LIVE: Senate of the Philippines Regular Session I May 19, 2026

Added: 2026-05-25

[00:36:24]highlighted later.

[00:36:30]>> Thank you. Thank you.

[00:36:39]The 65th session of the Senate in the first regular session of the 20th Congress is hereby called to order.

[00:36:48]May we request former Senate President Minority Leader Senator Vicente Cisoto to lead the chamber in prayer.

[00:36:58]Heavenly Father, we come before you today with humble hearts, seeking your presence, your wisdom, and guidance.

[00:37:10]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.

[00:37:25]Lord, we we pray for integrity to prevail over dishonesty, for humility to overcome pride, and for truth to silence deception.

[00:37:41]May those entrusted with leadership walk in righteousness, accountability, and genuine concern for the common good.

[00:37:54]Grant us the courage to do what is right even when it is difficult.

[00:38:00]And dear God, give us wisdom to choose what is just over what is convenient.

[00:38:09]Protect our institutions and our nation from the influence of evil, corruption, greed, division, and selfish ambition.

[00:38:23]Father God, guard every mind and heart against temptation and guide all public servants to become instruments of peace, fairness, and compassion.

[00:38:38]Dear Lord, bless our nation with leaders who fear you, honor the truth, and serve with sincerity.

[00:38:49]Let justice, integrity, and loyalty for country and to the constitution rise above all personal interests.

[00:39:00]May everything we do today be guided by your wisdom and covered with your grace.

[00:39:08]All this we ask in your holy name. Amen.

[00:39:12]>> Amen. Thank you very much, Senator Sto.

[00:39:15]uh prayer that uh all of us should reflect on. Uh secretary, please call the role. Call please call the role.

[00:39:32]Roll call of members. The honorable Sen Senator Aino, Senator Kaitanopia, Senator Darosa, Senator Ehersito, Senator Escodero, Senator Estrada, Senator Gachalyang, Senator Go, Senator Ottoveros, Senator Latson, Senator Lapid, Senator Legarda, Senator Marcoa, Senator Marcos, Yes.

[00:40:06]Senator Padilia, Senator Pangilinan, Senator Sto, Senator Tulfo Irwin, Senator Tulfo Rafi, Senator Villanovva, Senator Villar Camille, Senator Villar Mark, Senator Zuviri, Senator President, Senate President Kaitano Allen is present.

[00:40:31]With 22 senators present, the chair declares the presence of a quorum.

[00:40:39]>> Mr. President, the leader.

[00:40:40]>> Thank you, Mr. President. Uh before we proceed, may I just be allowed to respectfully acknowledge some guests from the gallery. We have guests of our Senate President Alan Peter Kayatano, Mayor Samo of Pagadan City, who is here with us. guest of Senator Mig Zubiri Mababayan the pride of Bulakan Mr. Wanito Torres a well-known artist from the great town of Pulan Bulakan he's also with us guest of this representation Mr. President Counselor Jervy Cruz of Niwan Nevesia he he was the uh UAAP men's basketball most valuable player Mr. president uh from the USD growling tigers. We welcome all of them in this August chamber.

[00:41:27]President, >> thank you for being with us uh today. Uh >> next month, Mr. >> Majority Leader.

[00:41:33]>> Thank you, Mr. President. 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.

[00:41:47]Any objection hearing? None. The motion is approved.

[00:41:51]Mr. President, I move that we proceed with the reference of business.

[00:41:56]>> Is there any objection?

[00:41:59]There being none, the motion is approved. The secretary will now read the items in the reference of business.

[00:42:05]>> Bills on first reading. Senate bill number 2126, an act establishing the National Measurement Institute of the Philippines and appropriating funds.

[00:42:13]Therefore by Senator Lapid >> committee >> referred to the committee on science and technology civil service government reorganization and professional regulation ways and means and finance.

[00:42:30]Senate Bill Number 2127, an act extending the corporate life and expanding the powers of the Philippine International Trading Corporation, amending for the purpose PD number 1071, otherwise known as the revised charter of the Philippine International Trading Corporation by Senator Lapid.

[00:42:46]Referred to the committees on good refers to the committee on government corporation and public enterprise, trade, commerce, entrepreneurship and finance.

[00:42:57]Resolutions PSR 386 resolution congratulating and commending Albert Ian de los Santos for his historic gold medal performance and record-breaking feat in the men's 71 kilo kilogram category at the 2026 IWF Junior World Championship in ISMA Ilia Egypt by Senator Lapit >> referred to the committee on rules >> 387 resolution congratulating and commending Filipina tech leader Kat Borlongan for being honored as a night chef Year of the National Order of Merit Order National Dmerit by the Republic of France by Senator Lapid intro. Referred to the committee on rules >> 388 resolution urging the Department of Health to strengthen food safety, sanitation and public health measures following the discovery of drugresistant bacteria in street sold palamig beverages in Tondo, Manila by Senator Lapid.

[00:43:54]referred to the committee on health and demography >> 389 um resolution congratulating and commending team Filipinas and Senende of St. Pedro Pova College for winning the gold medal in the open hip hop division of the 2026 International Allstar Federation Dance Worlds Championship held in Orlando, Florida by Senator Lapid.

[00:44:16]>> Referred to the committee on rules >> 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.

[00:44:32]by Senator Lapid >> referred to the committee on public services.

[00:44:37]>> 391 resolution congratulating and commending Reene Velasis Alcasid for being named as the first ever woman of the year by Billboard Philippines by Senator Lapid.

[00:44:47]>> Referred to the committee on rules.

[00:44:49]>> Committee reports. Committee report number 63 submitted by the committee on local government on House Bill number 7554 introduced by representatives for Nedi and Mira Flores. an act declaring December 19 of every year as a special non-working holiday in the city of Montin Lupa to be known as Montin Lupa Foundation Day amending for the purpose RA number 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 Montin Lupa to be known as the Montin Lupa city charter day recommending its approval without amendment sponsor Senator Estrada >> to the calendar for ordinary business >> committee report number 64 before submitted by the committee on local government on house bill number 7555 introduced by representatives Tolentino and Mira Flores an act declaring September 6th of every year as a special non-working holiday in the municipality of Mendes Nunes province of Kabete to commemorate its founding anniversary recommending its approval without amendment sponsor Senator Estrada >> to the calendar for ordinary business >> committee report number 65 submitted by the committee on local government on house bill number 142 introduced by repres Representatives Olivaris and Mira Flores, an act declaring February 13 of every year a special land working holiday in the city of Piranyaki, Metro Manila, amending for the purpose RA number 11460 recommending its approval without amendment. Sponsor Senator Estrada >> to the calendar for ordinary business.

[00:46:17]>> Committee report number 66 submitted by the committee on local government on House Bill number 761 introduced by Representatives Matugas and Mira Flores.

[00:46:26]An act declaring January 16 of every year a special non-working holiday in the municipality of the pa province of Suriggo del Norte in celebration of the feast of its patron saint the holy sanino recommending its approval without amendment sponsor senator Estrada >> to the calendar for ordinary business >> committee report number 67 submitted by the committee on local government on house bill number 762 introduced by representatives Chan and mira flores an act declaring June 17 of every year a special non-working holiday in the city of Laapu, province of Cebu in commemoration of its charter anniversary, recommending its approval without amendment. Sponsor Senator Estrada >> to the calendar for ordinary business.

[00:47:07]Committee report number 68 submitted by the committee on local government on house bill 1510 introduced by representatives yak e atal an act declaring July 15 of every year a special non-working holiday in the whole cordillier administrative region in commemoration of its founding anniversary to be known as cordeliera day recommending its approval without amendment sponsor senator Estrada >> to the calendar for ordinary business >> committee report number 69 submitted by the committee on local government on house bill number 538 introduced by representatives Bolia and Mera Flores and Anclaring 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 >> to the calendar for ordinary business >> committee report number 70 submitted by the committee on local government on house bill number 1539 introduced by representatives Bolyria and Mer Flores An act declaring November 11 of every year as a special non-working holiday in the municipality of Taisan province of Batangas in celebration of its founding anniversary recommending its approval without amendment. Sponsor Senator Estrada >> to the calendar for ordinary business.

