INCLUSIVE

VOICES
A Gender-Fair Language Guidebook
for Legislators, Legislative Staff,
and the Public
 A Publication of
House of Representatives
Gender and Development Focal Point System
Gender and Development Technical Working Group

ISBN 978-621-8014-48-0 Softbound/Paperback

ISBN 978-621-8014-49-7 PDF (downloadable)

First Edition, January 2024

Editorial Board
Atty. Annalou S. Nachura, Deputy Secretary General
Dr. Edgardo H. Pangilinan, Deputy Secretary General
Atty. Roentgen F. Bronce, Executive Director
Atty. Apryll Jin Therese M. Dumas, Executive Director

Contributors
Atty. Jose Noel A. Garong, Executive Director
Ms. Jannalenna S. Olladas, Director
Atty. Arnel C. Abeleda
Atty. Rene A. Delorino
Ms. Joy Elena C. Piccio

Layout and Design

Ms. Catherine L. Pangilinan
Mr. Waldemar T. Alvarez
Ms. Alliah Mae V. Adriano

Printing and Reproduction Service

House of Representatives
Batasan Hills, Quezon City 1126
congress.gov.ph
Inclusive Voices: A Gender-Fair Language GuideBook for Legislators, Legislative Staff, and the Public

MESSAGE

I am delighted to express
my strong support for the
publication of INCLUSIVE
VOICES: A Gender-Fair
Language Guidebook for
Legislators, Legislative Staff,
and the Public. This guidebook
exemplifies our unwavering
commitment to equity, justice,
and inclusivity within the
House of Representatives.

Language wields immense

influence, shaping our
thoughts and actions. As we
draft legislation and engage with our constituents, it is our duty to
ensure that our words align with the values of a just and inclusive
society. Our choice of words can either reinforce stereotypes
or promote understanding and acceptance. This guidebook
champions progress and equality through the adoption of gender-
fair language, recognizing the diversity within our society and
upholding the dignity of every individual, irrespective of gender
identity.

As advocates for gender equality, we recognize the weight

that our words carry. Let us employ them to build bridges,
dismantle barriers, and establish a more inclusive and just
legislative environment. Together, we can set a national example,
demonstrating that unity in diversity is not a mere slogan but a
guiding principle in our work.

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 Inclusive Voices: A Gender-Fair Language GuideBook for Legislators, Legislative Staff, and the Public

Congratulations to the Gender and Development Focal Point

System (GFPS) for their dedicated efforts in creating this
invaluable resource. May “INCLUSIVE VOICES” serve as an
inspiring beacon, propelling us forward in our journey toward a
more gender-equal future.

In solidarity and with steadfast commitment,

REP. YEDDA MARIE K. ROMUALDEZ

Tingog Party List
Chairperson, Committee on Accounts
Chairperson, Association of Women Legislators Foundation, Inc.

4
Inclusive Voices: A Gender-Fair Language GuideBook for Legislators, Legislative Staff, and the Public

MESSAGE

To my esteemed colleagues
and the people of the
Philippines,

In the grand scheme of our

nation’s history, there have
been threads of change,
colors of progress, and
designs of unity. Today, we
introduce another vibrant
thread with the launch of
the gender-fair language
guidebook. This is not just a
book, but a testament to the
evolving consciousness of our
legislature and our steadfast commitment to equity, inclusivity,
and the dignity of every Filipino.

I am reminded of my own journey as the first transgender

woman elected to the House of Representatives. The challenges
I faced and the voices I heard reinforced the importance
of language. Language has the power to uplift or demean,
to include or ostracize, to empower or diminish. With this
guidebook, we acknowledge that gender-fair language is not
just a choice—it is a responsibility. The “How to be a Gender-
Responsive Legislator” guidebook set the path, and today, we
move further along that road.

For far too long, the language of our laws and our daily
discourse has inadvertently reflected biases, often

5
 Inclusive Voices: A Gender-Fair Language GuideBook for Legislators, Legislative Staff, and the Public

marginalizing many who do not fit into conventional molds.

By adopting gender-fair language, we are making a resounding
statement: that every individual, regardless of gender identity
or expression, deserves respect and recognition in our laws,
policies, and daily conversations.

This milestone reminds us that our quest for gender equality is

both personal and collective. As representatives of the people,
it is our duty to ensure that our words echo the aspirations,
hopes, and realities of every Filipino, especially those who
have been marginalized for far too long. This guidebook is
not just about changing words; it is about changing mindsets,
challenging stereotypes, and building a more inclusive
Philippines.

I am both honored and humbled to be part of this

transformative moment. Let us embrace this guidebook with
open hearts and minds, as we continue to write this vibrant,
diverse, and unified story that is our nation’s history.

In solidarity and with hope for a more inclusive Philippines,

REP. GERALDINE B. ROMAN

First District of Bataan
Chairperson, House Committee on Women and Gender Equality

6
 Inclusive Voices: A Gender-Fair Language GuideBook for Legislators, Legislative Staff, and the Public

MESSAGE

Language sets the tone,

defines relationships, and
reveals societal beliefs
and behaviors. If we are to
advance our society and seek
to further professionalize
our parliamentary practices,
we must take the necessary
steps now to bridge the
divide caused by gendered
language in our official
communications in the
House of Representatives.

