GMA's perceived run for Congress, uncontestable

MANILA, Philippines - The Constitution and Election laws guarantee the right of every Filipino citizen to vote or be voted upon for a political position to which he/she is qualified. Further, “No literacy, property, or other substantive requirement shall be imposed on the exercise of suffrage”.

It is unquestionable that GMA is not disqualified to run for any elective position except for President (Section 4, Art. III, 1987 Constitution). It is her right, if she so desires, to run for Congresswoman in the Second District of Pampanga. No one can question the exercise of that right. It is her fundamental right.

Whether there is clamor or not for her to run for Congress, is immaterial to the exercise of that right. Anyone qualified, may challenge her. That is also the right of any challenger.

Of course, some Pampanguenos would rather not see her run for any lower position, she having been elevated already to the highest position of the land. This sector of Pampangueno community, just like other Filipinos who share the same sentiments prefer to remember and address her “Madam President”. Generally, public officials are remembered by the last position they have occupied. The dignified and honorable appellation “Madam President” may be eclipsed by an appellation lower in degree and import. Hence, this sector which I call conservative sector – simply desires the maintenance of the reverential name and reputation of GMA as the 14th President of the Republic of the Philippines – which rings an international impact and halo. This is a sentiment of strong love and high respect for GMA.

On the other hand, there is the sector which encourages GMA to seek the position of Congresswoman in her district in the May 2010 elections. I call this the progressive sector in Pampanga in particular and in the country as a whole. The multitude and scores of this sector are followers and fans of GMA. They believe in the intellectual capability and ability of GMA; they believe in her advocacies and leadership; they believe that if she was not able to accomplish her dream to improve to the hilt the economy, peace and order, health, education and other facets of the public service and governance, it is because of some restraints in the fundamental law of the land which need some amendment or revision. The progressive sector believes that if she becomes a member of Congress, she could spearhead the move for the dreamed amendment or revision of the Constitution. Nothing is illegal or immoral, if GMA is motivated by such aspiration. It is a commendable and noble one. It is for the people.

Anent the issue of whether or not the President is deemed resigned from the presidency once she files her candidacy for Congresswoman in Pampanga – the same is a moot question. There is no more law which mandates resignation from office when an elective public official files a certificate of candidacy.

Contrary to what was stated by Henry Giron of the “Article 64 Movement”, that “if she (GMA) runs for a legislative post that would mean she no longer wants to be in the executive department.” Giron’s argument is misplaced because assuming that GMA files her certificate of candidacy this month, it does not mean that she automatically assumes the functions of a legislator and ceases to be President. She will continue performing her duties as President until June 30, 2010. The legislative function will only commence when the new Congress is finally convened.

Giron’s other statement that if GMA will campaign in Pampanga while completing her elective term of office as President is against the public accountability clause of the Constitution is not true. There is no such violation. GMA may campaign if she wants to, but at the same time, she can act with utmost responsibility and efficiency as President. She has a responsible Cabinet at her beck and call at any time. Pampanga is just one hour away from Malacañang.

Besides, she does not need any time-consuming campaign to win in her district. She is idolized by her “Cabalens” whatever her critics say.