Journal

of the
House of Representatives
NINETEENTH CONGRESS
FIRST REGULAR SESSION
2022 - 2023

JOURNAL NO. 58
Tuesday, February 28, 2023

Prepared by the
JOURNAL SERVICE
Plenary Affairs Bureau
 JOURNAL NO. 58
Tuesday, February 28, 2023

CALL TO ORDER Castro (F.) Fariñas

Castro (J.) Fernandez
At 3:00 p.m., Deputy Speaker Raymond Celeste Ferrer (A.)
Democrito C. Mendoza called the session to order. Chan Ferrer (J.M.)
Chatto Flores
NATIONAL ANTHEM AND PRAYER Chua Fortes
Chungalao Frasco
The Members sang the National Anthem and Co (A.N.) Fresnedi
thereafter, observed a minute of silent prayer. Co (E.) Fuentebella
Co-Pilar Galeos
ROLL CALL Cojuangco (J.) Garcia (A.)
Cojuangco (M.) Garcia (D.)
Thereupon, on motion of Rep. Lianda B. Bolilia, Colada Garcia (J.A.)
there being no objection, the Chair directed the Collantes Garcia (M.A.)
Secretary General to call the Roll and the following Corvera Garcia (P.J.)
Members were present: Cruz (A.) Garcia (V.)
Cruz (R.) Gardiola
Abalos Barba Cua Garin
Abante Barbers Cuaresma Gasataya
Abunda Baronda Dagooc Gato
Acharon Barzaga Dalipe Go (E.C.)
Acidre Bascug Dalog Go (M.)
Acop Bautista Dayanghirang Golez
Adiong Bautista-Lim Daza Gomez
Advincula Benitez De Jesus Gonzaga
Agarao Bernos de Venecia Gonzales (A.)
Alba Billones Defensor Gonzales (N.)
Albano Biron Del Mar Gonzalez
Almario Bolilia Delos Santos Gorriceta
Almonte Bondoc Dimaporo (M.K.) Guico
Alonte Bongalon Dimaporo (S.A.) Guintu
Alvarez (J.) Bordado Dionisio Gullas
Alvarez (M.) Bosita Domingo Gutierrez
Alvarez (P.) Briones Duavit Hagedorn
Amante Brosas Dujali Haresco
Amatong Buhain Duterte Hataman
Ang Bulut-Begtang Dy (F.) Hernandez
Angara Bustos Dy (F.M.C.) Herrera
Aquino Cabredo Dy (I.P.) Horibata
Aquino-Magsaysay Cagas Ecleo Javier
Arbison Cajayon-Uy Emano Kho (O.)
Arenas Calderon Enverga Kho (R.)
Arrogancia Calixto Escudero Kho (W.)
Asistio Campos Espares Khonghun
Atayde Caoagdan Espina Labadlabad
Aumentado Cardema Estrella Lacson
Balindong Cari Eudela Lacson-Noel
2 19th Congress, First Regular Session
JOURNAL NO. 58 Tuesday, February 28, 2023

Lagman Pancho Tan (S.) Velasco

Lagon (D.) Panotes Tan (S.J.) Veloso-Tuazon
Lagon (S.) Pascual Tan-Tambut Vergara
Lara Peña Tanchay Verzosa
Lazatin Pimentel Tanjuatco Villa
Lee Plaza Tarriela Villafuerte (L.R.)
Legarda Pleyto Teodoro Villafuerte (M.L.)
Libanan Primicias-Agabas Teves (A.) Villanueva
Limkaichong Pumaren Teves (J.) Villar
Loyola Puno Tiangco Villaraza-Suarez
Luistro Quimbo Tieng Villarica
Lumayag Rama Tolentino Violago
Macapagal-Arroyo Recto Tulfo (J.) Yamsuan
Maceda Regencia Tulfo (R.W.) Yap (C.T.)
Madrona Revilla (B.) Tupas Yap (C.)
Magsino Revilla (R.J.) Tutor Yap (Edvic)
Malapitan Reyes Ty Yap (Eric)
Mangaoang Rillo Umali Yu (D.G.)
Maniquiz Rivera Unabia Yu (J.V.)
Manuel Robes Ungab Yulo
Marañon Rodriguez (E.) Valeriano Zamora (A.M.)
Marcoleta Rodriguez (R.) Valmayor Zamora (M.C.)
Marcos Roman Vargas Zamora (Y.M.)
Mariano-Hernandez Romero Vargas-Alfonso Zubiri
Mariño Romualdez (F.M.)
Marquez Romualdez (Y.M.) With 310 Members responding to the Call,
Martinez Romualdo the Chair declared the presence of a quorum. (See
Mastura Romulo Appendix)
Matibag Roque
Matugas Sacdalan DEFERMENT OF APPROVAL OF JOURNAL
Mendoza Sagarbarria
Mercado Sakaluran On motion of Representative Bolilia, there being
Mercado-Revilla Salceda no objection, the Body deferred the approval of the
Miguel Sali Journal of the previous session.
Momo Salimbangon
Morden Salo REFERENCE OF BUSINESS
Nava Salvame
Nisay Santos On another motion of Representative Bolilia,
Noel Saulog there being no objection, the Body proceeded to the
Nograles (J.F.F.) Silverio Reference of Business.
Nograles (M.) Singson (R.)
Nolasco Singson (R.V.) Upon direction of the Chair, the Secretary General
Oaminal Singson-Meehan read the titles of the following Bill and Resolution on
Olaso Solon First Reading as filed and Communications, which
Olivarez Suan were referred to the appropriate committees indicated
Ongchuan Suansing (H.) hereunder:
Ordanes Suansing (M.A.)
Ortega Suarez BILL ON FIRST READING
Ouano-Dizon Tallado
Padiernos Tamayo House Bill No. 7310, entitled:
Paduano Tambunting “AN ACT PROVIDING FOR MODERNIZATION
Paglas Tan (J.) FUNDINGFOR THE BOARD OF
Palma Tan (K.M.) CLAIMS (BOC), INCREASING AND
Panaligan Tan (R.M.) REORGANIZING ITS ADMINISTRATION,
19th Congress, First Regular Session
JOURNAL NO. 58 Tuesday, February 28, 2023
TO ALLEVIATE THE LIVES OF THE
VICTIMS OF VIOLENT CRIMES AND
THOSE WHO HAVE BEEN UNJUSTLY
ACCUSED AND IMPRISONED AND FOR
OTHER PURPOSES”
By Representative Romero
TO THE COMMITTEE ON JUSTICE
RESOLUTION
House Concurrent Resolution No. 10, entitled:
“CONCURRENT RESOLUTION
ESTABLISHING AND MAINTAINING
AN INTEGRATED AND SECURE
DIGITAL LEGISLATIVE MANAGEMENT
SYSTEM FOR THE CONGRESS OF THE
PHILIPPINES TO BE KNOWN AS THE
eCONGRESS”
By Representatives Romualdez (F.M.), Dalipe,
Libanan, Marcos, Romualdez (Y.M.) and
Acidre
TO THE COMMITTEE ON RULES
COMMUNICATIONS
Letter dated November 24, 2022 of Patrick
Alain T. Azanza, PhD, JD, SUC President III,
Catanduanes State University, submitting to the
House of Representatives the following financial
reports for the quarters ending June 30, 2022 and
September 30, 2022:
1. Statement of Appropriations, Allotments,
Obligations, Disbursements and Balances
(FAR No. 1);
2. Summary of Appropriations, Allotments,
Obligations, Disbursements and Balances
by Object of Expenditures (FAR No. 1-A);
3. List of Allotments and Sub-Allotments
(FAR No. 1-B);
4. Statement of Approved Budget, Utilizations,
Disbursements and Balances (FAR No. 2);
5. Summary of Approved Budget, Utilizations,
Disbursements and Balances by Object of
Expenditures (FAR No. 2-A);
6. Summary of Approved Budget, Utilizations,
Disbursements and Balances for Trust
Receipts (FAR No. 6); and
7. Statement of Allotments, Obligations and
Balances (BAR No. 4).
