likewise include an amount for the cost of attendance, covering necessary expenses of the student for books, food, transportation, board and lodging and a reasonable allowance for projects and other school requirements.

For proper implementation and to better facilitate the collection of the loan, the bill provides that the Social Security System (SSS) and the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) shall issue, upon application, an SSS or GSIS number to the student-borrower. The number so issued shall serve as the permanent SSS or GSIS number of the student-borrower in case of future employment with the private or government sector. - Rowena B. Bundang, Media Relations Service-PRIB

Solons urge President Aquino to sign into law the proposed Magna Carta of the Poor

Lawmakers do not doubt that President Aquino will sign into law the proposed Magna Carta of the Poor which will recognize the basic rights of the poor and marginalized Filipinos.

"The government must now take the side of the poor because the issue of poverty has become a critical question of survival. The state intervention is the only realistic route to take to uplift the poor while long term measures, strategies and solutions for poverty reduction are being put in place," said Rep. Rachel Marguerite Del Mar (1st District, Cebu City), principal author of the bill.

Under the bill, Del Mar said all the existing funds of the different departments and agencies implementing pro-poor programs, the 20 percent of the share of the national government in the earnings of Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) and the 50 percent of the share of the national government in all lotteries conducted by the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) shall also be allotted for the program.

Likewise, Del Mar said 50% of the share of the government in the proceeds from sale or disposition of sequestered assets, and the 50% of the proceeds from the sale or disposition by public auction of goods or articles forfeited in favor of the government by the Bureau of Customs (BOC) shall also be added to fund the program.

"The bill will institutionalize the basic rights of the poor, the right to food, the right to employment and livelihood, the right to quality education, the right to shelter, and the right to basic health services and medicines," Del Mar said.

Del Mar said all government departments, agencies and instrumentalities must provide full access to government services for the poor.

"We can only have strong democratic institutions when such greater majority of the people are given the opportunities to participate in the benefits, growth and development of a democratic society," Del Mar said.

"Only when the poor are economically empowered will they be able to participate in the democratic process of setting national goals that affect their daily lives," said Rep. Rodante Marcoleta (Party-list, ALAGAD ), co-author of the bill.

Under the bill, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) shall be principally responsible for the efficient and rational allocation of available funding requirements as may be needed by the different agencies in implementing the proposed act.

Any donation, contribution or grant which may be made to the programs shall be exempted from the donor's tax and may be considered as allowable deduction from the gross income tax of the donor.

The National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor (PCUP), LGUs, the Civil Society Organization (CSOs) and Peoples Organization (POs), shall be formed into a consultative council to ensure the continuity and institutionalization of all the initiatives and programs of the government for the poor.

Co-authors of the bill are Reps. Peter "Sr. Pedro" Unabia (1st District, Misamis Oriental), Ben Evardone (Lone District, Eastern Samar), Marcelino Teodoro (1st District, Marikina City), and Rep. Raymond Democrito Mendoza (Party-list, TUCP), the Chairman of the House Committee on Poverty Alleviation. - Jazmin S. Camero, Media Relations Service-PRIB

HRep approves Proposed Political Party Development Act of 2012

The House of Representatives has approved on third and final reading a proposed measure that is designed to level the playing field among all candidates and political parties during elections.

House Bill 6551, also known as Political Party Development Act of 2012, seeks to strengthen the country's political party system.

"We have to veer away from politics of patronage and money. We have to grow as a nation and center our politics on issues and political platforms," the authors said.

Authors include Reps. Juan Edgardo Angara (Lone District, Aurora), Rufus Rodriguez (2nd District, Cagayan de Oro City), Maximo Rodriguez, Jr. (Party-list, Abante Mindanao), Raymond Democrito Mendoza (Party-list, TUCP) and Arthur Yap (3rd District, Bohol).

"We have to institutionalize and strengthen our political parties by introducing reforms in campaign financing through effective and transparent mechanism to level the playing field and eliminate opportunities for corruption," the authors said.

The proposed Political Party Development Act mandates that a State subsidy be created to augment the operating funds of the Accredited National Political Parties (APPs) and shall be used directly and exclusively for party development and campaign expenditures.

Covered expenditures include party administration, recruitment and civic education, research and policy development, education and training of members, institution-building and constituent outreach programs, and other reasonable logistical and operational expenses that are essential in strengthening the party.

Also included are operating and traveling expenses, information dissemination, advocacy campaigns, production and distribution of electoral paraphernalia and other expenditures under Section 102 of the Omnibus Election Code.

The measure provides that the criteria for eligibility to receive the said funds are based on political representation, organizational strength and mobilization capability, performance and track record of the party.

