QC council backs Belmonte’s economic Cha-cha

MANILA, Philippines - Amid the controversy sparked by President Aquino’s declaration of his openness to having political provisions in the Constitution changed, the Quezon City council has approved a resolution voicing support for Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr.’s initiating amendments to the economic provisions.

In a resolution approved on Monday, the council said it shares the conviction of Belmonte that the restrictive economic provisions of the Constitution must be lifted to help the country realize the full benefit of inclusive growth.

Belmonte is the city’s fourth district representative and former three-term mayor. He is the father of Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte, presiding officer of the city council.

Through the resolution, authored by third district councilor Allan Benedict Reyes, the council said the proposed amendments to the Charter would enable Congress “to pass new laws on matters of foreign ownership of lands, areas of investments, educational institutions, media and advertising organizations and the operation of public utilities in the country.”

The council said the “trust and confidence” the people have bestowed on the President – particularly on his having institutionalized reforms – “are clear indications that now is the right time to amend the economic provisions of the Constitution.” 

Earlier, Belmonte filed Resolution of Both Houses that seeks to include the phrase “unless otherwise provided by law” to certain Charter provisions concerning national economy and patrimony; education, science and technology; arts, culture and sports, and the general provisions.

The council noted that the amendment indicates that the current restrictions will remain in place until Congress acts to amend them.

The House committee on constitutional amendments approved Belmonte’s measure on March 5.

This development came amid concerns that pro-administration lawmakers would work for amendments to the political provisions of the Constitution to allow a second term for the President.