First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos is revealed as the newest member of the Philippine Constitution Association (Philconsa), a non-stock, nonpartisan organization dedicated to defending, preserving, and protecting the Constitution which serves as the fundamental law of the land.

In a speech during the Philconsa's 63rd Founding Anniversary celebration in Malacañan, House Speaker Martin Romualdez said President Marcos and the First Lady are shining examples of leaders committed to the values Filipinos hold dear.

"Their deep reverence for the rule of law, constitutional governance, and democratic institutions is evident in their every endeavor," he said on Thursday, Sept. 26.

"As champions of democracy, they have always prioritized the protection of individual rights, the pursuit of justice, and the strengthening of our democratic framework," he added.

According to Romualdez, First Lady Liza is an accomplished lawyer and advocate for justice whose vast expertise and integrity will be a source of strength for Philconsa.

"Her career has been dedicated to the service of the Filipino people and her commitment to upholding the Constitution is unwavering," he said.

"She has consistently demonstrated her belief in the transformative power of law, ensuring that legal processes are fair, just, and accessible to all," he added.

The House Speaker said that under the First Couple's leadership, the nation will continue to strengthen its democracy, empower the people, and ensure that the rights enshrined in the 1987 Constitution remain secure for future generations.

Founded on Sept. 26, 1961, Philconsa supports the government's efforts to ensure that its plans and programs remain compliant with the tenets of the Constitution.

Protect the Constitution

In his speech during the event, President Marcos said people should not forget the Constitution as it is the fundamental principle that establishes "everything" from establishing the government's structure to determining the people's rights and protecting them from abuse.

"It promotes our fundamental right to life, liberty, and property.  It ensures our right to due process and equal protection, our freedom of speech and religion, our right to privacy, amongst others," he said.

The President said Philconsa serves as the "people's conscience" that preserves the Constitution from insidious interests.

"In the past sixty-three years, the Philconsa has remained the steadfast, vigilant, and uncompromising guardians of our democracy and of our nation," he said.

The Philippines has had six (6) Constitutions since the proclamation of independence on June 12, 1898.  With each adoption of a new Constitution, a corresponding Proclamation has been issued to commemorate the date each charter came into full force and effect.