PhilStarGlobal-Feb 13
Thirty-one business groups and civil society organizations are calling for a genuine law against political dynasties, with tougher safeguards to fight corruption. In a joint statement yesterday, the groups said that House Bill 6771 falls short of what can be considered a genuine law to stamp out political dynasties. HB 6771 was filed by Speaker Faustino Dy III and President Marcos’ son, Ilocos Norte Rep. Sandro Marcos. “In reality, HB 6771 is a pro-dynasty measure,” the groups said, noting that the proposed legislation permits succession, switching, substitution and rotation among relatives, in effect allowing the preservation of monopoly over political power. “Their influence extends far beyond government: many dynasties also dominate local economies through franchises, personal business and the favored granting of permits, tightening their grip on both political and economic life,” the groups said. For the country to have a truly effective Anti-Political Dynasty Law, the groups said the proposed legislation should include clear and enforceable provisions. The group’s proposed provisions include prohibiting relatives within the fourth civil degree of consanguinity or affinity from running simultaneously or consecutively holding elective office to uphold the “one local, one national” representation principle. If no relative is serving or seeking office at the national level, the groups said up to two relatives may hold or seek local elective positions, as long as there is no overlap in their respective jurisdictions. Should Congress fail to approve a genuine Anti-Dynasty Law, the groups urged the public to exercise its constitutional right to enact legislation through a People’s Initiative. Read more at: https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2026/02/13/2507644/biz-civil-society-groups-want-tough-dynasty-law
