Davao — The "Dapat Isa Lang" (D1LM) movement officially arrived in Davao City on June 30, 2026, marking a significant moment for local political discourse. Held at the Ateneo de Davao University, the launch brought together students and advocates who are rallying behind a proposed law to restrict political families to a single elective position. This signature drive seeks to gather 110,000 local signatures as part of a national goal to introduce structural reforms by the 2028 election cycle. It is a bold, grassroots-led initiative that challenges the current political landscape by advocating for merit-based leadership and institutional accountability.
Reclaiming Public Office as Public Trust
At the heart of this campaign is the assertion that public office should be a field for diverse voices rather than a legacy for a select few. Organizers argue that by limiting relatives to one national or local post and enforcing a cooling-off period, the nation can foster a healthier democratic environment. The movement’s leadership, composed of seasoned legal experts and civil society groups, views this signature campaign as an instrument for structural change. Their message is clear: for democracy to remain vibrant, the doors to leadership must be open to those who serve based on merit and fresh ideas.
Students at the Forefront of Change
The choice of Ateneo de Davao University as the launch venue highlighted the role of youth participation in shaping the city's future. Students were the first to queue to add their names to the petition, signaling a growing desire among the younger generation to have a greater stake in local governance. This active engagement from the academe provides the movement with both momentum and a platform for critical debate on the current structures of power. By turning a simple signature into an act of civic engagement, these students are positioning themselves as vital partners in the pursuit of a more equitable society.
Looking Toward the 2027 Referendum
With the goal of reaching seven million signatures nationwide by October 15, the D1LM organizers are treating this as a long-term commitment to reform. They are targeting a referendum in the first half of 2027 to ensure that, if passed, these limits could be effectively implemented by the 2028 elections. The campaign is actively expanding across Mindanao, with satellite launches in Zamboanga and Surigao to ensure the voice for reform is truly regional. As the movement grows, it promises to remain a central topic of discussion in local halls of power, challenging constituents to envision a future defined by systemic renewal.
