Senate holds plenary session — May 19

[0:00] presence of the quorum thank you mr president before we proceed may i just uh be allowed to uh [0:07] recognize guests from the gallery guest of senator legarda mayor mar mission of sunday [0:14] uh mr president mr president at this juncture um we would like to uh first of all put on record our [0:26] uh sincerest thanks and gratitude for the valuable contribution of our secretary general [0:33] of the senate and uh i i have seen firsthand his sacrifices and uh willingness to uh walk the extra [0:42] mile just to preserve the dignity of the institution so we just want to put that on [0:47] record at the right time i think we should honor him with a resolution yes and uh is he also the [0:52] first to be a section of both the house and the senate and uh to be fair he actually resigned [1:01] uh right away i asked him to continue and actually i'm asking him to continue in a different manner [1:10] but uh dear colleagues uh the section uh mendoza did a great service to both houses we wanted to put on [1:18] record the name is dong mendoza former congressman of the great province of batangas and with that mr [1:25] president and following the relinquishment of the position by our former secretary of the senate i [1:31] move that we proceed to the election of a new secretary of the senate so move mr president yes [1:37] uh i consulted the minority leader and because the section will also be the clerk of court of the [1:44] impeachment proceeding so there are no objections we will proceed thank you mr president mr president [1:50] in accordance to our rule two section two of the rules of the senate may i respectfully nominate [1:58] uh that the period of nominations be closed so moved mr president is there any objection hearing [2:07] none the motion is approved pursuant to the rules of the senate there being no other candidate for the [2:30] position of the position of senate secretary the voting will be viva voce those uh voting for attorney [2:38] montales please say aye the ayes have it congratulations attorney jose luis montales those those who are [2:51] again say nay okay thank you very much for the eyes have it and uh jose luis montales is hereby declared as [3:04] the proclaimed as the proclaimed as the secretary of the senate the second to have been both sec gen of [3:11] the house and the senate thank you mr president may i move for a minute suspension uh to allow our new [3:19] senate uh secretary to ascend the rostrum and take his oath so move mr president no no thank you thank you [3:27] i state your full name i say luis garcia mantales having been elected to the position of secretary of [4:10] the senate having been elected to the position of secretary of the senate do hereby solemnly swear do hereby [4:17] solemnly swear that i will well and faithfully discharge that i will well and faithfully discharge to the best of [4:23] my ability to the best of my ability the duties of my present position the duties of my present position [4:30] and of all others i may hereafter and of all others i may hereafter hold under the republic of the [4:37] philippines hold under the republic of the philippines that i will support and defend the constitution of [4:42] the philippines that i will support and defend the constitution of the philippines that i will obey the laws [4:48] that I will obey the laws, legal orders and decrees, [4:54] promulgated by the duly constituted authorities, [5:00] and maintain true faith and allegiance [5:04] to the Republic of the Philippines. [5:07] And that I impose this obligation [5:11] upon myself voluntarily [5:15] without mental reservation [5:18] or purpose of evasion. [5:21] So help me, God. [5:22] So help me, God. [5:27] Thank you, Pia. [5:41] Hearing none, the motion is approved. [6:10] Mr. President, at this juncture, [6:12] I move that we proceed with the reference of business. [6:16] So any objection? [6:17] If not, the motion is approved. [6:22] Are we ready now? [6:23] So messages from the House of Representatives. [6:26] Messages from the House of Representatives. [6:29] Letter from the House of Representatives [6:30] transmitting to the Senate 27 copies [6:33] of Committee Report No. 261 [6:36] on House Resolution No. 989 title. [6:39] Resolution setting forth the Articles of Impeachment [6:43] against Vice President Sara Z. Duterte [6:47] together with the annexes thereto [6:49] and 27 USB devices [6:52] containing file copies of the above. [6:56] Rules. [6:59] Referred to the Committee on Rules. [7:03] Letter from the House of Representatives [7:06] informing the Senate from the Bureau of Internal Revenue [7:11] relative to the impeachment proceedings [7:13] against Vice President Sara Z. Duterte. [7:16] Referred to the Committee on Rules. [7:18] Letter from the House of Representatives [7:21] informing the Senate that in accordance with Section 16, [7:23] Rule 6 of the Rules of Procedure [7:24] in the Impeachment Proceedings [7:24] of the House of Representatives, 20th Congress. [7:27] Rule 6 of the Rules of Procedure in the Impeachment Proceedings of the House of Representatives, [7:32] 20th Congress, Representatives Luis Ro, Ridon, Gutierrez, Zamora, Defensor, Diocno, Delima, [7:41] Bagao, Flores, Suan, and Chua have been elected as prosecutors in the impeachment trial against [7:48] Vice President Sara Z. Duterte. [7:51] Referred to the Committee on Rules, Acting Majority Leader. [8:05] Mr. President. [8:08] Mr. President. [8:09] The minority leader is recognized. [8:12] Mr. President. [8:13] I heard and we saw the notice, the message from the House of Representatives and you have [8:23] referred the Articles of Impeachment to the Committee on Rules. [8:26] May we know if we have already constituted the Committee on Rules? [8:31] Mr. President. [8:32] The Committee on Rules is in the acting capacity, so in accordance with Section 19, the same [8:40] members and Senator Villanueva. [8:44] Actually, for your information, Minority Leader, we were in caucus and wanted to meet also the [8:51] minority to start reading the committee chairmanships, but we thought it prudent to convene the court [8:57] first. [8:58] And then when we remove our, after we convene the court and suspend, we can go back into session [9:03] to start reading the committees. [9:06] Mr. President. [9:07] So we, I take it that right now the chairman of the Committee on Rules is in an acting capacity. [9:14] Mr. President. [9:15] Yes, Senator Villanueva. [9:16] Mr. President. [9:17] And the membership at this point would only be the ex-official members. [9:19] Mr. President. [9:20] And the members before the, all positions were declared. [9:23] Mr. President. [9:24] Hold over. [9:25] Yes. [9:26] In accordance with Section 19. [9:27] Mr. President. [9:29] Will you refresh me with Section 19, Your Honor, Mr. President, because . . . . [9:33] Mr. President. [9:34] Yes. [9:36] Yes. [9:37] And to be fair, Senator Pangilinan has a interpretation question. [9:41] That's why we referred this to the Committee on Rules. [9:43] Mr. President. [9:44] Okay. [9:45] Mr. President. [9:46] The chairman and the members of the permanent committee shall commence in the exercise of their [9:49] duties upon election. [9:51] They shall cease when their successors have been elected or designated. [9:56] So since we have not yet elected or designated their successors, except for the majority leader, our interpretation that it continues. [10:07] But Senator Pangilinan did bring up the seeming conflict that if it's all seats vacant, then it's vacant. [10:16] But then my initial statement was that you harmonize the rules, and if you harmonize it pragmatically with what's happening, then we should never have a complete vacancy. [10:30] Having said that, it is with the committee on rules, but I don't think Senator Villanueva scheduled it for hearing until we have the permanent members, just to be sure. [10:40] And we hope to start doing that this afternoon. [10:42] We will accept that for now, Mr. President. [10:44] Thank you, Minority Leader. [10:46] We make a note of the manifestation. [10:50] And I will note and recognize not only your observations today, but the observation of Senator Pangilinan. [10:58] And if we need to clarify later on, it will be a good opportunity for us to look at the rules, given the 13.9.2 present setup, unless we are overtaken by events. [11:13] Majority Leader? [11:16] Correction, Mr. President. [11:22] Correction, Mr. President. [11:25] Mr. President, 13.11. [11:27] Yeah. Well, it hasn't been corrected because Senator Subiri and Senator JV said that they are independent. But same with Senator P and I, we started out independent and then Senator Subiri asked us if for the purposes of we can join the majority. [11:50] So it's their choice if they remain minority or they join the majority, or if you can get two more members, then you will be the new majority. [12:01] Yes, Mr. President. Mr. President, may I? [12:03] Of course. Former Senate President Dubiri. [12:06] Thank you very much, Mr. President. I would like to be associated with the minority bloc, Mr. President, if I may. [12:12] Mr. President, I'd like to thank Mr. President for the trust and honor. [12:49] That I was offered to become the majority leader. But as I have mentioned to you personally, that as of this time, I would rather maintain my independence. [13:03] And with what is happening all over, I think I will be able to perform my task very well and my pet programs very well as an independent. [13:14] But again, nonetheless, Mr. President, I would like to thank you for the trust and confidence. [13:21] Being majority leader is a very, of course, it's one of the most powerful, we would say, position in the Senate. [13:30] But I guess I have, at this point, I would like to maintain my independence. [13:37] And I also understand. I also recognize that you will say that you will be our number 14. [13:43] But until the time that we vote, any member, we have to respect their decision and always ascribe good faith. [13:55] So we will continue to be good friends despite the political divisions or the nomenclature of who is in the majority or the minority. [14:03] So for the purposes of today to the future, and unless a change is made, will you be an independent or will you be with the minority? [14:13] Yes, I'll still, I'll, for now, Mr. President, I'll be with the minority. [14:19] Okay. [14:19] But again, I would like to thank you for that and for the respect. [14:24] And we will all still be friends, no matter what. [14:26] Thank you, Mr. President. [14:27] Thank you, Senator Hershito. [14:29] So the Secretariat has not noted and we can now compute the membership at a 1311 proportion [14:39] so that we do not, we're not accused of any delay. [14:46] Acting Majority Leader, what's your pleasure about the articles of impeachment? [14:51] Yes, Mr. President. [14:52] Just to put on record, as Senator JV made mention, his statement is for the purposes of proportional representation [15:00] in the membership of committees. [15:06] Also, Mr. President, Senator Luxon asked this representation to put also on record the membership [15:13] of the Senate Committee on Rules or ex-official members would have to be the new ex-official members. [15:21] So just to put that on record, Mr. President. [15:23] That's a correct observation from Senator Luxon. [15:26] Thank you. [15:27] Mr. President, with the permission of the body, the articles of impeachment have been referred [15:34] to the Committee on Rules, may I respectfully move to refer the articles of impeachment to [15:41] the impeachment court. [15:42] I so move, Mr. President. [15:43] Is there any objection? [15:45] There's no objection. [15:46] It is so referred. [15:49] Mr. President, may I move that we suspend the session to convene the impeachment court. [15:55] So move, Mr. President. [15:56] If there's no objection, we will suspend and convene the impeachment court. [16:02] Clerk of Court is directed to make the proclamation. [16:55] All persons are commanded to keep silent under pain of penalty while the Senate is sitting [17:04] in trial on the articles of impeachment against Vice President Sarah Zimmerman Duterte. [17:11] The clerk of court will please call the roll. [17:13] Roll call of members, the Honorable Senator Judges, Aquino, Cayetano Pia, De La Rosa, Ejercito, Escudero, Estrada, Gatchalian, Go, [17:30] Antiveros, Lacson, Lapid, Legarda, Marcoleta, Marcos, Padilla, Pangilinan, Soto III, Tulfo Irwin, Tulfo Rafi, Villanueva, Villar Camille, Villar Mark, Zubiri, the Senate President. [17:59] With 23 Senator Judges present, the chair declares the presence of a quorum. [18:08] Senator Judge Villanueva. [18:10] Yes, Mr. President, Sir Presiding Officer, may we request Senator Judge Camille Villar to ascend the rostrum to administer the oath of the Senate President. [19:01] Please raise your right hand. [19:03] Impeachment trial of Vice President Sarah Zimmerman Duterte. [19:07] I state your name. [19:09] I, Alan Peter Companero, Shram Cayetano, [19:13] solemnly swear [19:14] solemnly swear [19:15] that in all things appertaining to the trial of the impeachment of Vice President Sarah Zimmerman Duterte [19:22] that in all things appertaining to the trial of the impeachment of Vice President Sarah Zimmerman Duterte [19:28] now pending [19:30] now pending [19:31] I will do impartial justice according to the Constitution. [19:36] I will I will I will do impartial justice according to the Constitution and laws of the Philippines and the laws of the Philippines so help me God so help me God at this time I will administer the oath of each of the senator judges in the chamber in conformity with Article 11 section 3 paragraph 6 of the Philippine Constitution and Rule 3 of the Senate Rules of Procedure on Impeachment Trials. May we request everyone to rise. [20:03] Same. So same. So same. I state your name solemnly swear that in all things appertaining to the trial of the impeachment of Vice President Sarah Zimmerman Duterte now pending. I will do impartial justice. [20:25] According to the Constitution and the laws of the Philippines according to the Constitution and the laws of the Philippines. [21:06] So help me God. [21:07] Senator Judge Villanueva. [21:15] Thank you Mr. President. [21:18] Last Thursday, May 14, 2026, the House of Representatives through Secretary General Celoy Garrafil personally delivered to the Senate the Articles of Impeachment against Vice President Sarah Zimmerman Duterte pursuant to Article 11, Section 3, Paragraph 3 of the Constitution [21:42] and Rule 4, Section 11, and Rule 4, Section 11 of the Rules of Procedure in the Impeachment Proceedings of the House of Representatives. [21:52] Earlier today, the Articles of Impeachment were referred to the Committee on Rules and consequently to the Senate seating as an impeachment court. [22:01] Mr. President, the Articles of Impeachment against Vice President Sarah Zimmerman Duterte with its annexes are now presented to the court for proper disposition and action. [22:13] The same is duly noted and made of record. [22:23] For the record, Resolution No. 39 or the Rules of Procedure on Impeachment Trial shall continue to apply. [22:30] We further note that Rule 6 thereof which provide that the provisions of the rules of the Senate and the revised rules of court shall apply suppletorily whenever applicable. [22:42] The court having been recognized, the court having been organized, and the Articles of Impeachment having been presented, let a writ of summons be issued to the Vice President Sarah Zimmerman