“The Partido Demokratiko Pilipino (PDP) is qualifiedly supportive of Cagayan de Oro second district representative Rufus Rodriguez’s initiative for charter change and his efforts in obtaining feedback from stakeholders regarding such amendments, provided that the same are in good faith and not meant to divert attention away from the pressing concerns of corruption and allegations of drug use and other anomalies in government.
In a statement, PDP deputy spokesman lawyer Ferdinand Topacio said the PDP is also vigorously opposed to any plans to transform the present Congress into a constituent assembly and likewise to any attempt to initiate Constitutional amendments via a people’s initiative.
This is due to the present aberrant political climate which will definitely render both modes rife for malevolent manipulation and insidious influences from those who would exploit and control the process for their own selfish and solipsistic agenda.
Topacio it is the PDP’s stand that any change in the Fundamental Law should be undertaken through a Constitutional Convention, where duly elected representatives of the people can craft a constitution that is responsive to present-day realities and more aligned with the needs of the people and our Republic.
“On this score, the PDP shall fully participate in order to convert our system of government to one that is parliamentary in nature consistent with our platform that such is the best form of government that will bring true progress and prosperity to our country,” Topacio said.
