TWEENTIETH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES First Regular Session 25 JUL -9 P5:12 SENATE RECE S. No. 326 Introduced by SENATOR CAMILLE VILLAR AN ACT ESTABLISHING THE "EBOOKS FOR THE BARANGAY PROGRAM", AND PROVIDING FUNDS THEREFOR EXPLANATORY NOTE This bill seeks to establish a nationwide initiative to be known as the "Ebooks for the Barangay Program" under the Department of Education (DepEd), with the goal of ensuring that every barangay in the country has access to free, curated, and quality digital learning resources. Geographic and infrastructural limitations across the Philippine archipelago continue to hinder equitable access to educational materials, particularly in remote and underserved communities. Many barangays still lack physical libraries, up-to- date learning tools, and digital platforms that can support the evolving academic needs of their residents. These gaps contribute to persistent educational inequality and limit opportunities for lifelong learning. This proposed measure offers a strategic and cost-efficient solution to these challenges, through the use of digital technologies at the State's disposal. By delivering a secure and accessible library of e-books, video lectures, and interactive resources, complemented by device distribution, training for users, and capacity- building efforts, the program seeks to empower local communities, promote digital literacy, and bridge the digital divide. The program represents a meaningful step toward inclusive education, especially for far-flung areas seemingly left behind stuck to traditional modes of learning. It aims to transform barangays into accessible learning hubs, where residents of all ages can access knowledge and skills that improve their quality of
life. In view of the foregoing, the approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
TWENTIETH CONGRESS OF THE REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES ) First Regular Session JUL -9 75:12 SENATE S. No. 326 Introduced by SENATOR CAMILLE VILLAR AN ACT ESTABLISHING THE "EBOOKS FOR THE BARANGAY PROGRAM", AND PROVIDING FUNDS THEREFOR Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress assembled: ARTICLE I GENERAL PROVISIONS
Section 1. Short Title. This Act shall be known as the "Ebooks for the Barangay
Program Act".
Sec. 2. Declaration of Policy. - It is hereby declared policy of the State to ensure
7 that quality educational materials are accessible to all, recognizing the right of all citizens to education and promoting lifelong learning.
Sec. 3. Establishment of the Ebooks for the Barangay Program. - There is
hereby established a nationwide program to be known as the "Ebooks for the Barangay Program" under the Department of Education (DepEd). This program aims to provide each barangay with access to free and curated digital learning resources that support the academic needs of its residents.
Sec. 4. Program Components. - The Ebooks for the Barangay Program shall
include the following components:
a) Digital library platform - This shall provide a secure and organized database of digital learning resources, including e-books, video lectures, simulations, and other relevant materials, in various fields of study and in languages suitable for the local community. b) Devices distribution - The program shall facilitate the provision of electronic devices, such as tablets or e-readers, to ensure access to digital library resources for all barangays, particularly in areas with limited internet access. c) Capacity building - DepEd shall coordinate workshops and training programs to enhance digital literacy among barangay residents and develop skills in using e-resources. d) Monitoring and evaluation - Periodic assessment and data collection shall be carried out to measure the program's success and inform its continuous improvement.
Sec. 5. Funding. - The necessary funding for the implementation of this Act
shall be sourced from the DepEd's share in the General Appropriations Act (GAA).
Sec. 6. Implementing Rules and Regulations. - The DepEd, in coordination with
pertinent government agencies and instrumentalities, shall develop the implementing rules and regulations, within sixty (60) days from the effectivity of this Act.
Sec. 7. Separability Clause. - Any portion or provisions of this Act that may be
declared unconstitutional or invalid shall not have the effect of nullifying other portions or provisions hereof as long as such remaining portions or provisions can still subsist and be given effect in their entirety.
Sec. 8. Repealing Clause. - All laws, presidential decrees, executive orders,
memoranda, circulars, and other issuances, or parts thereof, which are inconsistent with the Act, are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.
Sec. 9. Effectivity Clause. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its
publication in at least two (2) newspapers of general circulation.
Approved,