Palace: Duterte open to leading transition gov’t to federalism but “only until 2022”

(Eagle News) — President Rodrigo Duterte is open to leading the country’s transition to a federal type of government.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said on Monday, July 9, this was provided “it is only until 2022.”

“He has made a personal decision. It’s only until 2022. Earlier, if possible,” Roque said.

Roque gave the assurance as critics alleged Duterte was pushing for an amendment to the Constitution to ensure his stay in power.

Former Chief Justice Renato Puno, who chairs the Consultative Committee tasked to look at the 1987 Constitution and make recommendations on how the shift to a federal type of government should take place, said that according to the proposed charter, the terms of Duterte and Vice President Leni Robredo shall end on June 30, 2022.

“Hihingin daw niya (Duterte) sa Kongreso na maglagay ng probisyon na talagang wala nang pag-asang makatakbong muli sa iba pang eleksyon ang presidente,” Roque said.

He said Duterte would do this once the report of the ConCom was submitted to Congress.