Necessity Speaker (1st Speaker)

While we've achieved much as a country, we cannot deny the reality: our current
Constitution, crafted under unique circumstances decades ago, restricts our ability to
move forward. That's why Charter Change, or ChaCha, is not just an option, but a
necessity. It is based on 5 pronged reasons 1. Economic modernization, 2.
Globalization, 3. Appeal to Filipino people, 4. Social issues and 5. Time essence.

1. ECONOMIC MODERNIZATION

The 1987 Constitution, a product of a revolutionary past, prioritizes checks and

balances to prevent abuses of power (University of the Philippines Diliman Department
of Political Science, 2023). Our economic provisions, for example, limit foreign
investment and stifle competition, as argued by the IBON Foundation [IBON
Foundation, What You Need to Know About Charter Change and its Possible Effects on
the Education Sector]. Amending these would allow us to attract vital capital and create
a more dynamic economy, as envisioned by proponents of ChaCha.

2. GLOBALIZATION

The world has become interconnected. The Constitution, designed for a different time,
hinders our ability to compete in this new landscape. ChaCha would allow us to
modernize our economic provisions, invest in infrastructure, and create a more
attractive environment for businesses, bringing the Philippines in line with the demands
of the 21st century AND to make the Philippines more attractive to businesses in the
globalized landscape.

3. APPEAL TO FILIPINO PEOPLE

What one thing Filipinos are known for? For being OFW’s. Millions of Filipinos, doctors,
nurses, and skilled workers, contribute immensely to foreign economies. ChaCha could
pave the way for legislative changes that would allow them to invest back home, fueling
our own growth.

Even for OFWs rights, The 1987 Constitution limits absentee voting rights to Filipinos
abroad who have been out of the country for not more than three years. Amending their
Absentee Voting Rights, this provision through ChaCha could allow OFWs who have
been abroad for longer to participate in Philippine elections (Comelec Philippines, "The
Overseas Voting Act" https://comelec.gov.ph/). This would give them a stronger voice in
choosing the government that represents them.A stronger economy might entice them
to return and invest their earnings back home Increasing remittances.
Some fear ChaCha is a gateway to abuse. However, safeguards can be included to
ensure any amendments strengthen our democracy. We, the Filipino people, will have
the final say through a plebiscite, as enshrined in the Constitution. This ensures that any
changes reflect the will of the majority.

4. SOCIAL ISSUES
The Constitution might not adequately address contemporary social issues like
LGBTQ+ rights or environmental protection. ChaCha could pave the way for
amendments that reflect evolving social values. (Philippine Coalition for Human Rights.
"Charter Change and Human Rights." https://www.ohchr.org/en/countries/philippines).
Some argue ChaCha could introduce term limits or other measures to curb political
dynasties and promote political inclusivity (Institute for Electoral Democracy and
Political Reform. "Charter Change and Political Reforms."
https://www.idea.int/publications/catalogue/electoral-system-reform-and-design).

5. TIME ESSENCE
In other words, we are executing our FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS to change the laws that
govern over our lives and liberty. Public vigilance and a well-informed citizenry are
crucial throughout this process (Rappler, What you need to know about Charter
Change). Its necessity is, TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE. Our competitors are constantly
innovating. Can we afford to be held back by an outdated Constitution? ChaCha is not
about changing our core values; it's about ensuring those values can thrive in the 21st
century. This is not about blind trust in leaders, but about empowering Filipinos to
decide the path forward.

However, we must approach this with caution, ensuring any changes prioritize the
needs of the Filipino people and are undertaken with transparency and public
participation (University of the Philippines Diliman Department of Political Science,
2023).

Any amendments should be carefully considered to ensure they benefit the Philippines
in the long run (Philippine Development Forum. "Charter Change and Sustainable
Development." https://www.kas.de/c/document_library/get_file?uuid=229c2b94-11d7-
d173-9bce-b8e9fb80f658&groupId=252038).
Ultimately, we argue that pursuing ChaCha is for the best interests of the Filipino
people.