100 House members may withdraw support for constituent assembly

SAN JOSE CITY, Nueva Ecija, Philippines – A neophyte administration congressman here said he and around 100 of his colleagues have agreed to withdraw support for Charter change through constituent assembly if the proposed amendments go beyond economic provisions and pave the way for an extended term for President Arroyo.

Rep. Joseph Gilbert Violago told The STAR that many of the lawmakers who signed House Resolution 1109 on con-ass did so because they wanted certain economic provisions in the Charter amended.

“Yon ang napag-usapan (That’s what we talked about). Beyond that, term extension or what, many will back out and withdraw support for con-ass,” said Violago, a member of Lakas-Kampi-CMD.

Violago said those who would likely withdraw support for con-ass are neophyte congressmen like himself. “They are highly idealistic and would likely block moves to amend the Charter beyond the economic provisions,” he said.

He said one of those who made the commitment was Rep. Rodolfo Antonino, also of Nueva Ecija and a staunch ally of Mrs. Arroyo.

Palace critics have expressed fears that administration lawmakers might use the joint session on July 27 for Mrs. Arroyo’s State of the Nation Address to convene Congress into a constituent assembly.

Violago said that while some supporters of the con-ass resolution conceded that there is very little time for Cha-cha, the issue would be calendared upon the resumption of session.

He said when it comes to extension of terms, the best mode is through a constitutional convention which is preferred by many congressmen. He said that an ideal setup is electing con-con delegates in the 2010 elections.

“The problem is the Senate has taken a hardline position. They would never allow it,” he said.

Violago said that if he would have his way, he would push for amendments to the existing political system. He said changes are needed in the multiparty system, in the election of senators and in the terms of office of local and national officials.