In a heated dispute, the Senate and the House of Representatives in the Philippines find themselves at odds over the People’s Initiative campaign to amend the 1987 Constitution. Lawmakers from both Houses hold opposing views, leading to a potential split between the two branches of government.
The Senate recently issued a manifesto expressing their opposition to the People’s Initiative, citing a violation of a previous agreement between the two Houses. The agreement was to focus on the adoption of Resolution of Both Houses (RBH) 6, which aimed to amend only the economic provisions of the Constitution.
A People’s Initiative allows members of the Senate and the House to vote jointly through a constituent assembly on proposed constitutional amendments. However, the Senate manifesto argues that this initiative aims to bypass the Senate and make it easier to revise the Constitution. They see it as a prelude to further amendments or even a complete overhaul of the entire Constitution.
Senate President Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri read the manifesto, stating, “This so-called People’s Initiative proposes only one change: in acting as a constituent assembly, the Senate and the House shall vote jointly. While it seems simple, the goal is apparent to make it easier to revise the Constitution by eliminating the Senate from the equation.”
On the other hand, Speaker Martin Romualdez supports the ongoing People’s Initiative campaign, considering it an essential democratic process. He reaffirmed the House of Representatives’ commitment to the initiative, emphasizing that it allows citizens to propose constitutional amendments and serves as a direct expression of the people’s will.
While the Senate respects and recognizes the people’s right to call for constitutional amendments, they are cautious of any underhanded attempt to exploit the democratic process in the name of a people’s initiative. Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr. appealed to his colleagues in both the Senate and the House to approach the matter as statesmen and find a resolution that serves the best interests of the country and its people.
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is currently accepting signatures for the People’s Initiative. According to the Comelec, as of 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Election Officer (EO) Certifications have been issued to 187 out of 254 legislative districts and 1,010 cities and municipalities. However, the remaining 67 legislative districts are yet to submit their signature forms.
To proceed with the filing of a petition, eight million signatures, equivalent to 12 percent of the total registered voters nationwide, and three percent of the registered voters per legislative district are required. Currently, two million signatures have been collected.
The clash between the Senate and the House of Representatives over the People’s Initiative campaign highlights the complexity of constitutional amendments and the importance of maintaining a balance of power in a democratic system. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how this conflict will be resolved and what implications it may have for the future of the Philippine Constitution.
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Source: The Manila Times
