By Brian Jules Campued
Leaders of the House of the Representatives on Sunday welcomed the results of a survey that showed majority support for Charter Change (Cha-Cha) at 52%, with Speaker Martin Romualdez reiterating his commitment to push for the amendment of the Constitution’s restrictive provisions.
Released on March 22, Tangere’s survey results revealed that 14% of Filipinos “strongly agree” with the Cha-Cha while 38% “somewhat agree”.
On the other hand, 13% said they “somewhat disagree” and 10% said they “strongly disagree”—with the remaining 25% expressing uncertainty on whether to support or oppose the proposed constitutional amendments.
In a statement, Romualdez said that research firm Tangere’s poll results indicate a “growing acceptance and willingness” among Filipinos to consider constitutional reform.
“We are determined to sustain this momentum and collaborate with all parties involved to realize the constitutional amendments that will pave the way for a more prosperous, just, and equitable future for the Philippines,” he added.
The Speaker likewise underscored his “conviction” to advance the House’s legislative responsibilities, recalling that the Committee of the Whole has thoroughly discussed the proposed revisions with experts and resource persons.
“These efforts affirm that our legislative process is aligned with the people’s evolving views and needs. These discussions have not only deepened our parliamentary debates but have also ensured that the push for constitutional reform is rooted in well-informed and comprehensive public discourse,” he said.
House Majority Leader and Zamboanga City Rep. Manuel Jose Dalipe also highlighted the “widespread recognition” for Cha-Cha among Filipinos as it signifies the need for change and reform.
“It is encouraging to see that a majority of our citizens are in favor of Cha-cha, signaling a collective desire for progress and improvement,” Dalipe said.
House Deputy Speaker and Quezon 2nd District Rep. David Suarez said the “overwhelming support” for Cha-Cha shows a testament to the Filipino people’s desire for meaningful reforms.
House Deputy Majority Leader and Iloilo 1st District Rep. Janette Garin stressed that the findings of the survey provide a clear mandate for action among House members to advance Cha-Cha initiatives in Congress.
“We in the House stand ready to translate the will of the Filipino people into tangible legislative reforms that will benefit our nation for generations to come,” Garin said.
Meanwhile, Senior Deputy Speaker and Pampanga 3rd District Rep. Aurelio Gonzales Jr. called on the Senate to pass the Resolution of Both Houses (RBH) No. 6 upon the resumption of the session on April 29 since the House had already approved its version, the RBH7 last week.
“Our good Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez delivered on his promise to approve the proposals before Holy Week. That’s leadership,” said Gonzales, adding that Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri “made a similar commitment but failed to do it.”
The House of Representatives had already approved its version, the RBH No. 7, on March 20—with 288 lawmakers voting in favor of the economic amendments to the Constitution, while eight voted in the negative and two abstained.
The RBH7 proposes revisions on the grant of legislative franchises to and ownership of public utilities in Article XII (60-40), ownership of basic educational institutions in Article XIV (60-40), and ownership of advertising companies in Article XVI (70-30). – avds