Cong Gila Garcia files bill declaring December as National Volunteer Month

Bataan 3rd District Rep. Gila Garcia has sponsored House Bill No. 4706 seeking to declare December of every year as National Volunteer Month and institutionalize the celebration of December 5 as National Volunteer Day in the Philippines.

Garcia, who serves as Chairperson of the Committee on People’s Participation, said the proposed measure aims to strengthen the spirit of volunteerism among Filipinos, especially the youth, and encourage greater participation in activities that contribute to nation-building.

“Layunin ng panukalang ito na hikayatin ang mas nakararami lalo na ang ating mga kabataan, na lumahok sa mga gawaing magbibigay-ambag sa iba’t ibang larangan gaya ng edukasyon, kalusugan, seguridad, at iba pa,” the congresswoman said.

She said volunteerism has long been deeply rooted in Filipino culture through the enduring spirit of bayanihan, where communities unite through compassion, cooperation, and collective action.

She added that Filipinos continue to demonstrate volunteerism not only during times of crisis and calamities but also in their daily lives.