Solon backs anti-dynasty bill as Congress revisits reform

GENERAL SANTOS CITY — Sarangani Lone District Congressman Steve Chiongbian Solon has expressed support for the proposed Anti-Political Dynasty Bill, joining lawmakers pushing to enforce a constitutional provision that has remained unimplemented for nearly four decades.

Filed as House Bill No. 6771, the measure seeks to operationalize Article II, Section 26 of the 1987 Constitution, which mandates that the State prohibit political dynasties “as may be defined by law.” Despite this constitutional directive, previous Congresses have failed to pass an enabling law, often due to resistance from legislators with familial political ties.

The bill would restrict close relatives from simultaneously holding elective positions within the same jurisdiction. Under the proposal:

• Relatives within the fourth civil degree of consanguinity or affinity—including spouses and siblings—would be barred from holding another elective post in the same local government unit if one family member occupies a provincial, city, or municipal office.

• For national positions, the same relatives would be prohibited from holding another national post or any position within the same legislative district concurrently.

Supporters say the measure aims to prevent the concentration of political power in families while still allowing relatives to run in different jurisdictions or at different times. “This bill is a faithful execution of the constitutional provision—a strategic reform for good governance, and an assertion of the principle that public office is a public trust,” the bill’s explanatory note said.

Anti-dynasty legislation has been filed repeatedly since 1987, yet none have become law. Advocates note that a legislature dominated by political families faces inherent conflicts of interest in regulating itself.

Solon’s endorsement carries particular significance in Sarangani, where local politics has historically been influenced by family-based alliances. Passage of HB 6771 could broaden opportunities for first-time candidates, encourage issue-focused campaigns, and reduce reliance on established family names.

As the bill moves to committee deliberations, reform proponents say its fate will indicate the House of Representatives’ willingness to act on a nearly 40-year-old constitutional mandate.