Framers of the 1987 Constitution gave different positions on the proposal to amend the charter.
This was during the hearing today of the Senate Committee on Constitutional Amendments and Revision of Codes chaired by Senator Francis Pangilinan.
Former Supreme Court (SC) Chief Justice Hilario Davide Jr. said, there is absolutely no need to amend or revise the charter.
He explained, "the 1987 Constitution may be imperfect but it is the best in the world."
He added, "this is a constitution I am willing to die for."
Professor Edmundo Garcia said, lawmakers need not tinker with the charter.
"The Local Government Code can be amended to distribute power and wealth more equitably," he explained.
He also noted, "if we dedicate ourselves to ensuring that the articles on social justice and human rights and the local government accountability of public officials are fully observed, then the principal objectives of the proposed charter change can be met without having to draft a new constitution."
Meanwhile, Former SC Associate Justice Adolf Azcuna wants the 1987 Constitution amended.
"Yes. We have to amend the constitution because it is already 30 years old. But don't revise it. Revision is such a big word," he told lawmakers.
He explained the constitution must be amended if government wants to open up the economy.
Azcuna stressed both members of Congress must vote separately when they decide on whether or not to approve a proposed charter.
