Deputy Speaker and Antipolo City First District Rep. Ronaldo Puno led the filing of a bill to change the 1987 Constitution by mode of Constitutional Convention.
Puno, together with fellow National Unity Party (NUP) lawmakers, filed House Bill 5870 to ‘‘correct defects’’ in the Charter.
‘‘For nearly four decades, the 1987 Constitution has anchored our democracy.
But experience has shown that ambiguities, procedural lapses, and outdated provisions have created confusion and weakened institutional accountability,’’ the bill’s explanatory note states. ‘‘This measure seeks to fulfill’’ not discard’’ the Constitution: to correct errors, complete its intent, and reinforce its authority with clarity and coherence.’’
The proposed amendments focus on provisions involving impeachment proceedings, amnesty grants, tax exemptions, and the composition of the Judicial and Bar Council.
Puno said the Con-Con is the most practical mode to address constitutional ambiguities through reasoned debate anchored in law and the people’s voice.
Under the bill, 150 delegates will be elected on May 11, 2026, from all 18 administrative regions, including the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
Each region elects three base delegates, with additional delegates apportioned by population.
No appointive delegates will be allowed. Delegates must be natural-born citizens, at least 25 years old, college graduates, and independent from political office, with a one-year ban on seeking public office after the convention.
The Con-Con must convene by July 15, 2026, and complete its work within a year, with proposed amendments submitted to a plebiscite 60 to 90 days after approval.
Meanwhile, the Akbayan Party-list group filed House Bill 5905, the Comprehensive Anti-Political Dynasty Law, to enforce the Constitution’s mandate against dynasties. Representatives Chel Diokno, Perci Cendaña, Dadah Kiram Ismula, and Kaka Bag-ao said political dynasties concentrate power in a few families, reinforcing poverty, inequality, and weak institutions.
Bag-ao said, ‘‘Ordinary Filipinos shouldn’t have to fight dynasties just to serve their communities. The real dragons are poverty, inequality, and underdevelopment. This bill ensures capable leaders can tackle those challenges without being blocked by inherited power.’’
The bill clearly defines political dynasties, prohibits certain familial relationships among elected officials, and seeks to broaden leadership opportunities. Its authors cited studies showing dynasties control a growing number of local and national positions, limiting democratic participation.
‘‘Public office is meant for service, not family inheritance,’’ Ismula said.
‘‘Leadership should go to those who step up for the many, not those who protect power for the few.’’
Both HB 5870 and HB 5905 reflect lawmakers’ efforts to strengthen democratic institutions, increase accountability, and expand public participation in governance.
