We, the undersigned, call on the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) to disqualify the Duterte Youth Party-list from holding any representation in Congress. Duterte Youth is a direct affront to the party-list system which was created to amplify the voices of the marginalized and underrepresented sectors in Philippine government that have long been dominated by political dynasties and big businesses. Its continued presence in Congress undermines the basic tenets of democratic representation and betrays the very principles the party-list system was built upon.

The name speaks for itself

It was never about defending the interest of the sector it claims to serve. The Duterte Youth are not representatives of the youth; they serve as an extension and mouthpiece of the Duterte family – a family whose patriarch now faces detention in The Hague for crimes against humanity, and whose most prominent member, the current vice president, has been implicated in the misuse of billions in public funds.

‘Youth’ representative only when convenient

Duterte Youth has failed to meaningfuly legislate on issues affecting the youth. They champion the corruption-ridden Maharlika Investment Fund, push for the reimposition of the death penalty, and aggressively campaign for Mandatory ROTC, while millions of Filipino youth suffer under a commercialized education system, unlivable wages, and suppressed civil liberties. 

Masquerading fascism with defending national interests

Duterte Youth has also used its platform to red-tag progressive organizations and youth leaders, branding critics as “terrorists” during election season–violating COMELEC guidelines, endangering lives, disenfranchising progressive candidates and voters alike. Its nominees, drawn from the military and police, are figures from institutions historically responsible for widespread human rights abuses in the country. 

No public official who claims to serve the people yet weaponizes fear and misinformation should ever hold public office. 

NO TO FAKE PARTYLISTS!

DISQUALIFY DUTERTE YOUTH!

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