A leader of the House of Representatives recently expressed agreement with Vice President Sara Duterte regarding the abhorrence of any form of vote buying in a democracy. However, it was reiterated that those participating in the People’s Initiative campaign to amend the 1987 Constitution were not being paid.
In her comments, Vice President Duterte highlighted her concerns that the signature campaign for charter change may be exploiting Filipinos living in poverty and undermining their right to make independent decisions without fear or monetary influence. She emphasized that pushing for a people’s initiative, despite the prevailing issues of poverty and the uncertain peace and order situation, reflects a failure to address the true problems faced by Filipinos and find effective resolutions.
To clarify the situation, House Deputy Majority Leader for Communications, Representative Erwin Tulfo (ACT-CIS Party-list), stated in a radio interview that there were no instructions from the House leadership to pay individuals signing the proposal to amend the Constitution. The aim of the proposed amendment is to allow joint voting of the Senate and House, rather than convening a constituent assembly.
Tulfo emphasized that any form of bribery in exchange for votes or signatures is not ideal, echoing the sentiments of the vice president. He clarified that there was no intention to force or bribe anyone, but rather the discussion revolved around the possibility of implementing the people’s initiative and enabling the Senate and House to vote as one.
The idea of changing certain economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution has been discussed since the post-EDSA Revolution. However, significant opposition, especially due to the potential introduction of political amendments, has hindered progress on the issue. Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri even threatened to resign if the political provisions of the current Constitution were touched.
Tulfo assured the public that despite the ongoing discussions surrounding the amendment of the 1987 Constitution, the House of Representatives remains committed to its work. Once the session resumes after the holiday break on January 22, they will continue addressing priority bills highlighted by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in his State of the Nation Address (SONA).
It is important to note that the House of Representatives has not reneged on its responsibilities and is dedicated to passing key laws that will benefit the nation. The focus on priority bills demonstrates their commitment to fulfilling their duties and responsibilities to the Filipino people.
In conclusion, while concerns have been raised about the People’s Initiative campaign to amend the Constitution, it has been clarified that there were no instructions to pay individuals for their signatures. The House of Representatives remains committed to its work and will continue addressing priority bills that will contribute to the betterment of the country. It is crucial to ensure transparency and uphold the principles of democracy throughout the process of amending the Constitution.
Source: The Manila Times
