DAVAO CITY, Philippines — The Communist party of the Philippines-National Democratic Front (CPP/NDF) want a coalition government says President Rodrigo R. Duterte Friday night, December 15.
In his speech before the members of the Davao media, Duterte revealed based on the information he got from the documents submitted while the peace talks with the rebels was ongoing “It all indicates, they want a coalition government.”
“Somehow, at the end of the day, I sum it up, simple arithmetic would tell me that you want a coalition government, ” he said.
Power sharing, he said “They want a coalition government but what can I give when I don’t have?.”
“I cannot give you the fourth or half of the fourth of that sovereignty,” he emphasized.
When it comes to matter of governance, Duterte stressed “We are a sovereign nation and I am the leader,” but he stressed the power emanates from the people.
He said based on the 1987 Philippine Constitution, the politician who will exercise the power of sovereignty should be elected in a Republican Form of Government.
“Sovereignty, according to the Filipino people, by the force of the constitution and the flag, says it is to be exercised not owned by anybody or any politicians, ” he said.
While he was building confidence and trust with the leftist groups, the military doubted his loyalty to the republic.
“The other appointees from left, the Commission on Appointments would not allow them in simply because they are allies with the communists. Unfortunately, I shared the power of appointment with some of the House of Representatives and Senate,” he said.
Some groups criticized Duterte for not pushing for the appointment of the Secretaries identified with the left but he reasoned out “The power to appoint is shared with Congress.”
Duterte terminated the peace talks with the rebels as he felt betrayed because while the talks was ongoing the rebel groups continue to kill government forces and some civilians were even caught in the crossfire.
Members of the communist groups are now considered terrorists.-Armand B. Fenequito Jr.
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