Electoral, economic reforms most important items in Cha-cha

A former member of the defunct presidential consultative commission that recommended changes in the 1987 Constitution said reforms in the electoral process and economic liberalization are the most important items that need to be carried out under Charter change.

Unless sweeping changes in the electoral system are crafted in a new Constitution along with the lifting of the so-called protectionist provisions, the prevailing political crisis will forever haunt the Filipino people, according to lawyer Raul Lambino.

"The (1987) Constitution is the embodiment of the past," Lambino said. "(It is) the reflection of the present and the anticipation of the future."

Lambino stressed reforms should be implemented in the electoral system, particularly in the Commission on Elections (Comelec).

"The Comelec is both a judicial and administrative body. Because it decides on election cases, politicians keep toeing its line and that spawns corruption in the system," he said.

Lambino said the present US-style presidential form of government no longer answers the call of the times.

He also said the rigid economic provisions in the 1987 Constitution prevent the inflow of much-needed foreign investment.

"There are certain areas of the Philippine economy that should be liberalized so that foreign capital will come in, generate jobs and income opportunities for the Filipino people," Lambino said.

Lambino lauded the fact that, unlike the previous attempts to introduce amendments to the constitution, people from all walks of life were no longer afraid to talk about Charter change.

"They (the people) are talking about it. This is a healthy sign that people want to be involved in determining the fate and destiny of their country. Regardless of the political persuasion of a person, he must get himself involved in this worthy activity," he said.

Lambino stressed Charter Change is not an issue of personality since amendments to the Constitution will benefit the entire Filipino nation.

Lambino called on liberalizing the educational sector to enable prestigious universities and schools in Europe and the United States to put up branches in the Philippines that will provide opportunities for Filipinos to excel.

He said Singapore has gone ahead of the Philippines in hosting several branches of prominent American and English schools in the city state.

Lambino added that giving the new system a chance to flower and grow roots is a mature way of developing a dispassionate political consciousness among a people formerly colonized by foreign rule for nearly 400 years.

Lambino’s view on electoral reforms and economic liberalization is shared by local officials belonging to the Leagues of Provinces, Cities and Municipalities who are rooting for the complete devolution of local and fiscal autonomy under a new constitution.

Local chief executives led by Eastern Samar Gov. Ben Evardone, Southern Leyte Gov. Rosette Lerias, Bong Plaza of Agusan del Sur, Leonardo Verceles Jr. of Catanduanes, among others, are now embarking on a nationwide signature gathering campaign to amend the Constitution.

The 1,502-strong League of Municipalities headed by Binalonan, Pangasinan Mayor Ramon Guico Jr. and Angono, Rizal Mayor Gerry Calderon is leading the advocates for a people’s initiative campaign to gather six million signatures nationwide.

The mayors stressed the people’s initiative mode is the most peaceful and democratic way to amend the constitution.