Senators open to charter change

Many pro-administration senators have expressed their openness to the proposed charter change, a sign that President Gloria Arroyo is also for it, observers said.

Senate President Franklin Drilon said he favours selective amendment of the constitution, adding that this should centre on new provisions on foreign investment, on natural resources, real estate development, and acceptance of foreign owners for media companies.

"These changes will help spur the economy," Drilon explained. He added that the old restrictions were not investor-friendly.

The selective amendments can be initiated by the lower house of the bicameral Congress, and then submitted to the people in a plebiscite that will be held simultaneously with a national election, he proposed.

"We should only amend provisions on the economy, and those provisions which have been affected by the changes in technology," he said.

An additional 60 to 100 per cent foreign ownership of investment will entice more foreign investors, Drilon explained. He added that the current 40 per cent foreign ownership has been the source of complaints of many foreign investors.

A Philippine law bans foreigners from owning a newspaper, TV and radio stations. "This should change. Everyday we watch CNN and other foreign television. Why not entice them to come over?" Drilon said.

He does not favour amendments of the six-year term limit of government officials as well as proposals to shift to a parliamentary form of government.

Drilon also opposed plans to amend the constitution through a constitutional convention or a constitutional commission, saying this will cost about P2 billion ($39.6 million).

Meanwhile, administration Senator John Osmeña said changing the constitution is "more practical and realistic". "There should be a ban on relatives and family members of politicians from running for public office," said Osmena.

Senator Francisco Pangilinan also said he is for selective amendment of the constitution, adding that changes would perfect the 1987 charter. Earlier, President Gloria Arroyo said she is not for charter change.