From the 18th to the 22nd of November, the Institute of Federalism welcomed again a delegation from the Philippines. This year, five provincial governors, along with delegates from the Development Academy of the Philippines and the League of Provinces of the Philippines, were introduced to the Swiss federal system and its practical functioning.

During their Study Tour organised by the Institute, the attendees were made aware of the existence and the role of cantons and communes, as well as the relations between the Swiss “levels of State”. The visits and trips in the cantons of Fribourg, Geneva and Jura were enhanced by presentations and talks with several cantons’ officials. Moreover, the Philippine Governors went to Moutier in order to understand the issues related to the so-called “Jura Question”, and also in Bern, to figure out the role of the Federal institutions. They have also met the Mayor of Fribourg, who gave an overview of the city, before offering the “Vin d’honneur” to the Manilla guests, accompanied by the Philippine Ambassador to the Swiss Confederation and his spouse.

All the topics covered during the Study Tour, as well as the proposed activities, generated a positive response among the participants, who undoubtedly left Switzerland with many arguments in favour of a federal state for the Philippines, an idea supported by President Duterte.