University of San Carlos

Department of Political Science

Philippine Government & Constitution

Art XVII. Amendments or Revisions

Constitution of Sovereignty

Distinguish between
Amendment(s) VS. Revision(s)

Similarity: Both entail a change in the Constitution

Difference(s): Amendment pertains to piecemeal
changes in the constitution without affecting the
foundation of the charter. Revision on the other hand
is a complete overhaul of the charter.
Nota Bene: The number of changes to be incurred is not
material!

Simple Steps
to Amend or Revise the Constitution

I. Initiation
II. Amendment or Revision Proper
III. Ratification

I. Who will initiate and what method will be

used?
1.) Congress to be TRANSFORMED into a CONSTITUENT
ASSEMBLY
How? If the vote requirement is obtained by the members of
Congress voting separately. (Sec. 1)
2.) Constitutional Convention
How? If the 2/3 vote requirement is met by the members of
Congress or if pass to the people and the majority vote requirement
is obtained. (Sec. 1 (2) & Sec. 3)
3.) People through INITIATIVE
Limitations:
Amendments only
Voting requirement
No amendment within 5 yrs. after the ratification nor oftener than once
every 5 yrs. (Sec. 2)

II. Amendment or Revision Proper

III. Ratification
Where? In a PLEBISCITE (majority vote from
the electorate is required) (Sec. 4)