Federalization must reflect people’s will

It appears nowadays that President Duterte’s move for a switch to a federal system of government from the present presidential system has become a national agenda.

I believe that a constitutional convention in which the framers and delegates are directly elected by their constituents from their respective districts should be held to avoid doubt and suspicion that the federal system was forced upon the Filipino people using the constituent assembly as a vehicle for its approval.

If the convention is held under a cloud of doubt as to its credibility, the national outrage will be incalculable. A political testament like a switch to federalism should reflect the people’s clamor and popular will.

Election of delegates to the convention is a safety valve against criticism as to its timeliness and validity.

RAMON L. BOISER

Batulao Road, Central Park, Bangkal, Davao City