Is the concept of People Power recognized in the Constitution? Discuss briefly.

POLITICAL LAW QUESTION 2000

SUGGESTED ANSWER:

Yes, the concept of People Power is recognized in the Constitution. Under  Section 32. Article VI of the Constitution, through initiative and referendum, the people can directly propose and enact laws or approve or reject any act or law or part thereof passed by the Congress or local legislative body after the registration of a petition therefor signed by at least ten per centum of the total number of registered voters, of which every legislative district must be represented by at least three per centum of the registered voters thereof. Under Section 16, Article XIII of the Constitution, the right of the people and their organizations to effective and reasonable participation at all levels of social, political and economic decision-making shall not be abridged. The State shall, by law facilitate the establishment of adequate consultation mechanisms. Under Section 2. Article XVII of the Constitution, the people may directly propose amendments to the Constitution through initiative upon a petition of at least twelve percentum of the total number of registered voters, of which every legislative district must be represented by at least three per centum of the registered voters therein.