Term extension for solons? Ask people first, says Palace

The House of Representatives. INQUIRER FILE

MANILA, Philippines—Malacañang on Thursday said a survey on public sentiment should be done first before lawmakers move to extend their congressional term.

“I think they should conduct a survey on the sentiments of the people, whether or not they agree on that proposal. And I’m sure since that has been floated, there will be opinions being expressed by many sectors,” Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo said in a Palace briefing.

Panelo was reacting to the proposal of Taguig Rep. Alan Peter Cayetano to extend lawmakers’ term.

Cayetano, President Duterte’s bet for Speaker, claimed that the three-year term for Congressmen is too short and should be extended to four or five years.

Lawmakers are currently elected with a three-year term and can serve for only three consecutive terms.

Meanwhile, Senators can serve for two consecutive six-year terms.

The Palace official, however, clarified that the matter is up to the wisdom of lawmakers.

“The decision will always lie on the members of Congress because they are the ones passing the bill…we will leave it to the judgment of the members of Congress,” he said./ac