SENATE OFFICERS

Senate President

Sen. Franklin Drilon

Senate President Pro-Tempore

Sen. Ralph Recto

Majority Floor Leader

Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano

Minority Floor Leader

Sen. Juan Ponce Enrile

COMMITTEES UNDER SENATE

Committee on the Accountability of Public Officers and Investigations (Blue Ribbon)

Chairperson: Sen. Teofisto Guingona III

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to malfeasance, misfeasance and nonfeasance by officers and
employees of the government; implementation of the constitutional provision on nepotism; and
investigation of any matter of public interest on its own initiative or brought to its attention by any
member of the Senate.

Committee on Accounts

Chairperson:unfilled
Jurisdiction: All matters relating to the auditing and adjustment of all accounts chargeable against
the funds for the expenses and activities of the Senate.

Committee on Agrarian Reform

Chairperson: Sen. Gregorio Honasan II

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to agrarian reform, landed estates, and implementation of the
agrarian land reform provisions of the Constitution.

Committee on Agriculture and Food

Chairperson: Sen. Cynthia Villar

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to agriculture, food-production and agri-business, such as
agricultural experimental stations, soil survey and conservation, animal husbandry, and fisheries and
aquatic resources.

Committee on Banks, Financial Institutions, and Currencies

Chairperson: Sen. Sergio Osmea III

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to banks, financial institutions, government and private currencies,
capital markets, mutual funds, securitization, coinage and circulation of money.

Committee on Civil Service and Government Reorganization

Chairperson: Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to the civil service and the status of officers and employees of the
government including their compensation privileges, benefits, and collective negotiation agreements;
reorganization of the government or any of its branches; and all other matters relating to the
bureaucracy.

Committee on Climate Change

Chairperson: Sen. Loren Legarda

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to policies, programs, strategies, technologies and other innovations
addressing global warming and climate change impacts.

Committee on Constitutional Amendments and Revision of Codes

Chairperson: Sen. Miriam Defensor Santiago

Jurisdiction: All matters proposing amendments to the constitution of the Philippines, and the
revision of existing codes.

Committee on Cooperatives

Chairperson: Sen. Manuel Lapid

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to cooperatives, including farm credit and farm security, cooperative
movements, and the implementation of the Cooperative Code of the Philippines.

Committee on Cultural Communities

Chairperson: Sen. Loren Legarda

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to cultural communities.

Committee on Economic Affairs

Chairperson: Sen. Joseph Victor Ejercito

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to economic planning and programming, general economic
development, and coordination, regulation and diversification of industry and investments.

Committee on Education, Arts, and Culture

Chairperson: Sen. Pia Cayetano

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to education, schools, colleges, and universities; the implementation
of the constitution provision for a free public elementary and secondary education; non-formal,
informal and indigenous learning systems, and adult education; the preservation, enrichment and
evolution of Filipino arts and culture; and the establishment and maintenance of libraries, museums,
shrines, monuments, and other historical sites and edifices.

Committee on Electoral Reform and Peoples Participation

Chairperson: Sen. Aquilino Pimentel III

Jurisdiction: All matters pertaining to election laws and to the implementation of the constitutional
provisions on initiative and referendum on legislative acts, recall of elective officials, the role and
rights of peoples organizations, and sectoral or party list representation.

Committee on Energy

Chairperson: Sen. Sergio Osmea III

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to the exploration, exploitation, development, extraction,
importation, refining, transport, distribution, marketing, conservation, or storage of all forms of energy;
renewable and potential forms of energy resources; and generation, transmission and distribution of
electric power.

Committee on Environment and Natural Resources

Chairperson: Sen. Loren Legarda

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to the conservation and protection of the environment, and all
matters relating to the management, development, protection, exploration and utilization of the
countrys national reserves such as forest and mineral resources.

Committee on Ethics and Privileges

Chairperson:unfilled
Jurisdiction: All matters relating to the conduct, rights, privileges, safety, dignity, integrity, and
reputation of the Senate and its members.

Committee on Finance

Chairpersons: Sen. Francis Escudero (Subcommittee A), Sen. Sergio Osmea III (Subcommittee B),
Sen. Loren Legarda (Subcommittee C), Sen. Ralph Recto (Subcommittee D), Sen. Teofisto Guingona
III (Subcommittee E)
Jurisdiction: All matters relating to funds for the expenditures of the national government and for the
payment of public indebtedness; auditing of accounts and expenditures of the national government;
intergovernmental revenue sharing; and, in general, all matters relating to public expenditures.

Committee on Foreign Relations

Chairperson: Sen. Miriam Defensor Santiago

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to the relations of the Philippines with other nations; diplomatic and
consular service; the United Nations (UN) and its agencies, the Association of Southeast Asian
Nations (ASEAN), and other multilateral organizations; all international agreements, obligations and
contracts; and overseas Filipinos.

Committee on Games, Amusement, and Sports

Chairperson: Sen. Juan Edgardo Angara

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to games and amusement such as lotteries, horse-racing, boxing,
and basketball, and matters related to amateur grassroots and elite sports development.

Committee on Government Corporations and Public Enterprises

Chairperson: Sen. Cynthia Villar

Jurisdiction: All matters affecting government corporations, including all amendments to their
charters, the interests of the government industrial and commercial enterprises, and privatization.

Committee on Health and Demography

Chairperson: Sen. Teofisto Guingona III

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to public health, medical, hospital and quarantine services, and
population issues, concerns, policies and programs affecting individuals and their families.

Committee on Justice and Human Rights

Chairperson: Sen. Aquilino Pimentel III

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to the organization and administration of justice, civil courts, and
penitentiaries; impeachment proceedings against constitutional officers and other officers; registration
of land titles; immigration and naturalization; the implementation of the constitutional provisions on
human rights; and all matters pertaining to the efficiency and reforms in the prosecution service.

Committee on Labor, Employment, and Human Resources Development

Chairperson: Sen. Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to labor employment and human resource development; labor
education and standards; recruitment, training and placement of workers and exports of human
resources; and promotion and development of workers organizations.

Committee on Local Government

Chairperson: Sen. Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to autonomous regions, provinces, cities, special metropolitan
political subdivisions, municipalities, and barangays.

Committee on National Defense and Security

Chairperson: Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to national defense, and external and internal threats to national
security; the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP); war veterans and military retirees; civil defense;
and military research and development.

Committee on Peace, Unification, and Reconciliation

Chairperson: Sen. Teofisto Guingona III

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to peace, armed conflict resolution, political negotiation, cessation
of hostilities, amnesty, integration and development of former rebels, and national unification and
reconciliation.

Committee on Public Information and Mass Media

Chairperson: Sen. Grace Poe

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to public information, mass communication and broadcast services,
the implementation of the constitutional provisions regarding ownership of mass media and the
advertising industry, and the artistic standards and quality of the motion picture and television
industry.

Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs

Chairperson: Sen. Grace Poe

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to peace and order, the Philippine National Police (PNP), the
Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and private
security agencies; the possession, use, cultivation, manufacture, distribution and sale of prohibited
and regulated drugs, the prosecution of offenders, and rehabilitation of drug users and dependents.

Committee on Public Services

Chairperson: Sen. Ramon Revilla Jr.

Jurisdiction: All matters affecting public services and utilities, communications, land, air, river and
sea transportation including railroads, inter-island navigation and lighthouses, and the grant or
amendment of legislative franchises.

Committee on Public Works

Chairperson: Sen. Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to planning, construction, maintenance, improvement and repair of
public buildings, highways, bridges, roads, ports, airports, harbors and parks, drainage and flood
control, and irrigation and water utilities.

