NOT JUST ANOTHER BOX TO CHECK: Think before you ink
Written by Claire Therese Ferrer • Boards by Kiefer Angeles | 7 May 25
Amidst the noise of the election, people have forgotten that voting runs deeper than what it seems to be. It is not merely ink on paper, nor just a shaded circle next to a name, or a ballot passing through a machine. It is the fulfillment of citizens’ national responsibilities.
Voting symbolizes the togetherness of the Filipino people, and it manifests through the liberty to choose a leader who will uplift the community. The people have the power to shape the future. On a matter as pressing as this, it is with utmost significance that voters understand the gravity of their choices; the whats, the whys, and the hows. It is imperative to think before you ink.
Be informed of the details of the election
Being a responsible voter always begins with knowing the basics. Awareness of one’s surroundings is very important—always be informed. First and foremost, a responsible voter must remember the triduum when approaching an election: “Which positions are up for office?”, “How does the voting process go?” (first-time voters take note), and “Where are the polls in my area?”. These three crucial questions set the framework for one’s voting process and help kickstart the election.
Know your community’s issues
Elections aren’t a one-way street. Politicians and voters alike must uphold their civil roles and tend to their duties. As a voter, being knowledgeable about the issues that surround the community helps pinpoint areas that require improvement. Being well-versed in these also allows voters to see where candidates’ priorities lie. Ask yourself: “Do they plan to address these issues? Or do they have other points of interest?”
A prevalent political phenomenon associated with elections is vote buying—a significant issue that undermines the integrity of the electoral process. This practice has been present for the a while now and often takes on various (and subtle) forms.
As of recent, the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) has received numerous petitions for disqualification of candidates from all around the Philippines on grounds of illegal campaigning via vote buying during the campaigning period.
READ: https://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/files/2025/04/dilg.jpg
Courtesy of Cebu Daily News, DILG
As responsible citizens who were given the power to vote, it is crucial to remain vigilant about such tactics in order to make smart decisions this election season. It is extremely important to establish that the Filipino electorate and their principles cannot be bought.
Get to know the candidates
Simply knowing who is running for office is not enough. There are multiple points that a voter must assess when deciding whether or not to vote for a candidate. Doing research on the candidates is imperative this election. Standalone reputations aside, it is important to conduct thorough background checks on individuals they associate themselves with as well. A responsible voter must be wary of these types of connections—especially if those individuals have questionable backgrounds.
Their backgrounds and of those they surround themselves with play a big role in their political career and are very telling of the type of service they offer to the public—as are their stances on current issues, locally and internationally.
Do they understand these issues? What are their plans to rectify them? Are their plans realistic? Or are their statements based on empty promises?
Gather as much information on the candidates as possible
Watch interviews, debates, and political events featuring the candidates. The world of politics tends to be fast-paced, which makes political figures susceptible to get caught up in the chaos. Platforms such as these showcase candidates’ abilities to work under pressure. Putting the candidates under a microscope and testing the waters on their leadership skills can truly show if they are qualified to lead.
Learning about a candidate’s platform is an essential step in the election process.. Platforms outline their objectives, values, and plans, giving citizens valuable insight on how they would govern. Having a solid foundation that is aligned with the duties and responsibilities of the position solidifies a candidate’s advocacies and place in the election.
Fact-check information
It goes without saying that not everything that we read or hear is true—especially online. Which is why it is very important to fact-check information; always make sure your sources are credible.
First, check the author or the publisher. Credibility always starts with who or what shares the information. Is this author well-known? An expert in the field? Do they seem knowledgeable on the topic and provide well-thought out insights?
Know the purpose and the tone. Does the piece stem from an objective point of view? Does the piece have a hidden agenda? Reliable sources often state the facts and leave room for its audience to form their own opinion.
Verify information. It is very easy to say something that is untrue, and it is very quick to spread. Information is very powerful and can sway public opinion on important matters. Looking for evidence and checking facts are key to combating the spread of misinformation. Moreover, the date of your resources must be recent and relevant. Confirm that they are timely and in line with current events.
Reflect and choose wisely
Once you have retained all the necessary information, you must now make a decision. Selecting a candidate who aligns with your values and puts public welfare first is crucial, as it shapes the country's future. Understanding your own stance on these matters can help you decide who to vote for more clearly. Instead of engaging in bandwagon voting, opt for choosing who you think will be able to serve the public well.
Voting process
During elections, a number of procedures must be strictly followed to ensure the smooth voting process.
Fully shade the circle next to the name of the candidate of your choosing.
Only use the official marking pen provided at the polls.
Strictly follow the number of candidates you are allowed to mark per position.
Permitted number of candidates to vote for per position:
Senator - 12
House of Representatives - 1
Provincial Governor - 1
Provincial Vice Governor - 1
Mayor - 1
Vice Mayor - 1
Partylist - 1
Election dos and don’ts
Do check your voter status. To be a nationally registered voter, there are a number of requirements that one must meet: a. The individual must be 18 years of age. b. The individual must reside in the Philippines for at least one (1) year at the place where they plan to vote, for at least six (6) months before National and Local Elections.
Don't entrust your ballot to another individual. Under the Omnibus Election Code (Batas Pambansa Blg. 881), it is strictly prohibited to allow an individual other than yourself to fill-out, cast, or handle your ballot. This compromises the integrity of a fair election, as tampering is an offense punishable by law.
Do prepare your valid IDs. To be a registered voter, an individual must be able to present a valid identification card to establish his or her identity upon filing their application or voting. Some examples of valid ID’s include: National IDs (PhilSys), Philippine Passport, Student ID card signed by school authorities, Barangay identification / certification, and any other government-issued IDs.
Don’t engage in vote-buying or “utang na loob” voting. The heart of election processes stem from integrity and honesty. Remaining objective in your decision and choosing candidates who you think have the power to enact change in the community unlocks a better and brighter future for the country.
How a piece of paper changes the world
Voters tend to overlook their influence in shaping the future of the nation. However, responsible voting is a vital part in fulfilling one’s civic duty. By making well-informed decisions, citizens improve the state of the country. A sacred right deserves an equal amount of thought and preparation put into it, as it is not to be taken lightly. Together, as a community, let us turn into fruition our shared goal of making the country a better place. Ultimately, it all starts with a pen and a piece of paper.
REFERENCES:
