Politics as enduring family business

The 2022 elections will once again provide proof that politics in this country has become a family business. It is a family business that is guaranteed by the Constitution on one hand (they are elected by the people) and discouraged on the other (prohibition against local dynasties “as may be defined by law”).

We have read stories of elective positions being unopposed or getting token opposition from brave souls or nuisance candidates. We have been desensitized at the sight of family members exchanging positions regardless of qualifications for the new positions they are gunning for. We have seen new family members running for positions because mom, dad, sister, or brother moved up to run for a national office. In some instances, these new family members just relocated to the place, having grown up in Metro Manila or abroad, and not knowing the local culture or language. Nevertheless, they are adored (“ang guapo” or “gandang artista!”).

These political dynasties and agreements among politicians to effectively divide the governance of local governments need to be destroyed in order to give life to the constitutional mandate to the State to “guarantee equal access to opportunities for public service.” The barrier to entering public service has become too high for the ordinary good Filipino citizen.

While these monopoly-minded politicians have gamed the system, we are not without remedies. First, let us not vote for these politicians. Second, let us educate our friends and family members on the evils of political dynasties. Third, let us teach critical thinking to the next generation. They are our only hope. As they say, the only way for evil men (and women) to win is for good men (and women) to do nothing.

Jason Salazar, [email protected]