Change of plans? Duterte hints at possible shift in ‘Cha-cha’ approach

MANILA, Philippines – President Rodrigo Duterte on Friday indicated a possible shift in the government’s approach in amending the Constitution, a move he had been pushing to give way for the change to a federal form of government.

Speaking in a peace assembly for the ratification of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) in Cotabato City, Duterte raised the idea of amending “not all” but just a “few economic provisions” of the Constitution.

“Much as we would like to change anything there. Pati ‘yung atin dito. We have been used to it. We are the people governed by elections. And we elect leaders. The leaders must be the choice of the people. I am sure that with that – the fundamentals provided by the law and hopefully if you can amend the Constitution, not all, but a few of the economic provisions and some…,” Duterte said.

The President, however, did not disclose further details of his plan as he would like the people to focus on BOL first.

“Well, I do not want to discuss it with you now because ‘yun na ang sunod natin and hindi na ninyo problema ‘yun. Yours would just really be to ask for the law that will further enhance the governance of the Bangsamoro law,” he said.

Since assuming the presidency, Duterte has been pushing for constitutional amendments that would pave the way for the shift to a federal form of government, which he believes would help spur steady progress throughout the country.