Improving ratings revive Concord

Apparently buoyed by his improving poll ratings, President Estrada said yesterday he would pursue his Constitutional Correction for Development (Concord).

The President earlier announced he was deferring Concord, a move perceived as an attempt to boost his slipping popularity.

However, his net satisfaction rating has reportedly gone up to 28 percent in the latest poll of Pulse Asia, an independent research outfit.

Mr. Estrada clarified yesterday that what he put on hold was merely Congress' scheduled tackling of the economic amendments re-commended by the Preparatory Commission on Constitutional Reforms chaired by retired Chief Justice Andres Narvasa.

The President said he would tackle first the revenue bills pending in Congress. But he insisted that Concord was a vital issue.

He said the information campaign for Concord would continue, adding that there was a need to explain Charter change to the people so they can see how certain amendments may improve their lives.

"The world is changing, so we must also change. This is what I need to explain to our people. I have to campaign in order to open their minds to this fact, and not the disinformation that Erap will sell all their lands," he said.

Mr. Estrada said he would like to open up the country's economy so foreign investors can put money into mass transport, water and electricity.

"We are way behind our neighbors in terms of public utility industries," he said. --