Unmarried couples, partners not exempt from dynasty banMANILA, Philippines — The proposed ban on political dynasties will not spare unmarried couples or domestic partners, as long as they share a common household, Sen. Risa Hontiveros clarified yesterday. Hontiveros said the bill’s definition of a dynasty extends beyond civil or church marriages to close potential loopholes. Hontiveros, who chairs the committee tackling the dynasty bills, said the ban applies even to officials who enter into a relationship while already in office. “The flow of wealth or the influence, it is no longer transferred that far,” Sy said, suggesting that relatives in the fourth degree could be considered separate households. However, Manuel Bernas of the Model SK Network countered that in the Philippines’ “family-centric” culture, the ban must extend to the fourth degree (first cousins) to be effective.

Source: Philippine Star February 16, 2026 16:33 UTC