RECENT problems associated with the transmission system of the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) have focused attention on this organization and, specifically, whether there are remedial measures which may be taken to improve matters by reducing the incidence of prolonged power interruptions.
Attention has been drawn to the ownership of the State Grid Corporation of China’s 40 percent stake in NGCP.
As is so often the case with current issues, reference to our 1987 Constitution is helpful.
Article XII – National Economy is particularly articulate.
Section 1 states: ‘The goals of the national economy are a more equitable distribution of opportunities, income, and wealth; a sustained increase in the amount of goods and services produced by the nation for the benefit of the people; and an expanding productivity as the key to raising the quality of life for all, especially the underprivileged.’
Well said. The fight against poverty is particularly relevant. Of great significance is a determined implementation of a leveling up of education standards. COVID was a formidable foe and it is vitally important that we do more to overcome the negative impact of the interruption to education that many of our students have suffered.
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The Constitution addresses directly the question of foreign ownership of corporations. Article XII Section 10 says ‘Congress, shall, upon the recommendation of the economic and planning agency, when the national interest dictates, reserve to citizens of the Philippines or to corporations or associations at least sixty percentum of whose capital is owned by such citizens, or such higher percentage as Congress may prescribe, certain areas of investments. The Congress shall enact the formation and operation of enterprises whose capital is wholly owned by Filipinos.’
In other words, if there is concern about the State Grid Corporation of China’s stake in NGCP, then the Constitution is explicit that Congress is empowered to address the issue.
The Constitution also says (Article XII Section 14). ‘The sustained development of a reservoir of national talents consisting of Filipino scientists, entrepreneurs, professionals, managers, high-level technical manpower and skilled workers and craftsmen in all fields shall be promoted by the State. The State shall encourage appropriate technology and regulate its transfer for the national benefit.’
Are we doing enough in this regard?
Could we develop a more reliable electricity network if we took this section more seriously?/PN
