DTI on federalism: Any form of gov’t can work

FILE: Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ramon Lopez tells the media that DTI is encouraging malls nationwide to provide exhibit space for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) during a press briefing in Malacañang on Thursday (Sept. 22, 2016). (Photo by Albert Alcain/PPD/PNA)

MANILA — The country’s top trade official believes that any system of government can work for the Philippines as long as it is functional and efficient.

On the sidelines of the 6th Regional Competitiveness Summit Thursday, Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon Lopez said he is leaving the discussion on the financial feasibility of the proposed shift to a federal form of government to the country’s macroeconomic managers.

“On the financial feasibility of it, I will concur to what the exercise will do. The review of the financial, I’m there and I won’t refute that because that’s really needed before we shift. That’s the overarching condition. That’s what we need to establish first,” said Lopez.

“Of course, I support the view to further review that part,” he said.

The trade chief pointed out that what is crucial in the Department of Trade and Industry’s point of view is clearly stating the division of functions and roles if the shift to a new system of government pushes through.

“I’m looking at it at the [operationality] rather than risks and costs,” Lopez said.

“I’ll be neutral when it comes to form. I’m not in the political area. Any form can work as long as it will be efficient, select the correct leaders, and roles are clear,” he added in Filipino.

He mentioned that local government units can have the flexibility of offering incentives in order to attract more investors to locate in their areas under the federal system.

“If where we are right now, [it] is working; but if we shift, let’s redefine,” he said.