Under the astute leadership

of Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, the House of
Representatives Gender and Development Focal Point System
(GFPS) with the technical assistance of the GFPS Technical
Working Group (GFPS-TWG) has initiated the publication of
Inclusive Voices: A Gender-Fair Language Guidebook for
Legislators, Legislative Staff, and the Public.

In our aim to eliminate the use of gendered language that

excludes or renders invisible women and other genders, this
Guidebook helps us identify commonly used words and
phrases in the House of Representatives that foster unequal
gender relations, or which trivialize or otherwise diminish
the stature of women and other genders, and avoid its use in
crafting letters, reports, legislative documents, and official

7
 Inclusive Voices: A Gender-Fair Language GuideBook for Legislators, Legislative Staff, and the Public

communications. This Guidebook is recommendatory, and we

continue to respect the myriad views and voices of individual
Members of the House. Nevertheless, we in the Secretariat
join the efforts of the Civil Service Commission, the Philippine
Commission on Women, and the Judiciary, and support
the promotion of the use of gender-fair language in official
government communications.

I congratulate the enlightened officials and employees involved

in this publication. May this guidebook serve as our first steps
in building a better House of the People—a House that seeks
to empower women and other genders by acknowledging
them, accepting them as equals, and making sure that they
are included in our ongoing conversation on the local and
national affairs of our beloved Philippines. Let us all help build
a “Bagong Pilipinas” for all Filipinos.

Mabuhay po kayong lahat.

REGINALD S. VELASCO
Secretary General

8
Inclusive Voices: A Gender-Fair Language GuideBook for Legislators, Legislative Staff, and the Public

INTRODUCTION

Words can heal or unite, just as they can hurt or alienate

people. The language we habitually employ in the workplace
reflects not just our thoughts but also carries our implicit
prejudices and worldview. The repeated use of sexist or
gendered language perpetuates harmful gender inequalities by
rendering one sex, often women, invisible or trivialized while
reinforcing notions of male supremacy.

As public servants working in the Legislative Department,

we must be constantly aware of the constitutional edict that
recognizes the role of women in nation building, the mandate
to eliminate discrimination in the treatment of women and
other genders in several landmark laws such as the Magna
Carta for Women, and the enlightened initiative of other
government agencies like the Civil Service Commission and
the Supreme Court that have issued guidelines on the use on
gender fair language in the workplace such as Civil Service
Commission Memorandum Circular (CSC MC) No. 12, Series
of 2005, which encourages government employees and officials
“to make a conscious effort to avoid implicit and explicit
discriminatory language against women or men, which will
help promote gender-sensitivity in the bureaucracy.”

In our efforts to strengthen the gender and development

programs and policies of the House of Representatives in the
19th Congress under the able leadership of Speaker Ferdinand
Martin G. Romualdez, the Gender and Development Focal
Point System (GFPS) with the technical assistance of the GFPS

9
 Inclusive Voices: A Gender-Fair Language GuideBook for Legislators, Legislative Staff, and the Public

Technical Working Group (TWG) has developed Inclusive

Voices: A Gender-Fair Language Guidebook for Legislators,
Legislative Staff, and the Public. This publication aims to
promote and standardize the use of gender-fair language in
official letters and communications, bills, resolutions, reports,
informational materials, and other documents and issuances
emanating from the House of Representatives. The purpose
of this guidebook is not to impose a rigid set of rules, but to
aspire to craft legislation using the lens of equity and justice
and to foster a sense of inclusion and belonging for people of all
genders in the House of Representatives.

By adopting gender-fair language in all its bills, resolutions,

official communications and issuances, the House of
Representatives embraces the spirit of equity and respect for all
individuals.

Together, let us speak a language that spurs unity,

understanding, and progress for all genders in the House of
Representatives.

ATTY. ANNALOU S. NACHURA

Deputy Secretary General for Legal Affairs
Co-Chairperson, GFPS
House of Representatives

10
 General
Guidelines On
Using
Gender-Fair
Language
 Inclusive Voices: A Gender-Fair Language GuideBook for Legislators, Legislative Staff, and the Public

Gender-fair language is the use of words in written and spoken

communication that helps to eliminate any bias or exclusion
based on gender. The use of gender-fair language is a powerful
tool in promoting respect, acknowledging diversity, and ensuring
that everyone, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity,
and expression, feels valued and represented.

As we strive for a more inclusive and equitable society that values

the dignity of every person and guarantees full respect for human
rights, it is essential to recognize the impact of language on
gender representation and to foster respectful communication
that embraces the diversity of identities, expressions, and
experiences, working towards a more respectful and inclusive
House of Representatives.

12
 Inclusive Voices: A Gender-Fair Language GuideBook for Legislators, Legislative Staff, and the Public

Avoid using gender-based personal pronouns such as he/him/

his, or she/her/hers, unless it specifically applies to one particular
gender. Here are some recommendations in writing sentences
that would eliminate the need for gender-based personal
pronouns:

1. Use articles such as “the,” “a,” “an” or “that” to replace the

personal pronoun.

