FORMER Senator and now Liberal Party senatorial candidate Ramon “Jun” Magsaysay Jr. said he wants the passage of the Anti-Political Dynasty Bill in the next Congress.
“We may not have the time now as Congress has just three days in June to enact an enabling law but I want this legislation passed immediately,” said Magsaysay, adding that he will file a bill once he gets elected back in the Senate.
Ramon Magsaysay Jr. said his father, former President Ramon Magsaysay refused to allow his relatives, particularly the late President’s brother Genaro, to join politics during the Magsaysay administration.”
Ramon Magsaysay Jr. is supportive of the proposed definition of ‘political dynasty’ in existing bills. The pending measures define political dynasty as “up to the second degree of consanguinity or affinity, which shall refer to the relatives of a person who may be the latter’s brother or sister, whether of full or half-blood, direct ascendant or direct descendant, whether legitimate, illegitimate or adopted, including their spouses.”
The bill is consistent with Article II, Section 26 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution stating that “The State shall guarantee equall access to opportunities for public service and prohibit political dynasties as may be defined by law.”
Former Senator Ramon Magsaysay Jr. further clarified that while another Magsaysay is in vying for a Senate seat, he stressed that he is the only descendant in the lineage of the beloved former President.
“Sabi nga po ni President Benigno Aquino sa aming coalition ad, mag-ingat po sa mga nagpapanggap,” Magsaysay pointed out.