EDITORIAL

Wanted: Strict enforcement of election laws

FOR too long and since the constitution was amended in 1986, “political dynasty” was
deemed evil and our constitution banned it without as much defining what constitutes a
political dynasty.

An attempt was made to finally define it but has been made to apply only in the election and
organization of Sangguniang Kabataan (SK).

Unfortunately, there is nothing even in the SK definition that underscores its significance in
the context of a democratic system of government, where leaders are elected, and
succession is effected by the electorate, not by the family of politicians.

That mostly only the affluent political families in the country could afford to launch and
fund a campaign is a reality and that alone does not necessarily mean that their rule by
succession is infinite because their election is still in the hands of the people.

In our democratic system, it’s still not criminal to be affluent unless it is proven or
established by public perception that the family’s newfound wealth is ill-gotten. The phrase
“political dynasty” appended to a rich political family merely because its members are duly
elected in various positions is, therefore, grossly unfair.

Instead of making political dynastism an issue, what really needs to be done is to neutralize
the affluent corrupt political family known for blatantly violating our election laws. To do
this, we must encourage electorate to see to the strict enforcement of election laws that
seek to level the playing field and equalize political opportunities for all.

Friendship breaks traditions

A rare display of searing friendship was injected to the national consciousness when
President Duterte accompanied Bong Go to the Comelec offices on October 15. Go filed his
candidacy for senator in the May 2019 election, a move that was in accordance with the
President’s wish to see his bosom buddy become also a public servant through the ballot.

Their friendship seems to have no equal hereabouts.

Forged 21 years ago, it has survived trials and tribulations and has become the envy of
many. The two have become inseparable since they held their first handshake in 1997.
Since then, where Duterte goes, Go is there, too, come hell or high water.
By accompanying Go to the Comelec, Mr. Duterte broke tradition as he became the first
sitting President to personally accompany someone filing his certificate of candidacy. If
that is not genuine friendship, what is?