Lawmaker files resolution for holding of Con-con to amend Constitution

MANILA, Philippines (PNA) — Noting the need to amend some provisions of the 1987 Constitution, a lawmaker has filed a resolution at the House of Representatives urging Congress to immediately call for a Constitutional Convention (Con-con).

In filing House Resolution 848, Eastern Samar Rep. Ben Evardone said that after almost 24 years of implementing the 1987 Charter, "it has become imperative to revisit the Constitution to make the country more responsive to the needs of the people, create a more attractive investment climate for foreign capital, and boost the economy beyond the bondage of restrictive and dormant policies."

Evardone cited the much-needed reforms in the country's electoral system in order to become a fair, honest, orderly and peaceful elections.

"Article 17 of the 1987 Constitution empowers Congress to call for a Constitutional Convention as one of the modes to amend the Constitution," he said, that would be "more acceptable to the people compared to the Constitutional Assembly (Con-ass) whose members would be suspected of preserving and protecting their own interests."

Evardone said Con-con should prioritize amendments to economic provisions that will enhance the country's competitiveness, generate investments and employment.

It should also prioritize political reforms "that will put an end to political dynasties and level the playing field of political arena," and provisions that will preserve, protect and enhance the environment without putting manacles in the development process.

Con-con should also look into amendments to provisions that promotes mass-based democracy and strengthen democratic institutions.

Evardone said Con-con shall be composed of two delegates from each existing congressional legislative district and that all political parties, coalition or alliance shall be prohibited from nominating, fielding, endorsing, supporting directly or indirectly any candidate.

He said the Convention should complete its work within 60 consecutive days from the opening of its session and should conduct public hearings to ensure that the Filipino people will have adequate and sustained participation in the formulation of proposed amendments to the Constitution.

An initial amount of P250 million shall be appropriated for the holding of a Constitutional convention.

The House committee on Constitutional Amendments, headed by Misamis Occidental Rep. Loreto Leo Ocampos, will conduct hearing on Tuesday to discuss proposals to amend the Charter. (report from Manila Bulletin)