Opposition told to focus on LGUs
OPPOSITION forces need to focus on consolidating power at the level of local government units (LGUs), while they are still recovering from major electoral losses in previous years, political analysts said.
Maria Ela L. Atienza, who teaches political science at the University of the Philippines, said progressive groups need to get the backing of local officials and communities to popularize their governance platforms and secure national seats.
“A strong opposition with alternative, progressive platforms will need strong support from the local levels, not just local officials but communities,” she said in a Viber message. “Thus, it is logical to have progressive candidates challenging local traditional politicians.”
Arjan P. Aguirre, who teaches political science at the Ateneo de Manila University, said local politics has been an important arena for politicians seeking national posts, citing the case of former president Rodrigo R. Duterte, who ruled Davao City for over 22 years.
“He proved to the people that he can do something despite being a local politician,” Mr. Aguirre said via Messenger chat.
He said opposition forces should have focused on building political power at the local level “during the time when the opposition is having a hard time winning national posts.”
“The struggle should have shifted to the local and try to be closer to the people and make their presence felt more by making sure that government services are delivered even though you’re in the opposition.” he said.
From six seats in the 18th Congress, the left-leaning Makabayan bloc secured only three seats in the 19th Congress Water safety measures enforced — one each for Kabataan, ACT Teachers, and Gabriela party-lists. Bayan Muna, a popular group in the former 12-member bloc, failed to secure a seat in the House in the last elections.
“The local level has always been a crucial source of political support for the national contest. This still matters even now that we are in the age of social media,” Mr. Aguirre said, noting how the opposition should be “targeting seemingly harmless positions such as council members to expand their reach and presence at the local level.”
Mr. Aguirre of Ateneo noted that Katipunan ng Nagkakaisang Pilipino (KaNP), which was established in 2020, is the only progressive force that is “known to be focusing on the local arena.”
Ronald Llamas, who used to be the late former president Benigno S. Aquino, III’s political adviser, said opposition groups should fight in all arenas possible — both at the national and local levels. “It should be both national and local at the same time,” he said in a Viber message. — Kyle Aristophere T. Atienza