Drilon calls for constructive debate on anti-dynasty bill

MANILA-Senate President Franklin M. Drilon today threw his support for the passage of anti-dynasty bill and urged his colleagues in both chambers “to allow a constructive debate over the proposed measure.”

“It’s time to end the long wait. I encourage our colleagues to give the bill a chance. Let us provide an avenue that will allow for a constructive debate on this very important issue which would bring positive changes in our political system,” stressed Drilon.    

The Senate leader made the statement following the hearing held by the Senate Committee on Electoral Reforms and People’s Participation, which took place a week after the House version of the anti-political dynasty bill was sponsored before the plenary – the first time in 27 years.

Drilon said he believes that the passage of the anti-political dynasty law is a tool to reform the current political system in the country.

“Naniniwala po tayo na malaki ang magagawa ng anti-political dynasty law sa sistema ng pulitika sa bansa. Nagsimula po tayo sa Senado nang tinanggal natin ang pork barrel. Wala na po ang pork barrel dahil pinakinggan natin ang taumbayan, at muli ay atin silang papakinggan,” said Drilon, in a radio interview over DZRH.

(“I believe the anti-political dynasty law will significantly change the political system in the country. We have already done it with the pork barrel. The Senate heard and acted on the people’s clamor to abolish the pork barrel and we shall do it again.”)

“Tayo po personally ay lubos na sumusuporta sa panukalang batas na ito tungkol sa anti-political dynasty. Wala naman akong tatay o nanay o kapatid o kung anuman na nasa politika. Kahit kapitan sa barangay po wala po akong kamag-anak sa pulitika,” said Drilon.

(Personally, I am supporting the anti-political dynasty bill. I have no family members – not a mother, father or a sibling in Philippine politics, not even in the barangay level.”)

“Sa panibagong usapin sa anti-dynasty bill, atin pong dinggin at pag-aaralan nang mabuti kung ano ang kagustuhan talaga ng taumbayan. Atin pong tingnan ang pulso ng taumbayan,” he emphasized.

(In dealing with the anti-dynasty bill, the Filipino people can be assured that we shall seek out their will, their choice regarding this matter.)

The Senate chief likewise believes that the prevailing time and conditions “are ripe for the government to institute a law that has been demanded by the Constitution from the very start of the Fifth Republic.”

“Given the administration’s reformist stance, we enjoy a supportive political climate, so every opportunity that has been unavailable in previous years is now us lawmakers to act on,” said Drilon.