Republic of the Philippines

Region XIII (CARAGA)

PROVINCE OF
DINAGAT ISLANDS
Municipality of San Jose
* * * * * * *
th
7 SANGGUNIANG PANLALAWIGAN
PROVINCIAL DEVELOPMENT AND GOVERNANCE TRAINING CENTER,
Purok 5, Barangay Cuarinta
___________________________________________________________
____

(PROPOSED IRP FOR ADOPTION BY THE 7TH

SP)

INTERNAL RULES
OF
PROCEDURE

1
 Republic of the Philippines
Malacañang, Manila

Office of the President

FERDINAND R. MARCOS, JR.

th
17 President of the Republic of the Philippines

A
 Republic of the Philippines
Region XIII (CARAGA)
PROVINCE OF DINAGAT ISLANDS
San Jose

Office of the House of Representatives

Lone District, Dinagat Islands

Cong. Arlene “kaka” J. Bag-ao

B
 Republic of the Philippines
Region XIII (CARAGA)
PROVINCE OF DINAGAT ISLANDS
San Jose
Office of the Provincial Governor

Hon. Nilo P. Demerey, Jr.

Provincial Governor
Dinagat Islands

4TH and 5TH GOVERNOR

DINAGAT ISLANDS

C
 Republic of the Philippines
Region XIII (CARAGA)
PROVINCE OF DINAGAT ISLANDS
San Jose
Office of the Provincial Vice-Governor

Hon. Geraldine “JADE” B. Ecleo

Provincial Vice-Governor
Dinagat Islands

D
E
 INTERNAL RULES OF PROCEDURE
of the 7th SANGGUNIANG PANLALAWIGAN,
Province of Dinagat Islands
(GBE2 000, 7TH SP Series, 00th RS)

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PRESIDENT, REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES

HON. CONG. ARLENE “KAKA” J. BAG-AO
HON. GOV. NILO P. DEMEREY, JR., MPM
HON. VICE-GOV. GERALDINE “JADE” B. ECLEO, MPA

RULE I- COMPOSITION
RULE II – POWERS, DUTIES AND FUNCTIONS OF THE SANGGUNIAN
RULES III - THE PRESIDING OFFICER
RULE IV- THE SECRETARY
RULE V- FULL DISCLOSURE OF FINANCIAL AND BUSINESS
INTEREST OF SANGGUNIAN PANLALAWIGAN MEMBERS
RULE VI – SESSIONS
RULE VII – DRESSS CODE
RULE VIII- QUORUM
RULE IX – ORDER OF BUSINESS
RULE X – LEGISLATIVE PROCESS
RULES XI – VOTES AND VOTING
RULE XII- RULES ON DEBATES AND AMENDMENTS
RULE XIII - COMMITTEES
Section 1. Creation of Committees
Section 2. Composition
Section 3. Restrictions
Section 4. Committee Hearings or Public Hearings
Section 5. Committee Meetings
Section 6. Committee Hearing distinguished from
Committee Meetings
Section 7. Quorum
Section 8. Calling a Committee Meeting
Section 9. Vacancy
Section 10. Appearance of Head of Department/Officer in Committee Meetings

Section 11. More than One Committee

Section 12. Regular (mandatory)Committees
Section 13. Special (Optional) Committees

RULES XIV – COMMITTEE REPORT

Section 1. Submission of Committee Report
Section 2. Joint Committee or Multiple Committee Report
Section 3. Contents of Committee Report
Section 4. Discharge of Committee
Section 5. Calendaring a Measure for Second Reading
Section 6. RULES GOVERNING COMMITTEE REPORTS
RULE XV – JOURNAL AND RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
Section 1. Record of Proceedings
Section 2. Minutes
Section 3. Reading and Consideration of Minutes
Section 4. Contents of Minutes
Section 5. Signing of Minutes
Section 6. Excerpts

RULE XVI – RULES ON MOTIONS

RULE XVII-FLOOR LEADER
RULES XVIII – SUSPENSION OF RULES
RULES XIX -- PAPERS AND DOCUMENTS
RULE XX – AMENDMENTS
RULE XXI - THE SANGGUNIANG PANLALAWIGAN MACE
RULE XXII - LEGISLATIVE SECURITY
RULE XXIII- USE OF ENGLISH LANGUAGE
RULE XXIV – DISCIPLINE
RULES XXV – CONDUCT UNBECOMING AND THEIR PENALTIES
i
RULES XXVI -- EFFECTIVITY

Board Members (District I)

Board Members (District II)
Board Members (Ex-O)
SP Secretariat
Acknowledgement

ii
 Republic of the Philippines
Region XIII (Caraga)
PROVINCE OF DINAGAT ISLANDS
Municipality of San Jose
********
6th SANGGUNIANG PANLALAWIGAN
Provincial Capitol, Barangay Cuarinta

EXCERPT FROM THE MINUTES OF THE ___TH REGULAR SESSION OF

THE 7th SANGGUNIANG PANLALAWIGAN HELD AT
_______________________, SAN JOSE, DINAGAT ISLANDS ON
____________________________, 2025

PRESENT:

SP MEMBERS
Composite:

HON. GERALDINE “JADE” B. ECLEO, MPA

Vice-Governor/Presiding Officer

Regular:

District 1
HON. ALI P. ADLAWAN (Senior Board Member)
HON. CARLOS P. BUA
HON. NILO MARCO M. DEMEREY
HON. ANNALYN C. DIALDE
HON. ZACARIAS N. VALES
HON. RONALD O. LUIB, JR.

District II
HON. ERROL CONRAD B. DELA CRUZ
HON. JAYPEE T. ESPARES
HON. DEBBIE B. DURANO
HON. ALEXIS B. TUGAY

Ex- OFFICIO:
HON. _____
PCL President (Interim)

HON. GRETCHEN ECLEO-ANG

Liga President

HON. SHEENA MARIE C. PEREZ

SK Pederasyon President

ABSENT:
NONE

iii
 RESOLUTION NO. GBE2 - 0000
7th SP Series (2025)

A RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE INTERNAL RULES OF

PROCEDURES OF THE 7TH SANGGUNIANG
PANLALAWIGAN OF THE PROVINCE OF DINAGAT
ISLANDS

WHEREAS, Section 50 of the Republic Act No. 7160, otherwise known

as the “Local Government Code of the 1991”, provides for the adoption of the
internal Rules of Procedure during the first regular session following the
election or within ninety (90) days thereafter;

WHEREAS, it is incumbent upon the Sangguniang Panlalawigan to

adopt its own rules of procedure, as mandated under Article V, Section 14(a)
of Republic Act No. 9355, the enabling law that created the Province of
Dinagat Islands;”

WHEREAS, the promulgation of updated rules of procedure is essential

to ensure the orderly and effective discharge of the legislative functions of
the Seventh (7th) Sangguniang Panlalawigan, thereby strengthening its role
as a dynamic and vital partner in promoting the general welfare of the
Province of Dinagat Islands and its constituents;

NOW THEREFORE, on motion of Hon. ____________ and severally

seconded, be it
RESOLVED, as it is hereby resolved to adopt as it is hereby
adopted the Internal Rules of Procedures for the 6th Sangguniang
Panlalawigan of the Province of Dinagat Islands, to wit:

RULE I

ORGANIZATION AND ELECTION / APPOINTMENT OF OFFICERS

Section 1. COMPOSITION. - The composition of the Sanggunian

shall be as provided by existing law, specifically by the very charter of
Dinagat Islands, RA 9355, Article IV, Section 12 (A) that provides: “The
Sangguniang Panlalawigan, the legislative body of the province, shall be
composed of the provincial vice-governor as presiding officer, the regular
Sangguniang Panlalawigan members, the president of the provincial
chapter of the Liga ng mga Barangay, the president of the Panlalawigan
Pederasyon ng mga Sangguniang Kabataan, the president of the Provincial
Federation of Sanggunian Members of component cities and municipalities
and the Sectorial representatives, as members.”

The Commission on Elections (COMELEC), through Resolution No.

11085-A promulgated on December 11, 2024, increased the number of
regular Sangguniang Panlalawigan members for the Province of Dinagat
Islands from four (4) to six (6) members for the first (1 st) District, and four
(4) members for the second (2nd) District, following the province’s
reclassification based on the latest income classification issued by the
Department of Finance, pursuant to the Local Government Code of 1991;

Section 2. INAUGURAL SESSION. – The inaugural session of the

Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Dinagat Islands shall be held on the ___ day
following the assumption to office of its Members, at a specific time to be
determined by the newly elected Vice Governor.

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 Section 3. ELECTION/ASSIGNMENT THROUGH A RESOLUTION
OF OFFICERS AND CHAIRMAN OF STANDING COMMITTEES. – During
the Inaugural Session or soon thereafter, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan
shall proceed with the election of the Floor Leader, Assistant Floor Leader,
Secretary, Chairman, Vice-Chairman, and Members of the different
Standing Committees by a vote of the majority of the Members present or
through the adoption of a resolution approved by a majority of all the
Members designating the Floor Leader, Assistant Floor Leader, Secretary,
Chariman, Vice-Chairman, and Members of the standing committees.

RULE II

OFFICERS: POWERS AND DUTIES

Section 1. CHAIRMAN / PRESIDING OFFICER. – The following shall

be the powers and duties of the Chairman or Presiding Officer of the
Sangguniang Panlalawigan.

a) To preside over the sessions of the Sangguniang

Panlalawigan;
b) To require proper conduct and decorum from all
members present during sessions;
c) To implement and ensure adherence to the Internal
Rules of Procedure of the Sanggunian;
d) To preserve order during sessions and issue rulings
on questions of order, subject to appeal by the
concerned member to the body for final resolution;
e) To affix his signature to all legislative documents,
official papers, and checks requiring such;
f) To declare a recess during sessions whenever
deemed necessary;
g) To adjourn the session to another date, time, or
venue in cases of extreme emergency, serious
disorder, public disturbance, or other unavoidable
circumstances;
h) To make brief clarificatory remarks or comments on
any matter under deliberation, provided he does not
express a position in favor of or against the measure;
and
i) To cast a vote solely for the purpose of breaking a
tie. He shall not vote to create a tie, and his right to
vote in the event of a tie is discretionary—not
mandatory.
j) He shall sign all warrants drawn on the Provincial
Treasury for all expenditures appropriated for the
operations of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan.
k) Subject to Civil Service Law, Rules and Regulations,
appoint all officials and employees of the
Sangguniang Panlalawigan except those whose
manner of appointment is specifically provided in the
Local Government Code.