Committee on Rules

Chairperson: Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano

Jurisdiction: All matters affecting the rules of the Senate, the calendar and parliamentary rules, the
order and manner of transacting business, and the creation of committees.

Committee on Science and Technology

Chairperson: Sen. Ralph Recto

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to science and technology, including scientific and technological
research, development and advancement.

Committee on Social Justice, Welfare, and Rural Development

Chairperson: Sen. Maria Lourdes Binay

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to rural development and welfare, and the implementation of the
constitution provisions on social justice.

Committee on Tourism

Chairperson: Sen. Manuel Lapid

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to tourism and the tourist industry.

Committee on Trade, Commerce, and Entrepreneurship

Chairperson: Sen. Paolo Benigno Aquino IV

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to domestic and foreign trade and private corporations; micro, small
and medium enterprises (MSMEs); social enterprises; the promotion of entrepreneurship and the
regulation of entrepreneurial practice; patents, copyrights, trade names and trademarks; quality
control; control and stabilization of prices of commodities; consumer protection; and handicraft and
cottage industries.

Committee on Urban Planning, Housing, and Resettlement

Chairperson: Sen. Joseph Victor Ejercito

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to urban land reform planning, housing, resettlement, and urban
community development.

Committee on Ways and Means

Chairperson: Sen. Juan Edgardo Angara

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to revenue-generation, taxes and fees, tariffs, loans, and other
sources and forms of revenue.

Committee on Women, Family Relations, and Gender Equality

Chairperson: Sen. Pia Cayetano

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to the women, family relations, and equality before the law of
women and men.

Committee on Youth

Chairperson: Sen. Paolo Benigno Aquino IV

Jurisdiction: All matters related to the youth and its vital role in nation-building, promotion and
protection of their physical, moral, spiritual, intellectual and social well-being, and their involvement in
public and civic affairs.

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OFFICERS

House Speaker
Deputy House Speakers

Rep. Feliciano Belmonte Jr. (Quezon City, 4th District)

:

Rep. Henedina Abad (Batanes, Lone District)

Rep. Giorgidi Aggabao (Isabela, 4th District)

Rep. Sergio Apostol (Leyte, 2nd District)
Rep. Pangalian Balindong (Lanao del Sur, 2nd District)
Rep. Carlos Padilla (Nueva Vizcaya, Lone District)
Rep. Roberto Puno (Antipolo City, 1st District)
Majority Floor Leader

Rep. Neptali Gonzales II (Mandaluyong City, Lone District)

Minority Floor Leader

Rep. Ronaldo Zamora (San Juan City, Lone District)

COMMITTEES UNDER HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

Committee on Accounts

Chairperson: Rep. Eleandro Jesus Madrona (Romblon, Lone District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to the internal budget of the House of Representatives, including
budget preparation, submission and approval, disbursements, accounting, and financial operations.

Committee on Agrarian Reform

Chairperson: Rep. Teddy Brawner Baguilat Jr. (Ifugao, Lone District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to agrarian reform, the resettlement of and other support services
for agrarian reform beneficiaries, and the implementation and amendment of the Comprehensive
Agrarian Reform Law.

Committee on Agriculture and Food

Chairperson: Rep. Mark Llandro Mendoza (Batangas, 4th District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to food and agricultural production, agri-business, agricultural
research and technology, soil survey and research, irrigation, farm credit and security, animal
industry, and crop and livestock production.

Committee on Appropriations

Chairperson: Rep. Isidro Ungab (Davao City, 3rd District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to the expenditures of the national government including payment of
public indebtedness, creation or abolition and classification of positions in government, and the
determination of salaries, allowances and benefits of government personnel.

Committee on Aquaculture and Fisheries Resources

Chairperson: Rep. Benhur Salimbangon (Cebu, 4th District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to aquaculture and fisheries production and development,
aquaculture business, use of aquatic resources, freshwater and fisheries culture research and
technology, and conservation of rivers, lakes and other fisheries resources.

Committee on Banks and Financial Intermediaries

Chairperson: Rep. Sonny Collantes (Batangas, 3rd District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to banking and currency, government-owned or controlled banks
and financial institutions, non-government banks and financial institutions, insurance, and securities.

Committee on Basic Education and Culture

Chairperson: Rep. Kimi Cojuangco (Pangasinan, 5th District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to pre-school, elementary and secondary education, science high
schools (except the Philippine Science High School), teachers and students welfare, alternative
learning systems and community adult education, the national language, libraries and museums, and
the preservation and enrichment of Filipino culture.

Committee on Civil Service and Professional Regulation

Chairperson: Rep. Andres Salvacion Jr. (Leyte, 3rd District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to the organization, operation, management, rules and regulations
of the civil service, the welfare and benefits of government officers and employees, and the regulation
and practice of professions.

Committee on Constitutional Amendments

Chairperson: Rep. Mylene Garcia-Albano (Davao City, 2nd District)

Jurisdiction: All matters directly and principally relating to amendments or revisions of the
constitution.

Committee on Cooperatives Development

Chairperson: Rep. Cresente Paez (COOP NATCCO Party-list)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to cooperatives (consumer, producers, marketing, service, electric,
and multi-purpose), urban- and rural-based credit, and the implementation or amendment of the
Cooperative Code of the Philippines.

Committee on Dangerous Drugs

Chairperson: Rep. Vicente Belmonte Jr. (Iligan City, Lone District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to illegal or prohibited drugs, its production, manufacture, use and
trafficking, and the rehabilitation and treatment of drug dependents.

Committee on Ecology

Chairperson: Rep. Amado Bagatsing (Manila, 5th District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to ecosystem management, including pollution control.

Committee on Economic Affairs

Chairperson: Rep. Enrique Cojuangco (Tarlac, 1st District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to economic development planning and programs, inclusive of
economic and socio-economic studies, and development policies and strategies.

Committee on Energy

Chairperson: Rep. Reynaldo Umali (Oriental Mindoro, 2nd District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to the exploration, development, utilization or conservation of
energy resources, and entities involved in energy or power generation, transmission, distribution and
supply.

Committee on Ethics and Privileges

Chairperson: Rep. Joaquin Chipeco Jr. (Laguna, 2nd District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to the duties, conduct, rights, privileges and immunities, dignity,
integrity, and reputation of the House of Representatives and its members.

Committee on Foreign Affairs

Chairperson: Rep. Al Francis Bichara (Albay, 2nd District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to the relations of the Philippines with other countries, diplomatic
and consular services, the United Nations (UN) and its agencies, and other international
organizations and agencies.

Committee on Games and Amusements

Chairperson: Rep. Elpidio Barzaga Jr. (Cavite, 4th District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to all forms and places of gaming and amusements.

Committee on Good Governance and Public Accountability

Chairperson: Rep. Oscar Rodriguez (Pampanga, 3rd District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to malfeasance, misfeasance and nonfeasance by officers and
employees of the government, inclusive of investigations of any matter of public interest on its own
initiative or upon an order by the House of Representatives.

Committee on Government Enterprises and Privatization

Chairperson: Rep. Jesus Sacdalan (North Cotabato, 1st District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to the creation, organization, operation, reorganization, and
amendments of charters of government-owned or controlled corporations (GOCCs) including the
Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) and the Social Security System (SSS), but excluding
government-owned or controlled banks and financial institutions.

Committee on Government Reorganization

Chairperson: Rep. Romeo Acop (Antipolo City, 2nd District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to the reorganization of the government and its branches,
departments and instrumentalities, and the creation, abolition or change of the principal functions or
nature of any government department, agency, commission or board.

