La Union's First She in the Century: Electoral Success of Female Governors and Dynastic Persistence at the Provincial Level

Abstract

The study investigates the complex relationship between political dynasties and female representation in Philippine politics, focusing specifically on the gubernatorial level. While prior research has explored the formation of political dynasties and the presence of female representation in various contexts, there's been limited studies at the local gubernatorial level, especially in provinces dominated by established political clans. By adopting an Explanatory Case Study design and employing a mixed-method approach, the research aims to uncover whether dynastic membership affects the electoral success of women governors; and subsequently explore the mechanisms of dynastic persistence at the provincial level. The findings reveal a persistent underrepresentation of women in gubernatorial positions, despite increased participation, with dynastic membership and affiliation as primary contributors to the increased female political representation. The study uncovers that voters exhibit a preference for candidates from dynastic backgrounds due to familiarity, strategic campaign approaches, and perceived benefits from past dynastic leaders. However, while dynastic ties aid women in entering politics, they also solidify dynastic control, posing challenges to democratic practices and genuine gender representation in political spheres. Consequently, the study emphasizes the necessity to reassess policies and electoral systems to foster authentic gender representation and address the entrenched influence of political dynasties on democratic principles in the Philippines.