House launches nationwide consultations on Anti-Political Dynasty bill

Carmona, Cavite — The House of Representatives has begun nationwide consultations on a proposed Anti-Political Dynasty law, signaling a renewed push to pass legislation that would implement a long-standing constitutional provision.

Speaker Faustino “Bojie” G. Dy III said the consultations aim to gather public input before committee deliberations resume on several pending measures seeking to regulate political dynasties.

In a video message released Thursday, Dy said the chamber wants discussions on the measure to be “open and sincere,” noting that the issue has generated varying opinions across the country.

The first consultation was held at the Carsigma Gym in Carmona City and was led by Lanao del Sur Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong, chairperson of the House Committee on Electoral Reforms and Suffrage.

Among the proposals discussed was House Bill No. 6771, authored by Dy and House Majority Leader Ferdinand Alexander “Sandro” A. Marcos. The bill seeks to define prohibited family relationships and set limits on relatives simultaneously holding elective positions.

The 1987 Constitution provides that the State shall prohibit political dynasties “as may be defined by law,” but Congress has yet to pass an enabling measure nearly four decades later.

Previous attempts to enact an anti-political dynasty law have stalled in Congress, with critics often citing strong resistance from lawmakers who themselves come from political families.

Political dynasties remain prevalent in many parts of the country. Various academic studies over the years have shown that a significant number of governors, mayors, and legislators belong to established political clans.

Dy said the consultations are intended to hear from citizens across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao — including both supporters and critics of the proposal.

He emphasized that the House is serious about advancing the measure but maintained that broader public participation is necessary before finalizing any version of the bill.

Lawmakers are expected to resume committee deliberations after the series of consultations.

Additional consultation sessions are scheduled in the coming weeks as the chamber seeks to build consensus on one of the country’s most debated political reforms.