Palace respects Sara Duterte’s anti-federalism stance

April 29, 2019

Malacanang said on Monday it respects the withdrawal of support of presidential daughter Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio on federalism.

In a press briefing, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo expressed belief Carpio's change of heart would not affect the administration's stance for the government's shift to federalism.

"Well, you know, everyone of us has her/his own ideas on how to solve certain problems. Mayor Sara has her own concept. We respect that," he said.

Carpio said she was no longer interested in federalism as this could only empower warlords in Mindanao.

The shift to federalism is one of the priority agenda of the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte.

Panelo said it would be the framers of the Constitution who would decide on changing the Charter.

"It's not Mayor Sara or Mayor Duterte or President Duterte. It's still the framers of the Constitution that will decide, and ultimately, the people of the Philippines," said Panelo, also the chief presidential legal counsel.

He said whether Carpio's position against federalism could influence others, it would be up to "each individual conscience" of the framers of the Constitution and the people.

"It's still the Filipinos who will decide. Even if it's in the provision of the Constitution, but if they will reject the entire draft, then there's no (Charter change)," he said.

But he reiterated that the Palace is still pushing for federalism.

"And we welcome all other contra-positions and let the people decide," he added. Celerina Monte/DMS