[00:48:22]Second >> uh suspend lang session suspended.

[01:01:56]Eto lang dear.

[01:01:59]>> Yes. Session is resumed.

[01:02:04]>> Madame President, m at this juncture, may we proceed with the additional reference of business?

[01:02:10]>> Please proceed. Additional reference of business. Message from the House of Representatives. 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.

[01:02:24]House Bill number 8466 an actituting the National Land Use Policy providing the implementing mechanisms creating for the purpose the National Land Use Commission and appropriating funds. Therefore, >> referred to the committees on sustainable development, goals, innovation, futures, thinking and finance.

[01:02:44]>> 8647, an act strengthening and expanding the Panawit Pamelang Filipino program amending Republic Act number 11310 otherwise known as the Pantawit Pamelang Filipino Program Act.

[01:02:56]>> Referred to the Committees on Social Justice, Welfare, and Rural Development and Finance. 7704, an act expanding the prohibited acts of discrimination against women on account of sex, amending for the purpose PD number 442, otherwise known as the labor code of the Philippines as amended.

[01:03:13]>> Referred to the committees on labor, employment, human resources, development, women, children, family relations, and gender equality.

[01:03:21]>> 8461, an act granting the Katikbach Enterprise St. Pablo City Incorporated, a franchise to construct, install, establish, operate, and maintain radio and television stations in the Philippines.

[01:03:32]>> Referred to the committee on public services.

[01:03:35]>> 755. An act establishing a district office of the land transportation office in the city of Saga, Negros Accidental 2623, converting the extension office of the land transportation office in Suanga City, special economic zone in Freeport into a district office and appropriating funds. Therefore 3279 establishing a regular district office of the land transportation office in the municipality of big province of Katanuanes and appropriating funds therefore 4477 establishing the LTO office in the municipality of Taitai province of Palawan and appropriating funds therefore 8609 upgrading the LTO district office in the city of Batak province of Ilocos Norte from class D to class C and approp appropriating funds.

[01:04:22]Therefore, 8610 expanding the registration and issuance of licenses in the passing district office of the LTO and appropriating funds. Therefore, 8611 upgrading the district office of the land of the LTO in the municipality of Nav Naval Province of Byeran from class D to class B and appropriating funds.

[01:04:43]Therefore, >> referred to the committees on public services and finance. 1866 Establishing the Camarinas Norte first district engineering office in of DPW in the municipality of Labo province of Camarinas Norte renaming the existing district engineering office in the municipality of diet as the Camarinas Norte second district engineering office and appropriating funds therefore 2206 creating a district engineering office in the sixth legislative district of the province of Batangas and appropriating funds therefore 3535 creating a District Engineering Office in the sixth legislative district of the province of Isabella in appropriating funds therefore >> referred to the committees on public works and finance >> 8497 naming the entire stretch of the Santander Bili Toledo National Road traversing Bangai San Sebastian Kasahikan Tango Bonbon Publashon and Suba in the municipality of Sambboan through Barangis Malongon Tub Dakit Kalubhan Patupat, Ausena, Santa Ana, Publashon and Maganoi, King Boang Gan, Sao Minolos and Gwanon in the municipality of Barili province of Cebu as the Pablo P. Garcia Highway 8498.

[01:06:00]Naming the diversion road commencing at the Armok by southern Lee boundary road in Barangai Bantig and traversing Barangi Sumanga Patag Dong Hall and San Pablo up to the diversion junction at the Palo Caligara or mock road in the city of Armok province of Lee as the mayor visented G Torres Senior Avenue 8499aming the road from Barangai west junction of Hermosila Drive through Barangai North Trizal extension road up to Barangai Dong Hall Dongal Lake Emldda road which is also referred to by the department of public works and highways as the ormok lake emlda national tertiary road in the city of Ormok province of Lee as the judge Benhamin Pongo senior avenue >> referred to the committee on public works >> 8496 renaming the Tawi Tawi Regional Agricultural College as the Tawitawi State College expanding its curricular offerings and strengthening its governing board >> referred to the committee on higher technical and vocational education 8577 converting the Bali Quatro College of Arts and Trades in the municipality of Alen, province of Northern Summer into a polytechnic institution to be known as the Northern Summer Polytechnic Institute and appropriating funds.

[01:07:13]Therefore, 8578 establishing a polytechnic institution in the municipality of Mutyong province of Summer to be known as the Mutyong Polytenic Institute and appropriating funds. Therefore, 8579 converting the Kagayan Deoro School of Arts and Trades in the city of Kagayan Deoro into a polytenic Institute institution to be known as the Kagayan Deoro Polytenic Institute and appropriating funds.

[01:07:37]Therefore, 8580 converting the Northern Mindanao School of Fisheries in the municipality of Benabista, province of Agusand del Norte into a polytenic institution to be known as the Northern Mindanao Polytech Institute and appropriating funds. Therefore, 8581, an act establishing a polytechnic institution in the municipality of Pollangi, province of Albai to be known as the Pollangiti Polytenic Institute and appropriating funds. Therefore, 8582 converting the Depollo School of Fisheries in the city of Depolog, Province of Zambanga del Norte into a Polytenic Institution to be known as the Zambanga del Norte Polytechnic Institute of Fisheries and appropriating funds.

[01:08:15]Therefore, 8583 converting the Agusan Delsur School of Arts and Trades in the municipality of Prosperidad, province of Agusand Delsur into a polytenic institution to be known as the Agusan Delsur Polytenic Institute and appropriating funds. Therefore, 8584 converting the Sugon National Agricultural School in the municipality of Castila, province of Sugon into a polytenic institution to be known as the Sersugon Polytechnic Institute and appropriating funds. Therefore 8612 establishing a polytechnic institution in the municipality of Santa Maria province of Bulakan to be known as the Santa Maria Polytechnic Institute and appropriating funds. Therefore >> referred to the committees on higher technical and vocational education and finance.

[01:08:59]>> 8626 Establishing a college of medicine in the eastern summer state university in the city of Bongan province of eastern summer and appropriating funds.

[01:09:08]Therefore 8627 converting the South Kotabato State College in the municipality of Surala Province of South Kotabato into a state university to be known as the South Kotabata State Universities and appropriating funds.

[01:09:21]Therefore >> referred to the committees on higher technical and vocational education ways and means and finance. A39 an act declaring Kanumantad falls located in Barangai Kadapadapan municipality of Kandihai province of Bhol an ecoterism site. 842 declaring Koka Hills located in Barangi Kamban municipality of Kandihai province of Bhal and ecourism destination. 901 declaring Mabanog Falls located in Barangai Dapua, municipality of Bansalan, province of Davao Delsur, an ecourism site and 10005 declaring the Cong Congressman Edel Miro A. Amante Senior Map Paso Resort and Adventure Nature Park located in the municipality of Santiago, province of Agusan Delsur an ecourism zone.

[01:10:09]>> Referred to the committees on tourism, environment, natural resources and climate change and finance. 1663 establishing the battle of the Cibuan Sea Memorial Shrine in the municipality of Kah Jan province of RBlon and declaring it a tourism destination.

[01:10:25]>> Referred to the committees on tourism and finance.

[01:10:28]>> 1664 declaring the Binukot beach area located in Barangai Bonuran, Municipality of Ferrell, province of RMLon an ecourism destination >> referred to the committees on tourism, environment and natural resources and climate change and finance. 1665 declaring the Colum Colong Beach loc located located in the municipality of Quera province of RBlon a tourism destination and 1666 declaring the municipality of San Jose popularly known as Isla de Carabau province of RBlon a tourism destination >> referred to the committees on tourism and finance >> 1667 declaring the Lok Bay Area located in the municipality of Lok province of RBlon an ecourism destination >> referred to the committees on tourism M environment, natural resources and climate change and finance.