The total amount of State subsidy fund shall be distributed as follows: 5% shall be used exclusively for monitoring purposes and the conduct of information dissemination campaigns and voters’ education; 30% shall be proportionately and ratably distributed to APPs represented in the Senate based on the number of seats obtained in the most recent general elections.

Likewise, 65% shall be proportionately and ratably distributed to APPs in the House of Representatives based on the number of seats obtained in the most recent general elections.

The proposed Act also prescribes that the system for disclosure and monitoring with the Commission on Audit playing a vital role is examining the financial reports of the APPs on their use of State subsidy. It also provides that officials of every APP shall submit a sworn statement of their assets and liabilities to the COA, which shall be made available to the public at least six (6) months before elections.

The Act shall apply to political parties registered with and certified to as such by the Commission on Elections. Parties are also mandated to craft clear policy agenda and program of governance consistent with their party philosophy and ideals. Each party is also mandated to formulate a system on nomination and selection of candidates, in which all party members are involved.

Under the Act, voluntary contributions to any APP shall be up to P1-million if from a natural person, and up to P10-million if from a juridical person. Any contribution in cash or in kind to a political party for campaign purposes, duly reported to the Commission, shall be exempt from donor’s tax.

The bill further provides that the amount of P500-million is appropriated out of the funds of the National Treasury not otherwise appropriated, and the amount of P350-million shall be appropriated every year thereafter.

The Comelec and the Department of Budget and Management shall promulgate the guidelines to facilitate the release of the funds to every APP, and for the Comelec to promulgate the necessary rules and regulations to effectively implement the provisions of the proposed Act. - Dionisio P. Tubianosa, Media Relations Service

House okays bill strengthening the political party system

The House of Representatives has approved on third and final reading a bill institutionalizing and strengthening political parties in the country through reforms in campaign financing through effective and transparent mechanisms during elections.

By a unanimous 168 votes, the House approved House Bill 6551 designed to level the playing field among all candidates and political parties during elections and to reduce opportunities for graft and corruption.

Principally authored by Rep. Rufus Rodriguez (2nd District, Cagayan de Oro City), the proposed "Political Party Development Act of 2012," applies to political parties duly registered with and certified to as such by the Commission on Elections. Parties are also mandated to craft a clear policy agenda and program of governance consistent with their party philosophy and ideals.

Under the bill, each party is also mandated to formulate a system on nomination and selection of candidates, in which all party members are involved.

The measure mandates that a State subsidy be created to augment the operating funds of the Accredited National Political Parties (APPs) and shall be used directly and exclusively for party development and campaign expenditures.

As such, these expenditures include party administration, recruitment and civic education, research and policy development, education and training of members, institution-building and constituent outreach programs, other reasonable logistical and operational expenses that are essential in strengthening the party, operating and traveling expenses, information dissemination, advocacy campaigns, production and distribution of electoral paraphernalia and other expenditures under Section 102 of the Omnibus Election Code.

The bill provides that the total amount of state subsidy fund shall be distributed as follows: 5 percent shall be used exclusively for monitoring purposes and the conduct of information dissemination campaigns and voters' education; 30 percent shall be proportionately and ratably distributed to accredited political parties (APPs) represented in the Senate based on the number of seats obtained in the most recent general elections.

Moreover, 65 percent shall be proportionately and ratably distributed to APPs in the House of Representatives based on the number of seats obtained in the most recent general elections.

Under the measure, voluntary contributions to any political party shall be allowed up to P1-million if from a natural person, and up to P10-million if from a juridical person. Any contribution in cash or in kind to a political party for campaign purposes, duly reported to the Commission, shall be exempt from donor's tax.

It provides also that criteria for eligibility to receive the said fund are based on political representation, organizational strength and mobilization capability, performance and track record of the party.

It mandates that disclosure and performance monitoring under this Act shall consist of the following: (a) the Commission on Audit (COA) shall examine the financial reports of the APPs on their use of the State subsidy; (b) APPs shall institute internal control mechanisms to promote accountability and transparency and (c) officials of every APP shall submit a sworn statement of their assets and liabilities to the Commission which shall be made available to the public at least six months before elections.

Another vital provision of the bill is appropriation of the amount of P500-million out of the funds of the National Treasury not otherwise appropriated, and the appropriation of P350-million every year thereafter.

The Comelec and the Department of Budget and Management are directed to promulgate guidelines to facilitate the release of the funds to every APP, and for the Comelec to promulgate the necessary rules and regulations to effectively implement the provisions of the proposed Act.