Section 2. PRESIDING OFFICER PRO TEMPORE. - In the event of

the inability of the regular Presiding Officer to preside over a sanggunian
session, the members present thereby constituting a “quorum” shall elect

2
from among, themselves, a “Temporary Presiding Officer”, which shall have
the following powers and duties;

a) He shall certify, within ten (10) days from the date of

enactment or adoption, all ordinances and resolutions
passed by the Sanggunian during the session over
which he temporarily presided.
b) While acting as Temporary Presiding Officer, he shall
not exercise the right to vote, except in the event of a
tie, in which case he may vote solely to break the tie.
c) The Temporary Presiding Officer may, at his/her
discretion, temporarily relinquish the Chair to any
member of the Sanggunian should he/she wish to
sponsor or actively participate in the deliberation of a
proposed measure, in his/her capacity as a regular
and voting member.

Section 3. MAJORITY FLOOR LEADER. - The Majority Floor Leader

shall guide the proceedings during the session to achieve order, civility, and
decorum. The Floor Leader, in consultation with the Presiding Officer, shall
be responsible for the preparation of the Summary of Floor Actions for each
session, which shall be communicated to the Secretary to the Sangguniang
Panlalawigan.

The Floor Leader shall be elected pursuant to Section 3 of Rule 1 of

these Rules.

In cases where the Floor Leader is absent or is temporarily

incapacitated, the Presiding Officer shall appoint a Floor Leader during said
session.

Section 5. THE SECRETARY. - There shall be a secretary to the

Sanggunian who shall be a career official with the rank and salary equal to
the department head, who shall have the following qualifications:

a) No person shall be appointed to the secretary to the

Sanggunian, unless he/she is a citizen of the
Philippines,
b) a resident of local government unit concerned,
c) of good moral character,
d) a holder of college degree preferably in law,
commerce, or public administration from a recognized
college or university and
e) a first-grade civil service eligible or its equivalent;

Section 6. POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE SECRETARY. – The

following shall be the powers and duties of the Secretary:

a) attend meetings of the Sanggunian and keep a

journal of its proceedings;
b) keep the seal of the local government unit and affix
the same with his signature on all ordinances,
resolutions and other official acts of the Sanggunian
and present the same to Presiding Officer for his
signature;
c) forward to the Governor, for approval, copies of
ordinances and resolutions enacted by the
Sanggunian and duly certified by the Presiding

3
 Officer, in the manner provided in section 54 under
Book I of the Local Government Code;
d) furnish, upon request of any interested party certified
copies of record of public character in his custody,
upon payment to the treasurer of such fees as may
be prescribed by ordinances;
e) record in a book kept for the purpose, all ordinances
and resolutions enacted by the Sanggunian with the
dates of passage and publication thereof;
f) keep his office and all non-confidential records
therein open to the public during the usual business
hours; and,
g) exercise such other powers and perform such other
duties and functions as may be prescribed by the law
or ordinance relative to his position.

SECTION 7. ASSISTANT SECRETARY – The Assistant Secretary shall

perform the duties, functions, and powers in case of absence, sickness, or
incapacity of the Secretary.

In the absence or temporary incapacity of both the Secretary and

Assistant Secretary, the Presiding Officer shall designate an employee of
the Sangguniang Panlalawigan to serve as Secretary for the session.

RULE III

SESSIONS

Section 1. INAUGURAL SESSION. -.The first session of the

Sangunian upon assumption to office of its members. It is in this session
that the sanggunian shall, by resolution, adopt its Internal Rules of
Procedure and create committees.

Section 2. REGULAR SESSION. - The regular sessions of this

Sanggunian shall be once a week to be held every Tuesday at 9:00 o’clock in
the morning at the Sanggunian Session Hall. A Regular Session may be held
outside the designated place upon approval by the majority of all the members
of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan.

Section 3. SPECIAL SESSION – A special session of the

Sangguniang Panlalawigan may be held upon the call of the local chief
executive, Presiding Officer/ Vice Governor, or by majority if the members
of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan. For special sessions called upon by the
local chief executive or the Presiding Officer/Vice Governor, written notice
shall be served by mail or personal delivery to each of the Members of the
Sangguniang or left at his/her usual place of residence or office address
with some responsible person, or sent through any other possible means of
speedy communication, in whatever form, at least (24) hours before the
scheduled special session.

Unless otherwise concurred by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the

Sangguniang Members present, there being a quorum, no other matters
may be considered at a special session except those stated in the notice of
call.

It shall not be necessary to suspend neither the rule nor the session
in favor of the Local Chief Executive during the delivery of the State of the
Province Address (SOPA)(amendment introduced by Hon. Rolizareth T. Ladaga during
the 55th RS, Oct. 28, 2014.)

4
 Section 4. EXECUTIVE SESSION. - The Sangguniang Panlalawigan
may hold executive sessions. Executive sessions are sessions of the
Sanggunian which is not held in public and closed to the same with
participation and presence of select persons directly affected by the
issue(s) being considered which shall be called for the following reasons: in
the public interest or for reasons of security, decency or morality, or for
reasons affecting the dignity of the Sanggunian or any of its members, or
when confidential matters are being considered. The Order of Business
during Executive Sessions shall follow that of the Special Sessions. Two-
thirds (2/3) vote of the members of the sanggunian present constituting
quorum shall be required to hold an Executive Session.

Section 5. ADJOURNED SESSION. An “Adjourned Session” maybe

held when there is no quorum and the majority of the members present in a
session may decide to adjourn from hour to hour, or day to day and compel
the attendance of the absent members in order to obtain the necessary
quorum. An Adjourned Session or the one where quorum is not attained,
shall be numbered continuously with Regular Sessions declared in quorum.

Section 6. Sessions viz-a-viz Committee Meetings. Regular or

Special sessions shall take precedence over committee meetings and the
latter shall automatically be cancelled when they coincide or conflict in time
with any session.

Section 7. OPEN AND PUBLIC SESSIONS. – The sessions of the

Sangguniang Panlalawigan shall be open to the public except when the
Body is meeting in an Executive session or when the subject matter
deliberated by the Body involves national security, in which case only
Members of the Body and such employees of the Sangguniang
Panlalawigan as may be necessary to facilitate the performance of its
functions may be present.

Caucus of the Sangguniang Panlalalwigan shall be held at

(time) in the morning of the regular session day at the Vice-
Governor’s Conference Room,___________. It shall be the Vice-
Governor who shall call for a caucus.

Section 8. PROHIBITION AGAINST TWO SESSIONS IN A DAY. -.

No two (2) sessions, whether regular or special, maybe held in a single day.
Section 9. WHEN REGULAR SESSION FALLS ON HOLIDAY. -
When a regular session falls on a holiday, the Sanggunian upon the
instance of the Presiding Officer, may set the said regular session on any
working day prior to the next scheduled session. (From Wednesday to
Monday).
Section 10. Recess for Yuletide Season. The Sangguniang
Panlalawigan shall be on a RECESS Status starting the Third Week of
December of every year up to the First Week of January in the succeeding
year without prejudice to calling a Special Session if the need arises as
determinded by the Presiding Officer or upon the request of the Local Chief
Executive.
Section 11. CONDUCT OF ONLINE / VIRTUAL SESSION - As a
matter of policy, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan upholds the principle that
the Sessions shall be conducted through physical, face-to-face sessions, to
foster meaningful deliberation, promote transparency, and ensure active
participation of all members and stakeholders.

Physical attendance promotes collegiality, facilitates more effective

discussions, and allows for better engagement with invited resource

5
persons and the public. Virtual proceedings are discouraged due to
potential limitations in access, technical disruptions, and reduced quality of
discourse.

Section 12. LIMITED EXCEPTIONS. - Online / Virtual Sessions may

only be allowed in highly exceptional circumstances, such as:

 Public health emergencies officially declared by the Local Chief

Executive;
 Natural calamities;
 Situations rendering physical attendance impossible or
impractical;
 Urgent matters requiring immediate action and where a
quorum cannot be physically convened.

In such cases, the conduct of a virtual hearing shall be subject to prior

written approval of the Presiding Officer upon formal request of the Majority
Floor Leader, with a clear justification and compliance with relevant
guidelines.

Section 13. DOCUMENTATION OF EXCEPTIONS. - The

justification, approval, and proceedings of any virtual session must be fully
documented, and the minutes shall reflect the reasons for holding the
session virtually. Any committee report arising from such a hearing must
bear a notation stating that the hearing was held online under an approved
exception.

Section 14. PROHIBITION ON REGULAR USE. - Under no

circumstance shall virtual or online hearings be conducted as a matter of
routine practice or convenience. Repeated or habitual use of virtual
hearings without compelling justification shall be deemed a violation of this
rule and may subject the responsible committee to censure by the body.

RULE IV. DRESS CODE

Section 1. FORMAL ATTIRE. - is strictly observed by all Members
of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan in attending regular sessions.
Section 2. CASUAL ATTIRE. - may be permitted during special
sessions upon the agreement of the Members of the Sangguniang
Panlalawigan, or when sessions are held outside the Session Hall, such as in
municipalities or barangays.

RULE V – QUORUM

Section 1. QUORUM – A quorum is such number of all the Members

of the Sangguiniang Panlalawigan present in order to transact official
business as provided for by law. A majority of the entire membership of the
Sangguniang Panalalwigan, including the Presiding Officer, shall constitute
a quorum.

A quorum shall consist of fifty percent plus one (50% + 1) of all

Members of the Board, or any number greater than one-half of the entire
membership of the body.

Section 2. MAJORITY. - In determining the presence of a “quorum,”

the term “majority” shall be computed based on the actual incumbents of
the Sanggunian, excluding:

3.1. Members who are abroad or on official leave of absence;

6
 3.2. Deceased member;
3.3. Members who have resigned; and
3.4. Members who have been suspended, expelled or removed
by final judgment.
Section 3. QUESTION IN QUORUM - Whenever the question is
raised by any Member during any session of the Body, the Presiding Officer
shall immediately direct the Secretary to make a roll call of the Members of
the Sangguniang Panlalawigan present, who shall report and announce the
result thereof.