[01:11:18]>> 1668 declaring the Payasog beach located in Barangai M Sag municipality of Cquera, province of Rublon a tourism destination. 1669 declaring the ruins of Kota de San Jose located in the municipality of Corka, province of Rublon a tourism site. 1672 declaring the siki it eleant rock formation located in the coast of Barangi labid municipality of Corqua province of Rmlon a tourism site >> referred to the committees on tourism and finance >> 2928 declaring the municipality of San Fernando province of Rumlon a tourism development area 8562 declaring the municipality of Colombia province of Sultan Kadrat as tourism development area 8563 declaring Bangal caves located in the municipality of Ragay province of Kamarinaur as ecourism destination >> referred to the committees on tourism environment natural resources and climate change and finance >> 8564 declaring Barangai Managa Institute of Balut Takai municipality of Bansalan province of double delsur as a farm tourism destination >> referred to the committees on tourism and finance >> 8565 declaring the pasik eyelet located in Barangai Batau municipality of Santa Cruz province of Davo delsur as an equator Tourism site 8566 declaring Barangi Capatagan in the city of Digos, province of Double Dour as tourism destination. 8568 declaring the Bakhawan Echop Park located in Barangai New Buswang municipality of Kalibbo province of Aklan as an ecourism zone >> referred to the committees on tourism, environment, natural resources and climate change and finance. 8569 declaring the immediate environments of the national shrine of Padre Pio commonly known as Padre Pio shrine located in Barangai San Pedro city of Santa Tomas province of Batangas as a tourism destination. 8570 declaring the municipality of Barlik in mountain province as a tourism development area >> referred to the committees on tourism and finance. 8571 declaring the Palani Beach located in the municipality of Ballod province of Masbate as an ecourism destination. 8572 declaring the Ben Unido double barrier reef and its immediate underwater environs of Benien Unido province of Bhol as a tourism destination. 8573 declaring Ulot River in the municipality of Piranas province of Samar an ecourism destination. 8574 declaring city of Pulak Pulakan of San Fernando Barangai city of Tisai Negros accidental as an eco ecourism zone 8575 declaring the Agusan marsh located in the municipalities of Talogon San Francisco Rosario Bonawan Lorto laaz and Veroella all in the province of Agusan delsur as an ecourism zone >> referred to the committees on tourism environment natural resources and climate change and finance 8621 upgrading the Kolinga provincial hospital in the city of Tabo province of Kolinga into a level three regional hospital to be known as the northern Cordeliera regional medical center and appropriating funds therefore 8622 establishing in the city of Balencia province of Bakidnon a multipety hospital and research center to be known as the Mkidnon Farmers Research and Medical Center and appropriating funds therefore in 8623 renaming the Jose Lingad Memorial General Hospital in the city of San Fernando, province of Pampanga to Husseil Lead Medical Center, increasing its bed capacity from 1,00 to 1,500 beds, upgrading its professional healthc care services and facilities, authorizing the increase of its medical personnel and appropriating funds.

[01:15:01]Therefore, repealing for the purpose RA number 11359 >> referred to the committees on health and demography and finance. 8457 granting a legislative franchise to Kagayan 1 Electric Cooperative to construct, install, establish, operate, own, manage and maintain a distribution system for the con conveyance of electric power to the end users in the city of Tigaro and municipalities of Pña Blanca, Enri, Solana, Amulong, Pat, San Antonio, Tuao, Rizal, Egal, Kala and Baga province of Kagayan. 8458 granting a legislative franchise to Isabella 1 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 Kawaiian, city of Santiago, municipalities of Angandana, San Gilmo, Ramon, San Mateo, Sanidro, Alicia, Aag, Cordon, Jones, San Augustine, Caban, Natuan, Kabatuan, Luna, and Raina Mercedes, province of Isabella.

[01:16:02]8459 granting a legislative franchise to First Candidwanes 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 Bagaman, Baras, Batau, Karamoan, Karamoran, Kidoto, Pandan, Panganiban, San Andreas, San Miguel, Viga and Barack Katanduanes and 8460 an act granting a legislative franchise to accidental men 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 Maisai, San Jose, Rizal, Kalintan, Sab, Sablian, Santa Cruz, Mang Burau, Abra, Pala, Paluan, province of accidental, Muro referred to the committee on public services.

[01:16:53]>> Madame President, if I may, >> Majority Leader.

[01:16:57]>> Thank you, Madame President. Before we proceed, may I just be allowed to uh recognize some guests from the gallery.

[01:17:02]Guest of Senator Legarda, regional director John Montero of BJMP region 6 and Mr. Sergio Dava Jr. of the provincial government of uh Antique.

[01:17:16]Also guest of this representation is Kasim Mesa from uh University of Sto.

[01:17:20]Thomas. We uh welcome all of them in this August chamber.

[01:17:24]>> We welcome you to the Senate. Madame President, having clo um having uh closed the period of interpolation, may I be allowed to respectfully move that we resume consideration of Senate Bill number 1511 under committee report number 15. This is the bill strengthening the uh protection of parents against hospital detention. So moved. Madame President, >> which bill is that?

[01:17:58]>> Any objection?

[01:18:01]Any objection? Hearing none, the motion is approved and consideration of the said measure is now in order. Please proceed.

[01:18:08]>> Thank you, Madame President. this juncture I move to open the period of individual amendments and uh with the consent of the body uh may we recognize Madame President Senator Risa on to propose not proposing oh the the the the chair the uh sponsor of the measure Senator Risa to propose amendments. Madame President, I so move >> we recognize Senator Risa Antiveros for the period. Is this committee amendments?

[01:18:40]>> This is individual amendments. Madame President, >> individual amendments.

[01:18:44]>> Yes.

[01:18:44]>> But uh Senator Onos is a sponsor.

[01:18:49]>> Yes. Uh Madame President, >> please proceed.

[01:18:51]>> Thank you, Madame President. Madame President, I thank Senators Sherwin Gachalan, Joel Villanoeva, and Robin Padilia for their proposed amendments enhancing the provisions of Senate Bill 1511 or the enhanced antihosp detention act. Page one amendment from Senator Gachalian on page one line 12 after the conjunction or delete the word carers and replace with the word caregivers. I so move madame president.

[01:19:25]>> No objections.

[01:19:27]It's adopted.

[01:19:28]>> Thank you madame president. Page two amendments.

[01:19:32]>> I I see Senator Pia lady from Tagig and Patera. Senator Pia Kayatano seeking the floor. May I move that she be recognized. Madame President, >> be recognized. Senator Pia Kayatano.

[01:19:44]>> Thank you um Mr. President. Madame President, uh her honor will recall that I this representation um waved our right to to um make uh to to interpolate uh on the condition that we would be allowed to ask clarificatory questions during the period of amend of the amendments. Does your honor recall?

[01:20:04]>> Yes, Madame President.

[01:20:05]>> Yeah. So, what I'll do, Mr. president is I'll just make a a prefaratory statement now because my amendment is actually in this line now in line in line 13. So if I with the with the permission of the um sponsor, may I proceed?

[01:20:19]>> Yes, madame president. By all means, >> just uh to be clear about it, the uh amendment was accepted.

[01:20:26]>> Ah yes, I'm on the next. I'm on the next.

[01:20:28]>> We are on to the next and we recognize Senator Pia.

[01:20:31]>> Thank you, Mr. President. So, um, I'd like to put on record that, uh, this, uh, bill that her honor is sponsoring is an amendment to the bill that I sponsored and that became law over a decade ago. Uh, I don't even remember the year. Do we remember the year?

[01:20:51]I just want to put it on record.

