Caritas Philippines, the social action arm of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), called on the government to focus on strengthening the foundation of society's basic services, anti-corruption, and programs for the marginalized rather than pursuing charter change.
"Any attempt to alter the Constitution, especially when shrouded in secrecy and lacking genuine public participation, raises serious concerns about its true motives," Caritas Philippines President Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo said in a statement on Friday, Jan. 12.
Bagaforo warned against treating the Constitution as a "political football" and emphasized the need for transparent and inclusive processes from those in "power."
He stressed that instead of seeking solutions in constitutional revisions, the government should tackle the country's real challenge — corruption.
"Poverty will always be a problem if corruption is allowed to fester within our government," he stated.
Meanwhile, Fr. Antonio Labiao, Jr., Executive Director of Caritas Philippines, emphasized the urgent need for a comprehensive mining reform law.
He criticized Congress' long-standing "failure to act" on this critical matter, stating that "the Philippines needs a comprehensive mining reform law that protects our environment and the rights of local communities."
Labiao also called for an "anti-dynasty" law to break the grip of political dynasties on the Philippine government.
"The Filipino people deserve leaders who are chosen based on merit, not family connections," Labiao said.
"A genuine anti-dynasty law is crucial to break the stranglehold of political dynasties on our democracy," he added.
He further explained that ensuring the integrity of elections is key to combating manipulation and vote-buying— and can only be achieved through "reforms guaranteeing fair and transparent elections."
Caritas' statement also echoes the CBCP's opposition to charter change initiatives.
Moreover, the bishop reiterated the CBCP's position that any constitutional revisions should prioritize the "defense and promotion of the moral values of human dignity and human rights, integrity and truth, participation and solidarity, and the common good."
"The CBCP has always taught that 'If the Constitution is to be revised at all, the process should lead to a greater defense and promotion of the moral values of human dignity and human rights, integrity and truth, participation and solidarity, and the common good," the statement added.