The Invisible Mass

Abstract

Founded on clientelism, Philippine politics was crafted to pass a single political corridor, none other than the formation of clans and dynasties more powerful than political parties and ideologies. In a patron-client relationship, the exchanges of favors transcend generations of voters and politicians laying the foundations for perpetual indebtedness. It is in this endless stream of favors —sought and gained— that the politicians and the masses, form a reservoir of dynastic bonds and obligations. Competition, as an essential feature of democracy, manifests itself in granted favors and welfare provisions among power-wielders, transforming the elections into a dole-out contest for local elites. Political kindness breeds an enduring image of good statesmanship and public service. Through interviews, this qualitative study seeks to create a solid understanding of political participation in Aklan's political environment. The data were collected from a congressman, a vice governor, board members, mayors, and key informants. The interview transcripts were coded and subjected to analysis in order to learn more about the nature and customs of political engagement in Aklan. There were twenty (21) responders in total for the study. Finally, this research proposes the different forms of political dynasties and their distinct characteristics. It recommends a cordial reception of all forms of political dynasties except the failed dynasty and argues that prohibiting the appearance of a political dynasty through the passing of the Anti-Dynasty Bill (ADB) is unjust, inhuman, and undemocratic.