New York Times slams PNoy over term extension, clipping SC powers

MANILA, Philippines - President Benigno Aquino III's hints at term extension and his proposal to limit the powers of the Supreme Court are "threats" that "jeopardize Philippine democracy," the New York Times warned in a recent editorial.

In the opinion piece Political Mischief in the Philippines published online on Thursday, the New York Times criticized Aquino for his openness to amend the 1987 Constitution, which was promulgated under his mother, the late president Corazon Aquino.

The New York Times said Aquino should uphold the Constitution of a "fragile democracy" out of respect for his parents, both of whom are regarded as democracy icons.

"In practical terms, that means he should stop butting heads with the court and gracefully step down when his term is up," the New York Times said.

In an exclusive interview with TV5 early this month, Aquino first expressed his openness to Charter Change, citing the need to clip the immense powers of the Supreme Court.

In another exclusive interview aired on Thursday, this time with Bombo Radyo, Aquino said the Supreme Court meddles too much in political issues, making it more difficult for him to run the government.

"Perhaps judicial reach needs to be reviewed and limited," Aquino said.

The President said the high court's power to check other branches of government should be used sparingly and with restraint "but what seems to be is happening now is it is used often."

Aquino's suggestion to amend the Constitution due to the supposed judicial overreach fueled speculations that he is also open to the idea of lifting the president's single, six-year term limit.

But in the Bombo Radyo interview, Aquino clarified that his support for Charter Change has nothing to do with term extension, adding that he is looking forward to relinquish the presidency.

Read: What Aquino will do after his term ends

"Ako ba ang nag-aambisyon na pahabain [ang termino]?" Aquino said.

Aquino, however, still left open the possibility of seeking a longer term, reiterating that he listens to the orders of his bosses, the Filipino people.

He recalled that there have been ordinary people telling him to stay in office.

The President admitted that he is now consulting various sectors on how to ensure that his reforms are continued beyond 2016.

Read: Mixed signals from Aquino on term extension

The New York Times editorial said "Aquino wants more time to complete his reform programs, but there will always be unfinished business." -Louis Bacani