TO THE COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS
Letters dated January 11, 18, 25 and 30, 2023 of
Kim Robert C. De Leon, Undersecretary for
Administration and Finance, Department of
3
Transportation, transmitting to the House of
Representatives the following financial reports:
1. Monthly Report of Disbursements (FAR
No. 4), Fund Cluster 01 for the month
December 2022;
2. Monthly Report of Disbursements (FAR
No. 4), Fund Cluster 02 for the month
December 2022;
3. Monthly Report of Disbursements (FAR
No. 4), Fund Cluster 02 – Working Fund for
the month of December 2022;
4. Monthly Report of Disbursements (FAR
No. 4), Fund Cluster 01 (Revised) for the
month of December 2022;
5. Monthly Report of Disbursements (FAR
No. 4), Fund Cluster 02 (Revised) for the
month of December 2022; and
6. Quarterly Report of Revenue and Other
Receipts (FAR No. 5), as of the quarter
ending December 31, 2022.
TO THE COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS
Letter dated January 13, 2023 of Jesus Crispin C.
Remulla, Secretary, Department of Justice,
submitting to the House of Representatives a
copy of their Report on the Utilization of the
Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking
(IACAT) Confidential Funds.
TO THE COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS
Letter dated January 17, 2023 of Emmanuel G.
Herbosa, President and Chief Executive Officer,
Development Bank of the Philippines, notifying
the House of Representatives that the following
Budget and Financial Accountability Reports
(BFARs) for the quarter ending December 31,
2022 were posted on their website https://www.
dbp.ph/dbp-transparency-seal-2/:
1. Statement of Appropriations, Allotments,
Obligations, Disbursements and Balances
(FAR No. 1); and
2. Summary of Appropriations, Allotments,
Obligations, Disbursements and Balances
by Object Expenditures (FAR No. 1-A).
TO THE COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS
Letter dated January 20, 2023 of Patrick
Alain T. Azanza, PhD, JD, SUC President III,
Catanduanes State University, submitting to
the House of Representatives a copy of their
Quarterly Physical Report of Operations as of
December 31, 2022 (BAR No. 1).
TO THE COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS
4 19th Congress, First Regular Session
Letter dated January 24, 2023 of Francisco G.
Dakila, Jr., Officer-In-Charge, Bangko Sentral
ng Pilipinas (BSP), submitting to the House
of Representatives a copy of their Report to
Congress on Public Sector Foreign Borrowings
approved by the BSP in the Fourth Quarter of
2022 and the full year 2022.
TO THE COMMITTEE ON BANKS AND FINANCIAL
INTERMEDIARIES
Letter dated January 24, 2023 of Franz A. De
Leon, PhD, Director, Advanced Science and
Technology Institute, Department of Science
and Technology, submitting to the House of
Representatives copies of the following reports
as of December 31, 2022:
1. Statement of Appropriations, Allotments,
Obligations, Disbursements and Balances
(FAR No. 1);
2. Summary of Appropriations, Allotments,
Obligations, Disbursements and Balances
by Object of Expenditures (FAR No. 1-A);
3. List of Allotments and Sub-Allotments
(FAR No. 1-B);
4. Statement of Obligations, Disbursements,
Liquidations and Balances for Inter-Agency
Fund Transfers (FAR No. 1-C);
5. Aging of Unpaid Obligations (FAR No. 3);
6. Monthly Report of Disbursements (FAR
No. 4);
7. Quarterly Report of Revenue and Other
Receipts (FAR No. 5);
8. Statement of Approved Budget, Utilizations,
Disbursements and Balances for Trust
Receipts (FAR No. 6); and
9. Quarterly Physical Report of Operations
(BAR No. 1).
TO THE COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS
Letter dated February 3, 2023 of Jema D. Belza, Vice
President, Development Bank of the Philippines,
informing the House of Representatives of the
Status of Implementation of the “Barangay Micro
Business Enterprises (BMBEs) Act of 2002”.
TO THE COMMITTEE ON MICRO, SMALL AND
MEDIUM ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
COMMITTEE REPORT NO. 323
ON RESOLUTION OF BOTH HOUSES NO. 6
Whereupon, on motion of Rep. Marie
Bernadette G. Escudero , there being no objection, the
Body resumed the consideration on Second Reading
JOURNAL NO. 58 Tuesday, February 28, 2023
of Resolution of Both Houses No. 6 contained in
Committee Report No. 323 as submitted by the
Committee on Constitutional Amendments.
Upon direction of the Chair, the Secretary
General read the title of the Resolution, to wit:
“RESOLUTION OF BOTH HOUSES CALLING
FOR A CONSTITUTIONAL CONVENTION
TO PROPOSE AMENDMENTS TO, OR
REVISION OF, THE 1987 CONSTITUTION
OF THE REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES.”
Representative Escudero stated that the
parliamentary status was that the Resolution was in
the period of sponsorship and debate. On her motion,
the Chair then recognized Rep. Rufus B. Rodriguez,
chairperson of the Committee on Constitutional
Amendments, to continue his sponsorship of
Resolution of Both Houses No. 6.
REMARKS OF
REPRESENTATIVE RODRIGUEZ (R.)
Representative Rodriguez expressed that the
Committee on Constitutional Amendments is ready
to answer all interpellations in relation to Resolution
of Both Houses No. 6.
Thereupon, on motion of Representative
Escudero, the Chair recognized Rep. Edcel C.
Lagman for his interpellation.
INTERPELLATION OF
REPRESENTATIVE LAGMAN
Representative Lagman and Representative
Rodriguez (R.) discussed the three modes by which
Congress, in the exercise of its constituent power,
may amend or revise the constitution as provided
for under the 1987 Constitution. The former clarified
that Congress may do so by 1) acting as a constituent
assembly (Con-Ass), 2) calling for a constitutional
convention (Con-Con), and 3) People's Initiative by
submitting to the electorate the question of calling for
a Con-Con. While in agreement to the said modes,
Representative Rodriguez, however, differed with
Representative Lagman’s argument that Congress
must meet in a joint session to call for a Con-Con
or submit to the electorate the question of calling
for a Con-Con. The Sponsor stated that there was
no mention for such under Article XVII, Section 1
of the 1987 Constitution and that any amendment or
revision thereto only requires a three-fourths vote
of all Members of Congress with both Houses of
Congress voting separately.
19th Congress, First Regular Session
JOURNAL NO. 58 Tuesday, February 28, 2023
MOTION TO SUSPEND THE CONSIDERATION
OF RESOLUTION OF BOTH HOUSES NO. 6
As he opined that the present deliberations in the
House of Representatives is unconstitutional since it
is acting separately from the Senate, Representative
Lagman then moved to suspend the deliberations on
Resolution of Both Houses No. 6 pending the joint
session of the House and Senate.
OBJECTION OF
REPRESENTATIVE RODRIGUEZ (R.)
Representative Rodriguez objected thereto, as
he reiterated that Article XVII, Section 1 of the 1987
Constitution only requires a three-fourths vote of
all Members of Congress to amend or revise the
Constitution and that there was no mention in the
said provision that both Chambers of Congress must
meet in a joint session or vote separately. He averred
that the framers of the 1987 Constitution should have
explicitly placed such provision just as the same
was specifically mentioned in the 1935 and 1973
Constitutions.