Committee on Health

Chairperson: Rep. Eufranio Eriguel, M.D. (La Union, 2nd District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to public health and hygiene, and quarantine, medical, hospital and
other health facilities and services.

Committee on Higher and Technical Education

Chairperson: Rep. Roman Romulo (Pasig City, Lone District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to post-secondary and tertiary education, technical education,
distance education, students and teachers welfare, and centers of excellence.

Committee on Housing and Urban Development

Chairperson: Rep. Alfredo Benitez (Negros Occidental, 3rd District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to shelter delivery, and the management of urbanization issues and
concerns such as urban planning and development, urban land reform and welfare of the urban poor.

Committee on Human Rights

Chairperson: Rep. Guillermo Romarate Jr. (Surigao del Norte, 2nd District)
Jurisdiction: All matters relating to the protection and enhancement of human rights, assistance to
victims of human rights violations and their families, the prevention of violations of human rights, and
the punishment of perpetrators of such violations.

Committee on Information and Communications Technology

Chairperson: Rep. Joel Roy Duavit (Rizal, 1st District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to postal, telegraph, radio, broadcast, cable television, telephone,
convergence, computers and telecommunications technologies, information systems inclusive of
hardware, software and content applications, mobile short messaging system (SMS) applications,
and networks that enable access to online technology.

Committee on Interparliamentary Relations and Diplomacy

Chairperson: Rep. Raul del Mar (Cebu City, 1st District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to inter-parliamentary relations and linkages with international
parliamentary organizations, establishment of inter-parliamentary friendship societies, and visits of
parliamentary delegations as well as other foreign dignitaries.

Committee on Justice

Chairperson: Niel Tupas Jr. (Iloilo, 5th District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to the administration of justice, the Judiciary, the practice of law and
integration of the Bar, legal aid, penitentiaries, impeachment proceedings, registration of land titles,
immigration, deportation, naturalization, and the definition of crimes and their penalties.

Committee on Labor and Employment

Chairperson: Rep. Karlo Alexei Nograles (Davao City, 1st District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to labor, the advancement and protection of workers rights and
welfare, employment and manpower development, labor standards, and the organization and
development of the labor market including the recruitment, training and placement of manpower.

Committee on Legislative Franchises

Chairperson: Rep. Marcelino Teodoro (Marikina City, 1st District)

Jurisdiction: All matters directly and principally relating to the grant, amendment, extension or
revocation of franchises.

Committee on Local Government

Chairperson: Rep. Pedro Acharon Jr. (South Cotabato, 1st District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to autonomous regions, provinces, cities, municipalities, and
barangays, including their revenues and expenditures.

Committee on Metro Manila Development

Chairperson: Rep. Winston Castelo (Quezon City, 2nd District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to policies and programs to promote and enhance the development
of the Metro Manila area.

Committee on Mindanao Affairs

Chairperson: Rep. Arnulfo Go (Sultan Kudarat, 2nd District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to the development of Mindanao, including the preparation of a
comprehensive and integrated development plan for Mindanao.

Committee on Muslim Affairs

Chairperson: Rep. Tupay Loong (Sulu, 1st District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to Muslim affairs inclusive of the welfare of Muslim Filipinos, and the
development of predominantly Muslim areas.

Committee on National Cultural Communities

Chairperson: Rep. Nancy Catamco (North Cotabato, 2nd District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to national cultural communities, and the development of
predominantly cultural community areas.

Committee on National Defense and Security

Chairperson: Rep. Rodolfo Biazon (Muntinlupa City, Lone District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to national defense and national security, the Armed Forces of the
Philippines (AFP), military bases, coast and geodetic surveys, and disaster relief and rescue.

Committee on Natural Resources

Chairperson: Rep. Francisco Matugas (Surigao del Norte, 1st District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to natural resources (except energy and fisheries resources) and
their exploration, conservation, management and utilization, public domain lands, mines and
minerals, forests, parks and wildlife, and marine resources.

Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs

Chairperson: Rep. Walden Bello (Akbayan Party-list)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to policies and programs on the promotion and protection of the
rights and welfare of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their families.

Committee on Peoples Participation

Chairperson: Rep. Benjamin Asilo (Manila, 1st District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to the role, rights and responsibilities of peoples organizations, nongovernment and civic organizations, and other similar groups, and the establishment of mechanisms
on peoples participation in governance and legislation.

Committee on Population and Family Relations

Chairperson: Rep. Rogelio Espina, M.D. (Biliran, Lone District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to population growth and family planning, population census and
statistics, family relations, and care of the elderly.

Committee on Poverty Alleviation

Chairperson: Rep. Salvio Fortuno (Camarines Sur, 5th District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to policies and programs to address the poverty situation in the
country and other actions to alleviate the plight of the poor, and promote their right to equal access to
opportunities.

Committee on Public Information

Chairperson: Rep. Jorge Almonte (Misamis Occidental, 1st District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to the production and dissemination of information to the public
through all forms of mass communications and media such as print and broadcast media, movie and
television, video, advertising, cable television, and the internet.

Committee on Public Order and Safety

Chairperson: Rep. Jeffrey Ferrer (Negros Occidental, 4th District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to the suppression of criminality including those on illegal gambling,
private armies, terrorism, organized crime and illegal drugs, regulation of firearms, firecrackers and
pyrotechnics, civil defense, private security agencies, and the Philippine National Police (PNP).

Committee on Public Works and Highways

Chairperson: Rep. Ronald Cosalan (Benguet, Lone District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to the planning, construction, maintenance, improvement and repair
of public infrastructure inclusive of buildings, highways, bridges, roads, parks, drainage, flood control
and water utilities.

Committee on Revision of Laws

Chairperson: Rep. Marlyn Primicias-Agabas (Pangasinan, 6th District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to the revision and codification of laws.

Committee on Rules

Chairperson: Rep. Neptali Gonzales II (Mandaluyong City, Lone District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to the rules of the House of Representatives, rules of procedure in
impeachment proceedings, order of business, calendar of business, the referral of bills, resolutions,
speeches, committee reports, messages, and the creation of committees.

Committee on Rural Development

Chairperson: Rep. Manuel Agyao (Kalinga, Lone District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to the development of rural areas and islands through policies,
programs, and support services including livelihood and enterprise development, microfinancing,
community mobilization and development, and access to rural projects funding and financing.

Committee on Science and Technology

Chairperson: Rep. Victor Yu (Zamboanga del Sur, 1st District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to science and technology including scientific and technological
research and development, science and technology education including the Philippine Science High
School System, intellectual property rights on biotechnology, and climate and weather forecasting.

Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship Development

Chairperson: Rep. Neil Benedict Montejo (An Waray Party-list)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to policies and programs on entrepreneurship development
including the promotion of entrepreneurship, support to entrepreneurs, and the establishment and
development of small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs).

Committee on Social Services

Chairperson: Rep. Arturo Robes (San Juan del Monte City, Lone District)
Jurisdiction: All matters relating to the social development and welfare of persons with disabilities or
special needs, including social services and interventions that enhance quality of life.

Committee on Suffrage and Electoral Reforms

Chairperson: Rep. Fredenil Castro (Capiz, 2nd District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to the protection and advancement of the right of suffrage, and the
conduct of elections, plebiscites, initiatives, recalls and referenda.

Committee on Tourism

Chairperson: Rep. Rene Relampagos (Bohol, 1st District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to the development and promotion of tourism and the tourist
industry, both domestic and international.

