Communications Secretary Lino Cayetano expressed his belief that the nation would benefit if no members of his prominent political family pursue public office in the upcoming 2028 elections, reinforcing his stance against political dynasties.
During a television interview on Monday, October 26, Cayetano firmly stated that he has no plans to re-enter elective politics.
When asked regarding his electoral ambitions for 2028, he replied, “No, absolutely not.”
He further added, “I still stand with what I said na maybe no Cayetano should run in 2028 and maybe that might be better for our country.”
Cayetano clarified that his perspective is not a reflection on his family members’ competence or dedication to public service, but rather stems from the conviction that power should not be consolidated among a select few families.
Expanding on this point, he stated, “Not because hindi makakapag-ambag ng maganda ang mga Cayetano, pero kailangan na rin natin tigilin at putulin ‘yung pagpapatakbo ng mga dinastiya sa ating bayan.”
He also remarked, “I think the bad outweighs the good.”
According to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) chief, dismantling dynastic rule would pave the way for a fresh wave of younger leaders and new political figures to enter government service.
These comments arrive while multiple Cayetano family members hold prominent roles in the Philippine government.
His brother, Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano, can seek another term in 2028, and their sister, Pia Cayetano, serves as a senator. Meanwhile, Alan’s spouse, Taguig City Mayor Lani Cayetano, faces term limits that prevent her from running for the same seat in 2028.
Lino Cayetano himself previously held office as the mayor of Taguig from 2019 to 2022 and represented the city’s second district from 2013 to 2016. Their lineage includes their late father, former Senator and Batasang Pambansa member Rene Cayetano.
Prior to his appointment as PCO secretary earlier this month, Lino Cayetano served as the general manager of the state-run People’s Television Network.
Despite his family’s deep roots in government, he maintains that breaking away from political dynasties is a necessary step for national progress.