In the absence of a quorum and after a roll call has been made, the
Presiding Officer may either declare a recess until such time that a quorum
is constituted.

If there is still no quorum despite measures taken, or if there is no

prospect of constituting a quorum, no business shall be transacted during
the session.

The Presiding Officer, upon a proper motion duly approved by the

majority of the Members present, shall then declare the session is
adjourned for lack of quorum.

Section 4. LOSS OF QUORUM DURING A SESSION THAT

COMMENCED WITH A QUORUM. - During a session which was started
with a quorum and any member raises a question on the lack of quorum,
the Presiding Officer shall immediately cause the reading of the Roll of
Members and announce the result thereof and declare whether or not there
exists a quorum.

In the absence of a quorum, the Presiding Officer may declare a

recess of not more than (1) hour and wait for other members to come, or a
majority of the members present may move to adjourn from hour to hour,
or “day to day” and may compel the immediate attendance of any member
absent without justifiable cause by designating a member of the
Sanggunian, to invite back the absent member and bring him at the session
hall.

If there is still no quorum despite the enforcement of the above

remedial measures, the Presiding Officer may, motu proprio or upon proper
motion from the floor duly adopted by the body, declare the session
adjourned for lack of quorum.

RULE VI. ORDER OF BUSINESS AGENDA

Section 1. ORDER OF BUSINESS. – After the session is called to

order by the Presiding Officer, the Order and Calendar of Business of the
Sangguniang Panlalawigan, which if necessary, may be subject to change
by the secretariat in consultation with the Committee Chair on Rules:

A) For Inaugural Session

Part I. Welcome Rite - Formal Entrance
Part II. Session Proper

7
I. Call to Order
II. PRELIMINARIES
a) Invocation
b) Singing of Pambansang Awit
c) Recitation of PBMLP Creed

III. Roll Call/Quorum Declaration

IV. Provincial Governor’s Time [Per RA 9355, Section 10
(B) (1) (c)]
(Present the program of government and propose
policies and projects for the consideration of the
Sangguniang Panlalawigan at the opening of the
regular session of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan
every calendar year and as often as may be deemed
necessary as the general welfare of the inhabitants
and the needs of the provincial government may
require.)
(Note: The governor’s presentation may contain
subjects that need outright resolution/s. Any member
may move for the inclusions of the same in the Order
of Business particularly in First Reading.)
V. Approval of the Agenda
VI. Communications Requiring Attention from the SP
(Letters, Reso from other legislative bodies for support,
Financial Statements (FS), Others)
(Note: There are 3 actions to be taken here: 1. Refer to
Committee for study; 2. Task the Secretary to write a
reply; or 3. Propose an Ordinance or resolution as the
case maybe to be calendared in the succeeding
sessions.)
VII. CALENDAR OF BUSINESS
A) FIRST READING (Reading of the Title and
Referral to the Committees)
A.1. Proposed Provincial Ordinances
A.2. Proposed Provincial Resolutions
A.3. Municipal Ordinances and Resolution for
Review and Approval (MORA and MuRRA)
(Be referred always to committees)
B) SECOND READING (BUSINESS FOR THE DAY)
B.1. Proposed Provincial Ordinances
 Reported Out by the Committees
 Moved as Urgent (If any)
B.2. Proposed Provincial Resolutions
a. NON-CONTROVERSIAL MATTERS
(Commendations, Recognitions,
Appreciations, other similar import)
 Moved as urgent
b. CONTROVERSIAL MATTERS
(Authorizations of LCE to enter contracts,
confirmations of department heads’
appointments, disciplining members, others
of similar nature)

8
 b.1. Measures Mandated by Law (RA
9355, Art. V, Sec. 14)
b.1.1 Internal Rules of Procedures
(IRP)
(SPR 25-0001) ADOPTING THE
INTERNAL RULES OF PROCEDURES
OF THE 7TH SANGGUNIANG
PANLALAWIGAN OF THE PROVINCE
OF DINAGAT ISLANDS. (RA 9355,
Art. V, Sec. 14)
Proponent:
 Creation of Standing
Committees
o CREATING THE 25 STANDING
COMMITTEES OF THE 7TH SP
OF THE PROVINCE OF
DINAGAT ISLANDS.
Sponsor:
 Election of Chairperson,
Vice-Chairpersons, and
Members of the Committees
o APPROVING THE
COMPOSITION OF THE 25
STANDING COMMITTEES OF
THE 7TH SP OF THE PROVINCE
OF DINAGAT ISLANDS.
Sponsor:
b.1.2. Fixing the day, time and place
of regular sessions of the
Sangguniang Panlalawigan of
Dinagat Islands
(SPR 25-0002) MANDATING THAT
THE 7TH SANGGUNIANG
PANLALAWIGAN SHALL HAVE A
REGULAR SESSION EVERY
TUESDAY, AT 9:00 IN THE
MORNING AT THE PRESENT
SESSION HALL. (RA 9355, Art. V,
Sec. 16)
Sponsor:
b.2. Measures Reported out by Committees, or
moved as Urgent
NONE
b.3. Municipal Ordinances/Resolutions for
Review and Approval (MORA and MuRRA)
 Reported Out by the Committees
NONE
C) THIRD READING
C.1. Ordinances Approved on 2nd Reading
1) Approved in the Preceding Session
2) Moved as urgent (if any)
C.2. Resolutions Approved on 2nd Reading
1) Required for 3rd Reading
2) Moved as urgent (if any)
VII. Announcement/Reminders

9
 A. Chair & SP Members
B. SP Secretary
VIII. Adjournment
IX. Closing
Part III. New SP Inaugural Program
1) Opening Remarks
2) New SP’s Familiarization to SP Sec. Personnel and Staff
3) Intermission (Vocal Solo)
4) Insights of the 6th SP
5) Inaugural Speeches
6) Closing Statements
Part IV. SP Celebration Dinner
1) Hooray/Mabuhay Chants for the Provincial Officials and
the new SP
2) Prayer for the Meal
3) Dinner (Lunch) Time
Part V. Pictorial Time
(Note: For the Inaugural Rites please see the separate Program.)
******
B) For Special Session
I. Call to Order
II. PRELIMINARIES
a) Invocation
b) Singing of
b.1. Pambansang Awit
b.2. PBMLP Hymn
c) Recitation of PBMLP Creed
III. Roll Call
IV. Approval of the Agenda
V. Business for the Day
VI. Other Matters (Information/Announcement)
a) Chair and/or SP Individual Announcement/info
VII. Adjournment
VIII. Closing Prayer
C) For Regular Session
I. Mounting of the Mace and intro to the Presiding Officer – SP
Sitting Secretary
II. Call to Order
III. PRELIMINARIES
a) Invocation
b) Singing of Pambansang Awit
a) Recitation of PBMLP Creed

III. Roll Call

IV. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
V. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF THE PREVIOUS SESSION
VI. PRIVILEGE HOUR
VII. QUESTION HOUR
VIII. VISITOR/S’ TIME
IX. COMMITTEE REPORTS
X. COMMUNICATIONS REQUIRING ATTENTION FROM THE SP (Letters,
Reso from other legislative bodies for support, Financial Statements
(FS), Others)
XI. CALENDAR OF BUSINESS

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 A) FIRST READING (Referral to Committees)
A.1. Proposed Provincial Ordinances
A.2. Proposed Provincial Resolutions
a. Non-Debatable Measures (Commendations,
Recognitions, Appreciations, other similar import
that maybe moved as urgent)
b. Debatable Measures (Authorizations of LCE
to enter contracts, confirmations of
department heads’ appointments,
disciplining members, others of similar
nature that are generally be referred to
committees except urgency is proven)
A.3. Municipal Ordinances and Resolution for
Review and Approval (MORA and MuRRA)
(Be referred always to committees)
B) SECOND READING (BUSINESS FOR THE DAY)
B.1. Proposed Provincial Ordinances
 Reported Out by the Committees
 Moved as Urgent (If any)
B.2. Proposed Provincial Resolutions
a. Non-Debatable Resolutions (Commendations,
Recognitions, Appreciations, other similar import)
 Moved as urgent
b. Debatable Resolutions (Authorizations of LCE
to enter contracts, confirmations of department
heads’ appointments, disciplining members,
others of similar nature)
b.1. Measures Mandated by Law (Certified
urgent by LCE)
b.2. Measures Reported out by
Committees
b.3. Measures Voted as urgent by 2/3
Votes (deadline urgency)
b.4. Municipal Ordinances/Resolutions for
Review and Approval (MORA and
MuRRA)
 Reported Out by the Committees
C) THIRD READING
C.1. Ordinances Approved on 2nd Reading
a. Approved in the Preceding Session
b. Moved as urgent (if any)
C.2. Resolutions Approved on 2nd Reading
a. As required for 3rd Reading
b. Moved as urgent (as the case maybe)

XII. Reminders/Announcement
A. Chair & SP Individual Announcement (non-legislative
matters)
B. SP Secretary’s Concerns

Section 2. THE INCLUSION OF THE QUESTION HOUR,

PRIVILEGE HOUR, AND VISITOR/S’ TIME IN THE ORDER OF
BUSINESS.

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 2.1.Question Hour will give flesh to the policy of public disclosure and
transparency. Suffice it to state that QUESTION HOUR serves as a vehicle
for people to know matters of public concern and interest. It is when a
department heads, chiefs of offices, or any other individuals who can shed
light to issues or concerns in the interest of the province and in aid of
legislation, by a majority vote, be invited by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan
to appear before the body or a committee and to answer questions raised,
relevant to issues and concerns at hand, on all matters pertaining to their
departments or office.
2.1.1. The Question Hour shall not exceed 45 minutes.
2.2. Privilege Hour is when any member maybe allowed to deliver a
speech on matters of personal or collective privilege or on matters within his
or her committee’s competence; provided, that the speech shall not exceed
20 minutes; provided further, that the speaker, following his speech shall
yield to interpellation, if any, by the other members; provided finally that the
interpellation shall not exceed 30 minutes.
2.3. Visitors’ Time is when the Sanggunian is entitled to invite a person
or persons (natural or juridical) for questioning in aid of legislations or a
privilege given to visitors of the province from the National Line Agencies
(NLAs), Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), Private Sectors (PS) and/or
Private Companies and individuals with concerns or are having official
transactions with the province and/or to render courtesy calls to the
Provincial Board.
2.3.1. No Proxy. Official Representatives of the duly invited guests to
attend sessions in aid of legislation, shall not be allowed in the sessions
to save time of the Sanggunian as they cannot answer the questions for
a certain subject matter affecting the interest of the people in the
province. (Amendment introduced by BM Errol Conrad B. dela Cruz, 51RS dated August
11, 2020)
2.3.2. Time Limit. Each visitor shall be given a maximum of five (5)
minutes to speak but not to exceed 30 minutes.

