More info for public needed

The proponents of the Federal form of government are on the right track in prioritizing information dissemination regarding Federalism, but the public needs more information, according to Senator Cynthia Villar.

Villar, who was in Cebu the other night as guest speaker of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines Mindanao Island conference said that if legislators and government leaders have to really sit down and study Federalism's pros and cons, how much more the general public.

She said there is a need for the public to be informed and educated on this matter so their doubts, apprehensions and reservations will be addressed, especially since there are also different models of Federalism in place in other countries.

"Ang paglipat sa Federal form of government mula sa present presidential form ay talaga naman maraming pagbabago na ihahatid sa ating lahat o sa buong bansa. Mga pagbabagong positibo sa iba at itinuturing rin naman na negatibo ng iba pa," said Villar in her speech.

Villar added that not everyone readily embraces change, even though the only constant in this world we live in is change. She said that history shows us that change cannot be imposed, it has to be welcomed and embraced for it to succeed and for it to be lasting.

Villar also commended the proponents of Federalism for doing forums and discussions all over the country to engage the people and keep the dialogue open.

"I really commend efforts of everyone in engaging Filipinos about Federalism. Lalo na sa pagsusumikap na marating ang lahat ng mga lugar, lalo na ang mga remotest barangays and towns. Nang sa ganon, when the time comes, we will be assured that they will be able to make an educated decision," she said.

The league conference carried the theme "Pederalismo para sa Pagbabago". —

Mitchelle L. Palaubsanon/ BRP