The Senate on Monday approved several measures on third reading, ranging from stronger protections for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to transparency in law enforcement, support for education in remote areas, recognition of veterans, and the granting of Philippine citizenship to two foreign athletes.
Among the bills passed was Senate Bill No. 1917, the Overseas Filipino Workers’ Remittance Protection Act, which regulates remittance fees and prohibits unauthorized deductions.
The measure directs the Department of Finance, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, and Department of Migrant Workers to set allowable fee ranges and ensure transparency in foreign exchange transactions.
“With the passage of Senate Bill No. 1917, or the Overseas Filipino Workers’ Remittance Protection Act, this chamber has taken a meaningful step towards safeguarding the hard-earned remittances of our migrant workers and ensuring that the fruits of their labor reach their loved ones fairly and transparently,” said Senate Deputy Minority Leader Joel Villanueva.
The chamber also approved Senate Bill No. 1910, mandating free financial education programs for OFWs and their families.
Senator Raffy Tulfo emphasized its importance:
“The approval of this bill on third reading demonstrates our unwavering commitment to supporting OFWs, not only concerning their physical health and safety, but also in protecting their hard-earned money,” Tulfo said.
To strengthen accountability, senators passed Senate Bill No. 1908, requiring law enforcement officers to wear body cameras during operations.
Senate Deputy Majority Leader JV Ejercito said:
“Civilians will be protected from alleged irregularities in raids while law enforcers will not be accused of corruption and tampering.”
Other measures include Senate Bill No. 1937, the GIDA Schools Act, which creates a National GIDA Schools Mapping System to improve infrastructure planning and resource allocation for geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas.
Senator Loren Legarda noted the bill’s role in guiding policy interventions for underserved communities.
The Senate also approved Senate Bill No. 1719, declaring April as Philippine Veterans’ Month to honor Filipino veterans and promote welfare programs for them and their families.
Finally, the chamber passed House Bill Nos. 6640 and 6641, granting Philippine citizenship to foreign basketball players Maodo Diouf and Elizabeth Jeanette Means, enabling them to potentially represent the country in international competitions.