[01:20:54]And how we appreciate that uh, her honor as chairman of the committee on health uh, at the time that she was handling this um, 2007. So 19 years ago now. It honestly feels like maybe 6 years ago, but it's 19 years ago. So it is high time and I thank the sponsor for uh taking the time to revisit this law. Um we even after we passed it, we received many reports on how the situation of uh you detention of patients uh has improved but then we would still continue to have to intervene many times um because this situation still uh kept coming up. So this representation is uh thankful that uh we have the opportunity to uh strengthen this laws this law even further. And so um as I mentioned uh uh I requested for for the opportunity to ask clarificatory questions and in the interest of time and um ease of uh the to make it easier to make uh for everyone to engage to contribute to the amendments. I will also make my uh observations uh and clarificatory questions which is necessary for the amendments I'm going to make in a timely manner. So on that note um madame president my amendment is is still on page one and that is why I stood up now it is on line 13. So um I will read the provision for everyone's understanding and of course if we have um we don't really need it n man it's not a complicated line but I just want to explain the nature of my amendment. So the existing provision with the amendment of Senator Gachalan reads, "It shall also be unlawful to detain the relatives, representatives or caregivers of such patients as well as the newborn child in the case of maternity patients. So that is where my question is on line 13.

[01:22:58]There is reference to the newborn child.

[01:23:01]Um what I'd like to point out, Mr. Madame President, is that does her honor think there is a need to indicate and to insert the proper descriptive lines uh whether the newborn child is fully or partially recovered or may have died because this is a phrase that is found in the previous paragraph with reference to a patients and I read this is the existing um provision the detention of patients who have fully or partially recovered or have been adequately attended to or may have died. So may clarification status patient whether recover partially or fully or covered. So I'm also asking now should we make that same clarification for the newborn cases.

[01:24:00]So uh this representation feels it won't hurt to add those lines. We submit this madam.

[01:24:06]>> Madam President um I do agree with uh the gentle woman from Tagigan Patos that it would not hurt uh to include that qualification uh if she so desires.

[01:24:17]>> Okay. Um do we have then we will make the amendment. Um madame president um I can get back to her honor. It's a very simple line man. So let me just propose it. We can go we can proceed so we don't delay and then I'll get back to this line.

[01:24:44]I'll ask my legis staff as well to formulate this.

[01:24:47]>> Of course, you guys can either um I would just like to clarify uh before this we accepted the amendment and this will be another sentence the next sentence. May you just please read it and then we say subject to style or depending on the consultation with the sponsor.

[01:25:05]>> Yes. Well, it's more or less subject to style. It would be it would be uh newborn newborn child who who newborn child who has fully or partially recovered or who has been adequately attended to or who may have died.

[01:25:22]Similar to the above provision we submit Mr. Madame President subject to style.

[01:25:28]>> Uh if the sponsor so agrees then the amendment is a is uh you're supposed to accept it if you would agree. And just to add, Madame President, to my earlier acceptance, although this uh second paragraph of section one is originally supposed to refer to that nefarious practice of palit ulo, but as I mentioned, it would not hurt if the uh gentle woman so desires to add that qualification of uh whether having fully or partially recovered and having been adequately attended to or may have died to the uh phrase newborn child. Madame President, >> it is therefore accepted by the sponsor.

[01:26:08]>> It is accepted. Madam President, I just made of record that the original focus of this paragraph was that palo practice.

[01:26:15]>> But just to be clear, the focus doesn't change the this uh amendment instruct strengthens that whether or it strengthens the right of the mother to to be able to >> bring home her child. Yes, Madame President, >> and we recognize a minority leader, Senator Sto.

[01:26:38]>> We I will uh concur with the uh subject to style, but uh um just as a reminder, editorial amendment. Uh I don't think there is a use for the article two between us and the >> Yeah, that's what Yes. Yes. We noted that. Um, uh, Madame President, uh, I would have, um, included that. My, my staff was already pointing it out to me, but since I said subject to style, but thank you, Mr. uh, minority floor leader.

[01:27:11]Thank you for that.

[01:27:12]>> We thank the minority leader for that.

[01:27:14]Uh, we proceed, Madame Sponsor.

[01:27:17]>> Yeah. Yes, Madame President. Thank you.

[01:27:20]On uh moving now to page two, amendments. Uh first from Senator Gachalian on page two line 12.

[01:27:28]>> Hi Mr. Madame President I have your amendment.

[01:27:32]>> Mine um Madame President is on line six and um there's two.

[01:27:44]So actually uh there may be no need for an amendment. It's just to clarify the intention here so that again when this uh bill when these amendments become law uh we make it very clear what the legislative intent is. So um I'd like to read this into the record so that our colleagues who are following along with us uh can follow the discussion. No, that the this paragraph is about the uh the patient who expresses a desire to be admitted to a non-private room and yet private room. So explain po concern. So I'll read I'll read that paragraph first. The amendment uh of the sponsor states patients who stayed in private rooms shall not be covered by this act.

[01:28:36]detention room unless unless the said patient notwithstanding one's expressed desire to be admitted to a non-private room was admitted to a private room for the following reasons.

[01:28:53]A no non-private room is available in the hospital medical city etc. 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.

[01:29:07]So the observation and the legislative intent that I want to put on record is on letter Ba private room or other professional medical professional of the hospital or health center deemed it in the best interest of the patient to be admitted you intention madame sponsor.

[01:29:31]>> That's right Mr. Madame President.

[01:29:33]>> Okay. And so uh what this representation would like to uh emphasize now is that the legislative intent for the physicians overriding the desire 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 nondetent of this law. they can avail of this law. In other words, we are not liberalizing or changing the rule that the patient's desires will always govern. A doctor medical professional cannot override a patient's desire. In other cases, limited to subtopic non-hosp detention tama madame sponsor.

[01:30:24]>> Yes, madame president. Uh one bill one uh topic.

[01:30:28]>> Yes. So again to put it there sponsor y lang po. Thank you very much.

[01:30:40]>> Thank you. Uh what is the next amendment of senator P?

[01:30:45]>> Just just for my clarification.

[01:30:47]>> We recognize a minority leader.

[01:30:48]>> Yes. Thank you madame president. Just for my clarification.

[01:30:51]Soap uh the in a private room, you know, you're in a private room, the the law does not apply to you. This law does not apply to you. Is that it?

[01:31:10]>> Uh that is right, Madame President.

[01:31:16]nonprivate room.

[01:31:25]It's actually the case.

[01:31:26]>> So why are we accepting minority leader?

[01:31:31]It's actually the case madame president, good minority leader that even patients award basic accommodation out of pocket expenses.

[01:31:46]>> Yes, I I agree. So this law is um very important for them and it's a variation of the original law by Senator Pano. But then again understanding in the language is private room they can detain you.

[01:32:11]The intent madame president is that uh for the in the context and under the conditions specified in this bill from the original law under this law. It is not to say circumstantial remedies under the law but it may be other laws specific to those.

[01:32:36]>> What what course uh would that be? Uh for example, we have uh a patient in a um in a private room um cerosis of the liver and then They do not fall under the in the category of this law or this bill. I'm sorry.

[01:33:14]Unfortunately, Madame President in the case of that patient medical decision attending physician prevail.

[01:33:27]>> I can assist in the answer if if her honor will allow.

[01:33:30]>> Um certainly Madame President Yes.

[01:33:34]>> Thank you. at least during the time that we sponsored the original billong requirements private hospital they have the liberty to We really don't support any detention in any under any condition but because they chose a private rooms.

[01:33:55]So they may be requiring promisory note guarantor requirements in this case very specific rule no detention and then later on in other provision there are also requirements to produce something but that is what the law is dictating require uh private then the hospitals can make other requirements Mr. president to secure the payment that uh that they I they uh for payment for the services that were rendered. Mr. President worked on it before. Thank you.

[01:34:32]Additionally, madame president, additionally minority leader private hospitals by law provide 10% under ward or basic accommodations uh terms to the patients. Madame President.

