INTERIOR and Local government spokesperson Usec. Jonathan Malaya said he fully supports Senator-elect Robin Padilla as Chair of the Inter-Agency Task Force on Constitutional Reform.
In a statement, Malaya said the department fully supports Padilla in his forthcoming responsibility as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Constitutional Amendments.
“We believe that Senator Robin is the best person to lead this critical committee because he understands the flaws of the 1987 Constitution and why we need to face this problem head-on if we are to progress as a nation. Towards this end, we commit to provide the good senator with the technical support and assistance he needs to succeed as Chairman.”
“We commend him for taking on the hard task of reforming the Constitution despite the risks and controversy it generates. The proponents are sometimes looked upon by some quarters with suspicion or branded as opportunists impelled by vested interests. This is a view fanned by critics who would rather politicize the issue rather than engaging in an intelligent and well-informed debate on the proposed changes being sought.”
Malaya added that the agency join Padilla in his stand on current Constitution needs to be reformed now.
“Thirty-five years after it was ratified, it is time to give it a new and closer look, not in the spirit of carping or disdainful criticism, but in a sincere effort to make it responsive to the demands of our times. We believe he is the best person to lead this effort in the Senate.”
Malaya said Padilla’s call for constitutional reform will be an opportunity to re-examine the changing nature and requirements of Philippine society.
“It will expose the public to arguments for or against the proposed amendments and we will be a better nation for it,” he added.
