Amendment
An addition or change within the lines of the original constitution
– Effect: An improvement, that shall carry out better the purpose for which it was framed;
– a change that adds, reduces or deletes without altering the basic principles involved;
– affects only the specific provision being amended
[Lambino v. COMELEC, supra]
Revisions
A change that alters a basic principle in the constitution, like altering the principle of separation of powers or the system of checks and balances;
– alters the substantial entirety of the constitution, as when the change affects substantial provisions of the constitution
[Lambino v. COMELEC, supra]
Distinction
Amendment generally and broadly affects only specific provisions; whereas revision affects several provisions and basically alters the meaning of the provisions it revises.
Subject to Judicial Review
Courts do not intervene on questions or issues that are political in nature
Courts, however, may review amendments if it followed the constitutional process
[Lambino v. COMELEC, supra].
Tests to determine whether the Proposal is an Amendment or Revision