MANILA, Philippines — The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) wants the proposed federal form of government to be an “election issue” or a basis for assessing candidates in the 2019 polls.
“We will make it an election issue by challenging our people to vote on the basis of issues, not on the basis of personalities,” DILG Assistant Secretary and Spokesperson Jonathan Malaya said in a press conference at the sidelines of the National Federalism Summit.
Malaya said some voters favor famous candidates, even former celebrities, running for elective positions. But this time, the public should vote from pressing issues, including federalism, which is being pushed by the Duterte administration.
“We challenge them to please vote this time on the basis of issues. So why don’t we use federalism, for example, as a barometer to determine whether we support this candidate or not?” said Malaya.
“If you are for federalism, then you should vote not for a famous personality or an actor or a basketball player, you should vote for someone who believes in your advocacy,” he added.
Malaya, however, clarified that the DILG would not campaign for candidates who support federalism.
He also said the government’s campaign for federalism would continue even during the election period, but it will not be as intensified so the voting public can focus on the candidates. /ee