Magna Carta for Information and Communications Technology (Ict) Professionals in Government

Senail Othre of the Serty TWENTIETH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES FEB 26 P1:39 First Regular Session RECEIVED BY SENATE 1914 Senate Bill No.. Introduced by Senator JOEL VILLANUEVA AN ACT PROVIDING FOR A MAGNA CARTA FOR INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY (ICT) PROFESSIONALS IN GOVERNMENT EXPLANATORY NOTE Technology and communications have emerged as the primary engines of the global economy, which is projected to reach US$28 trillion by 2026.1 In line with this, achieving a shared vision for a digitally competitive Bagong Pilipinas depends heavily on a skilled, motivated, and well-supported ICT workforce within the government, as they serve as the backbone of our country's journey toward digital transformation. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, the digital economy contributed 8.5% to the national GDP in 2024 and employed 11.3 million workers,? reflecting the growing importance of ICT to national development. Despite this progress, the Philippines ranks 57th out of 121 countries in the Digital Quality of Life Index, placing the country below average in terms of internet affordability, internet quality, digital infrastructure, digital security, and artificial intelligence readiness. These indicators highlight the urgent need to strengthen and retain competitive ICT professionals within the country. 1 ITBrief. Digital Economy seen surging to USD $28 Trillion by 2026. Published on 09 January 2026. Available at https://itbrief.news/story/digital-economy-seen-surging-to-usd-28-trillion-by-2026. 2 GMA News Online. PH digital economy hits P2.25T in 2024, 8.5% of GDP. Published on 29 April 2025. Available https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/money/economy/944344/ph-digital- economy-hits-p2-25t-in-2024-8-5-of-gap/story/. 3 Business World. Philippines ranks 57h in digital quality of life list. Published on 26 December 2025. Available at https://www.bworldonline.com/infographics/2025/12/26/720999/philippines-ranks- 57th-in-digital-quality-of-life-list/

However, the government currently faces a significant challenge in recruiting and retaining highly skilled ICT professionals. The private sector, both local and international, offers more competitive compensation, benefits, and opportunities for career advancement. According to the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), approximately 80% of Filipino computer professionals work abroad or in the private sector largely due to substantial salary gap. ICT professionals can earn as much as Php200,000 per month overseas, while government positions can only provide an average of Php50,000 per month. This disparity drives many highly skilled professionals to pursue opportunities abroad or in the private sector rather than serve in government, and leads to a constant "brain drain," where valuable expertise is lost from the public sector which further widens the digital capability gap within the public sector. To remedy this, the government needs the creation of a compensation framework that is competitive with private sector standards, acknowledging the specialized and high-demand nature of ICT skills. This includes the establishment of minimum compensation standards and the exemption of critical ICT positions from standard salary grades. Moreover, as the ICT-sector is characterized by rapid technological change, government ICT professionals must constantly update their knowledge and skills. To ensure that this is achieved, there must be a supportive work environment that fosters productivity and long-term retention. Given these realities, the passage of the Magna Carta for ICT Workers in Government is earnestly sought as a strategic and forward-looking investment in the nation's digital future. This measure is not merely about improving salaries, it is about institutionalizing long-term support systems that will build a resilient, highly skilled, and motivated ICT workforce within government that is capable of driving national progress and ensuring that our Bagong Pilipinas is one that is also a Bayang Digital. With these in consideration, the passage of the Magna Carta for ICT Workers in Government is earnestly sought. Трем LANUEVAA 4 Business World. Philippines struggles to keep cyberwarriors due to tech brain drain. Published on 05 May 2025. Available at https://wealthinsights.metrobank.com.ph/bworldonline/philippines- struggles-to-keep-cyberwarriors-due-to-tech-brain-drain.

Office of the & artarp TWENTIETH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES FEB 26 P1:39 First Regular Session RECEIVED BY: SENATE Senate Bill No. _ 1914 Introduced by Senator JOEL VILLANUEVA AN ACT PROVIDING FOR A MAGNA CARTA FOR INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY (ICT) PROFESSIONALS IN GOVERNMENT Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress assembled: CHAPTER 1 GENERAL PROVISIONS

SECTION 1. Short Title. - This Act shall be known as the "Magna Carta for

Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Professionals in Government."

