President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced a new approach to constitutional changes, focusing solely on economic provisions to boost the Philippine economy. The statement was made during the “Constitution Day 2024” observance in Makati City on February 8.
Marcos emphasized that the reforms “extends to economic matters alone, or those strategically aimed at boosting our country’s economy.” He also expressed the administration’s commitment to attract more foreign investments to help achieve the goal of upper middle-class income status by 2025.
Despite a nearly 16% decrease in foreign investments, Marcos remains optimistic about economic growth, projecting a growth rate of 6.5 to 7.5% for 2024. He also urged citizens to unite in preserving the Constitution and the nation’s integrity, pledging to be the “Great Protector of the Constitution.”
Retired Supreme Court Chief Justice Renato Puno, who was present at the event, discussed the need for changes in the constitution over time and highlighted current issues such as the People’s Initiative to change the Constitution and the proposal to separate Mindanao. He warned against potential problems and emphasized the need for democratic solutions.
Other attendees at the event included First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos, Philippine Constitution Association (Philconsa) president, Speaker Martin Romualdez, Philconsa chairman, Manila Overseas Press Club Chairman Tony Lopez and Mike Toledo, Philconsa governor.
