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30 August

RA11453: AN ACT FURTHER STRENGTHENING THE POWERS AND FUNCTIONS OF THE AUTHORITY OF THE FREEPORT AREA OF BATAAN (AFAB), AMENDING FOR THIS PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9728, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE "FREEPORT AREA OF BATAAN (FAB) ACT OF 2009

Republic Act (RA) 11453, enacted in August 30, 2019, strengthens the powers and functions of the Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB). The law expands the territory of the Freeport Area of Bataan (FAB) in Mariveles, Bataan, and increases its capital stock to PHP 2.5 billion. What is RA 11453? RA 11453 empowers AFAB to act as an offshore financial center offering international financial and business services such as banking, offshore fund management, and cryptocurrency mining. Other Key Provisions: Tax Exe...

Read More By Congressman Christopher “Toff” V.P. de Venecia
28 August

RA11449: AN ACT PROVIDING FOR ADDITIONAL PROHIBITIONS TO AND INCREASING PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8484, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE "ACCESS DEVICES REGULATION ACT OF 1998

Republic Act (RA) 11449, enacted on August 28, 2019, amends the "Access Devices Regulation Act of 1998" to include additional prohibitions and increased penalties for access device fraud. The law recognizes the increasing use of access devices in commercial transactions and the need to protect the public from fraud. What is RA 11449? RA 11449 strengthens the law against the fraudulent use of access devices, including credit cards, debit cards, and online banking accounts, by increasing penalties and expanding the definition of...

Read More By Congressman Christopher “Toff” V.P. de Venecia
22 August

RA11392: AN ACT ESTABLISHING A FRAMEWORK FOR THE SELECTION OF NATIONAL PERFORMING ARTS COMPANIES, DESIGNATING FOR THE PURPOSE CERTAIN PERFORMING ARTS GENRES AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR

Republic Act (RA) 11392, enacted on August 22, 2019, establishes a framework for selecting and designating National Performing Arts Companies (NPACs) in certain performing arts genres. The Act aims to recognize and support non-government organizations that have demonstrated exceptional competence and success in the development, training, documentation, and performance of these genres. What is RA 11392? RA 11392 provides a framework for selecting and designating NPACs, ensuring that the best performing arts groups in the country...

Read More By Congressman Christopher “Toff” V.P. de Venecia
08 August

RA11369: AN ACT RECOGNIZING THE OBSERVANCE OF NOVEMBER 17 OF EVERY YEAR AS NATIONAL STUDENTS' DAY

Republic Act (RA) 11369, enacted on August 8, 2019, declares November 17 of every year as National Students' Day in the Philippines. The Act recognizes the importance of student activism in upholding democracy and promoting social responsibility. What is RA 11369? RA 11369 honors the role of students in nation-building and encourages them to actively participate in civic activities. This declaration is a testament to the power of youth in shaping the future of the country. Other Key Provisions: International Student...

Read More By Congressman Christopher “Toff” V.P. de Venecia
31 July

RA11357: AN ACT GRANTING SOLAR PARA SA BAYAN CORPORATION A FRANCHISE TO CONSTRUCT, INSTALL, ESTABLISH, OPERATE AND MAINTAIN DISTRIBUTED ENERGY RESOURCES AND MICROGRIDS IN THE REMOTE AND UNVIABLE, OR UNSERVED OR UNDERSERVED AREAS IN SELECTED PROVINCES OF THE PHILIP

Republic Act (RA) 11357, enacted on July 31, 2019, grants Solar Para Sa Bayan Corporation a franchise to construct, install, establish, operate, and maintain distributed energy resources (DERs) and microgrids in remote, unviable, unserved, or underserved areas in the Philippines. The Act aims to improve access to sustainable energy in areas with limited or no electricity services. What is RA 11357? RA 11357 promotes the use of renewable energy technologies to provide electricity to remote and underserved areas, thereby contribu...

Read More By Congressman Christopher “Toff” V.P. de Venecia
25 July

RA11350: AN ACT CREATING THE NATIONAL COMMISSION OF SENIOR CITIZENS, PROVIDING FOR ITS FUNCTIONS, ABOLISHING THE NATIONAL COORDINATING COUNCIL AND MONITORING BOARD, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7432, AS AMENDED, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR

Republic Act (RA) 11350, enacted on July 25, 2019, creates the National Commission of Senior Citizens (NCSC) to promote and protect the rights and well-being of senior citizens in the Philippines. The NCSC is an independent body under the Office of the President.   What is RA 11350? RA 11350 establishes the NCSC, a dedicated body focused on addressing the needs and concerns of senior citizens. This ensures that senior citizens have a strong advocate within the government to promote their rights and welfare.   Ot...

