Manila: Malaca±ang has dismissed claims that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is considering amendments to the 1987 Constitution for term extensions and election postponement as mere speculation.
According to Philippines News Agency, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro stated in a radio interview that the alleged push for Charter change has never been discussed in meetings presided over by Marcos at Malaca±an Palace. Castro emphasized that during meetings with the President, the topic of Charter change is never on the agenda, as there are no plans or priorities for such actions.
This clarification follows Sen. Imee Marcos's claim that there are moves to amend the Constitution through a constituent assembly to extend the terms of current officials until 2031, lower the age requirement for presidential candidates to 35, and cancel the 2028 presidential elections. Castro refuted these allegations, noting that the executive branch is not advocating for constitutional amendments and that the President remains focused on governance issues, including the effects of El Ni±o.
Castro affirmed the President's adherence to the law and dismissed the idea of a 'no-election' scenario. She stressed that the law clearly mandates elections in 2028 and challenged the senator to present evidence instead of involving the President in speculative discussions.
Recalling past events, Castro mentioned that in 2023, the President rejected calls from certain lawmakers to amend the Constitution's economic provisions, asserting that Charter change was not the solution to the country's problems. Castro also speculated that the senator's remarks might be an attempt to divert public attention from the looming impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, a recent gun scare inside the Senate, and the escape of Sen. Ronald dela Rosa.
She urged the public not to be alarmed by what she described as mere rumors, emphasizing that there have been no visible signs or discussions within the Palace indicating any move toward Charter change. Castro assured citizens that these speculations are unfounded and that the matter is not even at an initial stage of consideration.
