Hontiveros refiles bill vs political dynasties

Senator Risa Hontiveros refiled Senate Bill No. 1548, or the Kontra Dinastiya Act, which aims to prohibit political dynasties from holding elective office.

The bill defines political dynasties as individuals related within the fourth degree of consanguinity or affinity who run simultaneously for national, local, or party-list positions.

It also seeks to prevent relatives from immediately succeeding incumbent officials.

The proposed legislation empowers the public to file complaints before the Commission on Elections (Comelec), which can also motu proprio disqualify dynasty members.

Hontiveros highlighted that despite a constitutional ban since 1987, the lack of an enabling law has allowed political dynasties to consolidate power, contributing to corruption and systemic poverty.