Philippine House Targets March Deadline for Charter Economic Amendments

MANILA – The Philippine House of Representatives has affirmed its commitment to vote on proposed amendments to the economic provisions in the country’s 1987 Constitution by the pre-Holy Week recess deadline.

According to Philippines News Agency, there is a concerted effort to expedite the passage of Resolution of Both Houses 7 (RBH 7) to shield it from potential political controversies and misinterpretations. “I personally would want this discussion on the economic provision done before the break for the Holy Week. Actually, that’s the original plan,” Adiong stated, emphasizing the importance of concluding deliberations before Congress adjourns from March 23 to April 28.

Adiong expressed reservations about timing the plebiscite for these constitutional amendments to coincide with the 2025 midterm elections, citing concerns over potential politicization. The aim of fast-tracking the discussion and amendment process, he explained, is to prevent these crucial economic reforms from becoming entangled in election season dynamics and being exploited as campaign material. “This might be used as a campaign slogan,” he cautioned, highlighting the necessity of maintaining the integrity and intended objectives of the administration’s proposals.

The push for amending the economic provisions of the constitution is a clear priority of the Marcos administration, as Adiong pointed out. “It’s very clear that the President wants to push for the changing, amending the provisions in the Constitution particularly the economic provision. So what we’re doing here in the House of Representatives is to translate that priority and policy of this current administration,” he elaborated.

PBA Party-list Representative Margarita Nograles echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the House’s dedication to scrutinizing the economic reforms and engaging with various stakeholders to ensure that the amendments are specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and time-bound. Meanwhile, 1-RIDER Party-list Representative Rodge Gutierrez called on the Senate to expedite its review and approval of its version of the proposed economic amendments under RBH 6 to avoid extending the deliberations beyond the sine die adjournment.

As the legislative body works towards these amendments, the focus remains on enhancing the economic framework of the Philippines to support growth and development, while navigating the challenges of political dynamics and timelines.