Press Releases

Villanueva: Senate debates are the essence of democracy

November 29, 2022

Sen. Villanueva said that debates and discussions on the floor and during committee hearings show the true essence of democracy. READ MORE

2023 budget, agri to fuel economic growth momentum - Villanueva

November 14, 2022

Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva said that the government should not waste any opportunity to sustain the positive momentum of the growth of the Philippine economy.  This could be done through a 2023 national budget that has sufficient social and economic support for the current positive growth momentum, and ensuring food security by supporting the agriculture sector. READ MORE

“Kayod Marino”: Villanueva urges MARINA and CHED to go all-in to save jobs of more than 30K  Filipino seafarers on EU vessels

October 30, 2022

Sen. Villanueva is seeking for the swift response from the MARINA and CHED to ensure the country’s compliance to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, saying that We need to uphold that sterling reputation by securing the qualifications of our seafarers under European Union (EU) standards. READ MORE

"Computerized licensure exams are twenty years late” - Villanueva

October 25, 2022

Sen. Joel Villanueva expressed concerns on the “long overdue” status of the computer-based licensure examinations project of the Professional Regulation Commission, as the PRC Modernization Act of 2000 (Republic Act No. 8981) was enacted more than two decades ago. READ MORE

Villanueva to CSC: Let’s end endo in government

October 22, 2022

Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva is calling on the Civil Service Commission to address the high number of Job Order and Contract of Service employees in government and provide them with security of tenure especially if they have civil service eligibility. READ MORE

Villanueva calls for additional allowances and benefits for teachers

October 5, 2022

Receiving the Gawad Sulo Award for Public Service from the Philippine Normal University (PNU) for his unwavering work for the welfare and betterment of the country's educators, Sen. Joel Villanueva renewed his push for additional allowances and benefits for teachers. READ MORE

Villanueva: problem of unfilled permanent govt positions lingers for years

September 15, 2022

Sen. Villanueva called on the Marcos administration to finally resolve the persistent problem of unfilled positions in government offices and agencies, which is an issue that he has been bringing up every year since 2017.  READ MORE

Co-sponsorship Speech on the SIM Registration Act

September 13, 2022

Sen. Joel Villanueva delivers the co-sponsorship speech on Senate Bill No. 1310, under Committee Report No. 5, entitled “Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) Registration Act.” READ MORE

Sen. Villanueva on the latest Labor Force Survey results (Sep. 9, 2022)

September 9, 2022

Sen. Joel Villanueva comments on the country's unemployment and underemployment rate, and the need for a sustained National Employment Recovery Strategy. READ MORE

Co-sponsorship speech on the Safe Pathways Act

September 7, 2022

Sen. Joel Villanueva delivered this co-sponsorship for the Senate Bill No. 1290, or the Walkable and Bikeable Communities Act during the Senate session on 7 September 2022. READ MORE

Statement on the prevalence of text scams

September 5, 2022

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Villanueva: “I’m salty about the state of our salt industry"

August 28, 2022

Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva said he is concerned with the recent statement from the Department of Agriculture that  the Philippines cannot produce enough salt for its own needs because of government neglect over the past 15 years. He said that he it is quite shameful for an archipelagic country with more than 36,000 kilometers of shoreline. READ MORE

Villanueva to employers: Hire tech-voc grads, help spur economy

August 27, 2022

Sen. Joel Villanueva exhorted employers and companies to invest in technical vocational graduates as he pitched for their continuous training to match the skills demand of industries. READ MORE

Villanueva: Stimulate MSMEs to boost local products

August 24, 2022

micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are keys to popularizing locally made products in the domestic and international markets, especially as the country’s economy is recovering from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.  READ MORE

Sen. Joel Villanueva’s statement on the opening of classes

August 22, 2022

The "all systems go" pronouncement of the Department of Education (DepEd) for the opening of classes must be matched with the readiness on the ground of the facilities, teachers and students. READ MORE

Villanueva: Allow WFH arrangements for companies in ecozones

August 18, 2022

Senator Joel Villanueva is pushing for a measure allowing businesses registered in investment promotion agencies to adopt a Work-from-Home (WFH) arrangement for their employees while maintaining their tax and fiscal incentives. READ MORE

Villanueva: sustained employment recovery to combat high poverty incidence

August 17, 2022

Senator Joel Villanueva urged the government to provide long term solutions for job generation in order to address the high poverty incidence in the country. READ MORE

Villanueva: Training-cum-production ng TESDA, makakatulong sa mga nasalanta ng Odette na itaguyod ang kanilang mga bahay, magkaroon ng trabaho

December 21, 2021

May sapat na kakayahan at karanasan ang mga tauhan ng Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) upang tulungan ang mga nasalanta ng komunidad ng Bagyong Odette nitong nakalipas na araw para buuin muli ang kani-kanilang mga tahanan at magkaroon ng sapat na skills para kumite, ayon kay Senator Joel Villanueva. READ MORE

Villanueva: TESDA’s training-cum-production can help Pinoys in typhoon-hit areas to rebuild houses, become employable

December 21, 2021

The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) has the right skills and personnel, and a wealth of experience to mobilize and organize communities hit by Typhoon Odette over the weekend to help them rebuild their own homes and enable them to be certified to earn a means of living as well, according to Senator Joel Villanueva. READ MORE

Villanueva, umaasang bubuhusan ng sapat na pondo ng susunod na administrasyon ang Department of Migrant Workers

December 17, 2021

Pagsisigurong sapat ang pondo ng itatatag na Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) ang isa sa mga malalaking trabahong aasahan ng mga OFWs sa papasok na administrasyon sa susunod na taon, ayon kay Senator Joel Villanueva. READ MORE

Villanueva hopes next admin gives financial muscle to Department of Migrant Workers

December 17, 2021

Ensuring that the Department of Migrant Workers will have sufficient funding is the next big step for the incoming administration next year, according to Senator Joel Villanueva. READ MORE

Villanueva: Simple bodycams of Customs personnel may help curb agri products smuggling, save farm jobs

December 14, 2021

An affordable and available gadget could save Filipino jobs lost to reported rampant smuggling of agricultural products, Senator Joel Villanueva, chair of the Senate labor and employment committee, said. READ MORE

Villanueva: Panukalang magtatayo ng Department of Migrant Workers, pasado na sa Senado; 'Itatatag ang isang bahay na gawa ng, para sa OFW'

December 14, 2021

naprubahan ng Senado ngayon sa ikatlo at huling pagbasa ang isang bill na layong magtayo ng isang Department of Migrant Workers, isang panukalang dineklarang “urgent” ng administrasyon. READ MORE

Villanueva leads passage of bill on Dept of Migrant Workers; 'Finally, a house made by, for OFW.'

December 14, 2021

The Senate today stamped its approval on the bill creating the Department of Migrant Workers, in a major advance for a legislation the administration has pushed as an urgent measure. READ MORE

Villanueva: Bodycams para sa Customs kontra smuggling ng produktong agrikultura, makakapagsalba ng trabaho sa bukid

December 14, 2021

Abot-kayang gadget lang ang katapat ng malawakang at tahasang smuggling ng produktong agrikultura na makakapagsalba ng libo-libong trabahong bukid, ayon kay Senator Joel Villanueva. READ MORE

Villanueva: Palakasin ang seguridad kontra mga ‘online mandurukot’ na nambibiktima ng manggagawa

December 13, 2021

Kung ang ordinaryong mamamayan ay bantay-sarado sa kanilang pitaka laban sa mandurukot, ganun din sana ang pagsisikap ng mga bangko laban sa mga “online mandurukot” na ang biktima ay karaniwang manggagawa at ang kanilang pinaghirapang sweldo at deposito, ayon kay Senator Joel Villanueva. READ MORE

Villanueva: Heighten cybersecurity measures to foil digital pickpockets preying on workers' e-wallets, bank accounts

December 13, 2021

If ordinary employees guard their hard-earned money against pickpockets, banks should also make sure that cybercriminals don’t pick the digital wallets of those who gave them their pay for safekeeping, Senator Joel Villanueva said today. READ MORE

Villanueva, naghain ng panukala laban sa ‘budol text scam’; 'Labanan ang epidemya ng smishing na bumubudol sa mga manggagawang naghahanap ng trabaho at pagkakakitaan'

December 2, 2021

Inihain si Senator Joel Villanueva ng panukala para labanan ang mga “budol text scams” na nakakapambiktima ngayon ng maraming mamamayan, lalo na ang mga nawalan ng trabaho, na pinapangakuan ng mataas na sahod. READ MORE

Villanueva files ‘anti-budol text’ measure; ‘We have to fight this smishing epidemic targeting vulnerable, jobless workers’

December 2, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva has filed a bill providing mobile phone subscribers an “opt-in” mechanism on push messages on SMS or calls as a response to the pervasive text messages circulating in the public offering purported high-paying jobs and other products. READ MORE

Villanueva: Nip 'budol' text scams as next ‘great pyramid’ will be built on stolen cellphone users’ data

November 26, 2021

The government should adopt a zero tolerance policy  against text scams as the “next great pyramid” will be built on the foundation of stolen data of cellphone and internet users, Senator Joel Villanueva said today. READ MORE

Villanueva, mungkahi ang 'zero tolerance' sa ‘budol’ text scam

November 26, 2021

Mungkahi ni Senator Joel Villanueva na magpatupad ng zero-tolerance policy laban sa mga text scam dahil maaaring ang susunod na pyramid scam ay magmula sa mga nakaw na data ng mga cellphone at internet users. READ MORE

Statement of Senator Joel Villanueva on the call of China for the Philippines to remove the BRP Sierra Madre at Ayungin Shoal


November 25, 2021

Trespassers have no right to issue an eviction order. Ayungin Shoal is part of the continental shelf that is 104 nautical miles from the archipelagic baseline of Palawan and thus within our country’s  200-nautical mile EEZ under UNCLOS. READ MORE

Villanueva: Workers jabbed on nat’l vax holidays on ‘paid vaccination leave’; calls on DOLE, CSC to issue guidance

November 25, 2021

The government should widely disseminate the presidential order that employees who will get jabbed during the three-day national vaccination drive shall not be marked absent, Sen. Joel Villanueva said. READ MORE

Villanueva: Mga manggagawang papabakuna sa nat’l vax holiday, bayad ang pagliban sa trabaho; DOLE at CSC, dapat mag-isyu ng guidelines

November 25, 2021

Marapat umano na ipakalat ng gobyerno ang isang direktiba mula sa Pangulo na nagsasabing ang lahat ng magpapabakunang manggagawa, pribado man o sa pamahalaan, sa loob ng tatlong araw na national vaccination holiday ay hindi mamarkahang lumiban sa trabaho, ayon kay Senator Joel Villanueva. READ MORE

Villanueva, nanawagang ipagpatuloy ang resupply mission para sa mga Marines sa Ayungin Shoal

November 23, 2021

Hiniling ni Senator Joel Villanueva sa gobyerno na kaagad ipagpatuloy ang naantalang resupply mission sa sa mga sundalo ng Philippine Navy na kasalukuyang grounded o hindi makaalis sa Ayungin Shoal, ayon kay Senator Joel Villanueva. READ MORE

Villanueva: 'Do Not Call Registry' law, war vs text blast device smugglers, to stop epidemic of 'budol' texts

November 23, 2021

The National Privacy Commission’s meeting with telcos to strategize how text spams can be tripped from the carrier’s end is just one in the to-do list to stop unwanted SMS, Sen. Joel Villanueva said today. READ MORE

Villanueva calls on gov’t to resume resupply mission to grounded Marines in Ayungin Shoal

November 23, 2021

The government should be able to resupply soldiers manning a grounded Navy ship in Ayungin Shoal because failure to do so would send a chilling effect to Filipino fishermen in Philippine waters now claimed by a foreign nation. READ MORE

Villanueva: Batas para sa 'Do Not Call Registry,’ paghahabol sa text blast device smugglers, susi sa pagpapatigil ng 'budol' text

November 23, 2021

Ang pagpupulong ng National Privacy Commission at mga telcos para mapatigil ang mga “budol text scams” ay isa lamang sa mga paraan upang tuluyan nang mawala ang pagpapadala ng mga hindi kanais-nais na SMS, ayon kay Senator Joel Villanueva. READ MORE

Villanueva to Privacy Commission: Stop the ‘budol SMS scams’ that offer shady jobs

November 22, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva has asked the National Privacy Commission to look into the “epidemic of ‘text scams,’” particularly the kind in which cell phone numbers are barraged with job ads or offers. READ MORE

