QC councilor files resolution backing amending economic provisions in Constitution

MANILA, Philippines — A Quezon City alderman has asked his peers at the local council to support a resolution from both houses of Congress that seeks to amend the economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution.

The congressional resolution batting for charter change was filed July 2013 by former Quezon City mayor and now House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. It was recently approved by the House committee on constitutional amendments.

In his proposed resolution, District 3 Councilor Allan Benedict Reyes said that the amendments to the Constitution would only be on certain economic provisions under Articles XII pertaining to national economy and patrimony; XIV on education, science and technology, arts, culture and sports; and XVI or general provisions.

Belmonte had proposed that the phrase “unless otherwise provided by law” be added to certain provisions in the articles particularly in those limiting the land and business ownership of foreigners, which would enable Congress to enact laws that would modify or lift the restrictions.

The draft measure states: “In order to realize the full benefit of inclusive growth, the Quezon City government shares the conviction of Speaker Feliciano Belmonte that the restrictive economic provisions in the 1987 Philippine Constitution hamper the flow of foreign capital investments and must be lifted to enable Congress to pass new laws on matters of foreign ownership of lands, areas of investments, educational institutions, media and advertising organizations and the operation of public utilities in the country.”

It further states that with the President enjoying the nation’s trust and confidence, particularly in his sincere efforts in institutionalizing government reforms, it is now the ideal time to amend the economic provisions of the Constitution.

Once confirmed by the council, a copy of the resolution will be furnished the offices of the President, Speaker Belmonte, and the Senate President.

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