New York Times to PNoy: Step down, stop fighting SC

ABS-CBNnews.com

Posted at 08/28/2014 9:49 PM | Updated as of 08/28/2014 11:15 PM

MANILA - President Benigno Aquino hinting at a new term in office and clipping the Supreme Court's powers threaten Philippine democracy, The New York Times said Thursday.

In an editorial titled "Political Mischief in the Philippines," The New York Times believes that Aquino should step down from office when his term ends in 2016.

It added that the President should stop taking potshots at the high court for declaring parts of the Disbursement Acceleration Program (DAP) as unconstitutional.

The newspaper said Aquino running for the presidency again and limiting the Supreme Court's authority will both require adjusting the Constitution.

"These threats jeopardize Philippine democracy," it said.

"Mr. Aquino wants more time to complete his reform programs, but there will always be unfinished business," it added.

"Mr. Aquino should uphold the Constitution of a fragile democracy if only out of respect for his father, who was assassinated in the struggle against Marcos, and for his mother, who died in 2009 after leading the “people power” that triumphed over the excesses and abuses of the presidency," the New York Times said.

"In practical terms, that means he should stop butting heads with the court and gracefully step down when his term is up," it said. - More on ABS-CBNnews