Two senators have strongly condemned the reported attempt by certain proponents of Charter change (Cha-cha) to bribe local government leaders into signing a petition to amend the Constitution. Senator Maria Josefa Imelda “Imee” Marcos stated, “Our Constitution is not for sale.” She further denounced those openly and shamelessly bribing districts, local government units (LGUs), and potential signatories to agree to a people’s initiative.
Senator Jose “Jinggoy” Estrada also criticized this unethical and illegal practice of soliciting signatures in exchange for P100, under the guise of a supposed people’s initiative. He emphasized that this action clearly violates our laws and undermines the democratic process. The people’s initiative to amend the Constitution is a constitutional right that should be exercised freely and without coercion. Estrada called for an investigation and prosecution of those engaging in such unlawful activities, stating that the people’s trust in the democratic process must be protected and preserved.
Marcos revealed that she had learned that congressmen and local executives were asked to provide lists of beneficiaries, which could potentially be their staff coordinators’ relatives. She highlighted that the Constitution requires the petition to be represented by at least three percent of the registered voters in every legislative district.
Albay Representative Jose Ma. Clemente “Joey” Salceda acknowledged the need for urgent revisions in the Constitution, particularly on the economic front. He stated that this has been a consensus in the House of Representatives for a long time. Salceda also mentioned that the President’s coalition, including the President’s own party, has been devoted to the idea of Charter Change, indicating that the political mass necessary for constitutional change is present.
Salceda emphasized that it is natural and normal for democracies to revise their constitutions to suit the evolving needs of the times and to adjust for conditions unforeseen by the framers. Drawing a comparison to the United States Constitution, which has been amended 27 times, he pointed out that the Philippines has not amended the 1987 Constitution for almost 40 years, despite the obvious need for revision in certain provisions.
Salceda acknowledged that previous attempts to initiate Charter change in the House have been unsuccessful in the Senate. However, he expressed his support for ongoing efforts to initiate Charter change through the direct involvement of the voters via a people’s initiative. He believes it is better to introduce amendments to the Constitution well before the 2028 presidential elections to assure the public that the changes are not designed to pave the way for extending the term of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Salceda emphasized the importance of following the constitutionally-provided processes for initiating and opposing Charter change. He called for both proponents and opponents to go through the established process. Earlier, mayors from Albay expressed their support for a people’s initiative as a way to amend the Charter.
In conclusion, the attempt to bribe local government leaders into signing a petition for Charter change has been met with strong condemnation from senators. They have emphasized the need to protect the democratic process and ensure that the people’s trust is preserved. Additionally, the discussion surrounding Charter change and its potential revisions to the Constitution continues, with differing opinions on the timing and methods of initiating these changes.
Source: The Manila Times