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 Inclusive Voices: A Gender-Fair Language GuideBook for Legislators, Legislative Staff, and the Public

AVOID USE
The Secretary General, or his duly The Secretary General, or a duly
authorized representative, shall authorized representative, shall
sign the Memorandum. sign the Memorandum.
An applicant must include a An applicant must include a
Personnel Data Sheet with his Personnel Data Sheet with the
application. application.
An employee who fails to file his An employee who fails to file an
application for leave of absence application for leave of absence
may be subject to sanctions. may be subject to sanctions.

2. Use the plural form of nouns and pronouns.

AVOID USE
An employee who fails to report Employees who fail to report
to work shall file his leave of to work shall file their leaves of
absence. absence.
A House Member must register House Members must register
his vote with the secretariat their votes with the secretariat
during the session. during the session.
An intern who has completed his Interns who have completed
required hours of work in a day their required hours of work in a
may submit his timecard to his day may submit their timecards
supervisor. to their supervisor.

3. Substitute a noun for the pronoun.

AVOID USE
The panel will deliberate if The panel will deliberate if the
he should be included in the individual should be included in
shortlist. the shortlist.
After tallying the votes, he who After tallying the votes, the
has garnered the most votes shall candidate who has garnered the
be declared the winner. most votes shall be declared the
winner.
He shall submit the form together The applicant shall submit
with all the requirements. the form together with all the
requirements.

14
Inclusive Voices: A Gender-Fair Language GuideBook for Legislators, Legislative Staff, and the Public

4. Repeat the subject of the sentence or the antecedent

reference.

AVOID USE
No person shall be appointed as No person shall be appointed as
a Director unless he is a natural- a Director unless the person is a
born citizen. natural-born citizen.
If the investigator finds probable If the investigator finds probable
cause, he may file the complaint. cause, the investigator may file
the complaint.
When an employee works on When an employee works on
a holiday, he will be entitled to a holiday, the employee will be
holiday pay. entitled to holiday pay.

5. Omit the pronoun or the phrase that includes the pronoun if

the pronoun or phrase is not essential.

AVOID USE
The board member shall hold The board member shall hold
his office until a successor is office until a successor is
appointed. appointed.
The employee shall no longer be The employee shall no longer be
entitled to receive his benefits on entitled to receive benefits on
the day of his resignation. the day of resignation.
The complainant himself must The complainant must appear
appear before the tribunal, before the tribunal, otherwise the
otherwise the complaint may be complaint may be dismissed.
dismissed.
The Treasurer, upon his The Treasurer will be in charge
assumption, will be in charge of of the finances.
the finances.

15
 Inclusive Voices: A Gender-Fair Language GuideBook for Legislators, Legislative Staff, and the Public

6. Rewrite the sentence to avoid a construction requiring a

pronoun.

AVOID USE
A person who imports or has in A person who imports or
his possession dangerous drugs possesses dangerous drugs shall
shall be held liable. be held liable.
If an applicant has a professional An applicant who has a
license, he shall submit a verified professional license shall submit a
application. verified application.
A leader must do all that he can A leader must do everything
to gain the trust of subordinates. necessary to gain the trust of
subordinates.

7. Use an adjective or adverb instead of a pronoun to modify a

noun or a verb.

AVOID USE
A government employee shall not A government employee shall
use his office for personal gain. not use public office for personal
gain.
The Director General may be The Director General may be
issued a vehicle for his use. issued a vehicle for official use.

8. Use the passive voice to avoid using a gender-specific phrase

or clause.

AVOID USE
If an employee needs to leave If an employee needs to leave
work early, he must advise his work early, the supervisor must
supervisor a day before. be advised by the employee.
The resource person must The display name must be
change his display name before changed by the resource person
entering the Zoom meeting. before entering the Zoom
meeting.

16
 Inclusive Voices: A Gender-Fair Language GuideBook for Legislators, Legislative Staff, and the Public

Avoid using generic masculine terms that exclude women or

render them invisible. Rewrite the sentence, clause, or phrase
by using gender-neutral terms, or include female terms when
appropriate.

17
Inclusive Voices: A Gender-Fair Language GuideBook for Legislators, Legislative Staff, and the Public

Examples:

AVOID USE
Congress should craft laws Congress should craft laws
that all men will be able to that all people will be able to
understand. understand.
All congressmen have a fixed Members of the House
three-year term. of Representatives (or
Representatives) have a fixed
three-year term.
The chairman called the meeting The chairperson called the
to order. meeting to order.
Genocide is not just a crime Genocide is not just a crime
against a particular group of against a particular group of
people; it is a crime against people; it is a crime against
mankind. humanity.
The physical and mental The physical and mental
capabilities of a person are capabilities of a person are
significantly transformed upon significantly transformed upon
reaching manhood. reaching adulthood (or maturity).
No man can survive more than No one can survive more than
three days without food or water. three days without food or water.
The cameraman positioned the The camera operator positioned
equipment in order to capture the equipment in order to
the entire room. capture the entire room.
A policeman may arrest a person A police officer may arrest a
without a warrant under certain person without a warrant under
conditions. certain conditions.
Volunteer firemen undergo Volunteer firefighters undergo
intense training before being intense training before being
deployed in the field. deployed in the field.
The men of the Armed Forces The members of the Armed
all serve the country with utmost Forces all serve the country with
bravery and patriotism. utmost bravery and patriotism.

