By Billy Begas
Former House Speaker and Davao del Norte Rep. Pantaleon Alvarez on Monday renewed his call to amend the 1987 Constitution, believing that it would create opportunities for regions outside Manila to grow and prosper.
Alvarez said federalism will promote regional development, attract more investments, and provide a more equitable distribution of wealth and resources. He also believes that federalism will address long-standing issues of poverty, inequality, and political dynasties in the country.
“Charter Change is not just a political issue, it’s a moral imperative! We owe it to our children and future generations to create a better, more prosperous Philippines,” Alvarez said.
Alvarez urged the public to support Charter change, “particularly the kind that hits all important points instead of just a few problematic provisions, especially if a complete revision helps uplift the lives of more Filipinos and give them a better and comfortable life they deserve.”
The House of Representatives approved Resolution of Both Houses no. 6 and its implementing bill last March. The Senate has yet to approve the proposals.
“We cannot afford to remain stagnant while other countries are moving forward. ‘Yang Vietnam na lang tignan ‘nyo. Nalagpasan na naman tayo sa Foreign Direct Investments (FDI) has already surpassed us. Lagi nalang ba tayong magpapahuli? Kahit sa pagbibigay ng mas magandang oportunidad at mas maayos na pamumuhay para sa mga Pilipino? We must take action now and embrace this change for the sake of our people,” Alvarez added.
Alvarez stressed that decentralizing governance will spur economic growth in the regions by giving them the right to self-determination.
“Mas malayo ka sa Maynila, mas maliit ang GDP share mo, mas mataas rin ang poverty incidence! Bakit? Because the majority of the resources and projects have been concentrated and implemented in the Imperial Manila. The inequality in terms of resource sharing has been a menace in the countryside that deprives these regions and provinces from progressing as they should be,” he pointed out.
Alvarez also said that a parliamentary form of government is worth exploring given that it may be more efficient and stable than a presidential form of government which is prone to instability and lack of continuity regarding long-term policies essential to pull the country out of its lackluster orbit.
