Senator Risa Hontiveros has filed a measure seeking to prohibit political dynasties in the Philippines. She defines a political dynasty as the concentration, consolidation, or perpetuation of public office and political power by spouses or relatives across national or local elective positions. Citing studies, the senator warned that dynastic dominance “fosters environments where corruption is more likely to flourish, as entrenched families can divert public resources, weaken oversight and engage in self-serving policies without fear or accountability.” In the bill’s explanatory note, Hontiveros added: “Political dynasties weaken democratic institutions and produce poorer governance outcomes, particularly when ‘fat dynasties’ allow multiple family members to simultaneously hold elective offices within the same jurisdiction.” The proposed measure seeks to restore fairness in elections, strengthen public institutions, and ensure that government leadership is determined by merit, integrity, and a genuine mandate from the people, rather than inherited political machinery. Under the bill, any violation would be considered an election offense and subject to penalties in accordance with the Omnibus Election Code. Hontiveros is among at least four senators in the 20th Congress who have filed similar bills aiming to prohibit political dynasties in the Philippines.