Section 3. THE CALENDAR OF BUSINESS. The Calendar of Business shall

contain brief description of the item of business to be taken up during the
regular session including, but not limited to the following:
4.1. The title of the proposed ordinance or resolution; name of the
authors or sponsors and the committee of which it was
referred or the committee sponsoring it;
4.2. In the case of petitions, letters, endorsements and other
communications, the source or the name of senders.
Section 4. CONTENTS, CALENDAR OF BUSINESS.
3.1. Unfinished Business – refers to proposals or measures that
have been left un-acted upon, postponed or left unfinished during the
previous meeting or session. This includes also measures (e. g. Ordinance/
resolution) left unfinished or not acted upon at the end of the term of
the previous administration.
3.2. Business for the Day refers to a list of items that have been
reported out by committees and are ready for deliberation on “Second
Reading” as determined by Committee on Rules. Items not calendared but
were included and moved as urgent by the majority votes of those who
are present constituting a quorum are also discussed here. Finally, items
for the body’s decision on third and final reading must also be taken here.
3.3. Unassigned Business – refers to pending matters or measures
including new ones arising out during the deliberation but not yet
assigned or referred to any committee for appropriate action.

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 3.4. Submission of Items for Calendar. The items to be
calendared in a session shall be submitted on or before every Monday (till
11:00 a.m. only).

Section 5. OPPOSING COMMITTEE REPORTS, RULE. As a general rule,

no member of the committee shall oppose or object to the report of his
committee unless he submits his dissenting opinion to the majority decision
in writing in open session before the said committee renders its reports.
Otherwise, he shall be precluded to oppose it on the floor.

Section 6. RULE ON DEVIATION FROM OB. Deviation from the

prescribed Order of Business maybe done only under the following
circumstances:

6.1. When the Sanggunian decided to suspend the rules through an

“assumed motion” by the Chair or through a motion to suspend
the rules by a member. In any case, the decision to suspend the
rules shall require a vote by general consent, a unanimous vote,
or at least a two-third (2/3) vote of the members present.
6.2. When the measure to be acted upon by the Sanggunian is
“certified as urgent” (by the LCE), it shall have the priority over all
items of business, and shall be considered without need of
suspending the rules even if it is not included in the calendar of
business.
6.3 Upon receipt by the Provincial Secretary, the Municipal budgets
submitted for consideration to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan,
shall be referred at once to the Committee on Finance, Budget
and Appropriations who shall examine its contents and provisions
and if found legal and in order, it shall calendar it and certify it as
urgent for approval during the regular session of the Sangguniang
Panlalawigan.
The idea is to do away with the old procedure and prevent
unnecessary delay in the approval of the budget if found without
any defect.

Section 7. AGENDA, MATTERS THEREIN. – Only items and matters

listed in the Agenda shall be taken up and discussed in the session of the
Sangguniang Panlalawiganl The nature and substance of such matters must
be described with sufficient clarity in the Agenda. If the main sponsor of an
item included in the Agenda is absent, a fellow member may co-sponsor the
same for it to be taken up for consideration by the Body in the present
business.

If the Chairman is absent, the Vice-Chairman shall automatically, or in

his absence, any member thereof, be the co-sponsor of the committee
report. Requests for co-sponsorship must be done before the start of the
session.

Section 8. AGENDA AMENDMENT, INCLUSION. No inclusion shall be

allowed except in extremely important cases e.g., where a deadline is to be
met as required by the nature of a particular measure. Inclusion needs the
2/3 votes of all the SP Members present, there being a quorum.

Section 9. LATE INCLUSION PROCEDURE (Inclusions introduced in the latter

part of the session).

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 a. No late inclusion shall be entertained upon by the chair unless
suspension of Rule IX (Order of business) shall be raised and voted
by 2/3 vote of all the present Sanggunian Members.
b. The proponent then, shall immediately proceed to justify the
necessity of the measure that is being moved for inclusion. (No
other motion shall be entertained here except privilege
motions.)
The Motion for Inclusion shall be submitted by the chair for approval
with a majority vote of the sanggunian members who are present there
being a quorum.

RULE VII – LEGISLATIVE PROCESS

Section 1. LEGISLATIVE PROCEDURE. In the enactment of

ordinances and adoption/approval of resolutions, the following steps shall
be observed:

1) Any member of the Sanggunian may submit his or her proposed

ordinance/s or resolution/s (at least in 6 copies) to the Office of the
Secretary to the Sanggunian (care of Receiving Desk) on or before
every Friday at 4:00 o’clock in the afternoon.
[Important: the measure/s submitted for calendar shall have a transmittal sheet and a
complete body (whereas clauses) of the same bearing the signature of the Author/s or
Sponsor/s thereof.]
2) The Secretary to the SP Office calendars the submitted measures for
First Reading in the Calendar of Business for the upcoming session.

3) During the session, the Presiding Officer may refer the proposed
measures to appropriate committee/s for further study.
4) The Chair of the committee where the measure is referred into shall
call a Committee Meeting and/or Hearing to deliberate on the
measures and at the same time, allow the stakeholders of the said
measure, participate in the discussion prior to its approval.
[Important: Minutes of the Meetings/Hearings of the Committee shall be had. A
Meeting/hearing without a minute duly signed by the majority of the members
present, there being a quorum shall not be considered in the calendaring of Business
for the plenary.]
5) The Chairperson of a Committee shall cause to calendar a Committee
Report for a session and to report the same observing the proper
protocol as is hereby emphasized i.e., there should be a minute duly
signed by a majority of the members present in the committee
meeting/hearing.
6) In the absence of the Chairperson, the Vice-Chairperson or any
member thereof may give the report to the plenary.
7) After the report, the reporting Chairman will then move for the
adoption of the said Committee Report.
8) The Presiding Officer may then say: “The Committee Report No. ___ of
the Committee of Health is hereby adopted.”(Gavel)
9) The Contents-measures of the Committee Reports favorably endorsed
for approval by the Committee shall then be calendared for Second
(2nd) Reading in the next succeeding session as approved by the
Committee on Rules unless moved as urgent as the case maybe,
provided that the urgency of the said measure is duly justified by the
author.

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 10) Then in the next succeeding session, those measures in the second
reading shall then be discussed or deliberated.
11) For Resolution, once it is approved in second reading, it shall
automatically be assigned with Resolution Number and is considered
finally approved except if, the body, chooses the said resolution to be
calendared and be approved on the Third Reading.
12) For Ordinance, after it is being approved in the 2 nd Reading, it is
automatically be calendared in the 3 rd and Final Reading for the next
succeeding session.

13) In the next session, the measure calendared for (3 rd) Reading is read
by the SP Secretary with Ordinance Number, Title, and its author after
which the Presiding Officer may then subject the said Ordinance for
Voting.
14) Once the voting requirement of that certain ordinance is met, the
said Ordinance is already finally approved for all intents and
purposes in the Sanggunian Level.
Section 2. RULES IN THE ENACTMENT OF ORDINANCES AND
ADOPTION OF RESOLUTIONS. In the enactment of ordinances and
adoption of resolutions including other matters requiring legislative actions,
the following rules shall be observed:
2.1 Legislative actions of a general and permanent character shall be
enacted in the form of an ordinance, while those matters relating
to proprietary functions, private, and temporary in character and
passed in the form of a concern shall be acted upon by resolutions.
2.2 Proposed ordinances and resolutions shall be in writing and shall
contain an assigned number, a title or caption, a resolving or
ordaining clause, and the date of its proposed ordinance shall be
accompanied by a brief explanatory note containing the
justification for its approval. It shall be signed by the author or
authors and be submitted to the Secretary to the Sanggunian to be
calendared at its next meeting.
2.3 A resolution shall be enacted in the same manner prescribed for
an Ordinance, except that it needs not go through a third reading
for its final consideration unless decided otherwise by a majority
of all the Sanggunian members.
2.4 No ordinance or resolution shall be considered on second reading
in any regular meeting unless it has been reported out by the
proper committee to which it was referred, approved as urgent
by the majority of the SP Members present there being a
quorum, or certified as urgent by the local chief executive.
2.5 The Secretary to the Sanggunian shall prepare copies of the
proposed ordinance or resolutions in the form it was passed on
second reading, and shall distribute to each Sanggunian member
a copy thereof except that a measure certified by the local chief
executive considered as urgent may be submitted for final
debate or amendment during the second reading.
2.6 No ordinance or resolution passed by the Sanggunian in a regular
or special session duly called for the purpose shall be valid
unless approved by a majority of the members present, there
being a quorum.
2.7 The SP Members shall sign the approved ordinances and/or
resolutions and other legislative documents that need their
signatures (e.g. journal of proceedings and/or minutes…) every
after the sessions or if time won’t allow it, in the afternoon of

15
 session days. In extreme cases SP members may be made to sign
at their home if need arises.
2.8 Upon the passage of all ordinances and resolutions directing the
payment of money or creating a liability, and at the request of any
member of any resolution or motion, the Sanggunian shall use
nominal voting and record the ayes and nays. Each approved
ordinance or resolution shall be marked with the seal of the
Sanggunian and be recorded in a book for the purpose.
2.9. When a certain code/ordinance is revised to adapt the recent
trends, the author/s of the original or previous measure thereof
shall not be replaced but be added only with the author of the
recently approved code or ordinance. (author-all amendment, 63rd RS,
Nov. 28, 2023)

Section 3. APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE AND VETO POWER OF THE

LOCAL CHIEF EXECUTIVE. The approval of ordinance by the Governor, as
the case may be, and the exercise of his/her veto power shall be governed by
the following rules:

3.1. Every ordinance enacted by the Sanggunian shall be presented to

the Governor for his/her approval. If he/she approves the same,
he/she shall affix his/her signatures on each and every page thereof,
otherwise, he/she shall veto it and return the same with his
objections to the Sanggunian, which may proceed to reconsider the
same. The Sanggunian may override the said veto by making the
ordinance or resolution effective for all legal intents and purposes.
3.2. The veto shall be communicated by the Governor to the Sanggunian
with fifteen (15) days, otherwise, the ordinance shall be deemed
approved as if he/she had signed it.
3.3. The Governor may veto any ordinance of the Sanggunian on the
ground that it is “ultra vires” or prejudicial to the public welfare,
stating his reason therefore in writing.
3.4 The Governor shall have the power to veto any particular item or
items of an appropriation ordinance, an ordinance or resolution
adopting a local development plan and public investment program or
an ordinance directing the payment of money or creating liability. In
such a case, the veto shall not affect the item or items which are not
objected to. The vetoed item or items shall not take effect unless the
Sanggunian overrides the veto in the manner as provided in this
section, otherwise, the item or items in the appropriation ordinance
of the previous year corresponding to those vetoed, if any shall be
deemed re-enacted.

