Philippines Grapples with Corruption, Dynasty Rule: A Call for Reform

Time for Change. Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong’s claim of systemic corruption, alongside new research on political dynasties, demands action. Join the fight for a transparent and accountable government. Learn more and get involved today.

Philippines Grapples with Corruption, Dynasty Rule: A Call for Reform

By Bing Jabadan – TheNationWeek.Com | July 31, 2025

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong has leveled accusations of systemic corruption within government contracting.

Backed by a new study highlighting the enduring power of political dynasties, the nation faces a critical juncture in its fight for democratic reform.

In a recent interview on One News’ “Storycon,” Magalong alleged that lawmakers are receiving kickbacks of 35% to 40% on public projects, painting a picture of deeply entrenched corruption.

“This isn’t about isolated incidents; it’s a structural problem woven into the very fabric of how some government projects operate,” Magalong stated, demanding immediate action.

His allegations have amplified calls for legislative reform and greater transparency in government procurement.

Magalong specifically endorsed Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero’s proposed legislation aimed at preventing relatives of government officials from acting as contractors or suppliers.

This bill seeks to close a long-suspected loophole that has facilitated corruption for years.

The mayor’s support underscores the urgency of overhauling government contracting practices to restore public trust and ensure the efficient use of taxpayer money.

However, the fight against corruption is further complicated by the persistent issue of political dynasties.

A recent study by the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ) revealed that entrenched power structures continue to dominate the Philippine Congress.

While a few elections saw voters reject familiar family names, the overall picture remains largely unchanged.

The study found that over 80 percent of district representative seats are occupied by members of political dynasties, posing a significant challenge to democratic reform in the country.

Glimmers of Hope Amid Dynastic Dominance

The May midterm elections offered a few glimmers of hope.

In Las Piñas City, voters ousted the Villar clan after a 27-year reign, electing Mark Anthony Santos in a historic shift.

Similarly, in Baguio City, the Go family’s attempt to consolidate power was thwarted when Soledad Go failed to succeed her husband.

Santa Rosa City, Laguna, also saw a dynasty member defeated.

Dynasties Dig In, Expand Their Reach        

Despite these victories, the PCIJ study paints a stark picture of continued dynastic dominance.

Of the 212 dynastic lawmakers elected, a staggering 174 have at least one relative who either won a local position or is already serving a term until 2028.

This consolidation of power within families raises concerns about accountability and the potential for abuse of authority.

In some provinces, a single clan has managed to capture nearly all available districts, effectively turning legislative seats into family heirlooms.

Multiple Posts, One Family

The study highlights several examples of this consolidation of power:

• In Ilocos Norte, the Marcos family solidified its control.
• In Davao City, the Duterte clan extended its influence.
• In Nueva Ecija and Sultan Kudarat, the Suansing family now controls two districts in separate provinces.
• In Antique and Batangas, the Legarda clan expanded its reach.

The PCIJ identified at least 15 clans controlling multiple legislative districts.

Will the 20th Congress Tackle the Anti-Dynasty Law?

The recent poll results have fueled renewed hope that the incoming 20th Congress will finally address the long-debated anti-dynasty law.

Several incoming lawmakers have pledged to review and enact the legislation.

However, the road to reform remains steep.

The PCIJ’s research indicates that 188 seats were retained by ruling clans, while only 18 dynasty members successfully unseated incumbents.

New Clans Rise, Old Clans Return

The elections also saw the emergence of new and the return of established political clans.

However, not all dynasty attempts were successful, highlighting the complex and often violent dynamics of dynastic politics.

A Fight for Equitable Governance

The persistence of political dynasties in the Philippines poses a significant challenge to democratic governance.

While some voters are pushing back against these entrenched power structures, the overall trend suggests that dynastic politics remain deeply embedded in the country’s political landscape.