18
Inclusive Voices: A Gender-Fair Language GuideBook for Legislators, Legislative Staff, and the Public

1. Avoid using terms that give the impression that a situation

applies only to one particular sex or gender. Use alternative
gender-neutral terms instead.

19
 Inclusive Voices: A Gender-Fair Language GuideBook for Legislators, Legislative Staff, and the Public

Examples:

AVOID USE
If a soldier dies while in active If a soldier dies while in active
service, his widow and children service, the surviving spouse and
will be entitled to receive children will be entitled to receive
survivorship benefits. survivorship benefits.
The bonding activity The bonding activity
strengthened the sense of strengthened the sense of
brotherhood and camaraderie kinship and camaraderie among
among the staff. the staff.

2. In some instances, gender-based terms may be avoided by

using the gender-neutral term used in the law.

Examples:

AVOID USE
The barangay chairman oversaw The Punong Barangay oversaw
the construction of the new the construction of the new
barangay hall. barangay hall.
All housemaids and houseboys All kasambahay are entitled to
are entitled to have at least one have at least one rest day in a
rest day in a week. week.

3. Avoid perpetuating outdated gender roles and stereotypes.

Identify all people in a profession in the same way.

Examples:

AVOID USE
The male nurse was tasked to The nurse was tasked to assist
assist the doctor during the the doctor during the surgery.
surgery.
The lady lawyer was able to The lawyer was able to argue the
argue the case for the defendant. case for the defendant.

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 Inclusive Voices: A Gender-Fair Language GuideBook for Legislators, Legislative Staff, and the Public

AVOID USING FEMININE SUFFIXES

(enne, -ess, -ette, or -trix).

Avoid using feminine suffixes that make unnecessary reference to

the person’s sex. These suffixes suggest that the person referred
to is a diminutive version of the male counterpart.

Terms such as actor, ambassador, comedian, director, heir,

hero, and usher, can be used to refer to people of all genders.
Hence, there is no need to use the terms “actress,” “ambassadress,”

21
 Inclusive Voices: A Gender-Fair Language GuideBook for Legislators, Legislative Staff, and the Public

“comedienne,” “directress,” “heiress,” “heroine,” or “usherette,”

since a person’s sex is irrelevant to the functions attached to
these terms.

22
Inclusive Voices: A Gender-Fair Language GuideBook for Legislators, Legislative Staff, and the Public

In certain instances, rewording phrases or sentences to make the

language gender-fair is not recommended, such as:

1. Intentional Gender Distinction.

Do not tamper with the legislator’s intended meaning or
the application of a statute. If, for example, a legislator
wants to provide additional support for “mothers” who
are detained or incarcerated, do not change the term to
“parents.”

23
Inclusive Voices: A Gender-Fair Language GuideBook for Legislators, Legislative Staff, and the Public

2. Proper Nouns and Adjectives.

Formal names of people, places and institutions should not
be altered, such as “Correctional Institute for Women,”
“Isle of Man,” or “Girl Scouts of the Philippines.”

3. Pronouns with known antecedent or reference.

In some instances, a gender-based pronoun may be
used to refer to a particular person or individual, such
as “Resolution commending Speaker Ferdinand Martin
Romualdez for his exemplary leadership in the 19th
Congress.”

However, it is still advisable to construct similar sentences

or phrases in a way that would avoid the use of personal
pronouns that refer to a particular gender when the
gender of the subject is irrelevant.

24
Inclusive Voices: A Gender-Fair Language GuideBook for Legislators, Legislative Staff, and the Public

AVOID USE
anchorman anchor
Barangay Chairman Punong Barangay
bondsman bonding institution
businessman business owner; business executive;
entrepreneur
chairman chairperson
cleaning woman; cleaning cleaner
lady
Congressman; Representative; Member of Congress
Congresswoman

25
Inclusive Voices: A Gender-Fair Language GuideBook for Legislators, Legislative Staff, and the Public

craftsman skilled worker; artisan

draftsman drafter
enlisted man enlisted person
fatherhood; motherhood parenthood
fireman firefighter
fishermen fisherfolk
foreman supervisor
forefather ancestor
fraternal social
fraternal twins non-identical twins
gentleman’s agreement honorable agreement; unwritten
agreement
housemaid; houseboy kasambahay
landlord; landlady property owner; proprietor; lessor
layman layperson; non-professional
mailman mail courier
man person; human
manhole utility hole; sewer hole
manhood adulthood; maturity
mankind humankind; humanity
manmade artificial; synthetic
manned staffed; operated
manpower work force; personnel
mother earth earth; planet earth
mother nature nature
mother tongue native language
motherhood parenthood
patrolmen patrol; guards
policeman police officer; law enforcement
officer
repairmen repairers; repair personnel
salesman, saleslady sales representative; sales agent
spinster; old maid unmarried woman

26
Inclusive Voices: A Gender-Fair Language GuideBook for Legislators, Legislative Staff, and the Public

spokesman representative; spokesperson

sportsmanship fair play
statesman; statesmanship diplomat; diplomacy
tradesman skilled worker; merchant
vice-chairman vice-chairperson
warehouseman warehouse operator
watchman security guard; guard
working man; workman worker
young man; young woman youth; adolescent; teenager

27
 Inclusive Voices: A Gender-Fair Language GuideBook for Legislators, Legislative Staff, and the Public

REFERENCES

Aarts, B. (2011). Oxford Modern English Grammar. Oxford University Press.

