OFFICIAL DELEGATE AND

MODERATOR PRIMER

I. The Congress
II. The Organizing Team
III. The Ambassadors
IV. Conference Schedule
V. Confirmation Process
VI. Committees
VII. Rules of Procedure
VIII. Points and Motions
IX. Delegates’ Code of Conduct
X. PMC 2019 Bill Procedure
XI. FAQs
The legacy of redefining the role of the Filipino Youth continues.

For the past seven years, the Philippine Model Congress (PMC) has worked to provide an avenue
for youth leaders from all over the Philippines to come together in the country's premier legislative
simulation.
As a model of the Philippine government’s legislative process, participants will simulate
congressional debates, engage in workshops, and learn from transformative guest speakers. The
conference hopes to give delegates the opportunity to share what matters to them.

Bills passed are presented to the actual Philippine Senate and House of Representatives. In doing
so, PMC aims to give the youth an opportunity to be heard by our country’s leaders, increase
awareness to national issues, and create a community of young people committed to nation
building.

Modeled after conferences hosted by Harvard, Yale, Princeton, and other international universities,
the Philippine Model Congress is a collaborative effort by Filipino college students from various
universities. The inaugural PMC was started in 2012 by Leandro Leviste, Lance Katigbak, Tricia
Peralta, Thomas Rosal, and Alonzo Virata. In 2013, Raffy Tanpho joined the Executive Board. In
2014, Sean Angsanto and Angelo Santiago, two students from De La Salle University, took over
with their organizing team to re-organize the conference. From 2016 to 2017, Bianca Suarez, a
graduate student also from De La Salle University, resumed the responsibilities of Executive
Director and led the preparations of the conference. In 2018, Sean Chiong Ajihil, a recent graduate
from De La Salle University, was given the title of Executive Director, and the opportunity to take
PMC to even greater heights.

This year, 2019, Angeli Alyssa Andan, a graduating student from De La Salle University, is
continuing the legacy as the Executive Director of the Philippine Model Congress. Grounded by
values and driven by purpose, she is more than ready to go beyond the limits, and make a bigger
and better PMC.
 WHO ARE WE
The Philippine Model Congress is organized by a group of purpose-driven student leaders
from different universities who envision a progressive Philippines and aim to make a difference
by maximizing the potential of the Filipino Youth through empowerment and civic movement.

MISSION
To strengthen the voice of the Filipino Youth, to instill Political Awareness and Civic
Movement among Filipino Youth and to build a community of Filipino Youth who are positive
invested in the Country’s future.

VISION
To be the premier legislative simulation of the Philippines where the Filipino Youth are
inspired to take an active role in nation building and shaping the national agenda.

What is the PMC?

PMC is a National Youth Congress that brings together the best Youth Leaders from
diverse backgrounds which aims to give the youth an opportunity to band together and unitedly
propose a stand to congress on what matters to them, and in doing so, be heard by our country’s
leaders, increase awareness on national issues, and create a community of young people
committed to nation building.

The Participants
The Philippine Model Congress will be attended by outstanding Filipino High School ,
College Students and Professionals from different parts of the country and they will each
represent their respective regions.

The Venue
The Philippine Model Congress will be held on September 7 and 8, 2019 in the
Committee Halls of the Senate of the Philippines located in the Second Floor, Right Wing of
the GSIS Building in Pasay City. The venue is where the Senators conduct official committee
meetings and are rarely used for public events.
II. The Organizing Team

The Philippine Model Congress is organized by a group of purpose-driven student leaders

from different universities who envision a progressive Philippines and aim to make a difference
by maximizing the potential of the Filipino Youth through empowerment and civic involvement.

The Organizing Team is composed of eight (8) different committees: Congress Operations,
Delegate Relations, Digital Content, External Relations, Finance, Marketing, Media and Publicity,
and Logistics.

EXECUTIVE BOARD

Angeli Alyssa S. Andan

Executive Director

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

CONGRESS OPERATIONS
Bryan Ezra Gonzales
Patricia Torres

DELEGATE RELATIONS
Emmanuel M. Osit

DIGITAL CONTENT
Richard Lance G. Parayno

EXTERNAL RELATIONS
Gene Lloyd B. Torres

FINANCE
Kevin H. Wu
Ma. Raina Philline V. Canilang

MARKETING
Benedict L. Rosario
Nikolas Tobias P. Banzuela

MEDIA AND PUBLICITY

Edward C. Go
Eña Micah C. Dela Cruz
Marian Gabrielle C. Matias
Samantha Maxine R. Santos

LOGISTICS
John Jeffrey A. Ouyang
Kenneth Joshua V. Dy
 III. THE AMBASSADORS

The Ambassador Program was launched 3 years ago as a means for the Philippine Model
Congress (PMC) to engage and reach more Filipino youth, especially those based outside Metro
Manila. PMC Ambassadors play a vital role in the success of the congress, from the invitation and
selection of the potential delegates to upholding the ideals and aspirations of the Philippine Model
Congress inside and outside of their respective regions.