Other authors of the bill are Reps. Juan Edgardo Angara (Lone District, Aurora), Maximo Rodriguez, Jr. (Party-list, Abante Mindanao), Raymond Democrito Mendoza (Party-list, TUCP), Arthur Yap (3rd District, Bohol) and Elpidio Barzaga, Jr. (Lone District, City of Dasmariñas). - Lorelei V. Castillo, Media Relations Service-PRIB

House approves Political Party System Reform Bill

The House of Representatives has approved on second reading a bill designed to level the playing field among all candidates and political parties during elections and to reduce opportunities for graft and corruption.

House Bill 6551, known as "An Act Strengthening the Political Party System, appropriating funds therefor and for other purposes," was steered through plenary by the Committee on Suffrage and Electoral Reforms chaired by Rep. Elpidio Barzaga, Jr.

The bill consolidated three original measures, House Bill 49, House Bill 403 and House Bill 159, which were authored by Reps. Rufus Rodriguez (2nd District, Cagayan de Oro City), Juan Edgardo Angara (Lone District, Aurora), Maximo Rodriguez (Party-list, Abante Mindanao), Raymond Democrito Mendoza (Party-list, TUCP) and Arthur Yap (3rd District, Bohol), respectively.

"We have to institutionalize and strengthen our political parties by introducing reforms in campaign financing through effective and transparent mechanisms to level the playing field and eliminate opportunities for corruption," the authors stressed.

The proposed Political Party Development Act of 2012 mandates that a State subsidy be created to augment the operating funds of the Accredited National Political Parties (APPs) and shall be used directly and exclusively for party development and campaign expenditures.

These expenditures include party administration, recruitment and civic education, research and policy development, education and training of members, institution-building and constituent outreach programs, other reasonable logistical and operational expenses that are essential in strengthening the party, operating and traveling expenses, information dissemination, advocacy campaigns, production and distribution of electoral paraphernalia and other expenditures under Section 102 of the Omnibus Election Code.

The bill also provides that criteria for eligibility to receive the said fund are based on political representation, organizational strength and mobilization capability, performance and track record of the party.

The total amount of state subsidy fund shall be distributed as follows: 5 percent shall be used exclusively for monitoring purposes and the conduct of information dissemination campaigns and voters' education; 30 percent shall be proportionately and ratably distributed to APPs represented in the Senate based on the number of seats obtained in the most recent general elections.

Likewise, 65 percent shall be proportionately and ratably distributed to APPs in the House of Representatives based on the number of seats obtained in the most recent general elections.

It also provides that disclosure and performance monitoring under this Act shall consist of the following: (a) the Commission on Audit (COA) shall examine the financial reports of the APPs on their use of the State subsidy; (b) APPs shall institute internal control mechanisms to promote accountability and transparency and (c) officials of every APP shall submit a sworn statement of their assets and liabilities to the Commission which shall be made available to the public at least six months before elections.

HB 6551 shall apply to political parties duly registered with and certified to as such by the Commission on Elections. Parties are also mandated to craft clear policy agenda and program of governance consistent with their party philosophy and ideals. Each party is also mandated to formulate a system on nomination and selection of candidates, in which all party members are involved.

Another vital provision is that voluntary contributions to any APP shall be up to P1-million if from a natural person, and up to P10-million if from a juridical person. Any contribution in cash or in kind to a political party for campaign purposes, duly reported to the Commission, shall be exempt from donor's tax.

The bill provides that the amount of P500-million is appropriated out of the funds of the National Treasury not otherwise appropriated, and the amount of P350-million shall be appropriated every year thereafter.

The Comelec and the Department of Budget and Management shall promulgate guidelines to facilitate the release of the funds to every APP, and for the Comelec to promulgate the necessary rules and regulations to effectively implement the provisions of the proposed Act. - Dionisio P. Tubianosa, Media Relations Service

House to pass a bill allowing non-governmental groups to participate in public hearings

The House of Representatives is set to approve on second reading a bill assuring the participation of civil society or private groups in congressional public hearings and local government units' (LGUs) budget deliberations upon resumption of sessions in January 2012.

House Bill 3773 shall be known as "An Act institutionalizing the participation of Bona Fide People's Organizations (CSOs) in budget hearings and deliberations in Congress, in National Government Agencies (NGAs), and Local Government Units (LGUs)."

Deputy Speaker Lorenzo Tañada III, principal author of the bill, said the proposed law would allow the exercise of the people's right to participate in public decision-making and in the process, enhance accountability on the use of taxpayers' money.

"This will institutionalize people's participation in budget deliberation in national and local levels of government," Tañada said.

Key provisions of the bill mandate that the application for accreditation shall be filed at the Office of the Secretary of the Senate or the Secretary General of the House of Representatives or the Local Sanggunian of Local Government Units.

