Rodriguez pushes economic charter change despite 88% opposition

Despite a Pulse Asia survey showing 88 percent public opposition to charter change, Cagayan de Oro 2nd District Representative Rufus Rodriguez argues that amending economic provisions in the Constitution could still benefit the country.

Rodriguez, who heads the House committee on constitutional amendments, cited President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. and other officials as supporters of easing economic restrictions to attract more foreign investments.

The survey found only 8 percent support for charter change, but Rodriguez maintains that pursuing such reforms is necessary despite public opposition.

On March 20, the House passed Resolution of Both Houses (RBH) No. 7 on third reading, which seeks to amend certain restrictive economic provisions in the Constitution.

Rodriguez emphasized that reversing course now would harm the country's image and discourage foreign direct investments, stressing that such changes are limited to three specific areas without political amendments.

Meanwhile, Presidential Adviser for Poverty Alleviation Lorenzo 'Larry' Gadon recommended adding political amendments to the Constitution, a move that could further fuel public distrust according to some experts.