Abstract
Contesting issues of oligarchy and elitism has been an issue coming from the popular opinion of the masses that wish to eradicate a seemingly existing political approach in the aid of addressing the people’s common needs. In the Philippines, it is evident for the last five years where a lot of populist leaders and leadership types are on the rise. This paper specifically provides 1) an idea of bridging populist demands to national governance, 2) a tangible and considerable report for Commission on Elections (COMELEC) perusal and aspiring political candidates (most especially in national positions) as bases for their platform construction; and 3) an explored potential of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) resources as a tool in consolidating these perceived gaps. In the discussion, a possibility has been shown with the inclusion of ICT resources to empower local citizens in their participation of sharing their piece to national legislations as well as integrating an ICT strategy to accommodate these various demands. However, there are a lot of realities to be acknowledged like the reasons for “gaps” existence. This paper highlights 1) that populist demands and opinions are possible opportunities for dialogue, consultation, coordination, and collaboration with other public and private institutions and agencies; 2) a need to establish and re-build strategies for ICT inclusion even to the rural communities - a springboard to widen the work of e-governance in the country. It argues that it would empower local governments, regardless of level or form, for ICT development.
Presenters
Kevin John MaddelaStudent, Doctor of Philosophy, De La Salle University, Manila, Philippines
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
Populism, Gaps, Election, Participation
