THE Philippines is facing a deepening crisis of governance, legitimacy, and public trust, according to former Defense Secretary and National Security Adviser Norberto B. Gonzales.
To address these issues, Gonzales has proposed the creation of a temporary “Transition Government.”
In a Facebook post, he explained that the proposal aims to address systemic failures and reform the country’s political and economic institutions.
He, however, clarified that this is not a call for a forceful takeover or authoritarian rule, but rather a peaceful, short-term reorganization of leadership.
Supporting Gonzales’ proposal, lawyer Proculo Sarmen, a former commissioner of the National Labor Relations Commission, expressed his endorsement.
“A powerful and necessary reflection, Bernard. Indeed, what Sec. Norberto Gonzales envisions is not a shortcut to power but a bold invitation to rebuild our democratic foundations — anchored in integrity, participation, and the genuine welfare of the people. Inaction in the face of decay is complicity,” Sarmen said.
Sarmen, a native of Cagayan, added, “A just and time-bound transition may be the painful yet hopeful reset our nation needs.”
“Salamat sa panawagang makabayan at makatao,” he said.
Gonzales emphasized that the goal is to restore integrity to electoral processes, stabilize the economy, improve access to basic services, defend national sovereignty, and review the Constitution to better serve the Filipino people.
The proposal highlights widespread concerns about the current state of Philippine democracy — where elections are often influenced by political dynasties and wealth, laws are unevenly enforced, and public trust in institutions continues to erode.
He pointed the need for a national reset to confront persistent issues such as poverty, youth emigration, and widespread disillusionment with the government.
The envisioned transition government would be guided by the principles of transparency, participation, accountability, and temporariness.
Gonzales reiterated that the aim is to rebuild trust and democratic processes — not to establish a dictatorship.
His proposal has sparked debate among political analysts, civil society groups, and the general public, with many now asking whether the country has the courage to pursue such bold reforms.
