House Majority Leader Mannix Dalipe on Tuesday said the alignment of the Senate and the House in revising the Constitution not only exemplifies legislative cooperation but also reinforces Congress’ dedication to advancing the welfare of the country.
In a statement, Dalipe commended the Senate for recognizing the urgency and importance of amending the economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution, reflecting their commitment to national governance.
“In an extraordinary development for our nation, the Senate has finally seen the light, embracing the House’s longstanding belief in the necessity of constitutional amendments,” Dalipe said. “This newfound unity between the two legislative bodies signifies a significant stride forward for our country.”
Dalipe highlighted the strong and growing consensus among legislators on the importance of these constitutional changes, as Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri expressed confidence that he will get three-fourths or 18 votes out of the 24-member legislative body to approve the measure.
Dalipe said the entire House leadership remains committed to working hand-in-hand with the Senate to realize these significant legislative changes.
“We are encouraged by the Senate’s acknowledgement of the House’s position and look forward to collaborating closely to ensure the effective passage and implementation of these constitutional amendments,” he added.
Zubiri filed on Monday Senate Resolution of Both Houses No. 6, which proposes amendments to Articles XII, XIV and XVI of the charter following President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive for the Senate to lead the discussion of amending the economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution.
Specified in the resolution filed by Zubiri are the proposed amendments to Section 11 of Article XII or the National Patrimony and Economy; Paragraph 2, Section 4 of Article XIV or the Education, Science and Technology, Arts, Culture, and Sports; and Paragraph 2, Section 11 of Article XVI or the General Provisions.
The Senate leadership is set to create a subcommittee that will discuss the proposed amendments to be chaired by Senator Sonny Angara.
Zubiri said the discussions on the amendments will start this month and will conclude by March this year.
Speaker Martin Romualdez, for his part, said he supports the Senate’s initiative to file a resolution that will be adopted by the House to amend the economic provisions of the Constitution.
Romualdez believes that the synergy between the Senate and the House in passing this Resolution will send a strong signal of unity and purpose. (PNA)
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