Senate Passes EBET and LPD Industry Acts, Aiming to Boost Skills Training and Agricultural Development

MANILA – The Senate approved two crucial bills on Monday, signaling a significant step forward in educational training and agricultural industry support. Both measures received unanimous support with 19 affirmative votes, zero negative, and zero abstentions.

According to Philippines News Agency, Senate Bill (SB) No. 2587, known as the Enterprise-based Education and Training (EBET) Framework Act, is a priority measure endorsed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. It is designed to facilitate the implementation of training programs by enterprises and enhance access to training for individuals aiming to develop skills in a technologically evolving landscape. Senator Joel Villanueva, the bill’s principal author, expressed gratitude towards President Marcos and his Senate colleagues for their unwavering support.

Senator Loren Legarda highlighted that the EBET Act tailors training programs to meet the specific needs of various industries, ensuring strategic alignment with sector-specific requirements. The introduction of a grievance committee in every enterprise implementing the EBET program, as mentioned by Senate Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros, aims to protect trainees and promote equal opportunities within these programs.

Simultaneously, the Senate also passed Senate Bill No. 2558, which focuses on strengthening the livestock, poultry, and dairy (LPD) industry through improved government policies and programs. This bill, sponsored by Senator Cynthia Villar, is set to enhance the value chain of the industry, increase the efficiency of disease control measures, and ensure food safety and quality standards. Senator Loren Legarda noted that this measure would significantly benefit smallholder farmers and contribute to sustainable agricultural practices.

Senator Robinhood Padilla emphasized the importance of this legislation for the nation’s food security, particularly in the context of global challenges. He highlighted the necessity of ensuring a stable food supply derived from local production.

In addition to these two pivotal bills, the Senate also approved six other measures aimed at upgrading hospitals in Ilocos Norte, Guimaras, Bohol, Bulacan, and Negros Occidental, reflecting a broad legislative effort to enhance national infrastructure and services.