Thursday, July 28, 2005 (Philippines)

That was how robbery accused Rey Torres was brought to the courtroom for arraignment: on a chair carried by two cops. To most of those who watched the proceedings, however, Torres was just a disabled person who could not move without the help of others. Torres pleaded not guilty to the East West Bank robbery. (Sun.star photo/Amper Campaña) President Arroyo got down to the business of amending the 1987 Constitution that may mean cutting short her six-year term and setting fresh elections as early as next year. She announced yesterday that she will initiate the creation of a consultative constitutional commission that will give inputs to the House of Representatives on possible amendments to the Constitution leading to Charter change. She made the announcement during her first press conference in Malaca-nang’s Rizal Hall since the “Hello Garci” tape scandal erupted last June 6. The President did not directly answer whether she would be willing to leave office early if Congress takes up her suggestion to amend the Constitution and switch to a parliamentary form of government. [full story]