PRRD pushes for intensive info campaign about Federalism

President Rodrigo R. Duterte ran on three campaign platforms: corruption, drugs and federalism.

While the campaign against drugs and corruption are gaining headway, Duterte laments the lack of interest of Filipinos on Federalism.

But the stubborn former Davao

City mayor is not about to give up on a legacy he wants to leave the Filipino people thinking it is best system of governance given our circumstances.

Communications Secretary Martin Andanar in a radio interview said the President has ordered a massive information campaign on federalism so that the people will understand it better.

"Federalism was part of the President’s platform of government during the campaign, and we will continue this push for federalism," he added.

In fact, Duterte is now trying to tap the private media organizations since government channels, including the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) seem not enough.

Former senator Aquilino Pimentel Jr., the acclaimed Father of the Local Government Code and federalism advocate is actively campaigning for federalism in the countryside to explain the benefits of a federal form of government.

Duterte has been campaigning for a federal government even before he ran for President. But it seems it has not gained popular support.

On Tuesday, the President complained, "It (federalism) does not seem to ring a bell in the Visayas and Mindanao or, if at all, [only among] those who are really dedicated and are thinking Filipinos," he said, adding that he was expecting the people there, especially those in Mindanao, to support his campaign because the shift would benefit them.

Duterte is pushing for a federal government in hopes that it will resolve the Mindanao conflict.

In one of his talks, the President said he is willing to compromise with broadcast media giant ABS-CBN if the network would help promote federalism.

"If you will help and make the federal system campaign your slogan, also for the unity and to preserve this Republic, makipag-areglo ako (I will compromise)," Duterte said.

Duterte has attacked ABSCBN for allegedly failing to air his campaign ads despite receiving payment and for reporting on his alleged hidden wealth.

"I will not ask for anything. Just dedicate a portion of your time, your expensive and precious time on TV. Help us promote federalism, only the good ones," he added.

Presidential spokesman Harry Roque said the Palace understands why Filipinos seem to be not receptive to the federal shift.

"Truth to tell is it’s difficult to understand sometimes how the change of government to federalism will address our everyday problem," Roque said.