Letter to the President P-Noy 24th of September, 2013 His Excellency Benigno S. Aquino III President of the Republic of the Philippines Malacanan Palace, Manila Dearest Mr. President, We, the August 26th People’s Coalition – remnants of the historic August 26, 2013 “Million March to Luneta” and comprising of Filipinos of all ages, pledge and commit to fight all forms of corruption in Government without fear of favour, for love of Country, our people and for the next generations. We call on you to certify as urgent, and on Congress to legislate: 1. The abolition of the Pork Barrel, in all forms – Pork Barrel undermines the primary duty of Congress to craft and pass laws for the common good. It preserves and protects vested interests of those who are in power. The present day 10 Billion Pork Barrel (PDAF) Scam and billions more in anomalies of past dispensations are a testament to this evil perpetuating “Social Injustice.” 2. The Freedom of Information – the people’s right to information is a political imperative and inalienable right of those being governed; an element indispensable in a functioning representative democracy. The availability of information leads to more responsible government planning adhering to the principle of “Parens Patria,” and enhances broader public participation to policy objectives and design, which in turn, advances the Nation’s economic efficiency and competitiveness. A free-flow of government information is a vital safeguard against corruption and graft. It exposes ulterior motives and interests that lead to the identification of corrupt government officials. 3. The Prohibition of Political Dynasties – the concentration, consolidation and/or perpetuation of political powers by persons related to one another by affinity and consanguinity breeds corruption, forbid equal opportunities for public service and hinders the formation of genuine political parties. Section 26, Article II of the 1987 Constitution clearly states: “The State shall guarantee equal access to opportunities for public service, and prohibit political dynasties as may be defined by law.” Despite this provision, political dynasties exist and proliferate like mushrooms, and needed implementing law continues to be ignored by each Congress since 1987. We call on the Executive, the Legislative and the Judiciary to work collectively to institute: 4. Speedy Administration of Justice – Prosecute all the parties involved including conniving Senators, Congressmen, Cabinet Members, other government officials and bogus NGOs in the Pork Barrel/PDAF Scam; but beyond this, institute sweeping reforms in our justice system, beginning with practical and basic measures of providing more courts and judges, and revisiting existing Rules of Court. With all the foregoing brought to your attention, we shall continue to support the Reform Agenda of the President and his dispensation, so that Truth, Justice and the Common Good shall prevail. Respectfully Yours, Delmar Topinio Taclibon-August 26th People’s Coalition Secretary General-
Posted on: Thu, 20 Mar 2014 08:49:49 +0000
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