TACLOBAN CITY – Tingog party-list Representative Jude Acidre emphasized that any move by the Supreme Court to compel Congress to enact an anti-political dynasty law would violate the principle of separation of powers between the judicial and legislative branches of government.
This statement came in response to a petition filed by members of the civil society coalition 1Sambayan, which urged the high court to mandate lawmakers to pass the long-pending anti-political dynasty bill.
“I don’t think the judiciary can impose themselves on the House, or the Senate, or Congress itself,” Acidre said in an interview Sunday, April 6.
The petitioners—who include 1987 Constitution framer Christian Monsod, former Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales, members of the clergy, and various legal professionals—cite Article II, Section 26 of the 1987 Constitution. It states that the State shall guarantee equal access to opportunities for public service and prohibit political dynasties as may be defined by law.
Even Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero earlier commented that the Supreme Court cannot compel lawmakers to legislate the matter.
“Personally, I believe two things,” Acidre said. “First, we should talk about the issue and ultimately allow the people to decide—because dynasty or not, in the end, it is the people who vote.”
“Second, I agree that there should be more opportunities for broader participation in politics. But I don’t think the way to achieve that can be reduced to simply preventing certain people from participating,” he added.
Acidre further emphasized that effective governance is rooted in a public servant’s competence and readiness to serve, regardless of whether they come from a political family or not.
He also proposed that more support be given to aspiring public servants by strengthening political parties, offering opportunities for leadership development, and promoting inclusive participation in the democratic process.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
