HRep-Ateneo Project 6th Roundtable Discussion: Government Rightsizing and Peace and Security

The sixth and final roundtable discussion of the HRep-Ateneo Evidence-Based Research Project was held on 12 February 2024 at the House of Representatives. Experts from the government, academe, and the private sector actively engaged in the discussions which centered  on government rightsizing and peace and security

The HRep-Ateneo Evidence-Based Research Project conducts research studies that aim to support the current administration’s 8-point agenda and the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 towards achieving the Filipino aspirations of maginhawa, matatag, at panatag na buhay, or the Ambisyon Natin 2040. The HRep-Ateneo Roundtable Discussion is a limited series where studies from the HRep-Ateneo project are presented. It is envisioned to be a platform for discourse on critical national issues.

Sowing the Seeds for Effective and Sustained Public Sector Rightsizing

Dr. Romulo Miral, Jr., Deputy Secretary General of the Congressional Policy and Budget Research Department (CPBRD) opened the morning session, underscoring the importance of having enabling conditions for effective governance. Dr. Ronald Mendoza of the Ateneo de Manila University and Congressional Research Fellow (CRF) of the HRep-Ateneo Project, presented their study conducted with fellow CRF, Dr. Alex Brillantes.  The study focused on the theme, “Sowing the Seeds for Effective and Sustained Public Sector Rightsizing,” which included a review of past rightsizing initiatives and lessons learned. Among the key recommendations Dr. Mendoza highlighted include building capacity in the civil service; facilitating change management; mainstreaming monitoring and evaluation among agencies; investing in e-governance and digitalization; and implementing strategic and incremental approach in rightsizing efforts.  Dr. Mendoza likewise emphasized the need for continuity in rightsizing endeavors; the importance of celebrating the gains and results that emanate from such initiatives; and the need to foster a culture of learning.

The open discussion, moderated by Hon. Stella Luz Quimbo, brought a constructive dialogue from the House members and panel reactors. The insights flowed with most participants agreeing that it is imperative to develop an overall map on rightsizing that agencies can refer to, particularly on where to start and what should be handled by the local and central government. Streamlining of processes as well as early retirement packages were likewise mentioned as a must before exploring digitalization tools and technology.  

The distinguished session panelists included Asec. Clarito Alejandro Magsino of the Department of Budget and Management, Atty. Arial Ronquillo of the Civil Service Commission, and Usec. Gerald Divinagracia of the Anti-Red Tape Authority.

The session was attended by Hon. Roman Romulo, Hon. Salvador Pleyto, Hon. Jernie Nisay, and Hon. Christopher De Venecia.
 

Probing the Philippine Approach Towards the West Philippine Sea

The afternoon session centered on “Probing the Philippine Approach Towards the West Philippine Sea.” In his opening remarks, Dr. Romulo Miral, Jr., emphasized the importance of overcoming the issues plaguing the West Philippine Sea.  Dr. Robin Garcia and Prof. Herman Kraft, Congressional Research Fellows of the HRep-Ateneo Project, elaborated on ways to decrease encroachment of China, from using more compelling and persuasive rhetoric in dealing with China to diversifying and deepening alliances with other countries.  They also proposed a review of the national defense act as well as the renewal of AFP modernization act. A national center for strategic planning on national security was likewise recommended to facilitate more cohesive and consistent policies on such issues. 

Hon. Stella Quimbo again moderated the open forum for the afternoon session, which was also attended by Hon. Anna Victoria Veloso-Tuazon, Hon. Francisco Benitez, Hon. France Castro, and Hon. Roman Romulo.  Also contributing to the discussion were the distinguished panelists including Prof. Victor Manhit of ADR Institute, Dr. Renato De Castro of De La Salle University, and Usec. Ignacio Madriaga of the Department of National Defense.

The discussion brought to the fore the importance of UNCLOS and educating the Filipino people about it; the need to sanction proof the Philippine economy from China; the urgency of building the country’s armed forces to be able to guarantee archipelagic protection; and the need to recognize China as a threat and a clear and present danger to the country.  The session ended with a message from Hon. Robert Ace Barbers, Member of the Committee on National Defense and Security, urging the committee to support Surigao del Norte as an Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) site. 
 

See more photos from the event here.

Watch the 5th Roundtable Discussion above or on YouTube.

To know more about the project, please visit:

• Ateneo inks partnership on conduct of evidence-based research with House of Representatives

• HRep-Ateneo Project’s Inception Workshop: In March to Meet the Objectives

• House of Representatives and Ateneo research collaboration reaches milestone

• Ateneo holds first round table discussion for Evidence-Based Research Project at the House of Representatives

• HRep-Ateneo Project 2nd Roundtable Discussion: Food Prices and Fiscal Management

• HRep-Ateneo Project 3rd Roundtable Discussion: Primary Health Care and Financial Inclusion

• HRep-Ateneo Project 4th Roundtable Discussion: Education and Research & Development

• HRep-Ateneo Project 5th Roundtable Discussion: Jobs/Connectivity and Blue & Green Economy