MANILA, Philippines -- President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo's chief political adviser welcomed a move by the administration Lakas Christian Muslim Democrats party to put efforts to rewrite the 1987 Constitution in the backburner.

"We welcome, cheer, and support the assurances of the leaders and Charter (change) proponents in Congress that, whatever route or fate cha cha (Charter change) takes, the elections next year will not be suspended or cancelled and terms of incumbent officials will not be extended," Presidential Political Adviser Gabriel Claudio said.

"The Palace simply maintains its position to leave the fate and disposition of cha cha to Congress. Meanwhile, we are putting on high gear all preparations for the general polls next year, particularly measures to ensure honest, efficient, and credible elections through full automation," he said.

House Speaker and Lakas-CMD President Prospero Nograles had said that Charter change proponents only have until the adjournment sine die of Congress on June 6 to push for their resolutions to amend the Charter.

He said there was not enough time to push for constitutional amendments when Congress resumes sessions in late July, or 10 months before the May 2010 elections.