Deputy Speaker Ronaldo “Ronnie” V. Puno and members of the National Unity Party (NUP) have filed House Bill No. 5870, calling for a Constitutional Convention (ConCon) to amend the 1987 Constitution through a transparent, inclusive, and democratic process.

Filed on November 11, the bill seeks to address long-standing ambiguities and outdated provisions in the current charter, which lawmakers say have led to institutional confusion and weakened accountability. “This measure seeks to fulfill—not discard—the 1987 Constitution,” the explanatory note reads. “To correct its errors, complete its intent, and reinforce its authority with clarity and coherence.”

The proposed ConCon would comprise 150 elected delegates, with representation from all 18 administrative regions, including the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). Each region would elect three base delegates, with additional seats allocated based on population. Notably, no delegates would be appointed, a move intended to insulate the process from political influence.

Delegates must be natural-born Filipino citizens, at least 25 years old, college graduates, and unaffiliated with any public office. They would also be barred from running for public office for one year after the Convention adjourns.

“The Constitutional Convention offers the most prudent, participatory, and legitimate mechanism for reform,” Puno said. “It invites the nation to confront enduring constitutional ambiguities through reasoned debate, anchored in the rule of law and the people’s voice.”

If passed, the Convention must be convened by July 15, 2026, and complete its work within one year. Proposed amendments would be subject to a national plebiscite within 60 to 90 days of approval, in line with Article XVII of the Constitution.

The bill targets specific areas for clarification, including impeachment procedures, amnesty grants, tax exemptions, and the composition of the Judicial and Bar Council. These provisions have reportedly caused legal conflicts and institutional uncertainty.

The NUP emphasized that the initiative is not intended to overhaul the Constitution but to strengthen its legal foundations. “This process must be participatory and insulated from political influence,” the party said in a statement. “It must be rooted in consultation, scholarship, and the people’s collective will.”

House Bill No. 5870 is now pending review by the appropriate House committee.

The National Unity Party currently holds 43 seats in the House of Representatives, making it the second largest political party in the chamber.