MANILA, Philippines — The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has reiterated its call for lawmakers to pass legislation banning political dynasties, stressing that government posts must remain accessible to all qualified citizens rather than serving as family heirlooms.
Lipa Archbishop Gilbert Garcera, president of the CBCP, highlighted the church’s position in a pastoral statement released on Friday, September 25, reminding political figures that public authority is held on behalf of the electorate.
“Public office must never become a family inheritance. It is a public trust, entrusted by the people to serve all,” Garcera said.
Garcera noted that monopolizing power extends beyond conventional politics, raising fundamental questions about ethics, morality, and equal opportunity for prospective public servants.
“Political leadership should remain open to all Filipinos who possess the competence, integrity, and desire to serve,” he said.
The Catholic hierarchy cautioned that permitting political influence to consolidate within a few select families risks exposing state institutions to patronage, favoritism, and private interests.
While advocating for an “authentic, meaningful, and effective” measure against political dynasties, the CBCP clarified that any potential legislation should serve the broader public interest rather than target specific families, parties, candidates, or sitting officials.
The bishops’ statement follows a recent Supreme Court directive instructing Congress to act on its constitutional duty to prohibit political dynasties, noting that nearly four decades of legislative inaction amounted to grave abuse of discretion.
Although the 1987 Constitution explicitly tasks the state with providing equal access to public service and banning political dynasties “as may be defined by law,” Congress has yet to approve comprehensive legislation defining and implementing the ban.
Garcera also urged the public to review proposed anti-dynasty legislation, engage in constructive discussions, and remain vigilant against vote-buying, intimidation, misinformation, and political coercion.