Sigaw draws up list of senatorial bets for 2007 elections

It seems the Charter change advocate group Sigaw ng Bayan is mulling a "Plan C" in announcing its senatorial slate for the May 2007 elections — in case their mission to amend the Constitution before next year’s election fails.

Even principal Charter change advocate Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr. conceded the possibility of defeat.

"The elections (in May) will push through as scheduled once the plebiscite is lost," De Venecia said.

De Venecia though maintained there is a good chance that their initiative to convene Congress into a constituent assembly (con-ass) will finally succeed.

"I think we have a good chance. Let the event tell us in its final hour," he said.

He said their efforts to convene Congress into a con-ass is still on track, pointing out the timetable for next week, in the efforts to put up a new Charter before Congress goes on Christmas break on Dec. 21.

Sigaw, on the other hand, said they are still hoping for a reversal of the ruling made by the Supreme Court on their people’s initiative petition in a second motion for reconsideration to be filed on Dec. 7.

"We will not give up, we will continue to pursue our political objective which is Constitutional reform primarily for a shift to parliamentary system of government," said Sigaw spokesman Raul Lambino.

Lambino, however, revealed Sigaw had drafted an initial list of senatorial candidates they will support should their legal struggle not succeed.

Lambino said the possible senatorial candidates include Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, Sen. Edgardo Angara, Tarlac Rep. Gilbert Teodoro, League of Municipalities spokesman Mayor Gerry Espina, Presidential chief of staff Michael Defensor, Ambassador Roy Cimatu, lawyer Mela Bengzon, Bukidnon Rep. Miguel Zubiri, Surigao Rep. Prospero Pichay, and broadcast journalist Pinky Webb.

"Sigaw will convince them (prospective senatorial candidates) at the proper time, which is after (the) New Year," he said.

Lambino said the nationwide network of Sigaw will also support local candidates who had been supportive of their advocacy.

Lambino added Sigaw will also scout for other personalities to fill up the remaining slots in the senatorial line up for the coming national elections.

Barbers, for his part, welcomed the nomination by Sigaw, saying the group is a force to be reckoned with in their gargantuan effort of gathering 6.3 million signatures to support their cause.

Should Sigaw pursue its move to join the electoral race, Barbers said they would become "the third force" in the coming elections.

Espina also welcomed the support of Sigaw but said he will have to consult his supporters and family members before accepting the senatorial nomination. "This needs a lot of thinking," he said.

Lambino, however, clarified their support for the senatorial bets is an alternative plan against the possibility of losing their final battle before the Supreme Court. — With Cecille Suerte Felipe