LAWMAKERS should first consult the public about the proposal to extend their term limits, Malacañang said on Thursday, July 11.
This comes after Taguig City Representative Alan Peter Cayetano sought to extend the term limits for legislators.
Cayetano's bid for House Speaker was earlier endorsed by President Rodrigo Duterte under a term-sharing arrangement with Marinduque Rep. Lord Allan Velasco.
Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said the public opinion on Cayetano's proposal is necessary.
"Mine is irrelevant at this stage. I think more relevant would be what the people want. I think they should conduct a survey on the sentiments of the people whether or not they agree with that proposal," Panelo told Palace reporters.
"And I'm sure, since that has been floated, there will be opinions being expressed by many sectors," he added.
On Tuesday, July 9, Cayetano expressed dissatisfaction over the three-year tenure of congressmen, saying that it was too short.
He suggested that three years be extended to "four years or five years."
Under the 1987 Constitution, elected officials are restricted to a term of three years and no more than three consecutive terms.
Panelo said Cayetano's proposal would still be up to the members of Congress.
"I will not preempt the wisdom of the members of Congress on this matter," he said. "The decision would always lie on the members of Congress. They are the ones passing the bill." (SunStar Philippines)