MANILA, Philippines — Political dynasties have long dominated Philippine politics, but the issue has once again come under public scrutiny amid anti-corruption protests and investigations into scam infrastructure projects.
Congress itself is largely made up of politicians from entrenched families, many of whom have held power for generations and continue to do so today. While the Constitution outlaws political dynasties, the lack of a law defining them has kept the ban unenforceable.
It has been nearly three decades since the 1987 Constitution was chartered. Despite efforts by some minority lawmakers in past Congresses to pass an anti-political dynasty bill, none have even passed second reading. The proposed measures were simply left to gather dust at the committee level.