The case against political dynasties
I write this letter as a citizen of the Republic of the Philippines and an advocate for the implementation of the Philippine Constitution. As a priest, I do not wish to play partisan politics, and my desire is to make public service open to all our citizens capable of doing so as envisioned by our Constitution.
Article II, Section 26 of the Constitution states that “The State shall guarantee equal access to opportunities for public service and prohibit political dynasties as may be defined by law.”
Ever since the Constitution was enacted, there has been no enabling legislation to enforce this provision. Why?
Political dynasties have been a constant feature of our political history. Some undesirable outcomes have ensued like the weakening of competition in elections such that competent and qualified citizens do not assume office, political patronage, absence of a merit-based framework of leadership, concentration and entrenchment of political power and wealth in political families, and inequality in access to public service and leadership.
I suggest that lawmakers initiate the move to implement the anti-dynasty provision of the Constitution.
To begin, there must be a clear definition of a political dynasty. It can refer to the concentration, succession, or simultaneous holding of elective public office by persons related within the second degree of consanguinity or affinity.
What the law must prohibit is the simultaneous candidacy or holding of office by relatives within the prohibited degree, in the same or overlapping jurisdictions. This means that spouses, fathers and sons, mothers and daughters, brothers and sisters, and in-laws should be prohibited from simultaneously running for office or simultaneously holding office within the same jurisdiction (Senate, House of Representatives, provincial, municipal, or city government).
Successive candidacies by a relative of an incumbent for the same position or within the same national or local jurisdiction in the next election should also be prohibited.
It is not about exclusion but inclusion. It is about leveling the playing field so that competent and highly motivated Filipino citizens can also serve in public office.
Fr. Cecilio L. Magsino,
cesmagsino@gmail.com
