A PRIMER ON REV POWERS

By Jose Alejandrino

I'll try to simplify what rev powers are.

1. Rev powers are the same kind of powers given to Cory Aquino after Edsa. So there is a precedent. These powers encompass both executive and legislative powers. The president can rule by executive decree which has the force of law.

2. Rev powers, or if you prefer, extraordinary or full powers, are non-transferable. They are only given to the president and are co-terminus with him.

3. Rev powers result from the abrogation of the existing Constitution. Abrogation means the suspension of institutions and existing laws unless these are reconducted or revived by executive decree. All positions in government are automatically vacated but the president can re-appoint by executive order.

4. Rev powers automatically dissolve once a new Constitution is ratified by the people in a plebiscite.

5. The people in its exercise of its sovereign will can grant rev powers to the president with the stipulation that a new Constitution be drawn up within a given period and set a date of ratification by the people following which rev powers automatically fall into abeyance. In other words, the people can grant rev powers up to a limited period. Such powers do not last forever.

6. Rev powers are extraordinary powers to clean up a corrupt political system, rebuild broken institutions, and speed up delivery of the justice system.

7. The grant of rev powers to the president is a matter of trust. They are intended to facilitate reforms by the president. How can those who trust the president and want change refuse him such powers? If they don't trust him, obviously they are not for change because Duterte was elected on a platform of change.

Please share to all.

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