Read More By Congressman Christopher “Toff” V.P. de Venecia
26 April

RA11333: AN ACT STRENGTHENING THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE PHILIPPINES, REPEALING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8492, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE "NATIONAL MUSEUM ACT OF 1998", AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR

Republic Act (RA) 11333, enacted on April 26, 2019, strengthens the National Museum of the Philippines by renaming it, defining its mandate, and improving its organizational structure. The Act aims to promote Philippine culture through the preservation and promotion of the country's artistic, cultural, and natural heritage.   What is RA 11333? RA 11333 strengthens the National Museum, providing a solid foundation for the preservation and promotion of Philippine cultural heritage. This ensures that the country's rich histor...

Read More By Congressman Christopher “Toff” V.P. de Venecia
17 April

RA11315: AN ACT ESTABLISHING A COMMUNITY-BASED MONITORING SYSTEM AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR

Republic Act (RA) 11315, enacted on April 17, 2019, establishes a community-based monitoring system (CBMS) in every city and municipality in the Philippines. The Act aims to provide a tool for local government units (LGUs) to gather and analyze data for planning, program implementation, and impact monitoring at the local level.   What is RA 11315? RA 11315 promotes community participation in gathering and utilizing data for local development. This involvement ensures that development programs are tailored to the specific n...

Read More By Congressman Christopher “Toff” V.P. de Venecia
12 April

RA11291: AN ACT PROVIDING FOR A MAGNA CARTA OF THE POOR

Republic Act (RA) 11291, also known as the Magna Carta of the Poor, was enacted on April 12, 2019. The Act aims to provide a mechanism for the government to assist the poor in accessing basic necessities and services, such as food, work, education, housing, and healthcare. It mandates the implementation of a social protection system and a system for targeting beneficiaries. What is RA 11291? RA 11291 establishes a framework for a comprehensive anti-poverty program, ensuring that the poor have access to essential goods and servi...

Read More By Congressman Christopher “Toff” V.P. de Venecia
08 March

RA11234: AN ACT ESTABLISHING THE ENERGY VIRTUAL ONE-STOP SHOP FOR THE PURPOSE OF STREAMLINING THE PERMITTING PROCESS OF POWER GENERATION, TRANSMISSION, AND DISTRIBUTION PROJECTS

Republic Act (RA) 11234, enacted on March 8, 2019, establishes an Energy Virtual One-Stop Shop (EVOSS) to streamline the permitting process for energy generation, transmission, and distribution projects in the Philippines. The Act aims to simplify and expedite the process, thereby promoting the development of energy projects in the country. What is RA 11234? RA 11234 introduces the EVOSS, an online platform that simplifies and expedites the application process for energy projects. This is crucial for improving the ease of doing...

Read More By Congressman Christopher “Toff” V.P. de Venecia
22 February

RA11228: AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE MANDATORY PHILHEALTH COVERAGE FOR ALL PERSONS WITH DISABILITY (PWDs), AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7277, AS AMENDED, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE "MAGNA CARTA FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITY

Republic Act (RA) 11228, enacted on February 26, 2019, amends the Magna Carta for Persons with Disability (RA 7277) to mandate the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) coverage for all persons with disability (PWDs). The Act aims to ensure that PWDs have access to quality healthcare services and offset the additional costs associated with their disability. What is RA 11228? RA 11228 guarantees automatic PhilHealth coverage for all registered PWDs, ensuring their access to essential healthcare services. This prov...

Read More By Congressman Christopher “Toff” V.P. de Venecia
20 February

RA11223: AN ACT INSTITUTING UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE FOR ALL FILIPINOS, PRESCRIBING REFORMS IN THE HEALTH CARE SYSTEM, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR

Republic Act No. 11223, known as the "Universal Health Care Act," guarantees automatic inclusion of every Filipino citizen into the National Health Insurance Program (NHIP), ensuring access to comprehensive health services without financial hardship. This includes preventive, promotive, curative, rehabilitative, and palliative care for medical, dental, mental, and emergency health needs. Within two years, PhilHealth is mandated to implement a comprehensive outpatient benefit, including drug benefits and emergency medical services. The Departm...