Duterte, [22:58] who is directed to file her answer within a non-extendable period of 10 days from receipt pursuant to Article 7 of the Rules of Procedure of Impeachment Trial. [23:10] She is directed to appear before the session hall of the Senate of the Philippines upon notice. [23:17] The Sergeant at Arms is directed to serve the written summons on Vice President Sarah Duterte along with a copy of the Articles of Impeachment. [23:25] The prosecution may file a reply within a non-extendable period of five days from receipt of the answer. [23:35] The parties may file their pleadings and annexes in person or through electronic mail. [23:42] All other pleadings, motions, similar papers intended for the consideration of this court may be filed electronically. [23:49] We will circulate the specific instructions on the format for the pleadings and manner of electronic filing for the guidance of all parties. [24:03] Mr. President, may we be clarified when you say 10 days, is that working days or calendar days? [24:13] Calendar days. [24:14] Calendar days, including the five days for the prosecution to respond. [24:21] Yes, Your Honor. [24:23] Thank you. [24:23] The Clerk of Court is hereby authorized to calendar the case for pre-trial and issue the corresponding notices to the parties after the last pleading is filed. [24:38] Upon conclusion of the pre-trial, the trial proper shall commence on a date and time fixed by the court, of which the parties shall be duly notified. [24:48] I approached members of the minority of the Senate, and later on I will approach the senator judges, that we will fix the calendar together. [25:00] And in pursuit of impartial justice, we will come up with an impeachment calendar that is fair to the prosecution and to the defense, and will allow us to continue to function in the legislative side of our work. [25:24] Any other matter? [25:25] No other matter? [25:28] The session is suspended. [25:29] The 65th session of the Senate, in the first regular session of the 20th Congress, is hereby called to order. [32:10] May we request former Senate President, Minority Leader, Senator Vicente C. Soto, to lead the chamber in prayer. [32:16] Heavenly Father, we come before you today with humble hearts, seeking your presence, your wisdom, and guidance. [32:32] In these challenging times for our nation, we ask that you shine your light upon every heart and every decision made in the service of the Filipino people. [32:45] Lord, we pray for integrity to prevail over dishonesty, for humility to overcome pride, and for truth to silence deception. [33:03] May those entrusted with leadership walk in rightlessness, accountability, and genuine concern for the common good. [33:15] Grant us the courage to do what is right, even when it is difficult. [33:21] And dear God, give us wisdom to choose what is just over what is convenient. [33:31] Protect our institutions and our nation from the influence of evil, corruption, greed, division, and selfish ambition. [33:42] Father God, guard every mind and heart against temptation, and guide all public servants to become instruments of peace, fairness, and compassion. [33:58] Dear Lord, bless our nation with leaders who fear you, honor the truth, and serve with sincerity. [34:10] Let justice, integrity, and loyalty for country and to the Constitution rise above all personal interests. [34:22] May everything we do today be guided by your wisdom and covered with your grace. [34:29] All this we ask in your holy name. Amen. [34:33] Amen. [34:34] Thank you very much, Senator Soto. [34:37] A prayer that all of us should reflect on. [34:41] Secretary, please call the roll call. [34:43] Please call the roll. [34:51] Roll call of members. [34:55] The Honorable Senator Aquino, Senator Caetano Pia, Senator De La Rosa, Senator Ejercito, Senator Escudero, [35:06] Senator Estrada, Senator Gachalian, Senator Goh, Senator Ontiveros, Senator Laxon, Senator Lapid, Senator Ligarda, Senator Marcoleta, Senator Marcos, [35:25] Senator Padilla, Senator Pangilinan, Senator Soto, Senator Tulfo Irwin, Senator Tulfo Rafi, Senator Villanueva, Senator Villar Camille, [35:42] Senator Villar Mark, Senator Zubiri, Senator President, Senate President Cayetano Alan is present. [35:53] With 22 senators present, the chair declares the presence of a quorum. [36:01] Mr. President, thank you. [36:03] Mr. President, before we proceed, may I just be allowed to respectfully acknowledge some guests from the gallery. [36:10] We have guests of our Senate President, Alan Peter Cayetano, Mayor Samiko of Pagadjan City, who's here with us. [36:18] Guests of Senator Mig Zubiri, May Kababayan, the pride of Bulacan, Mr. Juanito Torres, a well-known artist from the great town of Pulilan, Bulacan. [36:28] He's also with us. [36:30] Guests of this representation, Mr. President, Councilor Jervie Cruz of Nampiquan, Nueva Ecija. [36:37] He was the UAAP men's basketball most valuable player, Mr. President, from the UST Growling Tigers. [36:46] We welcome all of them in this August chamber, Mr. President. [36:49] Thank you for being with us today, Jirty Leader. [36:54] Thank you, Mr. President. [36:56] At this juncture, I move that we dispense with the reading of the journal of the 64th session, May 18, 2026, and consider the same as approved. [37:06] Any objection? Hearing none, the motion is approved. [37:13] Mr. President, I move that we proceed with the reference of business. [37:18] Is there any objection? [37:20] There being none, the motion is approved. [37:22] The Secretary will now read the items in the reference of business. [37:26] Bills on first reading. [37:28] Senate Bill No. 2126, an act establishing the National Measurement Institute of the Philippines and appropriating funds, therefore, by Senator Lapid. [37:36] Referred to the Committee on Science and Technology, Civil Service, Government Reorganization, and Professional Regulation, Ways and Means, and Finance. [37:50] Senate Bill No. 2127, an act extending the corporate life and expanding the powers of the Philippine International Trading Corporation, amending for the purpose PD No. 1071, otherwise known as the Revised Charter of the Philippine International Trading Corporation, by Senator Lapid. [38:07] Referred to the Committee on Government Corporation, and Public Enterprise, Trade, Commerce, Entrepreneurship, and Finance. [38:18] Resolutions, PSR 386, resolution congratulating and commending Albert Ian de los Santos for his historic gold medal performance and record-breaking fit in the men's 71-kg category at the 2026 IWF Junior World Championship in Isma, Ilya, Egypt, by Senator Lapid. [38:40] Referred to the Committee on Rules. [38:41] Resolutions, PSR 387, resolution congratulating and commending Filipina Tech leader Kat Borlongan for being honored as a Knight Shevelle Year of the National Order of Merit, Order National de Merite, by the Republic of France, by Senator Lapid. [39:06] Referred to the Committee on Rules. [39:10] Resolutions, PSR 388, resolution urging the Department of Health to strengthen food safety, sanitation, and public health measures following the discovery of drug-resistant bacteria in street-sold Palamig beverages in Tondo, Manila, by Senator Lapid. [39:24] Referred to the Committee on Rules. [39:26] Referred to the Committee on Health and Demography. [39:27] Referred to the Committee on Health and Demography. [39:28] 389, resolution congratulating and commending Tim Pilipinas and Siniende of St. Pedro Pobeda College for winning the gold medal in the Open Hip-Hop Division of the 2026 International All-Star Federation Dance Worlds Championship held in Orlando, Florida, by Senator Lapid. [39:47] Referred to the Committee on Rules. [39:49] 390, resolution urging the Land Transportation Office to conduct a comprehensive study on the implementation of programs promoting the use of reflective and high-visibility gears during nighttime to enhance road safety and prevent accidents nationwide, by Senator Lapid. [40:05] Referred to the Committee on Public Services. [40:08] 391, resolution congratulating and commending Regine Velaziz Al-Qasid for being named as the first-ever Woman of the Year by Billboard Philippines, by Senator Lapid. [40:18] Referred to the Committee on Rules. [40:21] Committee reports. [40:22] Committee report No. 63, submitted by the Committee on Local Government on House Bill No. 7554, introduced by Representatives Fresnedi and Miraflores, an act declaring December 19 of every year as a special non-working holiday in the City of Montenlupa to be known as Montenlupa Foundation Day, amending for the purpose R.A. No. 9191, otherwise known as an act declaring the first day of March of every year as a special non-working holiday in the City of Montenlupa, [40:37] to be known as the Montenlupa City Charter Day, recommending its approval without amendment, sponsor Senator Estrada. [40:57] To the calendar for ordinary business. [40:59] Committee report No. 64, submitted by the Committee on Local Government on House Bill No. 7555, introduced by Representatives Tolentino and Miraflores, an act declaring September 6 of every year as a special non-working holiday in the Municipality of Mendez Nuñez, Province of Cavite, to commemorate its founding anniversary, recommending its approval without amendment, sponsor Senator Estrada. [41:22] To the calendar for ordinary business. [41:24] Committee report No. 65, submitted by the Committee on Local Government on House Bill No. 142, introduced by Representatives Olivares and Miraflores, an act declaring February 13 of every year as a special non-working holiday in the City of Paranaque, Metro Manila, amending for the purpose R.A. No. 11460, recommending its approval without amendment, sponsor Senator Estrada. [41:45] To the calendar for ordinary business. [41:48] Committee report No. 66, submitted by the Committee on Local Government on House Bill No. 761, introduced by Representatives Matugas and Miraflores, an act declaring January 16 of every year as a special non-working holiday in the Municipality of Dapa, Province of Surigao del Norte, in celebration of the feast of its patron saint, the Holy Santo Niño, recommending its approval without amendment, sponsor Senator Estrada. [42:12] To the calendar for ordinary business. [42:16] Committee report No. 67, submitted by the Committee on Local Government on House Bill No. 762, introduced by Representatives Chan and Miraflores, an act declaring June 17 of every year as a special non-working holiday in the City of Lapu-Lapu, Province of Cebu, in commemoration of its charter anniversary, recommending its approval without amendment, sponsor Senator Estrada. [42:35] To the calendar for ordinary business. [42:37] To the calendar for ordinary business. [42:38] Committee report No. 68, submitted by the Committee on Local Government on House Bill 1510, introduced by Representatives Yuck E. et al., an act declaring July 15 of every year as a special non-working holiday in the whole Cordillera administrative region, in commemoration of its founding anniversary to be known as Cordillera Day, recommending its approval without amendment, sponsor Senator Estrada. [43:00] To the calendar for ordinary business. [43:03] To the calendar for ordinary business. [43:05] Committee report No. 69, submitted by the Committee on Local Government on House Bill No. 1538, introduced by Representatives Bolivia and Miraflores, an act declaring June 9 of every year as a special non-working holiday in the Municipality of Rosario, Province of Batangas, in celebration of its founding anniversary, recommending its approval without amendment, sponsor Senator Estrada. [43:25] To the calendar for ordinary business. [43:27] To the calendar for ordinary business. [43:28] To the calendar for ordinary business. [43:29] Committee report No. 70, submitted by the Committee on Local Government on House Bill No. 1539, introduced by Representatives Bolivia and Miraflores, an act declaring November 11 of every year as a special non-working holiday in the Municipality of Taysan, Province of Batangas, in celebration of its founding anniversary, recommending its approval without amendment, sponsor Senator Estrada. [43:49] To the calendar for ordinary business. [43:51] To the calendar for ordinary business. [43:53] Suspend. [43:55] Suspend. [43:56] Session suspended. [43:57] Ito lang, dear. [57:19] Sige. [57:20] Session is resumed. [57:23] Madam President, may, at this juncture, may we proceed with the additional reference of business? [57:31] Please proceed. [57:33] Additional reference of business. [57:35] Message from the House of Representatives. [57:37] Letter from the House of Representatives informing the Senate that on May 5, 2026, it passed the following House bills in which it requests the concurrence of the Senate. [57:56] House Bill No. 8466, an act instituting the National Land Use Policy providing the implementing mechanisms creating for the purpose the National Land Use Commission and appropriating funds, therefore. [58:09] Referred to the Committees on Sustainable Development, Goals, Innovation, Futures Thinking, and Finance. [58:15] 8467, an act strengthening and expanding the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, amending Republic Act No. 11310, otherwise known as the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program Act. [58:29] Referred to the Committees on Social Justice, Welfare and Rural Development and Finance. [58:33] 7704, an act expanding the prohibited acts of discrimination against women on account of sex amending for the purpose PD No. 442, otherwise known as the Labor Code of the Philippines, as amended. [58:46] Referred to the Committees on Labor, Employment, Human Resources Development, Women, Children, Family Relations, and Gender Equality. [58:53] 8461, an act granting the Katikbak Enterprise, San Pablo City Incorporated, a franchise to construct, install, establish, operate, and maintain radio and television stations in the Philippines. [59:05] Referred to the Committee on Public Services. [59:07] 755, an act establishing a District Office of the Land Transportation Office in the City of Sagay, Negros Occidental. [59:14] 2623, converting the Extension Office of the Land Transportation Office in Sampuanga City, Special Economic Zone, and Freeport into a District Office in appropriating funds. [59:24] Therefore, 3279, establishing a regular District Office of the Land Transportation Office in the Municipality of Viga, Province of Catanduanes in appropriating funds. [59:34] Therefore, 4477, establishing the LTO Office in the Municipality of Taytay, Province of Palawan, and appropriating funds. [59:44] Therefore, 8609, upgrading the LTO District Office in the City of Batac, Province of Ilocos, Norte, from Class D to Class C, and appropriating funds. [59:53] Therefore, 8610, expanding the registration and issuance of licenses in the Pasek District Office of the LTO, and appropriating funds. [1:00:03] Therefore, 8611, upgrading the District Office of the Land of LTO in the Municipality of Naval, Province of Biliran, from Class D to Class B, and appropriating funds. [1:00:14] Funds, therefore. [1:00:15] Refer to the Committees on Public Services and Finance. [1:00:18] 1866, establishing the Camarines Norte 1st District Engineering Office of DPWH in the Municipality of Labo, Province of Camarines Norte, renaming the existing District Engineering Office in the Municipality of Daytay as the Camarines Norte 2nd District Engineering Office in appropriating funds. [1:00:37] Therefore, 2206, creating a District Engineering Office in the 6th Legislative District of the Province of