The Senate electoral reforms committee approved a compromise version of the long-awaited bill banning political dynasties, prohibiting relatives up to the second degree of consanguinity and affinity from simultaneously holding or succeeding each other in office.
Sen. Risa Hontiveros sponsored Senate Bill 1901, noting that while it is a weaker second-degree ban compared to her original fourth-degree proposal, it represents a historic first step toward implementing the Constitution’s anti-dynasty mandate.
The measure could affect around 30 percent of existing political dynasties nationwide as early as the 2028 elections, covering parents, siblings, spouses, children, and in-laws.
In parallel, the House filed House Bill 7914, authored by Leila de Lima and colleagues, to prohibit legislators from switching political parties, aiming to curb turncoatism and political opportunism.
Lawmakers hope to pass the Senate measure by March, signaling momentum for long-stalled electoral reforms in the Philippines.
Source: PhilNews24 | February 25, 2026
