A recent survey revealed that almost nine out of 10 Filipinos are against changing the Constitution at this time, leading Senate leaders to rethink their approach to Charter change proceedings.
Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri described the survey results as an “eye-opener” and emphasized the unpopularity of Charter change. He stressed the importance of carefully studying the matter before making any decisions.
Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva echoed Zubiri’s sentiments, pointing out that the survey results discredit the people’s initiative campaign launched earlier this year. He emphasized that the survey clearly indicates that Charter change is not a priority for the Filipino people.
The survey conducted by private pollster Pulse Asia showed that 88% of Filipinos do not support revising the Constitution at this time. This sentiment remains strong even for those who are not in favor of Charter change in the future. Only 8% of respondents believe that the Constitution should be amended now.
Furthermore, the survey revealed that regardless of socio-economic background, most Filipinos are not in favor of proposals to lift foreign ownership restrictions in the 1987 Constitution. For example, only 24% supported allowing foreigners to own schools or universities, while 19% supported foreign ownership in media, advertising, and communication companies.
These findings have led Senate leaders to reconsider their stance on Resolution of Both Houses 6, which proposes economic amendments to the Charter. The survey results indicate a clear lack of public support for Charter change, prompting Senate leaders to take a more cautious approach in their decision-making process.
