Let me clarify the errant impression that I said the shift in the Senate leadership will be favorable to the amendment of the economic provisions in the 1987 Constitution.

I never made such a definitive or categorical statement. Moreover, I will not be heartened by such a change in the Senate’s posture because I have been consistently opposed to the weakening, elimination or alienation of the constitutional ratio in favor of Filipino citizens and enterprises in sensitive industries like public utilities, education and advertising.

Furthermore, in talks with knowledgeable personages in the Senate I am informed that the extraordinary vote of three-fourths (3/4) to approve a proposed amendment cannot be obtained in the Senate.

EDCEL C. LAGMAN