Villanueva, hinikayat ang Privacy Commission na silipin ang mga ‘budol SMS scams’ na nag-aalok ng kaduda-dudang trabaho

November 22, 2021

Hiniling ni Senator Joel Villanueva sa National Privacy Commission na masusing imbestigahan ang kumakalat na text scams partikular na nanggagaling sa mga numerong nag-aalok kunwari ng trabaho sa publiko. READ MORE

Statement of Senator Joel Villanueva on the passing of Cebu City Mayor Edgardo Labella

November 19, 2021

I remember Mayor Edgardo Labella as a gentleman whose words were measured, gestures kind, and affection genuine. READ MORE

Villanueva: P2.6-B dagdag-pondo sa ‘Doktor para sa Bayan,’ magdaragdag ng mas maraming medical scholars sa susunod na taon

November 14, 2021

Ang pondo para sa medical scholarship ay pinalaki sa P2.6 bilyon para sa 2022 upang palawakin pa ang pagpapatupad ng Doktor Para sa Bayan Act na naglalayong lumikha ng libo-libong bagong doktor kada taon, ayon kay Senator Joel Villanueva. READ MORE

Villanueva: P2.6-B boost for 'Doktor para sa Bayan' program to bring in more medicine scholars in SUCs next year

November 14, 2021

Funding for medical scholarships will be boosted to about P2.6 billion in 2022, as the Doktor Para sa Bayan Act, which aims to produce thousands of physicians, goes on full blast, the law’s principal sponsor, Senator Joel Villanueva, said today. READ MORE

Villanueva: P5.024 trilyong national budget, dapat lumikha ng mas maraming trabaho

November 12, 2021

Marapat na siguruhin ng gobyerno na sa bawat piso ng P5.024-trilyong national budget sa susunod ay magagamit upang lumikha ng maraming trabaho para sa mga manggagawa, lalo na yung mga nawalan ng trabaho bunsod sa pandemya, ayon kay Senator Joel Villanueva. READ MORE

Villanueva: Massive jobs should come out of P5.024-T national budget

November 12, 2021

The administration should see to it that the P5.024 trillion national budget will be a massive “job generation” investment, with every spending leveraged to create as many employment opportunities possible, Senator Joel Villanueva said. READ MORE

Villanueva: Tatlong araw na nat’l vaxx drive, malaking tulong para sa mga 'jabless jobless'

November 9, 2021

Ang planong tatlong araw na bakunahan ng pamahalaan mula Nobyembre 29 hanggang Disyembre 1 ay isang malaking 'booster shot' na kailangan ng bansa upang mapataas pa ang bilang ng nabakunahan na hanggang ngayon ay hindi lumalagpas sa kalahati ng target na bilang, ayon kay Senator Joel Villanueva. READ MORE

Villanueva: 3-day nat’l vaxx drive a big push to reach 'jabless' workers

November 9, 2021

The government’s planned three-day national vaccination drive from Nov. 29 to Dec. 1 is the “booster shot” needed to spike inoculation numbers, which nine months after the first shot was administered have yet to hit 50 percent of target. READ MORE

Villanueva: Vaxx mandate on state aid recipients will penalize ‘jabless jobless’

November 8, 2021

Any proposal to write into the 2022 national budget a provision making COVID-19 vaccination a requisite for receiving DSWD aid such the 4Ps stipend will penalize the “jabless jobless,” Senator Joel Villanueva said.   READ MORE

Villanueva, tutol sa panukalang ‘no bakuna, no ayuda’ policy; Dobleng dagok ang ‘jabless jobless’

November 8, 2021

Anumang panukala na maglagay ng probisyon sa 2022 national budget na gawing requirement ang bakuna kontra COVID-19 bago makatanggap ng ayuda mula sa DSWD tulad ng 4Ps ay magsisilbi lamang pahirap at parusa sa mga mamamayang hindi pa nakakatanggap ng bakuna, ani Senator Joel Villanueva. READ MORE

Deputy Speaker Santos-Recto to TESDAMAN: Support Candidates who Rally for Job Creation

November 8, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva has found an ally in Batangas Rep. Vilma Santos-Recto in advocating the creation of jobs and employment opportunities, especially for millions of displaced workers to allow them the means to earn a decent living. READ MORE

Deputy Speaker Santos-Recto kay TESDAMAN: Suportahan ang mga kandidatong nagsusulong ng paglikha ng trabaho, kabuhayan

November 8, 2021

Sinangayunan ni Batangas Rep. Vilma Santos-Recto ang panawagang ni Senator Joel Villanueva na patuloy na isulong ang paggawa at paglikha ng trabaho, lalo na sa mga milyun-milyong Pilipinong nawalan ng kabuhayan bunsod ng pandemya. READ MORE

Villanueva: Sa paghupa ng COVID, asahan ang pagbugso ng milyong aplikasyon sa passport

November 3, 2021

Dahil sa pagbaba ng bilang ng COVID cases sa buong mundo, hiniling ni Senator Joel Villanueva sa pamahalaan na magbukas ng mas maraming passport processing centers sa mga malls sa labas ng Metro Manila dahil sa inaasahang pagdagsa ng aplikasyon para sa passport ng mga OFWs. READ MORE

Villanueva: As COVID retreats, surge of passport applications in the millions expected

November 3, 2021

As the easing of COVID-19 cases prompts OFWs to job-hunt again, the government should open more off-site passport processing centers in malls outside of Metro Manila, Sen. Joel Villanueva said today. READ MORE

Usaping trabaho: Bilyong utang ng PhilHealth sa mga ospital, magdudulot ng ‘brain drain’ sa healthcare workers --Villanueva

November 2, 2021

Ang pagkabalam ng pagbabayad ng utang ng PhilHealth sa mga pribadong ospital ay magdudulot ng malaking kahirapan sa mga pagamutang ito na mapanatili ang mga healthcare workers o HCWs sa frontlines, ayon kay Senator Joel Villanueva. READ MORE

It's a job issue: Villanueva says PhilHealth megabillions debt to hospitals to lead to hemorrhage of med staff

November 2, 2021

The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) delays in reimbursing private hospitals for treating members of the state health insurer will make it harder for hospitals to retain critical manpower, Senator Joel Villanueva said today.  READ MORE

Villanueva: DOH has over 14,000 unfilled plantilla positions, but still seeking P3.8-B for hiring of temporary healthcare workers

October 20, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva today raised what appears to be conflicting numbers in the Department of Health’s (DOH) hiring program, saying that while the DOH was asking for P3.8 billion in funds to hire additional personnel under its emergency hiring program, there still remained over than 14,000 unfilled positions in the department. READ MORE

Villanueva pins importance of training to help displaced workers find jobs in ‘new normal’

October 19, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva underscored the pivotal role of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in the government’s efforts to get millions of unemployed Filipinos back to work after suffering job loss during the pandemic. READ MORE

Villanueva: Libreng TESDA training para sa mga manggagawang nawalan ng trabaho, susi sa pagbangon mula sa pandemya

October 19, 2021

Muling tinumbok ni Senator Joel Villanueva ang kahalagahan ng pagbibigay ng libreng training ng Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) bilang bahagi ng programa ng gobyerno upang ibalik ang trabaho ng milyun-milyong Pilipinong nawalan ng hanapbuhay bunsod ng pandemya. READ MORE

OPENING REMARKS of Senator Joel Villanueva, vice chair of the Senate finance committee, hearing the 2022 budget proposal of Technical Education and Skills Development Authority

October 18, 2021

Mapagpalang umaga po sa ating lahat.

As I was looking around our colleagues at TESDA, I was reminded of one word which is very famous everytime we conduct meetings, executive meetings in TESDA, and that word would be “anticipation. READ MORE

Statement of Senator Joel Villanueva on his inclusion in the Senatorial slates of presidential candidates

October 15, 2021

We are very thankful, honored and humbled for the inclusion of TESDAMAN as a guest candidate of VP Leni Robredo, Sen. Ping Lacson, and Sen. Manny Pacquiao, as well as other presidential candidates. READ MORE

Villanueva: Trabahong 'stable, dependable' ang dapat malikha sa NERS

October 12, 2021

Iginiit ni Senator Joel Villanueva ang kahalagahan ng paglikha ng regular at sustainable na mga trabaho sa ilalim ng National Employment Recovery Strategy (NERS) ng gobyerno, kung saan ipinakita ng Department of Labor and Employment sa kanilang datos na bahagya lamang natugunan nito ang malawakang kawalan ng trabaho bunsod ng COVID-19 pandemic.  READ MORE

Villanueva: Create 'stable, dependable' jobs under NERS

October 12, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva highlighted the importance of creating regular, sustainable jobs under the government's National Employment Recovery Strategy (NERS), saying that data presented by the labor department on Monday only scratched the surface of the massive unemployment triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic. READ MORE

Villanueva presses DOLE to spur employment generation

October 11, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva today sounded the alarm on the employment situation in the Philippines as a result of the pandemic, saying tens of millions of Filipinos needed employment now and stable sources of income. READ MORE

OPENING REMARKS of Senator Joel Villanueva on the 2022 budget hearing of the Department of Labor and Employment and Commission on Filipinos Overseas

October 11, 2021

Isang maganda at magpagpalang araw po sa ating lahat. 

Today, we are going to hear the budget of the Department of Labor and Employment and its attached agencies, led by our good friend and favorite Secretary, Secretary Bebot Bello, and of the Commission on Filipinos Overseas, led by Chairperson Francisco Acosta. READ MORE

Villanueva, isinusulong ang ‘Jobs, Jobs, Jobs’ sa kanyang reelection bid

October 6, 2021

Naghain ng kanyang certificate of candidacy si Senator Joel Villanueva at sinimulan ang kanyang reelection bid, na naka-angkla sa panunumbalik ng trabaho sa milyun-milyong Pilipino nawalan ng hanapbuhay bunsod ng COVID-19 pandemic. READ MORE

Villanueva bats for 'Jobs, Jobs, Jobs' as lawmaker sets off Senate reelection bid

October 6, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva today filed his certificate of candidacy for reelection, saying his mission to generate legislation that would create jobs for millions of Filipinos, especially for those displaced from work during the still ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, is continuing. READ MORE

Villanueva questions Pharmally’s non-payment of gov’t-mandated contributions

October 5, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva today raised red flags on signs that Pharmally Pharmaceutical Corp., which bagged tens of billions of COVID-19 supply contracts from the Philippine government, was a fly-by-night enterprise. READ MORE

Villanueva, muling kinwestyon ang hindi pagbayad ng SSS, PhilHealth, Pag-ibig contributions ng Pharmally para sa mga empleyado nila

October 5, 2021

Muling kinwestyon ni Senator Joel Villanueva ang hindi pagbayad ng government-mandated contributions ng Pharmally Pharmaceutical Corp., na nakakuha ng bilyun-bilyong halaga ng COVID-19 supply contracts mula sa gobyerno. READ MORE

Villanueva, nag-anunsyo ng kanyang Senate reelection bid; ‘Training para sa manggagawa, susi sa pagbangon ng ekonomiya’

October 2, 2021

Ang kakayahan ng bansa na ibangon ang ekonomiya ng bansa sa panahon ng pandemya ay nakasalalay sa kung paano ito bibigyan ng sapat na pagsasanay ang mga manggagawa upang umayon sa “new normal,” ayon kay Senator Joel Villanueva. READ MORE

In announcing his Senate reelection bid, Villanueva says trained labor force in ‘new normal’ a make-or-break for recovery

October 2, 2021

The country’s “agility to pivot to the post-pandemic economy” will depend largely on how it can train a labor force that could meet the demands of the “new world of work,” Senator Joel "Tesdaman" Villanueva said as he announced his reelection bid. READ MORE

Villanueva: Panukalang magtatatag ng DMWOF, malapit nang maaprubahan

October 1, 2021

Tinapos na ng mga senador ang interpellation sa panukalang naglalayong magtayo ng isang departamento na tutugon sa pangangailangan ng mahigit 10 milyong Pilipino na nasa ibang bansa, at malapit nang maaprubahan ng Senado ang bill na pinamamadali ng Malacañang. READ MORE

Villanueva: Bill creating DMWOF inches closer to Senate approval

October 1, 2021

Senators wrapped up Wednesday their interpellation on the bill creating a department to handle concerns of 10 million overseas Filipinos, bringing the measure closer to approval in the Senate. READ MORE

Villanueva pushes for bill granting additional benefits to healthcare workers

September 30, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva pushed the passage of a bill that would institutionalize additional benefits for health workers, saying action should speak louder than words in giving honor to those who put their lives on the line in the battle against COVID-19. READ MORE

