HOUSE Deputy Majority Leader and Iloilo 1st District Rep. Janette Garin on Thursday emphasized the critical need for the swift passage of the proposed economic constitutional reforms, citing their significant potential to improve the lives of Filipinos struggling in poverty.

In a press conference, Garin reiterated the importance of economic Charter amendments as a catalyst for national development and urged her fellow lawmakers to prioritize the interests of the Filipino people above all else.

“Payagan nating umangat ang bawat pamilyang Pilipino kasi sa pag-angat nila makakatulog tayo ng mahimbing at kapag tayo ay may marami nang mga apo sa tuhod, masasabi natin, we did our obligation to our people,” Garin said.

Garin made the statement as she expressed satisfaction with the progress in the House of Representatives of Resolution of Both Houses No. 7 (RBH 7), which seeks to amend specific economic provisions in the 1987 Constitution related to public utilities, education, and advertising.

RBH 7 secured approval on second reading last Wednesday. It is anticipated to garner final approval on third reading next week, just in time for the Holy Week break.

Garin expressed hope that the Senate would also take action promptly, considering that time of the essence, with the 2025 midterm elections fast approaching.

“Sana nga lang gumalaw rin iyong Senado. Kasi bawat araw, bawat buwan, bawat taon at mag e-eleksiyon ulit, ano ang sasabihin natin sa taong bayan?” she said.

Garin stressed the need to pass economic Charter amendments to tackle pressing issues like high food prices, education quality, costly electricity, limited internet access, water shortages, and insufficient public transport.

She highlighted the importance of considering the welfare of the Filipino people in decision-making processes.

“Our decisions and actions should be directed to what is good for our people,” Garin asserted, emphasizing the obligation of lawmakers to serve the interests of the nation.

Garin also emphasized the moral imperative of economic progress, rejecting the notion that poverty is a prerequisite for political power.

“To stay in power, you have to let the people remain in poverty. That is the wrong kind of governance,” Garin said, advocating for policies that uplift every Filipino family and pave the way for a brighter future.

Garin said that the duty of Congress is to demonstrate the urgency of moving forward and delivering tangible results for the people.

She emphasized that popularity should not dictate decision-making but rather the focus should be on what is truly beneficial for the nation.

“We really need to move, we have to deliver, we have to walk the talk because that is our obligation to the public,” Garin remarked.

Garin likewise reiterated the non-political nature of current efforts to amend the Constitution, asserting its critical role in addressing economic restrictions that hinder the country’s competitiveness and growth.

“The economic Cha-cha or RBH 7 is clearly devoid of politics,” Garin said, dispelling notions of political motives behind the proposed changes.

She attributed public mistrust to misinformation and political maneuvering, stressing the need for clarity and transparency in the legislative process.

Garin acknowledged that those who oppose or undermine economic Cha-cha may have two reasons: political motives or a desire to restrict the growth and competitiveness of the Philippines.