[01:34:53]>> Well, just for the record so that uh when uh this bill becomes law uh the uh the um res or not resolution but the the explanation of the sponsors uh I'll praise on record. So just in case this question on this particular issue >> and the point of the minority leader is the protection on the part of those availing of >> those who cannot pay anyway >> cannot pay but in a private room.

[01:35:24]>> We just wanted to place it on record.

[01:35:27]Thank you.

[01:35:27]>> Thank you.

[01:35:29]Madame President, >> Senator Kayatano is uh finished with her.

[01:35:38]>> You're on page >> two. I were just following the sequence.

[01:35:40]So I have more when when her honor gets to the page and number that I'm at.

[01:35:45]Thank you.

[01:35:46]>> Thank you. We recognize Senator Winfo if the uh lady sponsor would allow it. Uh Madame President. I just >> Yes, Madam President.

[01:36:10]Public service private room.

[01:36:25]Madame President uh good lady sponsor emergency ward free ward private ward private room.

[01:36:55]hospital.

[01:37:12]Free word.

[01:37:25]Madame President, good ladies sponsor room.

[01:37:54]Madame President, your lady sponsor, can we put this on record? Madame President, good lady sponsor. Sometimes hospitalrivate room. Madame President, good lady sponsor. po.

[01:38:18]>> Thank you, Senator Irwin Tulfo.

[01:38:20]>> Take note of that and at least uh if there are problems in the future in uh interpretation of this law, the comments uh will be able to enlighten the poor patients who may be booked in a private room. Thank you, Madame President. And even now good gentlemen exemp exemption gentlemen page 2 line 8 uh letter A private room no non-private room in the hospital medical clinic or any other similar facility was available information and the patient was compelled to be admitted there too due to the urgency of the case on the record.

[01:39:33]Thank you. We recognize Senator Pia.

[01:39:35]>> It's just an added commentary. Uh earlier when I said that we thank the sponsor for uh bringing up taking up this uh amendment to the existing law cuz these are the kind of examples that are brought to our attention whether it's soenator A and I read it into the record earlier.

[01:40:00]So we thank the sponsor include talaga because it's a very common uh complaint that we receive. Thank you.

[01:40:06]>> Thank you madame president. Um moving on to well uh page two amendments from Senator Gachalan. On page two line 12 after the second article the insert the word attending and after the word other insert the word competent. I so move madame president.

[01:40:27]>> No objections hearing none.

[01:40:30]Amendment is adopted.

[01:40:32]>> Thank you, Madame President. Still from Senator Gachalan on page 2, line 18.

[01:40:38]After the word circumstances, insert a column and the phrase provided that the medical justification shall be in writing and signed by the attending physician or other competent medical professional. I so move.

[01:40:54]>> No objections hearing none. It is adopted. Thank you, Madame President.

[01:41:00]From this representation and Senator Gachalian, still on page two, between lines 18 and 19, insert the following paragraph. For purposes of this act, detention refers to any act of restraining a person from leaving the hospital, clinic, or similar facility on grounds of non-payment in part or in full of hospital bills, medical expenses, or professional fees. It includes the refusal to a physically discharge or to issue documents necessary for discharge, interament, or benefit claims. B remove medical devices when removal is medically appropriate or C release a caliber of a deceased patient to the surviving relatives. I so move madame president.

[01:41:54]>> No objections hearing none. It is adopted.

[01:41:57]>> Thank you madam president.

[01:41:58]>> You recognize Senator Pia Tayan.

[01:41:59]>> Yes madam president.

[01:42:02]>> Yeah good morning.

[01:42:04]>> Um I actually uh defer to the uh wishes of the sponsor. I just like to point out that in the definition of uh detention and I don't have a copy so this is just from what I heard her honor made reference to the detention of the patient but when we defined earlier in the earlier provisions we referred to the caregiver and the newborn. So would her honor does her honor think it might be better that we also mentioned them the patient the >> the caregiver and the newborn uh for consistency. Uh Madame President, >> I would be uh accepting of that. Uh Madame President and um is there an amendment >> subject to style? Madame President, >> the addition of those >> Yeah, the the amendment would be uh after the word patients uh the caregivers or the newborn we submit.

[01:42:58]>> May we hear the whole sentence from the sponsor?

[01:43:02]U as I understand it from the sorry madam president >> the complete reference uh in the earlier paragraphs also make note of relatives and representatives in addition to caregivers. So the I I can write down the complete line if your honor wishes or we can just add it.

[01:43:24]The intention is not to limit it.

[01:43:26]>> The intention is not to li it limit it to patients but to include everyone else that was mentioned earlier that if they are they cannot detain those persons >> the caregiver and >> relatives and or representatives.

[01:43:39]>> Yes, >> that is the intention.

[01:43:41]>> So we'll we'll include that that same enumeration in this provision. I don't have a copy. I'm sorry. So I I can't make the I can't make reference to which line because I don't have a copy of the amendment. Yes. Uh again, Madame President, I accept subject to style.

[01:43:57]>> Yes. Thank you, Senator Kano. Thank you, Madame Sponsor.

[01:44:00]>> Thank you, uh, Madame President. And just for the record, Madame President, the proposed amendments clarify and strengthen the definition of detention by expanding coverage beyond physical restraint to include indirect or administrative acts that prevent or delay lawful discharge or release. The revisions also broaden the scope of covered facilities. Uh expressly and here uh this speaks to the concern of the gentle lady from Tagigan Pateros.

[01:44:28]Expressly include caregivers and dis deceased patients and clarify prohibited acts such as withholding discharge documents, delaying cador release or refusing medically authorized device removal. These changes close interpretative uh loopholes. align the definition with actual detention practices such as pilot ulo and strengthen patient protection consistent with the intention of RA 9439.

[01:44:59]Moving on, Madame President from Sorry.

[01:45:02]>> Uh yes, Madame President.

[01:45:03]>> Uh again, this this issue is so close to my heart. So I'm just randomly thinking of other situations. Did her honor or for that matter any of her colleagues come across situations where we should consider that even the it could imagine now that people bring their laptop now that I remember. So would her honor consider that now they cannot also hold personal belongings?

[01:45:43]>> The belongings. Yeah, >> certainly Madame President for the confinement. Certainly they should not be withheld from them.

[01:46:00]So actually report cell phone. So I will I will uh draft an amendment and then I will uh submit the language in a while.

[01:46:11]>> Yes. Thank you for that. We take note of that. Thank you. Thank you madame president.

[01:46:16]Oh u yes madam >> we recognize senator Irwin majority leader.

[01:46:22]>> Uh thank you madame president. Uh good lady sponsor.

[01:46:37]laptop, cell phone, tricycle, Jeep tricycle driver a tricycle tractor hand tractor madame president good lady sponsor so just in Thank you, Madame President.

[01:47:32]>> What is the amendment of the of Senator Tulfo then?

[01:47:37]How do we phrase it?

[01:47:40]Amendment Senatorhood livelihood. Madame President >> and so we would include personal belongings and livelihood. Is that what the sponsor would agree to? Again, Madame President, probably subject to style, but I fully recognize the not just concern but real situations.

[01:48:06]Good gentleman.

[01:48:26]So this uh amended law is intended or amendatory bill is intended to prevent uh such situations. So I I would be open to uh adding language reflecting um the concern raised by the good gentleman.

[01:48:41]Madam, Madame President, if I may, majority leader, uh, Madame President, we have been uh uh uh talking about the uh proposed uh amendment of the distinguished gentleman from Palawan and uh uh right now Senator Pia and our uh minority leader are coordinating with each other with the right uh word that will be introduced later on. So, we would like to uh put that into the records. Uh Madame Madame President, if I may, may I just move for a minute suspension? Session suspended.

[01:49:59]Okay.

[01:50:02]Sponsorship.

[01:50:04]H what is that suspension?

[01:50:19]So, Canada for the business housing.

