CAMILLE VILLAR:
CHAMPIONING PUBLIC WELFARE AND SUSTAINABLE GROWTH IN THE 18TH CONGRESS
As a staunch advocate for the welfare of Filipinos, Deputy Speaker Camille Villar made her mark in the 18th Congress through her unwavering support for a range of laws that focus on public health, consumer protection, the welfare of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), and the promotion of sustainability. As one of the leading voices in the House of Representatives, Villar’s advocacy for Filipinos’ rights and interests, both in the country and abroad, was reflected in her sponsorship and filing of various bills that have made lasting impacts on the nation.
One of the most significant pieces of legislation that Villar helped push through was the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 (RA 11479), which aimed to strengthen the government’s efforts in combating terrorism.
Recognizing the need to bolster the healthcare system, Villar spearheaded the Las Piñas General Hospital and Satellite Trauma Center Act (RA 11497), which expanded the hospital’s capacity to 500 beds to better serve the growing healthcare needs of Las Piñas City. She also championed the Inclusive Education Act (RA 11650), which instituted policies and programs for learners with disabilities, ensuring they receive a quality and inclusive education.
Furthermore, Villar’s leadership was instrumental in the enactment of Republic Act No. 11641, creating the Department of Migrant Workers, a crucial agency dedicated to supporting the country’s millions of overseas workers. This reflects her enduring commitment to improving the lives of OFWs and ensuring their safety, security, and provided with the necessary support.
On the environmental front, Villar played an active role in the passage of Republic Act No. 11898 (Extended Producer Responsibility Act), a landmark environmental law addressing the growing issue of plastic waste. This legislation mandates companies to take responsibility for the full life cycle of plastic products, encouraging waste reduction and recycling.
In addition to these landmark bills, Villar also introduced various other measures focusing on health, economic relief, and consumer protection. These included HB 5786 (Establishment of dialysis units in government hospitals), HB 6920 (Creation of the COVID-19 Unemployment Reduction Economic Stimulus Fund), and HB 7805 (Protection for consumers and merchants engaged in online transactions). Villar also filed HB 7956, a bill focused on reducing food waste by facilitating the donation and recycling of excess edible food.
Her dedication to senior citizens and other vulnerable sectors was also evident in her push for HB 10647, which seeks to grant additional benefits to Filipino centenarians and recognize octogenarians and nonagenarians.
Strengthens counter-terrorism efforts, repealing the Human Security Act of 2007
Increases the hospital’s bed capacity to 500, enhancing healthcare services.
Amends the Retail Trade Liberalization Act, allowing easier entry of foreign retail businesses into the Philippine market.
Creates a department specifically tasked with managing the welfare of OFWs.
Establishes policies for the inclusion of learners with disabilities in the educational system.
Enhances the regulation of contractors in the construction industry.
Implements a system to address plastic waste through extended producer responsibility.
Regulates the manufacture, sale, and use of vaping products to protect public health.
Villar’s contributions during the 18th Congress have undoubtedly made a positive impact on the lives of Filipinos, solidifying her as a champion of public health, consumer protection, environmental sustainability, and economic welfare. Her work, particularly in the areas of public health, the welfare of OFWs, and sustainable practices, continues to resonate with the Filipinos she has long served.
CAMILLE VILLAR: LEADING CHANGE AND EMPOWERING FILIPINOS IN THE 19TH CONGRESS
As the Philippines moves forward in its recovery and development, Deputy Speaker Camille Villar continues to be a trailblazer in championing laws that directly benefit Filipino citizens across various sectors. Throughout the 19th Congress, her efforts have aligned with her strong commitment to sustainable economic growth, social welfare, and the well-being of Filipinos, whether through groundbreaking investments in public services, education, healthcare, or energy infrastructure.
Villar’s advocacy for financial growth and stability took a monumental step with her involvement in the passage of the Maharlika Investment Fund Act (RA 11954). This law establishes the Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF), a sovereign wealth fund designed to stimulate the economy through strategic investments. The fund aims to mobilize investments for economic growth and social development, contributing to the nation’s long-term financial sustainability. Villar’s support for this initiative highlights her focus on maximizing the country’s resources and securing a prosperous future for the Filipino people.
On the social services front, Villar has also championed the Rationalization of Disability Pension for Veterans (RA 11958), which increases the monthly pension for veterans and their beneficiaries, ensuring their continued support as a recognition of their service to the nation. Similarly, her efforts have led to the Anti-Agricultural Sabotage Act (RA 12022), which targets large-scale agri-fishery smuggling, hoarding, and market manipulation. By strengthening penalties for these offenses, the law aims to protect the livelihoods of Filipino farmers and fisherfolk while ensuring the stability of food prices and availability.
Education has been another focal point of Villar’s legislative agenda. Her authorship of the No Permit, No Exam Prohibition Act (RA 11984) ensures that underprivileged students with unpaid fees are not barred from taking their exams, making quality education more accessible. Furthermore, the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act (RA 12080), which mandates the establishment of mental health services in schools, is a significant stride toward addressing the emotional and psychological needs of students, fostering a healthier, more supportive learning environment.
Villar has also contributed to shaping the country’s energy policies, such as the Philippine Natural Gas Industry Development Act (RA 12120), which lays the groundwork for the sustainable development of the country’s natural gas industry, vital for energy security and economic progress.
Apart from these notable enacted laws, Villar has filed several other bills addressing key issues, such as mental health care, youth empowerment, job security, digital economy, and protection for vulnerable sectors. For instance, her proposal for HB 06541 (13th Month Pay for Contractual Government Employees) and HB 09581 (E-books for Barangays) highlights her commitment to improving working conditions and promoting technological inclusivity for the masses. She also authored HB 10931, a measure aimed at providing support to small online businesses, recognizing the growing role of digital platforms in the Philippine economy.
Establishes the Maharlika Investment Fund to mobilize investments for economic growth and social development.
Increases the disability pension for veterans and provides additional financial support to elderly veterans.
Allows disadvantaged students with unpaid tuition to take exams in all educational institutions.
Targets large-scale agri-fishery smuggling, hoarding, and market manipulation to protect Filipino farmers.
Establishes mental health programs in schools to address the emotional and developmental needs of learners.
Provides a framework for the development of the Philippine downstream natural gas industry.
Villar’s work in the 19th Congress reflects her continued commitment to advancing social welfare, economic prosperity, and inclusivity for all Filipinos, with an emphasis on sustainable development and a focus on the future. Through her leadership, she has contributed significantly to the creation of a more robust and equitable system for the Filipino people.
