Legislative Branch of the Philippines PDF

LEGISLATIVE BRANCH OF THE PHILIPPINES Slide 1: Title Slide (SHAI) Title: The Legislative Branch of the Philippines Subtitle: Structure, Functions, and Importance SLIDE 2: INTRODUCTION ( shai ) Brief Overview of the Philippine Government The Philippine government ope...

LEGISLATIVE BRANCH OF THE PHILIPPINES Slide 1: Title Slide (SHAI) Title: The Legislative Branch of the Philippines Subtitle: Structure, Functions, and Importance SLIDE 2: INTRODUCTION ( shai ) Brief Overview of the Philippine Government The Philippine government operates as a democratic republic (Presidential System), structured into three main branches: the Executive (Carries out and enforces law) , the Legislative (Authorized to make, alter, and repeal law), and the Judiciary (Evaluates & interprets the meaning of laws, applies laws to individual cases, and decides if laws violate the Constitution.). Importance of the legislative branch The Legislative Power is vested in the Congress of the Philippines. The Congress makes up the legislative branch of the government. It is composed of the Senate, and the House of Representatives. The Congress drafts, reviews, amends, and repeals proposed laws (bills). It also has the power to amend the 1987 Constitution and is tasked with passing the national budget each year. (The definition of amend means to modify or alter something, often for the better. An example of amend is the act of making changes to the U.S. Constitution. To add to, delete, correct, revise, or otherwise alter. 1621, Robert Burton, The Anatomy of Melancholy, II.2.6.ii.) Legislation is one of the most important instruments of government in organising society and protecting citizens. It determines amongst others the rights and responsibilities of individuals and authorities to whom the legislation applies. SLIDE 3: ( shai ) Definition of the legislative branch The legislative branch is responsible for making laws and is Bicameral, consisting of the Senate ( Upper House ) and the House of Representatives (Lower House) A democratic government can take various forms, including both presidential and parliamentary systems. Presidential System In a presidential system, the president is elected separately from the legislature and serves as both the head of state and government. Examples include the United States and the Philippines. Parliamentary System In a parliamentary system, the government is formed by the majority party in the legislature, and the head of government (prime minister) is typically a member of the legislature. Examples include the United Kingdom and Canada. Bicameral system: Senate and House of Representatives The Senate is composed of 24 senators elected for a six-year term. It plays a crucial role in reviewing legislation, approving treaties, and providing checks on the executive branch. EXAMPLES OF SENATES: - Alan Peter Cayetano - Risa Hontiveros - Mark Villar - Idol Raffy Tulfo The House of Representatives has around 300 members, elected for three-year terms, and is responsible for initiating revenue bills and representing the diverse interests of the population. EXAMPLES OF HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES: House Representative Members ( 317) District Representatives (254 members) Partylist Representatives (63) - Marlyn “Len” B. Alonte ( City of Binan, Lone District ) - Loreto S. Amante ( Laguna, 3rd District ) - Jc Abalos (4ps) - Drixie Mae S. Cardema (Duterte Youth) Together, these two bodies work to create laws, represent citizens, and oversee government operations, ensuring accountability and upholding democratic principles in the Philippines. Slide 4: The Senate ( Dalaguan ) Composition - The Congress makes up the legislative branch of the government. It is composed of the Senate, also known as the upper house, and the House of Representatives known to many as the lower house. THE LEGISLATIVE BRANCH This branch includes Congress (the Senate and House of Representatives) and several agencies that provide support services to Congress. The Senate is composed of 24 Senators who are elected at large by the qualified voters of the Philippines. Length of term ( different slide ) - THE LEGISLATIVE BRANCH This branch includes Congress (the Senate and House of Representatives) and several agencies that provide support services to Congress. The Senate is composed of 24 Senators who are elected at large by the qualified voters of the Philippines. - Length of term The term of the members of the Senate is expressly provided in Articles VI and XVIII respectively of the Constitution: Sec. 4. The term of office of the Senators shall be six years and shall commence, unless otherwise provided by law, at noon on the thirtieth day of June next following their election. Key roles and responsibilities - The Legislative branch is authorized to make laws, alter, and repeal them through the power vested in the Philippine Congress. This institution is divided into the Senate and the House of Representatives. Slide 5: The House of Representatives ( lula ) The House of Representatives is the lower chamber of the Congress the big camera legislature that also includes the Senate. It plays a crucial role in the legislative process and hold significant power within the federal government. The House of Representatives consists of 435 voting members, each representing a specific congressional district within their state. The number of representatives allocated to each state is determined by its population, as measured by census. this insures proportional representation with larger states having more representatives than smaller states. however, each state is guaranteed at least one representative regardless of its population length of term - house member serve two year terms, meaning they must stand for re-election every two years this relatively short term ensures that representatives remain accountable to their constituents and response to their needs. There are no term limits for house members, allowing them to serve for as many terms as they are re-elected. Key roles and responsibilities - The House of Representatives has several key roles and responsibilities within the federal government. 