AMID the Commission on Elections’ (Comelec) suspension of the people’s initiative (PI) proceedings, Presidential Adviser for Poverty Alleviation Lorenzo “Larry” Gadon said on Monday that this is the ideal time to revise the 1987 Constitution.
Gadon allayed fears that the move to change the charter was primarily meant to extend the term of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. or any other elective government officials. He emphasized that the intention behind the proposed constitutional revision is to address the long-standing issues and concerns that have persisted for almost four decades.
“For sure, there are those who seek to confuse the people and undermine the genuine desire to revise the charter,” Gadon told The Manila Times via Viber. “However, it is important to set aside politics and think about the future of our country.”
Gadon highlighted that the 1987 Constitution was crafted by only 50 individuals who were personally appointed by former president Cory Aquino. These individuals were not elected by the people and therefore, were not representative of the entire Filipino population. This lack of democratic process during the creation of the constitution raises concerns about its legitimacy.
“It is crucial to recognize that the ‘Cory’ constitution was designed to protect the interests of the oligarchs close to the late president, while the majority of Filipinos were left behind,” Gadon explained. “This was not true democracy in action.”
The call for constitutional revision stems from the need to address the shortcomings and limitations of the current constitution. Over the past four decades, the Philippines has undergone significant changes in its political, social, and economic landscape. As a result, there is a growing consensus among many Filipinos that the 1987 Constitution no longer adequately reflects the aspirations and needs of the nation.
One of the key issues that proponents of constitutional revision seek to address is the concentration of power among a few political elites. The current constitution has been criticized for creating a system that perpetuates the dominance of a select few, while hindering the progress and development of the country as a whole. By revising the constitution, there is an opportunity to introduce reforms that promote a more inclusive and representative political system.
Additionally, the revision of the constitution would allow for a reevaluation of the distribution of resources and wealth in the country. Critics argue that the current constitution has failed to address the systemic inequalities that exist within Philippine society. By revisiting the constitution, there is a chance to implement measures that promote social justice and equitable development.
It is important to note that the process of constitutional revision should be undertaken with transparency and inclusivity. The voices and opinions of the Filipino people must be heard and considered throughout the process. This ensures that the resulting constitution truly reflects the collective aspirations and values of the nation.
While the suspension of the people’s initiative proceedings by the Comelec may have temporarily halted the momentum for constitutional revision, it should not deter the ongoing discussions and debates surrounding this important issue. The need for a revised constitution remains, and it is crucial that all stakeholders continue to engage in meaningful dialogue to find the best way forward.
In conclusion, the call for constitutional revision in the Philippines is driven by the desire to address the shortcomings of the current constitution and ensure that it reflects the aspirations and needs of the nation. By revisiting the constitution, there is an opportunity to create a more inclusive and representative political system, as well as promote social justice and equitable development. It is essential that the process is carried out with transparency and inclusivity, with the voices of the Filipino people at the forefront.
Source: The Manila Times
