In the Philippines, there is a big problem called political dynasties. This happens when one family controls many government positions at the same time, like a parent being mayor while their child is governor, or siblings running for office together. Many people say this is unfair because it gives too much power to just one family and makes it harder for others to serve the people.
On Tuesday, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) said that if there will be a new law against political dynasties, it should stop relatives up to the second degree of consanguinity from running for office.
👉 This means not just brothers and sisters, but also grandparents, grandchildren, uncles, aunts, nieces, and nephews of someone already in power should not be allowed to run while their family member is in office.
Comelec Chairman George Erwin Garcia explained during a Senate hearing that this is the “most practical and fair way” to give chances to other Filipinos who want to be leaders.
Right now, the 1987 Constitution already says political dynasties are not allowed, but there is no specific law yet to make this rule work. That is why families still pass power to each other.
There are already small steps:
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The Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Reform Law stops youth leaders from running if they are within the second degree of relation to elected officials. In 2023, this rule prevented at least 1,000 candidates from running.
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The Bangsamoro Election Code also has its own ban on dynasties.
Garcia added that if a law is passed, it should also clearly say that those who break the rule will be guilty of an election offense. He also suggested that both voters and the Comelec should be able to cancel the candidacy of anyone trying to cheat the system.
However, not everyone agrees on how far the law should go. Christian Monsod, one of the writers of the 1987 Constitution, said the ban should cover relatives up to the third degree instead of just second.
He reminded lawmakers that when the Constitution was made, they trusted Congress to protect democracy and stop dynasties from controlling the country. Now, he said, Congress must finally show the courage to pass the law.
✨ In short: The fight is on between families wanting to keep power and those pushing for fair rules. The big question is — will Congress finally stop political dynasties, or will powerful families still dominate government?