SUSPENSION OF SESSION
The Chair suspended the session at 3:28 p.m.
upon motion of Rep. Janette L. Garin.
RESUMPTION OF SESSION
At 3:44 p.m., the session was resumed.
MOTION OF
REPRESENTATIVE LAGMAN
Recognized by the Chair, upon motion
of Representative Garin, Representative
Lagman moved to defer the consideration and
resolution of his earlier motion to suspend
deliberations on Resolution of Both Houses
No. 6 to give way to the question of privilege of
Rep. Ziaur-Rahman “Zia” Alonto Adiong.
DEFERMENT OF CONSIDERATION
OF RESOLUTION OF BOTH HOUSES NO. 6
On motion of Representative Garin, there being
no objection, the Body deferred the consideration of
Resolution of Both Houses No. 6.
SUSPENSION OF SESSION
On motion of Representative Garin, the Chair
suspended the session at 3:46 p.m.
5
RESUMPTION OF SESSION
The session resumed at 3:46 p.m.
QUESTION OF PRIVILEGE
OF REPRESENTATIVE ADIONG
Representative Adiong sought recognition
from the Chair to speak about the importance of
roads in bringing progress and development to
any province, citing in particular the 53-kilometer
national road that connects Lanao del Sur to
Bukidnon which was opened in 2016 and carried
the promise of growth and development in the
province, faster delivery and exchange of goods,
cheaper and efficient means of transportation,
facilitate trade and cultural exchange, and promote
peace and order. He expressed disappointment,
however, that the same road has been witness to
various killings including the recent attempt on the
life of his brother, Gov. Mamintal “Bombit” Alonto
Adiong Jr. He pointed out that the said incident, that
took the lives of four brave heroes who shielded the
governor’s car with their vehicle, was a senseless and
violent attack not only on the governor but also on
the people of Lanao del Sur. In recognition of their
heroism, Representative Adiong read the names of
Staff Sgt. Mohammad Jurai Adiong, Cpl. Johanie
“Aga” Sumandar, Cpl. Jalil Cosain, and Hassanor
“Kobi” Pundaodaya.
He further stated that the said road is a testament
to the success of the ongoing peace process through
the Joint Communiqué on Ad Hoc Joint Action Group
(AHJAG), an agreement between the Philippine
Government and the Moro Islamic Liberation
Front (MILF) which aims to address the criminal
activities that tend to impede the peace process,
development programs, and delivery of basic services
to the poor in the area. However, he relayed that
lawless activities still persists in the area including
illegal drug trade and the existence of drug cartels,
government clashes against fractured elements of
the Maute terrorist group, and the presence of New
People’s Army rebels which he referred to as a
mockery of the peace process. He added that the
assault on the governor could be attributed to the
uprooting of 25,000 marijuana plants earlier that
day by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in
Maguing, Lanao del Sur.
Stating that the response to the crime should
be a coordinated effort between the government
and MILF, he called for 1) a review to improve and
strengthen the country’s peace mechanisms as venues
for coordination; and 2) justice for the men who
sacrificed their lives to protect Governor Adiong.
6 19th Congress, First Regular Session
Representative Adiong also thanked various
national and local officials as well as members of
the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for their
support and dedication in seeking justice for the
victims; and expressed hope for the realization of a
peaceful and unified Lanao del Sur.
REMARKS OF THE CHAIR
On behalf of Speaker Ferdinand Martin G.
Romualdez, Deputy Speaker Mendoza condemned
the ambush and expressed sympathy for the victims
and their families.
Thereupon, on motion of Rep. Josephine Veronique
“Jaye” R. Lacson-Noel, the Chair recognized
Rep. Yasser Alonto Balindong for a manifestation.
MANIFESTATION OF
REPRESENTATIVE BALINDONG
Speaking as a native of Lanao del Sur and first
cousin of the Adiongs, Representative Balindong
expressed support for his colleague’s speech;
rued the fact that the new road built to strengthen
peace initiatives and promote progress was used
by bad elements in their nefarious activities; and
acknowledged the House leadership, some of his
colleagues, and the Marcos administration for their
swift reponse and for immediately condemning
the incident. Then thanking all who had expressed
sympathy, Representative Balindong also appealed to
the concerned government agencies to immediately
complete the investigation and place behind bars the
perpetrators of the crime.
On motion of Representative Bolilia, the Chair
thereafter recognized Rep. Jonathan Keith T. Flores
for his interpellation.
INTERPELLATION OF
REPRESENTATIVE FLORES
When Representative Flores asked for comments
on the allocation of huge sums of money to promote
peace and order in the Bangsamoro Autonomous
Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM),
Representative Adiong pointed out that the peace and
order stability in the region is a product of a political
settlement borne out of the long struggle of freedom
fighters and revolutionaries; and stated that the
BARMM transitional government wished to make the
region more conducive for investments and to open
up avenues of cooperation with neighboring areas.
JOURNAL NO. 58 Tuesday, February 28, 2023
He then asked the Body to look into improving the
peace condition in the area; and after acknowledging
that the road was shared by Representative Flores’
province and district, said that there is nothing to
add to the joint agreement but only to ensure that
the same is properly enforced and implemented on
the ground such as by improving the coordination
between local law enforcers and MILF patrollers.
Thereupon, Representative Flores joined his
colleague in condemning the incident and in asking
for a review of the peace mechanisms to maintain
peace and order in the area.
On motion of Representative Bolilia, the Chair
next recognized Rep. Raul “Boboy” C. Tupas for his
manifestation.
MANIFESTATION OF
REPRESENTATIVE TUPAS
Upon expressing support for Representative
Adiong’s call for immediate justice, on behalf of
the Committee on National Defense and Security
which he chaired, Representative Tupas cited peace-
promoting strategies of AFP through its Development
Support and Security Plan 2017-2022 known as
“Kapayapaan”, to contribute to the promotion
of peace, recognizing the primacy of the peace
process as imperative; to strictly abide with signed
agreements; to actively support for the establishment
of peaceful and conflict-resilient communities; and to
preserve peace and prevent peace-spoiling incidents.
Representative Tupas then mentioned the creation
of teams under the Ad Hoc Joint Action Guidelines
(AHJAG) on the Joint Communiqué of May 6, 2006,
which can immerse on the ground in the performance
of their mission; subsequently asked what AHJAG
has done on the case; and if Representative Adiong
still finds the Joint Communiqué relevant.
Representative Adiong, in reply, said that both
local and regional governments of Lanao del Sur
have expressed their intent to resolve the case. He
also mentioned that the BARMM government had
visited Governor Adiong and has been using all
mechanisms to pursue the peaceful implementation
of the peace process, including the deployment of
police force in the concerned area. He added that
BARMM officials committed to ensure that such
incident will not happen again. He also said that the
Joint Communiqué is not just relevant but also part of
the commitments between the National Government
and MILF; and thus stressed the need to look into
the possible lapses in the implementation of peace
19th Congress, First Regular Session
JOURNAL NO. 58 Tuesday, February 28, 2023
process mechanisms which he said was imperative
considering the recent attack to the Lanao del Sur
governor.
Thereafter, Representative Tupas expressed hope
for a speedy resolution to the case, and support for
the officials of Lanao del Sur.
REFERRAL OF SPEECH
OF REPRESENTATIVE ADIONG
Thereupon, on motion of Representative Bolilia,
there being no objection, the Body referred the speech
of Representative Adiong and the interpellation and
manifestations thereon to the Committee on Rules
for its appropriate action.
