A number of religious and civic organizations have come together to form the Koalisyon Laban sa Cha-cha (Coalition against Charter change) in opposition to attempts to amend the 1987 Constitution. The coalition argues that revising the Constitution will not address the country’s problems as claimed by its proponents.
Founding members of the coalition include Senator Ana Theresia “Risa” Hontiveros, Kidapawan Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo, Bishop Jonel Milan of the K4Philippines Intercessors Movement, Caritas Manila Executive Secretary Fr. Antonio Labiao, Ging Quintos-Deles of the Buhay ang EDSA Campaign Network, Minnie Anne Mata-Calub of the National Council of Churches in the Philippines (NCCP), Josua Mata of Nagkaisa Labor Coalition, and members of Akbayan youth.
In a statement, the coalition emphasizes that while the Constitution is robust, it lacks full implementation due to a lack of necessary implementing laws. The leaders entrusted with power, the coalition argues, have failed to fully implement the Constitution and provide the necessary laws due to their own selfish agendas.
The coalition refutes the claims made by pro-Cha-cha lawmakers that the Constitution and its economic provisions are to blame for chronic poverty. It questions the need to change the Constitution when President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. himself denies the corruption and human rights abuses of his father’s dictatorial regime.
Instead of revising the Charter, the coalition believes that the government should focus on eradicating corruption, protecting the environment, breaking political dynasties, and ensuring electoral integrity. It views attempts to alter the Constitution, especially with limited public participation and questionable motives, as a threat to the nation’s well-being.
Bishop Bagaforo, chairman of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines’ Episcopal Commission on Social Action, Justice, and Peace, emphasizes that the 1987 Constitution is not a political plaything but was crafted to serve the Filipino people, upholding human dignity, human rights, and the common good. He echoes the stance of the CBCP, stating that any revision must adhere to these moral principles.
Senator Hontiveros commends the unity of religious and civic groups against Cha-cha, emphasizing that it is a unity for the good of the many, not just the interests of the few. She urges people to join the coalition and other groups in the fight against Cha-cha, expressing a desire to move away from broken promises and work towards a better future.
The National Council of Churches in the Philippines (NCCP), an ecumenical fellowship of non-Roman Catholic denominations, also opposes Cha-cha. NCCP’s vice chairman for women, Jennifer Ferariza-Meneses, expresses concerns that the proposed amendments may open up the economy to further foreign exploitation and compromise Philippine sovereignty.
Justine Balane, Chairman of Akbayan Youth, highlights that student councils are rising against Cha-cha, as they believe it will “short-change” the youth. The coalition emphasizes that instead of divisive and unnecessary Charter Change initiatives, politicians should prioritize solving pressing issues such as hunger, poverty, and poor education.
Ging Quintos-Deles states that a just and equitable society for all Filipinos cannot be achieved through self-serving Charter changes but requires a genuine commitment to the people’s welfare. Fr. Antonio Labiao adds that the government should fulfill its duty and prioritize the needs of its citizens.
Josua Mata concludes by emphasizing that what Filipinos truly need is a government that listens to their concerns, addresses their needs, and works towards a better future for all.
In summary, the Koalisyon Laban sa Cha-cha is a coalition of religious and civic organizations united in their opposition to constitutional amendments. They argue that instead of revising the Constitution, the government should prioritize eradicating corruption, protecting the environment, breaking political dynasties, and ensuring electoral integrity. The coalition calls for a commitment to the people’s welfare and urges politicians to address pressing issues faced by the Filipino people.
Source: The Manila Times
