MANILA, Philippines - President Benigno Aquino III supports an anti-political dynasty law though he is concerned that such measure may deprive politicians some of their rights.
Aquino, who comes from a political clan himself, said it will be difficult to have honest and genuine elections if only certain families are dominating various sectors including politics.
The President said he supports a pending bill at the House of Representatives that seeks to prevent families from holding too many positions in the government.
"Pagkaintindi ko sa kasalukuyang Kongreso meron na hong mga panukalang batas na talagang umaabante na at pati si Speaker nagsalita na pabor siya diyan sa Anti-Dynasty Bill," Aquino said in an exclusive interview with Bombo Radyo aired on Thursday morning.
He admitted, however, that such law could curtail the political rights of government officials like him.
"Ang hirap nga nito 'yung kawawa na rin kaming mga pulitiko kung tutuusin," Aquino said.
"Kapag pulitiko ka dapat bawasan 'yung karapatan mo, dapat mas mataas 'yung scrutiny sa'yo, 'di ba? 'Pag papanatili ng magandang pangalan, 'pag sa pulitiko ka, mali [ang] dynasty," he added.
Nevertheless, Aquino said he recognizes the need for an enabling law against political dynasties and he is ready to sign it once passed by Congress.