Charter Change plan draws mixed reaction from senators

Transcript

00:00 A handful of senators are keeping an open mind on another stab by the lower house in

00:04 changing or amending parts of the constitution.

00:08 And Senator JV Ejercito said it's best if the tweaking the existing economic provisions

00:14 to a more favorable arrangement for the country's economy not a problem, but if it's for term

00:19 limits or political provisions in mind, then the public will shut it down as we hear more

00:25 from our Daniel Manalastas.

00:29 The issue on charter changed through different reactions from the senators.

00:34 Some senators are open to "cha-cha" talks, but some have strong opinions.

00:39 "Cha-cha is always a topic of discussion, especially if we have proper motivations.

00:48 We advocate for federalism.

00:51 So when they say review the constitution, I'm open to that.

00:55 But federalism, not the other agenda.

00:58 The agenda is to open the ownership of land, allow foreigners to have ownership of land

01:07 in the Philippines, open my business, business and natural resources, allow exploitation

01:14 of this."

01:15 Senate Majority Leader Joven Villanueva raised two issues.

01:19 If the timing is right and if the process is correct.

01:22 "We're always open to anything.

01:25 Maybe again, whoever will push this will be the victim if they want to extend their

01:32 term, which is a valid point.

01:35 There have to be more circumspect of the timing."

01:40 Meanwhile Senator JV Ejercito said if it's an economic provision, it might draw support.

01:47 But if it's political provision.

01:48 "Political because if you're not, I don't think people will like that."

01:58 Then for Senator Aimee Marcos.

02:11 Daniel Manalastas for the Nation.