The objective of the forum was to educate the barangay leaders and the APO members about the intricacies of Federalism, including its social and historical grounds and the step-by-step process of transition.
Atty. Samuel C. Occeña figuratively compared the structure of the proposed Federal Republic of the Philippines to a solar system wherein the sun, which is the capital region, is surrounded by all other planets which symbolized all other regions or states outside the National Capital Region.
The president of Centrist Democracy Political Institute and Centrist Democratic Party of the Philippines chairman, Mr. Lito Monico C. Lorenzana gave a feisty talk about federalism, its concept and response to usual objections to federalization.
Mr. Lorenzana emphasized the importance of satisfying the preconditions of federalism in his talk as he one by one elaborated the details of these preconditions. Without these necessities, federalism cannot deliver the profound changes we wish to take place in our society.
Federalism thrives in a strong state with an educated citizenry. The PDU30 CORE together with private individuals and groups who share similar ambition of federalism are the prime movers and conveners of forums, symposiums and education drives across all regions in the Philippines. A group of enthusiastic and like-minded individuals who are now the forerunners of federalism.
* * *
