President Duterte has once again underscored the need to shift to the federal form of government, believing that it will pave way for the country’s economic growth and development especially in Mindanao.
Duterte reiterated his readiness to step down even before the end of his term once the country shifts to a federal form of government.
According to Duterte, if federalism is passed within three years, he will give up the presidency.
“I give you my word, if the framework is already there, I will resign to give way to a new president. Wala na kayong isipin pa,” he said in a speech at the Kabunsuan Cultural Complex in Cotabato City where he graced the launching of the Comprehensive Reform and Development Agenda for the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao and other conflict affected areas in Mindanao.
He again urged Congress to hurry the process and said, “Ako na mismo ang magsabi alis na ako. Hindi ako maghintay ng six years…kapag nandiyan na ‘yang federal.”
The President has long advocated for federalism to bring about lasting peace in Mindanao.
In his first State-of-the-Nation Address last July, Duterte said he was willing to call for a presidential election the next day or week if Congress passes the amendments to the Constitution.
He repeated this statement on Saturday. “If there is a federal type already set…Ako mismo I will resign. I give you my word I will give way para (sa) federal (system).”
“Accelerate federalism and let us find a configuration of government where regions are really powerful,” Duterte, addressing Congress, said.
“Kanya-kanyang region bahala kayo kung ano ang gusto ninyo dito. Bilisan lang ninyo,” he added. (ELENA L. ABEN)