Opening Speech in the Special Committee on Land Use Hearing

Dinagat Rep. Kaka Bag-ao delivered this opening speech in the 20 November 2013 hearing of the Special Committee on Land Use where the consolidated National Land Use Act was approved. She is a principal author of this proposed legislative measure.

Acceptance Speech for the Rotary Outstanding Surigaonon Award for Law and Public Service

Dinagat Islands Rep. Kaka Bag-ao delivered this acceptance speech last 30 August 2013 for the Rotary Outstanding Surigaonon Award for Law and Public Service (Rotary International District 3860). 

[LEGAL NOTES] Extracting good policy from bad legislation: A review of Executive Order No. 79, Series of 2012

Are all critical areas in “No-Go Mining Zones” actually mine-free? Does the moratorium on mining prohibit the operations of mining within the protected areas? Are LGUs deprived of their Rule-Making Power when it comes to mining?

[LEGAL NOTES] Queries on CARPER beyond 2014

The DAR’s continuing mandate and authority to process and proceed with the acquisition and distribution of agricultural landholdings issued with Notices of Coverage prior to CARP expiration on June 30, 2014.

Utilization of legislated budget for a government program for its full implementation shall be allowed even after the expiration of said program.

No less than Section 4, Article VIII of the Philippine Constitution  mandates that “The State shall, by law, undertake an agrarian reform program founded on the right of farmers and regular farm workers, who are landless, to own directly or indirectly the land they till.” The same section adds that, “the State shall encourage and undertake the just distribution of all agricultural lands, subject to such priorities and reasonable retention limits as the Congress may provide xxx.” 

[LEGAL NOTES] Simplifying the Senate Rules on impeachment trials

What is the nature of the impeachment proceedings before the Senate?  How will the trial proceed?  What are the salient features of the Senate Rules?  

      

The impeachment trial of Supreme Court Chief Justice Renato Corona has already begun and the people are eager to watch, learn and analyze the ongoings. Hence, it is just but fitting that a short rundown of the Senate rules on impeachment trial be made so that the ordinary citizen may be apprised of the rules that govern this all-important proceeding which would ultimately affect the nation and the people’s lives.