By: Argyll Cyrus B. Geducos
President Duterte hopes that he would never declare a revolutionary government during the 154th birth anniversary of Filipino revolutionary leader and de facto national hero Andres Bonifacio yesterday.
Several groups have asked Duterte on social media and rallies around the country to declare a revolutionary government to address national problems, particularly the threat of terrorism, criminality, corruption in government, and illegal drugs.
Duterte, in an interview posted over the Facebook page of Communications Assistant Secretary Margaux Uson, said that there is no need for a revolutionary government.
“There’s no need really to declare a revolutionary government. I hope there will never be a time that I will be compelled to call for it,” Duterte told its supporters.
“Only when the Republic of the Philippines is dying, siguro. But other than that, wala,” he added.
Duterte said he would not stop people from joining rallies as they are only expressing their opinion that a revolutionary government will help solve the country’s problems faster.
Malacañang has asked revolutionary government supporters to remain sober as they held their rallies yesterday.
Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said that even if Duterte has already stated that he does not want a revolutionary government, the people are free to voice out their opinions regarding the matter.
The Palace official, however, asked the protesters to ensure that their demonstrations are peaceful and will not inconvenience the public.
“We ask those who would join in today’s demonstrations calling for a revolutionary government to conduct their rallies in a peaceful, orderly manner,” Roque said.
“The President has earlier said that he does not want a revolutionary government. This, however, does not mean he would prevent citizens from expressing their support for a revolutionary government,” he added.
Roque noted that Duterte has articulated, in numerous occasions, that he allows protests and other forms of mass action as long as public safety and convenience are not compromised.
