Former Senate President Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III has urged Filipinos to support the proposed shift to a federal type of government as he called on the public to be vigilant and hold leaders accountable for their actions.
In his Independence Day message, Pimentel called on the public to reaffirm their commitment to nation-building by exercising their political rights and selecting good leaders who will put the interest of the country first.
“Ultimately, bringing our country from the Third World to the First World requires constant effort on our part to select good leaders, to always put the interests of the country first, and eternal vigilance in holding our leaders accountable for their actions,” he said in a statement on Tuesday.
Pimentel, president of PDP-Laban, touted federalism as a solution for “unequal growth of regions” that left large parts of the country in poverty while other areas enjoy economic growth.
“We have bold solutions available, such as Federalism, but it can only do so much,” he said.
For the senator, independence from Spanish and American colonialism was just the first step to improving the quality of life of all Filipinos.
“We cannot falter in securing the gains we have made since our independence. Filipinos must use their political rights to empower their countrymen, especially the poor and needy,” he said.
After stepping down as Senate president in May, Pimentel vowed to devote his time in promoting federalism across the country. /ee
READ: Koko Pimentel plans to go around PH to promote federalism