Another term for pro-showbiz congressman

MANILA, Philippines - With his impressive track record as legislator, Rep. Irwin Tieng of Buhay Party List has been given another term to serve his constituents.

“I am very happy that, once again, the public has supported Buhay Party List and me,” says the young legislator, who was named Benjamin of the lower house by an influential magazine because of his laudable efforts in Congress. “I will never stop responding to the needs of various sectors of society in the next three years.”

Irwin is one of the proponents of groundbreaking bills like the Anti-Photo and Video Voyeurism Act of 2009, the lowering of the amusement tax and the anti-camcording act, which has become RA 10088.

The “Anti-Photo and Video Voyeurism Act of 2009” or Republic Act 9995 prohibits taking photo or video of sexual activities, private parts without the consent of the people concerned; copying and reproducing, selling and distributing, and publishing and broadcasting such materials.

For Irwin, the bill signifies his genuine concern for the “voiceless.” He adds, “As legislators, I want to contribute to the safety of each member of the society.”

Irwin earned accolades from showbiz people when, with his efforts, House Bill 4637 was passed into law as Republic Act 9640 (Lowering of the Amusement Tax Bill).

The new law reduced the rate of amusement tax from 30 to 10 percent on gross receipts of admission fees on theaters and cinemas, amending Section 140 of the Local Government Code of 1991.

“The industry deserves this help from the country’s legislators,” says the congressman. “It is one of the best gifts we were able to give our brothers and sisters in the entertainment industry.”

Moreover, Irwin was able to pass the anti-camcording act to help government’s anti-piracy campaign.