Read More By Congressman Christopher “Toff” V.P. de Venecia
14 February

RA11219: AN ACT EXTENDING FOR ANOTHER TWENTY-FIVE (25) YEARS THE FRANCHISE GRANTED TO THE IGLESIA NI CRISTO (CHURCH OF CHRIST), UNDER REPUBLIC NO. 4339, AS AMENDED BY REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7225

Republic Act (RA) 11219, enacted on February 14, 2019, extends the franchise granted to the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) to construct, operate, and maintain telecommunications systems throughout the Philippines. The franchise is extended for another 25 years from the effectivity of the Act. What is RA 11219? RA 11219 allows the INC to continue providing telecommunications services, including broadcasting and other electronic communications, to its members and the public. This is crucial for the INC's religious mission and its abilit...

Read More By Congressman Christopher “Toff” V.P. de Venecia
14 February

RA11215: AN ACT INSTITUTIONALIZING A NATIONAL INTEGRATED CANCER CONTROL PROGRAM AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR

Republic Act (RA) 11215, enacted on February 14, 2019, institutionalizes a National Integrated Cancer Control Program (NICCP) in the Philippines. The Act aims to provide a comprehensive and integrated approach to cancer control, from prevention to survivorship. What is RA 11215? RA 11215 creates a national program to combat cancer, ensuring that Filipinos have access to affordable and quality cancer care. This is crucial for improving cancer outcomes and reducing the burden of cancer on individuals and families. Other Key...

Read More By Congressman Christopher “Toff” V.P. de Venecia
20 February

RA11210: AN ACT INCREASING THE MATERNITY LEAVE PERIOD TO ONE HUNDRED FIVE (105) DAYS FOR FEMALE WORKERS WITH AN OPTION TO EXTEND FOR AN ADDITIONAL THIRTY (30) DAYS WITHOUT PAY, AND GRANTING AN ADDITIONAL FIFTEEN (15) DAYS FOR SOLO MOTHERS, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES

Republic Act (RA) 11210, enacted on February 20, 2019, increases the maternity leave period for female workers in the Philippines to 105 days with full pay, regardless of their civil status or the legitimacy of their child. The law also provides an option to extend the leave for an additional 30 days without pay. Highlight of RA 11210 RA 11210 significantly expands the maternity leave period, providing female workers with more time to recover from childbirth and care for their newborns. This is a major step towards promoting th...

Read More By Congressman Christopher “Toff” V.P. de Venecia
14 February

RA11203: AN ACT LIBERALIZING THE IMPORTATION, EXPORTATION AND TRADING OF RICE, LIFTING FOR THE PURPOSE THE QUANTITATIVE IMPORT RESTRICTION ON RICE, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES

Republic Act (RA) 11203, enacted on February 14, 2019, amends Republic Act (RA) No. 8178, also known as the Agricultural Tariffication Act of 1996. The law seeks to replace quantitative import restrictions on rice with tariffs, with the aim of ensuring food security and making the country's agricultural sector more competitive. What is RA 11203? RA 11203 liberalizes the rice trade, allowing for greater importation of rice while providing support to local farmers through the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF). This aim...

Read More By Congressman Christopher “Toff” V.P. de Venecia
14 February

RA11201: AN ACT CREATING THE DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SETTLEMENTS AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, DEFINING ITS MANDATE, POWERS AND FUNCTIONS, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR

Republic Act (RA) 11201, enacted on February 14, 2019, creates the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) to consolidate the functions of the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC) and the Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board (HLURB). The Act aims to streamline the management of housing, human settlement, and urban development in the Philippines. What is RA 11201? RA 11201 establishes the DHSUD as the primary government agency responsible for housing and urban development, promoting b...

Read More By Congressman Christopher “Toff” V.P. de Venecia
10 January

RA11188: AN ACT PROVIDING FOR THE SPECIAL PROTECTION OF CHILDREN IN SITUATIONS OF ARMED CONFLICT AND PROVIDING PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS THEREOF

Republic Act (RA) 11188, enacted on January 10, 2019, provides special protection to children in situations of armed conflict. The Act recognizes the vulnerability of children in armed conflict and seeks to ensure their safety, welfare, and development. Highlight of RA 11188 RA 11188 declares children as "Zones of Peace," ensuring their protection from all forms of abuse, violence, and exploitation during armed conflict. This declaration underscores the State's commitment to upholding the rights of children and promoting their...

