CON–ASS, NO! CON–CON, YES!

On the subject of Charter Change, the bishops as also citizens of the state, from the
moral standpoint, have stated before that if the Constitution of the land is to be changed “let
it be done with widespread participation and a unity of vision, with total transparency and
serenity, with reasons unarguably directed to the common good rather than to the self-
serving interests of politicians” (CBCP Statement, 1997).

On the shift from presidential to parliamentary government, from unitary to federal

government, on how these change must be proposed, the CBCP in July 2003 has advocated
thus: “We believe that the gravity of these changes requires extensive study, analysis, and
widespread discussion among the many sectors in Philippine society. We do not advocate the
convening of Congress into a Constituent Assembly. This mode of quick fix change is not
proportionate to the complex and extensive task at hand. The major revisions being
considered clearly call for the convening of a Constitutional Convention.” We then asked the
question which needs to be asked again: “Do the proposed shifts provide for greater
decentralization that effectively devolve powers and enable civil society groups to participate
more in governance?”

In January 2006, the CBCP clearly stated: “The Church recognizes that in a
democracy power emanates from the people – that the subject of political authority is the
people considered in its entirety.” The CBCP again stated: “(Charter Change) is best done
through a Constitutional Convention. The reasons for constitutional change must be based
on the common good rather than on self-serving interests or the interests of political
dynasties.” We believe that at the bottom of our political chaos is a crisis of moral values, a
crisis of truth and justice, of unity and solidarity for the sake of the common good and
genuine peace.

As we had said for the 2007 election, we say it again let the 2010 election push
through and not be postponed. If there should be charter change let it be after 2010 and via a
Constitutional Convention whose delegates are democratically elected by the people.

Therefore, we appeal to the House of Representatives not to pursue House Resolution

1109 convening themselves into a Constituent Assembly.

We appeal to members of civil society who wish to publicly protest against HR 1109
to go on with their plan of mobilization to protect the common good and national interest.
Express it in a peaceful non-violent way in order that we may not fall into the trap that will
necessitate Martial Law again. Learn the lesson from the past.

We exhort the people to address their prayer for peace in our country to the Sacred
Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary as we approach the Year of the Two Hearts
for peace building and social transformation. The more people praying, the better. We trust
that the Two Hearts of Jesus and Mary will not let us down.

+ ANGEL N. LAGDAMEO, D.D.

Archbishop of Jaro
CBCP President

05 June 2009