Activist lawmakers have urged their colleagues in the House of Representatives to formally drop their support for Charter change (Cha-cha) in deference to President Corazon C. Aquino.

In a recently filed resolution, members of the House “progressive bloc” led by Bayan Muna Rep. Satur Ocampo said the withdrawal of House Resolution (HR) 1109, which calls for the convening of a Constituent Assembly (Con-ass) to amend the Constitution, is the best tribute the legislative chamber can give to the late freedom icon.

They noted that Mrs. Aquino had steadfastly expressed her opposition to Cha-cha, the latest of which was during the June 10 rally in Makati City, where, from her hospital bed, she issued a scathing message against HR 1109 and the attempts to amend the Charter.

The Makati rally was held eight days after the House approved HR 1109 through a viva voce voting. The people’s outrage over the approval of the Con-ass resolution was also expressed during the nationwide anti-Cha-cha rallies held on June 30 and July 27, five days before Mrs. Aquino passed away.

It would be recalled that several administration lawmakers and even close associates of President Arroyo have publicly supported the call to bury attempts to amend the Constitution through Con-ass in deference to the wishes of Mrs. Aquino.

The militant legislators said a formal resolution such as the one they filed will formalize the withdrawal of HR 1109.