Young Guns in Congress: Age Requirement for President Lowered to 35!

The “Young Guns” in the House of Representatives are taking aim at the 1987 Constitution with a proposal to lower the age requirement for candidates running for the country’s top posts.

Under Resolution of Both Houses (RBH) No. 2, those aged 35 and above would be eligible to run for president and vice president—down from the current 40. The age requirement for senators would also drop to 30 from 35.

The proposal was authored by House Deputy Speakers Paolo Ortega V and Jay Khonghun, Deputy Majority Leaders Ernix Dionisio Jr., Zia Alonto Adiong, Rodge Gutierrez, Eduardo Rama, and House Committee on Public Information Chairperson Lordan Suan.

The measure also calls for a Constitutional Convention (Con-Con) to carry out the amendment.

“More than 52% of the country’s population is aged 30 and below. The youth have long proven their talent and excellence in various fields,” the lawmakers stressed.

They also pointed out that traditional politicians have failed to significantly improve the lives of ordinary Filipinos, saying it is time for fresh leadership and new ideas.

The proposed minimum age requirement mirrors that of the United States for presidential candidates.

“It’s time for the voice of the new generation to be heard. Leadership is not about age but about compassion, vision, and the desire to serve. By opening the highest offices to leaders as young as 35, we give the youth the chance to show their energy and creativity in serving the nation,” the Young Guns added.