MANY of the early legislators in the Philippines were highly educated individuals, often trained lawyers who were capable and qualified lawmakers. In contrast, today’s standards appear to have shifted, with fame and popularity often outweighing academic and professional qualifications. This change raises concerns about the level of preparedness among those seeking legislative positions.

     Should we consider requiring a mandatory seminar or training program before candidacy filing, especially for positions in the lawmaking body? Suppose professionals in other fields must pass board exams or undergo licensing procedures. Why are lawmakers, who hold the power to shape the nation's laws, exempt from any form of skill verification or preparation?

     According to Section 3, Article VI of the 1987 Constitution, “No person shall be a Senator unless he is a natural-born citizen of the Philippines, and, on the day of the election, is at least thirty-five years of age, able to read and write, a registered voter, and a resident of the Philippines for not less than two years immediately preceding the day of the election.”

     The criteria of being “able to read and write” (same for the President, Vice President, and Members of the House of Representatives) was designed to ensure that no one is denied a chance to serve solely because of their social or educational background. 

     The late Senator Jose Diokno summarized the arguments in removing the literacy requirement. Diokno says that the requirement confuses literacy with intelligence and learning with wisdom. A Filipino, even if illiterate, does not cease to be a Filipino and should not be denied the opportunity to run for public office simply because of poverty or lack of formal education.

     Constitutional expert Hector De Leon also notes that the qualification for being 'able to read and write’ is meant to prevent discrimination based on literacy. 

     Although the constitution intends to promote inclusivity and give a broad opportunity to run for public office, that ideology shouldn’t come at the cost of competence, especially when the job involves making laws that affect over 116 million Filipinos. Public office, particularly in the legislative department, is not just a right but also a privilege that carries immense responsibility. Lawmakers must understand the intricacies of lawmaking, policy evaluation, and national issues. Merely meeting the constitutional minimum is insufficient.

     An example of this was during the 2019 midterm elections when newly-elected Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa expressed his lack of knowledge about the job in an interview:

     “Ewan ko kung meron bang seminar d’yan, or ano bang training d’yan para matutuhan ko kung paano gawin ‘yung batas, kung paano gawin ‘yung trabaho sa Senado. Kung merong gano’n I’ll take that opportunity para matuto ako.”

     This is not humility—it is a red flag. How can someone be entrusted with lawmaking when they lack a fundamental understanding of the job? Inefficiency in holding a public office, especially in the legislative branch, narrows down the chance of progressiveness of the country. Being a Legislator is a position that demands preparedness, intellect, and the ability to make sound, informed decisions. Dela Rosa’s admission exposes the disturbing reality that anyone who meets a few surface-level criteria, regardless of capability, can find themselves in the Senate or House of Representatives.

     This is merely a call to balance opportunity with accountability. A short course or certification in basic governance, lawmaking, and public policy could be a fair and accessible requirement. It would help ensure that every candidate, regardless of educational background, to be at least efficient to perform effectively once elected.

     While the “able to read and write” qualification gives more Filipinos a chance to run for office, the real measure of service should be preparedness and competence. Lawmaking is not a platform for fame or personal ambition, but it constitutes a duty to the people, the republic, and the nation they embody.

     Ultimately, Filipinos deserve lawmakers who are not just eligible but truly capable.