MANILA, Philippines — The Supreme Court has ruled that Congress has a constitutional duty to enact a law prohibiting political dynasties, declaring that its failure to do so for 39 years constitutes a continuing violation of the Constitution and grave abuse of discretion.
In a landmark ruling, the high court held that Article II, Section 26 of the 1987 Constitution does not leave Congress with the option of deciding whether to prohibit political dynasties.
It said Congress has discretion only over how the prohibition will be carried out—including the definition of a political dynasty, the family relationships and public positions to be covered, and the scope and other provisions of the law.
The Constitution provides that the State shall guarantee equal access to opportunities for public service and prohibit political dynasties “as may be defined by law.”
The tribunal said the phrase does not make the constitutional prohibition optional. Rather, it recognizes Congress’ authority to determine the details of the prohibition.
