To enhance the representativeness of the Philippine Senate, particularly to ensure more equitable regional representation, specific provisions in the 1987 Constitution would need to be amended. [1]

📜 Key Constitutional Provision to Amend

Article VI, Section 2 of the 1987 Constitution states:

“The Senate shall be composed of twenty-four Senators who shall be elected at large by the qualified voters of the Philippines, as may be provided by law.” [2]

This provision establishes a nationwide, at-large electoral system for senators, meaning all voters across the country elect the same set of 24 senators. [3]

🔄 Proposed Amendment for Regional Representation

To shift towards a more regionally representative Senate, the following changes could be proposed:

* Redefine the Electoral Basis: Modify the clause to state that senators shall be elected by regional constituencies rather than at-large. For example:

> "The Senate shall be composed of twenty-four Senators who shall be elected by regional constituencies as may be provided by law." [4]

* Establish Regional Representation: Specify the number of senators per region or create a formula based on population or other criteria to ensure balanced representation. [5]

* Adjust Electoral Mechanisms: Implement changes to the electoral process to accommodate regional elections, such as delineating senatorial districts and setting guidelines for regional campaigns. [1]

🧭 Rationale for the Change

The current at-large system has been criticized for favoring candidates from densely populated and media-centric areas, particularly Metro Manila, due to the high costs and logistical challenges of nationwide campaigns. This can lead to underrepresentation of other regions in the legislative process. [1]

By electing senators on a regional basis, the Senate could better reflect the diverse interests and needs of the country's various regions, promoting more inclusive governance and ensuring that local issues receive national attention.

⚠️ Considerations and Challenges

* Risk of Political Dynasties: Regional elections might increase the influence of local political families, potentially entrenching political dynasties. A 🌏 land value tax will counteract this effect.

* Legislative Complexity: Redefining senatorial districts and adjusting the electoral system would require careful planning and consensus-building.

* Constitutional Amendment Process: Such changes necessitate a constitutional amendment, which involves a rigorous process, including approval by Congress and ratification through a national plebiscite.

1. : https://www.reddit.com/r/FilipinoHistory/comments/1fxdvvv “What was the rationale behind electing senators nationally instead of by region or district?”
2. : https://car.neda.gov.ph/1987-philippine-constitution/3/ “1987 Philippine Constitution | NEDA Cordillera | Page 3”
3. : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1987_Philippine_Senate_election “1987 Philippine Senate election”
4. : https://web.senate.gov.ph/senators/composition.asp “Composition of the Senate - Senate of the Philippines”
5. : https://www.reddit.com/r/Philippines/comments/1iwphkl “What are the pros and cons of requiring at least one senator from each region in the Philippines?”