CONTINUATION OF CONSIDERATION
ON SECOND READING
OF RESOLUTION OF BOTH HOUSES NO. 6
On motion of Representative Garin, there being
no objection, the Body continued the consideration
on Second Reading of Resolution of Both Houses
No. 6 embodied in Committee Report No. 323 as
reported out by the Committee on Constitutional
Amendments, entitled:
“RESOLUTION OF BOTH HOUSES CALLING
FOR A CONSTITUTIONAL CONVENTION
TO PROPOSE AMENDMENTS TO, OR
REVISION OF, THE 1987 CONSTITUTION
OF THE REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES.”
Representative Garin stated that the parliamentary
status was that the Resolution was in the period
of sponsorship and debate, wherein there was a
pending motion of Representative Lagman which
Representative Rodriguez (R.) duly objected.
REMARKS OF
REPRESENTATIVE RODRIGUEZ (R.)
Recognized by the Chair to continue his
sponsorship on the measure upon Representative
Garin’s motion, Representative Rodriguez reiterated
his objection to the previous motion of Representative
Lagman to suspend the consideration of Resolution
of Both Houses No. 6; and suggested that said motion
be put to a vote.
REMARKS OF
REPRESENTATIVE LAGMAN
Representative Lagman stated that upon request
of Rep. Raoul Danniel A. Manuel, he had agreed to
7
further defer the resolution of his previous motion to
allow the latter to interpellate on the measure, subject
to the best discretion of the Majority Leader and the
Speaker. He also asked Representative Manuel to
confirm his request.
REMARKS OF
REPRESENTATIVE GARIN
Considering the pending resolution to the
motion of Representative Lagman, as objected to by
Representative Rodriguez (R.), which is to suspend
deliberations on Resolution of Both Houses No. 6
because he believes that the same should be discussed
by both the House and the Senate in a joint session,
Representative Garin noted that the Majority finds it
out of order to pursue consideration of the Resolution
without settling the prior motion of Representative
Lagman. She then asked Representative Rodriguez
if his previous position on the matter still sustains.
REMARKS OF
REPRESENTATIVE RODRIGUEZ (R.)
Representative Rodriguez reiterated his objection
stating that the 1987 Constitution does not state any
requirement of the House and the Senate convening
in joint session, and subsequently called for a vote
on the motion.
Before Representative Garin could respond, she
first yielded the floor to Representative Lagman.
REMARKS OF
REPRESENTATIVE LAGMAN
Before the House could vote on his motion,
Representative Lagman asked for two conditions:
1) if there was then a presence of a quorum in the
plenary hall; and 2) to be granted five minutes to
explain his motion.
REMARKS OF
REPRESENTATIVE GARIN
Representative Garin affirmed the presence
of a quorum with an attendance of 215 Members;
pointed out that the Provisional Rules of the House of
Representatives allows conduct of sessions through
electronic platforms; and moved to recognize
Representative Lagman to explain his motion.
8 19th Congress, First Regular Session
REMARKS OF
REPRESENTATIVE LAGMAN
Representative Lagman first recalled that during
the voting on the bill to postpone the barangay and
sangguniang kabataan elections where he questioned
the presence of a quorum, he was approached by
Representative Garin and the Majority Leader to
whom he yielded under the condition that the Rules
will be amended to already disallow the registration
of attendance of Members and voting via Zoom
especially on crucial issues and important measures.
Relaying that he was given the commitment
thereto, Representative Lagman then asked if the
Rules have been changed.
REMARKS OF
REPRESENTATIVE GARIN
Representative Garin reaffirmed said commitment
and said that the Rules Rewriting Committee was
already created and had conducted its initial meeting
the previous day; and clarified that the existing Rules
allowing the use of eletronic platforms in determining
the presence of a quorum still applies.
Thereafter, on her previous motion, the Chair
recognized Representative Lagman to explain his
motion.
EXPLANATION OF MOTION
OF REPRESENTATIVE LAGMAN
In explaining why the deliberations on Resolution
of Both Houses No. 6 is patently unconstitutional and
must cease immediately, Representative Lagman said
that Article XVII of the Constitution never stated that
the House of Representatives can gather singly or
separately from the Senate when Congress exercises
its constituent powers, thus, the Body must rely on
construction and precedence; stated that Congress
refers to two chambers, the House of Representatives
and the Senate, and that without any authority to meet
separately, both Houses should meet in a joint session
when exercising its constituent powers; and further
pointed out that there were two precedents where
the Constitution was amended with both Houses
convening jointly to call for a Con-Con.
He added that the requirement under Article
XVII of the Constitution that a three-fourths vote of
all the Members is necessary to amend or revise the
Constitution, and Section 3 thereof, which requires
a vote of two-thirds of all its Members to call for
a Con-Ass, are reason enough to presume that the
House and the Senate should meet as one in a joint
session. Then referring to the case of Gonzales v.
COMELEC, he opined that in the performance of
their constitutional power, Members of the House
JOURNAL NO. 58 Tuesday, February 28, 2023
and the Senate are members of a constituent body,
and therefore, must meet in a joint session and
conduct a face-to-face interaction.
Quoting extensively from Justice Vicente
Mendoza, Representative Lagman stressed that
when Congress acts as a constituent assembly, it
must meet in a joint session but vote separately.
Further quoting Justice Mendoza, Representative
Lagman said that during the framing of the 1987
Constitution that shifted the form of government to
bicameralism, changes were made in the provisions
on the Legislative and the Executive departments
to reflect that when performing non-legislative
functions, the two Houses of Congress must sit in
joint session but vote separately. However, he added,
the framers failed to amend the procedures in Article
XVII as well as the provision on the composition
of the Judicial and Bar Council which resulted to
a bicameral legislative body but with a unicameral
legislature.
After explaining the background of Article XVII,
Section 1 of the 1987 Constitution, Representative
Lagman opined that the same may be construed
as follows: 1) when Congress sits as a constituent
assembly to propose amendment of, or revisions
to, the Constitution, Congress must meet in a joint
session with the two Houses voting separately; 2) the
inclusion of the phrase “in joint session assembled”
as mentioned in the exchange between former
Commissioners Jose Suarez and Florenz D. Regalado;
and 3) the Senate and House of Representatives can
discuss matters together face to face.
REMINDER OF THE CHAIR
At this point, the Chair reminded Representative
Lagman to wind up with his explanation of his
motion.
EXPLANATION OF MOTION
OF REPRESENTATIVE LAGMAN
(Continuation)
In conclusion, Representative Lagman opined
that charter change should be passable but not easy.
He also stated that on occasions when Congress acts
as a constituent assembly, such as when deciding
whether to call for a Con-Con, Congress must meet
jointly.
DIVISION OF THE HOUSE
Thereupon, on motion of Representative Garin,
there being no objection, the Chair called for a
division of the House.
The former clarified that an Aye vote sustains
the motion of Representative Lagman to suspend
19th Congress, First Regular Session
JOURNAL NO. 58 Tuesday, February 28, 2023
the period of sponsorship and debate on Resolution
of Both Houses No. 6 while a Nay vote sustains the
objection thereto of Representative Rodriguez (R.).
VIVA VOCE VOTING ON
REPRESENTATIVE LAGMAN’S MOTION
At this point, the Chair called for a viva voce
voting on Representative Lagman’s motion; and with
the majority of Members voting against it, the same
was lost.
REMARKS OF
REPRESENTATIVE GARIN
Representative Garin asked Representative
Lagman whether he still wants to continue with his
interpellation on Resolution of Both Houses No. 6
as he still has 20 minutes left.
REMARKS OF
REPRESENTATIVE LAGMAN
Representative Lagman first stated that he
respects the result of the voting on his earlier motion,
albeit he felt that it was errant, opted to yield the floor
to Representative Manuel, and to continue with his
interpellation thereafter.
