TUCP bucks cha-cha

from People’s Journal

The Trade Union Congress of the Philippines yesterday said it was closing ranks with civil society groups and Church-based organizations opposing fresh attempts to amend the 1987 Constitution to allow a term extension for President Macapagal-Arroyo and other elected officials.

TUCP secretary-general and former senator Ernesto Herrera warned of a “potential popular uprising” once Congress moves to convene itself into a constituent assembly to railroad proposed changes to the Constitution.

“The people are eagerly looking forward to the 2010 presidential elections, and to a change in government. Exploiting Charter change as an excuse to postpone the polls is totally unacceptable,” Herrera said.

He said the postponement of the 2010 elections could drive the people to the streets. The labor leader did not say if the TUCP is joining the anti-Chacha rally on Dec. 12.

Militant teachers have committed to join the multi-sectoral rally. Former president Joseph Estrada and some religious leaders also called on the people to join the protest march.

Herrera said the TUCP supports the holding of a constitutional convention whose delegates can be elected simultaneously during the May 2010 presidential polls.

He urged Congress to focus on passing new legislations that would help stimulate the national economy, save jobs and provide gainful employment or alternative livelihood to overseas Filipino workers displaced by the global economic crisis.