NOON of June 30, on the very first day of the 20th Congress, Rep. Kenneth Gatchalian wasted no time in getting to work—filing five priority legislative measures aimed at promoting inclusivity, improving public services, and protecting the environment.
“As a public servant, my duty began the moment I was elected. Nevertheless, filing my priority bills intensifies the legislative role I carry” said Rep. Gatchalian. “These bills reflect the values closest to my heart and the urgent needs of our constituents, especially the most vulnerable.”
At the core of the legislative package are measures that uplift Persons with Disabilities (PWDs)—a sector that the congressman vows to champion. Two of the first bills filed were:
House Bill No. 167 – Sensory Rooms in Public Facilities Act: Mandates the establishment of sensory rooms in public spaces to provide a safe and calming environment for children with sensory and special needs.
House Bill No. 168 – Upgrading the Salary Grade of SPED Teachers Act: Aims to increase the salary grades of SPED teachers to encourage more qualified professionals to serve in public SPED centers and ensure fair compensation on par with private sector standards.
Recognizing the growing healthcare needs of his constituents, Rep. Ken also filed:
House Bill No. 169 – An Act Increasing the Bed Capacity and Renaming of Valenzuela Medical Center: Proposes to raise the hospital’s bed capacity from 500 to 800, while renaming it the Antonio M. Serapio Medical Center in honor of the late Cong. Antonio Serapio’s legacy of public service.
Understanding that his responsibility extends to national issues, Gatchalian also introduced two environmental bills that target long-standing ecological challenges:
House Bill No. 170- Flood Management Act of 2025: Introduces a comprehensive national flood mitigation plan to safeguard lives and properties across Metro Manila and the country.
House Bill No. 171- Waste Treatment Technology Act: Promotes the adoption of modern, efficient, and environmentally safe waste treatment solutions, with special attention to hazardous waste.
“These five measures are only the beginning. And this beginning represents the crucial steps toward a better Valenzuela and a stronger Philippines.”
In the coming days, the Congressman is expected to further detail the proposed bills and unveil more legislative initiatives.
metrosundaily
