Angara: Federalism still has a long way to go

MANILA, Philippines—The push for a federal form of government still has a “long way to go” even as the majority of senators are allies of President Rodrigo Duterte, who has been calling for a shift to federalism, reelected senator Sonny Angara said Wednesday.

“That’s a long way to go. Marami pang usapan ‘yan. Marami pang dayalogo (A lot of discussions and dialogues are still needed),” Angara told reporters.

Angara, who won his reelection bid after ranking 6th in the Senate race with more than 18 million votes, said federalism still needs to be explained to the people.

“I think it needs to be explained better to the people. Hindi pa masyado naintindihan siguro more on grass roots explanation, consultations (The idea is still not that well-understood),” Angara said.

“Explanation din kung ano ‘yung cons ng federalism kasi parang we’re explaining the benefits pero ‘yung cons sa taumbayan hindi,” he added.

Since assuming the presidency, Duterte has been pushing for constitutional amendments that would pave the way for the nation’s shift to a federal form of government.

Duterte believes federalism would help spur progress throughout the country.

But despite Duterte’s federalism push, Congress did not prioritize passage of the proposed amendment to the 1987 Constitution.  (Editor: Gilbert S. Gaviola)

READ: Senate: Charter change is not urgent