[01:50:50]We're ready to resume. Madame President >> Session is resumed.

[01:50:54]>> Madame President, uh to allow our uh colleagues to uh craft the uh necessary amendments being proposed here on the floor. May I move that we suspend consideration of uh Senate Bill number 1511 under committee report number 15.

[01:51:08]So moved, Madame President.

[01:51:10]>> Any objections? Hearing none, the period of amendments on the measure is suspended. Thank you, Madame President.

[01:51:18]Madame President, with the consent of the body, I move that we transfer from the calendar for ordinary business to the calendar for special orders. House Bill number 6639 under committee report number 61. And House Bill number 6644 under committee report number 62. These are bills granting Philippine citizenships. I so moved, Madame President.

[01:51:40]>> Any objection? Hearing none. Motion is approved.

[01:51:44]Madame President, I move that we consider the aforementioned House bills.

[01:51:48]It's so moved, Madame President.

[01:51:55]Any objection? Hearing none, the motion is approved. Secretary, please read into the record the title of the bills without prejudice to inserting into the record the whole text thereof. House Bill number 6639, an act granting Philippine citizenship to Benny Franco Bothright III. House Bill number 6644, an act granting Philippine citizenship to Matthew James Ramos.

[01:52:25]Madame President, uh upon uh the consultation of this representation to the uh minority leader and with the consent of the body, may I respectfully move to recognize Senator Francis Kiko Pangalinan to deliver an omnibus sponsorship speech. I so move, Madame President.

[01:52:45]>> We recognize um Senator Kiko Pangalinan for his sponsorship. Yes, please proceed. How do you want to?

[01:52:54]>> Thank you, Madame President. Thank you, distinguished uh majority leader, >> acting majority leader uh and to our distinguished colleagues.

[01:53:05]I rise today with the permission of our colleagues to uh uh for an omnis omniable sponsorship uh of two committee reports. Uh, committee report number 61 in consideration of House Bill 6639 granting Philippine citizenship to Benny Francois Boatright III. And committee report number 62 in consideration of House Bill number 6644 granting Philippine citizenship to Matthew James Ramos. These measures uh correspond to Senate Bill 1595 authored by uh Senate President Alan Peter Cayatano, Senator Pia Kayatano, and Senator Bongo granting Philippine citizenship to Benny Boight. And Senate Bill number 1613 authored by Senator Bongo granting Philippine citizenship to Matthew James Ramos. Matthew and Benny are worldclass athletes who despite the many opportunities and paths available to them elsewhere have chosen to cast their lot with the Filipino people.

[01:54:31]Matthew James Ramos is a decorated wrestler and a proud son of Filipino Pangasini father Chris Cresente Hollandai Ramos.

[01:55:02]Philippine Sports. At the height of a promising wrestling career in the United States, Matthew made the life-changing decision to represent the Philippines in international competitions and helped elevate the sport of wrestling in the country. Among his outstanding accomplishments, Matthew was runner up in the 2023 NCAA Championships and was hailed as Purdue University's 60th All-American.

[01:55:34]He is a two-time NCAA qualifier and a two-time Big 10 place winner, finishing seventh in 2022 and third in 2023. He became the 2022 US Open champion in the 57 kilogram category and reached the NCAA championships round of 12 in the 133 lb division that same year. He was also a two-time NWCA National Wrestling Coaches Association scholar, all-American, and at a young age captured the 2018 Cadet World Championship in the 51 kilogram category. He was ranked among the top wrestling recruits in the United States by Flow Wrestling, Intermat, and the Open Math.

[01:56:29]Yet despite these accolades and the many doors opened to him in America, Matthew Ramos chose the Philippines. He embraced not only our food from adobo to Dinuguan and to Balut.

[01:56:46]If you are able to eat balut, you are very very Filipino in that sense. but also the deeper values that define us as a people. Respect for elders through po and oppo. The importance of family.

[01:57:03]During the hearing, I think six or seven or eight of his family members and his fiance or his girlfriend was there and he brought the warmth of the Filipino spirit and commu of community like adobo which is cooked differently in every region of the country. Being Filipino comes in many forms but whether in cooking, in sports or in nationhood, what matters most is the heart. Anguso.

[01:57:34]And for Matthew Ramos, becoming Filipino is already in his heart. He was unable to attend today's uh sponsorship speech, Mr. President, but he was actually here last week uh when we were scheduled to sponsor it last week. He had to go back toi to the United States for a competition, but uh he is committed to coming back when we pass this measure on in plenary. We also recognize Benny Francois Boatright III, a 27-year-old basketball player from Los Angeles, California, whose talent and leadership have already inspired countless Filipinos, Filipino basketball fans. Uh, Benny Francois Boatright is here with us in the gallery. Standing at 6' 10 in, Benny joined the San Miguel Beerman in December 2023 as the team's import for the PBA Commissioners Cup. He played a crucial role in leading the Beerman to the championship, delivering 19 points, 13 rebounds, eight assists in the title clinching game six. But beyond his athletic ability, Benny understands something deeply familiar to Filipinos.

[01:58:52]That basketball is never about one person alone. It is about trust, sacrifice, and teamwork. That spirit mirrors our own by a Nihan tradition.

[01:59:03]The belief that people achieve greatness when they lift one another up. By embracing the Philippines and choosing to stand with Filipino athletes, many boatright strengthens not only our basketball program, but also our hopes of excelling on the international stage, defending our Asian Games title and one day returning to the Olympics.

[01:59:29]in recognizing the sincere desire of Matthew James Ramos and Benny Francois Boatright uh III to become Filipinos. The these bills seek to honor not only their achievements as athletes but also their genuine commitment to our flag, our people, our culture and our nation. For citizenship is not defined solely by us solely meaning right by birthplace or you sanguinis meaning right by blood. As people have moved since the beginning of time, citizenship is also defined by the right uh by right by choice. Citizenship is also defined by choosing to carry the Philippine flag with pride and honor before the world.

[02:00:36]to support this measure and its immediate passing.

[02:00:40]Mr. President, >> thank you, Senator Pangan. Majority Leader, >> Madame President, the uh gentleman from Sanan, Senator Jingoy Estrada, would like to deliver his uh co-sponsorship speech. May I move that he be recognized? Uh Madame President, >> Senator Jingoy Estrada is recognized.

[02:01:00]>> Thank you, Madame President. Madame President, distinguished colleagues, I'm honored to co-sponsor the bills granting Filipino citizenship to two remarkable athletes to it. House Bill number 6639 under committee report number 61 entitled an act granting Philippine citizenship to Benny Francois Boight III. in House Bill number 6644 under committee report number 62 entitled an act granting Philippine citizenship to Matthew James Ramos. The said bills are reported out by the committee on justice and human rights under the able leadership of its chairperson senator Francis Kiko Pangalinan the best friend of senator Robin Padilia Mr. Benny Francois III is a 29 year 29year-old professional basketball player born in Los Angeles, California.

[02:01:54]He stands at 6' 10 in. He has demonstrated an immediate and powerful impact upon joining the San Miguel Beerman in December 2023 for the PBA Commissioner Cup. His exceptional skill and leadership were instrumental in leading the Beerman to the championship crown, securing the title after tallying 19 points, 13 rebounds, and eight assists in the crucial game six. This performance quickly earned the admiration of Filipino fans. His naturalization will pave the way for him to play for the national basketball team, Gilas Filipinas. His bid for naturalization is supported by the Samahang basketball executive director Erica D and Gilas team manager Al Francis Chua. Another athlete applying for Philippine citizenship is Mr. Matthew James Ramos, a 25-year-old Filipino American wrestler born in Neapville, Illinois. Matthew traces his Philippine roots from his father tricante Ramos a resident of Barangas Publashon Basista Pangasinan.

