Charter change is absolutely necessary for our country at this time. The 1986 Constitution was a stirring reaction to 20 years of authoritarian regime. A pluralistic politics and entitlement-laden citizenry in a new and revived democracy was established. As a result, we witnessed a proliferation of political parties and sectoral parties, grant of free high schooling, Magna Carta of rights in favor of various sectors, and other welfare measures. The Duterte administration has chosen charter change as the centerpiece of its reform agenda. And that appears undoubtedly the call of the time. Amending the Constitution is a transcendental event. Hence, the country should employ its best – from bright young thinkers to wise old-timers – working long and thinking fulltime how to improve our future. Yet the country doesn’t have the luxury of time and people have high expectations. Consequently, the nation cannot be drawn needlessly into endless debate and [...]