Batangas and appropriating funds. [1:00:44] Therefore, 3535, creating a District Engineering Office in the 6th Legislative District of the Province of Isabella and appropriating funds. [1:00:54] Therefore, refer to the Committees on Public Works and Finance. [1:00:58] 8497, naming the entire stretch of the Santander, Barili, Toledo National Road, traversing barangay San Sebastian, Colase, Dalahican, Tangbo, Bonbon, Poblasyon, and Suba in the Municipality of Sambowan, through barangay Mantalongon, Tubod, Dakit, Kalubihan, Patupat, Azuzena, Santa Ana, Poblasyon, and Maghanoy, King Buanggan, Sayaw, Minolos, and Guiwanon in the Municipality of Barili, Province of San Jose. [1:01:00] 9497, naming the entire stretch of the Santander, Barili, Toledo National Road, traversing barangay San Sebastian, Colase, Dalahican, Tangbo, Bonbon, Poblasyon, and Suba in the Municipality of Sambowan, [1:01:13] through barangay Mantalongon, Tubod, Dakit, Kalubihan, Patupat, Azuzena, Santa Ana, Poblasyon, and Maghanoy, King Buanggan, Sayaw, Minolos, and Guiwanon in the Municipality of Barili, Province of Cebu, as the Pablo P. Garcia Highway. [1:01:31] 8498, naming the diversion road commencing at the Ormok Baybay Southern Leyte Boundary Road in barangay Bantigie and traversing barangay Sumanga, Patag, Donghol, Biliboy, and San Pablo, [1:01:42] up to the diversion junction at the Palo-Carigara Ormok Road in the City of Ormok, Province of Leyte, as the Mayor Vicente G. Torres Sr. Avenue. [1:01:52] 8499, naming the road from barangay West Junction of Hermosila Drive through barangay North Rizal Extension Road up to barangay Donghol, Donghol Lake Imelda Road, [1:02:03] which is also referred to by the Department of Public Works and Highways as the Ormok Lake Imelda National Tertiary Road in the City of Ormok, Province of Leyte, [1:02:11] as the Judge Benjamin Pongo Sr. Avenue. [1:02:15] Referred to the Committee on Public Works. [1:02:18] 8496, renaming the Tawi-Tawi Regional Agricultural College as the Tawi-Tawi State College, [1:02:23] expanding its curricular offerings and strengthening its governing board. [1:02:27] Referred to the Committee on Higher Technical and Vocational Education. [1:02:31] 8577, converting the Balicuatro College of Arts and Trades in the Municipality of Allen, Province of Northern Summer, [1:02:39] into a Polytechnic Institution to be known as the Northern Summer Polytechnic Institute and Appropriating Funds, therefore. [1:02:46] 8578, establishing a Polytechnic Institution in the Municipality of Motyong, Province of Summer, [1:02:52] to be known as the Motyong Polytechnic Institute and Appropriating Funds, therefore. [1:02:56] 8579, converting the Cagayan de Oro School of Arts and Trades in the City of Cagayan de Oro [1:03:02] into a Polytechnic Institution to be known as the Cagayan de Oro Polytechnic Institute and Appropriating Funds, therefore. [1:03:10] 8580, converting the Northern Mindanao School of Fisheries in the Municipality of Benavista, Province of Agusan del Norte, [1:03:17] into a Polytechnic Institution to be known as the Northern Mindanao Polytechnic Institute and Appropriating Funds, therefore. [1:03:23] 8581, an act establishing a Polytechnic Institution in the Municipality of Pulanggi, Province of Albay, [1:03:30] to be known as the Pulanggi Polytechnic Institute and Appropriating Funds, therefore. [1:03:35] 8582, converting the Dipolog School of Fisheries in the City of Dipolog, Province of Zamboanga del Norte, [1:03:40] into a Polytechnic Institution to be known as the Zamboanga del Norte Polytechnic Institute of Fisheries and Appropriating Funds, therefore. [1:03:47] 8583, converting the Agusan del Sur School of Arts and Trades in the Municipality of Prosperidad, Province of Agusan del Sur, [1:03:55] into a Polytechnic Institution to be known as the Agusan del Sur Polytechnic Institute and Appropriating Funds, therefore. [1:04:02] 8584, converting the Sorsogon National Agricultural School in the Municipality of Castilla, Province of Sorsogon, [1:04:09] into a Polytechnic Institution to be known as the Sorsogon Polytechnic Institute and Appropriating Funds, therefore. [1:04:14] 8612, establishing a Polytechnic Institution in the Municipality of Santa Maria, Province of Bulacan, [1:04:22] to be known as the Santa Maria Polytechnic Institute and Appropriating Funds, therefore. [1:04:26] Refer to the Committees on Higher Technical and Vocational Education and Finance. [1:04:31] 8626, establishing a College of Medicine in the Eastern Summer State University in the City of Borongan, [1:04:37] Province of Eastern Summer and Appropriating Funds, therefore. [1:04:40] 8627, converting the South Cotabato State College in the Municipality of Sorala, Province of South Cotabato, [1:04:47] into a State University to be known as the South Cotabato State Universities and Appropriating Funds, therefore. [1:04:53] Refer to the Committees on Higher Technical and Vocational Education, Ways and Means, and Finance. [1:04:59] 839, an act declaring Kan Umantad Falls, located in Barangay Kadapan, Municipality of Kandihay, [1:05:07] Province of Bohol, an ecotourism site. [1:05:10] 842, declaring Kan Koka Hills, located in Barangay Kambane, Municipality of Kandihay, [1:05:17] Province of Bohol, an ecotourism destination. [1:05:19] 9.01, declaring Mabanog Falls, located in Barangay Darapuway, Municipality of Bansalan, [1:05:25] Province of Davao del Sur, an ecotourism site. [1:05:28] And 1005, declaring the Congressman Edelmiro A. Amante Sr., Mapaso Resort, [1:05:34] and Adventure Nature Park, located in the Municipality of Santiago, [1:05:38] Province of Agusan del Sur, an ecotourism zone. [1:05:41] Refer to the Committees on Tourism, Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change and Finance. [1:05:47] 1.663, establishing the Battle of the Cebuyan Sea Memorial Shrine in the Municipality of Kahidyokan, [1:05:54] Province of Romblon, and declaring it a tourism destination. [1:05:57] Refer to the Committees on Tourism and Finance. [1:06:00] 1.664, declaring the Binucot Beach area, located in Barangay Bonsuran, [1:06:06] Municipality of Ferrol, Province of Romblon, an ecotourism destination. [1:06:10] Refer to the Committees on Tourism, Environment and Natural Resources, and Climate Change and Finance. [1:06:15] 1.665, declaring the Colong-Colong Beach, located in the Municipality of Cuerra, Province of Romblon, [1:06:23] a tourism destination. [1:06:25] And 1.666, declaring the Municipality of San Jose, popularly known as Isla de Carabao, [1:06:32] Province of Romblon, a tourism destination. [1:06:34] Refer to the Committees on Tourism and Finance. [1:06:37] 1.667, declaring the Looc Bay Area, located in the Municipality of Looc, Province of Romblon, [1:06:42] an ecotourism destination. [1:06:44] Refer to the Committees on Tourism, Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change and Finance. [1:06:50] 1.668, declaring the Payayasog Beach, located in Barangay Mangansagad, Municipality of Corcuera, [1:06:56] Province of Romblon, a tourism destination. [1:06:59] 1.669, declaring the Ruins of Cota de San Jose, located in the Municipality of Corcuera, [1:07:04] Province of Romblon, a tourism site. [1:07:06] 1.672, declaring the Siqui It Elepante Rock Formation, located in the Coast of Barangay Labnig, [1:07:13] Municipality of Corcuera, Province of Romblon, a tourism site. [1:07:17] Refer to the Committees on Tourism and Finance. [1:07:20] 2.928, declaring the Municipality of San Fernando, Province of Romblon, a tourism development area. [1:07:25] 8.562, declaring the Municipality of Colombo, Province of Sultan Qudrat, as tourism development area. [1:07:31] 8.563, declaring Bangal Caves, located in the Municipality of Ragay, Province of Camarinasur, as ecotourism destination. [1:07:39] Refer to the Committees on Tourism, Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change and Finance. [1:07:45] 8.564, declaring Barangay Managa, Insitio Balutakay, Municipality of Bansalan, Province of Dabaldasur, as a farm tourism destination. [1:07:54] Refer to the Committees on Tourism and Finance. [1:07:57] 8.565, declaring the Pasig Islet, located in Barangay Bato, Municipality of Santa Cruz, Province of Davaldasur, as an ecotourism site. [1:08:08] 8.566, declaring Barangay Kapatagan, in the City of Digos, Province of Davaldasur, as tourism destination. [1:08:14] 8.568, declaring the Bacawan Eco Park, located in Barangay New Busuang, Municipality of Calibo, Province of Aclan, as an ecotourism zone. [1:08:24] Refer to the Committees on Tourism, Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change, and Finance. [1:08:29] 8.569, declaring the immediate environs of the National Shrine of Padre Pio, commonly known as Padre Pio Shrine, located in Barangay San Pedro, City of Santa Tomas, Province of Batangas, as a tourism destination. [1:08:42] 8.573, declaring the Municipality of Barangay, in Mountain Province, as a tourism development area. [1:08:49] Refer to the Committees on Tourism and Finance. [1:08:51] 8.571, declaring the Palani Beach, located in the Municipality of Balod, Province of Masbate, as an ecotourism destination. [1:08:59] 8.572, declaring the Bien Unido Double Barrier Reef and its immediate underwater environs of Bien Unido, Province of Bohol, as a tourism destination. [1:09:09] 8.573, declaring Ulot River, in the Municipality of Paranas, Province of Samar, an ecotourism destination. [1:09:17] 8.574, declaring City of Pulacan, of San Fernando, Barangay, City of Talisay, Negros Occidental, as an ecotourism zone. [1:09:26] 8.575, declaring the Agusan Marsh, located in the Municipalities of Talocogon, San Francisco, Rosario, Bonawan, Loreto, La Paz, and Viruela, all in the province of Agusan del Sur, as an ecotourism zone. [1:09:41] Refer to the Committees on Tourism, Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change, and Finance. [1:09:46] 8.621, upgrading the Kalinga Provincial Hospital, in the City of Tabo, Province of Kalinga, into a Level 3 Regional Hospital, to be known as the Northern Cordillera Regional Medical Center, and appropriating funds, therefore. [1:10:00] 8.622, establishing in the City of Valencia, Province of Boquidnon, a multi-specialty hospital and research center, to be known as the Boquidnon Farmers Research and Medical Center, and appropriating funds, therefore. [1:10:11] 8.623, renaming the Josebe Lingad Memorial General Hospital, in the City of San Fernando, Province of Pampanga, to Josebe Lingad Medical Center, increasing its bed capacity from 1,000 to 1,500 beds, upgrading its professional healthcare services, and facilities, authorizing the increase of its medical personnel, and appropriating funds, therefore. [1:10:33] So, repealing for the purpose, RA number 11359. [1:10:37] Referred to the Committees on Health and Demography, Anne Finanis. [1:10:40] 8.623, granting a legislative franchise to Cagayan One Electric Cooperative, to construct, install, establish, operate, own, manage, and maintain a distribution system for the conveyance of electric power to the end users in the City of Tudwigarao, and municipalities of Peña Blanca, Inriles, Solana, Amulong, Piat, Santo Nino, Tuwao, Rizal, Igig, Alcala, and Bagao, Province of Cagayan. [1:11:04] 8.623, granting a legislative franchise to Isabella One Electric Cooperative, to construct, install, establish, operate, own, manage, and maintain a distribution system for the conveyance of electric power to the end users in the cities of Tudwigarao, City of Santiago, Municipalities of Angandanan, San Guillermo, Ramon, San Mateo, San Isidro, Alicia, Echage, Cordon Jones, San Agustin, Cabanatuan, Luna, and Reyna Mercedes, Province of Isabella. [1:11:33] 8.623, granting a legislative franchise to First Candaduanes Electric Cooperative, to construct, install, establish, operate, own, manage, and maintain a distribution system for the conveyance of electric power to the end users in the municipalities of Bagamanoc, Baras, Batok, Caramoran, Kigmoto, Pandan, Panganiban, San Andres, San Miguel, Viga, and Virac, Catanduanes. [1:11:57] 8.623, and 8.460, an act granting a legislative franchise to Occidental Mindoro Electric Cooperative, to construct, install, establish, operate, own, manage, and maintain a distribution system for the conveyance of electric power to the end users of Magsaysay, San Jose, Rizal, Kalintaan, Sablayan, Santa Cruz, Mamburaw, Abra de Ilog, Paluan, Province of Occidental Mindoro. [1:12:20] Referred to the Committee on Public Services. [1:12:25] Madam President, if I may. [1:12:28] Majority Leader. [1:12:29] Thank you. Madam President, before we proceed, may I just be allowed to recognize some guests from the gallery. [1:12:34] Guests of Senator Ligarda, Regional Director John Montero of BJMP Region 6, [1:12:42] and Mr. Sergio Dava Jr. of the Provincial Government of Antique. [1:12:48] Also, guest of this representation is Kasim Mirza from the University of Santo Tomas. [1:12:53] We welcome all of them in this August chamber. [1:12:56] We welcome you to the Senate. [1:12:58] Madam President, having closed the period of interpolation, may I be allowed to respectfully move [1:13:07] that we resume consideration of Senate Bill No. 1511 under Committee Report No. 15. [1:13:14] This is the bill strengthening the protection of parents against hospital detention. [1:13:20] I so move, Madam President. [1:13:27] Which bill is it? [1:13:29] Any objection? Hearing none, the motion is approved, and consideration of the said measure is now in order. [1:13:40] Please proceed. [1:13:40] Thank you, Madam President. [1:13:42] This juncture, I move to open the period of individual amendments, and with the consent of the body, [1:13:48] May we recognize, Madam President, Senator Risa Ontiveros, and to propose amendments, Madam President. [1:14:06] I so move. [1:14:07] We recognize Senator Risa Ontiveros for the period, this is committee amendments. [1:14:12] This is individual amendments, Madam President. [1:14:15] Individual amendments. [1:14:16] Yes. [1:14:16] But Senator Ontiveros is a sponsor. [1:14:19] Yes, Madam President. [1:14:22] Please proceed. [1:14:23] Thank you, Madam President. [1:14:25] Madam President, I thank Senators Sherwin Gatchalian, Joel Villanueva, and Robin Padilla [1:14:32] for their proposed amendments, enhancing the provisions of Senate Bill 1511, [1:14:37] or the Enhanced Anti-Hospital Detention Act. [1:14:41] Page one amendment from Senator Gatchalian. [1:14:44] On page one, line 12, after the conjunction, or delete the word carers, and replace with the word caregivers. [1:14:55] I so move, Madam President. [1:14:57] No objections. [1:14:59] It's adopted. [1:15:01] Thank you, Madam President. [1:15:02] Page two amendment. [1:15:03] I see Senator Pia Cayetano. [1:15:06] The lady from Taguigan, Patera, Senator Pia Cayetano, seeking the floor. [1:15:10] May I move that she be recognized, Madam President. [1:15:12] We recognize Senator Pia Cayetano. [1:15:16] Thank you, Mr. President, Madam President. [1:15:19] Her honor will recall that this representation waived our right to interpolate on the condition [1:15:31] that we would be allowed to ask clarificatory questions during the period of the amendment. [1:15:35] Does her honor recall? [1:15:36] Yes, Madam President. [1:15:37] Yeah, so what I'll do, Mr. President, is I'll just make a prefatory statement now [1:15:42] because my amendment is actually in this line now, in line 13. [1:15:47] So if I, with the permission of the sponsor, may I proceed? [1:15:51] Yes, Madam President, by all means. [1:15:53] Just to be clear about it, the amendment was accepted. [1:15:58] Ah, yes, I'm