SEC. 2. Declaration of Policy. - The foundational contribution of ICT

professionals is indispensable to national progress. To this end, the State aims to prioritize research, development, and science and technology (S&T) education, promote Filipino labor and domestic industry competitiveness, and affirm the vital role of youth in nation-building. The State is committed to actively supporting ICT professionals welfare and development and seeks to guarantee their rights, provide incentives to boost productivity and innovation, and foster an environment that attracts, retains, and empowers them. The State aims to enhance the country's progress and competitiveness in the global digital arena, directly aligning with the constitutional principles of promoting national development and empowering its citizens.

SEC. 3. Definition of Terms. - For the purpose of this Act, the following terms

shall mean as follows: a) Continuing Professional Development (CPD) - refers to the ongoing, lifelong process of actively maintaining and progressively enhancing the knowledge, technical skills, professional competencies, and ethical standards of ICT professionals. b) Government ICT Professional - refers to an ICT professional employed by any branch, department, bureau, office, agency, or instrumentality of the national government, government-owned or controlled corporations (GOCCS), state universities and colleges (SUCs), and local government units (LGUS). C) ICT Professional - refers to an individual who, through formal education, specialized training, relevant experience, or recognized professional certification, is engaged in activities intrinsically related to and in support of ICT. This includes roles in software development, network administration, cybersecurity, data science, artificial intelligence, systems analysis and design, IT project management, technical support, ICT education and training, and emerging ICT specializations. d) ICT Professional Organization - refers to any association, society, or institute of ICT professionals duly recognized and accredited by the appropriate government agency. CHAPTER 2 CLASSIFICATION OF ICT PROFESSIONALS

SEC. 4. Classification of ICT Professionals. - For the effective

implementation of the benefits and incentives provided under this Act, ICT professionals shall be classified analogous to those defined in Republic Act No. 8439, or the "Magna Carta for Scientists, Engineers, Researchers and Other Science and Technology Personnel in Government, "as follows: a) ICT Specialists - individuals who possess a high degree of expertise and specialization in a specific field of ICT, demonstrated by advanced education, professional certifications, significant experience, and recognized contributions to their area of specialization. This may include cybersecurity experts, data

scientists, Al/Machine Learning engineers, cloud architects, and senior software architects. ICT Engineers - individuals who apply engineering principles and methodologies to the design, development, implementation, and maintenance of ICT systems, infrastructure, and solutions. This may include network engineers, systems engineers, software engineers, and hardware engineers. 7 c) ICT Researchers - individuals who are primarily engaged in the conduct of research and development activities aimed at advancing knowledge and innovation in the field of ICT. This includes those involved in basic and applied research in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, emerging technologies, and software engineering. d) ICT Technologists - individuals who possess the technical skills and knowledge to implement, operate, and maintain ICT systems and equipment. This may database include network administrators, systems administrators, administrators, and IT support specialists. e) ICT Educators - individuals who are primarily engaged in the teaching and training of ICT-related subjects in academic institutions, technical-vocational schools, and training centers. This includes professors, instructors, and trainers in various ICT fields. f) Other ICT Professionals - individuals providing support services to the ICT Personnel enumerated in the preceding subsections as certified by the Secretary of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), and as may be further defined in the Implementing Rules and Regulations of this Act.

SEC. 5. Criteria for Classification. - The DICT shall, in consultation with the

Civil Service Commission (CSC) and the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), establish specific criteria and guidelines for the classification of ICT professionals under the categories defined under Section 4 of this Act. These criteria shall take into account factors such as educational attainment, professional certifications, relevant experience, level of responsibility, and contributions to the ICT sector. The DICT shall publish a Competency Framework for ICT Roles and require a National Registry of Government ICT Professionals aligned with ICT industry

standards, local and international competency frameworks, and mutual recognition 2 agreements. CHAPTER 3 EMPLOYMENT AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT

SEC. 6. Structured Career Progression and Opportunities for

6 Specialization. - Government agencies and institutions shall establish transparent and well-defined career progression pathways for ICT professionals, providing clear opportunities for professional advancement based on demonstrated performance, 9 accumulated relevant experience, and commitment to continuous professional development. They shall also actively support specialization in emerging and critical ICT fields through the provision of relevant training programs, mentorship opportunities, and professional certification support.

