TACLOBAN CITY — Citing the need to prepare the Philippines for a more competitive and fast-changing global economy, Leyte 4th District Rep. Richard Gomez has renewed his call to amend the 1987 Constitution, stressing that the push for Charter change should be viewed as a long-term reform agenda rather than a reaction to recent political controversies.

In a statement posted on his social media account on Saturday, January 31, Gomez said discussions on constitutional amendments must return to long-standing structural and economic concerns, and not be linked to the Supreme Court’s ruling that upheld its earlier decision on the impeachment complaint filed against Vice President Sara Duterte.

“This is not about what the Supreme Court decided. Kalimutan muna natin iyon,” Gomez said, emphasizing that his position on Charter change stands independently of the high-profile political developments that recently reignited the debate.

“Our Constitution needs an upgrade to meet the challenges of 2026 and the coming years,” Gomez said, adding that reforms should focus on modernizing both governance and the economy. “Let’s commit to this reform and finish what we have been waiting for. Sana wala nang atrasan sa Senado.”

The lawmaker cited economic liberalization as a key driver of his push, pointing out that restrictive provisions in the Constitution continue to limit foreign participation in critical sectors. He said revisiting the 40-percent cap on foreign ownership in industries such as public utilities and education could help attract more foreign direct investment, generate employment, and reduce costs through increased competition.

Gomez also said loosening investment rules would boost the country’s global competitiveness, noting that neighboring Southeast Asian countries such as Vietnam and Thailand have adopted more flexible economic policies that have helped draw investors.
Beyond economic reforms, Gomez underscored the need to update the country’s system of governance, arguing that the 1987 Constitution was drafted long before the rise of the digital economy.

“Our current framework did not anticipate online commerce, remote work, or digital currencies,” he said, adding that these developments now require updated legal and regulatory structures.

The lawmaker also echoed calls for greater decentralization, saying more powers should be devolved from what critics refer to as “Imperial Manila” to local governments to promote more balanced national development.

However, Gomez acknowledged that previous attempts to amend the Constitution have repeatedly stalled, particularly over proposals affecting term limits, especially in the Senate.

“This is always the part where Charter change stops and dies,” he said, referring to resistance to any changes that could affect the six-year terms of senators.

(JOEY A. GABIETA)

TACLOBAN CITY — In a move aimed at strengthening adolescent health and youth development initiatives, the Calbayog City government formally launched two school-based teen centers on January 30, 2026, at Calbayog City National High School and San Policarpo National High School.

The launching ceremonies were led by Mayor Raymund “Monmon” Uy and were attended by school officials, students, and representatives of partner agencies.

City officials said the teen centers are intended to serve as safe and youth-friendly spaces where students can access accurate information on reproductive health, participate in life skills training, and engage in activities that encourage positive relationships and responsible decision-making.

They added that the initiative underscores the local government’s commitment to investing in the welfare of young Calbayognons and equipping them with the knowledge and values needed for future leadership roles.

The teen centers are also expected to complement existing school- and community-based programs that promote adolescent health, education, and responsible citizenship throughout the city.

The launch was supported by the Commission on Population and Development (CPD) regional office, headed by Regional Director Elnora Pulma, and the Calbayog City Population Office led by City Population Officer Dymple Via Naparan.

Officials from the Schools Division of Calbayog City were also present, including Assistant Schools Division Superintendent Jun-Nilou Dulfo, along with San Policarpo National High School Principal Romeo D. Castante.

(ROEL T. AMAZONA)