The Alyansa ng Nagkakaisang Mamamayan (ANIM) urges the public to file disqualification cases against the immediate family members of incumbent Representatives, Governors, or Mayors who are running simply to replace their relatives.
”We encourage the public to file separate disqualification cases against political dynasties in their areas. Dynastic politicians can only be disqualified or removed from office if such a case is filed. Without these cases, they remain in power,” said Atty. Alex Lacson, ANIM’s Lead Lawyer for the Anti-Dynasty Campaign.
“We at ANIM are ready to assist the public. They can reach us at anim.samasama@gmail.com, and we can provide a pro-forma Petition for Disqualification for a Congressman, Governor, or Mayor. They simply need to fill in the blanks. We will also provide a step-by-step guide,” added retired Army Capt. Roberto Yap, PMA Class 1982.
ANIM recently filed a disqualification petition on Friday, October 18, 2024, against former President Rodrigo Duterte, House Speaker Martin Romualdez, Senator Cynthia Villar, Ilocos Governor Matthew Marcos Manotoc, and Catanduanes Vice Governor Peter Cua.
In the petition filed with the Comelec, ANIM argued that it was the clear intention of the framers of the 1987 Constitution that immediate family members (spouses, children, parents, and siblings) of a “graduating” Congressman, Governor, or Mayor are prohibited from running for the same position to succeed their relatives. This intention is evident in the records of the Constitutional Commission’s deliberations.
ANIM further argued that the constitutional prohibitions against political dynasties are self-executing, particularly concerning the immediate family members of incumbents. The group asserted that all provisions of the Constitution are presumed self-executing, a presumption that should be upheld in case of doubt. This is a long-standing principle in constitutional law, as reaffirmed by the Supreme Court en banc in Manila Prince Hotel vs. GSIS (1997) and Tondo Medical Center Employees Association vs. CA (2007).
The lead petitioners include Bishop Colin Bagaforo and Bishop Gerardo Alminaza, President and Vice President of Caritas Philippines, respectively, along with retired AFP Major General Reynaldo Reyes and PNP Major General Wilfredo Franco. Other petitioners include Brigadier General Noel Delos Reyes (PNP), Col. Guillermo Cunanan (PA), and Capt. Roberto Yap (PA).
These individuals, all members of ANIM, represent a multisectoral coalition of organizations from six sectors, led by retired military and police officers, faith-based leaders, and other civic leaders.
ANIM focuses on three core issues: corruption, polytical dynasties, and electoral reforms.
Bishop Colin Bagaforo, President of Caritas Philippines, stated: “Political dynasties have turned politics into a family business, using government resources for personal enrichment rather than public service.
Bishop Gerry Alminaza of the Diocese of San Carlos added: “Many politicians seem to have lost their sense of propriety. With the proliferation of political dynasties in the country—blatant violations of the Constitution—checks and balances are eroded, corruption worsens, and societal problems remain unsolved. It is no wonder true and lasting reform remains elusive.”
Contact Persons:
Capt. Roberto Yap
0917 830 0888
Atty. Alex Lacson
0917 808 7967