Federalism: Double Edged

BY WINMARK BOMBIO

Issues of federalism are circulating in our country and as usual multi-faceted stories and features are proliferating in the mass media – specifically social media. Many are expressing their opinion, yes it is not bad but, if their opinion regarding this issue is not based on facts, it can be dangerous.

In pursuit to a Charter Change, the state and the people should have a proper knowledge about federalism.

Embracing a federal form of government is like using a double-edged sword in the battlefield—the first edge pointed into the development, while the other pointed into diversity. It seems like a sacred weapon, that if not used correctly, may destroy the user itself. Experts are still debating about which form of government will best suit our country – whether it is the one which promotes unity beyond diversity or the one that is promoting a central government. Image courtesy of google.com

Advantages Anti-Red Tape Immediate Initiative Power Management Federalism encourages local initiatives and strengthens these initiatives in their pursuit of their local goals. The states are individually independent in solving their problems, thus they are able to make comprehensive decisions specifically designed to their own states. Federalism disperses power and allows power redistribution. It also increases political participants. The increase in political participants will result to a variety of talents and an improvement to workforce. Federalism cuts the red tape. Imagine a land faraway from Manila wherein all of the schools, police, engineers, hospitals and fire department were controlled by someone in Manila, the action will be so delayed and people will be confused.

Disadvantages

Divisive Culture Welcoming the separation of states, federalism seeks extreme divide between the people—economically, socially and even spiritually. Federalism allows the benefits provided by the government to spread uniquely as regions entertain its own needs.

State Rivalry According to Kami.com.ph, Philippines is a diverse nation composed of unique groups and ethnic tribes of Filipinos. Whereas, federalism encourages a healthy competition between Filipinos; however due to indifference of autonomous regions, it may further introduce hostile rivalry, since most authentic cultures and beliefs overlap.

Federalism promotes states to focus on their own. The idea of letting the states independently govern their community is a risk if not observed carefully by the government. Looking on the battlefield and digging deeper to the war between ourselves, viewing and understanding the features of federalism will subdue weaknesses and definitely raise and enhance the strengths.