Section 4. THREE-READING PRINCIPLE. The so-called “three-reading

principle” which is commonly adopted in legislative bodies shall also be
followed by this Sanggunian. Hence, as a general rule, before an ordinance
is finally enacted, it shall undergo the following stages:

4.1 First Reading - at this stage the Secretary shall read the
number of the proposed draft ordinance (e.g. Draft Ordinance No.
07-01); its title, names of the members introducing it. Thereafter,
the Presiding Officer shall refer it to the appropriate committee or
committees with or without instructions. At this stage no debate
shall be allowed.
4.2 Second Reading.
Any proposed measure (ordinance/resolution) that has
already been reported out by a concerned committee shall be
calendared for “second reading”.

16
 If every member of the Sanggunian is furnished already a
copy thereof, the proposed ordinance may no longer be read in
full unless the sponsoring committee or the Sanggunian itself
decided otherwise.
Measures approved as urgent in the First Reading are also
taken here.
For discussion or deliberation purposes, a proposed measure
may be subjected to the following:
a. Sponsorship Speech
b. Processing Periods
1. Interpellation
2. Period of Debate
3. Period of Amendment
c. Approval on “ Second Reading”.
d.
4.3. Third (Final) Reading - at this stage the Secretary, shall read
the proposed draft ordinance by its number, title and the name of
its sponsor or co-sponsor, if any. Immediately thereafter, the
Presiding Officer shall put the ordinance to a vote, then formally
announce the result thereof and directs the Secretary to enter it in
the record.
Section 5. Methods of Voting. Voting shall be either one of the
following methods;
5.1. By a Consent Vote (Is there any objection? Hearing none...etc.)
5.2. By voice (viva-voce – Aye (Yes) or Nay (No);
5.3. By raising of hand(a.k.a showing of hand);
5.4. By rising (standing up);
5.5. By Secret Balloting; or (TO REVIEW WHEN APPLICABLE)
5.6. By nominal voting (a.k.a roll call vote).
Section 6. Putting the Question to a vote. The Presiding Officer shall
rise whenever he is putting question to a vote. In taking the vote, the
Presiding Officer shall take first the affirmative votes and then the negative
votes. While still in standing position the Presiding Officer shall announce
the result thereof.
RULE VIII – VOTES AND VOTING

Section 1. VOTING ON THE QUESTION. Whenever a nominal

voting (or roll call voting) is being applied, the Secretary shall call the roll of
members. As such name is called, the members shall announce his vote by
stating “YES” or NO”, as the case may be. As a general rule, a member may
explain his vote but not to exceed three (3) minutes.
A second roll call may be requested by any member from the Chair
but this time only the names of those who failed to vote shall be called. This
is to give another opportunity to those who failed to cast their vote to
exercise their right and also to determine the numbers who have violated
the “rule of abstention”. After this second roll call other request of the same
kind shall not be entertained by the Chair.

Section 2. VOTING RESTRICTIONS. No member can vote, or be

allowed to vote, on any measure in which he/she or any of his/her relatives
within the third degree of consanguinity or affinity, has a direct or personal
pecuniary interest. This rule, however, does not apply in voting for elective
positions in the Sanggunian where a member, as a matter of right, can vote
for himself/herself.

Section 3. CHANGE OF VOTE. A member may change his vote but

only when the result of the voting has not yet been announced by the

17
Chair. Otherwise, he can only change his vote by a unanimous consent of
the members present. Provided that this rule shall not be applied if voting is
by ballot.

Section 4. VOTE BY A LATE-COMER. A member who comes-in late

during the session but who happens to arrive while voting is in progress
shall be allowed to vote, provided that the result of the voting has not yet
been announced by the Chair. Otherwise he can only be allowed to cast his
vote by a unanimous consent of the members present. Provided that this
rule shall not apply if voting is by ballot.

Section 5. ALLOWABLE MOTION DURING VOTING. Except for a

motion pertaining to a question of quorum, no other motion shall be
entertained by the Chair while voting is in progress.

Section 6. TIE VOTE. A tie vote resulting from a vote taken on any
motion, measure or proposal shall be construed to mean that the particular
motion, measure or proposal is defeated, unless the Chair decided to break
it. Exception to this rule is when a “motion to appeal from the decision of
the Chair “ is put to a vote and it resulted in a tie. In this case the tie vote is
considered to sustain the decision of the Chair.
Section 7. BREAKING TIE. - In case of a tie, the Presiding Officer
Sanggunian shall be allowed to cast his/her vote in order to break the tie.
He/She is however, precluded under existing laws to cast his/her vote in
order to create a tie.
Section 8. MAJORITY VOTE OF ALL MEMBERS PRESENT. - As
provided for under R.A. 7160 and its implementing rules and regulations, “a
majority vote of all the members of the Sanggunian” is required in the
following circumstances:
8.1. Enactment of ordinances, levying taxes, fees, and charges
prescribing the rates thereof for general and specific purposes and
granting tax exemptions, incentives or reliefs. (paragraph 2-ii, Sec. 468,
RA 7160)

8.2. Authorizing the provincial governor to negotiate and contract loans

and other form of in indebtedness. (paragraph 2-iii, Sec. 468, RA 7160)
8.3. Enactment of ordinances authorizing the floating of bonds or other
instruments of indebtedness for the purpose of raising funds to
finance development projects. (paragraph 2-iv, Sec. 468, RA 7160)
8.4. Authorizing the provincial governor to lease to private parties such
buildings held in a proprietary capacity, subject to existing laws, rules
and regulations. (paragraph 2-v, Sec. 468, RA 7160)
8.5. Unless otherwise provided herein, head of departments and offices
shall be appointed by the governor with the concurrence of the
majority of all the SP Members subject to Civil Service law, rules and
regulations. The Sangguniang Panlalawigan shall act on the
appointment within 15 days from the date of its submission otherwise
the same shall be deemed confirmed. (paragraph (d), Sec. 463, RA 7160)

Section 9. MAJORITY OF THE MEMBERS PRESENT. (thereby

constituting a Quorum). Except as provided in Section 8 hereof, all other
legislative matters or measures shall require only a “majority vote of the
members present therein having a quorum” for its passage, adoption or
enactment, as the case may be.

Section 10. PLURALITY VOTE. -. A decision of the Sanggunian

through a “Plurality Vote” shall be valid only and enforceable if it is the
result of an election of officers of the Sanggunian or members of

18
committees. No legislative proposal or measure of whatever nature shall be
passed, adopted or enacted by this Sanggunian through a mere plurality
vote.

Section 11. PERCENTAGE VOTE. - For purposes of this section, a

percentage vote shall be construed to mean as a “proportion of certain
whole”. Percentage vote shall be applied in the following:
11.1. A two-thirds (2/3) vote of all the members of this Sanggunian
shall be required in overriding the veto of the Local Chief Executive
for any ordinance or resolution, thereby making the particular
ordinance or resolution effective for all intents and purposes. (Sec.
54, 54 RA 7160)

11.2. Unless otherwise concurred in by two-thirds (2/3) vote of the

Sanggunian members present, there being a quorum, no other
matters may be considered at a special session except those stated
in the notice. (Sec. 52 (d), RA 7160)
11.3. The penalty of suspension or expulsion that may be imposed or
meted out by the Sanggunian to an erring member “shall require
the concurrence of at least two-thirds (2/3) vote of all the
Sanggunian members.” (Sec. 50, b-5, RA 7160).
11.4. At least a two-thirds (2/3) affirmative vote of the members
present, there being a quorum, shall be required for the adoption of
the following motions:
a. Motion to suspend the rules;
b. Motion to expunge;
c. Motion to extend or limit the debate; and
d. Motion to call for the previous question.
11.5. A two-thirds (2/3) vote of the members present, there being a
quorum, shall be required in order to sustain the “motion to object
to the consideration of a question.”

Section 12. SIMPLE MAJORITY. Except as otherwise provided in

this Internal Rules of Procedures and existing laws, rules and regulations, a
vote by a “simple majority” shall prevail on other measures, motions or
propositions provided there is a quorum.
In parliamentary parlance, the term “simple majority” means one-half
plus one (1/2+1) of the total votes cast by the members present there
being a quorum. It might be less than the majority of the entire
membership.

RULE IX– RULES ON DISCUSSION, GENERAL DEBATE

Section 1. OBTAINING THE FLOOR. As a general rule, no member

shall speak before the Sanggunian without first “obtaining the floor.” A
member who has obtained the floor shall address all his remarks to the
Chair. He shall conduct himself with proper decorum by confining his
remarks or arguments to the question under debate and by avoiding
personalities.
Section 2. THIRTY-MINUTE RULE. - No member rendering a
committee report or delivering the sponsorship speech shall speak for more
than thirty (30) minutes unless allowed by a majority of the members
present.
Section 3. TWENTY-MINUTE RULE. - No member shall speak for
more than twenty (20) minutes on a particular issue or question being
debated upon unless he is allowed to do so by a majority of the members
present.

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 Section 4. FIVE-MINUTE RULE. - During the period of
amendments, every member shall observe the so-called “five-minute rule”.
i.e., remarks or argumentation by any member on each proposed
amendment shall not exceed five (5) minutes.

