Solon wary over phrase used in House panel-approved Cha-cha reso

Some of the economic provisions laid out in the Charter change resolution that was approved by a House panel may result to "instability," according to Bayan Muna Representative Carlos Isagani Zarate on Friday.

In an interview on Dobol B sa News TV, Zarate said the phrase "unless otherwise provided by law" was proposed to be inserted in some provisions, including the one which covers the Filipinos' exclusive use and enjoyment of the country's exclusive economic zone.

He said that this deserves attention, especially amid the territorial dispute between the Philippines and China over the West Philippine Sea.

"Parang napaka-inosente lang, wala naman silang sinabi na 100% foreign-owned pero as I mentioned earlier that's a policy of the Constitution," Zarate said.

He said that sections regarding ownership of lands, exploitation of natural resources, and ownership of public utilities were also proposed to contain the same critical phrase.

"Kapag pinayagan natin 'yan ngayon— granting na lumusot ito sa plenary, sa Senado, at referendum nanalo din—ang next Congress after 2022, Congress can otherwise that policy na nakalagay sa ating Constitution kasi 'unless otherwise provided,' nagiging transactional," he added.

Zarate stressed that the phrase, defended by proponents as something that can be used for "flexibility," can make the Constitution too pliable.

"Ang lalabas niyan, there's no stability dahil each Congress can pass its own law, bagu-baguhin kung ano ang nakalagay na Constitutional policy," he said.

The lawmaker also said that re-establishing economic protectionism is becoming a global trend, citing the path taken by the US and Germany. Hence, he said, the Philippines should be mindful too in opening its economy to foreign countries.

"Hindi naman natin sinasabing hindi sila mag-iinvest. There are lang areas of our economy na talagang gusto natin maproteksyunan," he added.

The House Committee on Constitutional Amendments approved on Wednesday a resolution amending the 1987 Constitution.

Included in the changes it seeks to take effect is relaxing the restrictions on foreign ownership of public utilities, mass media, exploration of natural resources, advertising, and education, among others. —Dona Magsino/KBK, GMA News