PMC Ambassadors are responsible for establishing partnerships with local organizations
to encourage a nationwide effort for youth involvement in nation building and public policy
creation.

REGION III
Devin Carl P. Sagun
Aries A. Mercado
Charles Darrell S. Calma

REGION IV-A
Jullian Wilmer F. Morabe
Jaymee Lou A. Abedania
Royce A. Calingal
Melanie Rose B. Juantala

REGION VI
Ferry Lyra B. Fronda
Christine Joy S. Dorias

REGION VII
Michael A. Berturan
REGION IX
Lemuel Ian B. Cua
 REGION XI
Zeinn Karleen A. Poncardas

REGION XII
Anthony D. Barri
Glen Niel C. Capilitan
Ghian Karlo S. Belonio

NCR
Ken M. Kubaron
Kyrah L. De Guzman
Ace D. Salut

ARMM
Hadji Sobair Nahidah Olama
IV. CONFERENCE SCHEDULE

Day 1 (September 7, 2019 - Saturday)

6:00 – 8:00 Registration
8:00 – 8:35 Opening Address
8:35 – 8:50 Question and answer portion
8:50 – 9:00 Rules and Procedure Orientation
9:00 – 9:15 Recess
9:15 – 12:00 Committee Session 1
12:00 – 13:00 Lunch
13:00 – 15:30 Committee Session 2
15:30 – 15:45 Recess
15:45 – 17:45 Committee Session 3
17:45 – 18:00 Day-end reminders

Day 2 (September 8, 2019 - Sunday)

7:00 – 8:00 Registration
8:00 – 11:00 Committee Session 4
11:00 – 12:00 Lunch
12:00 – 15:00 Plenary 1
15:00 – 15:15 Recess
15:15 – 17:00 Plenary 2
17:00 – 17:35 Closing speaker
17:35 – 17:50 Closing Remarks
17:50 – 18:20 Picture Taking
18:20 – 19:00 Certificate distribution
V. CONFIRMATION PROCESS

- STEP 1:
Deposit the indicated registration fee in your acceptance letter to any of the
following banks:
Earlybird - 800php ** May 15 - 25
Regular - 850php ** May 30 - June 8
Observer/Faculty - 500php

Bank: Banco de Oro (BDO)

Account Name: Kevin Wu
Account Number: 000120207818

or

Bank: Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI)

Account Name: Ma. Raina Philline V. Canilang
Account Number: 6016317053

*Take a photo of the deposit slip

- STEP 2:
Fill up the confirmation form - bit.ly/PMC2019-DelegateConfirmation

- STEP 3:
Wait for an email from the finance team to confirm the receipt of the deposit. It
should come within three (3) business days. If you have not received anything after
3 days, you may contact the finance team via email -
finance@thephilippinemodelcongress.org

*Deadline for confirmation: May 25, 2019 – Earlybird

June 8, 2019 - Regular
VI. Committees

Government Reorganization
All matters directly and principally relating to the reorganization of the government or
any of its branches, departments and instrumentalities, excluding government-owned or
controlled corporations, and the creation, abolition or change of the principal functions or
nature of any government department, agency, commission or board

National Defense and Security

All matters directly and principally relating to national defense and national security, the
Armed Forces of the Philippines, citizens army, selective services, forts and arsenals,
military bases, reservations and yards, coast and geodetic surveys.

Suffrage and Electoral Reforms

All matters directly and principally relating to the protection and advancement of the right
of suffrage and the conduct of elections, plebiscites, initiatives, recalls & referenda

Trade and Industry

All matters directly and principally relating to domestic and foreign trade, intellectual
property rights, patents, trade names and trade marks, standards, weights and measures,
designs, quality control, consumer protection, prices and marketing of commodities,
handicrafts and cottage industries, and the development, regulation and diversification of
industry and investments.

Transportation
All matters directly and principally relating to land, sea, and air transportation and all
public utilities and services connected thereto, as well as the establishment, operation,
management and regulation of airports, seaports and other mass transportation systems
including light and heavy rail systems and roll on - roll off systems (RO-RO),civil aviation,
air transport agreements, transportation safety standards, air transport security, maritime
security, ballast water management, ship financing, ship mortgage, maritime liens and
transportation related insurance.
VII. Rules of Procedure

The Rules of Procedure shall be the sole guide for all proceedings in floor sessions for the
Philippine Model Congress (PMC) 2019.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Speaker of the House. The plenary session shall be presided over by the Speaker of the House.
The Speaker of the House has the responsibility of opening and adjourning the Conference. The
Chairs shall act as Deputy Speakers. Thus, during the absence of the Speaker of the House, one
of the Chairs will preside over the plenary session. It is not in the role of the Speaker of the House,
or any presiding member, to vote in any matter unless their vote is necessary to break a tie.

