May 8, 2025
Carmela S. Fonbuena
PCIJ Executive Director
We started our series on political dynasties in October, the same month the candidates filed their certificates of candidacy. The methodology of the first report was simple: Count how many political dynasties have at least five family members running for various posts on May 12.
Five is more than the usual thickness of Philippine dynasties. Five is “obese,” which is not healthy for democracy, said Julio Teehankee, political science professor at the De La Salle University.
Since October, PCIJ has released more reports mapping political dynasties occupying district and party-list seats in the House of Representatives and top provincial and city posts.
In our latest report, TJ Burgonio introduces us to the land of “mega dynasties,” the Ilocos Region, the bailiwick of some of the biggest names in Philippine politics.
It is home to the political clan of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in Ilocos Norte, as well as the clan of Chavit Singson of Ilocos Sur.
We knew Chavit Singson has practical control over politics in his province, but the sheer number of his relatives running for public office — 23 — still surprised us.
One of his sons, Luis Charles, is running for two positions. He is running for councilor in Narvacan town, and is also the No. 4 nominee of the Ako Ilokano Ako.
Is this allowed? Click to read the report. We hope you can share them on your websites and social media pages. The materials are here.
Earlier, we also looked at the political dynasties in Bicol region, one of the most disaster-prone areas in the country.
We found that the politicians who are often seen attending to victims’ needs are behind or have allowed government projects blamed for environmental abuses that have increased communities’ vulnerability to calamities.
Others were embroiled in controversies over funding for mitigation projects.
Visit PCIJ.org to read more investigative and in depth reports.
More stories
