Former Supreme Court Chief Justice Hilario Davide Jr. has submitted a host of constitutional, legislative, and executive reform measures, including an overhaul of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) and the country’s electoral system, Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye said yesterday.
The secretary said President Arroyo is now reviewing the proposed measures
"The comprehensive report deals not only with the operations of the Comelec but also covers possible amendments to the Constitution and the proposed congressional amendments to the Omnibus Election Code," Bunye said.
"It also proposes executive initiatives to improve public awareness about their role in bringing about credible and meaningful elections."
Davide recommended changes in the Comelec’s rules of procedures, such as (a) mandatory raffle of cases; (b) mandatory deliberation of a case before its assignment to a ponente for the writing of opinion; (c) shorter periods for the availment of remedies for a more expeditious disposition of cases; and (d) a new rule abolishing the municipal canvass of election results as far as national candidates are concerned.
"It also recommends that the Comelec undertake capacity-building programs to professionalize its senior staff and improve the body’s internal management processes," Bunye added.
The secretary said Congress may have to amend the Omnibus Election Code, such as imposition of imprisonment and higher penalties for election offenses and fixing the period forthe resolution of electoral protests.
Davide also recommended changes in the Constitution that pertain to electoral exercises.
Among them are:
1.Fixing the term of office of congressmen and provincial, city, and municipal elective officials to four years.
2. De-synchronization of elections and holding of national and local elections on different dates.
3. Banning of the appointment of elective local officials and congressmen to any public office during the term for which they were elected.
4. Banning of the appointment of senators to any public office within three years from their election for a particular term.
5. Prohibiting political dynasties and turn-coatism.
6. Developing a party system and preferably, a return to two party system.
7. Providing financial assistance to the political parties on the basis of their share of the votes cast.
8. Prohibiting financial contributions from foreign governments.
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