Read More By Congressman Christopher “Toff” V.P. de Venecia
03 January

RA11180: AN ACT REQUIRING HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS TO REPORT PARTICIPATION AND PROGRAM SUPPORT EXPENDITURES IN ALL COLLEGE ATHLETIC PROGRAMS

Republic Act (RA) 11180, enacted on January 3, 2019, requires Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to report participation and program support expenditures in all college athletic programs. The Act aims to promote transparency and accountability in the allocation of resources for college athletic programs. Highlight of RA 11180 RA 11180 promotes gender equality in sports by requiring HEIs to disclose data on the participation and scholarship expenditures of male and female athletes. This provision ensures that both male and fem...

Read More By Congressman Christopher “Toff” V.P. de Venecia
03 January

RA11168: AN ACT ALLOWING HOME ECONOMICS GRADUATES TO TEACH HOME ECONOMICS SUBJECTS AND HOME ECONOMICS-RELATED TECHNICAL-VOCATIONAL SUBJECTS IN ALL PUBLIC AND PRIVATE ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS, RESPECTIVELY, CONSISTENT WITH SECTION 8 OF REPU

Republic Act (RA) 11168, enacted on January 3, 2019, allows Home Economics graduates to teach Home Economics and Home Economics-related technical-vocational subjects in all public and private elementary and secondary schools, respectively. This Act recognizes the valuable contribution that Home Economics graduates can make to the education sector and aims to address the shortage of licensed teachers in this field. Highlight of RA 11168 RA 11168 opens opportunities for Home Economics graduates to share their expertise and passio...

Read More By Congressman Christopher “Toff” V.P. de Venecia
14 December

RA11158: AN ACT CONVERTING THE SATELLITE OFFICE OF THE LAND TRANSPORTATION OFFICE (LTO) IN THE CITY OF BAYUGAN, PROVINCE OF AGUSAN DEL SUR, INTO A REGULAR DISTRICT OFFICE, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR

Republic Act (RA) 11158, enacted on December 14, 2018, converts the Land Transportation Office (LTO) satellite office in Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur, into a regular district office. Highlight of RA 11158 RA 11158 establishes a regular LTO district office in Bayugan City, providing residents with more accessible and efficient services. This is crucial for promoting road safety and efficient transportation management in the area. Other Key Provisions Operationalization: The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is mand...

Read More By Congressman Christopher “Toff” V.P. de Venecia
30 October

RA11106: AN ACT DECLARING FILIPINO SIGN LANGUAGE AS THE NATIONAL SIGN LANGUAGE OF THE FILIPINO DEAF AND THE OFFICIAL SIGN LANGUAGE OF GOVERNMENT IN ALL TRANSACTIONS INVOLVING THE DEAF, AND MANDATING ITS USE IN SCHOOLS, BROADCAST MEDIA, AND WORKPLACES

Republic Act (RA) 11106, enacted on October 30, 2018, declares Filipino Sign Language (FSL) as the national sign language of the Filipino deaf and the official sign language of government in all transactions involving the deaf. The Act also mandates the use of FSL in schools, broadcast media, and workplaces. Highlight of RA 11106 RA 11106 breaks down communication barriers for the deaf community by recognizing and promoting FSL. This is a significant step towards inclusivity and ensures that deaf Filipinos can fully participate...

Read More By Congressman Christopher “Toff” V.P. de Venecia
06 August

RA11055: AN ACT ESTABLISHING THE PHILIPPINE IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM

Republic Act (RA) 11055, enacted on August 6, 2018, establishes the Philippine Identification System (PhilSys), a single national identification system for all citizens and resident aliens of the Philippines. The Act aims to promote seamless service delivery, improve efficiency and transparency in government transactions, and enhance financial inclusion. Highlight of RA 11055 RA 11055 creates a unified identification system, simplifying public and private transactions by providing a valid proof of identity. This is expected to...

Read More By Congressman Christopher “Toff” V.P. de Venecia
29 June

RA11053: AN ACT PROHIBITING HAZING AND REGULATING OTHER FORMS OF INITIATION RITES OF FRATERNITIES, SORORITIES, AND OTHER ORGANIZATIONS, AND PROVIDING PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS THEREOF, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8049, ENTITLED "AN ACT REGULATING HAZI

Republic Act (RA) 11053, enacted on June 29, 2018, amends the Anti-Hazing Law of 1995 (RA 8049) to strengthen the prohibition and regulation of hazing and other forms of initiation rites. The Act aims to eliminate hazing and ensure that initiation rites do not harm physical or psychological well-being. Highlight of RA 11053 RA 11053 imposes stricter measures against hazing, including a total ban on all forms of hazing and increased penalties for violators. This is crucial for protecting the youth and promoting a culture of resp...

