The Senate Committee on Electoral Reforms and People’s Participation held its third round of public consultations on Friday at the Carlos Hilado Memorial State University (CHMSU) Alijis Campus on February 13, 2026, marking the first time discussions on the proposed “Kontra Dinastiya” bill reached the Visayas.
The measure, aimed at curbing the dominance of political dynasties, seeks to restrict the number of family members who can simultaneously occupy public office.
Senator Risa Hontiveros, Deputy Majority Leader, presided over the Bacolod session, which drew hundreds of participants from across Negros Occidental.
Sen. Risa Hontiveros presides the Senate Panel on the proposed “Kontra Dinastiya” bill at the CHMSU Alijis Covered Court in Bacolod City. She was joined by speakers from various sectors.
CIER / Joshua Ladua photos
She underscored the importance of engaging communities outside Metro Manila, stressing that regional voices must be heard in shaping national policy.
The consultation brought together a diverse mix of stakeholders, including local government officials, former lawmakers, lawyers, academics, labor leaders, and student representatives.
Joining the panel were Bacolod City Mayor Greg Gasataya; Himamaylan City Vice Mayor Justine Gatuslao; Prof. Bernaldo Eres of the University of St. La Salle; former Magdalo Partylist Rep. Gary Alejano; Atty. Jose Max Ortiz, former mayor of Don Salvador Benedicto; Atty. Jesse Suarez, former Provincial COMELEC officer; Atty. Rey Gorgonio, chairperson of the National Union of People’s Lawyers (NUPL) Negros Occidental; Priscilla Goco of Partido Manggagawa; and Ken Paolo Gilo of the Student Council Alliance of the Philippines.
President Norberto Mangulabnan, Sen. Risa Hontiveros, panel speakers, university officials, and guests pose for a photo after the public consultation.
CIER / Joshua Ladua photos
The Bacolod forum follows earlier consultations in Luzon, reflecting the committee’s effort to ensure broad regional participation in the debate. Inputs gathered from these sessions will form part of the committee’s report to the Senate, which will guide the next steps for the bill’s deliberation, according to the Senate of the Philippines.
CHMSU officials, led by President Norberto Mangulabnan and Alijis Campus Executive Director Glenn Peter Garcia, also joined the public consultation.
CIER / Joshua Ladua photos
