3 Advantages of federalism in the Philippines in 2019
Is federalism good for the Philippines?
This question is part of the ongoing debate about President Rodrigo Duterte’s plan to change the form of government in the country into federalism.
Whatever your opinion about federalism in the Philippines is, it would be based on its benefits for the country.
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So what exactly are the benefits of federalism in the Philippines?
1. Decentralization
In Duterte’s federalism, local governments can decide for themselves. Regions or states are allowed by federalism to create solutions to their own problems, implement policies for their improvement, and make decisions for their own good without having to ask Malacañang for their decision.
For example, the United States have some states like Washington and Colorado that allow citizens to use recreational cannabis while other states do not. The local government units will also have no more excuse for delayed and low-quality projects and programs because they will not be able to blame the national government anymore.
One of the advantages of decentralization is that local government units will also have no more excuse for delayed and low-quality projects and programs because they will not be able to blame the national government anymore.
2. Economic effects
What about the economic effects of a federal government?
Improvement of local economy is considered as one of the pros of federal government.
The federal system allows local governments have more power over their resources. In the Philippines’ current form of government, local government units have to turn a big bulk of their funds to the national government.
A federal constitutional system will allow the autonomous regions or states to use the majority of their funds for their own development and without needing a go signal from Malacañang.
3. Less dependence on Metro Manila
One of the most common federalist arguments is that a federal constitution would lead to less dependence on Metro Manila when it comes to finding jobs and establishing businesses.
A whopping 35 percent of the country’s budget was given to Metro Manila even if it represents only 14 percent of the total population.
One importance of federalism is that it allows fiscal autonomy for local governments.
The positive side of this particular aspect is that the country’s wealth will be more evenly distributed among the state governments. Lots of people also go to Metro Manila to find stable jobs and establish businesses. Federalism, if it leads to economic improvement for the autonomous regions, might lead to more job opportunities and business investments outside Metro Manila.
Now that you know the perceived positive effects and merits of federal government, is federalism good for the Philippines?
RELATED: What are the disadvantages of federal government?
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the original author. These views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of Kami.com.ph, its editors or other contributors.
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