Duterte asked to certify urgent bill seeking seat of power transfer to Davao City

Two party-list lawmakers have requested President Rodrigo Duterte to certify as urgent their measure seeking to transfer the seat of government from Metro Manila to Davao City.

In a letter dated January 23, made available to the media on Thursday, Kabayan party-list Representatives Ron Salo and Ciriaco Calalang asked the President for support by including House Bill 6968 in the priority measures of the current administration.

According to them, the bill seeks to address the issue of "Manila imperialism" and spur development in the countryside, particularly in Mindanao.

The measure also seeks to strengthen nationalism and sense of belongingness for the people in the countryside, and decongest Metro Manila and its traffic.

If approved, the bill will push for the establishment of a National Government Center in Davao City, where several government offices, including the Presidential and Vice Presidential Palace, Senate, House of Representatives, Supreme Court.

"This Bill is our humble contribution to the laudable efforts being taken and measures being pushed by the administration to address various concerns that have significant impact to our country," their letter read.

"We are hopeful that this proposed measure will be able to address existing issues that plague Philippine society and its economy, as well as create potential opportunities for progress and significant development, especially in the countryside," it added.

Calalang replaced Harry Roque as representative of Kabayan party-list, after the latter has vacated his post following his appointment as presidential spokesperson.