House Committee of the Whole granted approval for RBH 7

The House of Representatives, convening as a committee of the whole, has overwhelmingly approved Resolution of Both Houses No. 7 (RBH7), which contains three proposed amendments to perceived restrictive economic provisions in the 1987 Constitution.

RBH7 seeks to amend provisions related to legislative franchises, ownership of public utilities, ownership of basic educational facilities, and ownership of advertising firms.

Deputy Majority Leader Neptali Gonzales II announced that plenary deliberations on RBH7 will commence on March 11, with the expectation that the resolution will be approved on second reading by March 13.

During the six-day hearings, various stakeholders, including former government officials, academics, and professionals, provided testimonies in support of the proposed amendments.

Notable advocates for the amendments included former senator Gregorio Honasan and former finance secretary Margarito Teves, who highlighted the potential economic benefits of lifting foreign ownership restrictions.

However, five lawmakers, including Camarines Sur Rep. Gabriel Bordado Jr. and Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman, opposed the passage of RBH7, arguing that it may not address the root causes of the country’s economic challenges.

Meanwhile, Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri acknowledged the challenges in passing a similar resolution in the Senate, citing trust issues between the two chambers and the need to garner sufficient votes for approval.

Despite the challenges, Zubiri emphasized the Senate’s commitment to debate and discuss the proposed amendments, as reflected in Senate Resolution 941 filed by Sen. Francis Tolentino.

Resolution 941 seeks to amend Senate rules to allow for the consideration of constitutional amendments through a formula devised by the late Joaquin Bernas, one of the framers of the Constitution.

The resolution aims to facilitate the formulation of amendments by both houses of Congress independently, without the need for a joint session, as required under the 1935 Constitution.

Ultimately, the passage of RBH7 in the House of Representatives represents a significant step toward potential constitutional amendments aimed at enhancing the country’s economic competitiveness. However, challenges remain in navigating the legislative process and garnering sufficient support in the Senate.

Politics News: House Committee of the Whole granted approval for RBH 7