Kabataan Partylist Rep. Raoul Manuel pushed for the Anti-Political Dynasty Bill on Wednesday, October 2.
According to the congressman, the bill was filed in the first week of their office in 2022 but has been stuck in limbo since. In light of the certificate of candidacy (COC) filing for the 2025 midterm elections, he dared authorities to include the bill in its legislative priorities.
The bill has been stalled since the early 2000s, with the Bayan Muna Partylist first filing it in 2001 until the mid-2010s. In 2016, the Makabayan Coalition refiled the bill. Now, the Kabataan Partylist’s refiled version remains pending as well.
“Kabataan Partylist filed the Anti-Political Dynasty Bill in its 1st week in office. Pero pinatulog,” Manuel said.
“Dapat isalang na ito when session resumes in (November). Mag-inhibit ang lahat ng kabilang sa political dynasty. Palakihin ‘wag pakitirin, ang puwang para sa taumbayan sa pamamahala,” he added.
Moreover, the lawmaker stressed the importance of diversity in government candidates, giving others a chance to lead. He also mentioned the importance of expanding opportunities for those in the government and removing restrictions on those who can hold office.
Manuel is seeking to discuss the bill submitted before Congress before its final session.
Meanwhile, Senate President Chiz Escudero assured that he would not intervene in the passage of a law against political dynasties in the country. Escudero said that he will not block its passing, as he is also a product of that.
The act seeks to prohibit the establishment of political dynasties in the country. The most recent filing was authored by Senator Robinhood Padilla. It has been pending with the Committee on Electoral Reforms and People’s Participation since July 30 this year.
