Mayor Duterte sharing his insights to the Ateneo studentry at Finster Auditorium. Photo by Mark Louie Balladares

Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte gave a talk in front of the students and the faculty of Ateneo de Davao University in a program last Monday, January 19, at the Finster Auditorium.

The program, entitled “Pakigpulong kay Digong” was organized by Samahan ng Mag-aaral ng Agham Pampulitika ng Ateneo (SAMAPULA) in coordination with Political Science and History Department, University Community and Engagement Council (UCEAC), and Atenews.

In the program, Duterte talked about the ills of the country and the ways to solve the security problem in Mindanao.

Among the ills of the country that he identified was corruption in the government.

“This has to stop. The insanity of corruption must stop,” he boldly said.

In solving the security problem in Mindanao, specifically the conflict with Muslim groups, Duterte suggested that Philippine government’s unitary form must be replaced.

“The only acceptable solution is federalism,” the mayor said.

Unlike the unitary form of government which is marked by high degree of centralization or control of national government, the federal form of government would give an expanded autonomy to Muslims and local governments.

Duterte also reiterated that he is not interested to run for presidency.

“I am not interested in the presidency because I don’t have money,” he announced.