The Moderating Board. The committee sessions shall be presided over by the Moderating Board.
The Moderating Board is composed of the Chair, as the main presider, and the Vice-Chair and
Rapporteur, as assistants to the Chair. The PMC organizing committee shall assign the members
of the Moderating Board.

● THE CHAIR shall have absolute authority in the order of the proceedings of committee
sessions and shall be given full discretion in the interpretation of the ROP. During
committee sessions, the Chair shall be familiar with the ROP, direct the proceedings and
maintain order as guided by the ROP, which shall include the organization of the floor
session agenda, recognition of the speakers, approval and evaluation of suggested motions
and points. The Chair is also responsible for keeping the debate within the time limit and
directing the discussion for better deliberation
● THE VICE CHAIR shall assist the Chair by giving suggestions in order of the
proceedings, consolidating arguments on the legislation in discussion, acting as a validating
authority of questionable data and statistics used in debate, standing as substitute in the
absence of the Chair, and in other functions as deemed necessary.
● THE RAPPORTEUR shall be responsible for all the secretariat and documentary
functions of the moderating board which shall specifically be keeping track of the time
limits set during debate, summarizing discussions during debate, preparing the
congressional journal, and in other functions as deemed necessary.
The Delegates are individuals that have been accepted as the primary participating members of
the PMC. They shall simulate the legislation process, acting as pseudo-members of the Philippine
House of Representatives. The delegate will be able to compose legislations, participate in formal
debate guided by parliamentary procedure, engage in both committee and plenary session set-ups,
and vote on motions and legislations as an acknowledged member of the congress. Each delegate
is assigned to a congressional district for the discussion of legislations. During floor sessions and
in speeches, the delegate is required to take into consideration the socio-economic, cultural, and
political stand and condition of the congressional district, which they represent. All delegates are
expected to be professional and courteous at all times and are subject to disciplinary action by the
Chair or the members of the PMC Organizing Team if proven otherwise. Each delegate is expected
to be present throughout the entire duration of the conference, especially during committee and
plenary sessions, unless otherwise excused.

THE FLOOR SESSION

Committee and Plenary Sessions. The floor sessions in the PMC are categorized into two (2):
committee sessions, in attendance of a partition of the PMC delegation, and plenary sessions, in
attendance of the whole PMC delegation. Committee sessions shall be presented with three (3) to
five (5) legislations for discussion and voted on for approval by the committee. Only one (1)
legislation from each committee shall proceed for discussion and final approval of the whole PMC
delegation. Legislations that have been passed in the plenary are considered approved and shall be
forwarded to the PMC Organizing Team for submission to the Philippine Congress.

Roll Call and Quorum. Before the start of a session, a roll call shall be initiated. All floor sessions
shall be opened once two-thirds (⅔) of the expected number of delegates are present, which
constitutes a quorum, and no debate, motions or vote shall be in order in the absence of a quorum.
The required number to establish a simple majority and the two-thirds (⅔) majority count shall be
declared at the start of the session based on the delegates present. Late delegates should pass a note
to the Chair as a notice of their attendance. The Chair shall adjust and declare the simple majority
and the two-thirds (⅔) majority count accordingly.
Agenda. Upon the opening of the committee session, the agenda, or the order of legislations, shall
be presented by the Chair to the delegation. The agenda can be motioned for amendments and
approval by any delegate. Once the agenda is approved, the Chair shall open the discussion and
debate of the legislations in order. During the committee sessions, the Chair can add bills into the
agenda if time permits.

Debate Decorum and Procedure. The debate shall be separated into three (3) segments:
Introduction of Legislation, Structured debate, and General Debate. Delegates must first be
recognized by the Chair by raising their placards once the floor has been opened. No raising of
placards shall occur during speeches. Any delegate recognized for debate is entitled to the floor
for the allotted speaking time, and shall be open for points of information thereon after. There will
be a maximum of two (2) points of information per speech. Afterwards, the delegate is expected
to yield the floor to the Chair. However, the speaker may opt to receive zero or only one (1) point
of Information. Procedure in yielding can be found in the Yielding Section. The Speaker of the
House is to be addressed as “Mister/Madame Speaker,” whereas the Chairs are to be referred to as
“the Representative from [District]” or “the Delegate from [District]” or as “the Honorable
Delegate” - all members of the committees shall be referred to in the third person. Any remarks
must be confined to the pending legislation. Personal remarks must not enter into debate. There
shall be no direct dialogue between delegates during formal session, but delegates may pass notes
to communicate with other members of their committee, be it a Chair, a fellow delegate, or a
member of the Organizing Team. There are more guidelines to the procedures of note passing in
the Note Passing Section.

