Senators Risa Hontiveros and Kiko Pangilinan led the final leg of the nationwide public consultations on the proposed “Kontra Dinastiya” bill on Thursday, February 19, 2026, as the Senate brought its push for anti-dynasty reforms to Northern Mindanao.

Hontiveros, who chairs the Senate Committee on Electoral Reforms and People’s Participation, presided over the hearing and stressed the urgency of passing an enabling law to implement the 1987 Constitution’s provision prohibiting political dynasties. She said the measure seeks to “level the political playing field” and ensure equal access to public service.

Pangilinan, a longtime advocate of electoral reforms, echoed the call, emphasizing that political power should not be concentrated in a few families. He underscored the need for safeguards that promote fair competition while respecting the people’s right to vote.

The consultation gathered hundreds of stakeholders from across Northern Mindanao, including local officials, legal experts, church leaders, civil society groups, members of the business sector, and youth representatives.

Participants shared varying views on how political dynasties should be defined and regulated under the proposed legislation.

The Cagayan de Oro forum marked the final stop of the committee’s consultation series, following earlier sessions in Pasig, Laguna, Bacolod, and Bulacan.

Lawmakers are expected to consolidate recommendations from the regional hearings before submitting a committee report for plenary deliberations in the Senate.