Senate leaders seek Marcos certification for anti-dynasty measure

MANILA – Senate leaders intend to ask President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to certify a proposed anti-political dynasty bill as urgent, according to Sen. Risa Hontiveros announced Thursday. The certification would fast-track the measure through the legislative process, reducing the typical review period and enabling faster congressional deliberation. Hontiveros made the announcement during a hearing of the Senate Ad Hoc Committee on Reinvigorating Investment and Sustainable Economic Growth. The anti-dynasty proposal seeks to restrict family members of elected officials from running for public office in the same locality within a specified timeframe. Proponents argue the measure addresses concerns about concentrated political power within families, while critics contend it raises constitutional questions regarding citizens' electoral rights. The Senate leadership's push for presidential certification signals renewed legislative momentum on the contentious bill, which has faced previous resistance from lawmakers whose families maintain significant political presence across multiple municipalities and provinces.