Congress told: Respond on political dynasty petition

The Supreme Court (SC) has ordered the Senate and the House of Representatives to comment on the latest petition seeking to compel them to comply with the constitutional provision that prohibits political dynasties.

Lawyer Camille Sue Ting, SC spokesperson, announced the order during a press briefing in Baguio City, stating that it was issued during the Court's regular en banc session yesterday.

The petition, filed by the 1Sambayan Coalition and several other groups and individuals on Monday, also urged the Court to hold Congress in contempt if it fails to comply with Article II, Section 26 of the 1987 Constitution within one year, should the petition be granted.

Article II, Section 26 of the 1987 Constitution mandates that the State prohibit political dynasties. The provision explicitly states: “The State shall guarantee equal access to opportunities for public service and prohibit political dynasties as may be defined by law.”