By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.
MANILA, Philippines — The House of Representatives on Wednesday passed on third and final reading a bill barring second-degree relatives from holding public office simultaneously, advancing the proposal further than any similar effort since the 1987 Constitution prohibited political dynasties.
With 271 lawmakers voting in favor, 16 against and seven abstaining, the lower chamber approved Bill No. 8389, which bars spouses and relatives of up to a second degree of consanguinity and affinity from occupying elected posts at the same time amid calls for a wider scope.
“We now call upon our counterparts in the Senate to swiftly approve this important measure,” Lanao del Sur Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong said in a statement after the vote. READ: Anti-dynasty bill advances in House on second reading
The 1987 Constitution prohibits political dynasties, but requires an enabling law for it to take effect. Its Senate counterpart is pending on second reading.
