The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has thrown its full support behind the passage of an anti-dynasty law, with its social action and justice arm urging the dismantling of entrenched political clans as a decisive step toward curbing corruption in the country.
Bishop Gerardo Alminaza, chair of the CBCP Episcopal Commission on Social Action-Justice and Peace, said corruption will continue to thrive unless the nation confronts political families that have dominated public office for generations.
“An Anti-Dynasty Law should be passed without delay,” Alminaza said. “Some clans have dominated politics for decades. Yet even newer politicians in national leadership seem to quickly expand their reach through the election or appointment of their relatives.”
Alminaza, who also heads Caritas Philippines, called on voters “not to tolerate political dynasties,” stressing the need to open public office to fresh, competent leaders.
“We must stand together and continue our advocacy until measures for non-repetition and accountability are fully achieved,” he said.
“Corruption must finally end; nothing less will do. This is also the moment for our nation to pass a genuine anti-dynasty law,” he said.
Citing data from the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism show that at least 18 political dynasties with five or more members in public office secured seats in the May 2025 elections. These include clans spread across Luzon, the Visayas and Mindanao.
Alminaza noted that many regions dominated by what he described as “obese political dynasties” remain mired in poverty, with social services often failing to reach marginalized communities.
