MikeLigalig.com

29% of local posts now occupied by 'fat' political dynasties

Ateneo School of Government Dean Ronald Mendoza says political dynasties with members simultaneously occupying more than one elective post have grown by about 1% per election period since 1988

Sofia Tomacruz
September 14, 2019

MANILA, Philippines – Political dynasties now possess 29% of all local elected posts, growing by about 1% or 170 positions per election period since 1988, a study by the Ateneo School of Government (ASoG) showed.

ASoG Dean Ronald Mendoza presented findings from a study looking into political dynasties, term limits, and development which showed an increasing trend in the number of local positions occupied by members of "fat" political dynasties or powerful clans. The study was done along with ASoG research associates Leonardo Jaminola and Jurel Yap.

"Fat dynasties" – families whose members simultaneously hold elective posts – occupied 19% of all local elected positions in 1988. Since then, the number has grown across gubernatorial, vice gubernatorial, congressional, mayoral, vice mayoral, provincial board member, and councilor posts.

Linkback: https://tubagbohol.mikeligalig.com/index.php?topic=90685.0

Why this matters

Mendoza said studies have shown a link between political dynasties and underdevelopment of local areas.

"Research suggests that more fat dynasties weaken checks-and-balances in our democracy, leading to bad governance, and consequently weaker development outcomes," he said.

Mendoza added data showed "fat dynasties" were also more prevalent in poorer provinces in the Philippines where there were poor business climates and low levels of development.

Linkback: https://tubagbohol.mikeligalig.com/index.php?topic=90685.0

"Our proposal for practical political viability of the law is simple: Bawal ang sabay-sabay pero puwede nang payagan ang sunod-sunod (Prohibit family members serving simultaneously in office but allow them to serve in succession)," Mendoza said.

Mendoza said the proposed compromise would help level the electoral playing field for all Filipinos.

"Give a chance to others. Our democracy is not a family business," he said.

Lawmakers have discussed proposed anti-dynasty measures for years but so far anti-dynasty provisions have only made it to Republic Act No. 10742 or the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Reform Act. With majority of Congress members belonging to powerful clans, lawmakers have been hesitant to pass such a law despite a constitutional provision saying so. – Rappler.com

Linkback: https://tubagbohol.mikeligalig.com/index.php?topic=90685.0