Amid growing public anger against corruption, reform advocates see a narrow but important window of opportunity to advance the Anti-Dynasty Bill. The bill has been long pending, but the current political climate has reopened the discourse on whether a law that would limit the power of a few families in government can be passed by Congress.
Advocacy coordinators explain that the mandate of the 1987 Constitution is clear: the law is needed to prevent political dynasties. According to them, it is not enough to rely solely on the voice of the vote when choices are limited and political families control the machinery and funds of government. Without clear boundaries, equal access to public service remains theoretical.
Some local officials openly supported the proposal, emphasizing that the real enemy is concentration of power. In many places, challenging a powerful family is not only a challenge to influence but sometimes a threat to safety. For this reason, it has been insisted that equal opportunity should be given to qualified candidates, not just those with well-known surnames.
Furthermore, studies have confirmed the link between poverty and slow development in areas dominated by dynasties. The most effective measures, experts say, are those that prohibit simultaneous or consecutive tenures of relatives up to the fourth degree of relationship—a provision often opposed in the lower house.
Ultimately, success depends on the strength of the content of the law and the courage of legislators to close loopholes that could be abused. The goal: a strong and clear Anti-Dynasty Law before the 2028 national elections, to ensure that democracy does not revolve around a few names, but is open to all who are willing to serve.