on the next. [1:15:59] I'm on to the next. [1:16:00] And we are on to the next, and we recognize Senator Pia. [1:16:03] Thank you, Mr. President. [1:16:04] So I'd like to put on record that this bill that her honor is sponsoring is an amendment [1:16:12] to the bill that I sponsored and that became law over a decade ago. [1:16:18] I don't even remember the year. [1:16:20] Do we remember the year? [1:16:23] I just want to put it on record kung gaano katagal na yun [1:16:25] and how we appreciate that her honor as chairman of the Committee on Health [1:16:31] at the time that she was handling this, 2007, so 19 years ago na. [1:16:37] It honestly feels like maybe six years ago, but it's 19 years ago. [1:16:42] So it is high time, and I thank the sponsor for taking the time to revisit this law. [1:16:48] So even after we passed it, we received many reports on how the situation of detention of patients [1:16:57] has improved, but then we would still continue to have to intervene many times [1:17:02] because this situation still kept coming up. [1:17:06] So this representation is thankful that we have the opportunity to strengthen this law even further. [1:17:13] And so, as I mentioned, I requested for the opportunity to ask clarificatory questions. [1:17:22] And in the interest of time and ease of – to make it easier to make – [1:17:28] for everyone to engage, to contribute to the amendments, [1:17:32] I will also make my observations and clarificatory questions, [1:17:38] which is necessary for the amendments I'm going to make in a timely manner. [1:17:42] Okay. So on that note, Madam President, my amendment is still on page one, [1:17:50] and that is why I stood up now. [1:17:52] It is on line 13. [1:17:56] So I will read the provision for everyone's understanding. [1:18:03] And of course, if we have – we don't really need it naman. [1:18:07] It's not a complicated line, but I just want to explain the nature of my amendment. [1:18:10] So the existing provision with the amendment of Senator Gachalian reads, [1:18:16] it shall also be unlawful to detain the relatives, representatives, or caregivers of such patients, [1:18:22] as well as the newborn child, in the case of maternity patients. [1:18:28] So that is where my question is. [1:18:29] On line 13, there is reference to the newborn child. [1:18:32] What I'd like to point out, Madam President, is that does her honor think there is a need [1:18:41] to indicate and to insert the proper descriptive lines whether the newborn child is fully or partially recovered [1:18:52] or may have died? [1:18:53] Because this is a phrase that is found in the previous paragraph with reference to a patient. [1:18:59] And I read, this is the existing provision. [1:19:03] The detention of patients who have fully or partially recovered [1:19:07] or have been adequately attended to or may have died. [1:19:11] So may clarification na ganon, na yung status ng patient, [1:19:14] whether nag-recover siya partially or fully or namatay, covered siya. [1:19:18] So I'm also asking now, should we make that same clarification for the newborn? [1:19:23] Kasi po, yung nakita kong mga cases, ilalaban pa talaga ng hospital. [1:19:28] Ah, patay na. [1:19:29] Hindi naman sinabi sa batas niyo na patay na. [1:19:31] Ah, buhay pa. [1:19:32] So this representation feels it won't hurt to add those lines. [1:19:37] We submit. [1:19:37] Madam President, I do agree with the gentlewoman from Taguigan-Pateros [1:19:43] that it would not hurt to include that qualification if she so desires. [1:19:48] Okay. [1:19:53] Then we will make the amendment, Madam President. [1:20:06] I can get back to her honor. [1:20:09] It's a very simple line naman. [1:20:10] So let me just propose it. [1:20:12] We can proceed so we don't delay. [1:20:13] And then I'll get back to this line. [1:20:15] Simple lang naman. [1:20:16] I'll ask my legislative staff as well to formulate this. [1:20:19] Yes, of course. [1:20:20] I would just like to clarify. [1:20:22] Before this, we accepted the amendment. [1:20:25] And this will be another sentence, the next sentence. [1:20:29] May you just please read it. [1:20:30] And then we say subject to style or depending on the consultation with the sponsor. [1:20:37] Yes. [1:20:38] Well, more or less subject to style. [1:20:41] It would be newborn child who has fully or partially recovered [1:20:50] or who has been adequately attended to or who may have died. [1:20:54] Similar to the above provision. [1:20:56] We submit, Madam President, subject to style. [1:20:59] If the sponsor so agrees, then the amendment, you're supposed to accept it if you would agree? [1:21:08] Just to add, Madam President, to my earlier acceptance. [1:21:11] Although this second paragraph of Section 1 is originally supposed to refer to that nefarious practice of palit ulo. [1:21:20] But as I mentioned, it would not hurt if the gentlewoman so desires to add that qualification of whether having fully or partially recovered [1:21:30] and having been adequately attended to or may have died to the phrase newborn child, Madam President. [1:21:38] It is therefore accepted by the sponsor. [1:21:40] It is accepted, Madam President. [1:21:41] I just made a record that the original focus of this paragraph was that palit ulo practice. [1:21:47] But just to be clear, the focus doesn't change. [1:21:50] This amendment instruct strengthens that whether buhay po or patay na po covered, [1:21:57] it strengthens the right of the mother to be able to bring home her child. [1:22:06] Yes, Madam President. [1:22:07] And we recognize the minority leader, Senator Soto. [1:22:10] I will concur with the subject to style, but just as a reminder, editorial amendment. [1:22:20] I don't think there is a use for the Article 2 between us and D. [1:22:26] Yes, we noted that, Madam President, I would have included that. [1:22:33] My staff was already pointing it out to me. [1:22:36] But since I said subject to style, di ko na po sinama. [1:22:38] But thank you, Mr. Minority Floor Leader, dahil yun din po ang nakita natin. [1:22:43] Thank you for that. [1:22:44] We thank the minority leader for that. [1:22:46] We proceed. [1:22:48] Madam Sponsor. [1:22:49] Yes, Madam President. [1:22:51] Thank you. [1:22:52] On moving now to page 2 amendments. [1:22:56] First from Senator Gatchalian. [1:22:59] On page 2, line 12. [1:23:01] Madam President, I have our interior amendment. [1:23:03] My, Madam President, is on line 6. [1:23:08] And so actually, there may be no need for an amendment. [1:23:19] It's just to clarify the intention here so that, again, when this bill, when these amendments become law, [1:23:27] we make it very clear what the legislative intent is. [1:23:30] So I'd like to read this into the record so that our colleagues who are following along with us can follow the discussion. [1:23:39] This paragraph is about the patient who expresses a desire to be admitted to a non-private room and yet naipasok siya sa private room. [1:23:55] So explain ko lang po ang concern ko. [1:23:57] So I'll read that paragraph first. [1:23:59] The amendment of the sponsor states, patients who stayed in private rooms shall not be covered by this act. [1:24:07] So ibig sabihin, hindi ka pwede mag-avail ng itong anti-detention kung nasa private room ka. [1:24:13] Unless, unless the said patient notwithstanding once expressed desire to be admitted to a non-private room was admitted to a private room for the following reasons. [1:24:24] A, no non-private room is available in the hospital, medical city, etc. [1:24:30] B, the physician or other medical professionals of the hospital, medical clinic, or other facility deemed it to be in the best interest of the patient to be admitted. [1:24:39] So the observation and the observation that I want to put on record is on letter B, na kaya naipasok sa private room ang pasyente dahil yung doktor niya or other professional, medical professional of the hospital or health center deemed it in the best interest of the patient to be admitted. [1:25:00] You know ang intention, tama ba, Madam Sponsor? [1:25:03] That's right, Madam President. [1:25:05] Okay. [1:25:05] And so what this representation would like to emphasize now is that the legislative intent for the physicians overriding the desire, [1:25:19] the expressed desire of the patient to be put in a non-private room is only for purpose of showing that in this case, that patient will be allowed to avail of the non-detention of this law. [1:25:35] They can avail of this law. [1:25:36] In other words, we are not liberalizing or changing the rule that the patient's desires will always govern. [1:25:43] A doctor, medical professional cannot override a patient's desire in other cases. [1:25:49] Limited to dito sa topic ng non-hospital detention. [1:25:54] Tama ho ba, Madam Sponsor? [1:25:56] Yes, Madam President. [1:25:57] One bill, one topic. [1:25:59] Yes. [1:26:00] So yun lang naman. [1:26:01] Again, to put it there. [1:26:02] Because minsan naku-quote yung bill. [1:26:03] Alam nyo naman. [1:26:04] Naku-quote. [1:26:05] Tapos hindi naman yan yung intention natin dito. [1:26:07] So nagkakasundo po tayo ng sponsor. [1:26:09] Yun lang po. [1:26:10] Thank you very much. [1:26:12] Thank you. [1:26:12] What is the next amendment of Senator Pia? [1:26:17] Just for my clarification. [1:26:18] Yes, we recognize the minority leader. [1:26:20] Thank you, Madam President. [1:26:21] Just for my clarification. [1:26:23] So kapag ikaw ay nasa in a private room, you know, you're in a private room, the law does not apply to you? [1:26:39] This law does not apply to you? [1:26:41] Is that it? [1:26:42] That is right, Madam President. [1:26:44] Eh, kung nasa non-private room ko, anong babayaran mo roon? [1:26:50] Di ba, wala ka naman talagang babayaran doon? [1:26:54] Sa private room kami babayaran eh. [1:26:56] It's actually the case po, Madam President, good minority leader, that even patients po na na-admit halimbawa sa mga ward, sa mga basic accommodation, kahit sila po, ay nag-accrue po ng out-of-pocket expenses. [1:27:18] Yes, I agree. [1:27:19] Madam President. [1:27:20] So, kaya hindi pa pwede itong, this law is very important for them. [1:27:25] Gusto nga natin ito. [1:27:26] And it's a variation of the original law by Senator Pia, kahit ano. [1:27:30] But then again, ang understanding ko in the language is kapag ikaw ay sa private room, they can detain you pag hindi ka makabayad. [1:27:41] The intent, Madam President, is that for the, in the contexts and under the conditions specified in this bill, at binagdagan po natin from the original law, may recourse po yung pasyente under this law. [1:27:58] It is not to say na kung iba pa po ang sirkumstansya niya, wala na siyang ibang remedies under the law, but it may be other laws. [1:28:06] Ito po, specific to those. [1:28:07] What recourse kaya would that be? For example, we have a patient in a private room, may cirrhosis of deliver, and then sabi ng mga doktor, wala na pag-asa ito, iuwi nyo na lang. [1:28:29] Hindi ma-iwi, walang pambayad. Hindi papayagan ng ospital. They do not fall in the category of this law, or this bill, I'm sorry. [1:28:42] Unfortunately, Madam President, in the case of that patient, yung medical decision po ng attending physician niya ang magpipreveal. [1:28:58] I think that's the answer, if her honor will allow. [1:29:03] Certainly, Madam President. [1:29:04] At least, at least, yes, thank you. [1:29:06] At least during the time that we sponsored the original bill, iba lang yung requirements ng private hospital. [1:29:12] They have the liberty to, nagpapauwi naman yan sila, and we really don't support any detention under any condition. [1:29:18] But because they chose a private room, minsan ang mahal din talaga ng rooms na pinipili nila, may iba silang kondisyon. [1:29:27] So they may be requiring promissory note, guarantor, ang daming requirements bago nila palabasin. [1:29:32] In this case, very specific yung rule na no detention. [1:29:37] And then later on in other provision, there are also requirements pa rin to produce something. [1:29:41] But that is what the law is dictating. [1:29:43] Hanggang dito lang ang pwede niyong i-require. [1:29:47] Pag private na, then the hospitals can make other requirements, Mr. President, to secure the payment for the services that were rendered, Mr. President. [1:30:00] Yun yung naalala po natin dun sa bill when we worked on it before. [1:30:04] Additionally, Madam President, additionally po may iwasan yung sitwasyon na binababalaan ni minority leader. [1:30:13] Dahil kahit sa mga private hospitals, by law, kailangan nilang i-provide 10% ng mga kwarto nila under ward or basic accommodations terms to the patients, Madam President. [1:30:24] Well, just for the record, so that when this bill becomes law, the explanation of the sponsors are placed on record. [1:30:44] So just in case it is questioned on this particular issue. [1:30:47] And the point of the minority leader is the protection on the part of those availing of the… [1:30:52] Those who cannot pay, anyway. [1:30:54] Who cannot pay, but in a private room. [1:30:56] We just wanted to place it on record. [1:30:59] Thank you. [1:30:59] Thank you. [1:31:00] Thank you, Madam President. [1:31:02] Senator Cayetano is finished with her amendments. [1:31:10] We're on page two amendments, Madam President. [1:31:10] I was just following the sequence, so I have more when her honor gets to the page and number that I'm at. [1:31:17] Thank you. [1:31:18] Thank you. [1:31:18] We recognize Senator Irwin Tulfo. [1:31:20] If the lady sponsor would allow it, Madam President. [1:31:25] Yes, Madam President. [1:31:25] Thank you, Madam President. [1:31:57] Good lady sponsor. [1:32:00] Ay, emergency po. [1:32:02] Puno po lagi ang mga ward, ang mga free ward. [1:32:07] Kaya napipilitan pong silang sinasabi sa ospital na kung maari ilagay ang kanilang pasyente sa private ward, sa private room. [1:32:16] Minsan po alam nila na napakamahal po ito, pero gusto lang po siguro nilang mailigtas ang kanilang mahal sa buhay. [1:32:24] Kaya po, kasi ang sinasabi kadalasan ng ospital, ala po kaming kwarto, ala po kaming higaan para sa inyo. [1:32:32] Kailangan po ninyong ilipat ang inyong pasyente. [1:32:36] Dito po nagkakaproblema, kaya napipilitan po ang isang mahirap na pasyente na kababayan natin na sabihin na lamang okay na po sa free ward, ay sa paying po kami, magbabayad naman po kami. [1:32:48] Gayong alam po nila na wala po silang kakayahan na magbayad, ito po ang isa sa mga kadalasang suliranin na mga kababayan natin, Madam President, Good Lady Sponsor. [1:32:59] Kaya po, hindi naman sa kagustuhan nilang mailagay sa private room, kundi dahil sa po sa ikang kailangan na kailangan na pong matugunan, makita ng doktor ang pasyente. [1:33:13] Otherwise, ang option lamang po nila ay ilipat sa ibang ospital. [1:33:17] Kalimitan po sa mga lalawigan, kailangan ilipat pa sa isusunod na bayan o sa lungsod ang pasyente para lamang po matugunan. [1:33:25] Eh paano po, Madam President, Good Lady Sponsor, kung ang sakit po ay appendicitis at kailangan na pong operahan, ay ililipat pa po ba? [1:33:34] Kaya no choice po sila. Siguro po, can we put this on record, Madam President, Good Lady Sponsor, na sometimes po, hindi po nila kagustuhan na ilagay po ang kanilang pasyente sa ospital. [1:33:46] Yun lang sa private room, Madam President, Good Lady Sponsor. Yun lamang po. [1:33:49] Thank you, Senator Irwin Tulfo. [1:33:51] Salamat. [1:33:52] I'd like note of that, and at least if there are problems in the future in interpretation of this law, the comments will be able to enlighten the poor patients who may