Call to Reform the Party-list System
Comelec Chairman George Garcia has once again urged a thorough review and reform of the party-list system, following the proclamation of 52 sectoral groups that secured seats in the recent 2025 national and local elections. He emphasized the importance of revisiting this system to ensure it effectively serves its intended purpose.
Garcia noted, “Gaya ng anumang buhay na institusyon, ang sistemang ito ay patuloy na umuusbong. Sa paglipas ng panahon, ito’y naging paksa ng maraming hamon, pagsusuri, at reporma. At sa patuloy na pagbabago ng ating lipunan, umaasa kaming darating ang panahon na magkakaroon ng higit pang linaw, pag-unawa, at panibagong sigla sa pagpapatupad at pagsasabuhay ng layunin ng party-list system.” (Just like any active institution, the system continues to grow. As time passes, this is a topic that faces challenges, review, and reform. And as society continues to change, we hope that the time will come that there would be a clearer understanding and new vigor in implementing and embodying the purpose of the party-list system.)
Legal Framework and the Need for Review
The chairman stressed that any revision of the party-list law should respect Supreme Court rulings, such as those in the Atong Paglaum case. However, he believes the law deserves a fresh look to enhance justice and equality without undermining its legal foundations.
He explained, “Habang kinikilala natin ang mga legal na paghubog ng sistema, naniniwala rin kaming nararapat itong suriin muli – hindi sa pagbatikos, kundi sa diwa ng kababaang-loob. Umaasa kaming ang pagsusuring ito ay magbunga sa isang sistemang lalong magsisilbi sa esensya ng representasyon, katarungan, at pagkakapantay-pantay.” (While we recognize the legal framing of the system, we also believe that it is appropriate to review again – not to criticize, but in the spirit of humility. We are hoping that this review would result in a system that would serve the essence of representation, justice and equality.)
Encouraging Newly Elected Representatives
Garcia also appealed to the newly elected party-list representatives to become active partners in strengthening the system. He expressed hope that they would champion reforms to amplify the voices of marginalized sectors in policymaking.
He remarked, “Kasabay ng aming taos-pusong pagbati, tangan din ninyo ang aming pag-asa: na ang sistemang ito ay patuloy ninyong pagyamanin – at lalo pang patatagin – para sa mga sektor na marahil ay higit na nangangailangan ng mas malakas na tinig sa pagbalangkas ng mga polisiya at batas.” (Together with heartfelt greetings, you also hold our hope: that you will continue contribute to the growth of this system and strengthen for the sector that needs your loud voice to formulate policy and laws.)
Addressing Loopholes in the Party-list Law
For years, Garcia has pushed for amendments to the Party-list Law to close loopholes that allow political dynasties and power brokers to exploit the system. Such abuses often marginalize genuine representatives of disadvantaged groups, defeating the original intent of the law.
Local experts say that refining the party-list system is crucial to ensure it remains a true platform for marginalized sectors to participate meaningfully in governance.
For more news and updates on party-list system reform, visit Filipinokami.com.