House Young Guns Propose Lowering Age Requirements for Top Philippine Offices

Members of the House Young Guns bloc have put forward a resolution seeking to amend the 1987 Philippine Constitution to reduce the minimum age required to hold the offices of president, vice president, and senator. The proposed measure, Resolution of Both Houses No. 2 (RBH 2), aims to lower the age eligibility for president and vice president from 40 to 35 years old and for senators from 35 to 30 years old.

RBH 2 was authored by House Deputy Speakers Paolo Ortega V and Jay Khonghun, alongside Deputy Majority Leaders Ernix Dionisio Jr., Zia Alonto Adiong, Rodge Gutierrez, Eduardo Rama, and Committee on Public Information chairperson Lordan Suan. The resolution calls for the convening of a constitutional convention to introduce the proposed amendments.

The authors emphasized that since the 1987 Constitution's ratification 38 years ago, the country has experienced significant demographic shifts, with over 52% of its population under 30 years old. This demographic change highlights a young, vibrant, and increasingly educated sector ready to contribute to national leadership.

They stated, "The Filipino youth have proven themselves globally competitive, socially aware, and capable of national leadership," noting their expanding involvement in public service, innovation, civil society, and local government.

Highlighting international parallels, the authors pointed out that countries like the United States set the minimum age for presidency at 35. They argued that this reform would enhance youth representation, promote intergenerational leadership, and reflect the principles of inclusivity and empowerment for future leaders.

In their own words, the proponents declared, "It is time to hear the voice of the new generation. Leadership is not about age but about vision, compassion, and the desire to serve. By opening the highest offices to leaders as young as 35, we give the Filipino people a chance to be led by the energy and creativity of the youth, ready to carry the nation forward."