While the dirty and violent elections will not solve the problems of the youth and the people, the electoral process can still be considered an important part of the youth and peoples’ struggle for reforms and change in government.

Electoral participation is one of the democratic rights of the youth and the people. It is an opportunity for the youth and the people to choose who they think genuinely represent their interests within the government.

It is an opportunity to maximize the narrow space the youth and the people are allowed within the government and elect their parties which advance the new politics of hope, struggle, and change.

It is also a chance for the youth and the people to present their interests and demands due to the condition that politicians are approaching them to court their votes. Politicians are being pushed into discussing and making stands on issues the youth and the people are facing. Here, the youth and the people can recognize which politicians are possible allies in advancing their interests.

What is the youth’s role in the elections?

The youth comprise a huge social force. There are an estimated 26 million (15-34 years old) youths, or more than 40% of the total population. The youth are the pag-asa ng bayan and tagapagmana ng bukas.

The role of the youth in our history is undeniable. From the time of foreign invaders up to the ouster of corrupt and abusive presidents, the youth have advocated meaningful social change. With their boundless energy and youthful minds and bodies, they become victorious in their struggles for important reforms.

This elections, the youth’s call for important reforms in the government will be heard again. With their electoral participation, the youth will continue the good it has started, ang magandang simula.

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