INTERPELLATION OF
REPRESENTATIVE MANUEL
Recognized by the Chair on motion of
Representative Garin, Representative Manuel
initially expressed his dismay on how the
Commission on Higher Education (CHED) allegedly
tries to undermine the capacity of the Filipino
people to understand the Philippine Constitution as
he mentioned its removal as a core subject in the
general education curriculum by virtue of CHED
Memorandum Order No. 20, series of 2013.
He then asked whether Representative
Rodriguez (R.) agrees with the essence of the
economic provisions of the Constitution which
the former cited. While the Sponsor agrees with
Sections 7, 9, 15, and 18 under Article II of the 1987
Constitution, he disagrees with Section 19 thereof
which he said should be amended as it prevents the
entry of investments into the country, thus hindering
the country’s growth towards globalization.
Further, Representative Rodriguez added that
1) if foreign direct investments (FDIs) come in, more
9
jobs will be created which will, in turn, provide
income and strengthen the purchasing power of more
Filipinos and thus help local businesses to flourish;
and 2) small and medium enterprises are also in favor
of a constitutional change to amend the economic
provisions.
Backed with international data, the two Members
debated on the importance of amending the economic
restrictions in the Constitution to allow FDIs in the
country. Representative Manuel questioned the heavy
reliance on FDIs to improve the economy when in
previous administrations which recorded high FDIs,
lack of jobs still persists and the country’s labor
export policy continues; disagreed with one of the
World Bank’s Top 10 Policy Prescription making
“regular employments more flexible” as this justifies
the contractualization of workers and only benefits
big foreign businesses; opined that some provisions
of the Constitution itself, if properly upheld and
supported by other laws and statutes, would yield
economic growth; argued that issues on the rule of
law and unfair trade practices must be addressed
in order to attract foreign investments; belied that
Con-Con is a more democratic process than Con-
Ass; and expressed concern that Con-Con would
not be different from Con-Ass as it lacks the proper
safeguards and representation of marginalized sectors
including indigenous peoples, farmers, and laborers.
At this juncture, Deputy Speaker Mendoza
relinquished the Chair to Deputy Speaker Aurelio
“Dong” D. Gonzales Jr.
For his part, Representative Rodriguez stated
that the country is lagging behind its ASEAN
neighbors in terms of FDIs which he attributed
to the restrictiveness of the Constitution; pointed
out that the Philippines is third among the most
restrictive countries in the world, and number
one in ASEAN; stated that due to restrictions in
the Constitution, foreign investors resort to using
dummy companies to invest in the country but still
remain in control of the business; said that other
Asian countries have no constitutional provisions
limiting foreign investments; and lamented that the
constitutionality of laws liberalizing airports and
telecommunications companies and the definition
and scope of public utilities in the Public Service Act
are being questioned by the Supreme Court which he
considers as stumbling blocks to foreign investments.
At this juncture, Deputy Speaker Gonzales (A.)
relinquished the Chair to Deputy Speaker Mendoza.
Representative Rodriguez also mentioned the
Supreme Court decision on the case of the Tripartite
10
Agreement for Joint Marine Seismic Undertaking
requiring Philippine ownership of at least 60 percent
and declaring all foreign exploration illegal and
unconstitutional, which he said can only be addressed
through constitutional amendments. He also cited
the study conducted by Dr. Gerardo Sicat of the
University of the Philippines School of Economics
highlighting the role of foreign investments in the
progress of any country.
Representative Manuel then opined that vital
sectors, industries, and explorations should be
maintained locally instead of relying on foreign
investments in order for the country to attain a self-
reliant economy; and presented the risk of capital
flight wherein foreign investors could withdraw and
transfer their investment during times of crisis. He
also labeled Con-Con as a Pandora’s box, which
would pave the way for provisions against the general
interest of the Filipinos.
Representative Manuel further requested that the
actual number of Members physically present and
voting on Resolution of Both Houses No. 6, both
during its Second and Third Reading adoption, be
recorded, announced, and kept. He also called on the
Body to first deliberate and adopt on Third Reading
the Resolution before tackling all other House bills
which seek to implement Con-Con.
In response to his colleague’s request on voting,
the Sponsor explained that the Provisional Rules
of the House of Representatives clearly states that
resolutions calling for constitutional amendments and
the like do not require personal presence and nominal
voting as they are treated like regular bills which
only require viva voce voting during their approval
on Second Reading but individual voting with at least
two-thirds of the total votes of Members in order to
pass the same on Third Reading.
ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF GUESTS
Upon the request of Rep. Richard I. Gomez,
DPA, the Chair acknowledged the presence in the
Session Hall of the guests of Reps. Atty. Gerville
“Jinky Bitrics” R. Luistro, Marlyn “Len” B. Alonte,
and Felimon M. Espares.
Thereafter, on motion of Rep. Keith Micah
“Atty. Mike” D.L. Tan, the Chair recognized
Representative Lagman to continue his interpellation.
19th Congress, First Regular Session
JOURNAL NO. 58 Tuesday, February 28, 2023
INTERPELLATION OF
REPRESENTATIVE LAGMAN
(Continuation)
Representatives Lagman and Rodriguez (R.)
exchanged views on the extent of authority of
Con-Con or Con-Ass in relation to the theories of
legislative control, conventional sovereignty, and
co-equality, and to which theory the Philippine
jurisdiction adhere to. The Sponsor agreed that the
Philippines falls under the conventional sovereignty
theory through Con-Con whose delegates are elected
by the Filipino people in a plebiscite. The Sponsor
also affirmed that Con-Con is an independent body
which cannot be controlled by Congress except
when providing appropriations therefor and has
the constituent plenary power of overhauling the
Constitution up to the point of proposing to change
the system of government and extend the term limits
of elected officials. He maintained, however, that the
“Whereas” clauses of Resolution of Both Houses
No. 6 clearly indicate that the focus would be
on amending the economic provisions of the
Constitution.
On Representative Lagman’s concern that the
Resolution will be pre-empted by the accompanying
bill, Representative Rodriguez assured that the said
bill would go through the same legislative process
of deliberation and approval and can be discussed
simultaneously with Resolution of Both Houses
No. 6; if the Resolution is adopted by the Body, and the
accompanying bill is rejected, the former would lose
its efficacy, and vice-versa; and the accompanying
bill is not a component of the congressional exercise
of constituent power as Congress is merely calling
for a Con-Con and not yet proposing amendments to
or revisions of the Constitution.
Referring to Article XVII of the Constitution,
Representative Lagman pointed out that proposing
amendments to, or revision of, the Constitution is not
a legislative process but an exercise of constituent
power. Representative Rodriguez clarified that the
Body is still undergoing the legislative process in
the exercise of its preliminary power to adopt a
Resolution that calls for Con-Con and that constituent
powers would only be present when Congress
converts into Con-Ass.
Representative Lagman also inquired from
the Sponsor about the status of the accompanying
measure. Representative Rodriguez ascertained it
was already filed at the Bills and Index Service but
not yet referred to his Committee.
19th Congress, First Regular Session
JOURNAL NO. 58 Tuesday, February 28, 2023
In response to Representative Lagman’s concern
on the partisanship of a Con-Con, Representative
Rodriguez assured that 1) the candidates for the Con-
Con if holding a public office is deemed resigned
upon filing of certificate of candidacy and hence,
should be non-partisan; 2) the measure does not
allow political parties to participate in the election
of delegates except for endorsements or taking a
stand; 3) the 1935 Constitution has a provision that
excludes delegates of any political party or political
organization from intervening in the election of
delegates; and 4) Con-Con would be a democratic
process and would give everyone a chance to
participate.
After sharing his experience on partisanship
of elections particularly during the time of the late
President Ferdinand Edralin Marcos, Representative
Lagman said that the non-partisan provision was
more illusory than real and manifested for the Body to
reconsider the election of delegates to the Con-Con.
