BY ANGEL LYN ABRAHAM
THE RIGHT to vote is one of the fundamental rights of Filipinos, as stated in the 1987 Constitution. In the upcoming 2025 midterm elections, all registered voters have the privilege of choosing their preferred candidates.
However, is it enough to vote simply because we can? Many voters today make their choices based on a candidate’s popularity, often influenced by social media. Unfortunately, they overlook the importance of researching a candidate’s background and platforms. This raises a crucial question: Is this the true essence of an election?
Should we cast our votes without fully understanding the candidates and their qualifications? Elections are not just about selecting familiar names; they are about choosing leaders who are capable, trustworthy, and committed to the country’s progress.
Many Filipino voters continue to choose leaders based on popularity rather than merit. Instead of conducting a thorough background check, they rely on what they see on social media. When a candidate is frequently featured in the media, people often assume that their popularity equates to competence.
This trend has led to the election of celebrities such as Robin Padilla, Lito Lapid, Bong Revilla, Vilma Santos, Nash Aguas, and other well-known personalities who entered politics primarily because of their fame. Unfortunately, many voters support them without scrutinizing their platforms or qualifications.
The consequences of uninformed voting are severe. It has contributed to ineffective governance and long-standing issues such as corruption and poverty problems that our country continues to struggle with for decades. If we want real change, we must break this cycle.
To overcome this issue, we need to be wise voters. It is our responsibility to look beyond popularity and carefully evaluate candidates based on their qualifications, track record, and vision for the country. An informed vote is the key to a better future.
To make informed decisions in elections, we must take the time to research a candidate’s credentials. This includes examining their policy proposals, evaluating their past performance in public office, and assessing whether they have a strong track record of leadership and integrity.
Additionally, engaging in local community discussions about the candidates can help us gain diverse perspectives and deeper insights into their qualifications. By taking these steps, voters can make well-informed choices and determine whether a candidate truly deserves their vote.
Effective governance begins with us—the voters. Leaders do not gain power on their own; they are elected by the people. If we want capable and trustworthy leaders, we must be responsible in choosing them.
Once again, we must be wise in selecting our candidates. The future of our country depends on the decisions we make at the ballot box. As responsible citizens, we must go beyond popularity and take the time to examine each candidate’s track record, policies, and vision for the nation.
Let us remember that an informed vote is a powerful vote. By making well-researched decisions, we contribute to a better future for our country.
_____________________________________________________________
Angel Lyn E. Abraham is a third-year political science student at the University of Cebu-Main Campus. This piece is part of their course subject on journalism.
