Statement — Local political dynasties, warlords, behind some party-list groups

Apparently, Malacañang is not the only one fielding or funding party-list groups in this election. Some established political dynasties have already penetrated the party-list system by forming party-list groups in order to get more pork barrel funds for personal enrichment, and extend their sphere of influence.

We received reports from our members and students in La Union that this dynasty ordered all incumbent officials and candidates, from provincial to barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan officers to endorse and campaign for Abono Party-List and prevent other party-list groups including the KABATAAN Party-List from campaigning in their districts.

There is nothing wrong with party-list groups soliciting the support of local politicians. But it is unfair and illegal for local politicians to establish a party-list group, proclaim that it is a group of marginalized Filipinos and use massive resources to ensure its victory. This is not how to strengthen our democracy.

There are 93 party-list groups participating in the 2007 elections. How many of these groups are truly representative of the underprivileged sectors of our society? While we contend with very little resources, some groups find it easy to mount an expensive campaign since they are shameless dummies of traditional politicians.

KABATAAN Party-List reiterates the call for Comelec to publicize the list of party-list nominees. We urge the Commission on Elections to be more discerning in recognizing party-list groups. We support the proposal to publish the list of nominees of party-list candidates. We will not be surprised if scions of political dynasties are among the nominees of some party-list groups.

We hope the people will not be coerced into voting dummy party-list groups of traditional politicians. We hope they will realize the evil machinations of local politicians in forming these groups.

Raymond Palatino
President
KABATAAN Party-List