A CALL FOR CHARTER CHANGE: A NATION IN NEED OF TRUE REFORM

The Philippines has long prided itself on being a democracy built on the foundation of the 1987 Constitution. But almost four decades later, it’s time to face an uncomfortable truth our laws are no longer governing us; money and power are.

Everywhere we look, corruption thrives. From the smallest transactions in government offices to the biggest contracts and political appointments, influence often outweighs integrity. The Constitution, once written to safeguard democracy and protect the people, now struggles to keep up with the complex realities of modern governance.

This is why Charter Change or Cha-Cha should no longer be a taboo word. It should be a necessary conversation.

The 1987 Constitution was written after the dictatorship designed to prevent the abuse of power. But in doing so, it also built walls too high that now block progress and accountability. Many of its provisions, especially in the economy, have become outdated and overly restrictive.

Allowing reasonable foreign participation in industries can create jobs, reduce poverty, and bring in technology and expertise that our country badly needs. But more importantly, Charter Change should not only be about economics it must be about ethics, transparency, and accountability.

If done right, constitutional reform can strengthen anti-corruption mechanisms, demand stricter transparency from public officials, and ensure that checks and balances are truly working. We need a system where politicians cannot hide behind legal loopholes, where public service means real accountability, not mere lip service.

Our laws have weakened because the people enforcing them have learned to bend them. The Constitution must evolve to protect the Filipino people not the powerful few. It must reinforce the independence of the judiciary, empower local governments, and uphold the rule of law over political influence.

Charter Change offers a chance to rebuild the credibility of our institutions, restore trust in government, and strengthen national unity.

Critics will say that amending the Constitution risks extending political terms or opening doors to abuse. But fear should not stop reform guardrails and public participation should. What we need is not blind trust, but collective vigilance.

It’s time we stop patching the cracks of a failing system and start rebuilding its foundation. The call for Charter Change is not about changing power it’s about changing the culture of governance

For too long, we’ve been governed by greed instead of good laws. Now is the moment to rewrite our future to create a Constitution that finally serves the people, not the powerful.

OPINION By | Mr. Sherman Calotes

Philippine People's Press | In Truth We Prevail