Empowering over 1,160 students, faculty, and staff to engage critically with pressing national issues, the Ateneo de Zamboanga University (AdZU) hosted a Public Forum on Political Dynasty and the Signature Campaign Launch advocating for electoral reform. The forum and campaign strengthens AdZU’s commitment to SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), while fostering civic awareness, active participation in governance, and collective responsibility in nation-building.
Held on March 16, 2026, at Multi-Purpose Covered Courts 1 (MPCC 1), Salvador Campus, the event was spearheaded by the Social Development Unit, through the Ateneo Peace Center, Ateneo Center for Leadership and Governance, Ateneo Center for Culture and the Arts, AdZU Formation Unit, Simbahang Lingkod ng Bayan, HIRAYA Initiatives for Change and Progress, and student volunteer, showcasing collaboration and the power of shared action.
HIRAYA Initiatives for Change and Progress Executive Director Atty Carlo Africa, led the discussion, guiding the participants through the realities of political dynasties in the Philippines, their societal costs, and the collective responsibility to address them.
Following the forum, attendees participated in a signature campaign supporting the “Dapat Isa Lang Act,” a People’s Initiative Anti-Political Dynasty Bill. AdZU served as one of the pilot testing sites for the nationwide campaign organized by the Koalisyon Kontra Dinastiya, ahead of its official nationwide launch in April. The campaign empowers citizens to engage actively in shaping policies that uphold fairness, accountability, and inclusive governance.
Through this, the AdZU community continues to stand in solidarity with initiatives that advocate for equity, justice, and meaningful participation in governance.
Para sa amin, dapat isa lang, dapat iba naman, para tayo naman,