Director and former Taguig City mayor Lino Cayetano posed a challenge on Sunday, October 5, saying that no member of their family should enter politics in 2028.
His remarks came in response to comments made by his older brother, Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano, who had called for all government officials to “resign” and allow a “snap election” to take place.
Alan’s comment comes amid the ongoing flood control corruption scandal, which has implicated some government officials and contractors in alleged kickback schemes.
“People have lost trust in government and government officials. Honestly, who can blame them? So here’s a thought: WHAT IF we all just resign and allow a Snap Election,” he wrote on a Facebook post on Sunday.
“From The President, Vice President, Senate, and Congress. With One Important Addition — No Incumbent From The Above Can Run For 1 [One] Election Cycle,” Alan added.
In response, Lino said that the initiative should start with their family, which is also deeply entrenched in politics.
“I support this proposal. I agree with my brother Alan and ask that we start with ourselves. Give up power. And this movement for real transformation will be a legacy our Father will be truly proud of,” he said.
“Let’s lead. The Senate will function without the Cayetanos, while Taguig has a very capable Vice Mayor and the Cayetano political party has had 15 years to run Taguig City and institute reform. Matibay na dapat ito,” Lino added.
“If you truly believe what you say, then trust and have faith that if some of the old guard step down now — it will inspire others to follow. I will support further that no Cayetano should run in 2028. Lahat tayo,” he continued.
“Hindi naman siguro ito gimmick konektado sa plano at gulo sa Senado, kundi sinserong ideya para masagot and hiling at galit ng tao. Your proposal will show the entire world that THIS GENERATION of Filipino leaders are willing to sacrifice and step aside for the next Generation, and we are ready to help them lead — NOW,” Lino further said.
Lino also shared that the idea “might be the best proposal yet,” musing that it could be the “only solution” amid the corruption in the government.
“Pero kailangan ipakita na sinsero tayo. Let go of power — then people will believe. For the Status Quo to step down MAY BE the only way to give our country a chance — baka ito lang pag-asa natin sa tunay na pagbabago,” Lino said.
“The next generation is MORE than capable — the private sector is filled with bright minds, the academe is recharged and excited, media can smell change in the air. The youth is full of energy and up for the fight,” he added.
The youngest Cayetano urged his brother to “be that one” to initiate change by stepping down from his position as a lawmaker.
“You will be remembered by all sides as someone who [laid] the groundwork for real change. Pakita natin na hindi ito gimmick na konektado na naman sa politika ng Senado at rigodon ng mga politiko,” Lino said.
Taguig City has been a significant political base for the Cayetanos, with family members frequently holding congressional or local positions, in addition to their roles in the Senate
Meanwhile, Senate President Tito Sotto III expressed concerns that Alan’s proposal for a “snap election” could cause unrest.
“We have no constitutional nor legal framework for snap elections. We will be flirting with uncertainty and chaos,” Sotto told reporters.
