Caritas Philippines president Bishop Gerardo Alminaza pushed on Monday for the immediate passage of an Anti-Dynasty Law, asserting that the measure is essential to ending entrenched corruption in the country.
Alminaza said political clans have dominated leadership for decades and warned that their continued expansion in government fuels public distrust. “An Anti-Dynasty Law should be passed without delay. 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,” he said.
His appeal aligns with recent moves in the House of Representatives where Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III has been pressing lawmakers to act on the long-stalled Anti-Dynasty Bill. Dy has positioned the measure as central to restoring public trust and opening political space long controlled by powerful families.
Alminaza urged Filipinos “not to tolerate political dynasties,” saying it is time for new and qualified leaders to enter public service. “We are facing a moral reckoning, and our people are seeking the truth. Corruption must finally end; nothing less will do. This is also the moment for our nation to pass a genuine anti-dynasty law,” he added.
According to the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism, at least 18 obese dynasties, defined as clans with at least five members active in politics, were once again secured in the 2025 elections.
Alminaza cautioned that some officials may attempt to create the impression that the corruption problem has already been resolved. He urged the public to “stand together and continue our advocacy until measures for non-repetition and accountability are fully achieved.”
He added that “Anti-corruption, integral ecology advocacy, and social action must remain in focus,” citing recent nationwide protests as proof of broad public recognition that corruption and ecological neglect continue to harm vulnerable communities.
“Vibrant and varied actions around the country, where multi sectoral groups participated, should inspire us all to keep learning together. We need to keep exercising synodality and solidarity with the poor, with one another, and with other concerned groups,” Alminaza said.
As the Catholic Church’s social action arm intensifies its call for reform, Dy and his bloc in the House continue mobilizing support for the Anti-Dynasty Bill, placing renewed pressure on lawmakers who have repeatedly blocked similar measures in previous Congresses.
