Lecture Notes: Partylist System in the Philippines

Purpose of the Partylist System

• To give voice to marginalized and underrepresented sectors
  • Targeting representation in the House of Representatives.
  • For those unable to be elected at the district level.

Issues and Criticisms

• Many system flaws exist
  • Often becomes a "money-making" scheme.
  • Lack of true representation.
  • 49 nominees in 2019 came from political families.
• Unclear definition of 'marginalized'
  • According to the Supreme Court in 2013, it's not required to represent a marginalized sector to participate.

History and Laws

• 1987 Constitution
  • Stipulates the need for a partylist system.
• Partylist System Act of 1995
  • Enacted to provide representation for underrepresented sectors.

Qualified Sectors

• Workers, farmers, fishermen, women, youth, and professionals.
• Ethnic and indigenous communities.

Implementation Problems

• Position inheritance in families
  • Positions should not be passed down.
• Lack of constituency building and political education
  • No support mechanisms followed after elections.

Important Laws Passed

• Reduction of workers' taxes.
• Increase in teachers' salaries.
• Promotion of mothers' rights.
• Improvement of communication during disasters.

Looking to the Future

• Voters play a critical role in the next elections.
  • Vigilance is vital to prevent system abuse.

Statement by Atty. Michael Mastura

• Welcoming diverse groups
  • As long as they are from underrepresented sectors.
• Critique of the current situation
  • Opposes money politics.

Conclusion

• The Partylist System should serve as the voice of the unrepresented.
• The future and integrity of the system are in the hands of the voters.