What exactly is a “dynasty”? If we follow the dictionary definition, a dynasty is when power is passed from one family member to another over a long period—like kings and queens handing down the throne to their children. So when we hear “political dynasty,” we often imagine a powerful family holding on to government positions for generations, and we think it’s a bad thing.
But in the context of the Philippines, this word doesn’t always fit. Yes, we have many political families whose members take turns holding office. The father is a mayor, the son becomes a congressman, the wife runs for governor. But here’s the truth: none of them can sit in power without getting votes from the people. No one automatically inherits a government position in our system. Every politician, no matter their last name, still needs to be elected.
That’s why using the word “dynasty” as if it always means something evil is not fair. It makes it sound like these families are forcing themselves into power, as if the people have no say. But the Filipino people vote. And in most cases, they vote willingly for these candidates.
Now, this doesn’t mean that political families are always good, or that we should ignore the risks of having the same families in power for a long time. In some places, it’s true—there are families who control everything, from business to local government offices. Sometimes, they use their power to silence opponents or keep others from running. These are real problems, and they should be addressed.
But not every political family is corrupt. Some serve honestly and work hard for their communities. Some win again and again not because they cheat, but because they actually do a good job. If people are satisfied with their performance and choose to vote for them again, can we really say they are part of a harmful dynasty?
It is too simple to say all political families are bad. That way of thinking is unfair and lazy. It focuses only on the name and not on the performance or values of the person. A politician should not be judged only by their family background. What really matters is whether they are honest, capable, and truly serving the people.
So instead of blaming families, we should look at the bigger system. One of the main reasons political families keep winning is because the system is weak. Political parties are not strong. Many candidates don’t have the resources to run a good campaign. Some voters choose names they are familiar with because they lack information about the other options.
The answer is not to ban family members from running. That might seem like an easy solution, but it won’t fix the root problems. What we need is real reform. First, we need stronger political parties that support new leaders with clear plans and principles—not just popular personalities. Second, we need strict rules on campaign spending so elections are fair and not just a game for the rich. Third, and most importantly, we need better political education for the people.
If voters are well-informed, they will not vote just based on name recognition. They will look at qualifications, track record, and character. And when more qualified candidates step up and the public is ready to listen, political families will not dominate just because of their names. They will compete fairly with everyone else.
At the end of the day, let’s not focus too much on labels like “dynasty.” Let’s ask more important questions: Is this person doing their job well? Are they helping their community? Are they honest and transparent? If a politician—whether from a known family or not—serves with integrity and gets elected fairly, then we should respect the choice of the people.
Democracy is not about shutting doors. It’s about opening the field to anyone who is willing and able to serve. And if the people choose someone again and again because of good leadership, then maybe what we’re seeing is not a dynasty—but a legacy of service.
Let’s stop judging leaders by their last name. Let’s judge them by what they do.