The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is urging Congress to pass an anti-political dynasty law by the end of 2026 to give the poll body enough time to clarify its provisions and prepare for implementation ahead of the 2028 elections.
Comelec Chairperson George Garcia expressed support for the proposed measure during the Kapihan sa Manila Bay forum, saying a law passed later could make implementation more difficult.
“Si Comelec sumusuporta sa isang batas na magpapatupad ng prohibisyon on political dynasty. Ang pinakausap namin ay sana huwag naman lalampas ng katapusan ng taon sa pangkat napakahirap mag-implement,” Garcia said.
Garcia said the Comelec wants the law to clearly define its coverage, including whether the prohibition would apply to national or local elective positions, appointed officials and party-list groups.
He also said defining the prohibited relationships would need to be addressed, noting that a second-degree relationship could be easier to identify because cases involving illegitimate relationships may present complications.
The filing of certificates of candidacy for the 2028 national and local elections is scheduled for September 20 to 26, 2027.
The call comes after the Supreme Court ruled in August that Congress has a constitutional duty to enact a law prohibiting political dynasties. The Court said Congress’ failure to act for 39 years constituted grave abuse of discretion and directed lawmakers to enact an appropriate law at the earliest opportunity.
The Supreme Court also clarified that Congress retains discretion in defining political dynasties and determining the scope of the prohibition, while Comelec cannot impose candidate disqualifications based solely on political-dynasty relationships without a law defining the prohibition.
In June, the House of Representatives passed on third and final reading a bill seeking to prohibit relatives within the second degree of consanguinity or affinity from running for or holding office within the same constituency or jurisdiction.
