THE LATEST University of Mindanao Institute of Popular Opinion (UM-IPO) survey revealed that 6 in 10 Davaoeños believed that political dynasties strengthen stability and ensure continuity in programs and policies.
However, the same survey disclosed that 6 in 10 believed it increases the risk of nepotism and corruption.
UM- IPO conducted the online survey from January 24-February 16 to determine their perception of political dynasties and perceived effects on governance in the country.
It targeted 1,200 respondents of at least 18 years old and registered voters from the city’s three districts, done at a 95% confidence level and a 3% margin of error.
Survey results
Nine in ten or 93.8 % of the respondents acknowledged the presence of political dynasties in the country, attributing it to voters’ familiarity and loyalty to certain political families.
Furthermore, 89.6 % pointed to the strong influence and financial resources of political families as key enablers of dynastic rule.
Additionally, 81.3% of respondents identified the lack of strict laws preventing political dynasties as a major factor, while the same percentage cited cultural acceptance of family-based leadership.
About 72.9% considered the sustained power of these families to be due to their extensive experience, 62.5% believed the lack of viable alternative candidates caused political dynasties to persist, while 58.3% pointed to a general lack of awareness or concern on the issue.
Effects on local governance
Meanwhile, 72.9% believed political dynasties restrict opportunities for new leaders to emerge, and an equal percentage argued they centralize resources and decision-making power.
Additionally, 6 in 10 also perceived that political dynasties prioritize family interests over public welfare, the same percentage argued it leads to a lack of diversity in leadership.
However, the accumulated experience of these families improves governance, as argued by 60.4% of the respondents.
The survey revealed that increased public awareness and education on voting for alternative candidates is the most effective way to curb the negative influence of political dynasties, as emphasized by a near-unanimous 95.8%.
Meanwhile, 8 in 10 perceived the need to implement economic reforms to reduce political families’ control over resources, however only 7 in 10 expressed support for enacting an anti-dynasty law prohibiting relatives from holding office simultaneously.
The Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism research revealed that 113 of 149 cities in the country are ruled by political dynasties, including Davao City with Duterte’s “unbroken control” for over two decades.
Both former President Rodrigo who is seeking reelection as mayor, and his daughter Vice President Sara, began their political careers as mayor. In this year’s midterm elections, the current mayor Sebastian is the running mate of the elder Duterte.
Meanwhile, Paolo filed his bid for reelection as the 1st congressional district representative, while his sons Omar, currently Barangay Buhangin chairman, running as the 2nd congressional district representative, and Rigo, a fresh graduate and newbie in politics gunning for the 1st district council seat.
