The House of Representatives’ Makabayan bloc has recently filed a resolution calling for an investigation into the alleged “signature buying” for Charter change (Cha-cha). The resolution seeks the involvement of the House Committee on Public Accounts to shed light on the matter. Representatives France Castro of ACT Teachers Party-List, Arlene Brosas of Gabriela Women’s Party, and Raoul Manuel of Kabataan Party-List, all members of the Makabayan bloc, have expressed concerns about the funding for the so-called “people’s initiative” and its potential impact on the democratic process.
According to the resolution, there have been reports of individuals being incentivized to sign the petition supporting the charter change through the use of government social protection programs. Programs such as Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS), Medical Assistance for Indigent Patients (MAIP), and Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) have allegedly been utilized to encourage public participation in the petition. The Makabayan bloc believes that this raises questions about the integrity of the process and the fairness of the campaign.
The circulating petition aims to amend Section 1 (1) of Article XVII of the 1987 Constitution by adding the phrase “voting jointly, at the call of the Senate President or the Speaker of the House of Representatives.” This section of the Constitution states that any amendment or revision to the Constitution can be proposed by Congress through a three-fourths vote of all its members or through a Constitutional Convention. Additionally, Section 2 of the same article allows the public to propose amendments directly through initiative, requiring a petition signed by at least 12 percent of the total number of registered voters, with every legislative district represented by at least 3 percent of the registered voters therein.
Another allegation mentioned in the resolution is the offer of P20 million to each district in certain provinces to buy signatures. This claim raises concerns about the potential manipulation of the democratic process and the influence of monetary incentives on public opinion.
Furthermore, the resolution highlights a paid TV advertisement that is perceived as a promotional stunt in favor of Charter Change (Cha-Cha). The Makabayan bloc questions the source of funds for this advertisement and the overall campaign for Charter Change. They believe that the public has the right to know the origins of the financial support behind such initiatives.
In a recent interview on Radyo5, businessman Noel Oñate, identified as the national lead convener of the People’s Initiative for Reform, Modernization, and Action (Pirma), revealed that the group is in coordination with House lawmakers regarding their people’s initiative drive. This revelation adds another layer of complexity to the situation, raising questions about the relationship between advocacy groups and lawmakers.
The Makabayan bloc’s resolution seeks to address these concerns and ensure transparency and accountability in the process. By initiating an investigation, they aim to shed light on the alleged “signature buying” and the use of government programs to influence public participation. Additionally, they seek clarification on the source of funds for the pro-Charter Change advertisement and the overall campaign. The resolution reflects the public’s demand for transparency and their right to be informed about the processes that shape the nation’s future.
As the investigation unfolds, it is crucial to uphold the principles of democracy and protect the integrity of the Constitution. The allegations of “signature buying” and the use of government programs to influence public participation raise significant concerns about the fairness and legitimacy of the process. The resolution filed by the Makabayan bloc serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency and accountability in shaping the nation’s future.
Source: The Manila Times
