PCIJ

The party-list system was meant to challenge elite politics. But it has instead become a bastion of families and contractors. The Senate is now deliberating various proposals aimed at reorienting the party-list system to its original purpose. Read: pcij.org/2026/03/12/dyn…

After examining China’s influence in the Philippines, investigative outlet PCIJ comes under attack from the Chinese Embassy Read: rsf.org/en/after-exami…

Our stories grow stronger when concerned citizens reach out to us and share what they know. That could be you. If you think we missed dynastic, contractor and franchisee ties in this story, please message us, or email us at stories@pcij.org (6/6)

The Senate is now deliberating proposals to reorient the party-list system to its original purpose. Electoral reform groups and academics are lobbying for a range of proposals to revamp the party-list system. (5/6)

🧵: The party-list system was meant to challenge elite politics. But it has instead become a bastion of families and contractors.  (1/6)

THE DUTERTE DYNASTY Former President Duterte once called the party-list system an “evil” setup financed by the rich. In the midterm elections last year, the same system was used by his nephew, Harold Duterte, to get a seat in Congress. Read: pcij.org/2026/03/12/dyn…

THE MARCOS-ROMUALDEZ DYNASTY President Marcos Jr.’s relatives have used party-list seats to expand their power in Congress. These are on top of other national and local elective posts held by members of these Marcos-Romualdez dynasty. Read: pcij.org/2026/03/12/dyn…

Read the full report: pcij.org/2026/03/12/dyn… Drop us a message if you have story tips!

Uswag Ilonggo Rep. Ang is linked to contractors.

🧵THREAD: PCIJ found at least 18 party-list lawmakers who have ties to contractors. Read about them here👇🏽