House OK’s 3 health bills on final reading
THE HOUSE of Representatives on Monday approved three health-related bills and an economic waste measure on third reading.
House bill 10697 or the proposed Geriatric Health Act got 201 votes, while House bill 10650 or the proposed Apex Hospital Act got 197 votes.
House bill 10701, which grants community health workers additional benefits, was also passed on final reading. The Senate approved a counterpart measure on Monday.
The Apex Hospital bill seeks to establish state-run medical institutions that offer specialized services in all regions of the country. The Geriatric Health bill will create a National Health and Research Center for elderly care.
Meanwhile, congressmen approved on third reading House bill 10696 or the proposed Economic Producer Responsibility Act, which aims to hold companies more accountable for their plastic products, with 194 votes.
Businesses that violate the measure will be fined as much as P20 million and lose their permits.
Also on Monday, congressmen ratified three bicameral council reports, including one that amends the law on the renewal of building contractors’ licenses.
The House also ratified the bicameral report on a bill that will establish a Philippine Military Judiciary Marshals Service and another bill that will strengthen the Teacher Education Council. — Jaspearl Emerald G. Tan
