Locals react to Suan’s move against political dynasties

AIMING to dismantle the concentration of power among a few elite families, Cagayan de Oro First District Representative Lordan Suan has filed House Bill No. 6799, also known as the Anti-Political Dynasty Act.

The proposed measure, filed on December 12 before the 20th Congress, seeks to open government service to a broader range of Filipinos, specifically those without established political lineage.

According to Bert Amplayo, Suan’s political spokesperson, the Congressman’s goal is to level the playing field.

“Mi duso sa bag-ong balaudnon si 1st District Cong. Lordan Suan nga naila isip HB no. 6799, kon, anti-political dynasty act,” Amplayo confirmed.

The bill intends to break the monopoly of authority and influence currently held by families dominating both local and national politics. If enacted, proponents believe it would significantly alter the country’s political landscape, fostering integrity and creating opportunities for new leadership.

However, the proposal has drawn mixed reactions from the electorate, highlighting a divide on whether legislation or voter choice should curate the ballot.

Jellian Jade Alcoser, a 34-year-old virtual assistant, expressed skepticism about restricting candidates based on family ties.

“I’m not really in favor of that bill. It doesn’t matter if members of the same family runs at the same time,” she said, emphasizing that the final decision should ultimately rest with the voters.

Julmar Achas, a welder from Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental, shared a similar sentiment, prioritizing performance over pedigree.

“As long as maayo lang ang record pero ug di maayo angay rasad nga dili na iboto, depende gihapon na sa mga tao,” Achas said.

In contrast, Janette Ramirez, a vendor from Jasaan, believes intervention is necessary to refresh the pool of public servants.

“Dapat gyud sad mapasa na nga balaod kay ng sigi raman tuyok-tuyok ang mga politiko, mao rang dagwaya, daghan mas deserving,” she said.

The proposed legislation joins ongoing efforts in Congress to define and curb family control of political power in the country.