Committee on Trade and Industry

Chairperson: Rep. Mark Villar (Las Pias City, Lone District)

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

Committee on Transportation

Chairperson: Rep. Cesar Sarmiento (Catanduanes, Lone District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to land, sea, and air transportation, the establishment, operation,
management and regulation of airports, seaports and other mass transportation systems including rail
systems and roll on-roll off (RO-RO) systems, civil aviation, air transport agreements, transportation
safety standards, air transport security, and maritime security.

Committee on Veterans Affairs and Welfare

Chairperson: Rep. Herminia Roman (Bataan, 1st District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to the welfare of war veterans, veterans of military campaigns,
military retirees, and their surviving spouses and beneficiaries.

Committee on Ways and Means

Chairperson: Rep. Romero Quimbo (Marikina City, 2nd District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to the fiscal, monetary and financial affairs of the national
government, including tariff, taxation, revenues, borrowing, and credit and bonded indebtedness.

Committee on Welfare of Children

Chairperson: Rep. Aurora Enerio Cerilles (Zamboanga del Sur, 2nd District)
Jurisdiction: All matters relating to the needs, education and overall welfare of Filipino children.

Committee on Welfare and Gender Equality

Chairperson: Rep. Linabelle Ruth Villarica (Bulacan, 4th District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to the rights and welfare of women and female children and youth,
inclusive of their education, employment and working conditions, and concerns relating to gender
equality.

Committee on Youth and Sports Development

Chairperson: Rep. Anthony Del Rosario (Davao del Norte, 1st District)
Jurisdiction: All matters relating to youth development, including the development of their leadership
potentials and the promotion of their moral, physical, intellectual and social well-being, and sports
development.

Special Committee on Bases Conversion

Chairperson: Rep. Cinchona Cruz-Gonzales (CIBAC Party-list)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to policies and programs relating to bases conversion, the operation
of special economic zones in former military bases, sale of military camps, relocation of military
camps and personnel, and the construction of new military camps.

Special Committee on Bicol Recovery and Economic Development

Chairperson: Rep. Rodel Batocabe (Ako Bicol Party-list)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to policies and programs to promote the development of the Bicol
region, inclusive of developmental projects, care programs and the Bicol River basin project.

Special Committee on the East ASEAN Growth Area

Chairperson: Rep. Raymond Democrito Mendoza (TUCP Party-list)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to social, political, economic policies affecting the countries within
the area, and the promotion of trade and investment among these countries.

Special Committee on Food Security

Chairperson: Rep. Agapito Guanlao (Butil Party-list)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to programs and policies relating to food production and distribution,
sustained growth and self-reliance in the production of basic food commodities, the availability of
these commodities to the people, and long-term food security for the nation.

Special Committee on Globalization and WTO

Chairperson: Rep. Irwin Tieng (Buhay Party-list)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to the effects on various social sectors of World Trade Organization
(WTO) policies, and other actions to harness opportunities offered by globalization for development.

Special Committee on Land Use

Chairperson: Rep. Kaka Bag-ao (Dinagat Islands, Lone District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to land use issues inclusive of the enhancement of resource use
and management of indigenous cultural communities, preservation of historical and cultural heritage
sites, and linkages among agencies and stakeholders in land resource management.

Special Committee on Millennium Development Goals

Chairperson: Rep. Teodorico Haresco Jr. (Aklan, Lone District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to the achievement of the countrys commitment to the Millennium
Development Goals (MDGs) by 2015.

Special Committee on the North Luzon Growth Quadrangle

Chairperson: Rep. Maximo Dalog (Mountain Province, Lone District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to all policies and programs concerning the development of
municipalities, cities, provinces, and other local communities in the northwest Luzon area.

Special Committee on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity

Chairperson: Rep. Jim Hataman-Salliman (Basilan, Lone District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to negotiations and other initiatives in pursuit of the peace process
and national reconciliation, the cessation of hostilities generated by internal armed conflicts, and the
welfare of rebel-returnees.

Special Committee on Reforestation

Chairperson: Rep. Susan Yap (Tarlac, 2nd District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to policies and programs on reforestation, and other actions to
ensure the implementation of a sustained community-based nationwide reforestation program.

Committee on Southern Tagalog Development

Chairperson: Rep. Isidro Rodriguez Jr. (Rizal, 2nd District)

Jurisdiction: All matters relating to the development of the Southern Tagalog area, inclusive
agricultural areas, tourism, economic, and industrial estates and processing areas therein.

EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT

PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

The President of the Philippines is elected by direct vote by the people for a term of six years. He may
only serve for one term, and is ineligible for reelection. The term of the President of the Philippines starts
at noon of the 30th day of June after the election.
QUALIFICATIONS
The
current President, Benigno S. Aquino III, is the fifth President of the Fifth Republic and the 15th
President of the Philippines.
POWERS OF THE PRESIDENT
Besides the constitution, the powers of the President of the Philippines are specifically outlined
in Executive Order No. 292, s. 1987, otherwise known as the Administrative Code of 1987. The following
powers are:
1. Power of control over the executive branch
The President of the Philippines has the mandate of control over all the executive departments, bureaus,
and offices. This includes restructuring, reconfiguring, and appointments of their respective officials. The
Administrative Code also provides for the President to be responsible for the abovementioned offices
strict implementation of laws.
2. Power ordinance power
The President of the Philippines has the power to give executive issuances, which are means to
streamline the policy and programs of an administration. There are six issuances that the President may
issue. They are the following as defined in the Administrative Code of 1987:
Executive orders Acts of the President providing for rules of a general or permanent character in
implementation or execution of constitutional or statutory powers shall be promulgated in executive
orders.
Administrative orders Acts of the President which relate to particular aspects of governmental
operations in pursuance of his duties as the administrative head shall be promulgated in administrative
orders.
Proclamations Acts of the President fixing a date or declaring a status or condition of public moment or
interest, upon the existence of which the operation of a specific law or regulation is made to depend, shall
be promulgated in proclamations which shall have the force of an executive order.
Memorandum orders Acts of the President on matters of administrative detail, or of subordinate or
temporary interest which only concern a particular officer or government office shall be embodied in
memorandum orders.

Memorandum circulars Acts of the President on matters relating to internal administration, which the
President desires to bring to the attention of all or some of the departments, agencies, bureaus, or offices
of the government, for information or compliance, shall be embodied in memorandum circulars.
General or special orders Acts and commands of the President in his capacity as commander-in-chief
of the Armed Forces of the Philippines shall be issued as general or special orders.
It is important to note that during the term of President Ferdinand E. Marcos, he used executive issuances
known as presidential decrees as a form of legislation. These decrees have the full force and effect of
laws because at the time the legislature did not exist and, when the 1973 Constitution was put into full
force and effect, it gave the power to the President to do as such. This continued until the first year of
President Corazon C. Aquinos term. However, President Aquino opted to used executive orders instead
of presidential decrees. President Aquinos executive orders, however, still had the full force and effect of
laws until the ratification of the 1987 Constitution.
3. Power over aliens
The President of the Philippines has certain powers over non-Filipinos in the Philippines. The powers he
may exercise over foreigners in the country are as follows:

