The concept of political dynasty is not new to Filipinos anymore. In fact, it has existed for so long that it has already established a place in the country’s “index of norms”.  Although it is undeniable that some cities flourished under the rule of several political families, corruption (the bad) still outweighs the good. It is a double-edged sword, but the blunt side is struck.

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It's time to shade the ballots again, but the warfare this season is more controversial with the members of two of the most well-known politician families teaming up to covet the highest positions in the government. Sen. ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Is running for President with Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte as his confidante.  However, even in the smallest cities in the Philippines, candidates of familiar surnames were still printed in the biggest tarpaulins possible, and officials, bonded by blood were seemingly passing down a crown that has long been decided.

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A dynasty is a scroll of family members, born to rule a specific place. Painted by history, dynasties have always benefited the so-called “royal bloods”. But in this country, where democracy is the foundation of law, Dynasties should not have a room in politics.

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As stated in the 1987 Constitution of the Philippines Article II Section 26: "The State shall guarantee equal access to opportunities for public service, and prohibit political dynasties as may be defined by law." This clearly emphasized that such action is against the constitution. And by far, the law is seemingly being bent and mocked as we see these families taking turns in leading every city and province in the country, and this applies to the three branches of the government: judiciary, legislative, and executive.

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Chances are given to us every election, but due to these families presenting themselves, we fail to see the diamond in the rough. How long are we going to tolerate political dynasties? How long are we going to put potential leaders in a queue, waiting for popular families to get tired of ruling? How are we going to know who’s a better leader if there are only two families quoted as the “choices”? How long are we going to be enveloped under their influence? Isn’t it time to give us the chance we never had?