Section 5. OPTIONS TO SPEAKER. The member rendering a

committee report or delivering the sponsorship speech of a proposed
measure may move to open or close the debate within the thirty-minute
period allowed to him. If he fails to exercise his option, the Chair may use
the “assumed motion” and the proposed measure shall be considered open
to debate.

Section 6. DEBATING OWN MOTION. No member shall speak

against his own motion or proposition. He may, however, be permitted to
withdraw his motion or proposition and if his request to withdraw is denied, he
may vote against it.

Section 7. CLOSING A DEBATE. A motion to close the debate is in

Order if three (3) members have already spoken in the affirmative side and
two (2) in the negative side, or, one (1) member has spoken in favor but none
against it.

Section 8. ASSUMED MOTION BY THE CHAIR FOR DEBATE

CLOSURE. - Subject to the requirement of the preceding section, if no
member moves to close the period of debate, the Chair, motu proprio, may
use the “assumed motion” in order to close the period of debate.

Section 9. VOTE NEEDED FOR. MOTION CALLING THE PREVIOUS

QUESTION. - When a motion “to call for the previous question” is proposed
by a member who would result in the closing of debate on a pending question,
a two-thirds affirmative vote shall be required.

Section 10. PERIOD OF AMENDMENT. - After the period of debate

has been closed, the period of amendments shall immediately follow.
a. Amendments to any proposed measure, or parts thereof, shall be in
writing or in oral presentation.
b. A serialized method maybe used wherein the proposed measure is read
by paragraph or section by section and after one is read, amendments
can be proposed and debated upon.
c. A vote is taken then on the proposed amendment.

Section 11. PERIOD OF AMENDMENT; CONCLUSION. - When the

period of amendment has reached to its conclusion, the measure or
proposition will then be approved by the body as the case may be.

RULE X – RULES ON MOTIONS

Section 1. All motions relating to a committee report, if presented or

proposed by the reporting committee Chairman, or the reporting committee
member, shall need NO second.
Section 2. If someone “has the floor”, whether or not he is speaking, a
“motion to adjourn” shall be ruled “out of order”.
Section 3. All “privileged motion” may be proposed even if there is
pending motion or question before the body.
Section 4. The following motions can be presented or proposed even if
someone has the floor, viz:
4.1. Appeal from the decision of the Chair
4.2. Call for orders of the day

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 4.3. Divide the body
4.4. Divide the question
4.5. Object to the consideration of a question
4.6. Point of order
4.7. Point of Information
4.8. Point of Parliamentary Inquiry
4.9. Reconsider
4.10.Reconsider and have entered on the minutes, and
4.11.Raise a Question of Privilege

In other words, the foregoing enumerated motions can interrupt the

speaker.
Section 5. When there is no quorum present, a motion to adjourn or to
take a recess is “in order”.
Section 6. Motions or questions which were laid on the table may be
taken up through a motion to that effect during that particular session or
during the next session but not beyond.
Section 7. The following motions require a SECOND, viz:
a. Adjourn
b. Adopt a report or resolution except when proposed by the reporting committee
Chairman or member
c. Amend
d. Appeal from the decision of the Chair
e. Commit or refer to a committee
f. Expunge
g. Extend or limit the time for debate
h. Fix the time to adjourn
i. Lay on the table
j. Postpone Definitely
k. Postpone Indefinitely
l. Call of the previous Question
m. Recess
n. Reconsider
o. Reconsider and have entered on the minutes
p. Rescind or repeal
q. Suspend the rules
r. Take from the table, and
s. All main motions

Section 8. 1st and 2nd Degree Amendment. A motion to amend

(amendment of the 1st degree) and to amend an amendment (amendment of
the 2nd degree) may be withdrawn but only before a decision is made thereon.
Section 9. 3rd Degree Amendment. A motion to amend is in order
only up to the second degree. Thus, a motion, “to amend an amendment to
an amendment” is out of order.
Section 10. Withdrawal of Moiton. A motion can be withdrawn only
when it is not yet being discussed or debated upon by the body. Otherwise,
any request to withdraw it shall require a general consent or a majority vote
of the members present.

RULES XII – SUSPENSION OF RULES

Section 1. Suspensioin of Rules, Votes Required. Any part of this

“Internal Rules of Procedures” except those prescribed by existing laws, may
be suspended at any particular session by at least two-thirds (2/3) vote of the
members present therein.

RULE XIII - COMMITTEES OF THE SANGGUNIANG PANLALAWIGAN OF

DINAGAT ISLANDS

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 Section 1. CREATION OF COMMITTEES - The Sangguniang
Panlalawigan shall organize Standing Committees at the beginning of its
regular term, and Special Committees may be created as necessary by
resolution of the body to address specific issues or concerns.

Section 2. COMMITTEE DEFINED – A Committee consists of one or

more members elected by and from the Sangguniang Panlalawigan tasked
to study, examine, or investigate, in aid of legislation and independent of
the Body, any matter or subject referred to it by the Body, the Presiding
Officer, the Floor Leader, or any Member thereof for purposes of proposing
policies or legislation in relation thereto.

Section 3. COMPOSITION – A Committee shall be composed of a

Chairman, Vice-Chairman, and such number of members as may be
determined by the Body, which shall in no case be more than five (5)
members including the Chairman, Vice-Chairman, Ex-Officio Members as
provided by law, i.e. the Liga ng mga Barangay, Provincial Chapter
President and the SK Provincial Federation President.

Section 4. POWERS AND FUNCTIONS OF COMMITTEES – The

Standing Committees shall, in aid of legislation, and independent of the
Body:

a) Conduct hearings, investigations, and public

consultations within its jurisdiction;
b) Study, deliberate, and recommend action on
measures referred to it;
c) Draft committee reports, resolutions, or ordinances
for consideration by the plenary;
d) Exercise oversight functions over programs and
activities related to its area of jurisdiction; and
e) Coordinate with relevant government agencies, civil
society, and stakeholders as needed.

Section 5. COMMITTEE PROCEDURE – The Committee shall

function as follows:

a) Shall meet at the call of the Chairperson or upon the

request of the majority of its members. A majority of
all committee members shall constitute a quorum. In
the absence of the Chairperson, the Vice Chairperson
shall preside.

Section 4. REGULAR COMMITTEES. – The following shall be the

Standing Commitees of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, without prejudice to
the creation of others as may be deemed necessary:

4.1. Regular Committees (Compliant to RA 9355, Article V, Section 14

(B) (1)

4.1.1. COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATION, BUDGET, AND FINANCE

The Committee on Appropriation, Budget, and Finance handles all

matters relating to annual and supplemental budgets, government
finances, fund appropriations, and other concerns involving fiscal
administration.

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 4.1.2. COMMITTEE ON REVENUES, LOCAL ECONOMIC
ENTERPRISES, AND INVESTMENT

The Committee on Revenues, Local Economic Enterprises, and

Investment addresses all matters concerning local taxes, fees,
charges, revenue sources, provincial business ventures, investments,
and other economic-related issues.

4.1.3. COMMITTEE ON ENGINEERING, PUBLIC WORKS, AND

INFRASTRUCTURE

The Committee on Engineering, Public Works, and Infrastructure

oversees matters related to the construction, maintenance, and
repair of government infrastructure, drainage and sewerage systems,
and the upkeep of public facilities and properties owned by the
province.

4.1.4. COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION, CULTURE, AND ARTS

The Committee on Education, Culture, and Arts handles matters

concerning education, community cleanliness and beautification,
formal and non-formal learning, including technical and preschool
education, educational facilities, cultural and arts promotion, and the
operation of both public and private educational institutions.

4.1.5. COMMITTEE ON HEALTH AND SANITATION

The Committee on Health and Sanitation addresses matters related

to health, sanitation, and hygiene, the management of provincial
hospitals, protocols during health emergencies, and proposed
measures concerning hospitals, health centers, health programs, and
nutrition.

4.1.6. COMMITTEE ON WOMEN, FAMILY, SOCIAL SERVICES, AND

GENDER & DEVELOPMENT

The Committee on Women, Family, Social Services, and Gender &

Development handles matters concerning women, children, family
relations, welfare and rights, protection from abuse, gender equality,
the concerns of senior citizens and persons with disabilities, social
welfare services, and other related issues on gender and
development.

4.1.7. COMMITTEE ON HUMAN RIGHTS AND JUSTICE

The Committee on Human Rights and Justice addresses matters

related to human rights, the prevention of violations, and the
resolution of issues or problems affecting human rights.

4.1.8. COMMITTEE ON YOUTH ACTIONS AND SPORTS

DEVELOPMENT

The Committee on Youth Actions and Sports Development handles

matters concerning games, amusements, entertainment,
Sangguniang Kabataan activities, and the promotion and
development of sports.

4.1.9. COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENT, ITS PROTECTION, AND

ECOLOGY

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 The Committee on Environment, Its Protection, and Ecology
addresses matters related to environmental protection, air and water
pollution, destruction of natural resources, climate change
mitigation, solid waste management, and other measures affecting
the environment.

4.1.10. COMMITTEE ON PEACE & ORDER, PUBLIC SAFETY, AND

DISASTER

The Committee on Peace & Order, Public Safety, and Disaster

handles matters related to police activities, maintenance of peace
and order, public protection services, fire prevention and control,
police, fire, and jail management, and other concerns affecting public
safety.

4.1.11. COMMITTEE ON TRAFFIC, TRANSPORTATION,

COMMUNICATIONS, AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

The Committee on Traffic, Transportation, Communications, and

Information Technology addresses matters on traffic regulations,
transportation services and franchises, communication systems and
their charges, registration requirements, and other concerns related
to public works, transportation, communication, public utilities, and
facilities.

4.1.12. COMMITTEE ON COOPERATIVES AND OTHER CIVIL

SOCIETY ORGANIZATIONS (CSOs)

The Committee on Cooperatives and Other Civil Society

Organizations (CSOs) handles matters concerning cooperatives,
NGOs, people’s organizations, civil and professional groups, business
groups, incentives for CSOs, and programs or projects affecting the
development of CSOs and the private sector.

4.1.13. COMMITTEE ON RULES, LAWS, AND ORDINANCES

The Committee on Rules, Laws, and Ordinances handles matters

concerning the Sanggunian’s internal rules and order of business,
member conduct and privileges, enactment or amendment of
ordinances (except appropriation ordinances), exercise of legislative
powers, review of lower LGU ordinances and resolutions, and
determination of the legality of proposed measures.

