The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) expresses its full support for the filing of Senate Bill (SB) No. 2355 and SB 2722 entitled “An Act Encouraging Corporate Social Responsibility, Providing Incentives Therefore,” as this encourages businesses to contribute to sustainable development, benefiting both business and society.

SB 2355, filed by Sen. Ramon Bong Revilla, Jr., and SB 2722, filed by Sen. Raffy Tulfo, seek to promote Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) by establishing a framework for businesses to use surplus profits for activities such as charitable programs, environmental sustainability, and employee welfare. Additionally, it mandates the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to recognise and reward outstanding CSR efforts, motivating companies to excel in their social responsibility.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is the commitment of businesses to support sustainable economic development. It involves collaborating with employees, their families, local communities, and society to enhance quality of life in ways that benefit both business and broader development. CSR encompasses various aspects of business conduct, including corporate governance, environmental protection, social inclusion, human rights, and national economic progress. [1]

These bills align with the State policy stated in Section 20, Article Il of the 1987 Constitution, specifically, “The State recognizes the indispensable role of the private sector, encourages private enterprise, and provides incentives to needed investments.” By promoting CSR, SB 2355 and SB 2722 support the Constitutional mandate to encourage private sector involvement in national development. Furthermore, they integrate a human rights approach by ensuring that business practices contribute to social inclusion, thus reinforcing the State’s commitment to both economic and social progress.

The Commission recognises Sen. Ramon Bong Revilla, Jr. and Sen. Raffy Tulfo’s initiative in introducing these bills, which help ensure that corporate efforts improve individual welfare and respect human rights. By supporting these bills, we take a major step towards a future where businesses not only boost the economy but also prioritise the well-being of Filipinos, creating a fairer society for all. ###

[1] Opportunities and Options for Governments to Promote Corporate Social Responsibility in Europe and Central Asia, https://documents1.worldbank.org/curated/en/257431468093573048/pdf/358740rev0CSR0in0Europe01PUBLIC1.pdf