DECEMBER 29, 2025 — A new Pulse Asia survey reveals that more than half of Filipino adults want Congress to act swiftly on a law banning political dynasties, but regional and class divides show the issue is far from settled.

Nationwide, 54 percent of respondents expressed support for the measure, with 21 percent saying they “very much agree” and 33 percent “somewhat agree.” Meanwhile, 27 percent remain undecided, 13 percent “somewhat disagree,” and 5 percent “very much disagree.”

Metro Manila posted the strongest backing, with 69 percent in favor, while Luzon and Visayas both registered 59 percent agreement. Mindanao stood out as the only region where support failed to reach majority, with 38 percent undecided, 34 percent agreeing, and 27 percent opposing.

Socioeconomic classes showed mixed results. Class D respondents leaned toward approval at 57 percent, but middle-class Filipinos (Class C) and the poorest sector (Class E) did not cross the majority threshold, with agreement at 43 percent and 47 percent respectively.

The survey, conducted December 12 to 15, comes as lawmakers filed at least 13 versions of an anti-dynasty bill in the 20th Congress. The 1987 Constitution mandates such legislation, but decades of attempts have stalled amid resistance from entrenched political families.

Progressive groups argue dynasties perpetuate corruption and concentrate power. 

“Congress should immediately pass a law banning political dynasties,” the survey statement read, echoing calls from reform advocates.

People vs. political clans: who will prevail?

Will the strong support in Metro Manila and Luzon pressure lawmakers to act, or will undecided voters in Mindanao and other sectors dilute momentum?

The numbers highlight a growing frustration among Filipinos who see dynasties as barriers to genuine representation. Filipinos are watching closely, and the message is clear: dynasties remain a defining fault line in the nation’s democracy.

We’ve come so far as a democratic state. The bottom line is, power should never remain in the hands of just a handful.

(Image: Philippine News Agency)