Senate President Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri announced on Thursday that any proposed amendments to the 1987 Constitution will focus solely on economic matters. This clarification comes as a response to concerns raised by the public regarding potential changes to the political provisions of the Charter.
Zubiri assured the public that the Senate, through discussions with various senators, has reached a consensus to limit amendments to economic matters. He emphasized that there is no need to fear their push for simple yet meaningful changes to the Constitution.
In fact, Zubiri expressed his commitment to his position as Senate president by stating that he would resign if proposals to amend the political provisions of the 1987 Constitution were to pass the upper chamber of Congress. He made it clear that his actions are driven solely by a desire to serve the best interests of the nation, without any ulterior motives.
To initiate these proposed amendments, Zubiri filed Resolution of Both Houses No. 6, which specifically targets provisions related to the operation of public utilities, education services, and players in the advertising industry. This resolution was co-authored by Senate President Pro Tempore Lorna Regina “Loren” Legarda and Sen. Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara, highlighting the collaborative effort among senators to address economic concerns.
The move by Zubiri has garnered support from Sen. Robinhood “Robin” Padilla, chairman of the Senate Committee on Constitutional Amendments and Revision of Codes. Padilla believes that these amendments will revitalize the nation’s economy and lead to progress in the lives of Filipinos.
It is important to note that amendments to the Constitution can also be proposed through people’s initiative. This process requires a petition signed by at least 12 percent of the total number of registered voters, with at least 3 percent of voters from each district. However, these proposed amendments will only be valid if ratified by a majority of the votes cast in a plebiscite.
Zubiri pointed out that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. does not support the people’s initiative scheme to amend the Constitution. He highlighted the potential imbalance in representation, as the House of Representatives, with its over 300 members, could overpower the vote of the Senate, which has only 24 members. Zubiri urged the public to heed the President’s stance on the matter.
In conclusion, Senate President Zubiri’s announcement clarifies that proposed amendments to the 1987 Constitution will be limited to economic matters. The filing of Resolution of Both Houses No. 6 demonstrates the commitment of senators to address economic concerns and revitalize the nation’s economy. The public is encouraged to stay informed and listen to the President’s position on the people’s initiative scheme for amending the Constitution.
Source: The Manila Times