He stated that he would reserve his other questions
for the companion measure, in relation to the budget
allocation and election of delegates to the Con-Con.
REMARKS OF THE CHAIR
At this point, the Chair thanked Representative
Lagman for a very interesting discussion.
TERMINATION OF PERIOD
OF SPONSORSHIP AND DEBATE
There being no further interpellations, on
motion of Representative Tan (K.M.), there being
no objection, the Body terminated the period of
sponsorship and debate on Resolution of Both
Houses No. 6; and then proceeded to the period of
amendments.
PERIOD OF AMENDMENTS
There being no committee amendments, on
successive motions of Representative Tan (K.M.),
there being no objection, the Body proceeded to
the consideration of individual amendments; and
thereafter, the Chair recognized Rep. Lorenz R.
Defensor to introduce his individual amendments.
AMENDMENTS OF
REPRESENTATIVE DEFENSOR
As proposed by Representative Defensor and
accepted by the Sponsor, there being no objection,
the Body approved to:
11
1. delete the name of Atty. Alex Lacson in the
list of authors of the measure and on page 2
thereof; and
2. insert the phrase THE ECONOMIC
PROVISIONS after the words “amendments
to” on page 2, line 12.
ADOPTION ON SECOND READING
OF RESOLUTION OF BOTH HOUSES NO. 6,
AS AMENDED
On successive motions of Representative
Tan (K.M.), there being no objection, the Body
terminated the period of amendments in the absence
of further amendments; and adopted on Second
Reading Resolution of Both Houses No. 6, as
amended, through viva voce voting.
On another motion of Representative Tan,
the Chair recognized Representative Manuel for a
manifestation.
MANIFESTATION OF
REPRESENTATIVE MANUEL
Representative Manuel said that for the sake of
transparency, the citizenry should know that during
the Body’s deliberations on the proposal to amend the
Constitution and the subsequent adoption on Second
Reading of Resolution of Both Houses No. 6, only
around 40 out of the total number of Members were
physically present. He expressed hope that in the
forthcoming deliberations thereon, more Members
can participate and join in the voting.
ADDITIONAL REFERENCE OF BUSINESS
On motion of Representative Tan (K.M.), there
being no objection, the Body proceeded to the
Additional Reference of Business.
Upon direction of the Chair, the Secretary
General read the following Committee Reports which
the Chair referred to the Committee on Rules:
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Committee Report No. 346, submitted by the
Committee on Natural Resources and the
Committee on Appropriations on H.B. No. 7322,
entitled:
“AN ACT DECLARING A PARCEL OF LAND
LOCATED IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF
NUEVA VALENCIA IN THE PROVINCE OF
GUIMARAS, A PROTECTED AREA, WITH
12
THE CATEGORY OF NATURAL PARK
UNDER THE NATIONAL INTEGRATED
PROTECTED AREAS SYSTEM, TO BE
REFERRED TO AS THE TAKLONG
AND TANDONG GROUP OF ISLANDS
NATURAL PARK, PROVIDING FOR ITS
MANAGEMENT, AND APPROPRIATING
FUNDS THEREFOR”
recommending its approval in substitution of
House Bill No. 3695
Sponsors: Representatives Nava, Barzaga and
Co (E.)
TO THE COMMITTEE ON RULES
Committee Report No. 347, submitted by the
Committee on Agriculture and Food and the
Committee on Appropriations on H.B. No. 7324,
entitled:
“AN ACT E S TA B L I S H I N G THE
PANIQUI TARLAC ECO-FARM AND
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”
recommending its approval in substitution of
House Bill No. 168
Sponsors: Representatives Enverga, Co (E.) and
Marcoleta
TO THE COMMITTEE ON RULES
Committee Report No. 348, submitted by the
Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs and
the Committee on Appropriations on H.B.
No. 7325, entitled:
“AN ACT INSTITUTING THE MAGNA CARTA
OF FILIPINO SEAFARERS”
recommending its approval in substitution of
House Bills Numbered 368, 379, 736, 1515,
1647, 1758, 2269, 2287, 3953, 4438, 4563,
5795 and 6741
Sponsors: Representatives Salo, Co (E.), Magsino,
Arenas and Gonzalez
TO THE COMMITTEE ON RULES
Committee Report No. 349, submitted by the
Committee on Information and Communications
Technology and the Committee on Appropriations
on H.B. No. 7327, entitled:
“AN ACT INSTITUTIONALIZING THE
TRANSITION OF THE GOVERNMENT
TO E-GOVERNANCE IN THE DIGITAL
AGE, CREATING FOR THE PURPOSE
THE PHILIPPINE INFOSTRUCTURE
MANAGEMENT CORPORATION AND
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR”
recommending its approval in substitution of
House Bills Numbered 3, 277, 1809, 2568,
19th Congress, First Regular Session
JOURNAL NO. 58 Tuesday, February 28, 2023
2683, 2731, 2902, 2963, 2978, 3421, 3563,
3612, 4115, 4137, 4261, 4262, 4499, 4776,
5308, 6882 and 7056
Sponsors: Representatives Almario, Benitez and
Tiangco
TO THE COMMITTEE ON RULES
Committee Report No. 350, submitted by the
Committee on Constitutional Amendments and
the Committee on Appropriations on H.B. No.
7352, entitled:
“AN ACT IMPLEMENTING RESOLUTION OF
BOTH HOUSES NO. 6 OF THE CONGRESS
OF THE PHILIPPINES CALLING FOR
A CONSTITUTIONAL CONVENTION
TO PROPOSE AMENDMENTS TO, OR
REVISION OF, THE 1987 CONSTITUTION,
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR,
AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES”
recommending its approval in substitution of House
Bills Numbered 4926, 6698, 6805 and 6920
Sponsors: Representatives Rodriguez (R.), Co (E.),
Defensor, Quimbo and Salceda
TO THE COMMITTEE ON RULES
Committee Report No. 351, submitted by the
Committee on Disaster Resilience and the
Committee on Appropriations on H.B. No. 7354,
entitled:
“AN ACT ESTABLISHING EVACUATION
CENTERS IN EVERY CITY AND
MUNICIPALITY, AND APPROPRIATING
FUNDS THEREFOR”
recommending its approval in substitution of
House Bills Numbered 16, 1091, 1714, 2256,
2542, 2773, 2826, 2940, 2995, 3047, 3466,
3498, 3774, 3778, 4145, 4233, 4381, 4685,
5109, 5152, 5158, 5185, 5211, 5758, 5856,
5906, 6019, 6734, 6892 and 7081
Sponsors: Representatives Ecleo, Adiong and
Co (E.)
TO THE COMMITTEE ON RULES
Committee Report No. 352, submitted by the
Committee on Local Government and the
Committee on Appropriations on H.B. No. 7355,
entitled:
“AN ACT ESTABLISHING THE NEGROS
ISLAND REGION, AND APPROPRIATING
FUNDS THEREFOR”
recommending its approval in substitution of
House Bills Numbered 119, 330 and 1446
Sponsors: Representatives Alvarez (M.), Co (E.),
Benitez and Ferrer (J.M.)
TO THE COMMITTEE ON RULES
19th Congress, First Regular Session
JOURNAL NO. 58 Tuesday, February 28, 2023
BUSINESS FOR THE DAY:
COMMITTEE REPORT NO. 329
ON HOUSE BILL NO. 7241
Thereupon, on motion of Representative
Tan (K.M.), there being no objection, the Body
considered on Second Reading House Bill No. 7241
contained in Committee Report No. 329 as submitted
by the Committee on Suffrage and Electoral Reforms.