It authorizes the Secretaries of both chambers of Congress and the respective local sanggunians to cancel the certificate of accreditation of any people's organization (PO) and non-government organization (NGO) which have been found guilty of having procured their certificates by fraud or deceit or through error.

Among the privileges granted to PO and NGO are the right to receive notices of hearings and consultations and/or call for written submissions; participate through duly authorized representatives in regular and consultative meetings or hearings concerning annual budget deliberations; submit its own alternative or position paper and alternative sources of financing on the projects, programs and activities; and present position papers or written proposals.

Likewise, they will be given access to copies of bills or budget proposals from the Senate, the House of Representatives, and the local Sanggunian.

Furthermore, the measure directs Congress and LGUs to post on the World Wide Web and on their local bulletin boards pertinent documents of the proposed budget, as enumerated in the measure.

The bill imposes a jail term of three months and a fine of not more than P50,000 to violators.

The co-authors of the bill are Reps. Cresente Paez (Partylist, COOP NATCCO) Benjamin Asilo (1st District, Manila), Cinchona Gonzales (Partylist, CIBAC), Raymond Democrito Mendoza (Partylist, TUCP), Edwin Olivares (1st District, Parañaque), Christopher Co (Partylist, AKO BICOL), Mark Aeron Sambar (Partylist, PBA) and Arnel Ty (Partylist, LPGMA). - Dionisio P. Tubianosa, MRS-PRIB

Cultural communities will be given a seat in policy-making bodies

Representatives of indigenous cultural communities will now be given a seat in policy-making bodies or local legislative councils all across the country.

Rep. Nancy Catamco (2nd District, North Cotabato), one of the main authors of House Resolution 916, lauded Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo for issuing a memorandum circular mandating the right to representation of indigenous cultural communities or indigenous peoples (ICC/IPs) in policy-making bodies and other local legislative councils.

The House of Representative has adopted HR 916 as House Resolution 1373 on June 7, 2011. The measure was submitted for approval by the House Committee on National Cultural Communities headed by Rep. Teddy Brawner Baguilat Jr. (Lone District, Ifugao).

DILG Secretary Robredo issued on October 20, 2010 Memorandum Circular MC2010-119 entitled "Mandatory Representation of Indigenous Cultural Communities or Indigenous Peoples in Policy-Making Bodies and Other Local Legislative Councils."

Catamco said the circular directs all local chief executives to strictly observe the ICC/IP mandatory representation in the local Sanggunian. Robredo also directed all DILG Regional Directors and the ARMM Regional Governor to disseminate the circular and provide technical assistance to LGUs, if necessary.

"The DILG Secretary's directive is highly praiseworthy and is in congruence with State advocacy and the policy of recognizing, protecting and promoting the rights and welfare of ICCs and IPs throughout the country," Catamco said.

Catamco said the State recognizes and promotes the rights of indigenous cultural communities under the constitution.

"One of these rights is to participate in policy and decision-making, for which reason Republic Act 8371, or the Indigenous Peoples' Rights Act of 1997, was enacted," Catamco said.

"If ICCs and IPs may participate fully at all levels of decision-making on matters which may affect their rights, lives and destinies through procedures, they themselves have determined, as well as maintain and develop their own indigenous political structures," Catamco said.

Catamco said although the processes for the qualification and selection of ICC/IP representatives in local legislative bodies have already been provided for in the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) Administrative Order No. 1, Series of 2009, there is still minimal compliance on the part of local government legislative bodies.

"There is still inadequate representation of indigenous cultural communities in policy-making bodies in LGUs, to which they belong," Catamco said.

The co-authors of the measure are Reps. Mylene J. Garcia-Albano (2nd District, Davao City), Eric G. Singson Jr. (2nd District, Ilocos Sur), Dakila Carlo E. Cua (Lone District, Quirino), Ma. Carmen Zamora-Apsay (1st District, Compostela Valley);

Reps. Reynaldo V. Umali (2nd District, Oriental Mindoro), Bernardo M. Vergara (Lone District, Baguio City), Teddy A. Casiño (Party-list Bayan Muna), Arlene J. Bag-Ao (Party-list Akbayan), Eleandro Jesus F. Madrona (Lone District, Romblon), Walden F. Bello (Party-list Akbayan), Angelo B. Palmones (Party-list Agham);

Reps. Victorino Dennis M. Socrates (2nd District, Palawan), Randolph S. Ting (3rd District, Cagayan), Eleanor C. Bulut-Begtang (Lone District, Apayao), Maximo B. Dalog (Lone District, Mt. Province), Raymond Democrito C. Mendoza (Party-list TUCP), Jesus N. Sacdalan (1st District, North Cotabato) and Pedro Acharon 1st District, South Cotabato). - Melissa M. Reyes, MRS-PRIB