Read More By Congressman Christopher “Toff” V.P. de Venecia
29 June

RA11039: AN ACT INSTITUTIONALIZING THE ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES EMERGENCY AND RESILIENCY FUND AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR

Republic Act (RA) 11039, enacted on June 29, 2018, institutionalizes the Electric Cooperatives Emergency and Resiliency Fund (ECERF). The Act aims to ensure the continuous supply of electricity in the event of a fortuitous event or force majeure by providing financial assistance to electric cooperatives for the restoration or rehabilitation of damaged infrastructure. Highlight of RA 11039 RA 11039 prioritizes the uninterrupted supply of electricity, a basic necessity, by establishing a dedicated fund to help electric cooperativ...

Read More By Congressman Christopher “Toff” V.P. de Venecia
15 June

RA11035: AN ACT INSTITUTIONALIZING THE BALIK SCIENTIST PROGRAM, APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES

Republic Act (RA) 11035, enacted on June 15, 2018, institutionalizes the Balik Scientist Program, which encourages Filipino scientists, technologists, and other experts residing abroad to return to the Philippines and share their expertise for the country's development. Highlight of RA 11035: The Balik Scientist Program provides various benefits and incentives to attract and encourage Filipino experts from abroad to contribute their knowledge and skills to the country's development. This exchange of expertise is vital for boosting th...

Read More By Congressman Christopher “Toff” V.P. de Venecia
02 February

RA10969: AN ACT PROVIDING FREE IRRIGATION SERVICE, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 3601, AS AMENDED, APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES

Republic Act (RA) 10969, enacted on February 2, 2018, provides free irrigation service to farmers. The Act aims to lower the cost of production for farmers and increase agricultural productivity. Highlight of RA 10969: RA 10969 removes the burden of irrigation service fees for small farmers, allowing them to invest more in their farms and improve their livelihoods. Other Key Provisions: Scope: The Act covers farmers with landholdings of 8 hectares or less, who are exempted from paying irrigation service fees for water der...

Read More By Congressman Christopher “Toff” V.P. de Venecia
16 January

RA10968: AN ACT INSTITUTIONALIZING THE PHILIPPINE QUALIFICATIONS FRAMEWORK (PQF), ESTABLISHING THE PQF-NATIONAL COORDINATING COUNCIL (NCC) AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR

Republic Act (RA) 10968, enacted on January 16, 2018, institutionalizes the Philippine Qualifications Framework (PQF). The PQF is a national system for the development, recognition, and award of qualifications based on standards of knowledge, skills, and values acquired in different ways and methods by learners and workers of the country. Highlight of RA 10968 RA 10968 provides a standardized framework for recognizing qualifications, supporting the mobility of Filipino students and workers both domestically and internationally....

Read More By Congressman Christopher “Toff” V.P. de Venecia
28 December

RA10966: AN ACT DECLARING DECEMBER 8 OF EVERY YEAR A SPECIAL NONWORKING HOLIDAY IN THE ENTIRE COUNTRY TO COMMEMORATE THE FEAST OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION OF MARY, THE PRINCIPAL PATRONESS OF THE PHILIPPINES

Republic Act No. 10966, enacted on December 28, 2017, declares December 8 of every year a special nonworking holiday in the entire country to commemorate the Feast of the Immaculate Conception of Mary, the Principal Patroness of the Philippines. The Feast of the Immaculate Conception is a significant religious observance for many Filipinos, and this declaration allows them to fully celebrate and participate in the occasion.

Read More By Congressman Christopher “Toff” V.P. de Venecia
19 December

RA10963: TAX REFORM FOR ACCELERATION AND INCLUSION (TRAIN) ACT

Republic Act No. 10963, also known as the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Act, was enacted on December 19, 2017. This law aims to make the Philippine tax system simpler, fairer, and more efficient. Highlight of RA 10963 The TRAIN Act lowers personal income tax rates for most taxpayers, providing them with more disposable income. This allows individuals to spend more, save more, or invest more, contributing to economic growth. Key Features of RA 10963 Lower Income Tax Rates: The Act reduces income t...