The chief executive may have an alien in the Philippines deported from the country after due
process.
The President may change the status of a foreigner, as prescribed by law, from a non-immigrant
status to a permanent resident status without necessity of visa.
The President may choose to overrule the Board of Commissioners of the Bureau of Immigration
before their decision becomes final and executory (after 30 days of the issuance of the decision).
The Board of Commissioners of the Bureau of Immigration has jurisdiction over all deportation
cases.
The president is also mandated by the Administrative Code of 1987 to exercise powers as
recognized by the generally accepted principles of international law.
4. Powers of eminent domain, escheat, land reservation and recovery of ill-gotten wealth
The President of the Philippines has the authority to exercise the power of eminent domain. The power of
eminent domains means the state has the power to seize or authorize the seizure of private property for
public use with just compensation. There are two constitutional provisions, however, that limit the exercise
of such power: Article III, Section 9 (1) of the Constitution provides that no person shall be deprived of
his/her life, liberty, or property without due process of law. Furthermore, Article III, Section 9 (2), provides
that private property shall not be taken for public use without just compensation.
Once the aforementioned conditions are met, the President may exercise the power of eminent domain
which are as follows:
Power of eminent domain The President shall determine when it is necessary or advantageous to
exercise the power of eminent domain in behalf of the national government, and direct the solicitor
general, whenever he deems the action advisable, to institute expropriation proceedings in the proper
court.
Power to direct escheat or reversion proceedings The President shall direct the solicitor general to
institute escheat or reversion proceedings over all lands transferred or assigned to persons disqualified
under the constitution to acquire land.

Power to reserve lands of the public and private domain of the government
(1) The president shall have the power to reserve for settlement or public use, and for specific public
purposes, any of the lands of the public domain, the use of which is not otherwise directed by law. The
reserved land shall thereafter remain subject to the specific public purpose indicated until otherwise
provided by law or proclamation.
(2) He shall also have the power to reserve from sale or other disposition and for specific public uses or
purposes, any land belonging to the private domain of the government, or any of the friar lands, the use of
which is not otherwise directed by law, and thereafter such land shall be used for the purposes specified
by such proclamation until otherwise provided by law.
Power over ill-gotten wealth The President shall direct the solicitor general to institute proceedings to
recover properties unlawfully acquired by public officials or employees, from them or from their nominees
or transferees.
Within the period fixed in, or any extension thereof authorized by, the constitution, the President shall
have the authority to recover ill-gotten properties amassed by the leaders and supporters of the previous
regime, and protect the interest of the people through orders of sequestration or freezing of assets or
accounts.
5. Power of appointment
The President may appoint officials of the Philippine government as provided by the constitution and laws
of the Philippines. Some of these appointments, however, may need the approval of the Committee on
Appointments (a committee composed of members from the House of Representatives and the Senate of
the Philippines).
6. Power of general supervision over local governments
The President of the Philippines, as chief executive, has the mandate to supervise local governments in
the Philippines, despite their autonomous status as provided by Republic Act No. 7160 otherwise known
as the Local Government Code of 1991.
Traditionally, this is done by the Department of the Interior and Local Government, headed by a cabinet
secretaryan alter ego of the President.
7. Other powers
Aside from the aforementioned powers of the President of the Philippines, he can also exercise powers
enumerated in the constitution, and powers given to him by law.

LINE
OFPRESIDENT
SUCCESSION OF THE PHILIPPINES
VICE
The Vice President of the Philippines is elected by direct vote by the people for a term of six years, and
may run for reelection once. The term of the Vice President of the Philippines starts at noon of the 30th
day of June after a regular election is held.
QUALIFICATIONS

AccordingOF
DUTIES
toTHE
the constitution,
VICE PRESIDENT
the vice president may concurrently assume a cabinet position should the
President of the Philippines offer the former one. The vice president will become a secretary concurrent to
the position of vice president.
Aside from the cabinet post, the vice president is mandated to assume the presidency in case of the
death, disability, or resignation of the incumbent President.
LINE OF
SUCCESSION
Should
there
be a vacancy of the Office of the Vice President, the President of the Philippines is required
by the constitution to nominate a replacement with the concurrence of Committee on Appointments.

CABINET SECRETARIES
FUNCTIONS
A CABINET SECRETARY
CABINETOF
SECRETARIES
Cabinet secretaries act as the alter ego of the President executing, with his authority, the power of the
Office of the President in their respective departments.
According to the OF
APPOINTMENT
Article
CABINET
7, Section
SECRETARIES
16, the President may appoint anyone to executive departments with
the consent of the Commission on Appointments. Names of individuals nominated to cabinet posts are
submitted to the Commission on Appointments for their consideration.
An individual may not assume his post in a given department unless confirmed by the Commission on
Appointments. However, the constitution provides for individuals becoming cabinet secretaries in an
acting capacity before they are confirmed. According to Article VII, Section 16 of the constitution, the
president may appoint anyone to cabinet posts even if Congress is in recess. These appointments are
valid until the Commission on Appointments disapproves them, or at the end of the next session of
Congress.
Not all cabinet members, however, are subject to confirmation of the Commission on Appointments.
According to the Commission of Appointments website, the following need confirmation in order to
assume their posts:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.

Executive Secretary
Secretary of Agrarian Reform
Secretary of Agriculture
Secretary of Budget and Management
Secretary of Education
Secretary of Energy
Secretary of Environment and Natural Resources
Secretary of Finance
Secretary of Foreign Affairs
Secretary of Health
Secretary of Justice
Secretary of Labor and Employment
Secretary of National Defense
Secretary of Public Works and Highways
Secretary of Science and Technology
Secretary of Social Welfare and Development
Secretary of the Interior and Local Government
Secretary of Trade and Industry
Secretary of Transportation and Communications
Secretary of Tourism

21. Commission on Higher Education

22. Director General of the National Economic and Development Authority
POWERS
A CABINET
As
stated OF
above,
a cabinetSECRETARY
secretary is the alter ego of the President in their respective departments.
Thus, they posses the power to issue directives relative to their departments, such as department orders.
These orders only apply to offices under a specific department under the cabinet secretarys jurisdiction.
Cabinet secretaries also act as advisors to the President of the Philippines for their areas.
LOCAL GOVERNMENTS
The executive branch extends beyond the national government. According to Article X, Section 4 of the
constitution, the President of the Philippines is mandated to supervise local governments all over the
country. However, because of Republic Act No. 7160, otherwise known as the Local Government Code of
1991, local governments enjoy relative autonomy from the national government.
Among the social services and facilities that local government should provide, as stipulated in Section 17
of the Local Government Code, are the following:

facilities and research services for agriculture and fishery activities, which include seedling
nurseries, demonstration farms, and irrigation systems;
health services, which include access to primary health care, maternal and child care, and
medicines, medical supplies and equipment;
social welfare services, which include programs and projects for women, children, elderly, and
persons with disabilities, as well as vagrants, beggars, street children, juvenile delinquents, and
victims of drug abuse;
information services, which include job placement information systems and a public library;
a solid waste disposal system or environmental management system;
municipal/city/provincial buildings, cultural centers, public parks, playgrounds, and sports facilities
and equipment;
infrastructure facilities such as roads, bridges, school buildings, health clinics, fish ports, water
supply systems, seawalls, dikes, drainage and sewerage, and traffic signals and road signs;
public markets, slaughterhouses, and other local enterprises;
public cemetery;
tourism facilities and other tourist attractions; and
sites for police and fire stations and substations and municipal jail.
Local government units also have the power to create its own sources of revenue and to levy taxes, fees,
and charges that shall accrue exclusively to them.
Each local government has its own chief executive. The following is the list of local chief executives:
1. barangay punong barangay (barangay chairman)
2. municipality municipal mayor
3. city city mayor
4. province provincial governor
The local chief executives have the power to approve or veto local ordinances recommended by the local
legislators.
Punong barangay
The punong barangay, as the chief executive of the barangay government, shall exercise and perform the
following powers and functions:
1. enforce all laws and ordinances which are applicable within the barangay;

