(Eagle News)–President Rodrigo Duterte on Friday, July 6, dared his critics to make the proposal that his term be limited even before the federal form of government was in place.
“I suggest to (former Chief Justice) Reynato Puno and I would like Congress to approve that proposal to make a final change that my term be limited until 2019,” Duterte said in a speech at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay.
The President was apparently reacting to speculations he was planning to extend his term, after Julio Teehankee of the Constitutional Commission said under the proposed federal form of government, Duterte could seek a fresh term as president.
“Make me stop being President during the transition. In other words, elect a president before you make the transition from the unitary to federal,” Duterte said.
He said Vice President Leni Robredo can then “have” the presidency if she wants it.
“Human rights and the opposition, they say, I want to stay beyond 2022? Of course not, sorry to disappoint you, excuse me,” he said.