PPCRV and NAMFREL Jointly Express Concern on Con-Ass

MANILA, June 12, 2009-The Parish Pastoral Council For Responsible Voting (PPCRV) and the National Citizens' Movement for Free Elections (NAMFREL) have articulated their concern over the controversial Constituent Assembly (Con-Ass).

The groups pointed out they desire to accomplish the regular presidential elections on May 2010 in agreement with the 1987 constitution and the revision be executed after the elections.

"Having this (2010 elections) in mind we agree for the study of a revision of the constitution after the 2010 elections, therefore any constitutional amendment at this time is uncalled for," they stated.

They said that constitution change without administrator development is similar to a cosmetic touch up that would soon be beneficial these officials.

"No matter how unadulterated a constitutional revision may be, if those tasked to implement it are of the same "political breeding" then a constitutional change is just a mere "cosmetic retouch" to a political exercise that may really be important," the poll watchdogs said.

They have also reiterated the pastoral statement by the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) on this matter that changing the constitution is a vital matter for the country since it will establish the future of a political system.

The proclamation by these election watchdogs concluded stressing that education and public information campaigns must be established in order to holistically get the pulse of the people on the issue of constitutional change. (Kate Laceda)