Manila: The Supreme Court (SC) has mandated Congress to fulfill its constitutional obligation to enact legislation prohibiting political dynasties "at the earliest opportunity." This directive follows a unanimous decision by the high tribunal, recognizing that the absence of such a law for 39 years represents a grave abuse of discretion.

According to Philippines News Agency, the SC's en banc issued this order after granting the consolidated petitions for certiorari and mandamus. These petitions challenged Congress' prolonged inaction on passing a law that defines and prohibits political dynasties. The Court emphasized that despite being a co-equal branch of government, Congress' failure to legislate in this area is an exceptional case, warranting a mandamus order to compel compliance with the Constitution.

The SC highlighted that Article II, Section 26 of the Constitution is not an aspirational statement but a mandatory directive. This section mandates the State to ensure equal access to public service and to prohibit political dynasties, as defined by law. The Court clarified that the phrase "as may be defined by law" empowers Congress to define political dynasties and determine the extent of the prohibition, rather than providing an option to legislate.

The Supreme Court acknowledged the numerous anti-political dynasty bills that have been filed but remain unacted upon since the 1987 Constitution's ratification. It also took note of studies linking the prevalence of political dynasties to socioeconomic conditions in the country. Despite various changes in Congress' composition over the years, a comprehensive anti-political dynasty law has not been passed, suggesting possible disinterest, avoidance for convenience, or self-serving motives.

While the Constitution does not prescribe a specific deadline for enacting such a law, the SC asserted that Congress cannot indefinitely delay fulfilling its constitutional duty. The legislative body, comprising the Senate and the House of Representatives, is now tasked with addressing this long-standing issue with urgency.