4.1.14. COMMITTEE ON DANGEROUS DRUGS AND OTHER

PROHIBITED SUBSTANCES

The Committee on Dangerous Drugs and Other Prohibited

Substances addresses issues related to illegal drugs and the abuse of
other intoxicating substances, including liquor.

4.1.15. COMMITTEE ON TOURSIM, ARCHAEOLOGY, ANTIQUITIES,

AND CULTURAL HERITAGE

The Committee on Tourism, Archaeology, Antiquities, and Cultural

Heritage handles matters relating to the promotion of the tourism
industry, concerns involving domestic and foreign tourists in the
province, and the preservation of archaeology, antiquities, and
cultural heritage.

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 4.1.16. COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE, FISHERIES, AQUATIC
RESOURCES AND FOOD SECURITY

The Committee on Agriculture, Fisheries, Aquatic Resources, and

Food Security addresses matters related to agricultural production,
inputs, and facilities, agri-business development, constant food
availability, and other concerns involving agriculture, fisheries,
agrarian reform, and plant and animal resources.

4.1.17. COMMITTEE ON MINING, TRADE, AND INDUSTRY

The Committee on Mining, Trade, and Industry handles matters

related to small- and large-scale mining, quarrying, measures and
incentives affecting trade, commerce, and industry, as well as socio-
economic studies, planning, and development.

4.1.18. COMMITTEE ON LABOR, EMPLOYMENT, AND LIVELIHOOD

The Committee on Labor, Employment, and Livelihood addresses

matters on employer-employee relations, labor standards, industrial
peace, labor education and statistics, and the organization,
promotion, recruitment, training, and placement of manpower locally
and abroad.

4.1.19. COMMITTEE ON GOOD GOVERNMENT, ETHICS AND

ACCOUNTABILITY

The Committee on Good Government, Ethics, and Accountability

handles matters concerning ethical standards for local officials and
employees, cases involving municipal officials and appeals of
barangay officials, and other issues related to good governance.

4.1.20. COMMITTEE ON ENERGY, SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY AND

THE INTERNET

The Committee on Energy, Science & Technology, and the Internet

addresses matters related to electric power and energy sources,
DIELCO and NAPOCOR operations, scientific research, inventions and
innovations, computers and advanced technology, and internet and
online systems.

4.1.21. COMMITTEE ON URBAN PLANNING, HOUSING, AND LAND

USE

The Committee on Urban Planning, Housing, and Land Use handles

matters concerning housing programs, subdivision and real estate
development, land use measures, zoning code enactment, squatter
issues, and other concerns related to housing and land utilization.

4.1.22. COMMITTEE ON HUMAN RESOURCE AND GOVERNMENT

ORGANIZATION

The Committee on Human Resource and Government Organization

addresses matters on organizational management, personnel
administration, position classification and pay plans, staffing
patterns, creation of positions, and policies for efficient and effective
local government administration.

4.1.23. COMMITTEE ON MUNICIPAL MATTERS

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 The Committee on Municipal Matters handles issues on the creation,
conversion, division, merger, abolition, and boundary changes of
municipalities, development plans of the seven municipalities of PDI,
settlement of municipal boundary disputes, naming or renaming of
municipalities and public places, and other municipal government
affairs.

4.1.24. COMMITTEE ON BARANGAY DEALINGS

The Committee on Barangay Dealings addresses matters concerning

the development plans and programs of PDI’s 100 barangays, the
naming or renaming of barangays and public places, and other
barangay government affairs.

4.1.25. COMMITTEE ON LEGISLATION MONITORING AND

ASSESSMENT
(OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF ORDINANCES)

The Committee on Legislation Monitoring and Assessment serves as

the oversight body for the implementation of ordinances, handling
the tracking of ordinances after approval by the local chief executive,
assessing their impact on the people, monitoring clarifications
through executive orders or implementing rules, reporting their
status to the plenary, and recommending improvements to enhance
their effectiveness.

4.2. SPECIAL (AD HOC) COMMITTEES. Special Commitee/s may also be

created or organized by a majority vote of all the members of the Sanggunian.

Section 2. CREATION OF ADDITIONAL COMMITTEE. - The Presiding

Officer may recommend for the creation or organization of any committee to
be included as regular committee. The Sanggunian shall act on his
recommendation without debate and vote on it immediately.

Section 3. COMPOSITION. - Every regular committee as herein

mentioned and those to be created be composed of not more than five (5)
members including the Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson.

Section 4. RULES AND RESTRICTIONS.

4.1. The Presiding Officer shall not be a member of any regular

committee. However, he may be designated by the body as the
Chairperson of an Ad-Hoc or Special Committee, provided that
the purpose or task for which the committee is created does not
involve legislative matters or policy-making.
4.2. No person other than members of t he Sanggunian shall be
made a member of any regular committee.
4.3. No member of the Sanggunian shall be made a Chair or Vice
Chair of more than Three (3) regular committees;
4.4. No member of the Sanggunian shall be made a member of more
than Six (6) regular committees; and
4.5. No member shall participate in the committee’s deliberations if
he has a direct or indirect personal or pecuniary interest on the
matter handled by that committee.

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 Section 5. PUBLIC HEARINGS. A Public Hearing is an activity of the
Sanggunian, through its committees, wherein the general public to be
affected by a proposed measure are invited to attend, to hear, and be heard
on that matter.
No tax ordinance or revenue measure shall be enacted by this
Sanggunian in the absence of a public hearing duly conducted by the
committee concerned.

Section 6. COMMITTEE MEETINGS. Committee Meetings shall be

every Monday at 1:00 o’clock in the afternoon or at any day as agreed by 2/3
of the SP members present in session assembled there being a quorum. As a
general rule, a committee meeting shall be attended only by committee
members unless majority members thereof decided to allow other persons to
be present especially invited resource persons or consultants.

Section 7. COMMITTEE HEARING DISTINGUISHED FROM

COMMITTEE MEETING. For purposes of these Internal Rules, a committee
hearing is an activity of the Sanggunian, through its committees, wherein
those representing different sectors that may be interested or to be affected
by a proposed measure are invited to attend to hear and be heard on that
matter.
On the other hand, a committee meeting, as the term implies, is a
“meeting” of the members of the committee for the primary purpose of
decision-making. Since decision-making is a difficult task, the committee is
not precluded from inviting and seeking advice from technical persons.

Section 8. COMMITTEE QUORUM. The number of Board Members

that constitute a quorum for committee meetings should be three (3). In other
words, there shall always be roll calls done in each meeting to determine a
quorum of three. If the quorum is not attained, the committee cannot go on
with the meeting but to adjourn for another schedule.

Section 9. CALLING FOR A COMMITTEE MEETING. A committee

meeting may be called by the following:

9.1. Chairman
9.2. Vice-Chairman, if he is in the capacity of “Acting Chairman”;
9.3. Majority of the committee members
Provided, that due notice is served upon each and every committee
member.

Section 10. VACANCY. - Vacancy in a committee shall be filled:

10.1. By a majority vote of all members of the Sanggunian; or
10.2. By the Presiding Officer with general consent (unanimous or at
least 2/3)of
the members present, there being a quorum.
Section 11. APPEARANCE OF HEAD OF DEPARTMENT / OFFICER
IN COMMITTEE MEETINGS. The following rules shall be observed in
requesting for the appearance of heads of department or offices:

11.1. Official invitation or request of any head of office, whether local or

national, shall be through the Presiding Officer who shall then write a
letter to the Local Chief Executive with attention to the concerned person
to be invited, in the case of the local officials/employees, and for
national/regional officials or employees, directly to the head of a national
office assigned in the province.

11.2. The invitation or request shall specify the reason for such
appearance or the assistance needed, as the case may be. It shall be

27
 served three (3) days in advance except on urgent matters for the good
of the province and under the consent of the LCE, i.e., when the SP on
session assembled, sends a staff to fetch a department head among
others and let him/her appear before the session.
11.3. Generally, the subject matter shall be specified in the invitation
provided however, other matters not related thereto but pertaining to his
or her department or office may be inquired into.

Section 12. REFERRAL TO A JOINT COMMITTEE. - Whenever a

measure covers subject matters falling within the jurisdiction of more than
one committees, the measure shall be referred to the committee within
whose jurisdiction the principal subject matter falls. The committee which
acquires original jurisdiction on any measure shall be mainly responsible for
submitting a report to the body.

Section 13. MINUTES OF COMMITTEE MEETINGS AND HEARINGS.

- There shall be Minutes of all committee meetings and hearings to be
prepared by a secretary duly designated by the Chairman and/or presiding
offficer for the purpose. The minutes shall be signed by all the Committee
Members in attendance, the Secretary-designate, and approved by the
Chairman/Presiding Officer thereof. This Minutes shall be kept in the Office of
the Board Member concerned copy furnished the Office of the SP Secretary.
(BBE-655, 2-2-16, 101st RS)

Section 14. MINUTES OF PUBLIC HEARINGS. There shall be Minutes

of public hearings conducted by a committee as mandated for by law to be
prepared by a secretary duly designated by the Chairman and/or presiding
offficer for the purpose. The minutes shall be signed by the secretary
designate and duly approved by the Chairman or his authorized representaive
to man the said activity in his absence. The Minutes shall be kept in the Office
of the Chairman of the Committee concerned copy furnished the Office of the
SP Secretary. (BBE-655, 2-2-16, 101st RS)

RULE XIV – COMMITTEE REPORT

Section 1. Submission of Committee Report. Every committee to

which a particular measure is referred to by the Presiding Officer, shall submit
its report in the prescribed form and in writing to the Sanggunian through the
Secretary, after finishing its task.
Section 2. Contents of Committee Report. The committee report
shall contain the following information:
2.1 Name of the reporting committee or committees;
2.2 Brief statement of the subject matter referred to it and the
action taken thereon including information gathered
during the conduct of committee hearings or meetings and
other relevant information;
2.3 Findings or conclusions;
2.4 Recommendations (preferably, in the form of Resolution);
2.5 Names and signature of the concurring members.

