Duterte should learn from missed opportunities of ’86 revolt

Peter Wallace was correct in stating that President Duterte was a “revolutionary choice” (“PH needs a revolution,” 10/3/19). I thought so. That is why I voted for him.

Conditions are different now than during the 1986 People Power Revolution. Mr. Duterte, however, can still take some lessons from missed opportunities of the 1986 revolution like:

In the political sector, the 1987 Constitution should have authorized the confiscation, not sequestration, of the unexplained wealth of the Marcos cronies; the banning of leaders and officials who collaborated with the dictatorship in any manner from holding appointive or elective positions up to the fourth degree of consanguinity or affinity in the postrevolutionary government, etc.

In the economic sector, financial improvement of the lowest class through entrepreneurship and by providing them with capital; new opportunities to the middle class to augment their income; moderate taxes on the upper class to strengthen their business, etc.

For foreign investment, allow 100-percent ownership of business for global competition; allow 100-percent ownership of condominium properties; 99-year lease of agricultural, industrial and commercial real estates.

For social and cultural transformation, Wallace is correct: Start with change in attitude, values, vision and mission. Free education for the poor up to collegiate level, etc.

EMMANUEL T. SANTOS, Ph.D.
[email protected]