Duterte to ensure smooth transition of power

MANILA, Philippines — The Filipino public can be assured that the Duterte administration will guide the country’s next leaders to ensure a seamless transition of power, Sen. Bong Go said.

“The President and his transition team have already prepared for a smooth and systematic transfer of office. The goal is not to delay government service and continue assistance for our countrymen, especially those most in need,” Go said.

He added that agencies in the executive department are following Duterte’s order to guarantee a smooth transition of power next month.

“Even the various departments have been prepared because that is the order of our President to his Cabinet. The incoming heads of departments and agencies are assured that their new offices will be in good condition so they can carry out their mandates in line with the direction that will be taken by the new administration,” he also said.

On May 10, Duterte signed Administrative Order 47 to create a Presidential Transition Committee to monitor the transfer of power to the next administration and ensure that public services are delivered without interruption. The committee is chaired by Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea.

Although admitting that elections can be divisive, Go believes that healing would eventually occur and the Filipino people will once again come together.

“In every election there is a winner and a loser. That is inevitable. It is only in this democratic process that the voice of the majority must prevail. There are family members and friends whose relationship has been damaged due to different political belief,” Go said. “I hope over time it will also heal and we will be united again.”

As the country faces many challenges, he urged people to stop fighting over politics and start working together. “If we are united and move together towards a better goal for our country, there is no problem that we cannot overcome.”

He reassured Filipinos that he would continue to serve with compassion whenever they need him.

Go said the incoming administration would inherit an economy that is determined to achieve recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. On May 12, the Philippines’ gross domestic product was reported to have grown by 8.3 percent in the first quarter of the year, exceeding forecasts and expectations.