Privilege Hour. A set amount of time will be allotted for delegates to deliver a short speech,
otherwise known as a Privilege Speech, on an Important issue in their respective districts or on
any subject of national interest. The Privilege Hour will be held during the first committee session
on the first day of the Conference. During Privilege Speeches, delegates are not required to yield
to interpellations, but they must not use any improper language in conformity with the decorum
and dignity of the committee session. The member cannot be deprived of the floor except with
their consent, and may deliver their speech in such manner as they please as long as they speak
with due decorum. Throughout the duration of the privilege hour, a member should refrain from
making personal allusions to any other member. Should a speaker yield to further interpellation,
they cannot be interrupted except by a point of order. Each speaker will be allotted five (5) minutes
to deliver their speech, and should time permit, may answer any questions proceeding.

Introduction of Legislation. The Introduction of Legislation shall be immediately in order once

the legislation is opened for debate. The Introduction of Legislation shall be opened by a speech
from the proponent of the bill to discuss the rationale and details of the proposed legislation or
amendment. The introductory speech can last up to (5) minutes. After a proponent speaks for the
legislation in discussion, the proponent shall be open for point of information from the body for
up to five (5) minutes.

Structured Debate. Structured Debate shall immediately be in order once the Chair closes the
introduction of legislation or approves a motion for amendment. The Chair shall recognize two (2)
speeches for and two (2) speeches against the legislation or amendment. Each speech can last up
to four (4) minutes. If time permits, the speakers may answer a maximum of two (2) questions
each during this portion. The Chair shall close structured debate after the fourth speech. Although
the Chair will open the floor for points and motions in between speeches, no amendments may be
proposed during this time.

General Debate. General debate shall immediately be in order once the Chair closes the structured
debate and opens the Speakers List. Speeches in general debate are limited to two (2) minutes each
and are not restricted to any particular viewpoint. Speeches may be used to, but are not limited to,
introduce arguments, respond to previous arguments, and speak for or against any legislation.
During this time, delegates may also suggest motions and amendments. The order of speakers for
the General Debate shall be guided by the Speakers List. Delegates will raise their placards in
order to be acknowledged by the Chairs to be included in the Speakers list. Should a delegate wish
to be included in the Speakers List after the initial call for speakers, they may pass a note to their
Chair, or the Chair may ask again for additions to the Speakers List in between speeches.

Amendments. Amendments are initiated by a motion for style amendment or a motion for a
substance amendment. Style amendments shall pertain to a proposal for a change in format,
spelling, semantics, and grammar of provisions in the legislation in discussion. Delegates
motioning a style amendment must write down the amendment on the amendment slip. After
which, they will pass the slip to the Chair, which will not be debatable and will automatically be
approved if it is deemed correct. A substance amendment shall pertain to a proposal for a
significant change in policies, procedures, responsibilities, or any important content of the
legislation in discussion. Consideration of a substance amendment is limited to fifteen (15)
minutes. Primary substance agreements can be subject to style amendments. The specific time
considerations can be limited and extended through a motion. To motion for substance amendment,
the delegates must write down the amendment on the amendment slip which will be passed to the
Chair. The Chair will ask if the amendment is amenable to the proponents of the bill, it will be
considered friendly and will be automatically passed without a vote. If the amendment is not
accepted by the proponents of the bill, it will be considered unfriendly and the floor will
consequently be open for a General Debate on the amendment only with a separate Speakers List.
After the allotted time has elapsed, a motion for voting procedure will be in order.

Legislation Time Limits. The total time for consideration of a bill or resolution is forty-five (45)
minutes. After this time has elapsed, the Chair will put the main motion, together with any other
motion which may be pending, to a vote. The debate may be closed, by a motion to move to voting
procedure; extended, by a motion to extend debate; or limited, by a motion to limit debate. The
maximum amount of time allowed for extension is fifteen (15) minutes. If the committee wants to
discuss the bill further, it may be laid on the table and later taken from the table if time permits.

Voting. No debate is in order during a vote, and no motions may be made except points in relation
to the vote. Absentees are not counted and abstentions are not permitted in votes for motions except
for votes for the approval or disapproval of the legislation under discussion. A motion passes only
if a majority of the delegates voting do so in the affirmative; tied motions, are decided upon by the
Chair. All procedural votes will be done via placard, however the options of voting for legislations
and amendments are as follows:

● ROLL CALL: lf this manner of voting is adopted, each delegate will be asked to state
whether they are in favor, by saying aye, or against, by saying nay.
● ACCLAMATION: If this manner of voting is adopted, the delegates will be asked to state
whether they are in favor, by simultaneously saying aye, or against, by simultaneously
saying nay.
 ● RAISE OF PLACARDS: If this manner of voting is adopted, all delegates will be asked
to simultaneously raise their placards when asked if they are in favor of or against the
legislation or amendment.