SEC. 7. Mandatory and Accessible Continuing Professional

Development (CPD). - a) Establishment of a Mandatory CPD Program. - The DICT shall, in close collaboration with relevant professional organizations, duly recognized locally or internationally, establish and implement a robust and mandatory CPD program for all ICT professionals to ensure the continuous updating and enhancement of their knowledge, technical skills, professional competencies, and ethical awareness. b) CPD Credit Units and Recognition of Diverse Learning Activities. - ICT professionals shall be required to earn a specified number of CPD credit units within a specified period for the maintenance and renewal of their professional licenses or certifications, where such are applicable. The CPD program shall recognize a diverse range of learning activities, including formal training, seminars, workshops, online courses, research, publications, and professional practice such as but not limited to the following: i. CompTIA, Cisco, AWS, Google, ISCZ, PMI certifications; and ii. Participation in hackathons, innovation bootcamps, and coding academies. c) Ensuring Accessible and Quality CPD Programs. - The government shall actively promote and provide substantial support for the development and widespread

accessibility of affordable and high-quality CPD programs for ICT professionals throughout the nation, including the strategic utilization of online and blended learning methodologies to reach a wider audience.

SEC. 8. Strategic Training and Scholarship Programs in ICT. - The

5 government shall establish and substantially support comprehensive training and 6 scholarship programs across diverse and specialized fields of ICT, with a particular focus on emerging technologies and critical skills identified as essential for national development and global competitiveness. These programs shall be made accessible to deserving individuals from all socioeconomic backgrounds, including those from 10 marginalized communities, to ensure equitable access to opportunities in the ICT sector. CHAPTER 4 COMPENSATION, WORKING CONDITIONS, SOCIAL WELFARE, AND OTHER BENEFITS

SEC. 9. Compensation for ICT Professionals in Government. - To

recognize the unique expertise and evolving demands of ICT professionals in government service, an alternative compensation framework shall be established, notwithstanding the provisions of Republic Act No. 6758, or the "Compensation and Position Classification Act of 1989." The CSC and the DBM shall jointly issue regulations governing the classification, compensation, and benefits of ICT professionals, ensuring competitiveness with private sector standards while maintaining fiscal responsibility. ICT positions identified as critical to national security, digital infrastructure, and innovation shall be exempt from standard salary grades under R.A. 6758, subject to CSC and DBM approval. Such exemptions shall be based on industry benchmarks, specialized skill requirements, and market conditions. The CSC and the DBM shall periodically review and adjust the compensation framework to reflect technological advancements and labor market trends, ensuring the retention and motivation of highly skilled ICT personnel in government service.

SEC. 10. Standard Working Hours and Fair Overtime Compensation. -

The standard working hours for ICT professionals in government shall be governed by

1 Executive Order No. 292, or the Administrative Code of 1987, and by CSC rules and regulations. Any work rendered beyond these standard hours shall be compensated fairly and promptly in accordance with applicable overtime pay regulations and industry standards.

SEC. 11. Comprehensive Leave Benefits and Entitlements. - ICT

professionals shall be entitled to a comprehensive range of leave benefits, including, 7 but not limited to, ample sick leave, generous vacation leave, full maternity leave, 8 supportive paternity leave, and other special leaves as mandated by existing labor laws and the specific policies of their respective employers. To ensure fair and equitable compensation, all Job Order (JO) and similarly 11 situated ICT workers who are engaged to perform, and do perform, work beyond the 12 standard working hours shall be entitled to overtime pay in accordance with applicable pay regulations and industry standards.

SEC. 12. Guarantee of a Safe and Healthy Working Environment. -

Employers shall have a fundamental responsibility to ensure and maintain a safe, healthy, and ergonomically sound working environment for all ICT professionals. This includes the provision of necessary ergonomic equipment, adequate facilities, and comprehensive training on occupational safety and health protocols to mitigate workplace hazards.

SEC. 13. Robust Social Security and Comprehensive Welfare Benefits.

21 - ICT professionals shall be entitled to full coverage under the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) for government employees, as well as all other relevant social welfare benefits as mandated and provided by existing laws, rules, and regulations.

SEC. 14. Facilitation of Housing and Transportation Assistance. -

Government agencies and institutions shall facilitate access to affordable housing options and provide adequate transportation assistance to ICT professionals, particularly those working in geographically remote or economically disadvantaged areas, to enhance their quality of life and reduce commuting burdens.

SEC. 15. Access to Psychological Support Services. - Government

agencies shall ensure that their ICT Professionals have access to the following:

a) On-site or partner mental health professionals for counseling and psychological first aid; b) Tele-mental health services for remote or field-based personnel; and C) Peer support programs and mental health champions within the workplace.

