To dynasty slayers

By Michael Henry Yusingco, LL.M

If you have decided to run for public office without the backing of a political dynasty, you have already taken one of the bravest steps in politics. For decades, dynastic politicians have treated government like an inheritance, passing down positions as if they were family heirlooms. They control vast resources, political networks, and the narratives that shape elections. But let’s be clear: political dynasties are not invincible. They are not inevitable. A few brave souls have proven that they can be slayed in the electoral arena.

Many independent aspirants hesitate to run because they think they are isolated. That is exactly what dynastic powers want you to believe. But millions of Filipinos are tired of political families treating public office as their cash cow. Many communities are looking for reform-minded individuals to support. Dynasty slayers do not have to fight this battle alone. There are ways that ordinary citizens, experts, civil society groups, and media can help you. For 2028, just target unseating the incumbent dynastic member of Congress.

Communities can pool their resources to help you build a campaign team. It may not match the billions of dynastic incumbents, but it can be powerful when grounded in genuine volunteerism. As a non-dynastic aspirant, communities will likely see you as the way to improve politics and governance in the country.  A modest, well-organized network of supporters can outmatch a bloated political machine. In fact, a solid grassroots effort will be enough to trounce dynastic candidates for the House of Representatives.

Political communications experts can help you learn how to craft your message, communicate clearly, and engage effectively with different sectors. Many are willing to share their knowledge for free or at minimal cost. Current communications technology will allow you to widen your reach without breaking the bank. Anyway, you do not need an expensive PR machine yet to speak to voters—you just need clarity and authenticity for now. Note that Gen Z and Millennials voters are already skeptical of dynastic politics.

Civil society organizations can create spaces for you to meet the public. Forums, town halls, and community dialogues allow you to bypass the traditional gatekeepers of power and talk directly to voters. People respond to personal engagement more than to billboards. Community assemblies will be an advantage because you are not a stranger to them. You can build a formidable constituency by doing as many of this as you can. An authentic support base in the community will also be beneficial once you are in office.

Media, particularly local media, can help amplify your voice. They can give you the platform to explain your programs, your vision, and your difference from dynastic incumbents. A well-articulated message delivered consistently can resonate deeply, especially among younger voters who are looking for authentic leadership. Social media is an asset, but free radio and television coverage will be a big boost. Being a dynasty slayer is newsworthy. So, shining a spotlight on you will just be journos doing their job.

Remember that dynasties may have money and machinery, but you have something they cannot replicate—credibility. You are not burdened by the sins of political clans. You can speak about reform without baggage. This credibility is your greatest political capital. In a political environment where trust in traditional politicians is eroding, your trustworthiness is a huge edge. If used well, it can be more powerful than money.

The road ahead will not be easy. Dynastic incumbents will use all the dirty tricks in their playbook to overwhelm and outspend you. But they cannot crush a movement rooted in a deep-seated desire to change the untenable status quo. Communities are ready to work with those who stand up to slay their dynastic incumbents. If enough of you step forward now to battle in 2028, the perception of invincibility surrounding political dynasties will begin to crack. And once it cracks, more dynasty slayers will follow.