Rodrigo Duterte supports Cha-cha if…

MANILA, Philippines — After staunchly opposing the proposed Charter change initiative and even berating President Marcos over the issue, former president Rodrigo Duterte has said he is now open to amending the Constitution – including the term limit for the president – as long as the changes do not apply to incumbent officials.

The former president earlier insisted that the Constitution was already perfect and did not have to be changed.

“I will support the changes in the Constitution – its economic provisions and even the term of the president, I am OK with it, as long as it does not favor the incumbent leaders or those who will be elected in the coming elections,” Duterte said at a prayer rally in Cebu City organized by supporters against people’s initiative Sunday night.

He said he would not go against Cha-cha if President Marcos would promise not to run again.

“Do not change the Constitution if you are doing it for your own favor and you just want to extend your term,” Duterte said, addressing Marcos.

He also said that any changes in the Constitution intended to extend the terms of the incumbent elected officials would not sit well with the people.

“You do not tinker with the Constitution, because if you are going to change it just like what Marcos (Sr.) did, it will not end well,” he said.

“There is a time limit, stick to it so that everything will be well,” Duterte maintained. “Do not follow in your father’s footsteps, because you will really stumble.”

While claiming he is against constitutional changes that would extend the term of incumbent elected officials, Duterte said he is willing to compromise if such an endeavor would turn out to be for the good of the people.

“I would support whatever changes in the Constitution if that would enhance, improve or whatever that would make the Filipinos happy. I am for it, as long as they will not insert their personal interest in securing their future in politics,” Duterte said.

The former president would be leading seven more prayer vigils against a Cha-cha that would only benefit politicians, former spokesman Harry Roque said.

“As you heard from the speech of PRRD that he was focused on Charter change, he said