Note Passing. Given that no direct communication shall be allowed during floor sessions, unless
motioned upon, communication through note passing is allowed. Delegates are permitted to pass
notes to any member of their committee, including other delegates and the Chair and his
Secretariat. All notes are first screened by the Chair before being passed. In order to pass a note,
the delegate shall raise their hand with the note in hand, and a member of the committee's assigned
Congressional staff shall approach the delegate. Issues about the room temperature, lighting,
speaking volume, etc. may be brought to attention to the chair via note passing. All notes should
indicate the sender and intended receiver.
VIII. Points and Motions

Motions
● MOTION TO ADJOURN: If this motion is adopted, the floor session is concluded. It is
in order only at the end of the Conference. This motion is decided by a two-thirds (⅔) vote.
● MOTION TO RECESS: If this motion is adopted, a motion to Recess suspends the
meeting of the committee or plenary. A time for resumption of the meeting must be
specified. The motion is decided by a majority vote.
● MOTION TO LAY ON THE TABLE: If the motion is adopted, debate on the pending
legislation is suspended. Debate may be resumed if a motion to TAKE FROM THE
TABLE is adopted by majority vote. The motion is decided by a two-thirds (⅔) vote.
● MOTION TO EXTEND DEBATE: If this motion is adopted, this motion changes the
time limits of debate on a bill, resolution, or amendment. Delegates must specify the
amount of time for extension. Debate may be extended for no more than fifteen (15)
minutes at a time. The motion is decided by a two-thirds (⅔) vote.
● MOTION TO MOVE TO VOTING PROCEDURES: If this motion is raised, the
delegate must declare their preferred manner of voting: (1) Roll call, (2) Acclamation, or
(3) Raising of Placards. If this motion is adopted, debate immediately closes on the pending
bill, resolution, or amendment and moves the committee to voting procedures to approve
or order.
● MOTION TO DIVIDE THE QUESTION: If this motion is adopted, the delegation will
be made to vote on the approval of different sections of the legislation. The individual
sections are voted upon separately. Those sections that are adopted become the new bill,
which is then voted upon as a whole. The motion is decided by majority vote.
● MOTION FOR STYLE AMENDMENT: The format, spelling, semantics, and grammar
of provisions in the legislation in discussion may be altered by passage of this motion. This
motion may be introduced during General Debate. If this motion is deemed correct, it will
automatically be adopted.
● MOTION FOR SUBSTANCE AMENDMENT: Specific provisions regarding policies,
procedures, responsibilities or any significant content in the legislation in discussion may
be altered by passage of this motion. This motion may be introduced during General
Debate. Substance amendments may take two (2) forms: 1) It is deemed friendly if the
amendment was approved by the proponents of the bill, and 2) Unfriendly if the
 amendment was not approved by the proponents of the bill. If deemed unfriendly, the
General Debate for unfriendly amendments shall automatically be in order and will be
guided by the provisions in the Amendments Section. If this motion carries, the substance
amendment is discussed and voted upon by the majority before resuming consideration of
the bill or resolution in question.
● MOTION FOR A CAUCUS: If this motion is adopted, the ROP is suspended and a
caucus is initiated. A time for the caucus must be specified which cannot exceed more than
fifteen (15) minutes. Delegates are permitted to leave their seats during this time and may
speak freely in order to discuss substantive matters of their committees. Delegates will not
be permitted to leave the assigned committee area during a caucus. The motion is decided
by a majority vote.

Points. Points are non-debatable concerns that are raised by a delegate. They do not require a
second, and the Chair recognizes and decides if the point is in order. The points recognized by the
PMC shall be as follows:

● POINT OF INFORMATION: If the point is recognized, a delegate may rise to ask a

question relating to the Committee’s business, excluding parliamentary issues. Points of
information are strictly factual questions concerning the main motion or amendment and
are addressed to speakers. The Points of Information shall be given one (1) minute to be
expressed and one (1) minute to be responded to. This is in order after speeches.
● POINT OF PARLIAMENTARY INQUIRY: If this point is recognized, a question
concerning the ROP may be posed to the Chair. This can be suggested at any time, but
cannot interrupt a speech.
● POINT OF ORDER: If this point is recognized, a delegate may express that a violation
of the Rules of Procedure has occurred. If the Chair finds this Point well-taken, the situation
will be quickly resolved. This can be suggested at any time, but cannot interrupt a speech.
● POINT OF PRIVILEGE: A Point of Privilege may be made when the rights and
privileges of a member of the PMC have been violated. If the Point is appropriate, the Chair
will undertake corrective measures. Points of Parliamentary Privilege are commonly called
for in only two (2) situations: first, when a delegate slanders another or, second, when a
delegate grossly misrepresents their position while speaking.
POINTS AND SECOND VOTE NOTE
MOTIONS BY
PRECEDENCE

