A single legislative district failing to meet the minimum signature requirement could invalidate the entire Dapat Isa Lang people’s initiative for an anti-political dynasty law, putting pressure on organizers to secure support across all congressional districts, not just build a large national tally.
Eleven business, civic, professional and election watchdog groups warned of the hurdle in a joint statement on Nov. 4, urging Filipinos to support the petition and help secure signatures in every district.
Under Republic Act No. 6735, an initiative proposing national legislation must obtain signatures from at least 10 percent of registered voters nationwide, including at least 3 percent of registered voters in every legislative district.
“A large national total cannot cure a local shortfall,” the groups said.
The requirement means strong national support will not be enough if organizers fail to meet the threshold in even one district. The campaign must therefore reach communities nationwide, particularly areas where signature gathering remains insufficient.
The signatories include the Management Association of the Philippines, Financial Executives Institute of the Philippines, Institute of Corporate Directors and Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting.
The coalition framed the proposed law as both a governance and economic issue, arguing that entrenched political family control weakens accountability, restricts opportunities for new leaders and erodes investor confidence when personal connections take precedence over merit.
It urged organizations to organize signature drives in barangays, schools, workplaces, churches and other community venues, prioritizing districts that are lagging.
The groups also cited a Supreme Court ruling that, in their reading, affirmed Congress’ mandatory duty to pass an anti-dynasty law, despite nearly four decades of legislative inaction.
They urged citizens to review the proposed measure at d1l.org before signing the petition.
“Public office is a public trust—not family property,” the organizations said.