[02:03:06]He is the 2022 US Open champion and 2022 NCAA championship round of 12. Matthew has expressed his earnest intention to become a naturalized Filipino citizen in order to proudly represent the Philippines in international wrestling competitions. His desire to carry the Philippine flag on the global stage reflects not only his personal affinity for his Filipino roots but also his commitment to contribute to the nation's sports development.

[02:03:37]Granting Filipino citizenship to Benny Boight and James Matthew Ramos serves as a recognition of their dedication, exemplary talent, and earnest desire to represent the Philippines in international competitions. As a staunch advocate of basketball and sports in general, this representation has been continuously supporting measures that will improve the conditions of Filipino athletes and to make them globally competitive Philippine sports, basketball wrestling.

[02:04:13]With this, Madame President, this representation supports the granting of Philippine citizenship to both Benny Francois Boight III and Matthew James Ramos. Thank you, Madame President.

[02:04:26]>> Thank you, Senator Jingo Estrada, Majority Leader.

[02:04:33]Oh, Senator Pia Cayatano will deliver a co-sponsorship speech.

[02:04:37]>> Thank you, Madame President.

[02:04:43]Madame President, I rise to co-sponsor House Bill number 6639 under committee report number 61 granting Philippine citizenship to Benny Francois Boatright III and House Bill number 6644 under committee report number 62 granting Philippine citizenship to Matthew James Ramos for Benny Francois Boatright as the primary author of Senate Bill Number 1595. The Sahang Basketball and Filipinas SBP requested this representation to file this bill as it is a crucial step toward furthering further strengthening our national basketball program. Since joining the San Miguel Beerman in December 2023, Boight has proven to be more than just a talented player. His impact and presence on the court was deeply felt by Filipino fans. He has demonstrated that it truly means what it truly means to contribute to Philippine sports with excellence, consistency, and a heart that has clearly found a home here. In fact, both Wright's connection to our people predates his professional career.

[02:05:47]Growing up, he was surrounded by our community and culture and had many Filipino friends. This natural bond with our heritage is exactly why he has integrated so seamlessly into our local basketball scene. Since first arriving in 2023, Boat Wright has consistently chosen to return to the Philippines, not merely as a place of work, but as a community with which he has formed a genuine and lasting bond. His contribution does not end in the PBA. If naturalized, he will play for Gilas Filipinas, in the Asian Games, the Sea Games, and in the 2028 Olympic qualifying cycle for the 2028 LA Olympics. Ultimately, Boat Wright's value to this nation goes far beyond his performance on the court. His genuine love and affection for our people, our culture, and even our food is something that cannot be coached.

[02:06:42]For Matthew James Ramos, a 25-year-old Filipino American elite wrestler who traced his heritage to his father, Cresente Hollandai Ramos of Basista Pangasin. He intended to become a naturalized citizen to officially represent the Philippines in international combat sports competition being supported by the wrestling association of the Philippines. Ramos holds an exceptional athletic record highlighted by being crowned the 2018 Cadet World Champion, winning the 2022 US Open Championships and finishing as the 2023 National Collegiate Athletic Association NCAA National Runner up for Purdue University where he earned all American honors. Demonstrating a rare balance of athletic and academic rigor, he maintained his standing as a two-time National Wrestling Coaches Association Scholar, AllAmerican, and was recognized as one of the 2024 outstanding seniors by Purdue's College of Health and Human Sciences. Crucially, he brings this elite coaching expertise back home, committing to train, mentor, and uplift local Filipino wrestlers. His naturalization promises to elevate the Philippines on the global wrestling stage and serve as a powerful inspiration to the Filipino youth.

[02:08:04]In closing, granting citizenship to Boatright and Ramos, who have both demonstrated excellence and commitment to the Philippines is a recognition of the value they bring to our collective aspirations. I've always believed that sports is more than just a game. It is a platform. It is a platform for our youth to see what excellence looks like in action. Being an athlete has taught me important life values such as discipline, teamwork, time management, and commitment. All of which I use to this day. These are the same standards we now set forth for bothright and Ramos as they prepare to to raise the Philippine flag. I ask for your support, my dear colleagues. Thank you, Madame President. Thank you, Senator Pia Ketano. For another co-sponsorship speech, we recognize Senator Bongo.

[02:08:56]Mr. President, esteemed colleagues, as one of the authors uh of the bills in consideration, I rise uh today to co-sponsor the measures uh granting Philippine citizenship to Mr. Benny Batright III and Mr. Matthew James Ramos.

[02:09:15]At the outset, allow me to express my uh full support for these measures and thank the sponsor, Senator Kiko Pangilinan, for prioritizing uh these measures. The grant of Philippine uh citizenship uh through uh is a power uh recognized uh under our constitution and uh exercised by uh Congress in favor of individuals who have shown not only merit and competence but also a sincere commitment to serve the Filipino nation.

[02:09:52]Citizenship is more than a legal status.

[02:09:56]It is a bond of loyalty, responsibility, and shared purpose. In the case of these two athletes, we see individuals who are willing to carry our flag, represent our people, and contribute to the continuing development of Philippine sports.

[02:10:13]Mr. Benny Botright has already made a strong mark in Philippine basketball.

[02:10:22]uh PBA ongoing PBA eliminated sila uh just last uh Saturday or Sunday. But uh anyway, since joining the San Miguel Beerman in 2023 PBA Commissioners Cup, he has shown exceptional talent, professionalism, and leadership on the court. His contribution helped the team capture the championship and his performance uh proved that he can be a valuable addition to the future of Philippine basketball as a potential naturalized player for Gilas Filipinas player Justin Brownley.

[02:11:22]player. Mr. Boight brings size, skill, discipline and experience that can strengthen our national team in international competitions.

[02:11:34]Brownly three points shooting three points. His possible inclusion will not only improve our competitiveness, but will also contribute to our long-standing dream of seeing the Philippines stand proudly among the best basketball nations in the world.

[02:11:58]First ever gold since uh 19 62.

[02:12:06]after 63 years Asian games 2023 Asian games and we are now the defending uh champional po Mr. Boight as you take uh on this uh role I mean just a reminder to you you are expected to maintain your health and fitness at all times be always fit Being part of the national team is not just an opportunity. It is a responsibility that calls for dedication, sacrifice, and excellence.

[02:12:47]Always bear in mind your duty to support and elevate the team guided by discipline in everything you do both on and off the field. You must consistently keep yourself in peak compet peak condition. I mean, prepared to perform and compete at the highest level.

[02:13:11]Always eat uh Filipino food.

[02:13:15]Try to eat uh bulad. Also, my uh favorite.

[02:13:20]Likewise, we also recognize Mr. Matthew James Ramos, a Filipino American wrestler whose Filipino roots trace back to Pangasin through his father.

[02:13:38]Mr. Ramos has clearly expressed his desire to become a Filipino citizen and to represent the Philippines in international wrestling competitions.

[02:13:48]This desire is not only merely symbolic.

[02:13:52]It reflects his respect for his Filipino heritage, his connection to our people, and his willingness to bring honor to the country through his uh chosen uh sport decision to represent the Philippines. With athletes like Mr. Ramos, we have an opportunity to further develop the sport, which will open more doors for Filipino wrestlers and raise our standing in regional and international tournaments.

[02:14:26]Mr. President, as chairperson of the committees of of the committee on uh sport, I believe that our duty is not only to support athletes who are who already bring honor to the country, but also to strengthen the systems and opportunities that will allow Philippine sports to grow. The naturalization of Mr. Boight and Mr. Ramos forms part of this broader effort. It allows us to build stronger national teams, expand our national talent pool, and inspire young Filipinos to dream bigger, train harder, and believe that they too can represent the country with pride and excellence. These measures are not simply about granting citizenship to two deserving individuals.

[02:15:18]They are also about investing in Philippine sports and recognizing those who are ready to serve and honor the Filipino flag. Thank you po Mr. President.

[02:15:32]Thank you po Madame President.

[02:15:33]>> Thank you very much Senator Bongo Majority Leader.