2. negotiate, enter into, and sign contracts for and in behalf of the barangay, upon authorization of
the Sangguniang Barangay;
3. maintain public order in the barangay;
4. call and preside over the sessions of the Sangguniang Barangay and the Barangay Assembly;
5. appoint or replace the barangay treasurer, the barangay secretary, and other appointive barangay
officials;
6. organize and lead an emergency group for the maintenance of peace and order or on occasions
of emergency or calamity within the barangay;
7. prepare the annual executive and supplemental budgets of the barangay, in coordination with the
Barangay Development Council;
8. approve vouchers relating to the disbursement of barangay funds;
9. enforce laws and regulations relating to pollution control and protection of the environment;
10. administer the operation of the Katarungang Pambarangay;
11. exercise general supervision over the activities of the Sangguniang Kabataan;
12. ensure the delivery of basic social services and access to facilities;
13. conduct an annual palarong barangay which shall feature traditional sports and disciplines
included in national and international games; and
14. promote the general welfare of the barangay.
Municipal and city mayors
The municipal mayor and city mayor, as the chief executive of the municipal government and city
government, respectively, shall exercise and perform the following powers and functions:
1. Exercise general supervision and control over all programs, projects, services, and activities of
the municipal or city government:
1. determine the guidelines of municipal policies and be responsible to the Sangguniang
Bayan or Panlungsod for the program of government;
2. direct the formulation of the municipal or city development plan;
3. at the opening of the regular session of the Sangguniang Bayan or Panlungsod, present
the program of government and propose policies and projects for consideration;
4. initiate and propose legislative measures to the Sangguniang Bayan or Panlungsod;
5. represent the municipality or city in all its business transactions and sign on its behalf all
bonds, contracts, and obligations, upon authorization by the Sangguniang Bayan;
6. carry out emergency measures as may be necessary during and in the aftermath of manmade and natural disasters;
7. examine the books, records and other documents of all offices, officials, agents or
employees of the municipality or city;
8. visit component barangays of the municipality or city at least once every six months;
9. solemnize marriages, any provision of law to the contrary notwithstanding;
10. conduct a palarong bayan or panlungsod; and
11. submit to the provincial governor an annual report on the administration of the
municipality or city, and supplemental reports when unexpected events and situations
such as calamities arise.
2. Enforce all laws and ordinances, and implement all approved policies, programs, projects,
services and activities of the municipality or city:
1. issue executive orders as are necessary for the proper enforcement and execution of
laws and ordinances;
2. call conventions, seminars or meetings of any elective and appointive officials of the
municipality or city;
3. formulate and implement the peace and order plan of the municipality or city; and
4. call upon the appropriate law enforcement agencies to suppress disorder, riot, lawless
violence, rebellion or sedition or to apprehend violators of the law.
3. Initiate and maximize the generation of resources and revenues, to be used for the
implementation of development plans, program objectives and priorities:
1. prepare and submit to the Sangguniang Bayan or Panlungsod for approval the annual
executive and supplemental budgets of the municipality or city;
2. ensure that all taxes and other revenues of the municipality or city are collected;

3. issue, suspend or revoke licenses and permits;

4. adopt measures to safeguard and conserve land, mineral, marine, forest, and other
resources of the municipality or city;
5. provide efficient and effective property and supply management in the municipality or city;
and protect the funds, credits, rights and other properties of the municipality or city; and
6. institute or cause to be instituted administrative or judicial proceedings for violation of
ordinances in the collection of taxes, fees or charges, and for the recovery of funds and
property.
4. Ensure the delivery of basic services and the provision of adequate facilities as provided for
under Section 17 of the Local Government Code.

Provincial governors
The provincial governor, as the chief executive of the provincial government, shall exercise and perform
the following powers and duties:
1. Exercise general supervision and control over all programs, projects, services, and activities of
the provincial government:
1. determine the guidelines of municipal policies and be responsible to the Sangguniang
Panlalawigan for the program of government;
2. direct the formulation of the provincial development plan;
3. at the opening of the regular session of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, present the
program of government and propose policies and projects for consideration;
4. initiate and propose legislative measures to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan;
5. represent the province in all its business transactions and sign on its behalf all bonds,
contracts, and obligations, upon authorization by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan;
6. carry out emergency measures as may be necessary during and in the aftermath of manmade and natural disasters;
7. examine the books, records and other documents of all offices, officials, agents or
employees of the province;
8. furnish copies of executive orders issued by him to the Office of the President within 72
hours after their issuance;
9. visit component cities and municipalities at least once every six months;
10. represent the province in inter-provincial or regional sports councils or committees, and
coordinate the efforts of component cities or municipalities in the regional or national
palaro or sports development activities;
11. conduct an annual palarong panlalawigan; and
12. submit to the Office of the President an annual report on the administration and
development of the province, and supplemental reports when unexpected events and
situations such as calamities arise.
2. Enforce all laws and ordinances, and implement all approved policies, programs, projects,
services and activities of the province:
1. issue executive orders as are necessary for the proper enforcement and execution of
laws and ordinances;
2. call conventions, seminars or meetings of any elective and appointive officials of the
province;
3. in coordination with the component cities and municipalities, and the National Police
Commission, formulate and implement the peace and order plan of the province; and
4. call upon the appropriate law enforcement agencies to suppress disorder, riot, lawless
violence, rebellion or sedition or to apprehend violators of the law.
3. Initiate and maximize the generation of resources and revenues, to be used for the
implementation of development plans, program objectives and priorities:
1. prepare and submit to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan for approval the annual executive
and supplemental budgets of the province;

2. ensure that all taxes and other revenues of the province are collected;
3. issue, suspend or revoke licenses and permits;
4. adopt measures to safeguard and conserve land, mineral, marine, forest, and other
resources of the province;
5. provide efficient and effective property and supply management in the province; and
protect the funds, credits, rights and other properties of the province; and
6. institute or cause to be instituted administrative or judicial proceedings for violation of
ordinances in the collection of taxes, fees or charges, and for the recovery of funds and
property.
4. Ensure the delivery of basic services and the provision of adequate facilities as provided for
under Section 17 of the Local Government Code.

JUDICIAL BRANCH

SUPREME COURT
Judicial power rests with the Supreme Court and the lower courts, as established by law (Art. VIII, sec. 1
of the 1987 Constitution). Its duty is to settle actual controversies involving rights which are legally
demandable and enforceable (Art. VIII Sec. 1 (2)).
The judiciary enjoys fiscal autonomy. Its appropriation may not be reduced by the Legislature below the
appropriated amount the previous year (Art. VIII, Sec. 3).

RULES
AND
PROCEDURES
The
Rules
of Court
of the Philippines, as amended and the rules and regulations issued by the Supreme
Court, define the rules and procedures of the judiciary. These rules and regulations are in the form of
administrative matters, administrative orders, circulars, memorandum circulars, memorandum orders, and
OCA circulars. The Supreme Court disseminates these rules and regulations to all courts, publishes
important ones in newspapers of general circulation, prints them in book or pamphlet form, and uploads
them to the Supreme Court website and the Supreme Court E-Library website.

