Snap polls unconstitutional, Palace lawyer stresses
06/03/2008 | 12:53 PM
MANILA, Philippines - A snap election at this time is unconstitutional and can easily be shot down by the Supreme Court, Malacañang's legal eagle said Tuesday.
Radio dzBB's Aileen Intia reported that Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Sergio Apostol said the 1987 Constitution is specific in prescribing a six-year term for the president.
He said those behind the snap elections should first make sure the 1987 Constitution is amended to allow the snap elections.
Otherwise, he said the proposed measure for a snap election will be easily shot down by the Supreme Court.
For his part, outgoing Presidential Spokesman Ignacio Bunye said President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo remains intent on stepping down from power in 2010.
On the other hand, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chairman Bayani Fernando said he is thankful for the endorsement he got as standard bearer from former president Fidel Ramos' Lakas party.
Fernando, who has been accused of using his post to campaign prematurely, said he will continue to do his job of enforcing order in the metropolis.
On Monday, the ruling Lakas party bared its possible senatorial candidates, led by incumbent Senators Ramon 'Bong' Revilla and Manuel 'Lito' Lapid. - GMANews.TV
Radio dzBB's Aileen Intia reported that Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Sergio Apostol said the 1987 Constitution is specific in prescribing a six-year term for the president.
He said those behind the snap elections should first make sure the 1987 Constitution is amended to allow the snap elections.
Otherwise, he said the proposed measure for a snap election will be easily shot down by the Supreme Court.
For his part, outgoing Presidential Spokesman Ignacio Bunye said President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo remains intent on stepping down from power in 2010.
On the other hand, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chairman Bayani Fernando said he is thankful for the endorsement he got as standard bearer from former president Fidel Ramos' Lakas party.
Fernando, who has been accused of using his post to campaign prematurely, said he will continue to do his job of enforcing order in the metropolis.
On Monday, the ruling Lakas party bared its possible senatorial candidates, led by incumbent Senators Ramon 'Bong' Revilla and Manuel 'Lito' Lapid. - GMANews.TV
