Local Elitism and Political Dynasties in the Philippines

This set of vocabulary flashcards covers the definitions, historical roots, and societal impacts of local elitism and political dynasties in the Philippines based on the lecture notes.

Local Elitism

The concentration of power, wealth, and influence within a few families or clans in the politics and society of a specific locality.

Principalia

A class of local leaders and wealthy families during the Spanish colonial period who were granted special privileges.

Patron-client system

A system where aid or favors are provided by a leader in exchange for the political support or votes of the citizens.

Political Dynasty

A situation where government positions are held by members of the same family over a long period, with power passed through generations or among relatives.

Utang na Loob

A traditional Filipino cultural value of a "debt of gratitude" that often influences voters to support a politician’s family in return for past favors.

Marcos Family

A prominent political family from Ilocos Norte, maintaining influence from the 1960s to the present.

Aquino-Cojuangco

A family with significant political influence in Tarlac, often associated with the Hacienda Luisita issue.

Patronage Politics

The practice of providing aid, jobs, or projects, such as scholarships or relief goods, specifically in exchange for political support.

Weak Party System

A political environment where the family name of a candidate is more important and influential than their political party affiliation.

Article II, Section 26 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution

The constitutional provision stating the State shall guarantee equal access to public service opportunities and prohibit political dynasties as defined by law.

Simultaneous Dynasty

A type of political dynasty where multiple members of the same family hold different government positions at the same time.

Successive Dynasty

A form of political continuity where power is passed to a family member, such as a spouse or child, immediately after a term ends.

Intergenerational Dynasty

A political dynasty where power is maintained across different generations, such as from a grandparent to a child and then to a grandchild.

Checks and Balances

A system designed to prevent power abuse that often loses meaning in dynasties because family members may protect one another despite wrongdoing.

Garcia Family

A political family in Bataan cited as an example of a simultaneous dynasty with positions at provincial and municipal levels.

Roman Family

A political family in Bataan cited as an example of an intergenerational dynasty with a history of representation in Congress.

Vote Buying

A specific form of patronage politics involving the exchange of money for a citizen's vote.