Presidential form of gov't incorrigible—Abueva

By Maricar M. Calubiran

“The presidential form of government is 'incorrigible' and it is difficult to reverse the practices of our leaders,” said Dr. Jose V. Abueva, former president of the University of the Philippines and one of the country's noted political scientists.

Abueva said the presidential system is unstable. It is “too politicized even the military”. The military is behaving like an “arbiter”. They decide whether the president should remain in power or not.

He explained should President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo survive the impeachment and the move towards parliamentarianism succeeds, the country will experience another transition. The President will continue to serve her term until 2006. She will also act as the first transitory Prime Minister and ceremonial president from 2007 until 2010.

Abueva said Vice President Noli de Castro would succeed if Mrs. Arroyo is removed from office through the impeachment proceedings. However, the 12 senators who were also elected will become automatic members of the parliament until 2010. “We have to honor the equity of terms of elected officials.”

Abueva was here Friday during a symposium on federalism hosted by the city government and Iloilo City Hall Press Corps. He is advocating for the federal parliamentary form of government.

The term of the congressmen, governor, vice governor, mayor and vice mayor will end on 2007.

“It is a difficult process because it needs careful transition.” Abueva continued.

Abueva who is advocating for a federal form of government said they are basing their proposition on deep study experience through the years and it is not based on textbook.

Abueva also lamented the inability of Congress to pass progressive legislations. Our country has no strong party system. The political parties in the country are “personality oriented” and not “project oriented parties.”

The country's law is weak. There is lack of accountability in national leaders. Graft and corruption is present in government while the deficit is mounting, said Abueva.