The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has decided to halt the people’s initiative proceedings indefinitely. Comelec Chairperson George Garcia announced the suspension, citing the need to review and enhance existing rules, particularly Resolution 10650 governing initiative-related processes.
Garcia noted that the guidelines lack provisions on withdrawal and opposition, prompting the suspension to prevent conflicts and misinterpretations.
The initiative aims to enable Congress members to collectively vote on constitutional amendments, favoring the House of Representatives over the Senate.
Senator Imee Marcos’s electoral reforms committee will probe allegations of “signature buying” for the initiative, with accusations against House Speaker Martin Romualdez.
Senator Risa Hontiveros emphasized the importance of monitoring Comelec’s actions, asserting that the proposed changes constitute a revision rather than an amendment.
Source: PhilNews24 | January 30, 2024
