Shift to federal form of government pressed

Former Executive Secretary Edelmiro Amante revived yesterday the call for Charter change by pressing for the shift to a federal form of government.

Amante, a former congressman from Agusan del Norte, said the Arroyo administration could help foster the growth and development of Mindanao by heeding its residents’ "overwhelming clamor" for federalism.

He said the highly centralized form of government where nothing moves unless approved by Metro Manila is setting back the development of areas outside the metropolis.

Amante said about 500 mayors from Mindanao, 500 mayors from the Visayas and an equal number from Luzon spend a lot of time and effort following up their projects and fund requests with various government offices in Metro Manila.

"The government could save at least P3 billion a year under a federal system, with each state having the power and resources to chart its own course," Amante said.

Senators Aquilino Pimentel Jr., John Osmeña and Francisco Tatad filed a resolution last year calling for the shift to a federal form of government.

The proposed convening of Mindanao and Visayan leaders early this month in Cebu City to press the shift was shelved because of the impeachment trial of President Estrada.

Amante said the resolution would provide a good start for deliberations on the governmental shift. — Efren Danao