President Benigno Simeon Aquino III delivers his 2nd State of the Nation Address (SONA) during the joint Senate and House session of Congress at the Plenary Hall, House of Representatives Complex, Constitution Hills, Quezon City Monday July 25, 2011. In the photo are Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile and House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte, Jr. (Photo by: Robert Vinas/ Malacanang Photo Bureau).

Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute of Technology Assistant Professor Rey Montesclaros criticized the squandering of public funds on national elections dominated by political dynasties, suggesting sarcastically that elite families might as well engage in bidding or coronation ceremonies instead.

Montesclaros argued that dynasty-dominated governance suffocates democracy and perpetuates poverty by directing government resources toward private family interests rather than public welfare.

He called on the public to unite and demand systemic electoral reforms.