[02:15:37]>> Uh Madame President to allow our colleagues to uh further study the measure. I move that we suspend uh consideration of the aforementioned bills. I so move, Madame President.

[02:15:48]>> Any objection? Hearing none.

[02:15:51]>> Uh motion. Uh Senator Mig Zubiri, our former Senate President is seeking the floor. I move that uh he be recognized.

[02:15:57]Madame President, >> recognize Senator Mubiri.

[02:15:59]>> Thank you, Madame Ta Gandalf of the Senate.

[02:16:02]>> Nice to see you smiling. Former.

[02:16:04]>> Yes, I l I had a lack of sleep yesterday, M. Madame President. That's why I was not up to speed with what was happening. But anyway, Mr. Madame President, um on the uh I just wanted to raise not an issue. I am fully supportive of these two gentlemen that will be taking their uh hopefully their oath as a Filipino citizens. But one of them happens to be a son of a Filipino uh Mr. Ramos uh the the wrestler and I was talking to my colleagues and my dear friend uh Alvin Aguilar is here from the wrestling NSA. were together with the NSA uh he's for wrestling and I'm for our niece and I was saying to Senator Kiko Pangilinan that he was used to be the chairman of the committee on justice that maybe we can make an amendment or we can have amendments to the dual citizenship lawcessat IC under the old law that Senator Frank Villain passed apparently there was a timeline like a a cut off date that everybody who had uh uh who are older and uh like they're already adults that wanted to be Filipino uh citizens again or be dual citizens. There was a cut off date. I think it's about time we revisit that law. uh madame president to our colleagues that are listening today whoever will be the chairman of the committee on uh justice and let us amend it let's just make it automatic because I was in Japan recently I met a lot of OFWs who were not able to to to apply the there's online filter of dual citizenship because uh of that cut off date I think madame chair it's a time that we revisit the law and so as long as you can prove that your mother or your father is Filipino automatic dual citizenship.

[02:18:02]>> We take note of that and this representation would be happy to support a bill. I just asked now the secretariat. There is no amendment to the dual citizenship law and uh if they can help us draft amendment to the dual citizenship then perhaps Senator Subiri can be one of the principal authors of the measure. Yeah, we'll do that.

[02:18:28]>> Thank you.

[02:18:28]>> Thank you. Thank you, >> Majority Leader.

[02:18:36]>> Yes, Madame President. Uh may I move again to uh consider Senate Bill number 1511 under committee report number 15.

[02:18:46]And this is the bill strengthening the uh protection of patients against uh hospital detention. So move, madame president, >> have we? Yes.

[02:18:56]>> Uh, you've moved already for the >> I did. I did, Madam President.

[02:18:59]>> And the motion was approved.

[02:19:01]>> Yes. Already approved that consideration. Yes.

[02:19:04]>> And recognize Senator Antiveros, the sponsor of the measure.

[02:19:12]>> May we recognize again the other.

[02:19:16]Yes.

[02:19:21]Salam, Madame President. Uh if I may, Madame President, uh pending confirmation from the gentleoman from Tagigan Pateros, if my proposed formulation of the uh questions she raised and uh about which you will formulate an amendment is already acceptable to her. May I seek the permission of Madame President to proceed with the amendments of Senator Gachalan?

[02:19:47]>> Please proceed. We recognize Senator Pia Ketan as well.

[02:19:50]>> All right, Madam President.

[02:19:51]>> Yes, Madame President. Uh dear sponsor on page two between line 18 and 19 the amendments which included uh this representations um uh amendment to the amendment to include patient relative representative caregiver and new caregiver uh is accepted except that some words are plural and some words are singular.

[02:20:20]Yes.

[02:20:21]>> So may her honor just choose will will we go with singular or plural?

[02:20:26]>> Thank you. So >> we will go with plural madame president and subject to style madame president.

[02:20:34]>> So thank you. Uh thank you madame president.

[02:20:38]>> Um Senator Kayatano is done with our amendments. Yes.

[02:20:43]>> Uh all right. I will uh read the whole text madame president as amended. Okay.

[02:20:55]So uh if I may proceed madam president >> the um session suspended.

[02:20:59]>> Yes madam president >> minute suspension.

[02:29:09]session is resumed.

[02:29:16]>> We recognize once again the sponsor of the measure, Senator Risa.

[02:29:24]Amendment.

[02:29:25]>> Yes.

[02:29:30]Thank you, Madame President. Uh just to read into the record uh the earlier discussed uh and approved amendment of the good uh gentle lady from Tagigan Pateros. That provision will now read on page two between lines 18 and 19. Uh insert the following paragraph. For purposes of this act, detention refers to any act of restraining a person, whether a patient, relative, representative, caregiver, newborn, or deceased person, from leaving a hospital, clinic or similar facility on the ground of non-payment in whole or in part of a hospital bills, medical expenses, or professional fees. It includes the refusal to a physically discharge a patient or issue documents necessary for discharge, interament or benefit claims. B remove medical devices when such removal is medically appropriate. C release personal belongings and D release the carver of a deceased patient to the surviving relatives. So for the record um madame chair >> we therefore approve the uh amendment just read by the sponsor.

[02:30:49]>> Thank you madam chair. To proceed um still on page two from Senator Gachalyan on page two line 30 after the word required delete the preposition on and replace with preposition of. Further on the same line, delete the word senior citizens and replace with the word patients. I so move.

[02:31:13]>> No objection.

[02:31:14]>> So approved.

[02:31:15]>> Thank you, Madame Chair. Madame President, page three amendments. Now, uh, still from Senator Gachalyan. On page three, line two, after the word development, delete the colon and the phrase provided further that those patients who are partially recovered shall sign a waiver or undertaking that they are assuming the risk of the consequences for requesting for discharge despite having not fully recovered. I so move.

[02:31:47]>> No objection.

[02:31:48]>> Thank you, Madame President. We recognize Senator.

[02:31:52]>> Yes, Madame President. To repeat, uh, the motion approved was to delete from colon and the following phrase up to the words having not fully recovered.

[02:32:02]>> Oh, that is clearly understood. Yes, >> I have I would just like to see it in writing just because I was conferring with my staff on my amendment on this same item. So, I was not able to capture the actual amendment. It might be the same as mine. It might be different. I need time to just look at the actual amendment. Madame President, >> it is actually different, Madame President. And it's supposed to be the next amendment uh that I will read into the record also from Senator Pia Cayatano.

[02:32:32]>> And I will yield the floor if uh the good gentle lady would prefer to read her amendment. Uh Madame President.

[02:32:41]>> Yes. Um so I understand my amendment is different, but I do have a comment on this amendment. If her honor can just give me time a minute suspension, please.

[02:32:49]>> All right.

[02:32:53]>> Yes.

[02:34:03]Madame President sessionist Rash. Yes, Madame President.

[02:34:07]Uh uh as uh agreed upon by uh our minority leader and the members uh present here today in this uh plenary. May I just respectfully move that we suspend consideration of uh Senate Bill number 1511 under committee report number 15 uh with the commitment that this will be tackled uh first uh as as first item uh tomorrow. Uh Madame President, I so move. Madame President, >> no objection hearing none. The consideration of the measure is hereby suspended until tomorrow.

[02:34:45]>> Thank you Madame President.

[02:34:53]Madame President, at this juncture and uh pursuant to rule 10, section 13 of the rules of the Senate, may I respectfully move to elect Senator Mark Villar as chairperson of the Committee on Finance, Vice Senator Win Gachelan.

[02:35:07]So moved, Mr. President.

[02:35:09]>> Any objection? Hearing none, motion is approved.

[02:35:13]>> Thank you, Madame President. Um, Madame President, I move that we adjourn the session until 3:00 in the afternoon of Wednesday, May 20, 2026. So move.

[02:35:25]>> Any objection? Hearing? None. Session is adjourned until 3:00 in the afternoon of Wednesday, May 20, 2026.