1. legislation the primary function of the house is to create and pass federal loss. This process begins with the introduction of bills by individual representatives. These bills are then debated amended and voted on by the full house. If a bill passes the house it is sent to the senate for consideration for a bill to become law. It must be approved by both the house and the senate, and then signed by the president.  2. revenue bills, the house has the exclusive power to initiate all revenue bills, meaning bills that raise money for the government through taxes, or other means this power reflects the principle of power of the purse, where the body closest to the people controls the government finances 3. impeachment, the house has the sole power to impeach federal officials, including the president vice president and other civil officers. Impeachment is a formal accusation of wrongdoing, and it is a two-step process. The house must first vote to impeach an official and then the Senate conducts a trial to determine whether to remove the official from office. Slide 6: Functions of the Legislative Branch ( aguilando ) The legislative branch in the Philippines, known as the Congress, is responsible for enacting laws, representing the people, and overseeing the executive branch. It consists of two chambers: the Senate and the House of Representatives, which together form a bicameral system that ensures checks and balances within the legislative process. Lawmaking Process - The lawmaking process in the Philippines begins with the introduction of a bill by a member of either the Senate or the House of Representatives. The bill is then referred to the appropriate committee for review and amendments. Once approved by the committee, the bill is scheduled for a plenary session where members debate and vote on it. A majority vote is required for passage, and bills that are passed are then forwarded to the other chamber for further consideration and deliberation. - If both chambers approve the bill, it is then sent to the President of the Philippines for signature. The President has the power to veto the bill, but Congress can override the veto with a two-thirds vote in both chambers. If the President does not act on a proposed law submitted by Congress, it will lapse into law after 30 days of receipt. - ( veto: a constitutional right to reject a decision or proposal made by a law-making body.) Representation of the people - The Senate represents the interests of the people nationwide, with each senator elected at large. Senators serve a term of six years and may be re-elected for one additional term. The House of Representatives is composed of district representatives and party-list members, totaling 304. Representatives serve three-year terms with a possibility of unlimited re-elections. This structural difference defines the scope and nature of their legislative responsibilities and representation. Oversight of the executive branch - The legislative branch has the power to oversee the executive branch to ensure accountability and transparency in governance. This oversight function is primarily carried out through committees and inquiries in aid of legislation. - The Senate has the exclusive power to ratify treaties and confirm presidential appointments, making it a vital player in foreign relations and governance. In contrast, the House of Representatives holds the unique responsibility of initiating revenue-related bills, influencing fiscal policy directly. This separation of powers allows for checks and balances within the legislative process, ensuring a comprehensive approach to governance. Slide 7: Legislative Process ( pineda ) Steps in creating a law - Step 1: The bill is drafted Any member of Congress – either from the Senate or the House or Representatives – who has an idea for a law can draft a bill. These ideas come from the Congress members themselves or from everyday citizens and advocacy groups. The primary Congress member supporting the bill is called the "sponsor". The other members who support the bill are called "co-sponsors". Step 2: The bill is introduced Once the bill is drafted, it must be introduced. If a Representative is the sponsor, the bill is introduced in the House. If a Senator is the sponsor, the bill is introduced in the Senate. Once a bill is introduced, it can be found on Congress.gov, which is the official government website that tracks federal legislation. Step 3: The bill goes to committee As soon as a bill is introduced, it is referred to a committee. Both the House and Senate have various committees composed of groups of Congress members who are particularly interested in different topics such as health or international affairs. When a bill is in the hands of the committee, it is carefully examined and its chances of passage by the entire Congress are determined. The committee may even choose to hold hearings to better understand the implications of the bill. Hearings allow the views of the executive branch, experts, other public officials and supporters, and opponents of the legislation to be put on the record. If the committee does not act on a bill, the bill is considered to be "dead". Step 4: Subcommittee review of the bill Subcommittees are organized under committees and have further specialization on a certain topic. Often, committees refer bills to a subcommittee for study and their own hearings. The subcommittee may make changes to the bill and must vote to refer a bill back to the full committee. Step 5: Committee mark up of the bill When the hearings and subcommittee review are completed, the committee will meet to "mark up" the bill. They make changes and amendments prior to recommending the bill to the "floor". If a committee votes not to report legislation to the full chamber of Congress, the bill dies. If the committee votes in favor of the bill, it is reported to the floor. This procedure is called "ordering a bill reported". Step 6: Voting by the full chamber on the bill Once the bill reaches the floor, there is additional debate and members of the full chamber vote to approve any amendments. The bill is then passed or defeated by the members voting. Step 7: Referral of the bill to the other chamber When the House or Senate passes a bill, it is referred to the other chamber, where it usually follows the same route through committees and finally to the floor. This chamber may approve the bill as received, reject it, ignore it or change it. Congress