Butterfield, J. (2015). Fowlers Dictionary of Modern English Usage (4th ed.).

Oxford University Press.

Caulfield, J. (2023). Third-Person Pronouns | List, Examples & explanation.

Scribbr. https://www.scribbr.com/nouns-and-pronouns/third-
person-pronouns/#:~:text=Third-person%20pronouns%20are%20
words,a%20type%20of%20personal%20pronoun

Civil Service Commission (2005), Memorandum Circular No. 12, s.

2005, “Use of Non-Sexist Language in All Official Documents,
Communications, and Issuances,” CIVIL SERVICE GUIDE: A
Compilation of Issuances on Philippine Civil Service, accessed July
27, 2023, https://www.csguide.org/items/show/538

Counsel to the Senate & Counsel to the House of Representatives. (2010).

Legislative Research and Drafting Manual (5th ed.). https://
malegislature.gov/Download/Joint/Legislative%20Drafting%20
Manual

Francis, A. (1995). Smart English: The Easy-to-Use, Instant Access Guide to

Proper Written and Spoken English. Penguin Publishing Group.

Garner, B. A. (2016). Garner’s Modern English Usage (4th ed.). Oxford

University Press.

Guide to Gender-Neutral Drafting (2019). InterLaw Diversity Forum. https://

www.interlawdiversityforum.org/guide-to-gender-neutral-drafting.

Kintanar, T. B. (1998). Gender-Fair Language: A Primer. (Fourth printing).

University Center for Women’s Studies, University of the
Philippines. https://pcieerd.dost.gov.ph/images/gad_corner/
Gender-fair-language-a-primer.pdf

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 Inclusive Voices: A Gender-Fair Language GuideBook for Legislators, Legislative Staff, and the Public

Legislative Council Division of Research (2009, July). Drafting Delaware

Legislation. http://www.legis.state.de.us/Legislature.nsf/Lookup/
BilldraftingManual?open&nav=onlinepub

Legislative Council, Maine State Legislature. (2005). Maine Legislative

Drafting Manual (5th ed.). Office of the Revisor of Statutes.

Legislative Research Council. (2021). Guide to Legislative Drafting (Revised)

[Online]. South Dakota Legislature - Legislative Research Council.
https://mylrc.sdlegislature.gov/api/Documents/127102.pdf

Magna Carta of Women, Republic Act No. 9710 (2009). https://www.

officialgazette.gov.ph/2009/08/14/republic-act-no-9710/

Office of Legislative Legal Services (2012, October 1). Colorado

Legislative Drafting Manual (Online edition). Legislative Drafting
Office. https://leg.colorado.gov/sites/default/files/drafting-
manual-20230220.pdf

Office of the Court Administrator (2022). Circular No. 55A-2022,

“Resolution dated 15 February 2022 in A.M. No. 21-11-25 SC
(Proposed Rules in the Use of Gender-Fair Language in the Judiciary
and Gender-Fair Courtroom Etiquette).” https://oca.judiciary.gov.
ph/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/OCA-Circular-No.-55-2022-A.
pdf

Philippine Commission on Women, Gender-Fair Media Guidebook, Revised

Edition (Dec. 2017). Manila: Media Gender Equality Committee
https://pubfiles.pagasa.dost.gov.ph/pagasaweb/files/gad/
MEMO_2020-11-01_Gender-Fair_Media_Guidebook_with_cover_
page_final.pdf

Philippine Commission on Women (2014), Memorandum Circular No.

2014-06, Promoting the Use of Gender-Sensitive Language in the
Drafting and Review of Legislative Measures https://pcw.gov.ph/
pcw-memorandum-circular-no-2014-06-promoting-the-use-of-
gender-sensitive-language-in-legislative-measures/

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 Inclusive Voices: A Gender-Fair Language GuideBook for Legislators, Legislative Staff, and the Public

Safe Spaces Act, Republic Act No. 11313 (2018). https://www.officialgazette.

gov.ph/downloads/2019/04apr/20190417-RA-11313-RRD.pdf

Texas Legislative Council. (2012). Texas Legislative Council Drafting

Manual.

Women in Development and Nation Building Act, Republic Act No. 7192
(1992). https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/1992/02/12/republic-act-
no-7192/

30
 Annexes

Annex A

11 September 2023

HON. JUAN DELA CRUZ

Chairman CHAIRPERSON
Committee on Youth and Sports Development
House of Representatives
Batasan Hills, Quezon City

Dear Chairman CHAIRPERSON dela Cruz,

As part of our celebration of the House of Representatives’ Month, our office is hosting an activity
entitled “Palarong Pinoy” on 05 October 2023 from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. All employees are
invited to participate in the said event. Several Congressmen, and Congresswomen HOUSE
MEMBERS are also invited to attend.
Our activity will have various local games, designed to foster camaraderie and sportsmanship
FAIR PLAY among employees of the HRep. In this regard, we respectfully invite your Honor to
deliver an inspirational message at the Opening Ceremony on October 5, 2023, 7:00 AM, at the
Main Building entrance. Your insights will inspire our male and female players on the importance
of traditional Filipino games that reflect the values and creativity of the Filipino people.
Should you or your staff have any concern, he or she WE may be contacted at 8931-5001 local
8008.
Thank you.

