TUCP calls for a Constitutional process to resolve political crisis

The Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) said that the political crisis affecting the country should be resolved through constitutional processes.

In a same statement the TUCP also expressed apprehension over the long-term effects of the political instability on businesses climate and employment in the country, particularly at a time when the whole world is facing a debilitating oil crisis.

TUCP stressed that the only way to resolve the allegations against President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo is through a process provided for by the Constitution. TUCP pointed out that any attempt to sidestep the provisions of law would tarnish the image of the country and the ability of future administrations to govern.

“The Constitution provides the mechanisms and the means to address issues such as that we are facing right now. We as a country and a people should show the world now more than ever that we are capable of observing and enforcing our democratic systems”, TUCP said.

TUCP also added that the President and other politicians mentioned in the wiretapped conversations should be treated with fairness and accorded the due process of law.

“While it is true that we are known for the dynamism and audacity in observing our democratic ideals, the situation calls for us to demonstrate our adherence to civility and the rule of law, not only for the present administration but for all administrations to come. Doing otherwise will be a serious blow to the credibility of the country”, TUCP added.

The TUCP expressed that any action outside the framework of the Constitution will highlight the weakness of the country’s policies and systems which may further erode the confidence of the international community on the country.

“The first thing that investors and partners abroad look for in a country is stability and consistency in its policies”, TUCP said as it expressed its deep concern over the short-term and long-term effects of the crisis on the country’s economy.

The TUCP said that there is an urgent need to stabilize the political and economic situation because the political impasse has already brought uneasiness to the businesses community.

This TUCP said this may lead many firms to resort to slowdowns or simply close shop.

“At the end of the day, it will be Juan de la Cruz who will bear the brunt of this political exercise. It is the ordinary workers who will lose their jobs, the housewife who will be unable to put food on the table, and the children who need to go to school, who will feel as a result of this instability”, TUCP said.

TUCP also lamented that while the people are locked in the political debate the ill-effects of the oil crisis is rearing its ugly head unnoticed.