In the Public Square: Taking the fight to the dynasties

How did Philippine politics get this way? And what can be done to change it? In the ongoing drama of the impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, the Senate sits as the impeachment court—and also as a representative of the general public. But the Senate also represents the country in a different and darker way: It is the practice of dynasty politics taken to the extreme. Eight seats in the 24-person Senate are occupied by four pairs of siblings. At least four are held by senators who have family members in national elective or appointive positions. At least two belong to political families. How did Philippine politics get this way? And what can be done to change it? It is time to take the fight to the dynasties. In this new episode of In the Public Square, Rappler columnist John Nery is joined by former Supreme Court senior associate justice Antonio Carpio, and lawyer Alex Lacson, the chair and vice chair, respectively, of the People’s Initiative Coalition Against Dynasties. Watch the episode on Wednesday, September 30, at 8 pm. – Rappler.com How does this make you feel? Loading