Former Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonio Carpio has expressed support for shifting to a parliamentary system, marking a change in his long-held position on constitutional reform.
During a committee hearing held at the House of Representatives on December 3, 2025, Carpio said the parliamentary model could address structural problems in the current presidential system, particularly political patronage and corruption. He noted that presidential campaigns require massive funding, which creates obligations that influence governance.
“To run for president, you need at least ₱5 billion pesos… You will have to promise everything to your supporters, and you will be tied down by these commitments,” Carpio said.
PGMN anchor and constitutional reform advocate Orion Perez said Carpio’s stance represents a clear shift from his earlier opposition to charter change. Perez, who has advocated for a parliamentary system for more than 15 years, welcomed Carpio’s support, particularly on easing economic restrictions and reforming the structure of government.
Perez also relayed Carpio’s concerns over amendments to the Public Services Act, which separated public services from public utilities and allowed higher foreign ownership.
Carpio warned that these changes could face constitutional challenges before the Supreme Court and argued that revising restrictive foreign investment provisions in the Constitution would reduce legal uncertainty. Former senator Franklin Drilon has likewise backed a shift to a parliamentary system, saying it would be more practical under a multi-party political setup.
Carpio’s position, alongside Drilon’s, adds momentum to ongoing debates on constitutional reform and the future direction of the country’s system of government
