MANILA, Philippines — Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra is frowning at initiatives for the creation of a revolutionary government.
“Given the objective of setting aside and disregarding the present Constitution to promulgate a new one under the auspices of a so-called revolutionary government, I certainly do not agree with, much less share such calls, in my capacity as a lawyer, as justice secretary, and as an ordinary Filipino citizen,” Guevarra told reporters Tuesday.
He said the two revolutionary governments established in the Philippines – the one in 1897 against the Spanish colonial and the other in 1986 where the government has lost the support of the majority of the people – were both marred by some form of violence.
“Nothing of that sort obtains under the present circumstances,” Guevarra said pointing out that the Constitution is well in place, all political institutions are functioning normally and the Chief Executive enjoys the support of the majority of the people.
“If the objective of the proponents is to effect constitutional changes, the same may be accomplished without resorting to extra-constitutional way,” Guevarra said referring to the procedure stated under the 1987 Constitution.
“Impatience is not a ground to overthrow a constitutional government and replace it with one whose undefined powers are not derived from the sovereign will of the people,” he said adding that any complaint about inciting to sedition will be seriously investigated by the DOJ. [ac]
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