Federalism and the Philippines

It may turn out good; it may also become a disaster. The only thing certain for now is it would still take time for a federal Philippines to emerge.

As in the many fora the Department of Interior and Local Government conducted, the questions far outnumber the answers. And the questions continue multiplying.

Yet the most basic question really is: are we ready for federalism? Are we, as a people and as an electorate politically mature enough for this?

Federalism may turn out to be good for the Philippines. It will render “Imperial Manila” useless, and will task each state—or regional—government to chart their own course. Public services may also become better, faster and more efficient. As it is, it will also bring governance truly closer to the people.

But are we really ready for it? Is the Filipino electorate mature enough for it? And are our politicians prepared to become real public servants instead of what most of them are today?

For if we are not, we will simply be handing our country’s political dynasties their own kingdoms and fiefdoms with nothing in between. And from whatever perspective, federalism then becomes the catalyst that will truly bury all the aspirations of the Filipino people for a better tomorrow.

And as much as some people are trying to put this issue in front and center today, our very own Philippine president is facing the other way; threatening to install a revolutionary government—apparently to install federalism, or so his closest advisers say.

It is quite more than a stretch to promise federalism and later taunt the country with a revolutionary government. Of course, the president’s reasons are always esoteric—but not in an intelligent way, rather in a way only he and his loyal base understand what he really means; and as such will only later serve them and no one else. And if his taunts are simply in response to criticisms, then our country may soon drown in pettiness. And more madness, even.

As in everything any sane, decent and thinking person will try do, we must first make sure the type of federalism we need; then ascertain that this type will solve all the problems that face our country today—or at least point it towards that direction; and then guarantee that the governments that will emerge will listen better to the people and really try their best to make Filipino lives truly better. And that they will respect every Filipinos’ rights more than what they are doing now.

Otherwise, this will just be another exercise in futility.