Manila: The Senate approved four significant legislative measures on Tuesday as it resumed the third regular session of the 19th Congress.
According to Philippines News Agency, the first measure unanimously approved was Senate Bill No. 2897, proposing amendments to Republic Act No. 11313, also known as the Safe Spaces Act. This bill aims to tackle gender-based online harassment involving artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies. Authored by Senators Cynthia Villar and Robinhood Padilla and sponsored by Senate Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros, the amendments extend the scope of harassment to virtual spaces and define grooming as predatory behavior targeting children or their guardians for abuse. The bill also expands the definition of public spaces to include rural areas, such as fields, farms, and coastal regions, and it mandates internet intermediaries to remove offending content within 24 hours upon notice. Violators could face fines of up to PHP100,000 or imprisonment for up to six months.
The Senate also approved Senate Bill No. 2825, known as the Phivolcs Modernization Act, which emphasizes the critical role of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology in monitoring seismic and volcanic hazards. Senator Joel Villanueva expressed support for the measure, highlighting the need to modernize Phivolcs’ equipment, technology, and workforce to expand its monitoring network, enhance research, and support professional growth.
Meanwhile, Senate Bill No. 2863, the Foreign Affairs Pension Differential Act, received full support from senators. Senator Loren Legarda, who principally authored the measure, stressed the importance of honoring retired Department of Foreign Affairs personnel. The bill adjusts the monthly pensions and disability benefits of retired DFA officers and employees, ensuring dignified living standards in retirement. Legarda emphasized that this move would also inspire current and future diplomats to uphold excellence and dedication.
Lastly, Senators Ramon Revilla Jr. and Robinhood Padilla praised the approval of Senate Bill No. 2816, which sets the term for elected barangay officials to four years. This bill, authored by Senator Imee Marcos, seeks to strengthen barangay governance and improve service delivery nationwide. Revilla highlighted the essential role of barangays as the ‘basic political unit and primary implementers of government policies and programs.’ Padilla added that the extended term would bring stability to local governance, reduce election frequency, and allow resources to be reallocated to meaningful government projects.
In addition to these four measures, senators unanimously approved House Bill No. 7406, which revises the Baguio City Charter.
