Comelec not surprised over SC ruling on dynasties

MANILA, Philippines - The Supreme Court (SC) ruling junking the petition that sought to compel the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to abolish political dynasties did not surprise officials of the poll body.

Comelec chairman Sixto Brillantes said they were expecting the SC to deny the motion for reconsideration filed by Louis Biraogo, citing the lack of an enabling law that would implement constitutional provisions that prohibit political dynasties.

“In 2001, the Supreme Court had already made a decision on that. It is really up to Congress to come up with a law,” Brillantes said.

A group led by former vice president Teofisto Guingona filed a similar petition in October 2012 but this was not consolidated with Biraogo’s petition.

Under the 1987 Constitution, political dynasties are prohibited but Congress has not passed an enabling law for this.