Read More By Congressman Christopher “Toff” V.P. de Venecia
03 August

RA10931: AN ACT PROMOTING UNIVERSAL ACCESS TO QUALITY TERTIARY EDUCATION BY PROVIDING FOR FREE TUITION AND OTHER SCHOOL FEES IN STATE UNIVERSITIES AND COLLEGES, LOCAL UNIVERSITIES AND COLLEGES AND STATE-RUN TECHNICAL-VOCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS, ESTABLISHING THE TERTI

Republic Act (RA) 10931, also known as the "Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act," was enacted on August 3, 2017. This Act aims to promote universal access to quality tertiary education by providing free tuition and other school fees in State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), Local Universities and Colleges (LUCs), and state-run Technical-Vocational Institutions (TVIs). It also establishes the Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) and Student Loan Program to assist students in financing their tertiary education. Highlight of...

Read More By Congressman Christopher “Toff” V.P. de Venecia
02 August

RA10930: AN ACT PRESCRIBING THE EXTENSION OF THE VALIDITY OF THE PROFESSIONAL AND NON-PROFESSIONAL DRIVER'S LICENSE TO FIVE YEARS

Republic Act (RA) 10930, enacted on August 2, 2017, amends the Land Transportation and Traffic Code to extend the validity period of driver's licenses and strengthen the policies regarding their issuance. Highlight of RA 10930 RA 10930 extends the validity of driver's licenses to 5 years and allows for renewal up to 10 years for drivers with no violations, providing convenience and saving time for motorists. Other Key Provisions Online Renewal: The Land Transportation Office (LTO) is mandated to create an online pro...

Read More By Congressman Christopher “Toff” V.P. de Venecia
02 August

RA10929: AN ACT ESTABLISHING THE FREE INTERNET ACCESS PROGRAM IN PUBLIC PLACES IN THE COUNTRY AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR

Republic Act (RA) 10929, enacted on August 2, 2017, establishes the Free Internet Access Program in public places across the country. The Act aims to bridge the digital divide and promote digital literacy by providing free internet access to all citizens. Highlight of RA 10929 RA 10929 provides free internet access in public places, promoting digital inclusion and enabling citizens to participate in the digital economy. This is crucial for enhancing educational opportunities, facilitating access to information, and promoting ec...

Read More By Congressman Christopher “Toff” V.P. de Venecia
14 July

RA10927: AN ACT DESIGNATING CASINOS AS COVERED PERSONS UNDER REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9160, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE "ANTI-MONEY LAUNDERING ACT OF 2001", AS AMENDED

Republic Act (RA) 10927, enacted on July 14, 2017, designates casinos as covered persons under the Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2001 (RA 9160), as amended. This means casinos are now required to comply with the requirements of the Anti-Money Laundering Act to prevent money laundering and terrorist financing activities. Highlight of RA 10927 RA 10927 strengthens the anti-money laundering framework in the Philippines by including casinos, which are considered vulnerable to money laundering activities. This helps to protect the in...

Read More By Congressman Christopher “Toff” V.P. de Venecia
15 October

RA10923: AN ACT POSTPONING THE OCTOBER 2016 BARANGAY AND SANGGUNIANG KABATAAN ELECTIONS, AMENDING FOR THE PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9164, AS AMENDED BY REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9340 AND REPUBLIC ACT NO. 10656, PRESCRIBING ADDITIONAL RULES GOVERNING THE CONDUCT OF BARANGAY

Republic Act No. 10923 postpones the October 2016 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections to the fourth Monday of October 2017. Subsequent synchronized elections for barangay and SK officials will then be held on the second Monday of May 2020 and every three years thereafter. A crucial provision for the public is that all incumbent barangay officials will remain in office in a hold-over capacity until their successors are duly elected and qualified, unless they are sooner removed or suspended for cause. The Act also stipulates that t...

Read More By Congressman Christopher “Toff” V.P. de Venecia
22 June

RA 11038: AN ACT DECLARING PROTECTED AREAS AND PROVIDING FOR THEIR MANAGEMENT, AMENDING FOR THIS PURPOSE REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7586, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE "NATIONAL INTEGRATED PROTECTED AREAS SYSTEM (NIPAS) ACT OF 1992", AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES

Republic Act (RA) 11038, enacted on June 22, 2018, amends the National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS) Act of 1992 (RA 7586) to expand the coverage of protected areas in the Philippines. The Act aims to strengthen the conservation of biodiversity and the integrity of ecosystems in the country. Highlight of RA 11038 RA 11038 expands the National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS), ensuring the conservation of a broader range of ecologically rich and unique areas in the Philippines. This is crucial for protecting...

Read More By Congressman Christopher “Toff” V.P. de Venecia