MANILA – Proposed legislation to curb political dynasties could give Filipinos outside established political families a fair chance to enter public service, Senator Joseph Victor Ejercito said.

In a virtual press briefing, Ejercito said discussions on the long-pending reform have resumed in the Senate, with hearings expected to be scheduled on several anti-dynasty bills.

He noted that Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson indicated plans to calendar hearings, and multiple senators expressed willingness to participate in the deliberations.

Ejercito said he filed his own version of the anti-political dynasty bill, acknowledging that he comes from a political family but stressing the need to broaden access to leadership.

“There are a lot of Filipinos who are willing to serve, but just don’t have the means, the name recall, the machinery, or the funds to get themselves elected,” he said.

He added that the measure seeks to prevent the concentration of political power and encourage wider participation in governance.

“No one has the right to monopolize power, be it economic or political power,” Ejercito said.

Asked about the bill’s prospects, he acknowledged the difficulty of passing the measure, noting that many lawmakers in both chambers belong to political families, but said its approval could bring lasting reforms.

“This will really institute change. This will be a game changer if ever this will be passed,” he said.

Ejercito said renewed Senate discussions provide an opportunity to revisit a constitutional policy intended to promote equal access to public office and strengthen democratic participation.

(PNA)