Manila: Malaca±ang announced that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has directed Congress to prioritize the anti-political dynasty bill along with three other critical legislative measures aimed at enhancing transparency, accountability, and fair governance.
According to Philippines News Agency, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro highlighted the significance of the proposed Anti-Dynasty Bill, Party-list System Reform Act, Independent People's Commission Act, and Citizen Access and Disclosure of Expenditures for National Accountability (CADENA) Act during a press briefing. Castro emphasized that the move aligns with President Marcos Jr.'s vision of promoting open and inclusive governance.
Castro stated that the prioritization of these four legislative measures is a response to the public's demand for a more equitable political system. She pointed out that the political landscape has evolved, with some politicians abusing power and manipulating laws, which necessitates a fairer system that empowers citizens rather than concentrating power in the hands of a few.
Regarding the Anti-Dynasty Bill, Castro explained that President Marcos's stance has changed due to observed abuses within the political system. The President aims to inform the public of their right to choose leaders based on merit, not merely because of shared family names.
In a recent Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC) meeting at Malaca±an Palace, the President underscored the need for Congress to thoroughly study the four priority bills. He stressed the importance of clearly defining terms such as 'dynasty' in the anti-dynasty bill and 'marginalized sector' in the Party-list System Reform Act to ensure effective implementation.
Castro also mentioned that President Marcos supports the Independent People's Commission Act, which is designed to investigate illegal infrastructure projects. However, he wants to ensure the commission is not exploited for political ends.
Marcos expressed no objections to the proposed CADENA Act, which aims to ensure transparency and accountability in government spending. When questioned about the lack of urgency certification for these bills, Castro clarified that the President's message is clear and consistent with constitutional guidelines, which require such certification only in cases of public calamity or emergency. She reassured that the absence of an urgency certification does not diminish the administration's commitment to these legislative priorities.
