Political analysts told BusinessWorld that the tightening grip of political dynasties in the party-list system represents a departure from its constitutional mandate to represent marginalized and underrepresented sectors.
The 1987 Constitution established the party-list system to provide representation for labor, peasant, urban poor, indigenous cultural communities, women, youth, and other sectors that are traditionally excluded from mainstream politics. However, analysts note that many party-list groups have become vehicles for established political clans to expand their influence, diluting the system's original intent.
This trend undermines the democratic principle of broad representation and raises questions about the effectiveness of the party-list system in empowering marginalized communities. Advocates call for reforms to ensure that party-list groups genuinely represent their sectors rather than serving the interests of political dynasties.