Dagdag benepisyo para sa mga healthcare workers, isinusulong ni Villanueva

September 30, 2021

Isinusulong ni Senator Joel Villanueva ang pagpasa ng panukalang karagdagang benepisyo para sa mga healthcare workers, na inilarawan niya bilang malinaw na aksyon sa pagbibigay-pugay sa kanilang mga sakripsyo sa gitna ng COVID-19 pandemic. READ MORE

Villanueva rallies GAB to quash game-fixing in pro ranks; 'Integrity in pro sports means jobs for athletes, sector'

September 27, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva reiterated the importance of weeding out alleged game-fixing incidents in professional sports leagues, illustrating how integrity in sports could affect the lives of athletes and workers in the sports sector. READ MORE

Hazard pay at allowance para sa lahat ng healthcare workers, isinulong ni Villanueva

September 24, 2021

Isinusulong ni Senator Joel Villanueva ang pagbibigay ng hazard pay at allowance sa lahat healthcare workers na araw-araw humaharap sa peligro ng COVID-19 sa mga pribado at pampublikong pagamutan. READ MORE

Villanueva: Vaccine jabs sa mga manggagawa, susi sa panunumbalik ng trabaho at ekonomiya


September 23, 2021

Iginiit ni Senator Joel Villanueva ang kahalagahan ng pagbabakuna sa mga manggagawa upang mapadali ang muling pagbubukas ng ekonomiya at pagbabalik ng trabaho. READ MORE

Villanueva rallies public employment managers: Jabs, jobs go together

September 23, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva today called for the vaccination of all workers either by their employers or the government as the COVID-19 pandemic changed the dynamics of employment altogether. READ MORE

Villanueva bats for COVID hazard pays, risk allowance for all healthcare workers

September 23, 2021

All healthcare workers should all be given hazard pays and allowances for risking exposure to COVID-19 every day in private and public health institutions, Senator Joel Villanueva said today. READ MORE

Villanueva, hinikayat ang Senado na ipasa ang panukalang maglilinaw sa probisyon ng pagbubuwis sa mga paaralan sa ilalim ng CREATE law

September 22, 2021

Magsisilbing salbabida ng mga private educational institutions ang panukalang batas na maglilinaw sa probisyon ng pagbubuwis sa mga paaralan, na lubhang tinamaan ng pandemya, ayon kay Senator Joel Villanueva. READ MORE

Villanueva: Educational institutions suffering enough, must not be strangled with heavier taxes

September 22, 2021

Clarifying an otherwise ambiguous provision in the country’s tax code on private educational institutions will serve as a lifeline for thousands of schools forced to shutter or reduce operations at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Senator Joel Villanueva. READ MORE

Villanueva, pinuna ang PRC sa muling pagkansela sa LET; ‘Paano na makakahanap ng trabaho ang mga bagong teacher graduates?’

September 20, 2021

Pinuna ni Senator Joel Villanueva ang Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) sa muli nitong pagkansela sa nalalapit na Licensure Exam for Teachers (LET), pitong araw bago ang schedule nito sa Setyembre 26. READ MORE

Villanueva: Cancellation of Teachers’ Exams Shows PRC ‘Stuck in the Past’

September 20, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva today took to task the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) for failing to administer more than 80 licensure exams because it was “stuck in the past.” READ MORE

MANIFESTATION OF SENATOR JOEL VILLANUEVA, CHAIR OF THE SENATE LABOR COMMITTEE ON THE BOARD EXAM CANCELLATION ISSUES

September 20, 2021

Please allow me Mr. President to make a manifestation on the notorious postponement of various licensure examinations, particularly the Licensure Examination for Teachers or LET. READ MORE

Villanueva, hinimok ang Pharmally na patuyang binayaran nito ang mandated contributions ng kanilang empleyado

September 10, 2021

Hinimok ni Senator Joel Villanueva ang mga opisyal ng Pharmally Pharmaceutical Corp. na patunayang nagbayad sila ng mga mandatory contributions ng kanilang mga empleyado noong 2020, salungat sa mga regulatory reports na isinumite nila sa mga ahensya ng gobyerno. READ MORE

Villanueva challenges Pharmally execs to prove it paid gov’t-mandated contributions

September 10, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva challenged officials of Pharmally Pharmaceutical Corp. to present proof it paid mandatory contributions of its employees in 2020, contrary to regulatory reports it submitted to government agencies. READ MORE

Villanueva: P23B ang kailangan para doblehin ang SRA, hazard pay para sa 120,000 pribado, pampublikong health workers

September 9, 2021

Kung tunay na seryoso ang pamahalaan na ipagpatuloy ang pagbibigay ng Special Risk Allowance (SRA) at COVID-19 Active Duty Hazard Pay (AHDP) sa mga health workers sa susunod na taon, dapat na magpadala ito ng “budget errata” sa Kongreso na naglalaman ng kakailanganing halaga para maipasok ito sa 2022 national budget, ayon kay Senator Joel Villanueva. READ MORE

Villanueva: P23-B needed to double SRA, hazard pay for 120,000 private, public health workers

September 9, 2021

If government really intends to extend the grant of Special Risk Allowance (SRA) and COVID-19 Active Duty Hazard Pay (AHDP) to health workers next year, it should send to Congress a “budget errata” specifying the required amounts that will have to be included in the 2022 national budget, Senator Joel Villanueva said. READ MORE

Villanueva: Ituon ang 2022 national budget sa paglikha ng trabaho

September 9, 2021

Dahil sa patuloy na pagkawala ng trabaho dulot ng pandemya, hiniling si Senator Joel Villanueva sa gobyerno na ituon ang P5.02 trilyon na national budget sa susunod na taon sa paglikha ng maraming hanapbuhay. READ MORE

Villanueva: 2022 national budget should also focus on job creation

September 9, 2021

With the pandemic still battering the country’s employment numbers, Sen. Joel Villanueva called on the government to “wring out as many jobs as possible” from the next year’s P5.02 trillion national budget. READ MORE

Villanueva: Pinoy workers lost jobs, local manufacturers take a hit when PS-DBM picked foreign firm to supply gov’t PPE requirement

September 7, 2021

By choosing a foreign entity to provide for the government’s supply requirement of personal protective equipment, thousands of Filipino workers were left without jobs as appeals of local manufacturers to patronize locally-made PPEs fell on deaf ears, Senator Joel Villanueva lamented. READ MORE

Villanueva: Nawalan ng trabaho ang manggagawang Pilipino, sadsad ang operasyon ng lokal na manufacturers nang piliin ng PS-DBM ang banyagang kumpanya para sa PPE requirement ng gobyerno

September 7, 2021

Libu-libong manggagawang Pilipino ang nawalan ng trabaho at mga lokal na negosyo ang lubhang apektado sa pagpapasya ng gobyernong piliin ang isang dayuhang kumpanya para mag-supply ng personal protective equipment. READ MORE

Villanueva, hinimok ang PAGCOR, COA na pangalanan ang 15 delikwenteng POGO

September 7, 2021

Walang nakikitang dahilan si Senator Joel Villanueva kung bakit hindi dapat pangalanan ng COA at PAGCOR ang labinlimang Philippine offshore gaming operators o POGO na nag-iwan ng P1.365 bilyong utang sa gobyerno sa license fees.
 READ MORE

Villanueva calls on PAGCOR, COA to reveal identities of 15 delinquent POGOs

September 7, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva today said he sees no reason why the Commission of Audit (COA) or the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR) should withhold the names of the 15 Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) who owe the government some P1.365 billion in unpaid license fees. READ MORE

Villanueva, pinarangalan ang mga Olympic medalists na ginawaran ng Senate Medal of Excellence

September 6, 2021

Binigyan ng pagpupugay ni Senator Joel Villanueva ang mga kauna-unahang mga indibidwal na gagawaran ng Philippine Senate Medal of Excellence—mga Olympians na sina Hidilyn Diaz, Nesthy Petecio, Eumir Marcial and Carlo Paalam—at inilarawan sila bilang mga bayaning nagbigay ng tanglaw sa bansang binalot lagim ng pandemya. READ MORE

Villanueva: First recipients of Senate Medal of Excellence shone light during pandemic

September 6, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva extolled the first recipients of the Philippine Senate Medal of Excellence awards as heroes who shone light on the country in a time of pandemic gloom—Olympians Hidilyn Diaz, Nesthy Petecio, Eumir Marcial and Carlo Paalam. READ MORE

CO-SPONSORSHIP SPEECH of Senator Joel Villanueva for the first awardees of the Philippine Senate Medal of Excellence

September 6, 2021

Mr. President and distinguished colleagues:   Sa kauna-unahang pagkakataon mula taong 1916 o sa loob ng isandaan at limang taong pag-iral ng Senado ng Republika ng Pilipinas, ipagkakaloob ng ating dakilang institusyon ang Katibayan ng Kagalingan sa mga Katangi-tanging Pilipinong kasama at kapiling natin ngayong araw. READ MORE

Villanueva seeks Senate OK of Magna Carta of Seafarers, ‘a lifeboat of rights’ for .5-M seafarers

September 2, 2021

For helping keep the economy afloat with their P1 billion a day remittance, Filipino seafarers deserve a “lifeboat of rights and privileges," Senator Joel Villanueva said in sponsoring the proposed “Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers" bill on Wednesday afternoon. READ MORE

Villanueva: P15.1 B halaga ng DepEd modules ang penalty sa ating kakulangan sa digital infra, at sa pag-manage sa epekto ng pandemya sa mga mag-aaral

September 1, 2021

Aabot sa P15.1 billion ang halaga ng mga “sariling sikap” na learning modules sa mga public schools, isa sa pinakamalaking budget item sa ilalim ng proposed P629.8 billion obligation budget ng Department of Education sa susunod na taon, ayon kay Senator Joel Villanueva. READ MORE

Villanueva: P15.1 B cost of DepEd modules is ‘our penalty for poor digital infra, failure to rein in pandemic’

September 1, 2021

The “sariling sikap” production of learning modules by public schools will cost at least P15.1 billion next year, one of the biggest items in the Department of Education’s proposed P629.8 billion obligation budget for 2022, Senator Joel Villanueva said. READ MORE

SPONSORSHIP SPEECH of Senator Joel Villanueva on the bill establishing a Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers

September 1, 2021

Mr. President and distinguished colleagues:

I am greatly honored to sponsor a bill that will benefit more than one million Filipino seafarers and the domestic and global maritime industries. Parte po ito ng ating adbokasiya sa Senado na palawigin ang pagbibigay ng mabisa at agarang proteksyon sa ating mga kababayang Overseas Filipino Workers. READ MORE

Villanueva urges dialogue between gov’t, health workers’ groups to expedite payout of benefits, avert disruptions

August 30, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva has urged the government to promptly hold a top-level dialogue with the health workers’ groups in recognition of their services as front liners in saving lives in these critical times. READ MORE

Villanueva looks at increase in allocation for bigger SRA, hazard pay of healthcare workers in 2022 budget

August 30, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva said funds for the two special pay allowances for medical front liners should be “rolled over” in next year’s national budget. READ MORE

Villanueva, hiniling ang mas malaking allowance at hazard pay para sa healthcare workers sa 2022 budget

August 30, 2021

Nanawagan si Senator Joel Villanueva na palawigin pa sa susunod na taon ang pagbibigay ng dalawang special allowances para sa mga medical frontliners ng bansa sa ilalim ng 2022 national budget. READ MORE

Villanueva: Halt big-ticket gov't procurement thru PS-DBM until agency cleared of corruption allegations

August 29, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva said government agencies should temporarily stop using the Procurement Service of the Department of Budget and Management (PS-DBM) as their buying arm for big-ticket projects until the agency has been reformed and cleared of controversies. READ MORE

Villanueva: Audit findings into DOH casts doubt on its ability to respond to pandemic

August 27, 2021

With deliberations into the next year's national budget underway, Senator Joel Villanueva reiterated the importance of budget utilization, pointing out the audit findings into the Department of Health (DOH) places a lot of uncertainty on its ability to mitigate the health impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the country. READ MORE

OPENING REMARKS of Senator Joel Villanueva on the Blue Ribbon Committee hearing into the audit findings of the Department of Health

August 27, 2021

Mr. Chairman, my distinguished colleagues: As we are on our 3rd Blue Ribbon Committee hearing, we want to remind the Department of Health of one of its mandates under Executive Order No. 102, to "assume leadership in health in times of emergencies, calamities, and disasters." READ MORE

Villanueva, nanawagang itaas ang pondong nakalaan sa pagtulong sa distressed overseas Filipinos sa 2022 national budget