On June 21, 1988, the Supreme Court promulgated the Code of Professional Responsibility for the legal
profession. The draft was prepared by the Committee on Responsibility, Discipline and Disbarment of the
Integrated Bar of the Philippines.
By virtue of Article
APPOINTMENTS
TOVIII,
THESection
JUDICIARY
8, appointments to the judiciary are made by the President of the
Philippines based on a list submitted by the Judicial and Bar Council which is under the supervision of the
Supreme Court. Its principal function is to screen prospective appointees to any judicial post. It is
composed of the chief justice as ex-officio chairman, the Secretary of Justice and representatives of
Congress as ex-officio members, and a representative of the Integrated Bar, a professor of law, a retired
member of the Supreme Court and a representative of the private sector as members.
PHILIPPINE
JUDICIAL
The
Philippine
Judicial ACADEMY
Academy (PHILJA) is the training school for justices, judge, court personnel,
lawyers and aspirants to judicial posts. It was originally created by the Supreme Court on March 16,
1996 by virtue of Administrative Order No. 35-96, and was institutionalized on February 26, 1998 by virtue
of Republic Act No. 8557. No appointee to the bench may commence the discharge his adjudicative
function without completing the prescribed court training in the academy. Its organizational structure and
administrative setup are provided for by the Supreme Court in its en banc resolution (Revised A.M. No.
01-1-04-sc-PHILJA).
The Philippine
PHILIPPINE
MEDIATION
Mediation Center
CENTER
was organized pursuant to the en banc Supreme Court Resolution A.M.
No. 01-10-5-SC-PHILJA, dated October 16, 2001, and in line with the objectives of the Action Program for
Judicial Reforms (APJR) to decongest court dockets, among others, the court prescribed guidelines in
institutionalizing and implementing the mediation program in the Philippines. The same resolution
designated the Philippine Judicial Academy as the component unit of the Supreme Court for CourtAnnexed Mediation and other Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms, and established the
Philippine Mediation Center (PMC).
Mandatory Continuing Legal Education Office was organized to implement the rules on Mandatory
Continuing Legal Education for members of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (B.M. No. 850
Mandatory Continuing Legal Education (MCLE)). It holds office in the Integrated Bar of the Philippines
main office.
KATARUNGANG
PAMBARANGAY
Presidential
Decree
No. 1508, or the Katarungang Pambarangay Law, took effect on December 11, 1978,
and established a system of amicably settling disputes at the barangay level. This decree and the Local
Government Code provided rules and procedures, Title I, Chapter 7, Sections 339-422. This system of
amicable settlement of dispute aims to promote the speedy administration of justice by easing the
congestion of court dockets. The court does not take cognizance of cases filed if they are not filed first
with the Katarungang Pambarangay.
Republic Act No.DISPUTE
ALTERNATIVE
9285 institutionalized
RESOLUTION
the(ADR)
use ofSYSTEM
an alternative dispute resolution system , which serves
to promote the speedy and impartial administration of justice and unclog the court dockets. This act shall
be without prejudice to the adoption of the Supreme Court of any ADR system such as mediation,
conciliation, arbitration or any combination thereof.
THE SUPREME COURT
PRESENT-DAY
SUPREME
COURT
According
to the
1987 Constitution,
Article VIII, Section 5, the Supreme Court exercises the
following powers:

Exercise jurisdiction over cases affecting ambassadors, other public ministers and consuls, and
over petitions for certiorari, prohibition, mandamus, quo warranto, and habeas corpus.

Review, revise, reverse, modify, or affirm, on appeal or certiorari, as the law or the Rules of Court
may provide, final judgments and orders of the lower courts in:
All cases in which the constitutionality or validity of any treaty, international or
executive agreement, law, presidential decree, proclamation, order, instruction,
ordinance, or regulation is in question;
All cases involving the legality of any tax, impost, assessment, or toll, or any
penalty imposed in relation thereto;
All cases in which the jurisdiction of any lower court is in issue;
All criminal cases in which the penalty imposed is reclusion perpetua or higher;
All cases in which only an error or question of law is involved;

Assign temporarily judges of lower courts to other stations as public interest may require. Such
temporary assignments shall not exceed six months without the consent of the judge concerned.

Order a change of venue or place of trial to avoid a miscarriage of justice.

Promulgate rules concerning the protection and enforcement of constitutional rights, pleading,
practice, and procedure in all courts; the admission to the practice of law, the Integrated Bar; and
legal assistance to the underprivileged. Such rules shall provide a simplified and inexpensive
procedure for the speedy disposition of cases, shall be uniform for all courts the same grade, and
shall not diminish, increase or modify substantive rights. Rules of procedure of special courts and
quasi-judicial bodies shall remain effective unless disapproved by the Supreme Court.

Appoint all officials and employees of the Judiciary in accordance with the Civil Service Law (Sec.
5 , id.).
The Supreme Court has adopted and promulgated the Rules of Court for the protection and enforcement
of constitutional rights, pleadings and practice and procedure in all courts, and the admission in the
practice of law. Amendments are promulgated through the Committee on Revision of Rules. The Court
also issues administrative rules and regulations in the form of court issuances posted on the Supreme
Court E-Library website.
Court of Appeals
The Court of Appeals is the second highest tribunal in the country, which was established on February 1,
1936 by virtue of Commonwealth Act No. 3. The current form of the Court of Appeals was constituted
through Batas Pambansa Blg. 129, as amended by Executive Order No. 33, s. 1986, Republic Act No.
7902, and Republic Act No. 8246.
The jurisdiction of the Court of Appeals are as follows:
1. Original jurisdiction to issue writs of mandamus, prohibition, certiorari, habeas corpus, and quo
warranto, and auxiliary writs or processes, whether or not in aid of its appellate jurisdiction;
2. Exclusive original jurisdiction over actions for annulment of judgements of Regional Trial Courts;
and
3. Exclusive appellate jurisdiction over all final judgements, resolutions, orders or awards of
Regional Trial Courts and quasi-judicial agencies, instrumentalities, boards or commission.
The Court of Appeals shall also have the power to try cases and conduct hearings, receive evidence and
perform acts necessary to resolve factual issues raised in cases falling within its original and appellate
jurisdiction, including the power to grant and conduct new trials or proceedings.

The Court of Appeals is composed of one presiding justice and 68 associate justices, all of which are
appointed by the President from a shortlist submitted by the Judicial and Bar Council. The associate
justices shall have precedence according to the dates (or order, in case of similar appointment dates) of
their respective appointments. The qualifications for the justices of the Supreme Court also apply to
members of the Court of Appeals.
The current presiding justice of the Court of Appeals is Andres Reyes Jr., who is set to retire on May 11,
2020.
Court of Tax Appeals
The Court of Tax Appeals (CTA), which is of the same level as the Court of Appeals, was created by virtue
of Republic Act No. 1125, which was signed into law on June 16, 1954. Its present-day form was
constituted through RA 1125, as amended by Republic Act No. 9282 and Republic Act No. 9503.
The CTA exercises jurisdiction in the following:
1. Exclusive appellate jurisdiction to review by appeal, as herein provided:
1. Decisions of the Commissioner of Internal Revenue in cases involving disputed
assessments, refunds of internal revenue taxes, fees or other charges, penalties in
relation thereto, or other matters arising under the National Internal Revenue or other
laws administered by the Bureau of Internal Revenue;
2. Inaction by the Commissioner of Internal Revenue in cases involving disputed
assessments, refunds of internal revenue taxes, fees or other charges, penalties in
relations thereto, or other matters arising under the National Internal Revenue Code or
other laws administered by the Bureau of Internal Revenue, where the National Internal
Revenue Code provides a specific period of action, in which case the inaction shall be
deemed a denial;
3. Decisions, orders or resolutions of the Regional Trial Courts in local tax cases originally
decided or resolved by them in the exercise of their original or appellate jurisdiction;
4. Decisions of the Commissioner of Customs in cases involving liability for customs duties,
fees or other money charges, seizure, detention or release of property affected, fines,
forfeitures or other penalties in relation thereto, or other matters arising under the
Customs Law or other laws administered by the Bureau of Customs;
5. Decisions of the Central Board of Assessment Appeals in the exercise of its appellate
jurisdiction over cases involving the assessment and taxation of real property originally
decided by the provincial or city board of assessment appeals;
6. Decisions of the Secretary of Finance on customs cases elevated to him automatically for
review from decisions of the Commissioner of Customs which are adverse to the
Government under Section 2315 of the Tariff and Customs Code;
7. Decisions of the Secretary of Trade and Industry, in the case of non-agricultural product,
commodity or article, and the Secretary of Agriculture in the case of agricultural product,
commodity or article, involving dumping and countervailing duties under Section 301 and
302, respectively, of the Tariff and Customs Code, and safeguard measures under
Republic Act No. 8800, where either party may appeal the decision to impose or not to
impose said duties.
2. Jurisdiction over cases involving criminal offenses as herein provided:
1. Exclusive original jurisdiction over all criminal offenses arising from violations of the
National Internal Revenue Code or Tariff and Customs Code and other laws administered
by the Bureau of Internal Revenue or the Bureau of Customs: Provided, however, that
offenses or felonies mentioned in this paragraph where the principal amount of taxes and
fees, exclusive of charges and penalties, claimed is less than P1 million or where there is