Section 3. Discharge of Committee. A committee which failed to

submit a committee report within the time required maybe discharged by the
Sanggunian from further consideration of the measure or question referred to
it. Upon motion by any member of the said measure it can be re-assigned to
another committee or submit the measure to the body for proper disposition.
Section 4. Calendaring a Measure for Second Reading. After a
committee has rendered its report and is recommending favorably the

28
enactment of proposed ordinance it has “reported out”, a copy of the
proposed ordinance shall be furnished the Committee on Rules which shall
calendar it for “second reading”. Before the said proposed ordinance is
sponsored on the floor, a copy thereof shall be furnished every Sanggunian
member by the committee Chairman concerned.

Section 5. RULES GOVERNING COMMITTEE REPORTS:

5.1. Report of standing committee has preference over that of
special committee.
5.2. Motions relating to the adoption of committee
recommendations, if made by the reporting committee
member, need no second.
5.3. If the report contains no recommendation, no action is
necessary thus, it is consigned to the files for future
considerations.
5.4. The body may adopt or reject the report, either in whole or in
part.
5.5. The body may postpone, definitely or indefinitely, the
consideration of the report or recommendations therein as
the case maybe.
5.6. The body may decide to return the report to the concerned
committee to refer it to another committee for proper action.
Section 6. Regular Committee Prioritized. In rendering committee
reports, priority shall be given to regular committees (mandatory committees)
to be followed by special committees (Ad Hoc).
Section 7. Format of Committee Reports. As a general rule,
committee reports shall be in writing and be rendered by its Chairman, unless
he/she dissents with the majority decision. In his absence, the Vice-Chairman
shall take place. If neither of them is present, any committee
member concurring with the report and duly designated by the said
committee shall render the report.
Section 8. If the reporting committee recommends a favorable action
on the measure referred to it or if the reporting committee recommends a
proposed measure for appropriate action by the Sanggunian, the Committee
on Rules shall calendar it for “Second Reading” during the next regular
session.
If the reporting committee’s recommendation is unfavorable, the
proposed measure (except for the concurrence of appointment) shall be
considered laid on the table, returned to its origin, or shelved in the archive of
the Sanggunian.
For concurrence of the appointment of the LCE, whether the
recommendation is favorable or not, it shall be discussed in the plenary for
finality of decision whether to concur or not.

RULE XV – JOURNAL AND RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS

Section 1. Record of Proceedings. The Sanggunian shall keep a
“journal and record” of its proceedings which may be published upon
resolution of the majority of the members thereof. This Journal shall be
submitted in the plenary for approval every after the lapse of, at least two
weeks but not more than one (1) month, to give ample time to the tanscribing
staff.
Section 2. Minutes. There shall be Minutes of the Sessions separate
and distinct from the Journal of Proceedings which shall be prepared by the
Secretary to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Office via the Stenographic
Reporter hired for the purpose among others tasks.

29
 Section 3. Reading and Consideration of Minutes. The minutes of
the previous session shall be submitted by the Secretary to the Sanggunian
during its succeeding regular session. The Sanggunian shall first determine if
there are corrections to be made on the minutes and act on it accordingly
before the same is adopted by the body and becomes its property.
Consideration of the minutes shall not be dispensed with. Reading of the
minutes “verbatim” may be dispensed with if the members were already
furnished a copy thereof beforehand. Being all responsible men and women
the members are presumed to have read the minutes already before they
come to the session. In any case, the minutes submitted by the
Secretary shall be acted upon by the members present, in one way or the
other.

Section 4. Contents of Minutes. The Minutes shall contain the

following information:
4.1. Place, date, and time of the sessions;
4.2. Whether it is special or regular;
4.3. Names of the members present therein and those who are
absent;
4.4. Action taken on the minutes of the previous session including
the correction, if any; in cases when there is a division of the
house, names of those who approved it and those who did not
shall be written in the space provided for.
4.5. Text of every measure (resolution or ordinance, etc.) adopted or
enacted;
4.6. Brief resumé of the minority opinion, if any;
4.7. The “Ayes” and “Nays” or ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ votes on every
question (measure) and if voting is done thru nominal voting or
roll call the names of those who voted on either side.
4.8. All motions presented or proposed, whether lost or carried,
except those withdrawn;
4.9. Full text of the veto message of the local chief executive, if
any; and
4.10.Time of adjournment.

Section 5. Signing of the Journal and the Minutes. The Presiding

Officer, the SP Members present, the Sitting Secretry of a particular session,
and the Stenographic Reported taking-down/recording the Proceedings during
the session shall sign or affix their signatures above their respective names at
the end of the Journal and the Minutes.

5.1. The dry seal replaces the per page signing which is very taxing in a
documents with many pages such as Journal of Proceedings and the Minutes.

5.2. The Stenographic Reporter present or her/his counterpart and the

Sitting Secretary shall also affix their signatures/initial above their respective
names at the end of the Journal and the Minutes to certify and attest the
veracity of the contents thereof.

Section 6. Excerpts. Excerpt to be taken out from the minutes shall

be certified and attested to as correct by the Secretary and the Presiding
Officer on that particular session, respectively.

RULE XVI. PAPERS AND DOCUMENTS

Section 1.Secretary to keep the same Files. As businesses are

disposed of by the committees, all documents and papers related to such
businesses shall be delivered to the Secretary who shall keep the same in the
files of the Sanggunian.

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 Section 2. Preservation of Files. At the adjournment of the last
session of the Sanggunian, all papers still in the possession of any committee
shall be delivered to the Secretary who shall preserve them in the files of the
Sanggunian in the manner required by the character of said papers.
Section 3.Certified Copy of Any Record. The Secretary shall issue,
upon demand of any person, a certified copy of any record within his control
and shall be authorized to charge a fee for said purpose in the manner
prescribed by law.

RULE XVII - THE SANGGUNIANG PANLALAWIGAN MACE

Section 1. The Importance of Mace. The Sangguniang Panlalawigan

mace is the symbolic authority of the legislative body and shall be
accorded with due respect especially when it is mounted on the stand
during sessions.
Section 2. Behavior when mace is mounted. When the mace is
already on the stand during a session, anyone shall remain silent and shall
behave accordingly or he/she will be under penalty of expulsion from the
Session Hall by order of the Presiding Officer.
Section 3. Mace Position, technicality. The mace shall be turned to its
back during a recess declared by the Presiding Officer and in any occasion
where there is suspension of the rules or when there is no order in the
session.

RULE XVIII - LEGISLATIVE SECURITY

Section 1. CSU Guards on Sessions. There shall be guards in prescribed
uniform from the Civil Security Unit assigned during sessions of the
Sangguniang Panlalawigan. For this purpose, the Sanggunian through the
Office of the Presiding Officer may send a request to the CSU of the
province for this purpose.
Section 2. Presence of Police Officers. The Sanggunian may request for
the presence of police officers in a session if needed by a certain
circumstance or upon the will of the Presiding Officer.

RULE XIX - USE OF ENGLISH LANGUAGE

Section 1. Official Language. The Official language to be used during

sessions is English. All documents officially issued from the Sangguniang
Panlalawigan shall be in English language. Municipal Sanggunians are
hereby encouraged to use English in their official communications.
Section 2. Dialects. The use of Filipino, Bisayan, and/or Surigaonon
Dialect/s during sessions is permissive. It means that an SP Member may
use all or any of these languages to explain further his/her point/s on
certain measure on the premise that there are ideas that can be
understood well in Filipino or in a dialect as the case maybe.
RULE XX- DISCIPLINE

SECTION 1. Discipline. The Sanggunian may punish its members for

disorderly behavior and absence without justifiable cause for four (4)
consecutive sessions, for which they may be censured, reprimanded, or
excluded from the session hall, or, with the concurrence of at least two-thirds
of all members of the sanggunian, be suspended or expelled, provided that a
member convicted by final judgment to imprisonment of at least one year for
any crime involving moral turpitude shall be automatically expelled from the
Sanggunian. Penalties shall be imposed only after proper investigation and
due process shall have been afforded the concerned member.

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RULE XXI–CONDUCT UNBECOMING TO HONORABLE SP MEMBERS AND
THEIR PENALTIES.

Any member whose conduct is unbecoming of an honorable person and has

transgressed the herein Articles shall be punished with the corresponding
penalties hereunder prescribed.
Section 1. For DISORDERLY CONDUCT OR BEHAVIOR DURING A
SESSION:
a. First Offense - Reprimand;
b. Second Offense - Suspension for Two (2) regular
Sessions without remuneration; and
c. Third Offense - Expulsion.

Section 2. For DISORDERLY CONDUCT OR BEHAVIOR DURING

COMMITTEE HEARING OR COMMITTEE MEETINGS:
a. First Offense - Reprimand
b. Second Offense - Exclusion from the membership in the
Committee concerned

Section 3. FOR COMING LATE IN ANY SESSION.

Fine of P 100.00 per hour or a fraction thereof.
Section 4. For CONVICTION BY FINAL JUDGEMENT TO
IMPRISONMENT OF AT LEAST ONE (1) YEAR FOR ANY CRIME
INVOLVING MORAL TURPITUDE:
Automatic Expulsion
Section 5. FOR UNJUSTIFIED ABSENCE IN A COMMITTEE
HEARING/MEETING OF WHICH HE IS A COMPOSITE MEMBER
WITHOUT WRITTEN NOTICE.
Fine of P 100.00 without prejudice to the filing of
corresponding administrative charge for neglect of duty.

RULE XXV – AMENDMENTS

Section 1. Amendments to IRP. This “Internal Rules of Procedure”

may be amended at any regular session by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of all the
members of this Sanggunian, provided that prior notice of such proposed
amendment is given at least one day before the scheduled session to all
members and provided further that no provision herein which is based on, or
prescribed by, existing laws shall be amended.

RULE XXVI. EFFECTIVITY

Section. 1. This “Internal Rules of Procedure” shall take effect on the

date of its adoption.

Adopted: July 1, 2025. Capitol,Cuarinta, San Jose, Dinagat Islands.

CERTIFIED CORRECT:

SEGUNDINO S. BASADRE
Secretary to the

32
 Sangguniang Panlalawigan

ATTESTED/DULY ADOPTED:

GERALDINE B. ECLEO, MPA

Provincial Vice Governor/
Presiding Officer

Copy furnished:
 VG
 8 Regular SP Members
 3 Ex-Officio Members
 SP Secretary
 File (Record)

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