be booked in a private room. [1:34:05] Thank you. [1:34:05] Salamat, Madam President, and even now, salamat sa Good Gentleman mula sa Palawan. [1:34:12] Yung pag-exemption ng coverage nitong law sa ganung mga pasyente na inilarawan ng Good Gentleman ay nandun na rin po sa page 2, line 8, letter A, [1:34:26] na kaya sila na ipasok sa private room, may dahilan na no non-private room in the hospital, medical clinic, or any other similar facility was available. [1:34:38] Or ganun yung impormasyon na ibinigay sa kanila. [1:34:42] And the patient was compelled to be admitted there too due to the urgency of the case. [1:34:48] Pero nagpapasalamat pa rin ako sa Good Gentleman. [1:34:51] Yung dagdag na paliwanag nila sa ganitong sitwasyon ay on the record na rin po para sa mga situations in the future tulad ng sinabi ni Madam President na kailangan pang lalong ipaliwanag. [1:35:03] Salamat, Madam President. [1:35:04] Thank you. [1:35:05] We recognize Senator Pia. [1:35:07] It's just an added commentary. [1:35:09] Earlier when I said that we thanked the sponsor for bringing up, taking up this amendment to the existing law. [1:35:17] Kasi nga, these are the kind of examples that are brought to our attention. [1:35:20] Whether it's kay Senator Tulfo sa atin, and I'm sure sa tanggapan din ng ating sponsor. [1:35:24] So kaya nasama na nga yung sinasabing sitwasyon ni Senator Tulfo, nandyan na sa letter A. [1:35:30] And I read it into the record earlier. [1:35:31] So we thank the sponsor na in-include na talaga yan kasi it's a very common complaint that we receive. [1:35:37] Thank you. [1:35:38] Thank you. [1:35:38] Salamat, Madam President. [1:35:41] Moving on to, well, page 2 amendments from Senator Gatchalian. [1:35:46] On page 2, line 12, after the second article, the, insert the word attending. [1:35:53] And after the word other, insert the word competent. [1:35:57] I so move, Madam President. [1:35:58] No objections, hearing none, the amendment is adopted. [1:36:04] Thank you, Madam President. [1:36:06] Still from Senator Gatchalian, on page 2, line 18. [1:36:10] After the word circumstances, insert a colon and the phrase, [1:36:15] provided that the medical justification shall be in writing and signed by the attending physician [1:36:21] or other competent medical professional. [1:36:25] I so move. [1:36:25] No objections, hearing none, it is adopted. [1:36:30] Thank you, Madam President. [1:36:32] From this representation and Senator Gatchalian, still on page 2, [1:36:37] between lines 18 and 19, insert the following paragraph. [1:36:42] For purposes of this act, detention refers to any act of restraining a person [1:36:48] from leaving the hospital, clinic, or similar facility on grounds of nonpayment, [1:36:54] in part or in full, of hospital bills, medical expenses, or professional fees. [1:37:00] It includes the refusal to, A, physically discharge, or to issue documents necessary for discharge, [1:37:09] interment, or benefit claims. [1:37:12] B, remove medical devices when removal is medically appropriate. [1:37:17] Or, C, release a cadaver of a deceased patient to the surviving relatives. [1:37:23] I so move, Madam President. [1:37:26] No objections. [1:37:27] Hearing none, it is adopted. [1:37:29] Thank you, Madam President. [1:37:29] We recognize Senator Pia. [1:37:31] Yes, Madam President. [1:37:36] I actually defer to the wishes of the sponsor. [1:37:40] I just like to point out that in the definition of detention, [1:37:45] and I don't have a copy, so this is just from what I heard, [1:37:48] Her Honor made reference to the detention of the patient. [1:37:51] But when we defined earlier, in the earlier provisions, [1:37:55] we referred to the caregiver and the newborn. [1:37:57] So, does Her Honor think it might be better that we also mention them, [1:38:03] the patient, the caregiver, and the newborn, for consistency, Madam President. [1:38:09] I would be accepting of that, Madam President. [1:38:13] And is there an amendment? [1:38:15] Subject to style, Madam President. [1:38:17] The addition of those terms. [1:38:19] Yeah, the amendment would be, after the word patients, [1:38:23] the caregivers, or the newborn. [1:38:29] We submit. [1:38:30] May we hear the whole sentence from the sponsor? [1:38:34] As I understand it from the... [1:38:37] Sorry, sorry, sorry. [1:38:38] Yes, Madam President. [1:38:38] The complete reference in the earlier paragraphs [1:38:42] also make note of relatives and representatives. [1:38:46] In addition to caregivers. [1:38:49] So, I can write down the complete line, [1:38:51] if Her Honor wishes, or we can just add it. [1:38:56] The intention is not to limit it to the patient, [1:39:01] but to include everyone else that was mentioned earlier, [1:39:04] that if they cannot detain those persons. [1:39:06] The caregiver and relatives and or representatives. [1:39:10] That is the intention. [1:39:14] So, we'll include that same enumeration in this provision. [1:39:18] I don't have a copy. [1:39:18] I'm sorry. [1:39:19] So, I can't make reference to which line [1:39:22] because I don't have a copy of the amendment. [1:39:25] Yes. [1:39:25] Again, Madam President, I accept subject to style. [1:39:28] Thank you, Senator Caetano. [1:39:30] Thank you, Madam Sponsor. [1:39:31] Thank you, Madam President. [1:39:33] And just for the record, Madam President, [1:39:35] the proposed amendments clarify and strengthen [1:39:38] the definition of detention [1:39:40] by expanding coverage beyond physical restraint [1:39:43] to include indirect or administrative acts [1:39:46] that prevent or delay lawful discharge or release. [1:39:50] The revisions also broaden the scope of covered facilities [1:39:54] expressly, and here this speaks to the concern [1:39:58] of the gentlelady from Taguigan-Pateros, [1:40:00] expressly include caregivers and deceased patients [1:40:04] and clarify prohibited acts [1:40:06] such as withholding discharge documents, [1:40:09] delaying cadaver release, [1:40:11] or refusing medically authorized device removal. [1:40:15] These changes close interpretative loopholes, [1:40:19] align the definition with actual detention practices [1:40:22] such as palitulo, [1:40:24] and strengthen patient protection [1:40:26] consistent with the intention of RA 9439. [1:40:31] Moving on, Madam President. [1:40:33] Sorry. [1:40:34] Yes, Madam President. [1:40:35] Again, this issue is so close to my heart, [1:40:38] so I'm just randomly thinking of other situations. [1:40:42] Did her honor or for that matter, [1:40:44] any of our colleagues come across situations [1:40:46] where yung gamit nung pasyente [1:40:49] eh hindi nire-release? [1:40:50] Kasi tinatanong ko yung staff ko ngayon, [1:40:52] parang meron ding ganon. [1:40:54] So, baka we should consider that even the belongings, [1:40:57] it could, imagine now that people bring their laptop, [1:41:01] yung mga long-staying dun, [1:41:02] baka may dala pang, [1:41:03] di naman refrigerator, [1:41:04] pero baka may dalang, [1:41:06] hindi pwede ah, [1:41:06] may nagpapasok ng refrigerator [1:41:07] now that I remember. [1:41:09] So, would her honor consider that, [1:41:11] na they cannot also hold [1:41:13] personal belongings. [1:41:15] The belongings, yeah. [1:41:16] Certainly, Madam President, [1:41:18] lalo na kung personal belongings naman talaga yun, [1:41:21] ng pasyente or pamilya or carer niya, [1:41:23] dinala nila for the confinement, [1:41:25] certainly they should not be, [1:41:27] kumbaga, withheld from them [1:41:28] kapag uuwi na, Madam President. [1:41:31] So, actually, sabi nga po ng staff ko, [1:41:34] medyo maraming report na kinukuha yung cellphone. [1:41:36] So, I will draft an amendment [1:41:38] and then balikan na lang po natin. [1:41:40] I will submit the language in a while. [1:41:42] Yes, thank you all for that. [1:41:44] We take note of that. [1:41:44] Thank you. [1:41:45] Thank you, Madam President. [1:41:48] Oh. [1:41:50] Yes, Madam President. [1:41:51] We recognize Senator Irwin. [1:41:53] Majority Leader. [1:41:55] Thank you, Madam President. [1:41:56] Good lady sponsor. [1:41:58] Nais ko laman po idagdag sana [1:42:00] kung wala pa po dito [1:42:01] ay nabanggit po kasi [1:42:04] ng ni Senadora Pia [1:42:08] na yung mga laptop at cellphone. [1:42:10] Ilang may mga nangyari na rin po [1:42:14] na kukuni na lamang po [1:42:16] ng tatay o ng asawa [1:42:18] yung pasyente sa ospital [1:42:20] at wala pong pambayad. [1:42:22] Pinapaiwan po yung kanyang hanap buhay. [1:42:25] Tricycle o jeepney. [1:42:27] Minsan po ay wala pong mga cellphone. [1:42:30] Ang pinapaiwan po ay tinatanong [1:42:32] may traktor o kabahan traktor. [1:42:33] Eh, no choice po [1:42:35] kundi gagawin po [1:42:37] ng pasyente, [1:42:38] ng asawa o ng tatay [1:42:39] iiwan po ang kanyang pangkabuhayan [1:42:41] jeepney, [1:42:42] tricycle driver, [1:42:44] tricycle, [1:42:45] traktor, [1:42:47] hand traktor. [1:42:48] Madam President, [1:42:48] good lady sponsor. [1:42:50] So, just in case [1:42:51] kung wala pa po [1:42:51] ay baka pwede isaman na po natin [1:42:53] na huwag naman [1:42:54] na hanap buhay po yun eh. [1:42:56] May lalabas niya nga po [1:42:57] yung kanyang anak, asawa [1:42:59] subalit yung kanyang pangkabuhayan [1:43:00] naman po ay mawawala. [1:43:02] Thank you, Madam President. [1:43:03] What is the amendment [1:43:04] of Senator Tulfo then? [1:43:08] Gusto ko po sanang [1:43:08] may isama po ito. [1:43:09] How do we phrase it? [1:43:10] Kung isama na rin po [1:43:11] doon sa amendment po. [1:43:13] Livelyhood? [1:43:14] Opo, [1:43:15] na kay Senadora Pia, [1:43:16] yung livelihood. [1:43:17] Huwag naman pong [1:43:18] alisin yung livelihood, [1:43:20] Madam President. [1:43:21] And so, [1:43:22] we would include [1:43:23] personal belongings [1:43:24] and livelihood. [1:43:25] Is that what the [1:43:26] sponsor would agree to? [1:43:28] Again, Madam President, [1:43:30] probably subject to style, [1:43:31] but I fully recognize [1:43:33] the, not just concern, [1:43:34] but real situations [1:43:36] na inilalarawan ng [1:43:37] good gentleman [1:43:38] mula sa [1:43:39] Palawan. [1:43:41] Kaugnay nung dati [1:43:42] rin mga, [1:43:43] or kasalukuyang practices [1:43:44] na pinapipirma [1:43:45] ng promissory note [1:43:46] at kailangan may [1:43:47] collateral. [1:43:49] Eh, paano nga po [1:43:50] kung walang collateral [1:43:51] or maika-collateral [1:43:52] yung tao [1:43:53] na aabot pa [1:43:55] hanggang sa mga [1:43:55] kagamitan [1:43:56] para maghanap buhay. [1:43:58] So, this [1:43:58] amended law [1:44:00] is intended [1:44:00] or amendatory bill [1:44:02] is intended [1:44:03] to prevent [1:44:04] such situations. [1:44:06] So, I would be open [1:44:07] to adding language [1:44:08] reflecting [1:44:09] the concern [1:44:11] raised by the [1:44:12] good gentleman. [1:44:13] Thank you. [1:44:13] Madam President, [1:44:14] if I may. [1:44:15] Madam President, [1:44:16] we have been [1:44:16] talking about [1:44:18] the proposed [1:44:20] amendment [1:44:21] of the [1:44:21] distinguished gentleman [1:44:22] from Palawan [1:44:23] and right now [1:44:25] Senator Pia [1:44:26] and our [1:44:27] minority leader [1:44:28] are coordinating [1:44:29] with each other [1:44:30] with the right [1:44:31] word that will be [1:44:32] introduced later on. [1:44:33] So, we would like [1:44:34] to put that [1:44:35] into the records. [1:44:37] Madam President, [1:44:38] if I may, [1:44:39] may I just move [1:44:40] for a minute suspension? [1:44:41] Session suspended. [1:46:26] Madam President, [1:46:27] to allow our [1:46:29] colleagues [1:46:29] to craft [1:46:31] the necessary [1:46:32] amendment [1:46:32] being proposed [1:46:33] here on the floor, [1:46:34] may I move [1:46:34] that we suspend [1:46:35] consideration [1:46:36] of Senate Bill [1:46:37] No. 1511 [1:46:39] under Committee [1:46:39] Report No. 15. [1:46:40] So, move Madam President. [1:46:42] Any objections? [1:46:43] Hearing none, [1:46:45] the period [1:46:45] of amendments [1:46:46] on the measure [1:46:47] is suspended. [1:46:49] Thank you, [1:46:50] Madam President. [1:46:50] Madam President, [1:46:51] with the consent [1:46:52] of the body, [1:46:53] I move that we [1:46:53] transfer from [1:46:54] the calendar [1:46:55] for ordinary business [1:46:56] to the calendar [1:46:56] for special orders [1:46:57] House Bill [1:46:58] No. 6639 [1:47:00] under Committee [1:47:01] Report No. 61 [1:47:02] and House Bill [1:47:03] No. 6644 [1:47:05] under Committee [1:47:05] Report No. 62. [1:47:07] These are bills [1:47:08] granting [1:47:08] Philippine citizenships. [1:47:10] I so move, [1:47:10] Madam President. [1:47:12] Any objection? [1:47:13] Hearing none. [1:47:14] Motion is approved. [1:47:16] Madam President, [1:47:17] I move that we [1:47:18] consider the [1:47:18] aforementioned [1:47:19] House bills. [1:47:20] I so move, [1:47:20] Madam President. [1:47:27] Any objection? [1:47:29] Hearing none. [1:47:30] The motion is approved. [1:47:31] Secretary, [1:47:33] please read into [1:47:33] the record [1:47:34] the title [1:47:34] of the bills [1:47:35] without prejudice [1:47:37] to inserting [1:47:37] into the record [1:47:38] the whole text. [1:47:40] They're wrong. [1:47:41] House Bill No. 6639, [1:47:44] an act granting [1:47:45] Philippine citizenship [1:47:46] to Benny François [1:47:47] Botwright III. [1:47:49] House Bill No. 6644, [1:47:52] an act granting [1:47:53] Philippine citizenship [1:47:54] to Matthew James Ramos. [1:47:57] Madam President, [1:48:00] upon the consultation [1:48:02] of this representation [1:48:03] to the minority leader [1:48:05] and with the consent [1:48:06] of the body, [1:48:06] may I respectfully move [1:48:08] to recognize [1:48:09] Senator Francis Kiko Pangilinan [1:48:12] to deliver [1:48:12] an omnibus [1:48:13] sponsorship speech. [1:48:14] I so move, [1:48:15] Madam President. [1:48:17] We recognize [1:48:18] Senator Kiko Pangilinan [1:48:20] for his sponsorship. [1:48:22] Yes. [1:48:23] Please proceed. [1:48:25] Thank you, [1:48:27] Madam President. [1:48:28] Thank you, [1:48:29] distinguished [1:48:29] majority leader, [1:48:32] acting majority leader. [1:48:34] and to our [1:48:36] distinguished colleagues. [1:48:37] I rise today [1:48:38] with the permission [1:48:39] of our colleagues [1:48:40] for an omnibus [1:48:44] sponsorship [1:48:44] of two committee reports. [1:48:48] Committee report [1:48:49] No. 61, [1:48:50] in consideration [1:48:51] of House Bill 6639, [1:48:54] granting Philippine citizenship [1:48:55] to Benny François [1:48:57] Botwright III, [1:48:58] and Committee report [1:48:59] No. 62, [1:49:00] in consideration [1:49:01] of House Bill [1:49:02] No. 6644, [1:49:04] granting Philippine citizenship [1:49:06] to Matthew James Ramos. [1:49:09] These measures [1:49:10] correspond to [1:49:12] Senate Bill [1:49:13] 5095, [1:49:15] authored [1:49:15] by [1:49:16] Senate President [1:49:18] Alan Peter Cayetano, [1:49:19] Senator Pia Cayetano, [1:49:22] and Senator [1:49:22] Bongo, [1:49:23] granting Philippine citizenship [1:49:25] to Benny [1:49:26] Botwright. [1:49:27] And Senate Bill No. 1613, [1:49:30] authored by [1:49:30] Senator Bongo, [1:49:32] granting Philippine citizenship [1:49:33] to Matthew James Ramos. [1:49:36] Matthew and Benny [1:49:37] are world-class athletes [1:49:39] who, [1:49:40] despite the many opportunities [1:49:42] and paths [1:49:43] available [1:49:44] to them elsewhere, [1:49:46] have chosen [1:49:47] to cast their lot [1:49:48] with the Filipino people. [1:49:50] Pinili nila, [1:49:52] hindi lang lumaban [1:49:53] para sa bandila natin, [1:49:57] pinili rin nilang [1:49:58] maging bahagi [1:49:59] ng ating kwento [1:50:01] bilang isang bansa. [1:50:03] Matthew James Ramos [1:50:05] is a decorated wrestler [1:50:06] and a proud son [1:50:08] of Filipino-pangasinense [1:50:10] Father [1:50:11] Chris [1:50:12] Crescente [1:50:13] Holandai Ramos. [1:50:14] Kahit na ipinanganak [1:50:19] at pinalaki [1:50:20] sa Estados Unidos, [1:50:22] pinili ni Matthew [1:50:23] nang bigyang karangalan [1:50:24] ang kanyang mga ninuno, [1:50:26] hindi lang sa salita, [1:50:28] kung hindi sa sakripisyo, [1:50:30] sa paninindigan [1:50:32] at serbisyo [1:50:33] sa Philippine sports. [1:50:35] At the height [1:50:36] of a promising wrestling career [1:50:37] in the United States, [1:50:39] Matthew made [1:50:40] the life-changing decision [1:50:41] to represent the Philippines [1:50:43] in international competitions [1:50:45] and helped elevate [1:50:47] the sport of wrestling [1:50:48] in the country. [1:50:51] Among his [1:50:52] outstanding accomplishments, [1:50:55] Matthew was runner-up [1:50:56] in the 2023 [1:50:58] NCAA Championships [1:50:59] and was hailed [1:51:01] as Purdue University's [1:51:03] 60th All-American. [1:51:06] He is a two-time [1:51:07] NCAA qualifier [1:51:09] and a two-time [1:51:10] Big Ten place winner, [1:51:12] finishing seventh [1:51:13] in 2022 [1:51:14] and third [1:51:15] in 2023. [1:51:17] He became [1:51:18] the 2022 [1:51:19] U.S. Open champion [1:51:21] in the 57-kilogram category [1:51:24] and reached [1:51:25] the NCAA Championships [1:51:26] round of 12 [1:51:28] in the 133-pound division [1:51:30] that same year. [1:51:32] He was also [1:51:33] a two-time [1:51:35] NWCA [1:51:36] National Wrestling [1:51:38] Coaches Association [1:51:39] scholar, [1:51:41] All-American, [1:51:42] and, [1:51:43] at a young age, [1:51:44] captured the [1:51:45] 2018 Cadet [1:51:47] World Championship [1:51:48] in the 51-kilogram category. [1:51:52] He was ranked [1:51:52] among the top [1:51:54] wrestling recruits [1:51:55] in the United States [1:51:56] by Flow Wrestling, [1:51:58] Intermat, [1:51:59] and the Open Mat. [1:52:01] Yet, [1:52:02] despite these accolades [1:52:03] and the many doors [1:52:05] open to him [1:52:06] in America, [1:52:07] Matthew Ramos [1:52:08] chose [1:52:09] the Philippines. [1:52:10] He embraced [1:52:11] not only our food [1:52:12] from adobo [1:52:14] to dinuguan [1:52:15] and to balut. [1:52:18] If you are able [1:52:19] to eat balut, [1:52:20] you are very, [1:52:23] very Filipino [1:52:24] in that sense. [1:52:25] But also, [1:52:26] the deeper values [1:52:27] that define us [1:52:28] as a people. [1:52:29] Respect for elders [1:52:31] through po and opo. [1:52:33] The importance [1:52:34] of family. [1:52:35] During the hearing, [1:52:37] I think, [1:52:37] six or seven [1:52:38] or eight [1:52:38] of his family members [1:52:40] and his fiancée [1:52:42] or his girlfriend [1:52:43] was there. [1:52:45] And he brought [1:52:46] the warmth [1:52:46] of the Filipino [1:52:49] spirit [1:52:50] and community. [1:52:51] Like adobo, [1:52:53] which is cooked [1:52:53] differently [1:52:54] in every region [1:52:55] of the country, [1:52:56] being Filipino [1:52:57] comes in many forms. [1:52:59] But whether in cooking, [1:53:00] in sports, [1:53:01] or in nationhood, [1:53:02] what matters most [1:53:03] is the heart, [1:53:04] ang puso. [1:53:06] And for Matthew Ramos, [1:53:07] becoming Filipino [1:53:08] is already in his heart. [1:53:10] He was unable [1:53:11] to attend [1:53:11] today's sponsorship speech, [1:53:14] Mr. President, [1:53:15] but he was actually [1:53:16] here last week [1:53:17] when we were scheduled [1:53:19] to sponsor it [1:53:20] last week. [1:53:21] He had to go back [1:53:22] to the United States [1:53:23] for a competition, [1:53:25] but he is committed [1:53:28] to coming back [1:53:29] when we pass [1:53:30] this measure [1:53:30] in plenary. [1:53:33] We also recognize [1:53:34] Benny, [1:53:35] Francois Boatwright III, [1:53:38] a 27-year-old [1:53:39] basketball player [1:53:40] from Los Angeles, [1:53:41] California, [1:53:42] whose talent [1:53:43] and leadership [1:53:44] have already inspired [1:53:45] countless Filipinos, [1:53:47] Filipino basketball fans. [1:53:50] Benny, [1:53:51] Francois Boatwright, [1:53:53] is here with us [1:53:54] in the gallery. [1:53:56] Standing at [1:53:56] 6 feet 10 inches, [1:53:58] Benny joined [1:53:59] the San Miguel [1:54:00] Beerman [1:54:00] in December 2023 [1:54:02] as the team's import [1:54:04] for the PBA [1:54:05] Commissioner's Cup. [1:54:06] He played a crucial role [1:54:09] in leading the Beerman [1:54:10] to the championship, [1:54:11] delivering 19 points, [1:54:13] 13 rebounds, [1:54:15] 8 assists [1:54:15] in the title-clinching [1:54:17] Game 6. [1:54:19] But beyond [1:54:19] his athletic ability, [1:54:20] Benny understands [1:54:21] something deeply familiar [1:54:23] to Filipinos, [1:54:24] that basketball [1:54:25] is never about [1:54:26] one person alone. [1:54:27] it is about [1:54:28] trust, [1:54:30] sacrifice, [1:54:31] and teamwork. [1:54:32] That spirit [1:54:33] mirrors our own [1:54:34] Bayanihan tradition, [1:54:35] the belief [1:54:36] that people [1:54:36] achieve greatness [1:54:37] when they lift [1:54:38] one another up. [1:54:40] By embracing [1:54:41] the Philippines [1:54:42] and choosing [1:54:42] to stand [1:54:43] with Filipino athletes, [1:54:45] Benny Boatwright [1:54:45] strengthens [1:54:46] not only [1:54:47] our basketball [1:54:48] program, [1:54:49] but also [1:54:50] our hopes [1:54:51] of excelling [1:54:52] on the international [1:54:53] stage, [1:54:54] defending [1:54:55] our Asian Games [1:54:56] title, [1:54:57] and one day [1:54:58] returning [1:54:59] to the Olympics. [1:55:00] In recognizing [1:55:01] the sincere desire [1:55:03] of Matthew James Ramos [1:55:05] and Benny Francois [1:55:07] Boatwright III [1:55:09] to become Filipinos, [1:55:11] these bills [1:55:13] seek to honor [1:55:14] not only [1:55:14] their achievements [1:55:15] as athletes, [1:55:16] but also [1:55:17] their genuine [1:55:17] commitment [1:55:18] to our flag, [1:55:20] our people, [1:55:21] our culture, [1:55:22] and our nation. [1:55:24] For citizenship [1:55:25] is not defined [1:55:26] solely [1:55:26] by use [1:55:27] solely, [1:55:29] meaning [1:55:30] right by [1:55:31] birthplace, [1:55:32] or use [1:55:33] sanguinis, [1:55:34] meaning [1:55:34] right by [1:55:35] blood. [1:55:36] As people [1:55:37] have moved [1:55:37] since the [1:55:38] beginning of [1:55:39] time, [1:55:40] citizenship [1:55:40] is also [1:55:41] defined [1:55:42] by right [1:55:45] by choice. [1:55:46] Citizenship [1:55:47] is also [1:55:48] defined [1:55:48] by choosing [1:55:50] to carry [1:55:51] the Philippine [1:55:51] flag with [1:55:52] pride and [1:55:52] honor [1:55:53] before the [1:55:54] world. [1:55:55] Mabuhay [1:55:56] ang pinipili [1:55:57] ang Pilipinas, [1:55:58] mabuhay [1:55:59] ang nagmamahal, [1:56:00] sa Pilipinas, [1:56:01] mabuhay [1:56:02] ang Pilipinas. [1:56:04] May we request [1:56:05] our colleagues, [1:56:06] we urge them, [1:56:08] to support [1:56:08] this measure [1:56:09] in its immediate [1:56:10] passing. [1:56:11] Maraming salamat, [1:56:11] Mr. President. [1:56:12] Thank you, [1:56:13] Senator Pangilinan, [1:56:14] Majority Leader. [1:56:18] Madam [1:56:18] President, [1:56:19] the gentleman [1:56:20] from San Juan, [1:56:21] Senator [1:56:22] Jingoy Estrada, [1:56:23] would like to [1:56:24] deliver his [1:56:25] co-sponsorship [1:56:26] speech. [1:56:26] May we [1:56:27] be recognized, [1:56:28] Madam [1:56:28] President. [1:56:29] Senator [1:56:30] Jingoy Estrada, [1:56:31] thank you, [1:56:32] Madam [1:56:32] President. [1:56:33] Madam [1:56:33] President, [1:56:33] distinguished [1:56:34] colleagues, [1:56:34] I'm honored to [1:56:36] co-sponsor the [1:56:36] bills granting [1:56:38] Filipino [1:56:38] citizenship to [1:56:39] two remarkable [1:56:41] athletes to [1:56:41] it. [1:56:42] House Bill [1:56:43] number 6639, [1:56:45] under Committee [1:56:45] Report number [1:56:46] 61, [1:56:47] entitled an [1:56:48] Act Granting [1:56:48] Philippine [1:56:49] Citizenship to [1:56:50] Benny [1:56:50] Francois [1:56:51] Botry, [1:56:51] the third. [1:56:52] And House [1:56:53] Bill number [1:56:53] 6644, [1:56:55] under Committee [1:56:55] Report number [1:56:56] 62, [1:56:57] entitled an [1:56:58] Act Granting [1:56:59] Philippine [1:56:59] Citizenship to [1:57:00] Matthew James [1:57:01] Ramos. [1:57:02] The said [1:57:03] bills are [1:57:03] reported out [1:57:04] by the [1:57:04] Committee on [1:57:04] Justice and [1:57:05] Human Rights [1:57:06] under the [1:57:06] able leadership [1:57:07] of its [1:57:08] chairperson, [1:57:09] Senator [1:57:10] Francis Kiko [1:57:11] Pangilinan, [1:57:12] the best [1:57:12] friend of [1:57:13] Senator [1:57:13] Robin Padilla. [1:57:16] Mr. [1:57:16] Benny [1:57:16] Francois [1:57:17] Botry, [1:57:18] the third, [1:57:19] is a 29-year-old [1:57:21] professional [1:57:22] basketball player [1:57:23] born in [1:57:24] Los Angeles, [1:57:25] California. [1:57:26] He stands [1:57:27] at 6 feet [1:57:27] 10 inches. [1:57:29] He has [1:57:29] demonstrated [1:57:30] an immediate [1:57:31] and [1:57:31] powerful [1:57:31] impact upon [1:57:32] joining the [1:57:33] San Miguel [1:57:33] Beerman [1:57:34] in December [1:57:35] 2023 for [1:57:36] the PBA [1:57:37] Commissioner's [1:57:37] Cup. [1:57:38] His [1:57:39] exceptional [1:57:39] skill and [1:57:41] leadership were [1:57:41] instrumental in [1:57:43] leading the [1:57:43] Beerman to [1:57:44] the championship [1:57:45] crown, [1:57:46] securing the [1:57:46] title after [1:57:47] tallying 19 [1:57:48] points, 13 [1:57:48] rebounds, and [1:57:50] 8 assists in [1:57:51] the crucial [1:57:51] game 6. [1:57:53] This [1:57:53] performance [1:57:53] quickly earned [1:57:54] the admiration [1:57:55] of Filipino [1:57:56] fans. [1:57:57] His [1:57:57] naturalization [1:57:58] will pave the [1:57:58] way for him [1:57:59] to play for [1:58:00] the national [1:58:00] basketball team, [1:58:01] Gilas, [1:58:02] Pilipinas. [1:58:03] His bid for [1:58:05] naturalization is [1:58:06] supported by the [1:58:06] Samahang Basketball [1:58:07] ng Pilipinas [1:58:08] Executive Director [1:58:09] Erika Dee and [1:58:11] Gilas Team [1:58:12] Manager Al [1:58:13] Francis Chua. [1:58:14] Another athlete [1:58:15] applying for [1:58:16] Philippine [1:58:17] citizenship is [1:58:19] Mr. [1:58:20] Matthew James [1:58:20] Ramos, a 25-year-old [1:58:22] Filipino-American [1:58:23] wrestler born in [1:58:25] Naperville, Illinois. [1:58:27] Matthew traces his [1:58:28] Philippine roots from [1:58:29] his father, [1:58:31] Crisante [1:58:31] Olanday Ramos, [1:58:33] a resident of [1:58:33] Barangay Poblasyon [1:58:35] Basista, [1:58:36] Pangasinan. [1:58:38] He is the [1:58:38] 2022 U.S. [1:58:39] Open Champion [1:58:40] and 2022 NCAA [1:58:42] Championship [1:58:43] Round of 12. [1:58:45] Matthew has [1:58:45] expressed his [1:58:46] earnest intention [1:58:47] to become a [1:58:48] naturalized [1:58:49] Filipino citizen [1:58:50] in order to [1:58:51] proudly represent [1:58:52] the Philippines [1:58:53] in international [1:58:54] wrestling competitions. [1:58:56] His desire to [1:58:57] carry the [1:58:58] Philippine flag [1:58:58] on the global [1:58:59] stage reflects [1:59:00] not only his [1:59:01] personal affinity [1:59:02] for his [1:59:03] Filipino roots [1:59:04] but also his [1:59:05] commitment to [1:59:06] contribute to [1:59:06] the nation's [1:59:07] sports development. [1:59:09] Granting Filipino [1:59:10] citizenship to [1:59:11] Benny Boatwright [1:59:12] and James [1:59:13] Matthew Ramos [1:59:14] serves as a [1:59:15] recognition of [1:59:15] their dedication, [1:59:17] exemplary talent, [1:59:18] and earnest [1:59:19] desire to [1:59:20] represent the [1:59:20] Philippines in [1:59:21] international [1:59:22] competitions. [1:59:24] As a staunch [1:59:24] advocate of [1:59:25] basketball and [1:59:26] sports in [1:59:26] general, [1:59:27] this [1:59:28] representation has [1:59:29] been [1:59:29] continuously [1:59:30] supporting [1:59:30] measures that [1:59:31] will improve [1:59:32] the conditions [1:59:33] of Filipino [1:59:33] athletes and [1:59:34] to make [1:59:34] them globally [1:59:35] competitive [1:59:36] because we [1:59:37] hope that [1:59:39] Philippine [1:59:40] sports, [1:59:41] basketball, [1:59:42] or wrestling [1:59:42] will be [1:59:42] in the [1:59:44] world. [1:59:45] With this, [1:59:46] Madam [1:59:46] President, [1:59:47] this [1:59:47] representation [1:59:48] supports the [1:59:49] granting of [1:59:49] Philippine [1:59:50] citizenship to [1:59:52] both Benny [1:59:52] Francois [1:59:53] Boatwright III [1:59:54] and Matthew [1:59:54] James Ramos. [1:59:55] Thank you, [1:59:56] Madam [1:59:56] President. [1:59:58] Thank you, [1:59:59] Senator [1:59:59] Gingoy Estrada, [2:00:02] Majority Leader. [2:00:05] Senator [2:00:06] Pia Cayetano will [2:00:07] deliver a [2:00:08] co-sponsorship [2:00:08] speech. [2:00:09] Thank you, [2:00:10] Madam [2:00:10] President. [2:00:15] Madam [2:00:16] President, [2:00:16] I rise to [2:00:17] co-sponsor [2:00:17] House Bill [2:00:18] number 6639 [2:00:19] under [2:00:19] Committee [2:00:20] Report [2:00:20] number 61, [2:00:21] granting [2:00:22] Philippine [2:00:22] citizenship [2:00:23] to Benny [2:00:23] Francois [2:00:24] Boatwright III, [2:00:26] and House [2:00:26] Bill [2:00:26] number 6644 [2:00:27] under [2:00:28] Committee [2:00:28] Report [2:00:28] number 62, [2:00:30] granting [2:00:30] Philippine [2:00:30] citizenship [2:00:31] to Matthew [2:00:32] James [2:00:32] Ramos. [2:00:34] For [2:00:34] Benny [2:00:35] Francois [2:00:35] Boatwright, [2:00:36] as the [2:00:37] primary [2:00:37] author of [2:00:38] Senate [2:00:38] Bill [2:00:38] number 1595, [2:00:41] the [2:00:41] Samahang [2:00:41] Basketball [2:00:42] ng [2:00:42] Pilipinas, [2:00:43] SBP, [2:00:43] requested this [2:00:44] representation [2:00:45] to file [2:00:45] this bill [2:00:46] as it [2:00:47] is a [2:00:47] crucial [2:00:47] step [2:00:48] toward [2:00:48] further [2:00:49] strengthening [2:00:50] our [2:00:50] national [2:00:51] basketball [2:00:51] program. [2:00:53] Since [2:00:53] joining [2:00:53] the [2:00:54] San [2:00:54] Miguel [2:00:54] Beerman [2:00:54] in [2:00:55] December [2:00:55] 2023, [2:00:57] Boatwright [2:00:57] has proven [2:00:58] to be [2:00:58] more [2:00:58] than just [2:00:59] a [2:00:59] talented [2:00:59] player. [2:01:00] His [2:01:00] impact [2:01:01] and [2:01:01] presence [2:01:01] on [2:01:01] the [2:01:02] court [2:01:02] was [2:01:02] deeply [2:01:02] felt [2:01:03] by [2:01:03] Filipino [2:01:03] fans. [2:01:04] He has [2:01:05] demonstrated [2:01:05] what it [2:01:07] truly means [2:01:07] to contribute [2:01:08] to [2:01:08] Philippine [2:01:09] sports [2:01:09] with [2:01:10] excellence, [2:01:11] consistency, [2:01:12] and a [2:01:12] heart that [2:01:13] has clearly [2:01:13] found a [2:01:14] home here. [2:01:15] In fact, [2:01:16] Boatwright's [2:01:16] connection to [2:01:17] our people [2:01:17] predates his [2:01:18] professional [2:01:18] career. [2:01:19] Growing [2:01:20] up, he [2:01:20] was surrounded [2:01:21] by our [2:01:21] community [2:01:22] and culture [2:01:22] and had [2:01:23] many [2:01:23] Filipino [2:01:24] friends. [2:01:25] This [2:01:26] natural [2:01:26] bond [2:01:26] with our [2:01:27] heritage [2:01:27] is exactly [2:01:28] why he [2:01:29] has [2:01:29] integrated [2:01:29] so seamlessly [2:01:31] into our [2:01:32] local [2:01:32] basketball [2:01:32] scene. [2:01:33] Since [2:01:34] first [2:01:34] arriving [2:01:35] in 2023, [2:01:36] Boatwright has [2:01:36] consistently [2:01:37] chosen to [2:01:38] return to [2:01:39] the Philippines, [2:01:39] not merely [2:01:40] as a place [2:01:41] of work, [2:01:42] but as a [2:01:42] community [2:01:42] with which [2:01:43] he has [2:01:44] formed a [2:01:45] genuine [2:01:45] and lasting [2:01:45] bond. [2:01:46] His [2:01:46] contribution [2:01:47] does not [2:01:47] end in [2:01:48] the PBA. [2:01:49] If [2:01:49] naturalized, [2:01:50] he will [2:01:50] play for [2:01:51] Gilas [2:01:51] Pilipinas [2:01:52] in the [2:01:53] Asian [2:01:53] Games, [2:01:54] the [2:01:54] Sea [2:01:54] Games, [2:01:55] and in [2:01:55] the [2:01:55] 2028 [2:01:56] Olympic [2:01:57] qualifying [2:01:58] cycle [2:01:58] for the [2:01:59] 2028 [2:01:59] LA [2:02:00] Olympics. [2:02:01] Ultimately, [2:02:02] Boatwright's [2:02:03] value to [2:02:03] this nation [2:02:04] goes far [2:02:04] beyond his [2:02:05] performance [2:02:05] on the [2:02:06] court. [2:02:06] His [2:02:07] genuine [2:02:07] love and [2:02:08] affection for [2:02:08] our people, [2:02:09] our culture, [2:02:10] and even [2:02:10] our food is [2:02:11] something that [2:02:12] cannot be [2:02:12] coached. [2:02:14] For [2:02:15] Matthew [2:02:15] James [2:02:15] Ramos, [2:02:16] a 25-year-old [2:02:17] Filipino-American [2:02:18] elite wrestler [2:02:19] who traced [2:02:20] his heritage [2:02:20] to his [2:02:21] father, [2:02:22] Crisente [2:02:22] Holanday [2:02:23] Ramos of [2:02:24] Basista [2:02:25] Pangasinan, [2:02:26] he intended [2:02:27] to become a [2:02:27] naturalized [2:02:28] citizen to [2:02:29] officially [2:02:29] represent the [2:02:30] Philippines in [2:02:31] international [2:02:32] combat sports [2:02:33] competition, [2:02:34] being supported [2:02:34] by the [2:02:35] Wrestling [2:02:35] Association of [2:02:36] the [2:02:36] Philippines. [2:02:38] Ramos holds [2:02:38] an exceptional [2:02:39] athletic record, [2:02:40] highlighted by [2:02:41] being crowned [2:02:42] the 2018 [2:02:43] Cadet World [2:02:44] Champion, [2:02:45] winning the [2:02:45] 2022 U.S. [2:02:47] Open [2:02:47] Championships, [2:02:48] and finishing [2:02:48] as the [2:02:49] 2023 [2:02:50] National [2:02:51] Collegiate [2:02:52] Athletic [2:02:53] Association, [2:02:53] NCAA, [2:02:54] national runner-up [2:02:55] for Purdue [2:02:56] University, [2:02:57] where he [2:02:57] earned [2:02:58] all-American [2:02:58] honors. [2:03:00] Demonstrating [2:03:00] a rare [2:03:01] balance of [2:03:01] athletic and [2:03:02] academic rigor, [2:03:03] he maintained [2:03:03] his standing [2:03:04] as a two-time [2:03:05] national wrestling [2:03:06] coaches association [2:03:07] scholar, [2:03:09] all-American, [2:03:10] and was [2:03:10] recognized as [2:03:11] one of the [2:03:11] 2024 [2:03:12] outstanding [2:03:13] seniors by [2:03:13] Purdue's [2:03:14] College of [2:03:15] Health and [2:03:15] Human Sciences. [2:03:17] Crucially, [2:03:18] he brings [2:03:18] his elite [2:03:19] coaching [2:03:19] expertise [2:03:20] back home, [2:03:21] committing [2:03:21] to train, [2:03:22] mentor, [2:03:23] and uplift [2:03:23] local [2:03:24] Filipino [2:03:24] wrestlers. [2:03:25] His [2:03:26] naturalization [2:03:26] promises to [2:03:27] elevate the [2:03:28] Philippines on [2:03:29] the global [2:03:30] wrestling stage [2:03:31] and serve as [2:03:31] a powerful [2:03:32] inspiration to [2:03:33] the Filipino [2:03:33] youth. [2:03:36] In closing, [2:03:39] granting [2:03:39] citizenship to [2:03:40] Boatwright and [2:03:41] Ramos, [2:03:41] who have both [2:03:42] demonstrated [2:03:42] excellence and [2:03:43] commitment to [2:03:44] the Philippines, [2:03:44] is a recognition [2:03:45] of the value [2:03:46] they bring to [2:03:47] our collective [2:03:47] aspirations. [2:03:49] I've always [2:03:49] believed that [2:03:50] sports is more [2:03:51] than just a [2:03:51] game, it is a [2:03:52] platform, it is a [2:03:53] platform for our [2:03:54] youth to see [2:03:55] what excellence [2:03:56] looks like in [2:03:57] action. [2:03:57] Being an [2:03:58] athlete has [2:03:58] taught me [2:03:59] important life [2:04:00] values such [2:04:01] as discipline, [2:04:02] teamwork, time [2:04:03] management, and [2:04:03] commitment, all [2:04:05] of which I use [2:04:05] to this day. [2:04:06] These are the [2:04:07] same standards [2:04:08] we now set [2:04:08] forth for [2:04:09] Boatwright and [2:04:11] Ramos as they [2:04:11] prepare to [2:04:12] raise the [2:04:13] Philippine flag. [2:04:14] I ask for your [2:04:15] support, my dear [2:04:16] colleagues. [2:04:17] Thank you, Madam [2:04:18] President. [2:04:19] Thank you, [2:04:20] Senator Pia [2:04:20] Caetano. [2:04:22] For another [2:04:22] co-sponsorship [2:04:23] speech, we [2:04:25] recognize Senator [2:04:25] Bongo. [2:04:27] Mr. [2:04:28] President, [2:04:29] esteemed [2:04:29] colleagues, as [2:04:30] one of the [2:04:31] authors of the [2:04:32] bills in [2:04:33] consideration, I [2:04:35] rise today to [2:04:36] co-sponsor the [2:04:37] measures granting [2:04:39] Philippine [2:04:39] citizenship to [2:04:41] Mr. [2:04:41] Benny Boatwright [2:04:42] III and Mr. [2:04:44] Matthew James [2:04:45] Ramos. [2:04:46] At the outset, [2:04:47] allow me to [2:04:48] express my full [2:04:49] support for these [2:04:50] measures and [2:04:51] thank the [2:04:51] sponsor, Senator [2:04:52] Kiko Pangilinan, [2:04:53] for prioritizing [2:04:55] these measures. [2:04:57] The grant of [2:04:58] Philippine [2:04:58] citizenship [2:04:59] through [2:05:01] is a power [2:05:03] recognized [2:05:06] under our [2:05:08] constitution [2:05:08] and exercised [2:05:10] by Congress [2:05:12] in favor of [2:05:16] individuals who [2:05:17] have shown not [2:05:18] only merit and [2:05:19] competence, but [2:05:20] also a sincere [2:05:21] commitment to serve [2:05:22] the Filipino [2:05:22] nation. [2:05:24] Citizenship is [2:05:25] more than a [2:05:26] legal status. [2:05:28] It is a [2:05:28] bond of [2:05:29] loyalty, [2:05:29] responsibility, [2:05:31] and shared [2:05:31] purpose. [2:05:32] In the case of [2:05:33] these two [2:05:34] athletes, we [2:05:35] see individuals [2:05:35] who are [2:05:36] willing to [2:05:37] carry our [2:05:37] flag, represent [2:05:39] our people, [2:05:40] and contribute [2:05:40] to the [2:05:41] continuing [2:05:42] development of [2:05:43] Philippine [2:05:43] sports. [2:05:45] Mr. [2:05:45] Benny Boatwright [2:05:47] has already [2:05:47] made a strong [2:05:48] mark in [2:05:49] Philippine [2:05:49] basketball. [2:05:51] Napapanood [2:05:52] PBA, [2:05:55] the ongoing [2:05:57] PBA. [2:05:58] So, [2:05:59] they were [2:05:59] eliminated [2:06:01] just last [2:06:03] Saturday or [2:06:06] Sunday. [2:06:07] But, [2:06:08] anyway, [2:06:09] since joining [2:06:10] the San [2:06:11] Miguel [2:06:11] Beerman [2:06:11] in 2023 [2:06:13] PBA [2:06:13] Commissioners [2:06:14] Cup, [2:06:15] he has [2:06:15] shown [2:06:15] exceptional [2:06:16] talent, [2:06:17] professionalism, [2:06:18] and leadership [2:06:19] on the [2:06:19] court. [2:06:20] His [2:06:21] contribution [2:06:21] helped [2:06:22] the team [2:06:22] capture [2:06:23] the [2:06:23] championship, [2:06:24] and [2:06:24] his [2:06:24] performance [2:06:25] proved [2:06:26] that he [2:06:27] can be [2:06:27] a valuable [2:06:27] addition [2:06:28] to the [2:06:28] future [2:06:29] of [2:06:29] Philippine [2:06:29] basketball. [2:06:30] As a [2:06:31] potential [2:06:31] naturalized [2:06:32] player [2:06:33] for [2:06:33] Gilas [2:06:34] Pilipinas, [2:06:35] yun po [2:06:36] ang [2:06:36] pinakakulang [2:06:38] ngayon [2:06:39] natin [2:06:39] since [2:06:40] yung [2:06:43] mainstay [2:06:44] natin [2:06:44] sa Gilas [2:06:45] Pilipinas [2:06:45] na naturalized [2:06:46] player [2:06:47] na si [2:06:47] Justin [2:06:48] Brownlee [2:06:49] ay hindi [2:06:49] na rin [2:06:49] po [2:06:50] bumabata. [2:06:51] Kailangan [2:06:51] natin [2:06:52] ng [2:06:52] batang [2:06:53] naturalized [2:06:54] player. [2:06:55] Mr. [2:06:56] Botwright [2:06:56] brings [2:06:57] size, [2:06:58] skill, [2:06:59] discipline, [2:06:59] and [2:06:59] experience [2:07:00] that can [2:07:00] strengthen [2:07:01] our [2:07:01] national [2:07:02] team [2:07:02] in [2:07:03] international [2:07:03] competitions. [2:07:04] Pareho sila [2:07:05] ni [2:07:05] Brownlee. [2:07:07] May mga [2:07:08] three points [2:07:08] shooting [2:07:10] rin po ito. [2:07:11] Magaling [2:07:12] sa three points. [2:07:13] His [2:07:13] possible [2:07:14] inclusion [2:07:14] will not [2:07:15] only [2:07:15] improve [2:07:16] our [2:07:17] competitiveness, [2:07:18] but will [2:07:18] also contribute [2:07:19] to our [2:07:20] longstanding [2:07:20] dream of [2:07:21] seeing the [2:07:22] Philippines [2:07:22] stand [2:07:23] proudly [2:07:23] among the [2:07:25] best [2:07:25] basketball [2:07:25] nations [2:07:26] in the [2:07:26] world. [2:07:27] Lalong-lalo [2:07:28] na po [2:07:28] ngayon [2:07:28] na napanalunan [2:07:29] po natin [2:07:30] ang first [2:07:31] ever [2:07:31] gold [2:07:32] since [2:07:32] 1962. [2:07:38] After [2:07:38] 63 years [2:07:40] tayo [2:07:41] na nalo [2:07:41] muli [2:07:42] sa [2:07:42] Asian [2:07:43] Games [2:07:44] noong [2:07:45] 2023 [2:07:46] Asian [2:07:47] Games. [2:07:48] And we [2:07:48] are now [2:07:49] the [2:07:49] defending [2:07:50] champion. [2:07:51] Paalala [2:07:52] ko lang [2:07:52] po [2:07:52] kay [2:07:53] Mr. [2:07:53] Botwright [2:07:53] as you [2:07:54] take [2:07:54] on [2:07:56] this [2:07:56] role. [2:07:58] I mean [2:07:58] just a [2:07:59] reminder [2:07:59] to you. [2:08:01] You are [2:08:01] expected [2:08:01] to [2:08:02] maintain [2:08:02] your [2:08:02] health [2:08:03] and [2:08:03] fitness [2:08:04] at [2:08:04] all [2:08:04] times. [2:08:06] Be [2:08:06] always [2:08:06] fit. [2:08:09] Being [2:08:09] part [2:08:10] of [2:08:10] the [2:08:10] national [2:08:10] team [2:08:11] is [2:08:11] not [2:08:11] just [2:08:11] an [2:08:12] opportunity. [2:08:13] It [2:08:13] is [2:08:13] a [2:08:14] responsibility [2:08:14] that [2:08:15] calls [2:08:15] for [2:08:15] dedication, [2:08:16] sacrifice, [2:08:17] and [2:08:17] excellence. [2:08:19] Always [2:08:19] bear [2:08:19] in [2:08:20] mind [2:08:20] your [2:08:20] duty [2:08:21] to [2:08:21] support [2:08:21] and [2:08:21] elevate [2:08:22] the [2:08:22] team [2:08:22] guided [2:08:24] by [2:08:24] discipline [2:08:24] in [2:08:25] everything [2:08:25] you [2:08:26] do [2:08:26] both [2:08:27] on [2:08:28] and [2:08:28] off [2:08:29] the [2:08:29] field. [2:08:31] You [2:08:31] must [2:08:31] consistently [2:08:32] keep [2:08:32] yourself [2:08:33] in [2:08:33] peak [2:08:34] condition. [2:08:36] I mean [2:08:36] prepared [2:08:37] to [2:08:38] perform [2:08:39] and [2:08:39] compete [2:08:40] at [2:08:40] the [2:08:40] highest [2:08:41] level. [2:08:43] Always [2:08:43] eat [2:08:44] Filipino [2:08:44] food. [2:08:47] Try [2:08:47] to [2:08:48] eat [2:08:48] bulad [2:08:49] also. [2:08:50] My [2:08:50] favorite. [2:08:52] Likewise, [2:08:52] we also [2:08:53] recognize [2:08:53] Mr. [2:08:54] Matthew [2:08:54] James [2:08:55] Ramos, [2:08:56] a [2:08:56] Filipino [2:08:56] American [2:08:57] wrestler, [2:08:57] whose [2:08:58] Filipino [2:08:58] roots [2:08:59] trace [2:08:59] back [2:09:00] to [2:09:00] Pangasinan [2:09:00] through [2:09:01] his [2:09:01] father. [2:09:02] Ito [2:09:02] talaga, [2:09:03] nanggaling [2:09:04] po ito [2:09:04] sa [2:09:05] Pangasinan [2:09:06] at [2:09:07] pride [2:09:08] natin [2:09:08] ito. [2:09:10] Mr. [2:09:10] Ramos [2:09:11] has [2:09:11] clearly [2:09:11] expressed [2:09:12] his [2:09:12] desire [2:09:13] to [2:09:13] become [2:09:13] a [2:09:13] Filipino [2:09:14] citizen [2:09:14] and [2:09:15] to [2:09:15] represent [2:09:16] the [2:09:16] Philippines [2:09:16] in [2:09:17] international [2:09:17] wrestling [2:09:18] competitions. [2:09:20] This [2:09:20] desire [2:09:21] is not [2:09:21] only [2:09:22] merely [2:09:22] symbolic, [2:09:24] it [2:09:24] reflects [2:09:24] his [2:09:25] respect [2:09:25] for [2:09:25] his [2:09:26] Filipino [2:09:26] heritage, [2:09:27] his [2:09:28] connection [2:09:28] to our [2:09:28] people, [2:09:29] and his [2:09:29] willingness [2:09:30] to bring [2:09:30] honor [2:09:31] to the [2:09:31] country [2:09:32] through [2:09:32] his [2:09:33] chosen [2:09:33] sport. [2:09:36] It's [2:09:37] really good to [2:09:37] his [2:09:37] decision [2:09:39] to represent [2:09:42] the [2:09:43] Philippines. [2:09:44] With [2:09:45] athletes [2:09:45] like [2:09:46] Mr. [2:09:46] Ramos, [2:09:47] we have [2:09:47] an [2:09:47] opportunity [2:09:48] to [2:09:48] further [2:09:48] develop [2:09:49] the [2:09:49] sport [2:09:49] which [2:09:50] will [2:09:50] open [2:09:51] more [2:09:51] doors [2:09:51] for [2:09:52] Filipino [2:09:52] wrestlers [2:09:53] and [2:09:53] raise [2:09:54] our [2:09:54] standing [2:09:54] in [2:09:55] regional [2:09:55] and [2:09:56] international [2:09:56] tournaments. [2:09:58] Mr. [2:09:58] President, [2:09:59] as [2:09:59] chairperson [2:10:00] of the [2:10:00] committee [2:10:00] on [2:10:03] sport, [2:10:04] I [2:10:04] believe [2:10:05] that [2:10:05] our [2:10:05] duty [2:10:05] is not [2:10:06] only [2:10:06] to [2:10:07] support [2:10:07] athletes [2:10:08] who [2:10:08] already [2:10:09] bring [2:10:10] honor [2:10:10] to [2:10:10] the [2:10:11] country, [2:10:11] but [2:10:12] also [2:10:12] to [2:10:13] strengthen [2:10:13] the [2:10:13] systems [2:10:14] and [2:10:14] opportunities [2:10:14] that [2:10:15] will [2:10:15] allow [2:10:15] Philippine [2:10:16] sports [2:10:16] to [2:10:17] grow. [2:10:18] The [2:10:18] naturalization [2:10:19] of Mr. [2:10:20] Botwright [2:10:20] and Mr. [2:10:21] Ramos [2:10:21] forms [2:10:22] part of [2:10:23] this [2:10:23] broader [2:10:23] effort. [2:10:25] It [2:10:25] allows [2:10:25] us [2:10:26] to [2:10:26] build [2:10:26] stronger [2:10:27] national [2:10:27] teams, [2:10:29] expand [2:10:29] our [2:10:30] national [2:10:30] talent [2:10:31] pool, [2:10:32] and [2:10:32] inspire [2:10:32] young [2:10:33] Filipinos [2:10:33] to [2:10:34] dream [2:10:34] bigger, [2:10:35] train [2:10:36] harder, [2:10:37] and [2:10:37] believe [2:10:37] that [2:10:37] they [2:10:38] too [2:10:38] can [2:10:39] represent [2:10:39] the [2:10:39] country [2:10:40] with [2:10:41] pride [2:10:41] and [2:10:42] excellence. [2:10:44] These [2:10:44] measures [2:10:44] are not [2:10:45] simply [2:10:45] about [2:10:46] granting [2:10:46] citizenship [2:10:47] to [2:10:47] two [2:10:47] deserving [2:10:48] individuals. [2:10:50] They [2:10:50] are [2:10:50] also [2:10:51] about [2:10:51] investing [2:10:52] in [2:10:52] Philippine [2:10:52] sports [2:10:53] and [2:10:53] recognizing [2:10:54] those [2:10:54] who [2:10:55] are [2:10:56] ready [2:10:56] to [2:10:56] serve [2:10:57] and [2:10:57] honor [2:10:57] the [2:10:58] Filipino [2:10:59] flag. [2:11:00] Thank [2:11:01] you [2:11:01] Mr. [2:11:02] President. [2:11:03] Thank [2:11:04] you [2:11:04] Madam [2:11:04] President. [2:11:05] Thank [2:11:05] you [2:11:05] very [2:11:06] much [2:11:06] Senator [2:11:06] Bong [2:11:07] Go. [2:11:08] Majority [2:11:08] Leader. [2:11:09] Madam [2:11:09] President, [2:11:10] to allow [2:11:10] our [2:11:10] colleagues [2:11:11] to [2:11:11] further [2:11:12] study [2:11:13] the [2:11:13] measure, [2:11:14] I move [2:11:14] that we [2:11:15] suspend [2:11:15] consideration [2:11:17] of the [2:11:17] aforementioned [2:11:18] bill. [2:11:18] I so [2:11:19] move, [2:11:19] Madam [2:11:19] President. [2:11:20] Any [2:11:20] objection? [2:11:21] Hearing [2:11:21] none? [2:11:24] Senator [2:11:24] Migs [2:11:25] Zubiri, [2:11:25] our [2:11:25] former [2:11:25] Senate [2:11:26] President [2:11:26] is [2:11:26] seeking [2:11:27] the floor. [2:11:27] I move [2:11:27] that he [2:11:28] be [2:11:28] recognized [2:11:29] Madam [2:11:29] President. [2:11:30] Recognize [2:11:30] Senator [2:11:30] Migs [2:11:31] Zubiri. [2:11:31] Thank [2:11:31] you [2:11:31] Madam [2:11:32] Tita [2:11:32] Ganda [2:11:32] of the [2:11:33] Senate. [2:11:34] Nice [2:11:34] to see [2:11:34] you [2:11:34] smiling. [2:11:35] I had [2:11:37] a lack [2:11:37] of sleep [2:11:38] yesterday [2:11:38] Madam [2:11:39] President. [2:11:40] That's why [2:11:40] I was [2:11:40] not up [2:11:41] to speed [2:11:42] with what [2:11:42] was [2:11:42] happening. [2:11:43] But [2:11:43] anyway [2:11:43] Madam [2:11:44] President, [2:11:46] I just [2:11:48] wanted to [2:11:48] raise, [2:11:48] not an [2:11:49] issue, [2:11:49] I am fully [2:11:50] supportive of [2:11:50] these two [2:11:51] gentlemen [2:11:51] that will [2:11:52] be taking [2:11:52] their, [2:11:53] hopefully, [2:11:54] their oath [2:11:54] as Filipino [2:11:55] citizens. [2:11:55] But one [2:11:56] of them [2:11:56] happens to [2:11:57] be a son [2:11:58] of a [2:11:58] Filipino, [2:12:00] Mr. [2:12:00] Ramos, [2:12:01] the wrestler. [2:12:02] And I was [2:12:03] talking to my [2:12:04] colleagues, [2:12:04] my dear friend [2:12:05] Alvin Aguilar is [2:12:06] here from the [2:12:06] Wrestling NSA. [2:12:07] We're together [2:12:08] with the [2:12:08] NSA, [2:12:10] he's for [2:12:11] wrestling and [2:12:11] I'm for [2:12:11] Arnie's. [2:12:12] And I was [2:12:13] saying to [2:12:14] Senator Kiko [2:12:15] Pangilinan, [2:12:16] that he used to [2:12:17] be the chairman [2:12:17] of the [2:12:18] Committee on [2:12:18] Justice, [2:12:19] that maybe [2:12:20] we can [2:12:20] make [2:12:20] an [2:12:21] amendment [2:12:22] or we [2:12:23] can have [2:12:23] amendments [2:12:24] to the [2:12:25] dual [2:12:26] citizenship [2:12:27] law. [2:12:28] Kasi kung [2:12:28] automatic na [2:12:29] dapat kung [2:12:30] yung nanay mo [2:12:31] o tatay mo [2:12:32] ay Pilipino, [2:12:34] bakit pang [2:12:34] dadaan sa [2:12:35] ganitong [2:12:35] proseso? [2:12:36] Dapat [2:12:36] automatic, [2:12:37] under the [2:12:37] old law [2:12:38] that [2:12:38] Senator [2:12:38] Frank [2:12:39] Dillon [2:12:39] passed, [2:12:40] apparently, [2:12:41] there was [2:12:41] a timeline, [2:12:42] like a [2:12:43] cut-off [2:12:44] date, [2:12:44] that [2:12:45] everybody [2:12:46] who had [2:12:46] were [2:12:48] older [2:12:48] and [2:12:49] like [2:12:50] they're [2:12:50] already [2:12:50] adults [2:12:50] that [2:12:51] wanted [2:12:51] to be [2:12:52] Filipino [2:12:52] citizens [2:12:54] again or [2:12:54] be dual [2:12:55] citizens, [2:12:56] there was [2:12:56] a cut-off [2:12:56] date. [2:12:57] I think [2:12:58] it's [2:12:58] about [2:12:58] time [2:12:58] we [2:12:59] revisit [2:12:59] that [2:12:59] law, [2:13:00] Madam [2:13:01] President, [2:13:01] to our [2:13:01] colleagues [2:13:02] that are [2:13:02] listening [2:13:02] today, [2:13:03] whoever [2:13:04] will be [2:13:04] the chairman [2:13:04] of the [2:13:05] Committee [2:13:05] on [2:13:05] Justice, [2:13:07] and let's [2:13:07] amend it, [2:13:08] let's [2:13:08] just make [2:13:08] it [2:13:08] automatic, [2:13:09] because [2:13:09] I was [2:13:10] in Japan [2:13:10] recently, [2:13:11] I met [2:13:12] a lot [2:13:12] of OFWs [2:13:13] who were [2:13:14] not able [2:13:14] to apply, [2:13:16] there's [2:13:17] online, [2:13:18] there's [2:13:18] dual [2:13:19] citizenship, [2:13:20] because [2:13:20] of that [2:13:21] cut-off [2:13:22] date. [2:13:22] I think [2:13:23] Madam [2:13:24] Chair, [2:13:24] it's [2:13:24] a time [2:13:24] that we [2:13:25] revisit [2:13:25] the [2:13:25] law, [2:13:26] and so [2:13:26] as long [2:13:27] as you [2:13:27] can prove [2:13:27] that your [2:13:28] mother [2:13:28] or your [2:13:29] father [2:13:29] is [2:13:29] Filipino, [2:13:30] automatic [2:13:31] take [2:13:31] the [2:13:31] dual [2:13:33] citizenship. [2:13:33] Thank you. [2:13:35] Thank you. [2:13:35] Thank you. [2:13:35] Thank you. [2:13:35] Thank you. [2:13:35] Thank you. [2:13:35] Thank you. [2:13:36] Thank you. [2:13:36] Thank you. [2:13:36] This [2:13:36] representation [2:13:37] would be [2:13:37] happy to [2:13:38] support [2:13:38] a bill. [2:13:39] I just [2:13:40] asked [2:13:40] now the [2:13:41] secretariat, [2:13:42] there is [2:13:42] no [2:13:42] amendment [2:13:43] to the [2:13:43] dual [2:13:44] citizenship [2:13:44] law, [2:13:45] and [2:13:46] if [2:13:47] they can [2:13:48] help us [2:13:48] draft [2:13:49] amendment [2:13:50] to the [2:13:51] dual [2:13:51] citizenship, [2:13:52] then [2:13:52] perhaps [2:13:53] Senator [2:13:54] Subiri [2:13:54] can be [2:13:55] one of [2:13:55] the [2:13:55] principal [2:13:56] authors of [2:13:57] the [2:13:57] measure. [2:13:59] Thank [2:13:59] you. [2:14:01] Majority [2:14:02] leader. [2:14:03] Yes, [2:14:08] Madam [2:14:08] President, [2:14:09] may I [2:14:10] move again [2:14:11] to [2:14:11] consider [2:14:12] Senate [2:14:13] Bill [2:14:14] No. [2:14:14] 1511 [2:14:15] under [2:14:16] Committee [2:14:16] Report [2:14:17] No. [2:14:17] 15, [2:14:18] and [2:14:18] this [2:14:18] is [2:14:19] the [2:14:19] bill [2:14:19] strengthening [2:14:19] the [2:14:20] protection [2:14:20] of [2:14:21] patients [2:14:21] against [2:14:22] hospital [2:14:23] detention. [2:14:24] So [2:14:24] move, [2:14:24] Madam [2:14:25] President. [2:14:26] Have [2:14:26] we? [2:14:28] You've [2:14:28] moved [2:14:29] already [2:14:29] for the [2:14:30] I [2:14:30] did. [2:14:30] I [2:14:30] did, [2:14:30] Madam [2:14:31] President. [2:14:31] And [2:14:31] the [2:14:31] motion [2:14:31] was [2:14:32] approved. [2:14:32] Yes. [2:14:33] Already [2:14:33] approved [2:14:34] that we [2:14:34] revert [2:14:35] back [2:14:35] and [2:14:36] recognize [2:14:36] Senator [2:14:37] Ontiveros, [2:14:38] the [2:14:38] sponsor [2:14:38] of [2:14:39] the [2:14:39] measure. [2:14:44] May [2:14:44] we [2:14:44] recognize [2:14:45] again [2:14:45] the [2:14:45] answer. [2:14:45] Thank you, [2:14:45] Madam [2:14:46] President. [2:14:49] Thank you, [2:14:54] Madam [2:14:54] President. [2:14:56] If I [2:14:57] may, [2:14:57] Madam [2:14:57] President, [2:14:58] pending [2:15:00] confirmation [2:15:00] from the [2:15:01] gentlewoman [2:15:01] from [2:15:02] Taguigan [2:15:02] Pateros, [2:15:02] if my [2:15:03] proposed [2:15:04] formulation [2:15:05] of the [2:15:06] questions [2:15:07] he raised [2:15:08] and about [2:15:09] which he [2:15:10] will [2:15:10] formulate [2:15:11] an [2:15:11] amendment [2:15:11] is [2:15:12] already [2:15:12] acceptable [2:15:12] to [2:15:13] her. [2:15:14] May [2:15:14] I [2:15:14] seek [2:15:14] the [2:15:14] permission [2:15:15] of [2:15:15] Madam [2:15:16] President [2:15:16] to [2:15:16] proceed [2:15:17] with [2:15:17] the [2:15:17] amendments [2:15:18] of [2:15:18] Senator [2:15:18] Gachalian? [2:15:19] Please [2:15:19] proceed. [2:15:20] We [2:15:21] recognize [2:15:21] Senator [2:15:21] Pia Ketan [2:15:22] as well. [2:15:22] Yes, [2:15:23] Madam [2:15:24] President, [2:15:24] dear [2:15:25] sponsor, [2:15:25] on page [2:15:26] two, [2:15:26] between [2:15:26] line [2:15:27] 18 and [2:15:27] 19, [2:15:28] the [2:15:28] amendments [2:15:29] which [2:15:29] included [2:15:30] this [2:15:31] representations, [2:15:32] amendment [2:15:34] to the [2:15:35] amendment [2:15:35] to include [2:15:36] patient, [2:15:37] relative, [2:15:37] representative, [2:15:38] caregiver and [2:15:41] new [2:15:41] caregiver [2:15:42] is accepted [2:15:44] except that [2:15:45] some words [2:15:46] are plural [2:15:46] and some [2:15:47] words are [2:15:48] singular. [2:15:53] So may [2:15:54] Your Honor [2:15:54] just choose [2:15:55] will we go [2:15:56] with singular [2:15:56] or plural? [2:15:58] Thank you. [2:16:00] We will go with plural [2:16:01] Madam President [2:16:02] and subject to [2:16:03] style, [2:16:04] Madam President. [2:16:04] So thank [2:16:07] you, [2:16:07] Madam [2:16:08] President. [2:16:10] Senator [2:16:10] Ketano is [2:16:12] done with [2:16:12] our [2:16:12] amendments. [2:16:14] Yes. [2:16:17] All right. [2:16:19] I will [2:16:19] read the [2:16:20] whole text, [2:16:22] Madam [2:16:22] President, [2:16:23] as amended. [2:16:25] Okay. [2:16:27] So if I [2:16:28] may proceed, [2:16:29] Madam [2:16:29] President. [2:16:30] Session [2:16:31] suspended. [2:16:31] Yes, [2:16:31] Madam [2:16:32] President. [2:16:32] Minute [2:16:32] suspension. [2:16:33] We [2:24:48] recognize [2:24:48] once again [2:24:49] the [2:24:49] sponsor of [2:24:50] the [2:24:50] measure, [2:24:50] Senator [2:24:50] Lisa [2:24:51] Antevera. [2:24:52] Thank [2:25:03] you, [2:25:03] Madam [2:25:03] President. [2:25:04] Just to [2:25:05] read into [2:25:06] the record [2:25:07] the [2:25:08] earlier [2:25:09] discussed [2:25:09] and approved [2:25:10] amendment [2:25:10] of the [2:25:11] good [2:25:11] gentle [2:25:12] lady [2:25:12] from [2:25:12] Taguigan [2:25:13] Pateros, [2:25:14] that [2:25:15] provision [2:25:15] will now [2:25:16] read on [2:25:16] page 2 [2:25:17] between [2:25:18] lines 18 [2:25:19] and 19 [2:25:19] insert the [2:25:21] following [2:25:21] paragraph. [2:25:23] For [2:25:23] purposes of [2:25:24] this act, [2:25:25] detention [2:25:25] refers to [2:25:26] any act [2:25:27] of restraining [2:25:28] a person, [2:25:29] whether [2:25:29] a patient, [2:25:30] relative, [2:25:31] representative, [2:25:33] caregiver, [2:25:33] newborn or [2:25:35] deceased [2:25:36] person from [2:25:37] leaving a [2:25:37] hospital, [2:25:38] clinic or [2:25:39] similar facility [2:25:40] on the [2:25:41] ground of [2:25:41] non-payment [2:25:42] in whole or [2:25:43] in part of [2:25:44] a hospital [2:25:45] bills, [2:25:46] medical [2:25:46] expenses or [2:25:47] professional [2:25:48] fees. [2:25:49] It [2:25:49] includes the [2:25:49] refusal to [2:25:50] a physically [2:25:52] discharge a [2:25:52] patient or [2:25:53] issue documents [2:25:54] necessary for [2:25:55] discharge, [2:25:56] interment or [2:25:57] benefit claims. [2:25:58] remove medical [2:26:00] devices when [2:26:01] such removal is [2:26:02] medically [2:26:02] appropriate, [2:26:03] release personal [2:26:05] belongings, [2:26:06] and release [2:26:08] the [2:26:08] cadaver of [2:26:09] a deceased [2:26:10] patient to [2:26:10] the surviving [2:26:11] relatives. [2:26:12] So for [2:26:12] the record, [2:26:13] Madam Chair. [2:26:15] We therefore [2:26:17] approve the [2:26:18] amendment just [2:26:19] read by the [2:26:20] sponsor. [2:26:21] Thank you, [2:26:21] Madam Chair. [2:26:21] To proceed, [2:26:23] still on page [2:26:24] two from [2:26:25] Senator Gatchalian, [2:26:26] on page two, [2:26:27] line 30, [2:26:29] after the word [2:26:29] required, [2:26:31] delete the [2:26:31] preposition on [2:26:32] and replace [2:26:34] with preposition [2:26:35] of. [2:26:36] Further on the [2:26:37] same line, [2:26:38] delete the word [2:26:39] senior citizens [2:26:40] and replace with [2:26:41] the word [2:26:41] patients. [2:26:42] I so move. [2:26:45] No objection. [2:26:46] So approved. [2:26:47] Thank you, [2:26:47] Madam Chair. [2:26:48] Madam President. [2:26:49] Page three [2:26:50] amendments now. [2:26:51] Still from [2:26:52] Senator Gatchalian, [2:26:54] on page three, [2:26:55] line two, [2:26:56] after the word [2:26:57] development, [2:26:58] delete the [2:26:59] colon and [2:27:00] the phrase [2:27:01] provided further [2:27:03] that those [2:27:04] patients who are [2:27:05] partially recovered [2:27:06] shall sign a [2:27:07] waiver or [2:27:08] undertaking that [2:27:09] they are assuming [2:27:10] the risk of [2:27:11] the consequences [2:27:12] for requesting [2:27:14] for discharge [2:27:15] despite having [2:27:16] not fully [2:27:17] recovered. [2:27:17] I so move. [2:27:19] No objection. [2:27:20] Thank you, [2:27:21] Madam President. [2:27:22] We recognize [2:27:23] Senator. [2:27:23] Yes, [2:27:24] Madam President. [2:27:25] To repeat, [2:27:25] the motion [2:27:26] approved was to [2:27:27] delete from [2:27:28] colon and the [2:27:30] following phrase [2:27:31] up to the words [2:27:31] having not fully [2:27:32] recovered. [2:27:33] I would just [2:27:38] like to see it [2:27:38] in writing just [2:27:39] because I was [2:27:40] conferring with [2:27:41] my staff on [2:27:42] my amendment [2:27:42] on this same [2:27:44] item. [2:27:44] So I was not [2:27:45] able to capture [2:27:46] the actual [2:27:47] amendment. [2:27:48] It might be [2:27:48] the same as [2:27:49] mine. [2:27:49] It might be [2:27:49] different. [2:27:50] I need time [2:27:51] to just look [2:27:52] at the actual [2:27:52] amendment, [2:27:53] Madam President. [2:27:54] It is actually [2:27:55] different, [2:27:55] Madam President, [2:27:56] and it's supposed [2:27:56] to be the next [2:27:57] amendment that I [2:27:59] will read into [2:27:59] the record. [2:28:00] Also from [2:28:01] Senator Pia [2:28:02] Cayetano. [2:28:04] And I will [2:28:04] yield the [2:28:05] floor if the [2:28:06] good gentle [2:28:07] lady would [2:28:07] prefer to [2:28:08] read her [2:28:08] amendment, [2:28:09] Madam [2:28:09] President. [2:28:14] So I [2:28:15] understand my [2:28:16] amendment is [2:28:16] different, [2:28:17] but I do [2:28:17] have a [2:28:17] comment on [2:28:18] this [2:28:18] amendment. [2:28:19] If her [2:28:19] honor can [2:28:19] just give [2:28:20] me time, [2:28:20] a minute [2:28:20] suspension, [2:28:21] please. [2:28:21] Yes, [2:28:22] Madam [2:28:22] President. [2:28:24] Yes, [2:29:38] Madam [2:29:38] President, [2:29:40] as agreed [2:29:43] upon by our [2:29:45] minority [2:29:45] leader and [2:29:46] members present [2:29:47] here today in [2:29:48] this plenary, [2:29:49] may I just [2:29:50] respectfully move [2:29:51] that we [2:29:52] suspend [2:29:52] consideration of [2:29:54] Senate Bill [2:29:56] number 1511 [2:29:58] under committee [2:29:58] report number [2:29:59] 15 with the [2:30:02] commitment that [2:30:02] this will be [2:30:03] tackled as [2:30:05] first item [2:30:06] tomorrow, [2:30:08] Madam [2:30:08] President. [2:30:09] So move, [2:30:09] Madam [2:30:09] President. [2:30:10] No objection, [2:30:11] hearing none. [2:30:12] The consideration [2:30:13] of the measure [2:30:14] is hereby suspended [2:30:16] until tomorrow. [2:30:17] Thank you, [2:30:18] Madam [2:30:18] President. [2:30:18] Madam [2:30:25] President, [2:30:26] at this [2:30:26] juncture and [2:30:27] pursuant to [2:30:29] Rule 10, [2:30:29] Section 13 of [2:30:30] the rules of [2:30:30] the Senate, [2:30:31] may I respectfully [2:30:32] move to elect [2:30:33] Senator Mark [2:30:34] Villar as [2:30:35] Chairperson of [2:30:35] the Committee [2:30:36] on Finance, [2:30:37] Vice Senator [2:30:38] Win [2:30:38] Gatchalian. [2:30:39] So move, [2:30:39] Mr. [2:30:40] President. [2:30:41] Any objection? [2:30:42] Hearing none, [2:30:43] motion is [2:30:44] approved. [2:30:44] Thank you, [2:30:45] Madam [2:30:45] President. [2:30:47] Madam [2:30:48] President, [2:30:49] I move that [2:30:50] we adjourn the [2:30:51] session until [2:30:52] 3 o'clock in the [2:30:53] afternoon of [2:30:53] Wednesday, [2:30:54] May 20, [2:30:55] 2026. [2:30:56] So move. [2:30:57] Any objection? [2:30:59] Hearing none, [2:31:00] session is [2:31:00] adjourned until [2:31:01] 3 o'clock in the [2:31:02] afternoon of [2:31:03] Wednesday, [2:31:04] May 20, [2:31:05] 2026. [2:31:05] Thank you. [2:31:06] Thank you.