Senator Sherwin Gatchalian recently called on both chambers of Congress to formulate a timetable for the transition to federalism.

“We need to be clear with the details and not rush the process,” he said.

The senator also touched upon the possible postponement of the 2019 elections, which he said must proceed.

“The democratic functions of our government should not be put on hold for any reason,” Gatchalian affirmed. “The May 2019 elections must go ahead as scheduled.”

Last week, Negros Occidental Governor Alfredo Marañon, Jr., who also pointed out a need to specify a path towards federalism, said in regard to the suggested postponement, “Let’s wait and see.”

Both House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez and Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III earlier revealed the shift to federalism may force the postponement of the 2019 polls./PLL, WDJ