PNoy suggests non-consecutive terms for PHL presidents

Although he earlier rejected reelection, President Benigno Aquino III on Friday suggested the Philippines consider the possibility of non-consecutive terms for its Presidents.

“Certain countries, like the South American countries, also went through a similar period [of Martial Law]," Aquino told reporters during his state visit in Japan.

"In their constitutions, a sitting president has to step down, but can re-run after the intervention of a different administration. Perhaps that is something that the Philippines can consider,” the President said when asked if he was in favor of extending the six-year term for Philippine presidents.

Aquino said he didn't agree to such suggestions.

He cited the Philippines’ experience under the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos, who declared Martial law when his second term was about to end.

“My answer to those who were espousing an extension of terms was, we will undoubtedly have benefits for having a government that will not have to re-learn how to govern, but at the same time we open the doors to somebody who might emulate Mr. Marcos and decide not to leave the office forever,” Aquino said

“I think that is a very serious risk that our country, or my country, has to avoid,” he added.

Section 4, Article VII of the 1987 Constitution prohibits the reelection of an incumbent president and limits his or her term to six years.

Although he earlier toyed with the idea of a second term as president, Aquino late last year shut his doors on reelection, saying it “is not the right solution” to the country’s woes.

The President also said that he has "no intentions of running for any position" during the 2016 national polls. —NB, GMA News