PH Constitution framer: Amend party-list system abused by dynasty clans

2025 elections: What’s old, new. Graphics by: Samuel Yap

MANILA, Philippines — Philippine Constitution framer Christian Monsod on Friday said that the party-list system should be amended because it is being abused by “dynasty clans.”

In a forum in San Juan City, Monsod, a former chairman of the Commission on Elections, was asked if the current representation of the party-list system in the House of Representatives is accomplishing the vision he had when the 1987 Constitution was created.

“It’s not because it is being abused by the politicians because of the lack of that law, the anti-dynasty,” he said.

“It’s the fault of the dynasty clans and the feudalistic system,” he added.

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He said three amendments are needed for the party-list system “to make it worth the intent and vision of the Constitution.”

He pointed out that an anti-political dynasty provision must be included in the party-list system law. Although the 1987 Constitution prohibits political dynasties to “guarantee equal access to opportunities for public service,” no law has been passed for such a purpose.

Second, he said, is to eliminate the limit of three sitting representatives per party-list “because party-list is a system of proportional representation and that is not a proportional representation.”

Third, he said, is that genuine representation must be present in the party-list system.

“There is a phrase there, they have a marked record of holding or speaking for or believing in this party and therefore they can represent parties. The phrase has been loosely interpreted,” he added.

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Monsod recalled an instance when “it allowed the son of [former] President [Gloria Macapagal] Arroyo, who is a resident of Forbes Park, to represent tricycle drivers.

“There should be a tricycle driver to represent them,” he added.

He pointed out that ordinary people who would become members of the House who may be criticized for not knowing how to craft laws would eventually learn how to do so.

“They will learn that. But we will learn their ideology, their platform, and what they stand for. That’s enough. If they’re correct, we will promote it. If they’re incorrect then we will not promote it,” he added.