The House of Representatives has approved on third and final reading a measure declaring December as National Volunteer Month and December 5 as National Volunteer Day, in a bid to strengthen the culture of volunteerism across the country.
House Bill No. 4706 secured 263 affirmative votes, with one abstention. The measure seeks to amend Republic Act No. 9418, or the Volunteer Act of 2007, by formally including the annual observance of National Volunteer Month and National Volunteer Day in the law.
Under the bill backed by Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III and Majority Leader Ferdinand Alexander “Sandro” Marcos, the Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency will lead the celebration and coordinate activities promoting volunteerism nationwide.
The proposal also encourages all government agencies and offices, including government-owned and controlled corporations, local government units, and the private sector, to take part in programs and activities marking the observance.
The bill was authored by Pangasinan Rep. Marlyn Primicias Agabas and endorsed by the House Committee on People’s Participation chaired by Marikina City Rep. Marcy Teodoro.
Agabas said the measure aligns the country with the global observance of International Volunteer Day every December 5, affirming the Philippines’ commitment to international cooperation and civic participation.
She said the Volunteer Act of 2007 already established a framework for promoting, coordinating, and recognizing volunteer initiatives nationwide, while HB 4706 seeks to further elevate volunteerism and encourage wider participation from all sectors.
The bill now moves closer to becoming law after clearing the House on final reading.