Lawmaker Proposes Constitutional Amendments for National Territory and Economic Provisions

AKO Bicol Rep. Alfredo Garbin filed a resolution proposing amendments to the 1987 Constitution, focusing on national territory and economic provisions. Garbin, former chairman of the House Committee on Constitutional Amendments, sees it as a credible reform aligned with international law and national needs. He emphasized that it's a refinement, not a rewrite, aiming to align national territory with the arbitral victory and promote economic growth while safeguarding sovereignty.

The resolution addresses the need for the Philippines to assert its territorial integrity and sovereign rights, especially in the South China Sea. It points out that the Constitution lacks explicit mention of the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and Continental Shelf (CS), causing ambiguity in asserting maritime rights. Garbin stressed the importance of amending Article I to reflect the country's rights over its EEZ and continental shelf, aligning with Unclos and the 2016 arbitral ruling.

Another key aspect is the proposal to include the phrase 'unless otherwise provided by law' in select economic provisions, giving Congress flexibility to legislate without constitutional amendments. This phrase would be added to Articles XII, XIV, and XVI of the Constitution, allowing for necessary reforms within the system.

Garbin highlighted the importance of working within the constitutional framework for effective reforms. Any amendment or revision of the Constitution requires ratification by a majority in a plebiscite.

According to the source: The Manila Times.