Senate Deputy Majority Leader JV Ejercito on Friday underscored the importance of passing anti-political dynasty legislation, saying it could pave the way for new leaders outside entrenched political families to enter public service.
In a virtual press briefing, Ejercito confirmed that discussions on the long-delayed reform have resumed in the Senate, with hearings expected to be scheduled on several anti-dynasty proposals.
He noted that Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo “Ping” Lacson has signaled plans to calendar hearings, while multiple senators expressed readiness to join the deliberations.
Ejercito, who filed his own version of the bill, acknowledged his own political lineage but stressed 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 explained that the measure aims 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.
While recognizing the difficulty of passing the measure given that many lawmakers come from political families, Ejercito emphasized its potential impact.
“This will really institute change. This will be a game changer if ever this will be passed,” he said.
Ejercito added that renewed Senate debates provide an opportunity to revisit a constitutional principle meant to ensure equal access to public office and strengthen democratic participation.