Washington open to transition gov’t in RP

More subtle signs being manifested by the United States government amid the political crisis in the country, point to its lessening of support for the Arroyo administration.

The US government, through its embassy in Manila yesterday said it is open to the idea of a transition government in the Philippines provided this is done within the framework of the Constitution.

Senior American diplomat Joseph Mussomeli, outgoing US Embassy Charge d'Affaires, advised Filipinos to adhere to the rule of law and resolve the political turmoil within the bounds of the Constitution.

“If there is to be one (transition government) so there would be long-term benefit of the Filipino people, this should be done within the Constitution. No quick fixes,” Mussomeli said in an impromptu interview yesterday during the completion ceremony of the 3rd Congressional Internship Program for Young Muslim Leaders in Makati City.

The statement comes two days after groups of opposition forces came together broaching the idea of establishing a transition government in the event President Arroyo steps out of Malacañang, along with the proposal of holding honest elections after a complete overhaul of the Comelec and other institutions.

The opposition groups, in a primer, said transition governments had been established in other countries prior to ushering in a new government.

At the same time, Mussomeli maintained that the US support is for institutions and democratic processes and not to individual persons.

Again, Mussomeli failed to give a categorical statement of support for President Arroyo, who is being asked to resign over allegations of vote fraud.

“We have very close relations with the President and this administration. We are still working together on a broad way of issues from counter-terrorism to fighting corruption and that will continue,” he said.

Following President Arroyo's admission that she was the voice behind the controversial wiretapped conversation, it has been noted that the US has been distancing itself from the Arroyo government.

This was contrary to the embassy's previous expression of “unequivocal” support to the President, who is involved in a vote fraud scandal during the May 2004 polls.

The American charge also said Washington will continue to oppose actions made beyond the Constitution such as a military coup, the imposition of martial law, and people power in the streets.

“There is always a reflex toward making a quick fix. None of those things are good for the Philippines in the long run,” he said.

“But what is clear is that a country, a sophisticated political quality cannot really develop unless things are done by the procedures that are in the Constitution and law,” he added.

He stressed it is important for the institutions in the Philippines to work rather than take constitutional shortcuts.

“It's sort of like you spoil your children because it is easier than doing things that are hard. And if that means is going to be messy, it's going to be painful. That's okay in the short-run because in the long run it proves that Philippine democracy can survive and can be effective,” Mussomeli, said.

The envoy also said that Washington will not interfere in the domestic problems of the Philippines.

“It is for the Filipino people to resolve among themselves,” he said.

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