DAVAO CITY – Former President Rodrigo R. Duterte warned President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. might face removal from office, similar to his late father, former President Ferdinand Marcos Sr., if his administration pushes forward with the People’s Initiative to amend the Constitution.
DUTERTE (Keith Bacongco)
Speaking before a crowd at the candlelight prayer rally here on Sunday, January 28, Duterte urged the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) to observe and learn what the current administration is feeding to the public as part of their responsibility.
“I am calling the AFP and the PNP to protect the Constitution. Trabaho ninyo ‘yan. Huwag na huwag ninyong kalimutan (That’s your job. Don’t ever forget it). When you see what is wrong, correct it,” Duterte said in a profanity-laden speech.
Duterte recalled and briefly discussed the history of the Philippines before the crowd. He vented his disappointment following Marcos and his allies’ intention to amend the Constitution without genuine consultation from the general public.
There are three ways to amend the 1987 Constitution – Congress acting as a Constituent Assembly (Con-Ass); two, Constitutional Convention (Con-Con), and third, PI changes to the Constitution proposed directly by the citizens through an initiative.
PI must have a petition signed by at least 12 percent of the country’s registered voters and each legislative district must have representation from at least 12 percent of its registered voters. No amendment is allowed more often than once every five years after that.
“There is nothing wrong with the Constitution. The environment of the Philippines seems to be positive and okay. I have been doubtful…The People’s Initiative should come from the people, it should originate from the communities, you should not buy it from the people,” Duterte said.
The move for constitutional change, purportedly supported by House Speaker Martin Romualdez, a cousin of the President, is under scrutiny for bribery allegations. First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos allegedly endorsed the initiative.
“I’ve been avoiding this, the time I am compelled to speak against the people in the government. You know, Mr. President, I will not apologize. What you do in this world binds you. Do not blame it on others kasi sarili mong utak at katawan 'yan,” he said.
In a strongly worded statement issued on January 23, 24 senators rejected the House of Representatives proposal, expressing concerns that it clearly indicates potential additional amendments, revisions, or a complete overhaul of the Constitution.
Duterte said Marcos was entering a treacherous territory, emphasizing that advocating for constitutional changes could lead to the nation’s division. He added that if this happens, he would declare independence for Mindanao instead.
The former President again urged Marcos not to push constitutional change, otherwise, there would be chaos. He said if the people’s sentiments could not move him through a peace rally, he would ask the military and police to enter the picture.
“Huwag kayong papaloko, protect the Constitution. I’m calling the AFP and the PNP to protect the Constitution! You should worry about the country. Huwag kayong mag-isip ng isang pamilya lang,” Duterte said.
In a statement on Monday, January 29, former senator and Department of Information and Communications Secretary Gregorio “Gringo” Honasan expressed full support to the people. He said the effects of a divided society, people, and the AFP are unacceptable to every Filipino.
“Mahal ko ang Pilipinas, mahal ko ang mga Pilipino, at hindi ako natatakot na isakripisyo ang aking buhay, gaya ng aking ginawa sa nakaraan. Titindigan ko ito kung ang nakararaming kababayan natin ang patuloy na magdurusa sa gitna ng tensyon political,” Honasan said.
Marcos Sr. was removed from power in the EDSA People Power Revolution in 1986, ending his more than two-decade rule.