Nine framers of the 1987 Constitution officially endorsed the candidacies of running-mates Leni Robredo and Francis Pangilinan for president and vice president, respectively, in the May national elections.
"As framers of the 1987 Philippine Constitution, we wish to state with all conviction that, among the candidates for President, Vice-President Leni Robredo best embodies the principles and values found in the Basic Charter of the land," the framers said in a joint statement.
According to them, the heart of the Constitution is the Article on Social Justice and Human Rights, which responds to the aspirations of vulnerable sectors of society.
They said the ideals articulated by the Robredo-Pangilinan tandem "strongly conform to the imperatives expressed in the Basic Charter" that they worked on and presented to the people.
They also cited the tandem's track record for the decision, while pointing out Robredo's advocacies and transparency while in office.
"Vice-President Leni Robredo's record of public service, as well as that of Senator Kiko Pangilinan, demonstrate their competence, capabilities, and the qualities of servant leaders who can inspire generations of our people to bring our country to its greatness," they said.
"VP Leni's life-long advocacies as a lawyer serving the poor and as an economist focusing on inclusive efforts to uplift the lives of those on ‘the fringes’ of society provide a testament to her singular dedication to address the main challenges our country now confronts: poverty and inequality. And she embodies the constitutional vision of leaders who live modest lives and are transparent in the use of the powers of office," they added.
The following officials signed the document:
- Felicitas Aquino- Arroyo
- Teodoro Bacani
- Florangel Rosario Braid
- Hilario Davide, Jr.
- Edmundo Garcia
- Christian Monsod
- Rene Sarmiento
- Jaime Tadeo
- Wilfrido Villacorta
They said they are affixing their signatures in memory of the late Commission on Human Rights chair Chito Gascon, who was also the youngest member of the 1986 Constitutional Commission.
They also signed in memory of their colleagues who passed away, including Commission President Justice Cecilia Muñoz-Palma, Chief Justice Roberto Concepcion, Fr. Joaquin Bernas S.J., among others.
"They lived courageous lives, encouraging us to be more deeply committed and involved as citizens of a 'country of hope!'" they said.
Adolfo Azcuna, as a member of the Philippine Judicial Academy, has to inhibit.
The framers issued the statement on the eve of EDSA People Power Revolution, which eventually led to the ouster of late dictator Ferdinand Marcos, Sr., and the drafting of the new Fundamental Law for the Philippines.
They join the growing list of former high-ranking officials who are endorsing Robredo's run for the presidency in the upcoming elections.
