QUEZON CITY, Philippines — Lawmakers still have adequate time to pass anti-political dynasty legislation to ensure its implementation before the 2028 elections, according to House Deputy Speaker and Iloilo 1st District Representative Janette Garin on Saturday.
Garin expressed optimism regarding the passage of the bill, attributing her confidence to the determination within Congress to push the measure through.
“Confident because there is the political will on this,” Garin said.
Her remarks followed Malacañang’s statement confirming that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. supports the Supreme Court’s mandate directing Congress to enforce the anti-political dynasty provision enshrined in the 1987 Constitution.
The House of Representatives passed its version of the proposed law in June.
Garin noted that the bill now relies on Senate action before both chambers can align their versions in a bicameral conference committee.
“Hopefully, matapos ng Senado para mapag-usapan ng Senado at ng Kamara, kasi for sure magkakaroon ito ng maraming discussion sa bicameral committee,” Garin said.
She acknowledged that crafting the law’s implementing rules and regulations (IRR) within the remaining timeframe leading up to the 2028 polls presents a practical challenge.
“So may panahon pa naman. The question is whether kakayanin ’yung IRR before the 2028 elections,” the lawmaker noted.
Despite the tight schedule, Garin emphasized that Congress can accelerate the legislative process if both chambers commit extra time to the measure.
“Pero again, kung gugustuhin, sa tingin ko ay puwede naman talagang mag-overtime,” Garin emphasized. “So, if there’s a will, there’s a way. Sakripisyo lang sa oras kasi trabaho namin ’yun.”