As copies of the Bill had been distributed to the
Members, the Body dispensed with the reading of the
text thereof without prejudice to its insertion into the
records of the House; and upon direction of the Chair,
the Secretary General read the title of the Bill, to wit:
“AN ACT STRENGTHENING THE
PROCEDURE FOR REGISTRATION OF
VOTERS AND ADOPTING A SYSTEM OF
ONLINE REGISTRATION, AMENDING
FOR THE PURPOSE SECTIONS 2, 3,
8, 9, 10, 12, 13, 22, 23, 24, 29, 32, 33
AND 45 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8189,
OTHERWISE KNOWN AS ‘THE VOTER’S
REGISTRATION ACT OF 1996’.”
On motion of Representative Tan, the Chair
subsequently recognized Rep. Jude A. Acidre,
one of the principal authors of the measure, for his
sponsorship speech.
SPONSORSHIP SPEECH
OF REPRESENTATIVE ACIDRE
Initially, Representative Acidre stressed the
mandate of the House to protect and advance the right
of suffrage of every qualified Filipino as provided
for in the Constitution. Subsequently, he explained
that the Bill seeks to 1) ensure a continuing system
of voter registration through online registration to
encourage more people to register and make the
process in tune with technological advancements;
and 2) specify valid proofs of residence for voter
registration.
Among its provisions, he next mentioned the
ban on transfer of registration 120 days before a
regular election and 90 days before a special election
is held and that any violation thereof constitutes
an election offense; quarterly cancellation by the
election registration board of registration records of
deceased persons based on lists from the Philippine
Statistics Authority (PSA); and exemption of the
13
Commission on Elections from PSA fees for the
release of said documents.
As he said that the intentions of the measure
are noble as well as timely and responsive to the
changing times, he requested the immediate passage
thereof.
APPROVAL ON SECOND READING
OF HOUSE BILL NO. 7241
Thereafter, on successive motions of
Representative Tan (K.M.), there being no objection,
the Body terminated the period of sponsorship and
debate in the absence of interpellations; terminated
the period of amendments in the absence of committee
and individual amendments; and approved House
Bill No. 7241 on Second Reading through viva voce
voting.
SUSPENSION OF SESSION
On motion of Representative Tan (K.M.), the
Chair declared a recess at 6:36 p.m.
RESUMPTION OF SESSION
The session resumed at 6:40 p.m.
BUSINESS FOR THE DAY:
COMMITTEE REPORT NO. 342
ON HOUSE BILL NO. 7311
On motion of Representative Tan (K.M.), there
being no objection, the Body proceeded to the
consideration on Second Reading of House Bill
No. 7311 contained in Committee Report No. 342
as submitted by the Committee on Ways and Means.
As copies of the measure had been distributed to
the Members, the Body dispensed with the reading
of the text thereof without prejudice to its insertion
into the records of the House; and subsequently, upon
direction of the Chair, the Secretary General read the
title of the Resolution, to wit:
“AN ACT SETTING STANDARDS FOR
THE CONTRACTING OF LOANS AND
GRANTS WITH BILATERAL AND
MULTILATERAL PARTNERS, AMENDING
FOR THE PURPOSE SECTIONS 2, 3, 4, 7,
AND 9 OF REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8182, AS
AMENDED BY REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8555,
OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE ‘OFFICIAL
14
DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANCE ACT OF
1996’.”
Thereafter, on motion of Representative
Tan, the Chair recognized Rep. Rosanna
“Ria” V. Vergara, one of the principal authors of the
measure, for her sponsorship speech.
SPONSORSHIP SPEECH
OF REPRESENTATIVE VERGARA
Representative Vergara stated that House
Bill No. 7311 seeks to expand the country’s loan
portfolio for its development goals; and pointed out
that official development assistance (ODA), which
are bilateral and multilateral loan agreements with
concessional rates, are cheaper than borrowings from
capital markets.
Stressing the developments in the country over
time, Representative Vergara raised that the ODA
Act of 1996 has not kept up with the times, restricts
the Philippines from getting financing from OECD
member-entities, including many European countries,
and does not allow private-sector participation in
ODA loans or blending financing, which she said is
being used by the country’s neighboring competitors.
She also pointed out that the Bill will address
the country’s resistance to ODA loans due to its
loans from China; will reduce reliance on open-
market borrowings which are granted in short-term
periods and with higher rates and more stringent
requirements; and will also decrease requisite grant
components which could then encourage more ODA.
Thus, Representative Vegara said that amending
the ODA Act of 1996 is a means to maintain fiscal
sustainability and security, and to adapt to changes
in the ODA landscape.
SUSPENSION OF CONSIDERATION
ON SECOND READING
OF HOUSE BILL NO. 7311
On motion of Representative Tan (K.M.),
there being no objection, the Body suspended the
consideration on Second Reading of House Bill
No. 7311.
SUSPENSION OF SESSION
On another motion of Representative Tan (K.M.),
the Chair suspended the session at 6:49 p.m.
19th Congress, First Regular Session
JOURNAL NO. 58 Tuesday, February 28, 2023
RESUMPTION OF SESSION
The session resumed at 6:53 p.m. with Speaker
Romualdez (F.M.) presiding
OATH-TAKING OF
REPRESENTATIVE REMULLA
Thereupon, with the permission of the Chair,
Majority Leader Manuel Jose “Mannix” M. Dalipe
informed the Body that the House received a certificate
of canvass of votes and proclamation issued by the
Provincial Board of Canvassers-Commission on
Elections, stating that Mr. Crispin Diego D. Remulla
garnered the highest number of votes and won the
February 25, 2023 special elections for the Seventh
Legislative District of Cavite.
Thereupon, on motion of Majority Leader
Dalipe, there being no objection, the Body approved
the oath-taking of Honorable Remulla; and upon the
request of the Chair, Honorable Remulla, together
with his family, ascended the rostrum, and took
his oath of office before the Body, with Speaker
Romualdez (F.M.) administering the same.
SUSPENSION OF SESSION
To allow the Members to greet Representative
Remulla, the Chair suspended the session at
6:57 p.m. upon motion of Majority Leader Dalipe.
RESUMPTION OF SESSION
At 7:08 p.m., the session resumed with Deputy
Speaker Mendoza presiding.
DESIGNATION OF HOUSE PANEL
MEMBERS TO THE PHILIPPINE
CONGRESS-BANGSAMORO
PARLIAMENT FORUM
On motion of Majority Leader Dalipe, there
being no objection, the Body designated the following
Members to the House panel of the Philippine
Congress-Bangsamoro Parliament Forum:
(as chairperson)
Rep. Yasser Alonto Balindong
(as members)
Rep. Mohamad Khalid Q. Dimaporo
Rep. Ziaur-Rahman “Zia” Alonto Adiong
19th Congress, First Regular Session
JOURNAL NO. 58 Tuesday, February 28, 2023
Rep. Munir N. Arbison Jr.
Rep. Lorenz R. Defensor
SUSPENSION OF SESSION
On motion of Majority Leader Dalipe, the Chair
suspended the session at 7:08 p.m.
RESUMPTION OF SESSION
The session resumed at 7:09 p.m.
BUSINESS FOR THE DAY:
COMMITTEE REPORT NO. 330
ON HOUSE BILL NO. 7292
Thereupon, on motion of Representative
Tan (K.M.), there being no objection, the Body
considered on Second Reading House Bill No. 7292
contained in Committee Report No. 330 as submitted
by the Committee on Ways and Means.
As copies of the Bill had been distributed to the
Members, the Body dispensed with the reading of
the text thereof without prejudice to its insertion into
the records of the House; and upon the direction of
the Chair, the Secretary General read the title of the
Bill, to wit:
“AN ACT CREATING A VAT REFUND
MECHANISM FOR NON-RESIDENT
TOURISTS, ADDING FOR THE PURPOSE
A NEW SECTION 112-A TO THE
NATIONAL INTERNAL REVENUE CODE
OF 1997, AS AMENDED”
Subsequently, on another motion of
Representative Tan, the Chair recognized Rep.
