For every year that passes—may it be a presidential, legislative, or local unit election—one is given a responsibility to bestow his vote for a leader. This act serves as a declaration that can collectively influence the status of our state by providing awareness and the freedom of choice. As the filing of candidacy approaches, a call for registration must be taken to heart as a way to listen to the clamor of those in need and those who aspire for greater change. 

As citizens of a democratic and republican state, one of our responsibilities is suffrage. Exercising the right to vote is crucial, as it shapes both the present and future condition of our country, benefiting not only ourselves but especially the oppressed citizens whose voices often go unheard. This right opens an opportunity to pay attention to the cries and battles that are being constantly silenced by those in power. 

A responsibility comes with liabilities. Once you are registered to vote, it is within your hands to take the initiative in knowing and sharing the important considerations that will encourage your co-citizens to decide on the best election candidates. 

In an interview with FEU Advocate, second-year Psychology student Jhana Ricardo shared that through voting, she can influence other people. 

“Voting and advocating for my desired candidate would help people around me to open their eyes and be clarified on who to vote for,” she said. 

Ricardo added that by voting, people would recognize the importance of attaining their rights to help the society improve. 

With the current issues surrounding misinformation, utilizing social media platforms critically and thoughtfully can help raise awareness and provide certainty among citizens. 

Kristen Ryzelle Arriola, a second-year Medical Technology student who is actively engaging on social media, firmly believes that one way to help is by disseminating factual information through fact-checking and sharing informative posts. 

“As a student that is always active on social media, I can contribute on sharing awareness regarding [the significance of] voting and vote registration by sharing credible information of its importance on my social media platforms,” Arriola expressed. 

Along with the use of social media in sharing information comes exposure to competing viewpoints. Relying on these materials requires critical and logical thinking, which is necessary in deciding whom to vote for.  

Daena Mariel Senining, a second-year Accountancy student, urges people to be more aware as issues such as graft and corruption test our prospects towards the candidates.

“In the current year 2024, many issues have arisen that have tested my point of view with the leaders of our country. Therefore, in the upcoming election, every registered voter must be aware of their leaders' credentials, as well as their principles and empathy for both the current community and future generations,” Senining shared. 

The Accountancy student also emphasized that students and youth must use their voices to spread awareness, noting that political dynasties, vote-buying, and internal conflicts between political leaders are widespread. 

She encourages the youth to seize the opportunity to advocate for human rights and address issues whenever they have the privilege to take action. 

Meanwhile for Ricardo, knowing the significance of every vote encourages her to use her knowledge to seek the betterment of the state. 

“I am obliged to vote for the best candidate that will be good for our society… I am asked to use my intelligence in choosing… without being manipulated by other people,” she said. 

Voting expresses freedom of choice, helping people open their eyes and clarify whom to vote for. But keep in mind that for every choice we make, a life could be at stake. 

That is why third-year Psychology student Johanna Mae Magdadaro believes that voters should research and track candidates’ records to know them better. 

“Of course, their [candidate’s] experience, qualification, integrity, transparency, and their plans for our country [must be considered],” Magdadaro asserted. 

Additionally, Arriola believes that a candidate’s background plays a crucial role in choosing the most qualified individual for the position they are running for. 

“I always check their credentials and what they have done to serve the people. A candidate’s background and credentials [are] important in determining a suitable candidate as this would be enough proof that they can serve the country without being corrupt,” Arriola said. 

These factors are a few things a registered voter must consider. Being one gives you the authority to decide who leads and runs the state. That is why it is important to maximize this right for the future of the country and society as a whole. 

Currently, voter registration for the May 2025 National and Local Elections is open until September 30, 2024, as announced by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC). 

It is open to citizens at least 18 years of age and residents of the Philippines, who may register through the nearest Office of the Election Officer in their area and Satellite or Mall Registration sites. 

The 2025 Senatorial Preference survey conducted by OCTA Research from August 28 to September 2, 2024 showed that the top picks among the potential senatorial candidates were Anti-Crime and Terrorism Community and Support (ACT-CIS) Party-list Representative Erwin Tulfo and his brother, broadcaster Bienvenido “Ben” Tulfo. 

Voting not only expresses our rights but also encourages us to speak for those who are sleeping on the truth and justice. It is a wake-up call and a louder yell that compels those in power to listen and take action since, for every single vote, a voice is heard. 

- Mariah Louise Miciano
(Illustration by Alexandra Lim/FEU Advocate)