THE House of Representatives on Wednesday approved on second reading a proposed measure seeking to prohibit second degree relatives from holding public office at the same time.

Via voice vote, the chamber passed House Bill No. 8389, or the Anti-Political Dynasty Bill, which will ban spouses and relatives up to second degree of consanguinity or affinity from simultaneously running for or holding elective positions in the same locality, including barangays, municipalities, cities, provinces and legislative districts.

The bill, principally authored by Speaker Faustino “Bojie” G. Dy III and Ilocos Norte Rep. Ferdinand Alexander A. Marcos III, is among the priority measures identified by the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council.

“If we truly want to strengthen the public’s trust in our institution, let’s pass the Anti-Political Dynasty Bill,” Mr. Dy told lawmakers, according to the press release.

The substitute bill, which consolidated 17 related bills, stated that candidates must submit a sworn statement to the Commission on Elections to ensure that their candidacy will not result in a prohibited political dynasty. — Pexcel John Bacon

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