To raise the Public's awareness on the proposed Constitutional Change to Federalism, a Federalism Convention, which is a part of the Federalism Roadshow, was conducted on September 27, 2018 at Bren Z. Guiao Convention Center, City of San Fernando, Pampanga.
About 3,000 delegates from all over Central Luzon including the Local Chief Executives, SK Presidents, different NGAs, CSOs and LnB presidents were gathered for the said convention.
Currently, Region 3 is one of the 3 regions together with NCR and CALABARZON that account for the country's 63% total GDP. Hence, Federalism promotes empowerment of Local Government Units and increase of funds through autonomy.
During the said activity, Professor Eddie Alih explained why a shift to Federalism is important and more applicable to our country. It is the step along the way in the journey for better governance and progressive Philippines. "Bakit natin kailangan magpalit ng Sistema? Dahil napakayaman ng Pilipinas, mahirap pa rin ang mga Pilipino. Masosolusyonan ito ng pederalismo", he quoted.
Under Federal government, Region 3 shall be called "State of Central Luzon" with Tarlac City as its proposed Capital.
"Walang ibang hangad ang constitution kung hindi mapaunlad ang sitwasyon ng ating bansa", said Asec. Jonathan Malaya during his presentation of the activity's rationale.
Likewise, Sec. Gary Olivar and Atty. Ferdinand M. Bocobo, members of the Consultative Committee to review the 1987 Constitution, presented their topic in the convention. The official jingle of the convention was also launched during the campaign.