August 25, 2021

Umaapela si Senator Joel Villanueva na dagdagan pa ang pondong nakalaan sa national budget sa 2022 bilang pagpapakita kung gaano kahalaga ang mga overseas Filipinos sa ating gobyerno. READ MORE

Villanueva: Increase 2022 aid fund to distressed overseas Pinoys

August 25, 2021

The fund intended for helping Filipinos overseas, including over 10 million overseas Filipinos, in the 2022 national budget should be augmented to reflect how the government values the welfare of overseas Filipinos, Senator Joel Villanueva said today. READ MORE

SENATOR JOEL VILLANUEVA'S MANIFESTATION ON THE CELEBRATION OF THE NATIONAL TECH-VOC DAY

August 25, 2021

Mr. President and distinguished colleagues: Let me be the first one to greet you all with a Happy National Tech-Voc Day! This year is the 4th year we celebrate this Special Working Holiday since we legislated Republic Act No. 10970 in 2017. READ MORE

Villanueva: Senate rushing bill protecting freelancers, gig economy workers from abuse, exploitation

August 24, 2021

The Senate is rushing legislation that will put a “mantle of protection” over some 1.5 million freelancers and gig economy workers whose numbers ballooned during the pandemic. READ MORE

OPENING REMARKS of Senator Joel Villanueva at the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee meeting on the COA reports on the Department of Health

August 18, 2021

Thank you, Mr Chairman. I'm glad to see you up and about. Let me first of all congratulate you for calling this very important meeting. Let me stress and emphasize what you mentioned about the importance of testing and contact tracing because, your honor, it is still our weakest link at this point in time. READ MORE

Villanueva, umapela sa gobyerno: Magsagawa ng skills inventory ng repatriated overseas Pinoys, ipagtugma sa kasalukuyang demand ng labor market

August 13, 2021

Nanawagan si Senator Joel Villanueva sa gobyerno na mag-imbentaryo ng kasanayan ng libu-libong mga overseas Filipinos na pinauuwi bunsod ng pandemya, at ipagtugma ang mga ito sa kasalukuyang demand sa labor market. READ MORE

Villanueva: DOH needs to unclog its chokepoints in procurement, supply chain

August 11, 2021

The health department should identify and address its procurement and supply chain chokepoints that seem to be the subject of the latest COA findings of “deficiencies” in the management of some P67 billion in COVID-19 funds in 2020, Senator Joel Villanueva said. READ MORE

Statement of Senator Joel Villanueva on the Closing Ceremonies of the Tokyo 2020 Summer Games

August 8, 2021

Hindi lang po medalya ang nakamit ng ating Philippine Olympic team sa Tokyo 2020 Summer Games. Nagbigay din po sila ng saya at pag-asa, at habambuhay nakaukit na sila sa kasaysayan bilang winningest Olympic contingent ng ating bayan. READ MORE

Villanueva: Pagkakaroon ng 24/7 global emergency helpline, kasama sa panukala para sa DMWOF

August 7, 2021

Isa sa mga mandato ng panukalang pagtatayo ng Department of Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos (DMWOF) ay ang pagkakaroon ng isang “global 911” na tutugon sa mga pangangailangan ng mga Pilipino sa ibang bansa anumang oras, lalo na sa panahon ng emergency, ayon kay Senator Joel Villanueva. READ MORE

Villanueva: 24/7 global emergency helpline a key feature of DMWOF bill

August 7, 2021

One of the urgent mandates of the proposed Department of Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos (DMWOF) is the establishment of a “global 911” system, which Filipinos in need of help abroad can access “anytime, anywhere,” Senator Joel Villanueva said. READ MORE

Villanueva: Pag-export ng labor, hindi magiging polisiya ng bansa sa patatatag ng kagawaran para sa migrant workers, overseas Filipinos

August 5, 2021

Hindi magiging polisiya ng bansa ang pag-export ng labor sa ibang bansa sakaling maging batas ang pagtatayo ng isang Department of Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos o DMWOF dahil isa sa layunin nito ang paglikha ng trabaho sa loob ng bansa, ayon kay Senator Joel Villanueva. READ MORE

Villanueva: Labor export won't be PH policy with DMWOF; Proposed department has sunset provision

August 5, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva today said the proposed Department of Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos (DMWOF), which he is sponsoring on the Senate floor, will push for job creation in the country so that overseas employment will just be a choice in explaining the provision to abolished the department in 10 years. READ MORE

Villanueva: Use TUPAD to assemble contact tracer ‘Delta Force’ vs Delta variant

August 4, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva has appealed to the government to utilize the P19-billion DOLE-managed employment assistance fund to finance the additional manpower to expand its contact tracing efforts as COVID cases steadily rise. READ MORE

Villanueva: TUPAD program, gamitin sa pagbuo ng ‘Delta Force’ ng contact tracers vs Delta variant ng COVID-19

August 4, 2021

Umapela si Sen. Joel Villanueva sa gobyerno na gamitin ang P19 bilyon na employment assistance fund na nasa ilalim ng pangangalaga ng DOLE para pondohan ang karagdagang tao para sa contract tracing sa paglobo ng kaso ng COVID-19 sa bansa. READ MORE

Villanueva, umaapela sa pagbahagi ng ayuda sa mga lugar sa ilalim ng ECQ

August 3, 2021

Umapela si Senator Joel Villanueva sa gobyerno na magbahagi ng ayuda sa mga residente ng lugar na sasailalim sa enhanced community quarantine, o tinaguriang “hard lockdown,” maliban sa Metro Manila. READ MORE

Villanueva: Hand out ayuda for all areas under ECQ

August 3, 2021

The government should study the grant of ayuda to residents of cities outside Metro Manila that are under hard lockdown to stop cases of the highly transmissible Delta COVID-19 variant from exploding, according to Senator Joel Villanueva. READ MORE

Villanueva: Tax freeze sa mga pribadong paaralan, gawing permanente

July 29, 2021

Ngayong pansamantalang itinigil ang pagpapatupad ng isang regulasyon ng BIR na nagtataas ng buwis sa mga pribadong paaralan sa halip na mapababa ito sa panahon ng pandemya, iginiit naman ni Senator Joel Villanueva ang kahalagahan na gawin itong permanente sa pamamagitan ng pag-amyenda ng batas. READ MORE

SPONSORSHIP SPEECH: Senate Resolution No. 760 expressing the profoundsympathy and sincere condolences of the Senate on the death of the former President Benigno Simeon Cojuanco Aquino III

July 27, 2021

It is my honor to sponsor Senate Resolution No. 760 expressing the profound sympathy and sincere condolences of the Senate on the death of the former President Benigno Simeon Cojuanco Aquino III. READ MORE

Villanueva rallies support to make temporary tax freeze on private schools permanent

July 26, 2021

Now that a temporary freeze has been imposed on the implementation of a BIR regulation erroneously increasing taxes on private schools instead of reducing them, Senator Joel Villanueva reiterated the importance of making the provisional stay permanent by amending the law. READ MORE

Statement of Senator Joel Villanueva on weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz's victory and the country's first Olympic gold medal

July 26, 2021

Literal na binuhat ni Hidilyn Diaz ang sambayanang Pilipino ngayong gabi, sa bigat na 127kgs. Sa isang iglap, napawi ang matagal na uhaw ng ating bayan sa mailap na Olympic Gold Medal. READ MORE

Villanueva urges IATF: Bring vaccination drive to displaced people at evacuation centers

July 25, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva is urging the government to bring the vaccination drive to displaced people in temporary shelters so these evacuation sites will not become “COVID-19 super-spreader places.” READ MORE

Villanueva, hinikayat ang IATF na magbakuna sa mga bakwit sa evacuation centers

July 25, 2021

Hinikayat ni Senator Joel Villanueva ang gobyerno na magsagawa ng pagbabakuna sa mga kababayan nating nasa mga evacuation center upang maiwasan ang pagkakaroon ng “COVID-19 super-spreader event” sa mga naturang lugar. READ MORE

SPONSOR'S RESOLUTION Honoring Hidilyn Dia Diaz

July 25, 2021

It is my honor to sponsor Senate resolution no. 804, filed by this representation and let me take this opportunity to join my distinguished colleagues in this august chamber in recognizing and commending Ms. Hidilyn Diaz for winning the gold medal in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics weight lifting competition. READ MORE

Villanueva, umapela para sa mass transport plan ngayong panahon ng bagyo laban sa Delta variant surge

July 24, 2021

Mga manggagawang wala pang bakuna na nagsisiksikan sa mga bus at jeepney sa panahon ng ulan at bagyo ang maaaring magdulot ng pagtaas sa bilang ng mga kaso ng Delta variant ng COVID-19. READ MORE

Villanueva calls for mass transport plan for typhoon months vs Delta variant surge

July 24, 2021

Unvaccinated workers in crammed buses during commutes made longer and harder by rains make up the “perfect storm” that could drive Delta variant COVID-19 cases up, Senator Joel Villanueva warned today. READ MORE

Villanueva: Shore up ranks of health frontliners as Delta variant looms in PH

July 23, 2021

With the full brunt of COVID-19’s Delta variant looming on the horizon and the virus spinning more dangerous mutations, Senator Joel Villanueva is calling on the government to step up its hiring of health personnel, beginning with the 5,008 nurses who hurdled the recent board exams. READ MORE

Villanueva: Palakasin, paramihin pa ang health frontliners sa bansa laban sa Delta variant

July 23, 2021

Sa unti-unting pagdami ng kaso ng Delta variant ng COVID-19 sa bansa, nanawagan si Sen. Joel Villanueva sa gobyerno na palakasin ang recruitment ng health workers na maaari simulan sa 5,008 na bagong nurse sa nakalipas na board exams. READ MORE

Villanueva: ‘Food riders on starvation pay' stress need for laws to protect freelancers

July 22, 2021

While negotiations are ongoing between the government and pharmaceutical firms who intend to supply COVID-19 vaccine for the country’s inoculation program... READ MORE

Villanueva: Food delivery riders na kakarampot ang kita, kailangan ng proteksyon sa ilalim ng batas

July 22, 2021

Inilarawan ni Senator Joel Villanueva bilang “essential frontliners” ang mga food couriers na malaki ang naitulong sa paghahatid ng serbisyo sa mga mamamayan, at isang malaking kabalintunaan kung sila ay “hahayaang mamuhay sa kakarampot na kita” kapalit ng kanilang sakripisyo. READ MORE

Villanueva: Woes of foodpanda riders highlight need to institute protections for freelance workers

July 19, 2021

The plight of riders of a food delivery service is a “labor dispute waiting to happen” that could be put to an end when rights of freelance workers are recognized under the law, according to Senator Joel Villanueva. READ MORE

Villanueva: Aksyon sa pagtataguyod ng karapatan ng freelance workers, solusyon sa gipit na foodpanda riders

July 19, 2021

Tila isang “nagbabadyang labor dispute” ang sitwasyon ng mga rider ng food delivery service app, na kayang wakasan kapag kinikilala na sa mata ng batas ang mga karapatan ng freelance workers, ayon kay Senator Joel Villanueva. READ MORE

Statement of Senator Joel Villanueva on the reported dumping of waste by Chinese vessels at the West Philippine Sea

July 14, 2021

It is sad, but not unexpected, that a country would treat as waste paper a court decision on our waters where its ships now dump their wastes on. READ MORE

Villanueva: Troll farms peddle 'fatal' misinformation

July 12, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva joined calls for the Upper Chamber to investigate allegations of public funds financing “troll” farms which were reportedly established to sow misinformation in time for the coming elections in 2022. READ MORE

Villanueva, sumama sa panawagang imbestigahan ang diumano’y paggamit sa pondo ng taumbayan para sa troll farms

July 12, 2021

Nanawagan si Senator Joel Villanueva na imbestigahan ng Senado ang diumano’y paggamit ng pondo ng gobyerno para sa mga “troll” farms na itinatag para magkalat ng maling impormasyon para sa nalalapit na halalan sa susunod na taon. READ MORE

Villanueva: Pinoy professionals won't make it to local, int'l job markets without board exams

July 8, 2021

The country’s professional licensure system should remain, despite the struggles of the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) to hold these certification tests the past year due to the pandemic because such assessments boost the credibility of Filipino professionals here and around the world, Senator Joel Villanueva said. READ MORE

Villanueva: Pinoy professionals, mahihirapan makakuha ng trabaho sa lokal at internasyonal na job markets kung bubuwagin ang board exams

