haremouji38

[haremouji38]

Should the Philippines change its constitution, and turn into a federal state?

The Philippine government has long lived with a republican type of government. With the ongoing 1987 constitution, we all see what this constitution is capable of; we experience its benefits, but it also has a hole that makes Filipino citizens experience a hard life. It's been a long time since this constitution was created and used by Filipino citizens, so many people think we should change it. Some politicians, like the former presidents Rodrigo Duterte and Gloria Arroyo and the current president of the Philippines, Bong Bong Marcos, support the idea of the Philippines transforming into a federal state because they believe that it will greatly contribute to our country and is the best option to make the country develop and improve itself. But the question is, should we agree to the idea of the Philippines being a federal state?

In my opinion, I agree with the Philippines transforming into a federal state because I notice that our country needs some change, and this federalism is a good example. We can't live with this constitution forever. Maybe this constitution was not that bad, but it's not that good either. On the other hand, federalism would be beneficial to the country, as the government's plans seem great. Their plan was to divide the Philippines into 11 federal states (shown in the figure above). This aims to divide the powers of the national government into 11 states. With this, the 11 states will have their own power and the right to make a decision without consulting the national government. They will also have their own power over the funds and more resources. Federalism was also an answer to some major issues in our country, like inequality. Unlike a unitary government wherein there is only one government, a city like Manila, where the Malacañang is located, benefits the most from this because the government funds are given mostly to them while the other city is neglected. That's why federalism is one of the answers that will bring equality to the country, as it can distribute the wealth of the country evenly to the states. Some of its benefits were that it can bring the government closer to the people, and states can have their own separate laws from other states that would be needed for them; for example, in the Muslim region, where they have their own beliefs different from ours, locals in states can decide on their own without the national government's approval, etc.

But of course, not all Filipinos are agreed on promoting federalism. There are so many that were against it even some politicians because, for them, it will be used to extend the term limit of some leaders and will entrench political dynasties in the region. With these pros of federalism, of course, there are also some cons but all I can say was even though it has cons still federalism would be a good try for our Government. It's not perfect, like some medicine, it has side effects, but if you ask me, I would much like something new to hope for rather than being content with the things we have right now. Maybe, personally, I don't really been affected by it so nothing seems to change but for the sake of other people who suffer the most, I would like to pursue it because it might change their fate and brings hope to everyone. Yes, I am an idealist, but I want to believe in this federalism and hope that someday it will be implemented in our country.

#Purposive Communication #Federalism #Position Paper #Philippine Government #Idealist rather than hopeless