APPC 2017 Critical Perspectives on Federalism for Regional Development

Abstract

Since the beginning of the Duterte administration, federalism has been espoused as an alternative to the centralized system of governance in the Philippines. In its attempt to promote an intelligent discourse on this issue, the Philippine Institute for Development Studies dedicated the Third Annual Public Policy Conference (APPC) to the discussion of federalism under the theme, "Critical Perspectives on Federalism for Regional Development". Through the APPC, the Institute convened local and international experts and scholars to promote awareness and appreciation of the importance of policy research in crafting relevant and evidence-based policies and programs related to federalism. It specifically focused on the fiscal design and political feasibility of federalism in the country, as well as state boundaries under a federal republic. The Institute hopes that the recommendations raised in these proceedings will serve as a practical resource for the public and policymakers alike, especially as they make informed decisions regarding the adoption of federalism in the Philippines.