Signature campaign vs political dynasties launched

MANILA, Philippines - A signature campaign seeking to ban political dynasties was launched yesterday in Parañaque by a civil society group.

The Movement Against Dynasties (MAD), a multisectoral and non-partisan organization, said it aims to gather signatures of at least 10 percent of the total number of registered voters nationwide.

Apart from Manila, the drive was also launched in Baguio, Antipolo, Tuguegarao, Lucena, Naga, Cebu, Cagayan de Oro, Gen. Santos, and Davao.

MAD’s members included students, professionals, and some leaders of the Catholic Church who have expressed opposition to political dynasties.

MAD’s sole objective is to stop the proliferation of political dynasties that is forbidden by the 1987 Philippine Constitution.

The Charter provision, however, needs an enabling law.

Meanwhile, Team PNoy senatorial candidate Ramon Magsaysay Jr. has sought the passage of the Anti-Political Dynasty Bill in the next Congress.

“We may not have the time now as Congress has just three days in June to enact an enabling law but I want this legislation passed immediately,” said Magsaysay, adding he would file a bill once he gets elected in the May polls.

Magsaysay said his father, former President Ramon Magsaysay Sr., refused to allow his relatives, particularly the late President’s brother Genaro, to join politics during his administration.