Last August 21, 2008 Malayan Colleges Laguna proudly welcomed the Minority Leader of the Senate, Senator Aquilino Pimentel, Jr. Senator Pimentel delivered a lecture on Federalism. The conference, titled “Rethinking the Option of Federalism in the Philippines”, was a component of the National Situationer Forum, a series of conferences and forums that aim of promoting socio-civic awareness among our students, faculty, staff and other partners.
The program started at 1:00 PM with Engr. Raymond Monterey, technical assistant to the Vice President for Academic Affairs, and a faculty member of the Department of Basic Studies as program host. The Dedication and Prayer was delivered by Nikko Malabuyoc, student of the Mapua Institute of Technology at Laguna. The Opening and Welcome Remarks was delivered by Engr. Dennis H. Tablante, Vice President for Academic Affairs, and Dean of the Mapua Institute of Technology at Laguna. Engr. Tablante highlighted the importance of the National Situationer Forum, and mentioned also the historical significance of August 21 which marks the 25th death anniversary of Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino, Jr.
After the opening remarks, Prof. James Ronald O. Mesina, head of the Social Sciences cluster, and the Convenor of the Nationaol Situationer Forum gave the Overview of the Conference. Prof. Mesina emphasized the need to discuss about Federalism as an option for Constitutional Reform in the Philippines. Prof. Mesina also introduced Senator Pimentel, a great statesman, senator, educator, human rights and democracy advocate, and the champion of local autonomy for local governments.
Senator Pimentel presented the highlights of his bill filed on April 23, 2008 proposing that the Philippines shift to a Federal system of government. In Pimentel’s bill, the Philippines will be apportioned to 11 states, and will become federal just like the vertical structure of the United States’ government. This is basically geared to empowering local governments, and to give them autonomy to generate resources for the effective delivery of social services. Pimentel is also hopeful that Federalism will be a final solution to the decades-old conflict in Mindanao.
After the presentation, open forum followed with Prof. Clarence Darro B. Del Castillo, Prefect of Students as Moderator. Students and faculty members took turns in asking relevant and very important questions to the veteran senator.
After the Open Forum, Senator Pimentel was awarded with a plaque of appreciation as a token of gratitude for his presence. The plaque was given by Engr. Dodjie S. Maestrecampo, Executive Vice President, and Chief Operating Officer; and Dr. Joy G. Hofileña, chair of the Department of Basic Studies.
Senator Pimentel was also requested to sign the official guest book of Malayan Colleges Laguna presented by Engr. Dennis H. Tablante. Senator Pimentel expressed his gratitude to MCL and wrote “I am honored” in the guest book.
The closing remarks was delivered by Engr. Dodjie S. Maestrecampo. The EVP personally thanked Senator Pimentel for accepting MCL’s invitation.
The conference ended at 4:00 in the afternoon. |