POINT OF NO CHAIR Used for and only

PRIVILEGE when a delegate
slanders another or
grossly misrepresent
their position while
speaking or due to
physical discomfort

POINT OF ORDER NO CHAIR Used if a delegate

believes a rule is
being/has been
broken

POINT OF NO CHAIR Used to ask a

PARLIAMENTAR question about how
Y INQUIRY parliamentary
procedure is/will be
applied to a situation

POINT OF NO CHAIR Used to ask for the

INFORMATION speaker’s opinion on
the topic of
discussion after they
have yielded to
questions

MOTION FOR A YES MAJORITY Used to permit a short

CAUCUS period of time to
informally discuss the
bill under
consideration
amongst delegates

MOTION FOR NO NONE Used for amending

STYLE format, spelling,
AMENDMENT semantics, and
grammar of
provisions in the
legislation

MOTION FOR YES MAJORITY Used for amending

SUBSTANCE provisions regarding
AMENDMENT policies, procedures,
responsibilities, and
content in the
legislation

MOTION TO LAY YES 2/3RDS Used to postpone

ON THE TABLE further discussion and
any possible vote

MOTION TO YES MAJORITY Used to split the

DIVIDE A pending question (e.g.
QUESTION a bill) into several
parts to be voted on
separately

MOTION TO YES 2/3RDS Used to extend debate

EXTEND DEBATE time on a motion by a
maximum of fifteen
(15) minutes

MOTION TO YES 2/3RDS Used to close debate

MOVE TO and vote on a motion
VOTING
PROCEDURES

MOTION TO YES MAJORITY Used to pause a

RECESS session

MOTION TO YES CHAIR Used to end session,

ADJOURN only applicable at the
end of the conference
IX. Delegate’s Code of Conduct

Delegates are expected to comply with the Philippine Model Congress Delegates’ Code
of Conduct throughout the duration of the two-day event.

More so, delegates are expected to:

● Maintain professionalism, courteousness, and proper decorum while lining up for

registration and snacks, listening to talks, interacting with dignified speakers,
fellow delegates, organizers, and employees in the Philippine Senate Hall.
● Give full attention and actively participate in committee sessions, talks, and open
fora.
● Show respect towards others’ opinions and ideas, despite possible conflicts with
personal judgement.
● Impart his/her own insights in collaboration avenues provided in the program.
● Wear his/her Identification Card (ID) at all times throughout the event
● Be responsible for own possessions and to guard personal belongings at all times

DRESS CODE POLICY

Delegates are expected to attend the two-day Congress in attires manifesting decency and
professionalism.

Standard delegate attire for the conference is professional or formal attire. Women must
wear blouses and skirts, pantsuits, baro’t sayas or smart casual dresses. Men must wear
long-sleeved polo, slacks, barong, or coat and tie. Wearing of the following in the event
is prohibited:
● Slippers
● Sandos
● Shorts
● Hats/Bonnets
● Sunglasses
In terms of ATTENDANCE, delegates are:
● Required to be present on both Congress days and in all committee sessions and
talks; failure to register and attend in any of the event days shall be deemed as
withdrawal of participation in the event of the delegate.
● Expected to be punctual as the program will be strictly followed
● For necessary circumstances that require going out of committee rooms or the
Philippine Senate Hall, delegates must ask for PMC stamps from the Registration
table before proceeding for security purposes.

PROHIBITIONS IN THE CONGRESS

● Disruptive noise and rowdy behavior inside the Philippine Senate Hall
● Attending the event while intoxicated with alcohol or illicit drugs
● Bringing in of alcoholic beverages, sharp and deadly weapons, and illicit drugs
● Eating inside the committee rooms and Plenary Hall
● Wearing of clothes that expose excessive bare skin and undergarments
● Unpermitted leaving or entering of the premises of the Philippine Senate Hall
● Vandalism on the Philippine Senate Hall properties

Observations of any misbehavior must be reported immediately to any of the Philippine

