A University of the Philippines College of Law official told the House that the Constitution’s ban on political dynasties applies not only to elective positions but also to appointive posts, citing the framers’ intent to prevent the concentration of power within families.
UP professor Lee Edson Yarcia said records of the 1986 Constitutional Commission debates show the prohibition was meant to be categorical, regardless of how officials assume office.
Lawmakers raised historical examples, including the multiple government positions held by Imelda Marcos during the Marcos Sr. regime, to stress the dangers of dynastic control.
House Speaker Faustino Dy III vowed to pass an enabling anti-political dynasty law during the 20th Congress, with the measure also listed as a priority by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Party-list lawmakers.
Committee leaders said the proposed law seeks to ensure equal access, fair competition, and accountability in public service, amid data showing dynastic control of elected posts rose from 19 percent in 1988 to 29 percent in 2019.
Source: PhilNews24 | January 28, 2026
