In a recent radio interview, Senator Maria Josefa Imelda “Imee” Marcos called on members of the House of Representatives to be transparent about their intentions regarding term extension and changes to the form of government. She urged lawmakers to openly disclose their motives behind the push for Charter change (Cha-cha) through people’s initiative (PI).
The senator emphasized the need for honesty, stating, “Let’s get real. If their intention is to change the system of government, then be honest about it.”
This challenge comes after House Majority Leader Manuel Jose “Mannix” Dalipe dared all 24 senators to declare their stance on the need to amend certain economic provisions in the 1987 Constitution to attract more foreign investors.
The Senate Sub-Committee on Constitutional Amendments and Revision of Codes recently discussed Resolution of Both Houses (RBH) 6, which aims to review the economic provisions of the Constitution.
Senator Marcos questioned the disguised nature of the discussions, saying, “Let’s not talk about economic matters as a disguise. We all know the intention is not about economic matters. Why not just openly admit what you want?”
She further emphasized the importance of conducting debates and amendments in a proper manner, without insulting the Filipino people through constant bribery.
Senator Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara also expressed doubts about the true intentions of the House in pushing for people’s initiative. He stated, “I think they really want political amendments. They were just hiding it from the public.”
Additionally, Senator Francis Joseph Escudero challenged proponents of Charter change to admit their involvement in what he referred to as a “fake” people’s initiative to amend the 1987 Constitution.
Escudero criticized the challenge made by House Majority Leader Dalipe, describing it as a classic case of “the pot calling the kettle black.” He urged House members to be accountable and transparent, stating, “Why don’t they come out in the open, be accountable and admit to the public that they are truly the ones behind this pekeng (fake) people’s initiative instead of doing a striptease?”
Escudero also called on Dalipe and other House members to publicly acknowledge their involvement in the reported “tainted” signature campaign to amend the 1987 Constitution. He highlighted the contradictory statements made by House members regarding their role in the campaign.
He concluded by stating that he and his colleagues will reveal their stand on Charter change at the appropriate time.
As the debate surrounding Charter change and people’s initiative continues, it is crucial for lawmakers to engage in open and honest discussions about their intentions. Transparency and accountability are essential in ensuring that any proposed amendments to the Constitution are in the best interest of the Filipino people.
Source: The Manila Times