Photo courtesy of House of Representatives of the Philippines/Facebook.
The House of Representatives will begin discussions on pending anti-political dynasty measures on Tuesday, January 27, Lanao del Sur Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong announced on Monday.
Adiong, who chairs the House Committee on Suffrage and Electoral Reforms, said 20 bills are under consideration, including a proposal from Marikina Rep. Miro Quimbo, which will be referred to the committee during the resumption of session.
The lawmaker emphasized the panel’s commitment to crafting legislation that not only addresses political dynasties effectively but also complies with the 1987 Constitution. “As Chairperson, I am fully committed to ensuring that the committee’s deliberations produce a version of the Anti-Political Dynasty Bill that is effective, legally sound, and constitutionally compliant,” Adiong said.
He added that the committee will consult with veteran jurists, constitutional experts, and civil society representatives to create a measure that promotes broader political participation, meritocracy, and a stronger democracy.
For the initial hearing, former Supreme Court Chief Justices Reynato Puno and Artemio Panganiban, former Associate Justices Antonio Carpio and Adolfo Azcuña, Commission on Elections Chair George Garcia, and other legal experts have been invited to provide guidance. Representatives from the Philippine Bar Association, Integrated Bar of the Philippines, law schools, and civil society groups are also expected to participate.
Several lawmakers, including Makabayan bloc members and Minority representatives like Leila de Lima, previously filed similar measures. Even Bukidnon 2nd District Rep. Jonathan Keith Flores, despite being part of a political family, has backed a proposal defining and banning political dynasties.
The push gained further momentum after House Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III confirmed the House would prioritize anti-political dynasty measures. In December, Dy and Majority Leader Ferdinand Alexander Marcos filed House Bill No. 6771, defining political dynasties as the concentration of elective power among relatives up to the fourth civil degree, including spouses, parents, children, and siblings, whether legitimate or illegitimate.
