The House of Representatives’ attempt to amend the country’s primary charter via constitutional convention is only one step away from making it to the Senate.
The mark of a big step follows the House’s approval on the second reading on Tuesday of Resolution of Both Houses 6, which calls for a con-con to propose amendments to, or revision of, the 1987 Constitution, particularly its economic provisions.
The measure was carried viva voce, notwithstanding Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman’s motion to terminate the debate because he believes neither the House nor the Senate can address constitutional matters independently.
Prior to the bill’s passage, Iloilo Rep. Lorenz Defensor moved to amend the measure’s phrasing to state that the proposed modifications to the existing Constitution would concern its economic provisions.
The House constitutional amendments panel chair, Cagayan de Oro Rep. Rufus Rodriguez, also a con-con proponent, approved the proposal, saying it was brought up during public consultations.
Rodriguez’s panel approved an unnumbered bill on Monday, which will be the enabling statute implementing the RBH 6, should it muster enough political backing.
Proposals to amend the Constitution have lobbied again at the table, with the House remaining steadfast, albeit numerous senators voicing opposition that amending the Constitution through con-con is too expensive.