Manila — The Filipino people will have the last say on whether to ratify or throw out any proposal to amend the Constitution, Press Secretary Jesus G. Dureza said.
In an interview over DzBB, Dureza reminded that Congress can only propose amendments to the Constitution. and that the ultimate decision on any proposed changes is up to the people who will ratify or reject the proposal in a plebiscite.
Dureza also riterated that the Palace’s stand on charter change was clear, even as he asked the people to allow Congress to settle the issue.
Dureza branded as pure misconception claims that President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo intends to extend her term beyond 2010 via Charter Change (Cha-Cha). “The President has no intention to stay in office (Presidency) beyond the constitutional term, which will end in 2010,” Dureza added.
“The Palace does not interfere with the work of other co-equal branches of government, such as Congress, Dureza said. He added it was unfair to say that the House of Representatives were under anybody’s thumb.
“You know, that institution (Congress) has its own internal strength; it has its own function. So, ipaubaya na natin sa institusyon na ‘yan ang kanilang trabaho habang ang Palasyo ay nakatutok din dito sa focus ng ating Pangulo, for governance up to 2010 (Let us allow this institution to do their job while the President and her administration focuses on her governance until 2010),” Dureza said.
Dureza was also asked whether Malacanang was concerned that any moves toward charter change would be met by demonstrations similar to those in Bangkok, where protests crippled Thailand’s capital.
In reply, the Press Secretary said that the Palace was following legal and Constitutional processes. He said that other sectors should do the same and not resort to extra legal measures. Dureza said stability of the country could beensured if the rule of law of law and the Constitution was followed. (PIA-MMIO)
