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Philippines Still Grapples with Political Dynasties 40 Years After People Power

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  Published in Politics and Government on Thursday, February 26th 2026 at 8:08 GMT by The Straits Times
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MANILA, Philippines - Forty years after the People Power Revolution sought to dismantle authoritarian rule and establish a more equitable society, the Philippines finds itself still grappling with the pervasive influence of political dynasties. Despite constitutional safeguards intended to curb their power, these families continue to dominate the nation's political landscape, hindering genuine reform and inclusive development.

The 1987 Constitution, drafted in the wake of Ferdinand Marcos's ouster, included a provision specifically designed to limit the concentration of power within families. However, a combination of legal loopholes, ambiguous wording, and consistent judicial reluctance to enforce the spirit of the law have rendered this provision largely ineffective. The result? A political system where power is often inherited, not earned through merit or popular mandate.

"The promise of a level playing field hasn't materialized," explains Dr. Elaiza Escareal, a political science professor at the University of the Philippines. "The entrenched power of political dynasties continues to be a major impediment to meaningful reforms and inclusive development."

This isn't a new phenomenon. The roots of dynastic politics in the Philippines predate the Marcos era, stretching back generations. Historically, wealthy and influential families wielded significant control over both politics and the economy. Marcos, hailing from a prominent clan himself, not only perpetuated this pattern but actively consolidated power within his own family and close associates during his two-decade rule. This created a deeply ingrained culture of patronage and clientelism that has proven remarkably resilient.

The constitutional provision aimed at curbing dynasties centers around restricting the number of relatives who can simultaneously hold public office. The crucial point of contention, however, lies in the definition of "relatives." The Supreme Court, in a series of rulings, has interpreted this term broadly, allowing families to circumvent the restrictions by fielding proxies, supporting candidates with close but not technically familial ties, and leveraging complex networks of influence.

"The definition of 'relative' is so broad that it effectively defeats the purpose of the law," states lawyer Rico Quimbo, a former congressman who actively campaigned for strengthening the anti-dynasty provision. "It creates a grey area that allows dynasties to operate with impunity."

The re-emergence of the Marcos family as a dominant political force provides a stark illustration of this enduring problem. Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s presidency, despite the historical baggage associated with his family's rule, demonstrates the ability of these dynasties to rehabilitate their image and regain positions of power. This isn't simply a matter of nostalgia; it reflects a sophisticated understanding of political maneuvering and the maintenance of vast economic resources.

But the issue isn't confined to the national stage. Political dynasties permeate local government units across the Philippine archipelago, from provincial governors to town mayors. This localized dominance fosters a cycle of patronage and dependency, where citizens are often reliant on these powerful families for basic services and economic opportunities, perpetuating a system where accountability is weak and corruption thrives.

The consequences of this dynastic control extend beyond political inequality. It actively hinders efforts to address critical issues like poverty, corruption, and social injustice. With their entrenched power and financial resources, these families are often able to deflect scrutiny, evade accountability, and protect their economic interests, further exacerbating existing inequalities.

Civil society organizations and reform advocates are continuing to push for stricter enforcement of the anti-dynasty provision, increased transparency in political financing, and a more robust system of checks and balances. They advocate for clearer definitions of "relatives," limitations on campaign spending, and independent oversight of electoral processes. However, these efforts face significant resistance from the very families who benefit from the current system.

"Breaking the cycle of political dynasties will require a concerted effort from all sectors of society, including the judiciary, civil society, and the media," Dr. Escareal emphasizes. "It's a long and arduous process, but it is essential for the Philippines to truly achieve its democratic ideals."

Ultimately, the future of Philippine democracy hinges on addressing the enduring legacy of political dynasties and creating a more equitable and inclusive system where power is distributed more broadly and accountability is paramount. The question remains: can the Philippines finally break free from the shackles of its dynastic past, or is it destined to remain a nation bound by the privileges of a select few?