Social Democracy

Social Democracy envisions a society that cares equally for all its members (“lipunang pantay ang paglingap sa lahat”). It is guided by the fundamental values of Freedom, Equality and Solidarity.

Under the Philippine context, freedom would mean the freedom to realize one’s human potentials and the enjoyment of political, civil and cultural liberties customary to authentic democracy. Freedom basically means freedom from poverty and freedom from arbitrary restraints whether imposed upon by the state or non-state entities. To realize freedom on personal and societal level, all citizens must have meaningful education, health care and access to resources.

Civil liberties and the basic freedoms will be meaningless if they are not anchored on equality.

Equality of social power means equal access to housing, education, healthcare, social services, employment and of course equal standard of living for all.

Under the Philippine cultural tradition, solidarity means “love for country”. Love for country has the same essence everywhere. It means mutual responsibility to carry the burdens of society. It exhibits cooperation and oneness of social and political vision as people put upon their shoulders the obligation to be responsible for one another and the nation that they are building.

The two pillars of society that cares equally for all are: a) a strong state that will effectively promote the common good and move the nation towards national solidarity; and b) a patriotic citizenry willing to carry out the great task of building the Philippine society on the spirit of freedom, equality and solidarity. Among its fundamental policies are:

1. Freedom

• Freedom to participate in political, social and cultural processes of the society.• Freedom from fear and criminality through conscientious internal and external human security reforms• Freedom from poverty and deprivation through universal social benefits.• Freedom from exploitation and abuse in the political, social and cultural systems.

2. Equality

• Equal opportunities to realize human potential through equal access to quality education, healthcare and productive resources.• Equal access to political participation through the dismantling of the political dynasties and reforms in the electoral process and the political party systems.• Equal access to justice and social services• Equal space for the profession and expression of different religious faiths and cultural beliefs.

3. Solidarity

• Recognition of the Bangsa Moro nation, the indigenous people and other nationalities in the Philippine state.• Equitable distribution of burden and responsibility in building the nation through progressive system of taxation and other programs toward the said end.• Continuing citizenship education and programs toward the strengthening the moral fiber of the citizenry.• Renewal and strengthening of the state through the different reform programs on governance.