Romualdez backs Senate move to amend Constitution's economic provisions

Speaker Martin Romualdez on Monday backed the Senate's decision to pursue amendments to the economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution.

"As Speaker of the House of Representatives, I would like to express my unwavering support for the Senate's initiative to file a Resolution of Both Houses of Congress. This resolution using the mode of Constituent Assembly is a decisive step towards amending the 1987 Constitution, particularly in terms of relaxing the economic provisions that currently restrict the entry of foreign direct investments into the Philippines," Romualdez said.

"Our nation stands on the cusp of transformative economic growth, and it is imperative that we adapt our constitutional framework to the evolving global economic landscape. The amendments proposed are not just timely but necessary to unlock the full potential of our economy, fostering a more competitive, inclusive, and robust economic environment," he added.

The Senate leadership, led by Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri, filed an unnumbered Resolution of Both Houses that seeks to amend the 1987 Constitution, particularly lifting restrictions on foreign ownership of businesses.

Romualdez said in a speech before last year's session break that the House would focus on amending the Constitution in 2024.

But in March 2023, the House adopted Resolution of Both Houses (RBH) 6, which called for a constitutional convention (con-con) to amend the 1987 Constitution.

RBH No. 6 states that a con-con with elected delegates would draft the new constitution - "the most transparent, exhaustive, democratic, and least divisive means of implementing constitutional reforms."

The Resolution on Charter Change filed by the Senate leaders, however, provides for a constituent assembly.

Romualdez on Monday, however, said the House was amenable to the constituent assembly.

“The move to amend the Constitution through a constituent assembly underscores our commitment to a democratic and participatory process. It reflects our collective resolve to address the long-standing barriers that have, to some extent, hindered our nation's progress,” Romualdez said.

In addition, Romualdez believed that the constituent assembly, in which all members of Congress would vote on proposed constitutional amendments, “aligns with the aspirations of the proponents of the ongoing People’s Initiative, who have tirelessly advocated for constitutional reform.”

“Their efforts, born out of a necessity due to previous unsuccessful attempts at amending the Constitution through Congress, highlight the urgent need for these reforms,” Romualdez said.

“We look forward to engaging in constructive discussions and working collaboratively with all stakeholders in this important constitutional endeavor. As Speaker, I assure the Filipino people that their voices will be heard and their interests safeguarded,” he added. — DVM, GMA Integrated News