Cha-Cha largely opposed in forum

CEBU, Philippines - There was more opposition than agreement to Charter Change when the Committee on Constitutional Amendments conducted its second leg of nationwide public consultation and information campaigns in Cebu yesterday. 

The first was in Cagayan De Oro City.

Representatives from different sectors in society, government employee organizations and students were present to air their opinions to the proposed amendments of the economic provisions of the 1987 Philippine Constitution. Outside the Capitol, members of the Panaghugpong Kadamay shouted that they are against Charter Change.

Julian Libato, the vice chairman of the group, said in an interview that amending the economic provision of the law will eventually lead to the changing of the entire Constitution.

“Second, if magnegosyo na ang mga foreigner diri, kumpitensya na. Daghan mawagtangan ug trabaho,” Libato said.

He also said public schools that will soon be owned by foreigners will most likely engage in capitalization. Freedom of expression, Libato further said, will also be curtailed.

“Unsa na ma’y mahimo sa mga yano intawon?” he said.

At the Capitol social hall where the public hearing was held, many of those who were given time to speak their views on the matter expressed opposition to Charter Change.

Bayan Muna Rep. Neri Javier Colmenares, who was among the congressmen to speak, said global and historical experiences have affirmed the development bankruptcy of neo-liberal “free market” economics.

“The country’s backwardness is not due to the lack of foreign investment but because of the lack of real policies on agrarian reform and national industrialization,” Colmenares said.

Former Cebu vice governor Enrique Rama also opposed the amendments.

The hearing later turned out to be emotional as representatives from other sectors, such as the academe and non-government organizations, spoke for what they believed.

Those who were not able to speak were advised by Misamis Occidental Rep. Loreto Ocampos to just submit their respective petitions.

The 1987 Philippine Constitution is perceived to contain economic provisions that constrict the inflow of investments and much needed capital for the economy.

In view of this, the Committee on Constitutional Amendments premised the country lagged behind its neighboring countries in terms of economic standing.

“To boost the economy, we need to attract foreign investors but certain provisions in the Constitution have to be improved,” their press release read.

The House Committee on Constitutional Amendments, mandated to deliberate matters relating to the amendment of the Constitution, is currently deliberating proposal seeking to improve state policies particularly the provisions that limit foreign participation in industries and businesses.

Subjects of discussion were the specific proposals such as the removal of the 60 percent/40 percent equity limitations on foreign investments, removal of exclusive control and management by Filipinos in companies with foreign equities and expansion of the role of foreign investments in the exploration.

Also, development and utilization of natural resources, allowing foreign ownership of industrial lands, liberalization of media by allowing foreign investments in media, liberalization of the practice of profession in accordance with the principle of reciprocity, liberalization of investments in tertiary education and the extension of the land lease agreement from 25 years to 50 years.

“In line with the government’s thrust of reform, transparency and accountability, now is the best opportune time to introduce the much-needed reforms in the Charter,” the committee said. — (FREEMAN)