CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga — Consultative Committee to Review the 1987 Constitution (ConCom) assures a smooth transition from the current Presidential-Unitary system to a Federal-Presidential system should it hurdle Congress and approved by the people through a plebiscite.
In his discussion during a Media Forum in Pampanga, ConCom Commissioner Eddie Alih said a Federal Transition Commission (FTC) will be created once the proposed new constitution wins a plurality of affirmative votes in the plebiscite.
“It shall be composed of 10 members who are natural-born citizens of the country, and with proven integrity, independence and expertise in the fields of economy, the law, fiscal management, governance and development. All living past presidents shall serve as consultants of the commission,” Alih explained.
FTC, as stated in the proposed “Bayanihan Federalism” constitution, is tasked to formulate a transition plan that will be published in the Official Gazette, in any two newspapers of general circulation and digital platforms.
“The commission shall promulgate rules, regulations, orders, decrees, proclamations and other issuances. All acts are set to implement as is. While resolving all issues and disputes that may be arise,” Alih furthered.
FTC is likewise tasked to reorganize and fully establish the Federal Government and the governments of the Federated Regions; and formulate a transition plan on revenue generation, appropriation and expenditure.
“They are not alone in doing its job. They must ensure wider people’s participation by involving civil society, faith-based, indigenous peoples, sectoral, non-government and other community-based organizations in the transition period most importantly in the selection and screening processes of appointees to the new Federal government,” Alih said.
The Media Forum was part of the two-day Federalism Roadshow which was organized by the Department of the Interior and Local Government in partnership with the provincial government of Pampanga, city government of San Fernando, and Philippine Information Agency.