Aquino firm on stand vs Charter Change

President Benigno Aquino III INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines—President Benigno Aquino III on Monday thumbed down a current initiative by his allies in Congress to amend the 1987 Constitution, particularly economic provisions in the basic law of the land.

“I don’t agree that it is a solution to grow the economy,” the President told reporters in Malacañang after he led oath-taking rites of officials  that included newly appointed Philippine National Police Director General Nicanor Bartolome.

Mr. Aquino made it clear that his position on Charter change has been “public for such a long time,” as he noted that for so long he had opposed moves to amend the Constitution through a constituent assembly. He also said he did not agree to amend the Constitution just for its economic provisions.

But with Senate and House leaders now dangling to amend the Constitution through a bicameral constituent assembly—perceived to be less contentious than a constituent assembly mode—Mr. Aquino remained firm on his stand against Cha-cha at this time.

He acknowledged that this proposal had been discussed “in passing” by Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile.

“We are in a democratic country, at least all these ideas should be explored. But if I’m going to be asked my personal opinion, I don’t think Cha-cha is a necessary move at this point in time,” Mr. Aquino said.