Former Senator Leila De Lima believes that it is the Constitution—not the Supreme Court—that should compel lawmakers to pass legislation banning political dynasties.
De Lima emphasized that the Constitution serves as the “supreme law of Congress,” mandating legislators to enact a law prohibiting political dynasties.
Her remarks came in response to Senate President Francis Escudero’s recent statement asserting that the Supreme Court cannot force Congress to pass such a law, calling it a “political question.”
Escudero’s comments were made amid a petition filed by the 1Sambayan Coalition and several members of the clergy, urging the Supreme Court to direct Congress to fulfill its constitutional duty.
The petitioners argue that Congress has failed to pass an anti-dynasty law nearly four decades since the ratification of the 1987 Constitution.
They also pointed out that about 80% of congressional seats are currently held by political families, which they claim violates Article II, Section 26 of the Constitution.
De Lima’s statement highlights the ongoing debate over political dynasties and the constitutional obligation of lawmakers to address the issue through legislation.