If Congress won't end dynasties, the people must

Once again, a bill seeking to enforce the constitutional prohibition on political dynasties has been filed in the House of Representatives. And once again, it stands little chance of surviving the very halls where such dynasties have entrenched themselves for decades. Likely, it will be buried, ignored, or quietly killed with deliberate inaction.

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Article II, Section 26 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution is crystal clear: “The State shall guarantee equal access to opportunities for public service, and prohibit political dynasties as may be defined by law.” But here lies the catch—as may be defined by law. For nearly four decades, Congress has refused to define what the Constitution requires. Why? Because many of its members are part of the very problem the law seeks to solve.

The refusal to pass an anti-dynasty law is an act of self-preservation. Dynastic politicians, cloaked in campaign promises and familiar surnames, have mastered the art of political survival—often at the expense of real progress, inclusive governance, and democratic renewal. They flood communities with patronage, and romanticize service while building empires. They silence dissent, co-opt the youth, and buy loyalty with cash aid and convenience. They thrive because they are well-entrenched, wealthy, and ruthless.