Draft:Robert Nazal

Roberto Gerard L. Nazal Jr. is a Filipino businessman and political figure known for his controversial entry into the House of Representatives through the party-list system. He is affiliated with the Bagong Henerasyon (BH) Party-list and previously attempted to assume a congressional seat under the Magsasaka Party-list, despite questions regarding his eligibility.

Career

Business Background

Nazal is reported to have business interests in various sectors including infrastructure, mining, and consumer goods. His business ventures and financial status have drawn attention due to his involvement in the party-list system, which is intended to represent marginalized and underrepresented sectors.

Politics

In 2022, Nazal sought a congressional seat through the Magsasaka Party-list. His proclamation was contested by the party's original first nominee, Argel Joseph Cabatbat, who argued that Nazal was neither a member nor a legitimate nominee of the group. The case was escalated to the Supreme Court of the Philippines, which, in May 2024, ruled in favor of Cabatbat, disqualifying Nazal from holding office under the Magsasaka Party-list.

DV Boer Controversy

Nazal's entry into Magsasaka was reportedly connected to Dexter Villamin, the controversial figure behind the DV Boer Farms investment scheme, which had been the subject of complaints from investors and regulatory scrutiny.

Return via Bagong Henerasyon

Despite his disqualification from Magsasaka, Nazal was nominated as the first representative of the Bagong Henerasyon (BH) Party-list in the 2025 elections. His return prompted renewed scrutiny from electoral watchdogs and civil society organizations concerned about the elite capture of party-list seats, which were originally intended for grassroots representatives.

Legal and Ethical Concerns

Nazal's association with party-list groups has raised broader concerns about the circumvention of the intended purpose of the party-list system. Legal scholars and transparency advocates have cited the need for stricter nomination rules and vetting processes to prevent similar incidents. His reentry into Congress via BH, while not legally blocked, has been viewed by some as an example of how procedural technicalities can be used to bypass the spirit of electoral law.