Benhur sets aside position for charter change in deference to PNoy’s opposition to proposals

CEBU, Philippines - While he agreed that the 1987 Constitution needs amendments, Cebu fourth district Rep. Benhur Salimbangon said their votes will depend on the voice of President Benigno Aquino III.

Salimbangon explained that he is now a member of the majority bloc in the House of Representatives who committed to support the Aquino administration.

Salimbangon belongs to the National Unity Party (NUP) which forged alliance with the ruling Liberal Party on the condition that it will support the administration.

Aquino has already expressed his opposition to changing the economic provisions of the Constitution saying they are not detrimental to getting foreign investments in the country.

“Kung mao, way amendments nga ma-approved,” said Salimbangon at the 888 News Forum at Marco Polo Plaza yesterday.

Among the amendments that Salimbangon wants to propose is the election of senators by region. He also wants to find out why senators have a six-year term while congressmen only have three years.

Salimbangon is also for the abolition of the conduct of elections for the Sangguniang Kabataan saying appointments for these posts are ideal.

Both houses of Congress are set to have a session on July 22.

5th Congress House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. has filed a resolution yesterday seeking to amend the 1987 Constitution.

Ironically, Belmonte is a known ally of President Aquino.

Belmonte, who is expected to regain his position as House Speaker, filed House Joint Resolution No. 1 which proposes amendments to the economic provisions of the charter.

Senator Franklin Drilon, another close ally of Aquino and the man considered to be the next Senate President, had also argued that any charter change proposal from now until 2016 will be futile.

But despite Aquino’s opposition, some lawmakers have already expressed their support for the proposal to amend the Constitution.—(FREEMAN)