Model Congress Team or Philippine Senate Hall staff.
X. PMC 2019 Bill Procedure

1. Accepted delegates will be given one month to write their proposed bills and to submit
them to the Executive Board. Bill applications will close at 11:59PM on July 3, 2019.
Delegates may work together in coming up with bills.
2. Download the Regular Bill Application Kit here: bit.ly/PMC2019-RegularBillApps
Upon accomplishing the bill, send in your applications to the following:
bryan.g@thephilippinemodelcongress.org
patricia.t@thephilippinemodelcongress.org
secretariat@thephilippinemodelcongress.org
File Name: RB_Surname_ShortBillTitle
Email Subject Name: RB_Surname_LongBillTitle
3. Bills will be pre-screened based on the following standards:
4. Delegates must also provide a briefer alongside the bill that must contain relevant, updated
facts or statistics about their chosen problem. It should not be longer than one page.
5. All accepted priority bills and regular bills will be uploaded in each proponents’ respective
committee groups two (2) weeks prior to the Conference.
6. Delegates have approximately two (2) weeks to gather support for their proposed bill from
their respective committee groups. Revisions for the submitted bill prior to the Conference
is prohibited, however, amendments may be passed during the Conference itself.
7. During the actual Model Congress, delegates must bring five (5) hard copies of their bill
for the committee chairs, as well as a soft copy on a flash drive or CD. The soft copy will
be shown via LCD projector during the committee session.

HOW TO WRITE A BILL

(CREDIT: Some sections modified from Harvard Model Congress 2012: Guide to Congress. N.B.)
Together with this primer, a sample template for bills has been provided.

A NOTE ON RESEARCH
The most important part of writing a bill is research. We expect you to scour Google, Inquirer,
Manila Bulletin, Philippine Star, Rappler, and, most importantly. the House of Representatives’
online database of past bills for more content. We will not accept pre-existing laws. You are free,
however, to draw inspiration from current bills as long as you modify them with fresh ideas.

When researching your views on a given issue, try to answer the following questions:
• What are your particular concerns?
• What are your constituent’ concerns?
• What policy proposals or resolutions do you intend to propose?
• What alternatives would you be willing to endorse?

CONSIDER PAST BILLS. You should definitely do research on what laws already exist in the
Philippines. As a simulation, you are working off those pre-existing laws. That means that you
should recognize and cite them, build off and develop them, but do not just copy+paste a pre-
existing law. Drawing on the ideas of other countries' laws is also a great legislative tool used in
the real world too. Both these steps are research tools that go beyond the extra mile and we
commend anyone who is able to go into that much detail!

NOTES ON PROPOSING A BILL

As members of the committee begin to discern their allies and draft legislation, it is important to
keep in mind the rules of bill writing. A poorly-written bill will only come under fire down the
road, so it is important for legislation to be specific and include all the necessary provisions.

BILLS ARE NOT MANDATORY. Writing a resolution is far from mandatory. In fact, most
people do not write resolutions and it works well that way. There will only be time to debate three
(3) resolutions per committee. Not only will the vast majority of participants not write resolutions,
but the majority of resolutions submitted will not be debated. That said, for delegates who write
resolutions, it will be a great way to go the extra mile, as this will be the center of debate. There
are many other ways to get involved too; you can sponsor/ support resolutions of people who have
lobbied with you. or contribute parts to a resolution a bloc is working on as it really is a
collaborative project.

XI. FAQs

What is PMC?
The Philippine Model Congress is a simulation of the Congress of the Philippines which aims to
give the Filipino youth an opportunity to band together and unitedly propose a stand to congress
on what matters to them, and in doing so, be heard by our country’s leaders, increase awareness
on national issues, and create a community of young people committed to nation-building.

2. Who is the Organizing Team?

The Philippine Model Congress is organized by a group of purpose-driven students from different
universities who envision a progressive Philippines and aim to make a difference by maximizing
the potential of the Filipino youth through empowerment and civic involvement.

3. What is a PMC Delegate?

Delegates are the main participants of the PMC comprised of outstanding Filipino high school and
college students from around the country who in turn will simulate congressional debates, connect
with fellow Filipino youth from all over the country, and learn from transformative speakers.

4. What is a PMC Moderator?

The PMC Moderating Board presides over all committee sessions. The Moderating Board is
composed of the Chair, as the main presider, and the Vice-Chair and Rapporteur who serve as
assistants to the Chair. Only previous PMC delegates are allowed to apply for the Moderating
Board and the assignment of the Moderating Board will be under the discretion of the PMC
Organizing Team.

5. What is the difference between Regular Bills and Priority Bills?

The bills in which the delegates will propose will be the main agenda of the sessions throughout
the conference. There are two (2) types of bills namely the Priority Bills and the Regular Bills.
Priority Bills are given precedence in the order of discussion whereas Regular Bills are the
succeeding agenda. Accepted delegates will be given 1 month to author their bills.

