WITH President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr.’s clear and unequivocal stand against the restrictive provisions of the 1987 Constitution, Deputy Speaker and Quezon Rep. David “JayJay” Suarez on Friday urged the Senate to act with dispatch on the Resolution of Both Houses No. 6 that aims to amend such restraining Charter provisions.
Suarez said the Senate must prioritize the urgent need for economic constitutional reform and heed the call of the President to enact the necessary amendments to its economic provisions.
“It is high time for the Senate to prove whether they are genuine partners in nation-building or mere obstructionists. The passage of RBH No. 6 is a litmus test of their commitment to meaningful reforms that will benefit the Filipino people,” Suarez said after President Marcos underscored the need to amend the restrictive economic provisions of the Charter during the Philippine Constitution Association (Philconsa) Constitution Day last Thursday.
“The successful passage of RBH No. 6 will not only validate the efforts of the administration to promote economic development but also vindicate the aspirations of millions of Filipinos for a better and brighter future,” he added.
“It is our collective responsibility as legislators to rise above partisan interests and work together towards the common goal of building a more prosperous and resilient Philippines.”
President Marcos Jr. earlier stated that the restrictive economic provisions of the Constitution hinder the entry of foreign investments into the country and, in turn, its fast economic growth.
“The President’s call for constitutional reform is a bold and visionary step toward unlocking the full potential of our economy and ensuring sustainable growth and development for all Filipinos. It is both a validation and vindication of our position here in the House to push for amendments to the Constitution,” Suarez said.
“By amending restrictive economic provisions, we can create a more conducive environment for business and entrepreneurship, spur innovation and competition and generate more jobs and opportunities for our people,” he expressed.
Suarez said the proposed amendments to the economic provisions of the Constitution, particularly through Resolution of Both Houses (RBH) No. 6, represent a crucial opportunity to level the playing field and promote inclusive economic growth.
“These amendments seek to lift restrictions on foreign ownership and investment in key sectors such as telecommunications, media and utilities, among others, thereby enhancing our competitiveness and positioning the Philippines as an attractive destination for foreign direct investment,” the Quezon House leader said.
“I urge my colleagues in the Senate to set aside political differences and prioritize the national interest by supporting the passage of RBH No. 6. Let us seize this historic opportunity to enact meaningful reforms that will pave the way for a stronger, more competitive, and more inclusive economy for generations to come,” Suarez said.
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