A Federalism Media Forum dubbed as “Pederalismo Para sa Tunay na Pagbabago” was conducted during Regional Federalism Roadshow spearheaded by the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) held at the Executive House of the Pampanga provincial capitol in the City of San Fernando, Pampanga on Wednesday.
DILG Central Luzon regional ditector Julie Daquioag said that the said first phase 2-day federalism roadshow aims to help enlighten the people about proposed federal system of government started with the concern government agencies such as the DILG, Philippine Information Agency (PIA) and the national and local media to be able to relay by spreading the right informations and details of a federal government.
During the forum, resource person Professor Eddie Alih, Commissioner of Consultative Committee to Review the 1987 Constitution discussed the difference between a unitary and federal government particularly in political and social reforms.
He said that the Bayanihan Federalism is our own kind of reform and proposed constitution wherein the DILG leads the initiative in pushing the proposed new form of government.
The problem in the political dynasty was also tackled after learning that the issue here is getting worsening.
ConCom Commissioner Edmund Tayao also explained the creation and structure of states/ subnational governments and creation of federated regions.
It was learned that the drafts were already been made and will be explained and distribute through ongoing roadshows to enlighten the people particularly in remote barangays to know what really federalism is and what it will benefit them.
Tayao also confirmed that definitely there will be a plebicite but when it will be is still in process.
DILG ASec. Jonathan Malaya said that thru federalism, it will also resolve agri problems by giving the regions the power that can serve as the solution to the consequences of a system that concentrates decision-making to only a few.
The regional government will then have the power and funds to invest in innovations, technologies and infrastractures that would assist farmers, he said.
The next regional roadshow is set in Cotabato City and Dipolog in Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) on October 3-4. ELOISA SILVERIO