An educator has called on youth voters to carefully consider their choices for the May 12 midterm elections, especially when it comes to electing politicians from political dynasties.
During a recent media forum at De La Salle University, Professor David San Juan shared his concerns, urging students to think critically about electing individuals from families with entrenched political power.
Although he emphasized that educators cannot dictate whom students should vote for, he made it clear that they can strongly advise against voting for candidates with ties to political dynasties.
"Political dynasties are not allowed under our Constitution. There have also been many corruption cases linked to family members occupying political positions, as they often cover up for each other," San Juan said.
San Juan also encouraged the youth to join cause-oriented organizations, emphasizing the importance of collective action.
"As individual voices, we can make a difference, but it's limited. When we unite with others who share similar goals, we can be more effective in promoting the advocacies we believe in," he added.
A study by Ateneo de Manila University revealed that political dynasties make up over 70 percent of Congress, with the Philippines poised to see sibling pairs in the Senate.
If pre-election surveys remain accurate, neophyte Senator Raffy Tulfo will soon be joined by his brothers, Erwin and Ben, in the Senate.
Both brothers are ranked first and second in several surveys, including those by Pulse Asia and Social Weather Stations.
Additionally, Las Piñas Rep. Camille Villar may join her brother Mark in the Senate if she wins. Re-electionist Pia Cayetano and incumbent Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, as well as Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada and Senator JV Ejercito, are other sibling pairs involved in politics.
The trend extends to local politics as well, with the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism reporting that at least 113 out of 149 city mayors come from political dynasties, including the Dutertes in Davao City and the Binays in Makati.
The 1987 Philippine Constitution explicitly prohibits political dynasties in Article II, Section 26, which states, "The State shall guarantee equal access to opportunities for public service, and prohibit political dynasties as may be defined by
Voter education as priority
Iya Trinidad, spokesperson for the National Union of Students of the Philippines, highlighted the importance of voter education in fostering critical thinking among the youth.
"It all starts here. We need to teach young people how to think critically about candidates, how to evaluate them, and how to actively participate not only in the election process but in the broader democratic process," Trinidad explained.
Beyond voting, Trinidad urged the youth to remain engaged post-election by joining organizations and participating in student governance.
"Joining organizations, running for student councils—these are significant steps that can create a lasting impact on our lives and the lives of our fellow youth and students," she concluded.
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