Zamboanga City - The United States is hoping that proposals of President Arroyo's allies in Congress on how to amend the Constitution would be within the bounds of Philippines laws and regulations, said US Ambassador Kristie Kenney.

"We're closely monitoring. We're watching the very lively democracy [in the Philippines]. We hope that that whatever every step goes forth is that they take place in the context of your own laws and regulations, and that it enhances your democracy," Kenney told Filipino reporters during her visit to Zamboanga City on Thursday.

Kenney said that as a loyal Philippine ally, the US government is waiting for "Philippine experts'" next move on Charter change, particularly the constituent assembly (con-ass) resolution passed by the House of Representatives on Tuesday night.

She said the US is analyzing what the proposal really means and if it would really help improve the Philippines' "lively and noisy democracy."

Kenny also reiterated US Defense chief Robert Gates' statement that their government has confidence in Philippine government officials, and that these officials would allow the 2010 national elections to push through.

In a 30-minute press briefing with Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr., who is determined to run for president in 2010, Gates said they are hoping that Filipinos would be given their chance to elect their next leaders on 2010.

“Well, that is a very hypothetical question on two counts, and I think the way I can answer that is we assume that the elections will go forward successfully. We assume that the people of the Republic of the Philippines will democratically choose a next leader and such choices will never face us,” Gates said.

The administration dominated House of Representatives approved House Resolution 1109 which will convene Congress into a con-ass and propose amendments to the 1987 Constitution, including changes that may prolong President Arroyo's stay in power.

The resolution said Congress can be convened into a con-ass through three-fourths votes of the combined number of members of the House and the Senate.

The Senate had previously signed a resolution declaring that the House's attempts to unilaterally propose amendments or revisions to the Constitution are unconstitutional.

Senators have vowed to block the House-approved con-ass and question it before the Supreme Court. Several senators believe that the House resolution will pave the way for President Arroyo's alleged intent to extend her power beyond 2010. -- With reports from David Santos, ABS-CBN Zamboanga and the Philippine Star