Reconsider planned constituent assembly

WE, Makabayan bloc in the House of Representative, express our objection to the proposed constituent assembly. Conass will not be acceptable to the people as they perceive Congress to be dominated by political dynasties and fear that vested and self-serving interests would inevitably influence proposed changes to the Constitution. This is evident in the public outcry against Con-Ass, particularly in social media, which has been fast and furious.

Makabayan will strongly oppose any effort to revise the Constitution that will do away with its protectionist economic provisions, remove the anti-dynasty clause, and lift term limits of elected officials.

We thus urge Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez to reconsider his stance favoring constituent assembly as the mode for amending the Constitution.

Makabayan is open to charter change if it will empower the poor, the oppressed and national minorities, enshrine national industrialization and genuine agrarian reform, and promote equitable distribution of wealth, through a mode acceptable to the people – but certainly not through constituent assembly.

Rep. Carlos Isagani T. Zarate Bayan Muna Party-List

Rep. Antonio L. Tinio ACT Teachers Party-List

Rep. Francisca L. Castro ACT Teachers Party-List

Rep. Emmi A. De Jesus Gabriela Women’s Party

Rep. Arlene D. Brosas Gabriela Women’s Party

Rep. Ariel B. Casilao Anakpawis Party-List

Rep. Sarah Jane L. Elago Kabataan Party-List