no specified amount claimed shall be tried by the regular courts and the jurisdiction of the
CTA shall be appellate.
2. Exclusive appellate jurisdiction in criminal offenses:
1. Over appeals from the judgments, resolutions or orders of the Regional Trial
Courts in tax cases originally decided by them, in their respective territorial
jurisdiction.
2. Over petitions for review of the judgments, resolutions or orders of the Regional
Trial Courts in the exercise of their appellate jurisdiction over tax cases originally
decided by the Metropolitan Trial Courts, Municipal Trial Courts and Municipal
Circuit Trial Courts in their respective jurisdiction.
3. Jurisdiction over tax collection cases as herein provided:
1. Exclusive original jurisdiction in tax collection cases involving final and
executory assessments for taxes, fees, charges and penalties: Provided,
however, that collection cases where the principal amount of taxes and
fees, exclusive of charges and penalties, claimed is less than P1 million
shall be tried by the proper Municipal Trial Court, Metropolitan Trial Court
and Regional Trial Court.
2. Exclusive appellate jurisdiction in tax collection cases:
1. Over appeals from the judgments, resolutions or orders of the
Regional Trial Courts in tax collection cases originally decided by
them, in their respective territorial jurisdiction.
2. Over petitions for review of the judgments, resolutions or orders
of the Regional Trial Courts in the Exercise of their appellate
jurisdiction over tax collection cases originally decided by the
Metropolitan Trial Courts, Municipal Trial Courts and Municipal
Circuit Trial Courts, in their respective jurisdiction.
The CTA is composed of one presiding justice and 8 associate justices, all of which are appointed by the
President from a shortlist submitted by the Judicial and Bar Council. The associate justices shall have
precedence according to the dates (or order, in case of similar appointment dates) of their respective
appointments. The qualifications for the justices of the Court of Appeals also apply to members of the
CTA.
The current presiding justice of the CTA is Roman del Rosario, who is set to retire on October 6, 2025.
Sandiganbayan
To attain the highest norms of official conduct among officials and employees in the government, the
creation of a special graft court to be known as the Sandiganbayan was provided for in Article XIII,
Section 5 of the 1973 Constitution. This court was formally established through Presidential Decree No.
1606, which was signed into law on December 10, 1978.
Through Article XI (Accountability of Public Officers), Section 4 of the 1987 Constitution, the
Sandiganbayan was carried over to the post-EDSA Revolution republic. The current form of the
Sandiganbayan was constituted through PD 1606, s. 1978, as amended by Republic Act No. 7975 and
Republic Act No. 8245.
The Sandiganbayan has jurisdiction over the following:
1. Violations of Republic Act No. 3019 or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, as amended, and
Chapter II, Section 2, Title VII, Book II of the Revised Penal Code, where one or more of the
accused are officials occupying the following positions in the government whether in a
permanent, acting or interim capacity, at the time of the commission of the offense:
1. Officials of the executive branch occupying the positions of regional director and higher,
otherwise classified as grade 27 and higher, of the Compensation and Position
Classification Act of 1989 (Republic Act No. 6758), specifically including:

1. Provincial governors, vice-governors, members of the sangguniang panlalawigan

and provincial treasurers, assessors, engineers and other provincial department
heads;
2. City mayors, vice-mayors, members of the sangguniang panlungsod, city
treasurers, assessors engineers and other city department heads;
3. Officials of the diplomatic service occupying the position of consul and higher;
4. Philippine army and air force colonels, naval captains, and all officers of higher
rank;
5. Officers of the Philippine National Police while occupying the position of
provincial director and those holding the rank of senior superintendent or higher;
6. City and provincial prosecutors and their assistants, and officials and prosecutors
in the Office of the Ombudsman and special prosecutor;
7. Presidents, directors or trustees, or managers of government-owned or
-controlled corporations, state universities or educational institutions or
foundations;
2. Members of Congress and officials thereof classified as grade 27 and up under the
Compensation and Position Classification Act of 1989;
3. Members of the judiciary without prejudice to the provisions of the constitution;
4. Chairmen and members of constitutional commissions, without prejudice to the
provisions of the constitution; and
5. All other national and local officials classified as Grade 27 and higher under the
Compensation and Position Classification Act of 1989.
2. Other offenses or felonies whether simple or complexed with other crimes committed by the
public officials and employees mentioned in subsection a of this section in relation to their office.
3. Civil and criminal cases filed pursuant to and in connection with Executive Order Nos. 1,
2, 14 and 14-A, s. 1986.
In addition, the Sandiganbayan exercises exclusive appellate jurisdiction over final judgments, resolutions
or orders or regional trial courts whether in the exercise of their own original jurisdiction or of their
appellate jurisdiction as herein provided.
The Sandiganbayan also has exclusive original jurisdiction over petitions for the issuance of the writs of
mandamus, prohibition, certiorari, habeas corpus, injunctions, and other ancillary writs and processes in
aid of its appellate jurisdiction and over petitions of similar nature, including quo warranto, arising or that
may arise in cases filed or which may be filed under Executive Order Nos. 1,2,14 and 14-A issued in
1986.
In case private individuals are charged as co-principals, accomplices or accessories with the public
officers or employees, including those employed in govemment-owned or controlled corporations, they
shall be tried jointly with said public officers and employees in the proper courts which shall exercise
exclusive jurisdiction over them.
The Sandiganbayan comprises of one presiding justice and 14 associate justices, all of which are
appointed by the President from a shortlist submitted by the Judicial and Bar Council. The associate
justices shall have precedence according to the dates (or order, in case of similar appointment dates) of
their respective appointments.
The qualifications to become a member of the Sandiganbayan are as follows:
1. a natural-born citizen of the Philippines;
2. at least 40 years of age
3. has been a judge of a court for at least ten years, or been engaged in the practice of law in the
Philippines or has held office requiring admission to the bar as a prerequisite for at least ten
years.
The current presiding justice of the Sandiganbayan is Amparo Cabotaje-Tang, who is set to retire on
November 8, 2024.