Cha-cha push not political — Garbin

A LAWMAKER on Monday defended a push to amend the country’s 1987 Constitution, saying his proposal would be limited to easing economic restrictions and would not affect political provisions, amid concerns over possible broader changes.

Resolution of Both Houses No. 1 does not seek to touch upon the Charter’s political provisions, such as the country’s form of government nor politicians’ term limits, said Party-list Rep. Alfredo A. Garbin, Jr., who authored the initiative.

“This is not a political maneuver,” he said in a statement. “It is a focused, calibrated move to lift legal barriers that have long stood in the way of economic prosperity.”

“The resolution targets provisions that have long discouraged foreign investment, hindered global partnerships, and stifled national development,” he added.

Mr. Garbin last week submitted a proposal that seeks to insert the phrase “unless otherwise provided by law,” allowing Congress to relax the 40% cap on foreign ownership in sectors such as public utilities, education, mass media and the exploitation of natural resources.

His proposal also seeks to amend Article 1 of the Constitution by including “exclusive economic zone” and “continental shelf” in defining the country’s national territory.

Charter change (Cha-cha) efforts have been a recurring theme in Philippine politics, but previous attempts have always faltered due to lack of public support, driven in part by concerns about political motives.

Mr. Garbin said those opposing Cha-cha should not resort to spreading misinformation just to smother support for his proposal. “If you oppose the amendments, campaign against them. That’s your right. But let us not resort to fearmongering or misinformation.” — Kenneth Christiane L. Basilio