Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan has renewed his push for an anti-political dynasty law, saying ending entrenched political clans would help curb corruption and reduce poverty.
Speaking at a recent Senate hearing on anti-political dynasty bills, Pangilinan said communities dominated by “fat dynasties”—families holding multiple government posts at the same time—tend to have higher poverty levels.
“Kung walang dynasty, walang mahirap,” he said, adding that the same applies to corruption: “Kung walang dynasty, walang korap.”
The senator cited a December Pulse Asia survey showing that more than half of Filipinos believe an anti-dynasty law can address systemic corruption, stressing that amid massive flood control corruption issues, now is the “perfect timing” to pass the measure.
Pangilinan said dismantling dynasties would break the concentration of power and wealth, level the political playing field, and allow new and honest leaders to enter public service.
The senator filed Senate Bill No. 285, which seeks to ban spouses and relatives up to the second degree from running for or holding public office simultaneously or consecutively, in line with the 1987 Constitution’s mandate against political dynasties.IMT