may form a conference committee to resolve or reconcile the differences between the House and Senate versions of a bill. If the conference committee is unable to reach an agreement, the bill dies. If an agreement is reached, the committee members prepare a conference report with recommendations for the final bill. Both the House and Senate must vote to approve the conference report. Step 8: The bill goes to the president After both the House and Senate have approved a bill in identical form, the bill is sent to the President. If the President approves of the legislation, it is signed and becomes law. If the President takes no action for ten days while Congress is in session, the bill automatically becomes law. If the President opposes the bill, they may veto the bill. In addition, if no action is taken for 10 days and Congress has already adjourned, there is a "pocket veto". Step 9: Overriding a veto If the President vetoes a bill, Congress may attempt to override the veto. If both the Senate and the House pass the bill by a two-thirds majority, the President's veto is overruled, and the bill becomes a law. Slide 8: Key Terms and Concepts ( latangga ) Key Legislative Terms and Concepts in the Philippine Government: 1. Bills Definition: A bill is a proposed law presented to either the Senate or the House of Representatives for consideration. It is the primary mechanism through which laws are created in the Philippines. Explanation: Bills can be introduced by members of Congress or the President. Types of bills include general bills (which apply to the entire country) and local bills (which affect specific regions or sectors). Once a bill passes both houses of Congress and is signed by the President, it becomes law. 2. Resolutions Definition: A resolution is a formal expression of opinion, will, or intent by a legislative body. Unlike bills, resolutions do not have the force of law but are used to make decisions or statements on certain issues. Explanation: There are two main types: joint resolutions (passed by both houses and often related to budgetary issues or amendments to laws) and simple resolutions (passed by one house only, usually on internal matters). Resolutions may be used to express opinions, create committees, or authorize specific actions without creating laws. 3. Amendments Definition: An amendment is a formal change or addition proposed to a bill, law, or resolution. Explanation: Amendments can be made during the legislative process to modify bills before they are passed into law. Members of Congress can propose amendments to improve, correct, or update the content of existing laws or bills under deliberation. 4. Quorum Definition: A quorum is the minimum number of members required to be present in a legislative body to conduct official business. Explanation:  In the Philippine Congress, a quorum is generally half of the total membership plus one. For the House of Representatives, this means at least 158 members must be present (out of 316) to conduct legislative proceedings. Without a quorum, any legislative activity or voting is considered invalid. 5. Voting Procedures Definition: Voting procedures are the methods used by the Senate and the House of Representatives to decide on proposed bills, resolutions, or other legislative matters. Explanation: Types of Voting: Voice Vote: Members orally express their approval or disapproval (e.g., "aye" or "nay"). This is the simplest and quickest method. Division or Rising Vote: Members stand or raise their hands to be counted for or against a measure. Roll Call Vote: Each member’s vote is recorded individually. This is usually used for significant or controversial bills. A majority vote is typically required to pass a bill or resolution in either chamber. However, for certain matters like constitutional amendments, a higher threshold is required. Slide 9: Challenges Facing the Legislative Branch ( coyoca ) Corruption and Political Dynasties: - Misuse of power and resources can undermine public confidence in the legislative process. It can lead to favoritism, bribery, and a lack of accountability among lawmakers. - Political Dynasties: Families maintaining political power across generations can limit opportunities for new leaders and diverse representation, often prioritizing personal or family interests over public welfare. Public trust and transparency - Scandals and unethical behavior can diminish public confidence in lawmakers, making citizens skeptical of legislative decisions and intentions. - Insufficient access to information about legislative processes and decisions can hinder citizen engagement and accountability, making it difficult for the public to hold representatives accountable. Slide 10: Conclusion Summary of key points - The Philippine legislative branch plays a crucial role in shaping national policy and law. It is responsible for enacting laws, representing the people, and overseeing the executive branch. The bicameral system, with its two chambers, ensures checks and balances within the legislative process, promoting a more comprehensive and effective approach to governance. Understanding the functions of the Philippine legislature is essential for comprehending the dynamics of the country's political framework.  An effective legislative branch is crucial in democracy as it represents the people's interests, ensures checks and balances, and facilitates lawmaking. It deliberates on policies, holds the executive accountable, and addresses public concerns, ultimately fostering transparency and responsiveness in governance. By delving into these functions, we can appreciate its ultimate role in shaping a just society. - Representation: The legislative branch represents the people's views and needs, making sure their voices are heard in government. - Lawmaking: It creates laws that govern the country, helping to solve problems and improve society. - Checks and Balances: The legislative branch holds the executive branch (the President or Prime Minister) accountable, preventing misuse of power. - Oversight: It monitors government actions, ensuring that public funds are used properly and policies are implemented fairly. - Public Engagement: By discussing and debating issues, it informs and engages citizens, encouraging participation in democracy. - Slide 11: Q&A Open the floor for questions