July 8, 2021

Nanindigan si Senator Joel Villanueva sa pagpapanatili ng professional licensure system ng bansa kahit na nahihirapan ang Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) na isagawa ang mga board exams noong nakalipas na bunsod sa pandemya dahil ang mga pagsusulit na ito ang nagpapalakas ng kredibilidad ng mga Filipino professionals dito at sa buong mundo. READ MORE

Villanueva: Maayos na kooperasyon sa mga ahensya ng gobyerno, susi sa pagreporma sa sistema ng edukasyon

July 6, 2021

Hinimok ni Senator Joel Villanueva na magkaroon ng mas masinop na kooperasyon sa mga ahensya ng edukasyon upang magkaroon ng mas malakas at iisang pagresolba sa krisis ng edukasyon na lubhang naapektuhan ng pandemya. READ MORE

As Senate body looks at amending CHED charter, Villanueva bats for better ‘teamwork’ among education agencies

July 6, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva is urging closer collaboration among agencies involved in education so that the government “will have a stronger and unified approach in addressing an education crisis worsened by the pandemic.” READ MORE

Villanueva: Taal eruption could disrupt vaccine supply arrivals, economy

July 2, 2021

The government should brace for any impact brought about by Taal Volcano’s eruption as the unrest could trigger several events “from a NAIA closure that will delay vaccine shipments, to factories in the country’s manufacturing belt suspending work,” Senator Joel Villanueva said today. READ MORE

Villanueva: Pag-aalboroto ng Taal, makakaapekto sa flights, pagdating ng bakuna, ekonomiya

July 2, 2021

Ibayong paghahanda ang inaasahan sa gobyerno sa pag-aalboroto ng Bulkang Taal na makakaapekto ito sa samu't saring bagay, mula sa pagsasara ng paliparan sa NAIA na makakaabala sa pagdating ng bakuna, sa pagsasara ng mga pabrika sa karatig lugar, ayon kay Senator Joel Villanueva. READ MORE

Villanueva, hinimok ang gobyerno na magtulungan para mapatupad ang employment recovery plan

June 30, 2021

Mainit na sinalubong ni Senator Joel Villanueva ang pagpapatupad ng National Employment Recovery Strategy (NERS) na layuning makagawa ng karagdagang trabaho sa bansa, ngunit kailangan itong tutukan upang siguruhing matutupad ito. READ MORE

Villanueva: Hard work of creating jobs lies ahead as gov’t unveils employment recovery plan

June 30, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva welcomed Malacanang’s unveiling of its jobs plan, but said hard work lies ahead in translating a “Powerpoint presentation into paychecks.” READ MORE

Villanueva: Workers must be the centerpiece of economic recovery

June 28, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva underscored the importance of ensuring the welfare of workers affected by the pandemic as the Senate labor committee started deliberations Monday into several proposed measures. READ MORE

Villanueva: Defining legal bounds of arming anti-crime civilians the ‘real challenge’

June 28, 2021

Framing the proper protocol and defining the legal bounds on rules of engagement are just some of the difficulties Sen. Joel Villanueva sees if the government adopts a proposal to arm anti-crime civilian groups. READ MORE

OPENING REMARKS

June 28, 2021

The bills under consideration today cover wide-ranging topics: from media and film workers’ welfare, service incentive leaves, skillled workers registry, to discrimination against women in the workplaces. READ MORE

Statement of Senator Joel Villanueva on the passing of President Benigno Simeon “Noynoy” C. Aquino III

June 24, 2021

I am still shattered in a million pieces. The nation lost a leader, and I, a friend.  But he was more than that. He was a mentor, a brother to me. READ MORE

Villanueva welcomes vaccination of seafarers in Manila; says jab to rejuvenate PH seafaring industry

June 17, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva underscored the importance of vaccinating Filipino seafarers, saying the start of their inoculation on Thursday would allow them to return on ships onboard and resume their livelihood severely disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. READ MORE

Villanueva urges CHED, DOH to fast track implementation of ‘Doktor Para sa Bayan’ Law

June 17, 2021

Recruiting medical scholars should be as funded and as focused as government preparations for the May 2022 elections, Senator Joel Villanueva said, adding that “future physicians are the most important hire the government should make at this time.”   READ MORE

Villanueva: Pagbabakuna sa mga seafarers, daan tungo sa panunumbalik ng sigla ng PH seafaring industry

June 17, 2021

Iginiit ni Senator Joel Villanueva ang kahalagahan ng pagbabakuna sa mga Pilipinong seafarers, dahil dito nakasalalay ang kanilang pagbabalik sa barko at ipagpatuloy ang kanilang trabahong naantala dahil sa COVID-19 pandemic. READ MORE

Villanueva seeks gov’t contingency plans for vaccination price fluctuations

June 15, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva today proposed developing contingency plans in the near term for price fluctuations of vaccines amid a report that some vaccine manufacturers intend to hike prices of COVID-19 jabs. READ MORE

Villanueva seeks clearer policy covering on proof of vaccination for fully-inoculated Filipinos, OFWs

June 15, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva today sought clarification from officials involved in pandemic response on what he said was a “confusing” policy that would require those fully-vaccinated Filipinos to produce two sets of proof—a vaccine card and certification issued by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) or the Local Health Officer. READ MORE

Malinaw na panuntunan sa ‘proof of vaccination’ para sa mga Pinoy at OFW, hiniling ni Villanueva

June 15, 2021

Hiniling ni Senator Joel Villanueva na linawin ng gobyerno ang tila nakakalitong panuntunan nito pagdating sa “proof of vaccination” na hihingin sa mga Pilipinong nabakunahan na, lalo na sa mga OFWs. READ MORE

Villanueva seeks transparency on vaccine procurement as Senate convenes Committee of the Whole for oversight hearing

June 14, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva sought more transparency from the government particularly on the details on vaccine procurement such as “the price per dose and how much the minimum 140 million doses would cost.” READ MORE

Transparency sa pag-angkat ng bakuna, hiniling ni Villanueva

June 14, 2021

Hiniling ni Senator Joel Villanueva sa gobyerno na mas maging bukas ito sa publiko tungkol mga detalye sa pag-angkat at pagbili ng bakuna, lalo na sa presyo nito kada turok at kung magkano ang magagastos sa pag-angkat ng minimum na 140 milyong bakuna. READ MORE

Villanueva: Gov't to save billions if Cebu's 'sensible but science-based' swab policy is nat'l norm

June 10, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva has thrown support to Cebu’s “swab-upon-arrival” policy, saying the “sensible, but science-based” way of screening travelers for coronavirus is “low-cost but highly-effective.” READ MORE

Villanueva: Bilyong piso ang matitipid kung ipapatupad ang Cebu ‘swab-upon-arrival’ policy sa buong bansa

June 10, 2021

Sinuportahan ni Senator Joel Villanueva ang “swab-upon-arrival” na polisiya ng Cebu sa mga dumadating sa international airports nito dahil hindi lamang “sensible” at “science-based” ang patakarang ito, kundi matipid na rin at epektibo sa pag-screen ng mga pasahero sa COVID-19. READ MORE

Villanueva: Keep tabs on A4 vaccinations; it is a ‘key economic recovery indicator’

June 8, 2021

As the government ramps up vaccination of essential workers, Senator Joel Villanueva calls on the IATF to continue keeping a separate scoresheet for vaccines administered to a sector that is key to our economic recovery.  READ MORE

After nurses’ memo, Villanueva appeals to Palace to grant them salary grade promotion, 'step increase,' back pay

June 8, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva today hailed Malacañang’s reversal of a DBM circular demoting many public nurses in rank and pay “as a justice done to these brave frontliners who are working tirelessly during the pandemic.” READ MORE

Villanueva: ‘Scoreboard’ sa bakuna ng essential workers, economic frontliners, indikasyon ng pagbangon ng ekonomiya

June 7, 2021

Sa pagpapatuloy ng pagbabakuna ng mga kabilang sa A4 priority list, nanawagan si Sen. Joel Villanueva sa IATF na magkaroon ng hiwalay na “scoresheet” ang mga ito dahil ang bilang ng nabakunahan na essential workers at economic frontliners ay mahalagang palatandaan ng pagbangon ng ekonomiya. READ MORE

Villanueva, nagpaabot ng pagbati sa pagkapanalo ni Yuka Saso sa US Women's Open

June 7, 2021

Pinuri ni Senator Joel Villanueva si Yuka Saso sa kanyang pagkapanalo sa 76th U.S. Women’s Open golf championship na ginawa sa Olympic Club sa San Francisco. READ MORE

Statement of Senator Joel Villanueva on the victory of Bulakenya Yuka Saso at the US Women's Open

June 7, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva today congratulated Yuka Saso for her win at the 76th U.S. Women’s Open golf championship at the Olympic Club in San Francisco on Sunday, saying the fellow “Bulakenyo” has not only earned the country honor, but also provided Filipinos the much-needed inspiration during a very difficult time. READ MORE

Villanueva to BIR: Revoke IRR increasing taxes for schools

June 3, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva called on the Bureau of Internal Revenue to recall Revenue Regulation 5-2021 (RR 5-2021) that imposes a tax rate of 25% on private schools – a big jump from the previous 10% - because it is was based on an erroneous interpretation of a newly enacted law. READ MORE

THIRD READING MANIFESTATION on the Inclusive Education Act

May 31, 2021

Mr. President, we want to congratulate our colleague and seatmate from Valenzuela and the Chairman of the Committee on Basic Education for the passage on third reading of yet another major legislation on basic education, “Instituting Services and Programs for Learners with Disabilities in Support of Inclusive Education Act” READ MORE

Villanueva welcomes vaccination roll out for economic frontliners in June

May 29, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva thanked the government for heeding his call to expand the A4 vaccination priority list to include economic frontliners, who are set to be vaccinated in June. READ MORE

Villanueva calls on oversight committee on COVID-19 Vaccination Program Act to convene, assess progress on 100th day of vaccination

May 29, 2021

Three months since the COVID-19 vaccination program began, Sen. Joel Villanueva is calling on the Joint Congressional Oversight Committee created by law to assess if the country “is time on target” in its goal to inoculate 70 million Filipinos by year’s end. READ MORE

Villanueva urges govt to aid Cebu-bound OFWs, travelers as flight diversions to Manila from Cebu spark disruptions

May 28, 2021

The Inter-Agency Task Force on the COVID-19 pandemic should mobilize all resources to ease the pain of the thousands of Cebu-bound OFWs and other travelers whose flights from abroad will be diverted to Manila upon the government's order. READ MORE

Villanueva: Law deferring SSS contribution increase provides respite for pandemic-hit workers

May 28, 2021

Under Republic Act No. 11548, the President, upon the recommendation of the Social Security Commission, has the power to suspend the 1 percentage point increase on SSS membership contribution that was scheduled to take effect January 1, 2021. READ MORE

Villanueva, hinikayat ang gobyerno na tulungan ang mga OFWs, pasaherong apektado ng flight diversion mula Cebu

May 28, 2021

Hinimok ni Sen. Joel Villanueva ang Inter-Agency Task Force kontra COVID-19 na tulungan ang libo-libong OFWs at pasaherong papunta ng Cebu mula abroad na apektado sa flight diversion sa utos gobyerno. READ MORE

Villanueva: Batas na nagpapaliban sa taas-singil sa SSS contributions, malaking ginhawa sa mga manggagawang hirap sa pandemya

May 28, 2021

Magandang balita para sa mga manggagawa ang kapipirma pa lamang na batas ng Malacañang kung saan isinasabatas ang panukalang magbibigay sa Pangulo ng kapangyarihang ipagpaliban muna ang singil sa dagdag na SSS contribution habang may pandemya pa. READ MORE

Statement of Senator Joel Villanueva on the passage of 3rd and Final Reading the Special Protections against Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation Law (Anti-OSAEC law)

May 27, 2021

Now and more than ever, we need to take back cyberspace and make it safe for our children. READ MORE

Villanueva: Proposed department for migrant workers, overseas Filipinos seeks to cure 6Rs hounding OFWs

May 26, 2021

The proposed department for migrant workers and overseas Filipinos must be given enough manpower and resources so it could address the “six Rs” Filipinos who have left their homeland to work have to grapple with. READ MORE

Villanueva: Proposed Dept of Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos to address plight of migrant workers, overseas Filipinos

May 25, 2021

As coordination between agencies servicing millions of Filipinos overseas remain a tall order, the proposed Department of Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos (DMWOF) hopes to optimize government service to Filipinos abroad. READ MORE

Villanueva, inihain sa plenaryo ang panukalang Department of Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos

May 25, 2021

Sa ilalim ng panukalang pagtatatag ng Department of Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos (DMWOF), layunin itong pag-ibayuhin ang mga serbisyo ng gobyerno sa mga Pilipino sa ibang bansa. READ MORE

Villanueva: Doubling vaccination rate seen to cut PH joblessness rate

May 25, 2021

Easing the joblessness rate hinges on the government’s doubling its present vaccination rate of 162,513, which is the recent seven-day average. READ MORE

SPONSORSHIP SPEECH on Department of Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos

May 25, 2021

It is an honor to be given this privilege to sponsor a bill that has become a center of the nation’s attention over the past couple of months, a piece of legislation that will chart the future of the global Filipino. READ MORE

Villanueva musters support for DOFIL bill as labor committee chair looks at sponsoring measure this week

May 24, 2021

The bill creating the Department of Overseas Filipinos is set to be sponsored within the next session days this week as Senator Joel Villanueva mustered support from lawmakers on Monday morning regarding the consolidated measure. READ MORE

Villanueva: DOH should adopt an ‘educate before you inoculate’ policy

May 20, 2021

The Department of Health should embark on an extensive education drive to inform the populace of the importance of getting vaccinated, no matter the brand. READ MORE

Tulong Trabaho Law

May 19, 2021

REPUBLIC ACT No. 11230 An Act Instituting a Philippine Labor Force Competencies Competitiveness Program and Free Access to Technical-Vocational Education and Training (TVET), and Appropriating Funds Therefor READ MORE

Villanueva: Improving quality of teachers is key for 'Generation Quarantine' to reverse pandemic damage on education

May 19, 2021

Improving teacher education, skills, and proficiency is a must for the Philippines to navigate a changed and challenging post COVID-19 world. READ MORE

CO-SPONSORSHIP SPEECH on Strengthening the Teachers Education Council

May 17, 2021

An Act Enhancing the Quality of Basic Education in the Philippines by Improving the Quality of Teachers and School Leaders, Strengthening the Teacher Education Council Under Republic Act No. 7784, Entitled "An Act to Strengthen Teacher Education in the Philippines by Establishing Centers of Excellence, Creating a Teacher Education Council for the Purpose, Appropriating Funds Therefor, and for Other Purposes", Institutionalizing the National Educators Academy of the Philippines, Appropriating Funds Therefor, and for Other Purposes READ MORE

Villanueva, nanawagang gamitin ang bilyon-bilyong calamity fund na hindi nagastos para ipagawa ang nasunog na PGH

May 16, 2021

Ipinanawagan ni Senator Joel Villanueva sa mga awtoridad na gamitin ang P19.445 bilyon na Calamity Fund ng taong 2020 at 2021 na hindi pa nagagastos upang masimulan ang paggawa sa mga bahagi ng Philippine General Hospital na nasunog nitong Linggo ng madaling araw. READ MORE

Villanueva appeals to govt: Use unspent calamity funds to repair fire-hit PGH

May 16, 2021

The unused calamity funds could be used to jumpstart the efforts to “building back a better and bigger PGH.” READ MORE

Villanueva urges IATF to put up drive-thru or mega vaccination site for delivery riders, couriers

May 15, 2021

Delivery riders deserve to be “rewarded and protected for unselfishly serving as the lifeline to the outside world by people locked down in their homes and communities.” READ MORE

Villanueva: Drive-thru, home delivery, workplace, open churches, village-organized vaccinations key to more jabs

May 13, 2021

He also urged the IATF to act on the clamor of some private hospitals to participate in mass vaccinations. "We need all hands on deck. The more sites, the better." READ MORE

Villanueva: ‘State of calamity’ declaration vs ASF a big win for hard-hit local hog industry

May 11, 2021

The DA should now regularly update the public on what interventions are being done pursuant to this declaration. If the local hog industry were a patient in the ICU, it is then the duty of the DA to display the patient’s chart so the country would know if progress is being made and recovery is underway. READ MORE

Villanueva: DOFIL to help OFWs succeed in post-pandemic world

May 10, 2021

While negotiations are ongoing between the government and pharmaceutical firms who intend to supply COVID-19 vaccine for the country’s inoculation program... READ MORE

Strengthening the OWWA to help OFWs in reintegrating back to the country

May 10, 2021

Your committee wants to make sure that DOFIL will work now and in the post-COVID-19 world which, as many experts describe, “will be less open, less free, less prosperous, and more competitive." READ MORE

Villanueva: Encourage, not require, vaccination of OFWs in HK

May 5, 2021

But no matter how the vaccination is carried out, “mass education should precede mass vaccination,” Senator Joel Villanueva said. READ MORE

Villanueva: Sustain one-strike policy in BI, regular updating of case database to curb human trafficking

May 4, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva urged the Bureau of Immigration (BI) to sustain its “one-strike” policy against immigration officers and personnel involved in the trafficking of Filipinos, especially women, to foreign countries. READ MORE

Villanueva: With COVID-19 classified as workplace-illness, sick workers can run to govt for financial relief through ECC

May 3, 2021

Given the high risk of workers getting infected with the virus at the workplace, Senator Joel Villanueva said the policy would further convince COVID-stricken or asymptomatic workers to stay at home since there would be support coming from the government. READ MORE

Villanueva: Workers, small biz owners stand to benefit from proposed P8,000 wage subsidy program

May 2, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva expressed support to the proposed P8,000-wage subsidy program for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to help business owners retain their workers while economic activity gradually restarts with the easing of quarantine measures nationwide. READ MORE

Villanueva: ‘Worst-hit’ Filipino workers should be ‘biggest winner’ in gov’t recovery programs

April 30, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva today declared that the survival of the country’s economy greatly hinges on Filipino workers bouncing back from the ill effects of the pandemic with more government aid, more vaccines and more skills to cope with the “new normal.” READ MORE

Villanueva: Manggagawang Pilipino, dapat ‘biggest winner’ sa recovery programs ng gobyerno

April 30, 2021

Mabilis na makakabangon ang bansa sa kinasasadlakan nitong kahirapan dulot ng pandemya kapag tutugunan ng pamahalaan ang lahat ng pangangailangan ng manggagawang Pilipino, lalo na sa aspeto ng ayuda at bakuna, kasama na ang mga pagsasanay para sumabak sa “new normal.” READ MORE

Villanueva: Planong bakuna sa manggagawa ngayong Labor Day, ituloy-tuloy na!

April 29, 2021

“Hindi lang sa araw ng Mayo Uno, kung hindi dapat tuloy-tuloy na ang bakuna para sa ating mga manggagawa.” READ MORE

Villanueva: Labor Day jabbing of economic frontliners should kickstart massive vaccination drive for workers

April 29, 2021

The government’s plan to vaccinate a select group of workers on Labor Day “should go beyond the symbolic to something that is sustained,” according to Senator Joel Villanueva. READ MORE

Villanueva to DA: Aid to local hog farmers must arrive ahead of pork imports

April 28, 2021

Government assistance to devastated local pig farms must arrive ahead of pork imports, Senator Joel Villanueva said in warning agriculture officials that “farmers will feel betrayed if imports will flood the market, while aid to them will come in trickles.” READ MORE

Villanueva sa DA: Dapat mauna ang tulong sa lokal na magbababoy bago pork imports

April 28, 2021

“Bumabaha ng pork imports sa bansa, pero ga-patak naman ang tulong at ayuda sa ating mga magbababoy.” READ MORE

Villanueva: Isama ang healthcare workers sa Labor Day package para sa mga manggagawa

April 28, 2021

Kung anuman ang ihahayag ng Palasyo na karagdagang benepisyo para sa mga manggagawa nitong darating na Araw ng Paggawa, hindi umano dapat mawala sa mabibigyan ang libo-libong health frontliners ng bansa na patuloy na nagsasakripisyo upang labanan ang rumaragasang pandemya. READ MORE

Villanueva: Include perks for healthcare frontliners in govt's Labor Day package of benefits for workers

April 28, 2021

Whatever benefits for workers that the government would unveil on Labor Day, it should specifically include a package for healthcare workers, Senator Joel Villanueva stressed. READ MORE

Statement of Senator Joel Villanueva on China's call for the Philippines to stop maritime exercises in disputed territories

April 28, 2021

The intention is to patrol our seas, which involves a few civilian ships, less than 10, and not an armed floating militia numbering hundreds of vessels. READ MORE

Statement of Senator Joel Villanueva on the number of COVID-19 cases breaching the 1 million mark

April 26, 2021

The 1 million Filipinos infected by COVID-19 were only those who had been tested. The actual figure could be higher, or by one study, even five times more. READ MORE

Statement of Senator Joel Villanueva on the filing of Senate Resolution No. 707

April 26, 2021

We filed this resolution today to hold NTF-ELCAC accountable for its operations, including the baseless red tagging of community pantries and certain individuals. It is our responsibility as legislators to ensure that government programs do not harm the people we serve. READ MORE

Villanueva: house-to-house o drive-thru ‘bakunahan’ kontra COVID-19 para sa mga senior citizens

April 23, 2021

Iminungkahi ni Sen. Joel Villanueva sa gobyerno na dagdagan pa nito ang proteksyon sa lahat ng senior citizens sa bansa sa pamamagitan ng pagbabahay-bahay ng bakuna kontra COVID-19 sa kanila o sa pamamagitan ng pagtatalaga ng mga “drive-thru centers.” READ MORE

Villanueva: Don’t burden workers with PNP clearance to transact with DOLE

April 23, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva voiced opposition to the Philippine National Police (PNP) proposal to require workers to first present police clearance when transacting with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), saying it was like a “gate pass.” READ MORE

Villanueva: Bring vaccine jabs closer to seniors; consider house-to-house vaccination, ‘drive-thru’ centers

April 23, 2021

The government should consider piloting two new modes of vaccinating senior citizens, at home and drive-thru, which Senator Joel Villanueva said are the safest and the most convenient for the group most at-risk to COVID-19. READ MORE

Statement of Senator Joel Villanueva on NTF-ELCAC

April 22, 2021

My call to review, and realign the NTF-ELCAC budget to health and ayuda, conforms with the existing budget practice of realigning scarce funds to where these are more needed.  Naniniwala po ako na sangayon din ang mga kababayan dito. READ MORE

Villanueva: No need for excessive pork imports if we help local hog farmers

April 20, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva today declared that cutting tariffs and increasing the volume of imported pork would lead to a flooded meat market which would undermine efforts to get the country’s pig farmers back on their feet. READ MORE

Villanueva: Lalong malulugmok ang lokal na magbababoy sa inaasahang pagbaha ng imported pork sa bansa

April 20, 2021

Nangangamba si Senator Joel Villanueva sa tuluyang pagbaha ng imported pork sa bansa kapag natuloy ang implementasyon ng pagbaba sa taripa nito at pagtataas ng volume ng importasyon. READ MORE

Statement of Senator Joel Villanueva on community pantries

April 20, 2021

Community pantries should draw official support, not government suspicion. Imbis na paghinalaan, a public official, if he is true to his oath, must instead shower these bayanihan projects with PDA--public display of affection--as these are perfectly aligned with what the government is doing to help Filipinos cope with the pandemic. READ MORE

Villanueva: ‘Bayanihan spirit in action’ ang mga nagbubukas na community pantry

April 19, 2021

Nagbigay-pugay si Senator Joel Villanueva sa dose-dosenang community pantry na binuksan ng mga pribadong indibidwal sa iba’t ibang lugar upang tumulong sa mga nangangailangan. READ MORE

Statement of Senator Joel Villanueva on the updated list of essential workers for vaccination

April 16, 2021

Magandang balita po itong updated priority list of essential workers. Those who keep the public informed are as essential as those who teach, transport, feed, and protect us. By vaccinating them, we end up being protected as well. But in the case of our essential workers, there is double protection; aside from lives, livelihoods are likewise made safe. READ MORE

Villanueva: Speed up vaccination drive on essential workers to inject life back to sputtering PH economy

April 13, 2021

If the government wants to relax quarantine restrictions further and inject life back to the sputtering economy, then it must speed up the vaccination of essential workers in Mega Manila, which accounts for about two-thirds of the country’s economic output, Senator Joel Villanueva said today. READ MORE

Villanueva pushes for inclusion of media workers in gov’t priority list of essential workers to be vaccinated; ‘They are our information frontliners’

April 13, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva has sought the inclusion of workers in the media sector to be included in the government’s list of priority recipients of the COVID-19 vaccine, citing their indispensable work of providing “timely and truthful information” in the midst of the pandemic. READ MORE

