In a recent roundtable discussion with the Malacañang Press Corps at the Melia Hotel, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed his concerns about the discord that has arisen between the two houses of Congress due to the people’s initiative (PI) issue. He emphasized that his administration is actively seeking simpler solutions to the Constitutional amendment quandary.
To find the best course of action, President Marcos Jr. has sought advice from former justices, including Chief Luke (Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin), as well as their legal counsel and constitutionalists. The goal is to preserve the role of both houses in the bicameral system while resolving the disagreement on the people’s initiative.
While the best analysis and interpretation suggest that the legislature is bicameral in nature and should vote separately, the exact process is still being determined. President Marcos Jr. stated that decisions have not yet been made, and it remains uncertain if the people’s initiative will continue to be one of the options moving forward.
Senator Maria Josefa Imelda “Imee” Marcos expressed her disappointment in the flawed people’s initiative, stating that it is tarnishing the Marcos family’s brand of service and legacy. She highlighted the importance of not wasting the second chance given to the Marcoses in returning to politics and urged for a resolution that upholds their political capital.
Senate President Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri acknowledged the President’s doubts on the efficacy of the people’s initiative and assured that the Senate would proceed with Resolution of Both Houses 6 (RBH 6). He emphasized the need to maintain the checks and balances enshrined in the Constitution through a bicameral legislature and expressed optimism that the subcommittee hearings on RBH 6 could start the following week.
House Majority Leader and Zamboanga City 2nd District Rep. Manuel Jose “Mannix” Dalipe appealed for the immediate passage of RBH 6, stating that it would render the people’s initiative ineffective since two initiatives cannot occur within a span of five years. Bataan 1st District Rep. Geraldine Roman echoed this sentiment, urging for action and the start of discussions on RBH 6.
House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez denied the allegation that he masterminded the people’s initiative signature drive. He clarified that his involvement was purely advisory, as representatives from the people’s initiative had approached him for a meeting. Romualdez emphasized that the meeting was held in the spirit of open dialogue and understanding of civic actions spearheaded by citizens.
Senate Majority Leader Emmanuel Joel Villanueva criticized Romualdez’s letter to the Senate, considering it an insult to the institution. He questioned whether Romualdez was admitting to leading a “pekeng” (fake) initiative, emphasizing that it can no longer be called a people’s initiative (PI). Villanueva expressed his disappointment and frustration, highlighting the need for honesty and integrity in the process.
In conclusion, the discord between the two houses of Congress over the people’s initiative quandary is a matter of concern for President Marcos Jr. and his administration. They are actively seeking simpler solutions to resolve the disagreement while preserving the role of both houses in the bicameral system. The passage of Resolution of Both Houses 6 (RBH 6) is seen as a potential solution to render the people’s initiative ineffective. However, allegations and counterarguments continue to complicate the situation, highlighting the need for open dialogue, understanding, and a commitment to upholding the integrity of the political process.
Source: The Manila Times
