Expert warns of 'national reset' risks

Expert Warns 'National Reset' Risks Failure Without Clear Vision

As the Philippines grapples with systemic corruption and calls for reform, an international law expert has sounded a warning about the proposed national reset. Dr. Melissa Loja, an expert in international law and governance, believes that any transition government must have a clear strategic vision to succeed.

In a recent interview with The Manila Times, former Defense Secretary and National Security Adviser Norberto Gonzales called for a national reset through a transition government to end systemic corruption and restore public trust. This proposed transition period would coincide with constitutional reforms ahead of the 2028 elections.

However, Loja cautions that any transition without a clear vision risks reverting to a culture of favoritism and personal connections, rather than meritocracy. She notes that such a move may only repeat the failures of the revolutionary government installed after the 1986 EDSA People Power uprising.

The Need for Clarity in Vision

Loja questions Gonzales' assumption that a change in personalities and public discernment alone could address structural corruption. Instead, she emphasizes that any transition must clarify the society it aims to create and the institutions that will guide it.

The current discourse lacks clarity on the type of transition being considered — constitutional or extra-constitutional — and who truly mandates it, Loja said. She references the succession process that brought former president Rodrigo Duterte to power.

Technocratic Interventions Require a Clear Vision

Loja also warns that even technocratic interventions aimed at stabilizing the economy need a guiding vision; otherwise, the structural predilection to corruption remains.

The current opposition forces united against corruption currently lack a cohesive strategy for systemic reform, Loja emphasized. They are united in opposition but not in design. Without a roadmap, a transition government could simply replicate existing structural flaws.

Conclusion A Clear Vision is Crucial

In conclusion, Dr. Melissa Loja's warning highlights the importance of a clear strategic vision for any transition government to succeed. The Philippines must learn from past failures and prioritize meritocracy over favoritism if it hopes to create meaningful change.

Keywords National reset, transition government, corruption, governance, meritocracy, technocratic interventions, reform, opposition forces

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

Enjoy the little things in life. For one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.