Sen. Padilla files RBH 9 to curb political dynasties

Sen. Robinhood Padilla is pushing for constitutional amendments to curb political dynasties in the Philippines.

Padilla, who heads the Senate panel on constitutional amendments, filed Resolution of Both Houses (RBH) No. 9 on Wednesday evening, aiming to amend Section 26 of Article II in the Constitution by removing the clause 'as may be defined by law'.

The senator argues that term limits have not been effective and seeks immediate restrictions rather than waiting for enabling legislation from Congress.

RBH 9 outlines specific prohibitions including relatives of political figures and incumbent local officials running for or holding certain elective positions within their jurisdictions, as well as relatives of the President, Vice President, Senators, or Party List Representatives running for national elective positions in the same city or province where they are domiciled.

The resolution also prohibits candidacy in the same election of related persons within the fourth degree of consanguinity or affinity to any elective position.