Very truly yours,

31
 Annexes

Annex B

Hrep MEMORANDUM ORDER

No___________

SUBJECT : ISSUANCE AND USE OF NEW IDENTIFICATION CARDS,

TEMPORARY IDS AND ACCESS PASSES

DATE : JULY 07, 2023

These guidelines are issued in the interest of efficiency and to protect all congressmen and
congresswomen HOUSE MEMBERS, officials and employees, and the public.

A. Policies

1. Identification cards including the House of Representatives (HRep) Media ID shall be signed
by the Secretary General (SG). He THE SG shall also have the authority to approve access
to the Plenary Hall, the Rear Entrance, and the Speaker’s Office and its Social Hall.

2. Everyone ALL EMPLOYEES shall be required to wear his/her THEIR identification cards
at all times while inside the premises, and on-board the shuttle buses of the HRep.

3. Accredited media personnel bearing HRep Media IDs are allowed in the designated areas in
the Plenary Hall. However, only the Media Affairs and Public Relations Service cameramen
CAMERA OPERATORS or photographers are allowed at the VIP Gallery Media side.

4. In case one loses/ forgets his/her THE identification card, he/she THE OFFICIAL OR
EMPLOYEE, OR THE MEDIA PERSONNEL, as the case may be, shall be required to
register at the guard post, and a temporary pass shall be issued to him/her to be worn for the
day while inside the premises of the HRep.

5. A Secretariat official or employee, a member of the congressional staff with plantilla item,
contractual personnel or a consultant who awaits the release of his/her THE official ID Card
may be issued an access card.

32
 Annexes

Annex B

6. Attached agency personnel, food concessionaire staff, OJTs, laborers, repairmen REPAIR
PERSONNEL, and other contractors rendering service to the HRep, including workers hired
by House Members may be issued Access Passes by the Legislative Security Bureau (LSB).

7. Visitors or guests of Congressmen and Congresswomen HOUSE MEMBERS, employees

and of other personnel assigned to the HRep may be issued Visitor’s Access Passes by the
LSB.

B. REPEALING CLAUSE

All SOPs, memoranda and other office circulars inconsistent with this Order are hereby repealed
or modified accordingly.

C. EFFECTIVITY

This Order shall take effect on July 17, 2023.

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Annex C





ZĞƉƵďůŝĐŽĨƚŚĞWŚŝůŝƉƉŝŶĞƐ
,ŽƵƐĞŽĨZĞƉƌĞƐĞŶƚĂƚŝǀĞƐ
YƵĞnjŽŶŝƚLJ͕DĞƚƌŽDĂŶŝůĂ

Nineteenth Congress
Second Regular Session

HOUSE BILL NO. ______

Introduced by Congressman REPRESENTATIVE_____

EXPLANATORY NOTE

This bill seeks to create the Department of Barangay Affairs and

Development, establish the Barangay Development Fund and appropriate funds
therefor. By doing so, it is hoped that development is felt by ordinary men
PEOPLE like farmers, fishermen FISHERFOLK, watchman SECURITY
GUARDS, salesmen SALES REPRESENTATIVES , mailman MAIL
CARRIERS, firemen FIRE FIGHTERS, working mothers WORKERS, and the
like.

Republic Act No. 7160, otherwise known as the “Local Government Code
of 1991,” was enacted to decentralize government by defining the responsibilities
and powers of the different levels of government, including provinces, cities,
municipalities, and barangays. The Local Government Code sought to strengthen
the capacity of local government units, particularly municipalities and barangays,
to participate actively in national programs and projects. The barangay, which is
the government level closest to the people, plays a significant role in the country's
economic development.

Section 384 of the Local Government Code of 1991 provides:

“SEC. 384. Role of the Barangay. – As the basic political unit, the barangay
serves as the primary planning and implementing unit of government policies,
plans, programs, projects, and activities in the community and as a forum wherein
the collective views of the people may be expressed, crystallized and considered,
and where disputes may be amicably settled.”

Bill Drafting Service

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Annex C

The late Senator Aquilino Pimentel Jr., the father PRINCIPAL AUTHOR
of the Local Government Code, explained that the powers allotted to the
barangay, however, are minimal compared to those granted to the province, city,
or municipality. Conventional wisdom in Congress at the time held that
barangays lacked both structural capacity and administrative know-how to handle
the vast powers now devolved to other local government units. As an example,
incumbent barangay treasurers are not required to have any qualifications or pass
any government examination to become such. As a result, it was decided that,
while devolving powers to the barangay was necessary, we should begin with
providing the basic manpower support services such as HUMAN RESOURCES.

Politics also considerably impact the distribution of resources and projects

at the barangay level. Given the man-sized job before him, a CONSIDERING
THE COMPLEXITY OF THE JOB, A mayor’s political priorities may lead to
the concentration of resources and development projects in certain areas while
neglecting others. Various factors, including political alliances, personal biases,
and the availability of funds, can influence this. As a result, economic
development is not cascaded to the barangays.

