The Foundation of Economic Freedom (FEF) has pushed pushing for Charter Change through a Constitutional Convention, arguing that systemic corruption stems from weaknesses in the 1987 Constitution.

FEF president Calixto Chikiamco said during the Pilipinas Conference at The Peninsula Manila that public confidence in government institutions has eroded.

“Right now, there’s no faith in the government institution, the House of Representatives, the Executive, the COA, and all of them,” he said.

“So, what we need is to change the Constitution and establish a strong political system, even change the economic model of our 1987 Constitution, which is based on Filipino first and Filipino only,” he added.

Chikiamco claimed the Charter has become outdated and restrictive, arguing that corruption is not unique to the Philippines, but that its severity underscores the need for political and economic restructuring.

He suggested focusing on education as an equalizer and simplifying the Constitution to allow legislation to handle details.

The group also pushed for state financing of political parties to reduce the incentive for corruption.

“As long as we have a strong political party system,” he said, noting either a two-party presidential system or multiparty parliamentary system would work.

Chikiamco said ConCon members should be elected by the public in 2028 to ensure credibility.

The group also called for the abolition of the party-list system, saying it has been “abused” and citing the case of resigned Ako Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co.