JDV vows: ’04 polls to push through

The presidential elections in 2004 will push through as scheduled, and Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr. has vowed to join street protests if the polls are postponed.

"The 2004 elections will definitely push through," De Venecia told The STAR yesterday.

He issued the statement even as congressmen filed a resolution setting in motion an initiative to amend the 1987 Constitution through a constituent assembly.

President Arroyo has expressed opposition to the initiative.

Critics have said the President has been offered by Charter change (Cha-cha) proponents a term extension of three years if the 2004 elections were postponed as the nation shifts to a parliamentary form of government.

De Venecia denied this and said the Lakas-NUCD wanted a mandate for the President, who was installed through people power and is serving out the three and a half years left in her predecessor’s term.

"We are ready to do battle in 2004," De Venecia said. "I will personally join street protests if the polls are postponed."

He denied he was interested in becoming prime minister in case the country shifts to a parliamentary form of government.

If ever Charter change is approved, De Venecia said, the person who will win the presidency in 2004 will serve a full six-year term.