When politics interfere with the implementation of development programs

and projects, it can lead to delays, corruption or even complete abandonment of
some initiatives. While cascading development from a city or municipality down
to a barangay involves decentralization, the same remains a challenge in the
present, even after three decades since the Local Government Code was enacted.

Therefore, it is crucial to reexamine the functions of the barangay not only

as a political unit but also as a manager of the community’s socioeconomic
affairs. Equipping barangays with the necessary skills to manage their limited
resources effectively, generate economic gains, and provide basic local services
to their constituents is important.

This bill seeks to establish a government agency that will focus on the
development and welfare of barangays. The proposed department will be
responsible for coordinating and implementing programs and projects that will
promote barangays' economic, social, and political development. It will also
ensure that the essential services to barangay residents, such as health care,
education, and public safety, will be delivered.

The creation of this department is seen as a way to enhance the capacity of

barangays to address the needs of their constituents, particularly in rural areas
where many barangays need more resources and expertise to provide basic
services. The proposed department will also bridge the national government and
the barangays, ensuring that national policies and programs are effectively
implemented at the grassroots level.




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Annex C

This bill also outlines the organizational structure of the department, as

well as the qualifications and responsibilities of its officials. It also provides for
the funding of the department, which will be sourced from the national budget.

The creation of the Department of Barangay Affairs and Development is

seen as a positive step towards cascading development, empowering barangays
and improving the quality of life of their residents.

In view of the foregoing, the passage of this bill is earnestly sought.




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Annex C





ZĞƉƵďůŝĐŽĨƚŚĞWŚŝůŝƉƉŝŶĞƐ
,ŽƵƐĞŽĨZĞƉƌĞƐĞŶƚĂƚŝǀĞƐ
YƵĞnjŽŶŝƚLJ͕DĞƚƌŽDĂŶŝůĂ

Nineteenth Congress
Second Regular Session

HOUSE BILL NO. ______

Introduced by Congressman REPRESENTATIVE ____

_________________

ͳ AN ACT
ʹ CREATING THE DEPARTMENT OF BARANGAY AFFAIRS AND
͵ DEVELOPMENT, ESTABLISHING THE BARANGAY DEVELOPMENT
Ͷ FUND, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR
ͷ
͸ Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of the Representatives of the
͹ Philippines in Congress assembled:
ͺ
ͻ SECTION 1. Short Title. – This Act shall be known as the “Department

ͳͲ of Barangay Affairs and Development Act.”

ͳͳ SEC. 2. Declaration of Policy. – x x x

ͳʹ SEC. 3. Department of Barangay Affairs and Development. – x x x

ͳ͵ SEC. 4. Powers and Functions of the Department. – x x x

ͳͶ SEC. 5. Department Secretary; Powers and Functions. – The authority

ͳͷ and responsibility for the exercise of the mandate of the Department and for the

ͳ͸ discharge of its powers and functions shall be vested in the Secretary of the

Bill Drafting Service

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Annex C

ͳ Department, hereinafter referred to as the “Secretary(.)” WHO He shall be

ʹ appointed by the President of the Philippines.

͵ He THE SECRETARY shall exercise the following powers and

Ͷ functions:

ͷ (a) Advise the President on the promulgation of executive or

͸ administrative orders, regulations, proclamations and other issuances relative to

͹ matters under the jurisdiction of the Department;

ͺ (b) Establish the policies and standards for the operation of the

ͻ Department pursuant to his THE PRESIDENT’S guidelines; and

ͳͲ (c) Promulgate rules and regulations necessary to carry out the

ͳͳ objectives, policies and functions of the Department.

ͳʹ No man PERSON shall be appointed Secretary unless he THE

ͳ͵ APPOINTEE possesses extensive knowledge of public administration and he

ͳͶ has a minimum of seven (7) years of experience in the administration of local

ͳͷ government units.

ͳ͸ SEC. 6. Office of the Secretary. – The Office of the Secretary shall be

ͳ͹ composed of the Secretary and his immediate staff.

ͳͺ SEC. 7. Undersecretaries. – The Secretary shall be assisted by two (2)

ͳͻ Undersecretaries, who shall be appointed by the President upon the

ʹͲ recommendation of the Secretary. He THE SECRETARY is hereby authorized

ʹͳ to delineate and assign the respective functional areas of responsibility of his THE

ʹʹ Undersecretaries with respect to the mandate and objectives of the Department.

ʹ͵ Within the functional area of responsibility, he AN UNDERSECRETARY

ʹ

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Annex C

ͳ shall have the following functions:

ʹ (a) Advise and assist the Secretary in the formulation and

͵ implementation of Department policies, plans, programs and projects;

Ͷ (b) Supervise all the operational activities of the assigned units for

ͷ which he THE UNDERSECRETARY is responsible to the Secretary; and

͸ (c) Perform such other duties and responsibilities as may be assigned or

͹ delegated by the Secretary to him to promote efficiency and effectiveness in the

ͺ delivery of public services or as may be required by this Act or other laws.