SEC. 16. Highest Basic Salary Upon Retirement. - Upon retirement, the

6 ICT personnel concerned shall automatically be granted one (1) salary grade higher 7 than his/her basic salary, and his/her retirement benefits shall be computed on the basis of his/her highest salary received. CHAPTER 5 ROLE OF GOVERNMENT AND PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

SEC. 17. Enhanced Role and Responsibilities of the Department of

Information and Communications Technology (DICT). - The DICT shall serve as the primary government agency vested with the comprehensive responsibility for the effective implementation and rigorous enforcement of this Act. It shall: 15 a) Proactively formulate and strategically implement policies and comprehensive programs designed to promote the overall welfare and continuous professional development of all ICT professionals in the Philippines; b) Establish, regularly review, and ensure the enforcement of equitable minimum compensation standards and comprehensive guidelines for ICT professionals across all sectors, in close collaboration with the CSC, and duly recognized relevant professional organizations; c) Develop, implement, and continuously improve a robust and accessible national CPD program that caters to the diverse needs and specializations within the ICT profession; d) Actively promote and provide substantial support for the establishment and expansion of high-quality training and scholarship programs in critical and emerging fields of ICT; e) Facilitate the meaningful and substantive participation of ICT professionals, through their accredited professional organizations, in the critical processes of policy formulation, legislative review, and strategic decision-making that directly impact the ICT sector;

1 f) Diligently monitor and rigorously evaluate the effective implementation of this Act, identify areas for improvement, and recommend necessary legislative or regulatory amendments to ensure its continued relevance and impact; and g) Establish clear criteria and procedures for the formal accreditation of professional organizations of ICT professionals and ensure their active and constructive engagement in the sector's development.

SEC. 18. Vital Role of Accredited Professional Organizations. - Duly

accredited professional organizations of ICT professionals shall play a vital and recognized role in: 10 a) Effectively representing the collective interests of their members and actively advocating for the comprehensive protection and advancement of their rights, welfare, and professional standing; b) Collaborating closely and constructively with the DICT and other relevant government agencies in the strategic development, thorough review, and effective implementation of policies and programs that directly affect ICT professionals; 17 C Developing, actively promoting, and rigorously enforcing high ethical standards and comprehensive codes of professional conduct for their members, ensuring accountability and responsible practice; d) Proactively developing and delivering relevant and high-quality CPD programs and diverse professional development opportunities that cater to the evolving needs of their membership; and e) Actively participating in the establishment and implementation of fair and transparent accreditation and certification processes for ICT professionals, where such mechanisms are deemed necessary and beneficial for the profession. CHAPTER 6 RECOGNITION AND INCENTIVES

SEC. 19. Establishment of National ICT Awards. - The government shall

establish a National ICT Awards program to recognize and honor outstanding ICT professionals, groundbreaking innovations, and significant contributions to the ICT

1 sector and national development. These awards shall be conferred annually and shall 2 carry appropriate prestige and incentives.

SEC. 20. Incentives for Innovation, Research, and Development. - The

4 government shall provide meaningful incentives and substantial support for ICT 5 professionals actively engaged in research and development, fostering innovation, and 6 creating valuable intellectual property within the field of ICT. These incentives may 7 include research grants, tax exemptions or credits, access to specialized facilities, and assistance in the commercialization of their innovations.

SEC. 21. Non-DICT ICT Professional. - ICT personnel not employed by the

10 DICT, but is an employee of any executive, legislative, judicial and constitutional offices, including local government units (LGUs), state universities and colleges (SUCs), government-owned or -controlled corporations (GOCCs) and other instrumentalities, whether located in the Philippines or abroad may also avail benefits outlined in this Act: Provided, That they are involved in ICT functions as provided in

Section 4 of this Act and have secured certification from the DICT.

CHAPTER 7 SCHOLARSHIPS AND GRANTS FOR ICT DEVELOPMENT

SEC. 22. Establishment of ICT Scholarship and Grant Programs. - The

government shall, through the DICT, in collaboration with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), and other relevant government agencies, establish and administer comprehensive scholarship and grant programs to support the education, training, and professional development of ICT professionals and individuals aspiring to enter the ICT sector.

SEC. 23. Coverage of Scholarships and Grants. - Scholarship and grant

programs shall cover various aspects of ICT education and training, such as: a) Undergraduate and Graduate Degree Programs. - Scholarships for deserving students pursuing bachelor's and postgraduate degrees in ICT-related fields in accredited higher education institutions, both local and international, where deemed strategic.

b) Technical and Vocational Training. - Grants and financial assistance for individuals undertaking technical and vocational courses in ICT skills identified as critical for national development and industry needs, provided by TESDA- accredited institutions. Specialized Skills Development. - Grants for ICT professionals seeking to acquire advanced or specialized skills in emerging technologies and strategic ICT domains through certificate programs, short courses, and industry-recognized certifications. d) Research and Development Grants. - Grants to support ICT professionals and researchers engaged in innovative research and development projects that contribute to the advancement of the ICT sector in the Philippines. e) Faculty Development Grants. - Grants to support the professional development of ICT educators, including opportunities for further studies, research, and training in emerging ICT fields.

