Mixed signals on longer Noy term

MANILA, Philippines - President Aquino does not intend to seek a second term and remains opposed to Charter change, which is needed to lift his one-term limit.

But he listens to his “bosses” – the people – “as a matter of principle,” his spokesman said yesterday, fueling speculation that Aquino is open to serving another term.

Presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda, however, quickly stressed that a term extension had never been discussed by Aquino and his Cabinet.

“The President is sensitive to the voice of his bosses, so let us just wait for it,” Lacierda said.

Members of Aquino’s Cabinet have reportedly relayed the sentiments of the people about Aquino serving beyond 2016 when his term ends, now that reforms have taken place and there is a need to sustain the momentum.

But when asked if this meant Aquino was open to amending the 1987 Constitution that prohibits presidents from seeking re-election, Lacierda said the issue has not been discussed in the Cabinet.

“This is not something that we have discussed seriously, knowing fully well his stand on Charter change,” he said, referring to Aquino’s being adamant against amending the Constitution.

“My statement was the President listens to the voice of his bosses – as a matter of general principle, not specific to any issue,” Lacierda clarified.

Aquino had also repeatedly made clear his opposition to constitutional amendments, whether to open up prohibitive economic provisions to entice foreign investors or to extend his term beyond June 2016.

”There are a number of people who expressed their sentiment for another term. There has been no discussion on that, but like I said, the President listens to the voice of his bosses,” Lacierda said.

He said it was quite speculative to delve on such issues at this point.

”I can’t answer that question. It’s very, very speculative,” he replied, when asked what would they do if some 10 million Filipinos want Aquino to seek re-election.

UNA: LP behind moves

An official of the opposition United Nationalist Alliance (UNA) said in the wake of the Supreme Court ruling that declared the controversial Disbursement Acceleration Program (DAP) as unconstitutional, Liberal Party (LP) leaders are again pushing Aquino to violate the Constitution by asking the Chief Executive to seek another term in 2016

– Jose Rodel Clapano, Christina Mendez, Danny Dangcalan