6. Are delegates required to write a bill?

Writing bills is not mandatory. However, writing a bill will serve as an avenue for proposing
solutions to local and national issues. That said, for delegates who wish to author bills, it will be a
great way to go the extra mile and to voice your advocacy, as this will be the center of the debates
and discussions during sessions.

7. How many bills can I write?

Delegates may send in any number of bills they wish to submit. However, it is under the discretion
of the Organizing Team to select which bills will be approved and discussed during committee
sessions.

8. Can I write a bill with other delegates?

Delegates who wish to do so, may co-author bills with other delegates however there must be only
1 main author of the bill. In line with that, all authors of a single bill must all be part of the same
committee.

9. How do we write a bill?

Upon receiving your acceptance letter, you will be given the PMC 2019 Primer which will include
a guideline for writing bills. Delegates may consult the members of the Organizing Team
throughout the bill writing process should they need to.

10. What can we talk about in our bills?

Bills can be in whatever nature the delegate sees fit so long as the bill abides by the given criteria.
It is highly suggested to engage yourselves in your respective communities and observe local and
national issues you believe need to be addressed.

11. Where will PMC be held?

The Philippine Model Congress will be held in the in the committee halls of the Philippine Senate
located on the second floor, right wing, of the GSIS Building in Pasay City. These are the official
rooms where senators conduct official committee meetings.

12. When will PMC be?

The Philippine Model Congress is on September 7-8, 2019.

13. Can I have an official letter sent to my school, informing them of my acceptance?
Yes! Simply inform your ambassador of your request for an “Acceptance Letter To School,”
indicating your full name as recognized by the school, the name of your institution, the address of
your institution, the name of the addressee, the position of the addressee in your institution, and
the email address of the addressee.

14. What is inclusive in the entrance/delegate fee?

A minimal fee will be charged that covers food and beverages, delegate kits and IDs, exclusive
access to the Philippine Senate Hall and the opportunity to network with, and learn from, other
youth leaders and distinguished speakers.

15. Can I have an official letter containing the breakdown of the delegate fee?
Yes! Simply inform your ambassador of your request for an “Entrance Fee Breakdown To
(me/school),” indicating your full name as recognized by the school, the name of your institution,
the address of your institution, the name of the addressee, the position of the addressee in your
institution, and the email address of the addressee.

16. Who is responsible for the travel and accommodation of the delegates?
Delegates would be responsible for their own travel and accommodations. Details regarding the
hotel partnership with PMC will be announced soon.

17. What if I can only attend one day?

Please inform your respective ambassador beforehand. However, if your absence is unexcused,
you will not be allowed to attend the second day, should you be absent on the first day. Refunds
will not be accepted.

18. What happens during floor sessions?

During the floor sessions, bills authored by the delegates will be presented for discussion and
approval by the committee, a partition of the PMC delegation, and plenary, the whole PMC
delegation. Approved bills shall be forwarded to the PMC Organizing Team for submission to the
Philippine Congress.

19. What should I do to prepare for the conference?

Prior to the conference, delegates are to author their respective bills and reach out to fellow
delegates once each committee’s Facebook Groups have been set up. Beyond that, delegates are
highly encouraged to read the final bills beforehand in order to be ready for discussions. The
Organizing Team also advises the delegates to be updates with current pressing national issues.

20. Is there a dress code?

Delegates are expected to comply with the Philippine Model Congress Delegates’ Dress Code
policy which requires delegates to attend the Congress in attires manifesting decency and
professionalism. Standard delegate attire for the conference is professional or formal attire. Details
of such will be further elaborated in the primer.

21. Minimum and maximum age limit for delegates?

The minimum age for delegates is 15 years old whereas the maximum age is 30 years old.

22. What is a PMC Ambassador?

A PMC Ambassador serves as a representative of the Philippine Model Congress in the face of
their respective regions throughout the delegate application process and until the congress itself.
Ambassadors will also serve as the delegates’ contact person for any concerns regarding PMC.
Delegates will receive the name and contact person of their respective Ambassador in their
acceptance letter.

23. What district would I be representing?

Delegates would be representing the district in which they are originally from or the district in
which they are currently residing in.

24. Can I get a refund if I withdraw my participation?

The PMC Organizing Team will not be accepting any refunds.

25. Can I apply both as a delegate and a moderator?

Applicants are only allowed to apply as either a delegate or a moderator. Only applicants who have
previously participated as a delegate in PMC may apply to be a moderator. However, those who
apply as moderator may be redirected to be a delegate instead, if they do not pass the moderator
screening process.

26. Am I allowed to join if I am no longer enrolled in or associated with any educational

institution?
Delegates may still apply so long as they comply with the age restrictions.

27. What is a privilege speech?

Prior to the start of the first committee session, delegates may opt to give a speech regarding any
specific national or local issue they believe needs to be addressed.