A bill labeled as an “anti-political dynasty” measure is facing criticism for potentially entrenching political families instead of curbing them.
Rep. Percival Cendaña argued that versions filed by House Speaker Faustino Dy III and Rep. Sandro Marcos legitimize dynasties by defining which relatives can hold office, rather than restricting their power.
The proposals disqualify close relatives from simultaneously holding office but allow succession, rotation, and running in different levels of government, strategies often used to retain control.
Cendaña warned that such half-measures would reinforce patronage politics and corruption, calling for lawmakers to act against their own interests.
Advocacy groups note that despite the 1987 Constitution’s mandate to prohibit dynasties, no comprehensive law exists, leaving political families largely unchecked.
Source: PhilNews24 | December 29, 2025
