The Philippine Legislative Process: From Bill to Law Explained
Familiarizing and understanding the Philippine legislative process is crucial for law students who aspire to influence policy and contribute to governance, and, of course, to perform well in class! The legislative process which starts from proposed bill to am evential law law involves several structured steps that ensure thorough discussion, scrutiny, and representation of the people's interests.
So, the Philippine legislative process, simply stated:
Step 1: Introduction/ Proposal of a Bill
The legislative process begins with the proposal of a bill.
The proposal of a bill can be initiated by a member of either the House of Representatives or the Senate. Bills can cover a wide range of topics, from public health to education or taxation — and there is no limit to the number of bills that a member may introduce.
You can actually view the status of a bill by referring either to the Senate’s website or that of the House of Representatives.
Step 2: Bill Referrals; First Reading
Once a bill is drafted, it is formally introduced during the session.
In the first reading, the bill's title is read, and copies are distributed to all members. There is no debate or voting during this reading; the purpose is simply to inform the members about the proposed legislation — the title thereof and the author.
Step 3: Committee Review and Reports
After the first reading, the bill is referred to a committee relevant to its subject matter.
To give you an illustration of the committee freeview, for example, a bill related to education would go to the Committee on Education. Here, the committee members conduct a detailed review, holding hearings where experts and stakeholders can provide input. This phase is critical, as it allows for amendments and refinements based on feedback.
Step 4: Consideration of, and Debates on Bills; Second Reading
Once the committee is satisfied with the bill, it is brought back to the floor for the second reading.
In the second reading, members debate its merits, and any proposed amendments are discussed. A significant aspect of this step is that it allows for thorough examination and debate, ensuring that different viewpoints are considered. After the discussion, a vote is taken. If the bill passes, it moves to the next stage.
Step 5: Third Reading
The third reading involves a final review of the bill in its amended form. This stage is typically shorter, focusing on whether the bill should be approved in its current version. Members may express their final thoughts, but no further amendments are allowed. A vote is conducted, and if the bill receives majority approval, it proceeds to the other chamber (House or Senate, as the case may be).
Step 6: Consideration by the Other Chamber
Once the bill is approved by one chamber, it moves to the other for consideration.
The process repeats: the bill undergoes first, second, and third readings, allowing the members of the other chamber to debate and propose amendments. If the second chamber makes changes, the bill is returned to the original chamber for concurrence.
Step 7: Bicameral Conference Committee
If there are differences between the two chambers’ versions of the bill, a Bicameral Conference Committee is formed.
The Bicameral Conference Committee, consists of members from both chambers who negotiate to resolve discrepancies and create a unified version of the bill.
Step 8: Submission to the Malacañang; Presidential Approval
Once both chambers agree on a final version, the bill is sent to the President for approval. A bill can also become a law even without such signature if the President does not sign it within 30 days from receipt in his office.
The President can either sign the bill into law, allow it to become law without a signature after 30 days, or veto it. If vetoed, the bill can be reintroduced in Congress, but a two-thirds majority is required in both chambers to override the veto.
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