SEC. 24. Funding and Administration. - The funds necessary for the

implementation of these scholarship and grant programs shall be sourced from the national budget and may be augmented through partnerships with private sector entities, international organizations, and other funding sources. The DICT shall be responsible for the overall administration and monitoring of these programs, ensuring 20 their effective and equitable distribution. CHAPTER 8 MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS

SEC. 25. Provision Against Double Benefits. - ICT personnel receiving the

same benefits under any other law shall not be allowed to avail of the benefits under this Act unless they submit in writing their intention to withdraw the benefits already being received and opt for those provided hereunder.

SEC. 26. Magna Carta Monitoring and Evaluation Committee. - To

ensure the effective implementation, continuous improvement, and accountability of this Act, a Magna Carta Monitoring and Evaluation Committee (MCMEC) shall be established.

a) Composition and Leadership. - The MCMEC shall be co-chaired by the DICT and the CSC, with members from: i. DBM ii. DOST iii. Commission on Audit (COA) iv. Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) V. Department of Health (DOH) VI. Career Executive Service Board (CESB) vii. Representative from the CSC-accredited Employees' Organization in the DICT 11 viii. Representative from an accredited ICT professional organization b) Mandate and Functions. - The Committee shall: i. Monitor agency compliance with the provisions of this Act ii. Evaluate the effectiveness of programs related to ICT workforce development, mental health, and professionalization iii. Recommend policy enhancements and implementation strategies 17 C) Annual Reporting to Congress. - The MCMEC shall submit an Annual Implementation Report to Congress, which shall include: i. Status of compliance by government agencies ii. Participation rates in CPD programs iii. Data on the mental health and well-being of the ICT workforce iv. Recommendations for legislative or administrative actions The annual report shall be made publicly accessible through the DICT website and other appropriate platforms to promote transparency and stakeholder engagement

SEC. 27. Administrative Penalties for Non-Compliance. - Government

officials or personnel who willfully or negligently fail to implement or comply with the provisions of this Act shall be subject to appropriate administrative sanctions, in accordance with existing civil service laws and regulations. These may include: a) Written reprimand for minor infractions; b) Suspension for repeated or moderate violations; and C) Dismissal from service for grave or willful neglect of duty.

The CSC shall, in coordination with the DICT, issue the implementing rules to 2 guide the investigation and imposition of penalties. Agencies found to be non- compliant may also be subject to audit observations and recommendations by the COA, including possible disallowance of funds related to unimplemented benefits or programs.

SEC. 28. Appropriations. - The amount necessary for the initial

7 implementation of this Act shall be charged against the current year's appropriations 8 of the departments and agencies concerned. Thereafter, such sums necessary for the continued implementation of this Act shall be included in the General Appropriations 10 Act.

SEC. 29. Periodic Review. - To ensure the continued relevance and

effectiveness of this Act in addressing the evolving needs and challenges of the ICT sector and its professionals, the DICT, the CSC, the DBM, where applicable, accredited professional organizations of ICT professionals, and other relevant stakeholders, shall conduct a comprehensive review of this Act at least once every five (5) years from the date of its effectivity.

SEC. 30. Implementing Rules and Regulations. - Within ninety (90) days

from the effectivity of this Act, the DICT shall, in coordination with the CSC, DBM, and other relevant agencies, promulgate the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) for the effective implementation of this Act. Unjustified or willful failure or refusal of the relevant government agencies to promulgate the IRR within the specified period shall subject the heads of these government agencies to administrative penalties under applicable civil service laws. Should the IRR contain provisions that are contrary to this Act, the heads of the government agencies responsible for such provision, when done in bad faith or with gross negligence, shall be held administratively liable.

SEC. 31. Separability Clause. - If any portion or provision of this Act is

declared unconstitutional, the remainder hereof or any provisions not affected thereby shall remain in full force and effect.

SEC. 32. Repealing Clause. - Any law, presidential decree or issuance,

executive order, letter of instruction, rule, or regulation inconsistent with the provisions of this Act is hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

SEC. 33. Effectivity, - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its

2 complete publication in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation. Approved, • 13