NUP members file bill pushing for Constitutional Convention to Amend 1987 Constitution

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NUP Files Bill for Constitutional Convention to Amend 1987 Constitution

The National Unity Party (NUP) has filed a bill at the House of Representatives seeking to convene a constitutional convention (con-con) to amend certain provisions of the 1987 Constitution. The move aims to strengthen democracy through transparent and inclusive reforms.

A Commitment to Transparency and Inclusivity

In filing House Bill 5870, Deputy Speaker and Antipolo Rep. Ronaldo Puno and other NUP members emphasized the importance of pursuing constitutional reform in a manner that is free from partisan manipulation and ensures broad representation. The bill prioritizes transparency, inclusivity, and participatory governance.

Electing Constitutional Convention Delegates

Under the proposed bill, 150 delegates for the constitutional convention will be elected on May 11, 2026, with representation drawn from all 18 administrative regions, including the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. This ensures balanced and inclusive representation across the country.

Requirements for Constitutional Convention Delegates

To qualify as a delegate, individuals must meet certain criteria they must be natural-born citizens, at least 25 years old, hold a college degree, and remain independent from political office. These requirements are designed to shield the constitutional convention from political capture and ensure that delegates deliberate solely on the merits of reform.

The Purpose of the Constitutional Convention

The Constitutional Convention offers the most prudent, participatory, and legitimate mechanism for reform, said Deputy Speaker Puno. It invites the nation to confront enduring constitutional ambiguities through reasoned debate, anchored in the rule of law and the people's voice.

Timeline and Next Steps

The bill requires that the convention be convened not later than July 15, 2026, and complete its work within one year unless extended by law. Any proposed amendments or revisions will be submitted to a plebiscite within 60 to 90 days after approval in accordance with Article XVII of the Constitution.

Conclusion

The National Unity Party remains committed to strengthening democracy through constitutional reform, ensuring that reforms proceed within constitutional, participatory, and transparent bounds.

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

Enjoy the little things in life. For one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.