Mikaela Angela B. Suansing, vice-chairperson of
the Committee on Ways and Means, to sponsor the
measure.
SPONSORSHIP SPEECH
OF REPRESENTATIVE SUANSING (M.A.)
Initially, Representative Suansing relayed how
economic activities derived from tourism were
affected by pandemic-related restrictions but cited
reports showing an increase in annual inbound
travelers in 2022.
She then stated that the proposed measure seeks
to stimulate tourism and trade by providing incentives
to tourists which will help make the country
competitive against other neighboring countries,
The Journal of the House is downloadable at www.congress.gov.ph immediately after its plenary approval.
15
boost the profitability of local businesses, increase
tourist arrivals, and contribute to the post-pandemic
recovery of the country. Thus, she sought the support
of her colleagues for the approval of said measure.
SUSPENSION OF CONSIDERATION
ON SECOND READING
OF HOUSE BILL NO. 7292
Thereupon, on motion of Representative
Tan (K.M.), there being no objection, the Body
suspended the consideration on Second Reading of
House Bill No. 7292.
ADOPTION OF
HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 10
On another motion of Representative
Tan (K.M.), there being no objection, the
Body proceeded to the consideration of House
Concurrent Resolution No. 10, entitled:
“CONCURRENT RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING
AND MAINTAINING AN INTEGRATED
AND SECURE DIGITAL LEGISLATIVE
MANAGEMENT SYSTEM FOR THE CONGRESS
OF THE PHILIPPINES TO BE KNOWN AS THE
eCONGRESS”; dispensed with the reading of the
text of the measure without prejudice to its insertion
into the records of the House as copies thereof had
been distributed to the Members; and unanimously
adopted the same.
ADJOURNMENT OF SESSION
Whereupon, on motion of Representative
Tan (K.M.), there being no objection, the Chair
declared the session adjourned until three o’clock in
the afternoon of Wednesday, March 1, 2023.
It was 7:16 p.m.
--------------------------------------------------------------
I hereby certify to the correctness of the foregoing.
REGINALD S. VELASCO
Secretary General
 (Appendix)
Congress of the Philippines
House of Representatives
Quezon City, Philippines

MEMBERS’ ATTENDANCE
Journal No. 58
Tuesday, February 28, 2023

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ALVAREZ (J.) CHUNGALAO GARCIA (D.)
ALVAREZ (M.) CO (A.N.) GARCIA (J.A.)
ALVAREZ (P.) CO (E.) GARCIA (M.A.)
AMANTE CO-PILAR GARCIA (P.J.)
AMATONG COJUANGCO (J.) GARCIA (V.)
ANG COJUANGCO (M.) GARDIOLA
ANGARA COLADA GARIN
AQUINO COLLANTES GASATAYA
AQUINO-MAGSAYSAY CORVERA GATO
ARBISON CRUZ (A.) GO (E.C.)
ARENAS CRUZ (R.) GO (M.)
ARROGANCIA CUA GOLEZ
ASISTIO CUARESMA GOMEZ
ATAYDE DAGOOC GONZAGA
AUMENTADO DALIPE GONZALES (A.)
BALINDONG DALOG GONZALES (N.)
BARBA DAYANGHIRANG GONZALEZ
BARBERS DAZA GORRICETA
BARONDA DE JESUS GUICO
BARZAGA DE VENECIA GUINTU
BASCUG DEFENSOR GULLAS
BAUTISTA DEL MAR GUTIERREZ
BAUTISTA-LIM DELOS SANTOS HAGEDORN
BENITEZ DIMAPORO (M.K.) HARESCO
BERNOS DIMAPORO (S.A.) HATAMAN
BILLONES DIONISIO HERNANDEZ
BIRON DOMINGO HERRERA
BOLILIA DUAVIT HORIBATA
BONDOC DUJALI JAVIER
BONGALON DUTERTE KHO (O.)
BORDADO DY (F.) KHO (R.)
BOSITA DY (F.M.C.) KHO (W.)
BRIONES DY (I.P.) KHONGHUN
BROSAS ECLEO LABADLABAD
BUHAIN EMANO LACSON
BULUT-BEGTANG ENVERGA LACSON-NOEL
BUSTOS ESCUDERO LAGMAN
CABREDO ESPARES LAGON (D.)
 LAGON (S.) PANCHO TAN (J.)
LARA PANOTES TAN (K.M.)
LAZATIN PASCUAL TAN (R.M.)
LEE PEÑA TAN (S.)
LEGARDA PIMENTEL TAN (S.J.)
LIBANAN PLAZA TAN-TAMBUT
LIMKAICHONG PLEYTO TANCHAY
LOYOLA PRIMICIAS-AGABAS TANJUATCO
LUISTRO PUMAREN TARRIELA
LUMAYAG PUNO TEODORO
MACAPAGAL-ARROYO QUIMBO TEVES (A.)
MACEDA RAMA TEVES (J.)
MADRONA RECTO TIANGCO
MAGSINO REGENCIA TIENG
MALAPITAN * REMULLA TOLENTINO
MANGAOANG REVILLA (B.) TULFO (J.)
MANIQUIZ REVILLA (R.J.) TULFO (R.W.)
MANUEL REYES TUPAS
MARAÑON RILLO TUTOR
MARCOLETA RIVERA TY
MARCOS ROBES UMALI
MARIANO-HERNANDEZ RODRIGUEZ (E.) UNABIA
MARIÑO RODRIGUEZ (R.) UNGAB
MARQUEZ ROMAN VALERIANO
MARTINEZ ROMERO VALMAYOR
MASTURA ROMUALDEZ (F.M.) VARGAS
MATIBAG ROMUALDEZ (Y.M.) VARGAS-ALFONSO
MATUGAS ROMUALDO VELASCO
MENDOZA ROMULO VELOSO-TUAZON
MERCADO ROQUE VERGARA
MERCADO-REVILLA SACDALAN VERZOSA
MIGUEL SAGARBARRIA VILLA
MOMO SAKALURAN VILLAFUERTE (L.R.)
MORDEN SALCEDA VILLAFUERTE (M.L.)
NAVA SALI VILLANUEVA
NISAY SALIMBANGON VILLAR
NOEL SALO VILLARAZA-SUAREZ
NOGRALES (J.F.F.) SALVAME VILLARICA
NOGRALES (M.I.) SANTOS VIOLAGO
NOLASCO SAULOG YAMSUAN
OAMINAL SILVERIO YAP (C.T.)
OLASO SINGSON (R.) YAP (C.)
OLIVAREZ SINGSON (R.V.) YAP (EDVIC)
ONGCHUAN SINGSON-MEEHAN YAP (ERIC)
ORDANES SOLON YU (D.G.)
ORTEGA SUAN YU (J.V.)
OUANO-DIZON SUANSING (H.) YULO
PADIERNOS SUANSING (M.A.) ZAMORA (A.M.)
PADUANO SUAREZ ZAMORA (M.C.)
PAGLAS TALLADO ZAMORA (Y.M.)
PALMA TAMAYO ZUBIRI
PANALIGAN TAMBUNTING
* Appeared after the Roll Call
** Section 71, Rule XI of the Rules of the House
(Attended committee meetings as authorized by the Committee on Rules/Attended meetings of the CA, HRET, or bicameral conference committees/
On official mission as approved by the Speaker)
*** Officially notified the House, through the Secretariat, of their absence
**** Absent without notice
(Subject to correction/s that may appear in the Annual Journal)
(Journal No. 58, Tuesday, February 28, 2023)