By Gabriel Kim Leal
(February 10, 2025) – A political analyst on Monday stressed that ending political dynasties in the Philippines goes beyond just voter education, citing their continued influence on the masses.
Jean Encinas-Franco, a professor of political science at the University of the Philippines, pointed out that many Filipinos still depend on politicians for basic services, which makes voter education alone ineffective.
“Ang pinaka-solution talaga nito ay maging efficient ang gobyerno sa pagbigay ng social services. Kasi kung ang lahat ay ‘di kailangang pumila, ‘di kailangang lumapit sa pulitiko, napaka-ideal ng sitwasyon na ‘yon,” said Encinas-Franco on One PH’s Sa Totoo Lang.
A report by the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism last month revealed that 113 out of 149 cities in the country are controlled by political dynasties, many of which are seeking reelection in the upcoming elections.
Among them is former president Rodrigo Duterte, who is aiming to return as mayor of Davao City, with his son, Baste Duterte, the current mayor, running as vice mayor. Vice Pres. Sara Duterte-Carpio also held the position several times. Their family has ruled Davao City for decades.
Meanwhile, ACT-CIS Party-list Rep. Erwin Tulfo and his brother, Ben Tulfo, who are both running for senator, have been lording it over in surveys. Their older brother is Sen. Raffy Tulfo.
Las Piñas Rep. Camille Villar, who’s also running for senator, could join his brother, Sen. Mark Villar, in the upper chamber. She could be replaced by her mother, Sen. Cynthia Villar, who’s vying for the congressional seat in Las Piñas. Their patriarch, former senator Manny Villar, is among the richest persons in the Philippines.
“Nakabaon na sila doon sa mga lugar kung nasaan sila (political dynasties). Sila na ‘yung may-ari ng mga business over the years. Can you imagine ‘yung namamasukan sa private companies nila, tapos ‘yung mga taong umaasa sa scholarships nila, sa ayuda. Talagang iboboto sila,” said Encinas-Franco.
Multiple bills have been filed over the years to end political dynasties but nothing has come out of them.
(PM)
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