MANILA, Philippines - President Benigno Aquino III has not made a decision on whether he would seek a second term, Malacañang said Wednesday.
Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said those accusing Aquino of trying to get another term through Charter Change have gone ahead of themselves and prejudged the President.
"There are some who believe that the President should do one more term. The President has not made his mind on that. The President said in his interview that 'I consult the people,'" Lacierda said at a televised press briefing.
Lacierda was referring to Aquino's interview with TV5 wherein he revealed that he is open to amending the Constitution to clip the immense powers of the judiciary.
Charter change could pave the way for lifting the six-year term limit of the chief executive. When asked in the interview if he wants a term extension, Aquino said he listens to his bosses - the Filipino people.
Aquino, however, clarified that this does not automatically mean that he would seek reelection.
The President's statements prompted some of his allies at the House of Representatives, led by Caloocan City Representative Edgar Erice, to push for Charter change to extend Aquino's term.
Malacañang denied giving orders to its allies.
"There are no movements from the Palace to amend the Charter. There's no orchestrated move. People are saying there is. There is none," Lacierda said.