ͻ One (1) of the Undersecretaries shall be the Undersecretary for Planning(.)

ͳͲ , He WHO shall have primary responsibility, in coordination with the Barangay

ͳͳ Development and Planning Service, in advancing efforts in the pursuit of

ͳʹ promoting the welfare and sustainable development of the barangays that will

ͳ͵ benefit all men .

ͳͶ The other Undersecretary shall be the Undersecretary for Barangay Affairs

ͳͷ and Operations(.) He WHO shall, in coordination with the Barangay Affairs

ͳ͸ Monitoring and Evaluation Service, assist the Secretary on matters pertaining to

ͳ͹ barangay affairs, ensure compliance and adherence of barangays on existing laws,

ͳͺ rules and regulations and directives of proper authorities, and implement the

ͳͻ Department’s policies, programs and projects that cover barangays.

ʹͲ The office of the Undersecretary for Barangay Affairs and National

ʹͳ Barangay Operations Office, including their powers and functions, under the

ʹʹ Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) are hereby transferred

ʹ͵ to the Department under the office of the Undersecretary for Barangay Affairs
͵


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Annex C

ͳ and Operations.

ʹ The Undersecretaries must possess a working knowledge of public

͵ administration and must have a minimum of five (5) years of experience in the

Ͷ administration of local government units, preferably with legal or financial

ͷ knowledge of local government programs.

͸ The Undersecretaries shall exercise the powers and functions as provided

͹ under Section 10, Chapter 2, Book IV of the Administrative Code of 1987.

ͺ SEC. 8. Assistant Secretaries. – The Secretary shall also be assisted by

ͻ five (5) Assistant Secretaries appointed by the President of the Philippines upon

ͳͲ his THE recommendation OF THE SECRETARY: one (1) for the Administrative

ͳͳ and Human Resource Management Service; one (1) for the Barangay Affairs

ͳʹ Monitoring and Evaluation Service; one (1) for the Barangay Development and

ͳ͵ Planning Service; one (1) for the Financial Management Service; and one (1) for

ͳͶ the Legal Service.

ͳͷ The Assistant Secretaries must possess a tough working knowledge of

ͳ͸ public administration and must have a minimum of three (3) years of experience

ͳ͹ in the administration of local government units.

ͳͺ The Assistant Secretaries shall perform such duties and functions as may

ͳͻ be assigned by the Secretary or provided for by law.

ʹͲ SEC. 9. Organizational Structure. – x x x

ʹͳ SEC. 10. Administrative and Human Resource Management Service. –

ʹʹ The Administrative and Human Resource Management Service of the

ʹ͵ Department is responsible for providing the Department with services relating to
Ͷ


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Annex C

ͳ human resources development, personnel, records, facilities maintenance,

ʹ medical and dental, security, and property and procurement services. For such

͵ purposes, it shall exercise the following functions:

Ͷ (a) Advise the Secretary on all matters relating to internal

ͷ administration and human resources management;

͸ (b) Prepare and implement an integrated manpower PERSONNEL plan

͹ that includes provisions on merit promotions, performance evaluation, job

ͺ rotation, suggestions and incentive awards systems, and health and welfare

ͻ services;

ͳͲ (c) Provide services related to human resources training, education, and

ͳͳ development, including manpower, WORKFORCE, career planning and

ͳʹ forecasting, and development of indigenous training materials;

ͳ͵ (d) xxx

ͳͶ (e) xxx

ͳͷ (f) xxx

ͳ͸ (g) xxx

ͳ͹ (h) xxx

ͳͺ (i) xxx

ͳͻ SEC. 11. Barangay Affairs Monitoring and Evaluation Service. – x x x

ʹͲ SEC. 12. Barangay Development and Planning Service. – x x x

ʹͳ SEC. 13. Financial Management Service. – x x x

ʹʹ SEC. 14. Legal Service. – x x x

ʹ͵ SEC. 15. Regional Office. – x x x

ͷ


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ͳ SEC. 16. Regional Director. – x x x

ʹ SEC. 17. Barangay Development Fund; Sources. – x x x

͵ SEC. 18. Barangay Development Master Plan. – x x x

Ͷ SEC. 19. Management and Administration. – x x x

ͷ SEC. 20. Annual Report. – x x x

͸ SEC. 21. Interface with Other Sector Regulators. – x x x

͹ SEC. 22. Transfer of Rights and Obligations. – x x x

ͺ SEC. 23. Separation from Service. – x x x

ͻ SEC. 24. Appropriations. – x x x

ͳͲ SEC. 25. Periodic Performance Evaluation. – x x x

ͳͳ SEC. 26. Prohibition Against Organizational Change. – x x x

ͳʹ SEC. 27. Implementing Rules and Regulations. – x x x

ͳ͵ SEC. 28. Separability Clause. – x x x

ͳͶ SEC. 29. Repealing Clause. – x x x

ͳͷ SEC. 30. Effectivity. – This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its

ͳ͸ publication in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation.

ͳ͹ Approved,

͸


42
 R
REP ESE
F
NT
HOUSE O

ATIVES

1 90 7
PH S
ILIPPINE HREP-GAD FPS

Gender and Development Technical Working Group

Gender and Development Focal Point System
House of Representatives