Villanueva to DA: Prioritize the eradication of ASF; extend aid to hog farmers

April 12, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva called on the Department of Agriculture (DA) to ‘do everything in its power” to find a solution against the African swine flu (ASF) crisis, while at the same time providing aid to a now struggling local hog industry in danger of slaughter from calls to increase the importation of pork. READ MORE

OPENING REMARKS

April 12, 2021

Magandang araw po sa ating lahat. Nang mag-pork-holiday po at halos walang baboy sa mga palengke, marami po ang na-alerto. Ramdam po ‘yung epekto hanggang sa mga karinderia at hapag-kainan. Napakalapit po talaga ng isyung ito sa sikmura ng mga Pilipino. READ MORE

Villanueva, nanawagan para sa mabilis at maayos na pagpapatupad ng program kontra COVID-19

April 7, 2021

Nagpahayag ng suporta si Sen. Joel Villanueva sa pagtalakay tungkol sa panukalang Bayanihan 3 na maglalaan ng P420 bilyon para sa mga apektado ng COVID-19 crisis sa bansa, ngunit iginiit na dapat din daw tutukan ng pamahalaan ang maayos at mabilis na implementasyon ng mga kasalukuyang programa laban sa pandemya. READ MORE

Villanueva sa DOH: Magpatupad ng epektibong plano para sa naghihikahos na healthcare system ng Metro Manila

April 4, 2021

Hiniling ni Senator Joel Villanueva sa Department of Health (DOH) ang malinaw na plano upang sagipin ang healthcare system ng Metro Manila dahil napupuno na ang mga ospital sa NCR ng maysakit at sagad na rin ang mga hanay ng healthcare workers. READ MORE

Villanueva: Clear plan from DOH to manage overwhelmed healthcare system in Metro Manila needed

April 4, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva has sought from the Department of Health its plan to manage the stress in Metro Manila’s healthcare system as hospitals around the capital contend with overflow capacity and overstretched manpower. READ MORE

Statement of Senator Joel Villanueva on the expediting tripartite agreements with the private sector on its vaccine procurement

March 30, 2021

Private sector has the money and the DOH-NTF’s only equity is to speedily approve the tripartite agreement. Huwag na po sana natin ilagay sa 14-day quarantine ang mga private sector requests. Their offer should be treated like vaccines about to expire. READ MORE

Villanueva: Roll out ayuda to poor families, displaced workers, in areas under ECQ

March 29, 2021

The Cabinet should quickly roll out the “ayuda to the poor” which Malacanang guaranteed last week as forthcoming in areas under enhanced community quarantine, Senator Joel Villanueva said today. READ MORE

Villanueva sa IATF: Isama sa ECQ guidelines ang planong magiibsan sa dagsa ng COVID patients sa mga ospital

March 28, 2021

Hiniling ni Senator Joel Villanueva mula sa Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) kontra COVID-19 na palawigin ang ECQ directives nito upang maisama ang isang “urgent plan” kung paano maiibsan ang pagbuhos ng mga pasyente sa mga ospital. READ MORE

Villanueva recommends to IATF: Draw up ‘battle plan’ to decongest hospitals

March 28, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva is requesting the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) to expand its enhanced community quarantine directives for Mega Manila with an “urgent plan” to save hospitals from being “completely overwhelmed” by COVID-19 cases. READ MORE

Villanueva: Authorize local health execs to reallocate unused vaccines on next priority groups, instead of shipping back to sender

March 26, 2021

Owing to the archipelagic nature of the country, local health officials should be given the authority to reallocate left over vaccines based on the priority framework in order to prevent their spoilage, Senator Joel Villanueva said today. READ MORE

Bakunang hindi nagamit, wag nang ibiyahe uli Villanueva: Natirang bakuna, gamitin sa ‘next priority groups’

March 26, 2021

Nananawagan si Sen. Joel Villanueva na magpatupad ang Department of Health (DOH) ng “No Return Policy” sa mga bakunang hindi nagamit at payagan na lamang ang mga local health executives sa mga syudad at probinsya na ibigay ang mga ito sa susunod na priority groups kung tapos na ang healthcare frontliners. READ MORE

Villanueva: Use vaccines now on essential workers before it expires

March 24, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva urged the government to start injecting vaccines into essential workers now instead of ending up throwing away vaccines that had expired, saying while health workers were on top of the priority list, other frontline workers deserved and needed to be vaccinated as soon as possible, too. READ MORE

Villanueva: Supilin ang trafficking ng mga OFW sa pamamagitan ng mga kasunduan sa mga host country

March 23, 2021

Iginiit ni Senator Joel Villanueva ang kahalagahan ng mga kasunduan sa pagitan ng mga bansang kung saan nagtatrabaho ang mga overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) upang maiwasan sila maging biktima ng mga sindikato ng human trafficking. READ MORE

Villanueva: Curb trafficking of Filipinos through pacts with host countries

March 23, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva stressed the importance of having agreements with countries that host overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to prevent Filipino jobseekers from falling prey to human trafficking syndicates. READ MORE

Villanueva: Vaccine procurement must be made available for private sector, no exclusions; ‘Goal is vaccines for all’

March 21, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva scored the proposal to exclude certain firms from the government’s vaccine procurement program, saying such a move, if implemented, would hamper the efforts on speeding up the roll out of vaccines across the broader population. READ MORE

Villanueva: Gawing available sa buong pribadong sektor ang vaccine procurement, bawal ang exceptions; “Bakuna para sa lahat ang nais nating abutin”

March 21, 2021

Kinastigo ni Senator Joel Villanueva ang mungkahi na huwag isama ang iilang mga kumpanya mula sa vaccine procurement program ng gobyerno, dahil kung mapapatupad ito, magpapabagal lang lalo ito sa roll out ng bakuna sa buong populasyon. READ MORE

Villanueva: Harm done, but eased restrictions on returning Filipinos still welcome

March 19, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva welcomed the easing of restrictions on returning Filipinos from foreign countries after authorities rescinded a guideline it issued earlier this week which triggered a wave of disruptions on travel plans of Filipinos eager to come home. READ MORE

Villanueva: Gusot sa pag-uwi ng mga Pilipino mula abroad, plantsado na

March 19, 2021

Ikinalugod ni Senator Joel Villanueva ang pagbawi sa patakaran kamakailan na magbabawal sa pag-uwi ng mga Pilipino mula sa ibang bansa na nagdulot ng aberya sa mga kababayan natin na nais bumalik ng Pilipinas. READ MORE

Villanueva, umaapela sa gobyerno na huwag ipagbawal ang mga pauwing OFWs; ‘Obligasyon nating tulungan silang mga bagong bayani’

March 18, 2021

Hinikayat ni Senador Joel Villanueva ang gobyerno na huwag ipagbawal ang mga papauwing mga Pilipino mula sa labas ng bansa, dahil unti-unting nauubos ang kanilang naitabing savings para sa kanilang pamilya habang sila ay stranded sa ibayong-dagat. READ MORE

Villanueva asks gov't to reconsider ban on returning OFWs; 'They are our assets, why treat them like liabilities?

March 18, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva appealed to the government to reconsider its ban on returning Filipinos, saying every minute they are stranded overseas, their resources get depleted to the detriment of their families back home. READ MORE

OPENING REMARKS Department of Overseas Filipino (DOFIL)

March 18, 2021

Maganda at mapagpalang araw po. This is our 4th public hearing on the DOFIL, including that hearing in December 2020 before the bill was certified by the President. One of the eleven (11) bills in consideration is SB 1949 which is certified as urgent by the President. READ MORE

Villanueva: Panatilihin ang trabaho sa pamamagitan ng surveillance testing

March 16, 2021

Giniit ni Senator Joel Villanueva ang kahalagahan ng surveillance testing upang mapanatili ang trabaho habang pataas ang bilang ng mga bagong kaso ng COVID-19. READ MORE

Villanueva: Keep jobs alive through surveillance tests

March 16, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva stressed the crucial role that surveillance testing play in keeping millions of jobs alive amid another surge in cases of COVID-19. He said regular, random testing in workplaces could detect sources of coronavirus and stem its transmission and risks of workers bringing the virus home. READ MORE

Villanueva: Pagbaba sa optional retirement age para sa kawani ng gobyerno, hindi magreresulta sa staffing shortage

March 15, 2021

Magbubukas ng maraming oportunidad para sa susunod na henerasyon ng mga civil servant ang pag-adjust sa optional retirement age ng mga kawani ng pamahalaan, ayon kay Senator Joel Villanueva. READ MORE

Villanueva: Lowering optional retirement age for gov’t workers won’t result in staffing shortage

March 15, 2021

Adjusting the optional retirement age for government workers would open up opportunities for the next generation of civil servants and allow retirees to enjoy the next phase of their lives, according to Senator Joel Villanueva. READ MORE

Villanueva hails Senate ratification of Labor Education bill

March 15, 2021

The Senate ratified on Monday afternoon the bicameral conference committee report on the labor education bill, a measure that seeks to improve education and awareness on labor laws, according to Senator Joel Villanueva. READ MORE

Villanueva urges PSA: Issue clear policy to gov’t agencies on lifetime validity of birth certificates

March 14, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva called on the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) to clear the air with all government agencies on the lifetime validity of birth certificates, and deal away with the unnecessary need of securing the document issued within the past six months. READ MORE

Villanueva sa PSA: Linawin sa lahat ng ahensya ng gobyerno ang lifetime validity ng birth certificates

March 14, 2021

Hiniling ni Senator Joel Villanueva sa Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) na linawin sa mga kapwa nito ahensya ng gobyerno ang lifetime validity ng mga birth certificate, at alisin na ang pangangailangan sa mga aplikante na kumuha ng dokumentong ito na inisyu sa nakalipas na anim na buwan. READ MORE

Villanueva: Jailing quarantine violators will just add to COVID-19 spread

March 13, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva asked law enforcers to enforce quarantine rules but spare violators from jail, saying it could simply add to cases of coronavirus infections. READ MORE

Villanueva: Vaccine roll-out must go on a fast-break to jumpstart recovery of jobs, economy

March 11, 2021

The government's vaccination drive must go on a fast-break to meet its target number of beneficiaries, and loosen movement restrictions that affect workers and hamper economic activity, according to Senator Joel Villanueva. READ MORE

Villanueva: Pag-arangkada ng vaccine roll-out, susi sa panunumbalik ng trabaho at sigla ng ekonomiya

March 11, 2021

Hinikayat ni Senator Joel Villanueva ang gobyerno na pabilisin pa ang programa sa pagbabakuna laban sa COVID-19 upang maabot ang target na bilang ng benepisyaryo at masimulan nang luwagan ang mga restrictions sa paggalaw na nakakaapekto sa mga manggagawa at sa ating ekonomiya. READ MORE

Villanueva, hinimok ang IATF na pabilisin ang roll-out ng bakuna, at isama ang essential workers sa mga bibigyan

March 10, 2021

Hiniling ni Senator Joel “TESDAMAN” Villanueva sa IATF na pabilisin pa ang roll out ng bakuna laban sa COVID-19 upang makasabay na rin sa mga mabibigyan ng proteksyon laban sa sakit ang mga essential workers. READ MORE

Villanueva files bill expanding protection of women against discrimination at work

March 10, 2021

While negotiations are ongoing between the government and pharmaceutical firms who intend to supply COVID-19 vaccine for the country’s inoculation program... READ MORE

Villanueva: Women are key to success against the pandemic

March 8, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva today stressed the key role that women play in defeating the pandemic, saying that female leadership would make it impossible not to emerge victorious against the most serious health crisis gripping the Philippines and the rest of the world. READ MORE

Villanueva: Review protocols on workers’ deployment to curb OFW abuses, especially on women

March 8, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva called for a thorough review of protocols on deployment of workers, citing data from the Department of Labor and Employment which showed that the most abused OFWs are household service workers, who are mostly, if not all are women. READ MORE

Statement of Senator Joel Villanueva, chair of the Senate labor committee, on the 2020 unemployment rate of 10.3% or about 4.5 million unemployed workers

March 8, 2021

The only way to revive the economy and restore jobs and opportunities, especially for our workers and our MSMEs is hinged on the immediate roll out of the vaccination program. It cannot be overemphasized that our essential workers---our economic frontliners---be next in the vaccination line after medical frontliners. Before our workers can roll up their sleeves to work, they must roll them up to get their shots. READ MORE

Opening Remarks of Senator Joel Villanueva, chair of the Senate labor committee on the continuation of public hearing into the creation of the Department of Overseas Filipinos

