Twelve years ago, we published and presented the findings of our study on the issues and challenges of bureaucratic reform in the Philippines to a group of legislators, local executives, academics and journalists. In that study, we described the numerous overlaps, duplication, and unclear lines of authority in much of the government bureaucracy, which have resulted not only in confusion but also in great difficulty in transacting business with various government agencies.
I am sure our President-elect Duterte is aware of the bureaucratic dysfunctionality in the conduct of business and delivery of basic services in the strategic institutions of our govt. Such unsolicited advice cannot be ignored by a transformational leader who has shown at this initial stage the political will to exert the needed drastic reforms and revolutionary changes. Unfortunately, these analyses and policy prescriptions have been discussed, shelved and revived in the corridors of power for past decades to die a natural death. Hoping this time, such will not be the case in the newly elected administration.
It is a complicated matter. Clarita Carlos should suggest a specific, definitive approach. An independent body perhaps that would advise the President how to do it?