Manila: The House of Representatives on Wednesday approved on the third and final reading a long-delayed measure seeking to ban political dynasties, marking one of the most consequential electoral reform bills advanced by the chamber in recent years.
According to Philippines News Agency, voting 267-20 with seven abstentions, lawmakers passed House Bill (HB) No. 8389, or the proposed Anti-Political Dynasty Act, which prohibits spouses and relatives within the second degree of consanguinity or affinity from simultaneously holding or seeking elective posts within the same political jurisdiction.
The bill was principally authored by Speaker Faustino 'Bojie' Dy III and House Majority Leader Ferdinand Alexander 'Sandro' Marcos, and carried the support of 159 co-authors. The proposed measure seeks to implement Section 26, Article II of the 1987 Constitution, which mandates that the State guarantee equal access to opportunities for public service and prohibits political dynasties 'as may be defined by law.'
Under the bill, prohibited dynastic arrangements would cover national and local elective positions, including the presidency, vice presidency, Senate, House of Representatives, provincial governments, cities, and municipalities. Candidates would also be required to submit sworn declarations to the Commission on Elections stating that their candidacy would not result in a prohibited political dynasty relationship.
The measure also provides penalties for concealment, submission of falsified documents, coercion, and other acts intended to circumvent the proposed prohibition. In a statement, Marcos said the House approval of the measure showed Congress was finally prepared to confront one of the country's most deeply entrenched political issues.
'This measure recognizes a reality in Philippine politics while also responding to a constitutional mandate that has remained pending for decades. The objective is to promote broader political participation and strengthen public trust in our democratic institutions,' the Majority Leader said.
'We want to encourage a political environment where leadership is determined not only by familiarity or family ties, but also by merit, competence and the confidence of the Filipino people,' he added. Marcos said the measure aimed to restore public confidence in elections and governance by opening the political system to more Filipinos.
'A stronger democracy requires broader participation. We want more Filipinos, especially young and capable leaders from ordinary backgrounds, to believe they have a real chance to serve their communities and their country,' he said. Meanwhile, Dy said the House had taken an important step toward fulfilling one of the unfinished promises of the Constitution.
'This vote is bigger than any political party, family or administration. It is about giving future generations a more open and competitive democracy where public service is accessible to all who are willing and qualified to serve,' the House chief said in a separate statement.
'The House has done its part. We hope this reform continues to move forward so that a constitutional promise made nearly 40 years ago can finally become a reality for the Filipino people.' The bill now goes to the Senate for consideration.
