Federalism: More power vs monopolies proposed

The body crafting proposed charter amendments would vote on a proposal to form a constitutional body with the sole power under a federal system of government to stop monopolies and cartels and ensure fair trade competition.

The 22 members of the consultative committee, headed by former Chief Justice Reynato Puno, will vote on the proposals next week.

Consultative committee member Arthur Aguilar, who heads the subcomittee on economic reforms, said the new Charter would need stronger provisions against “inefficient market structures that restrain fair competition.”

The 1987 Constitution, he said, has only one section devoted to monopolies and fair trade.

Aguilar said the Philippine Competition Commission, created by law in 2016, may also be given more powers under a federal government. —Dona Z. Pazzibugan