The Makabayan bloc in the House of Representatives has made a decisive move by withdrawing its support from the substitute anti-political dynasty bill currently being advanced by the House leadership. This action underscores their unwavering and non-negotiable stance: they cannot endorse legislation that merely regulates political dynasties instead of outright prohibiting them, as explicitly mandated by the Philippine Constitution.
Constitutional Mandate Ignored
According to the bloc, Article II, Section 26 of the 1987 Constitution does not use the word "regulate" but rather "prohibit." They argue that any enabling law that falls short of a complete prohibition does not constitute genuine reform but instead mocks the Constitution. The Makabayan representatives have declared they refuse to be complicit in such a charade, emphasizing that this bill represents a significant departure from the constitutional command.
Criticism of Marcos Jr.'s Agenda
The compromise bills, according to the bloc, expose what they describe as the sham reform agenda of President Marcos Jr. They assert that he is not genuinely interested in abolishing political dynasties, noting that he himself belongs to a prominent political dynasty and appears to be seeking its perpetuation. This criticism highlights a broader skepticism about the administration's commitment to democratic principles and anti-corruption measures.
Decades of Inaction and Current Violations
In a statement, the bloc pointed out that for nearly four decades, Congress has violated the Constitution through inaction on this issue. Now, they argue, the situation is even worse: lawmakers are attempting to violate it through a law that pretends to comply. They expressed frustration, stating, "We will not be used," and condemned the move as a deliberate effort to maintain the status quo under the guise of reform.
Loopholes and Protection of Powerful Families
The substitute bill, according to the Makabayan bloc, bears the fingerprints of the dynasties themselves, being riddled with loopholes and intentionally designed to preserve the existing power structures. They claim its true purpose is to protect powerful families rather than serve the people, labeling it as a tool for regulated oligarchy masquerading as reform. This critique underscores their view that the bill fails to address the root causes of political inequality and corruption.
Call to Action for Genuine Measures
In response, the Makabayan bloc is calling on their colleagues, civil society organizations, and the Filipino people to reject this substitute bill. Instead, they urge support for House Bill 209 and House Bill 4784, which they describe as genuine and uncompromising anti-dynasty measures. They emphasize that it is time to end the rule of the few and advocate for real democracy, not a system that merely slaps a reform label on a regulated oligarchy.
The statement was jointly issued by ACT Teachers Representative Antonio Tinio, Gabriela Women’s Party Representative Sarah Jane Elago, and Kabataan Representative Atty. Renee Louise Co, highlighting a unified front in their opposition to what they see as a flawed legislative effort.
