Senate prioritizes four bills: barangay election delay, Phivolcs modernization, Baguio charter fix, DFA pension reform

The Senate will prioritize four key legislative measures when sessions resume on January 13, including postponing barangay elections until October 2027, modernizing Phivolcs (Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology), correcting flaws in the Baguio City Charter, and offering pension adjustments for Department of Foreign Affairs personnel.

Senate Bill 2816 proposes extending the terms of incumbent barangay officials for two years, ensuring a focused governance cycle with the next regular Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections set for October 2027.

The Phivolcs modernization bill aims to enhance disaster preparedness by acquiring advanced forecasting technology and increasing seismic stations following recent volcanic eruptions at Kanlaon and Taal Volcanoes.

House Bill No. 7406 seeks to correct flaws in the Baguio City Charter, addressing concerns about the city's status as an independent, highly urbanized local government.

SBN 2863 or the Foreign Affairs Pension Differential Act aims to provide a dignified retirement for DFA personnel aged 65 with at least 15 years of service.