March 8, 2021

Nasa iba’t ibang time zones man po ang ating mga kababayang overseas, ‘yung pangungumusta mula sa Pilipinas, wala pong pinipiling oras para makaramdam sila ng ginhawa sa pakiramdam. READ MORE

Villanueva on DoFil: ‘We want new agency for OFWs, not bureaucrats’

March 6, 2021

The Senate will buckle down to work again on Monday to hammer out the “nitty gritty” of creating a Department of Overseas Filipinos (DoFil) that won’t be just a change of agency name but one truly empowered to protect and promote the rights and welfare of millions of migrant Filipino workers. READ MORE

Statement of Senator Joel Villanueva on the passing of Fr. Joaquin Bernas, SJ

March 6, 2021

While Fr. Joaquin Bernas’ passing brings sadness to the countless whose lives he touched, it also gives us the chance to celebrate his life. READ MORE

Villanueva to DOLE: Issue clear guidelines upholding workers’ rights vs “no vaccination, no work” policy

March 4, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva warned against discriminating workers who opt out from vaccination programs implemented by their employers, saying instead of forcing workers to be inoculated, confidence building efforts should be carried out in the company, instead of threats of termination from employment. READ MORE

Villanueva: Vico Sotto showed fight vs corruption has ‘no gray area’

March 2, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva, whose early and continuing work in Congress involved fighting corruption, asked the Senate to commend Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto for being among 12 “Anti-Corruption Champions” in the world picked by the US State Department, saying the young mayor showed there was no “gray area” in good governance. READ MORE

Villanueva sets aside school hoops rivalry, backs citizenship for Ateneo standout

March 2, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva endorsed at the Senate the grant of Filipino citizenship to Ateneo standout Ange Kouame, who is being eyed by Gilas Pilipinas as its naturalized player for the upcoming 2021 FIBA Regional Qualifiers. READ MORE

Villanueva: Economy can recover only if workers vaccinated

March 2, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva pressed for the vaccination of workers as soon as possible, saying it was the only way for the economy to recover. READ MORE

CO-SPONSORSHIP SPEECH: KAKOU ANGE FRANCK WILLIAMS KOUAME

March 2, 2021

As a Filipino, a former member of the National Team, and a basketball enthusiast, it is my honor to support the granting of Philippine citizenship to Mr. Kakou Ange Franck Williams Kouame. READ MORE

Statement of Senator Joel Villanueva on the roll out of the government's vaccination program:

March 1, 2021

1,000 shots given, 100 million more to go. The journey of a hundred million shots begins with a single jab. READ MORE

Villanueva, ikinadismaya ang peligrong inabot ng mga manggagawa, sibilyan sa bakbakan ng PNP-PDEA sa Commonwealth

February 27, 2021

Kinuwestyon ni Senator Joel Villanueva ang pagpapasya ng mga awtoridad na sangkot sa nabigong buy-bust operation noong Miyerkules na naglagay sa peligro sa mga manggagawa ng fast-food chain, inosenteng bystanders at tumatangkilik, maging ang mga delivery personnel matapos magbarilan ang mga pulis at narcotics agents sa isa’t isa. READ MORE

Villanueva dismayed workers, civilians could have been hurt in PNP-PDEA clash

February 27, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva questioned the judgment of law enforcement agencies involved in the bungled buy-bust operations on Wednesday that endangered the lives of workers of a fast-food chain, innocent bystanders and patrons, as well as delivery personnel after cops and narcotics agents opened fire at one another. READ MORE

Villanueva: COVID-19 vaccination program law leaves no more room for alibis in delays

February 26, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva is confident that the newly-signed COVID-19 vaccination program law will help end the lack of vaccines “and erase the shame of our being last in the ASEAN to get one.” READ MORE

Villanueva rejects health 'workers-for-vaccine' barter

February 25, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva on Thursday rejected suggestions that the Philippines send health workers to the United Kingdom or Germany in exchange for vaccines, saying the move should not be the answer to some officials’ impatience over the arrival of vaccine supplies. READ MORE

Villanueva hails passage of Labor Ed bill; ‘We are one step closer to an empowered workforce'

February 22, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva hailed the Senate approval on third and final reading the measure that, if enacted into law, would require tertiary education institutions and tech-voc training institutes to integrate labor education subjects in their general education curriculum. READ MORE

MANIFESTATION ON THE APPROVAL OF THE LABOR EDUCATION BILL ON THIRD READING

February 22, 2021

Mr. President and distinguished colleagues: It is not easy to look at the state of our workers this year. The pandemic has caused many of them to be laid-off or to experience pay cuts. Marami po sa ating mga manggagawa ang magsasabing mahirap mag-demand sa kanilang mga labor rights ngayon. Mas mainam na raw pong bawasan ang sweldo nila kesa naman walang trabaho. READ MORE

Villanueva: Itaguyod ang National Emergency Medical Service gamit ang 5,000 nars sa hanay ng BFP

February 16, 2021

Higit sa limang libong bumbero sa buong bansa ay mga gradweyt ng nursing, na masasabing “malaking professional pool na magagamit bilang backbone ng isang National Emergency Medical Services (EMS) na wala pa rin sa ating bansa,” ayon kay Senator Joel Villanueva. READ MORE

CO-SPONSORSHIP SPEECH Vaccine Procurement Act

February 16, 2021

An Act Expediting the Procurement and Administration of Vaccines for the Protection Against the Coronavirus Disease 2019, Providing Funds Therefore and for Other Purposes READ MORE

Villanueva: Department of Overseas Filipinos, napapanahon na!

February 15, 2021

“Isa sa bawat sampung Pilipino ay nasa ibang bansa. Kung nasa isang bansa po ang lahat ng ating mga kababayang overseas Filipino, ito ang magiging pang-91st pinakamaliking populasyon sa buong mundo. Mas malaki pa kaysa sa population ng Sweden, Austria, UAE, Israel, o Switzerland ang bilang ng mga Pilipino sa ibayong dagat.” READ MORE

OPENING REMARKS Hearing on Department of Overseas Filipinos

February 15, 2021

Department of Overseas Filipino By Senator Joel Villanueva Maganda at mapagpalang umaga, tanghali, hapon, gabi, at hatinggabi po sa inyong lahat. READ MORE

CLOSING REMARKS Department of Overseas Filipino By Senator Joel Villanueva

February 15, 2021

While negotiations are ongoing between the government and pharmaceutical firms who intend to supply COVID-19 vaccine for the country’s inoculation program... READ MORE

Villanueva: Senate labor committee begins hearings into creation of Department of Overseas Filipinos

February 14, 2021

Discussions into the creation of a new government department handling exclusively the issues of overseas Filipinos are set to resume when the Senate labor committee continues its public hearing into several legislative proposals on Monday. READ MORE

Villanueva backs gradual reopening of colleges; calls on CHED, DOH to strictly monitor health protocols

February 12, 2021

The chair of the Senate committee on higher education is backing government’s decision to gradually reopen colleges for face-to-face classes, beginning with those in health and medical courses. READ MORE

Villanueva: Government response to pandemic needs an immediate booster shot

February 11, 2021

President Duterte’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic is so dismal that it needs “an immediate booster shot,” Senator Joel Villanueva said, reacting to a recent survey showing that the Philippine government got the lowest approval rating for its response to the pandemic among Southeast Asian countries. READ MORE

Statement of Sen. Joel Villanueva on PRRD's decision to stop implementation of car seats law

February 11, 2021

Mabuti at sinita ng Pangulo. Siya naman talaga ang ating traffic enforcer-in-chief. Maraming matutuwa na hindi nya pinalusot ito. READ MORE

Villanueva calls to defer implementation of New Motor Vehicle Inspection System

February 9, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva has sought the suspension of the implementation of the New Motor Vehicle Inspection System (MVIS) as transport regulators and private-owned motor vehicle inspection centers (PMVIC) failed to demonstrate preparedness to consistently and fairly implement new vehicle registration standards. READ MORE

Villanueva: CREATE bill slashes costs of cancer medication

February 7, 2021

Once enacted into law by President Duterte, the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises (CREATE) bill will result in a more affordable cancer treatment as the measure will exempt cancer prevention medication from the Value Added Tax, Senator Joel Villanueva said today. READ MORE

Villanueva: Senate rules committee green-lights hearings into proposed body for OFW concerns

February 3, 2021

Hearings on the proposed establishment of new government departments, including one solely to handle concerns of overseas Filipino workers, have received the green light to proceed, according to Senator Joel Villanueva. READ MORE

Villanueva: Ratified CREATE bill to cushion impact of automation on employment

February 3, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva lauded Congress’ ratification of the proposed Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises (CREATE) law that would now cover training incentives to cushion the impact of automation in employment and upskill workers. READ MORE

Manifestation on the Ratification of CREATE Bill

February 3, 2021

Mr. President, at this juncture, I would like to thank and congratulate the Chairperson of the Committee on Ways and Means, Senator Pia Cayetano, for ably and tirelessly sponsoring such a complex legislation that is the CREATE or the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises Act. READ MORE

Villanueva: Senate labor committee, itutuloy na ang mga hearing sa pagtatatag ng departamento para sa mga OFW

February 1, 2021

Nagbigay na ng clearance ang Senate Committee on Rules sa mga iba’t ibang kumite ng Senado na dinggin ang mga panukalang pagtatatag ng mga panibagong departamento sa pamahalaan, kabilang ang Department of Filipinos Overseas, ayon kay Senador Joel Villanueva. READ MORE

Villanueva: DOFW hearing, kasado na

February 1, 2021

Nagbigay na ng clearance ang Senate Committee on Rules sa mga iba’t ibang kumite ng Senado na dinggin ang mga panukalang pagtatatag ng mga panibagong departamento sa pamahalaan, kabilang ang Department of Filipinos Overseas, ayon kay Senador Joel Villanueva. READ MORE

Villanueva welcomes expansion of government priority list in inoculation program

January 8, 2021

The government has expanded its priority list in its COVID-19 vaccination program to include essential workers, heeding the call of Senator Joel Villanueva who sought their inclusion as early as December last year given their vital role in ensuring basic services are provided to the people. READ MORE

Villanueva: Isama sa prayoridad ng vaccination program ang mga essential workers tulad ng delivery riders, tindero sa palengke, construction workers, atbp.

January 7, 2021

Iginiit ni Senator Joel Villanueva ang kahalagahan na isama ang mga manggagawa sa vaccination program ng gobyerno, lalo na ang mga minimum wage earners, na nagbibigay ng mga essential services sa mga mamamayan. READ MORE

Villanueva, hiniling sa IATF na simulan na ang pagbabalangkas ng panuntunan para sa priority list ng COVID-19 vaccination program

January 6, 2021

Hiniling ni Senator Joel Villanueva sa Inter-Agency Task Force na simulan na ang pagbalangkas ng listahan ng benepisyaryo para sa COVID-19 vaccination program upang makasigurong hindi magkakaroon ng overlap sa pagbabahagi ng bakuna. READ MORE

Villanueva files bill seeking to defer SSS contribution hike.

January 5, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva has filed a bill seeking to defer the implementation of the Social Security System (SSS) one-percent hike on the members' monthly contribution this month, citing the economic hardships already faced by both workers and employers due to the COVID-19 pandemic. READ MORE

Villanueva: Essential workers like delivery riders, market attendants, construction workers must be included in govt’s inoculation plan.

January 4, 2021

Senator Joel Villanueva reiterated the need to include workers in the government’s vaccination program, particularly those earning minimum wage, saying the ability to sustain the country’s economic recovery relies heavily on inoculating those providing essential services to the public. READ MORE

Estado ng COVID-19 Vaccination Program ng gobyerno: Nasaan na po ba tayo?

January 3, 2021

Isang ligtas at mapagpalang araw po sa ating lahat. Tatlong bagay lamang po: UNA, nagsumite po tayo ng hiwalay na Senate Resolution 598 dahil gusto po nating matiyak na prayoridad ang ating mga manggagawa, lalo na ang mga essential workers, sa isasagawang National Covid-19 Vaccination Program. READ MORE

Villanueva’s Doktor para sa Bayan Law gets sufficient funding in the newly signed 2021 Budget.

January 2, 2021

The 2021 national budget has sufficient funding to support the implementation of the Doktor para sa Bayan Act, which has been signed into law recently by President Duterte, according to Senator Joel Villanueva. READ MORE

Villanueva calls on IATF: Start drawing up guidelines on priority list to avoid overlaps in vaccine roll out

January 1, 2021

While negotiations are ongoing between the government and pharmaceutical firms who intend to supply COVID-19 vaccine for the country’s inoculation program... READ MORE