THE OFFICIAL results of the 2025 Philippine mid-term elections would be out by the time this article is published. Some questions continue to linger: What if our electoral system were reimagined? What if Filipinos became discerning voters, and the political landscape was reshaped by meaningful reforms?
What if the qualifications for public office were more stringent?
Currently, many candidates ascend to power with minimal experience or questionable backgrounds. Proposals to ban political dynasties have been repeatedly side-lined by the same lawmakers who would be the first casualties of an anti-dynasty law. Just imagine this: 80% of governors, 67% of House representatives, and 53% of mayors came from political dynasties. This is based on a study conducted by the Ateneo de manila University back in 2019. Without a doubt, this has not changed at all this year and probably has gone even worse.
If those running for public offices were required to pass the country’s Career Service Examinations, hold at least a bachelor’s degree, have at least three years of relevant work experience in government, have negative police or NBI record, we might just be able to limit the wannabe honorables from the barangay level all the way to Malacañang.
What if voters, young and old, made informed choices?
Voter education remains a pressing need, as many still elect candidates based on popularity or superficial appeal rather than competence and integrity. We have seen the results of mock elections in colleges and universities all over the country. None of the senatorial candidates from Team Kadiliman and Team Kasamaan made it to the winning circle and candidates from the local political dynasties were rejected outright. Sadly, this is not replicated in the national level. It appears that the supposed informed voters are outnumbered by the masa voters who are easily swayed by a one-time ayuda than an agenda anchored on long-term reforms and good governance.
What if campaign spending were limited?
The 2025 elections saw candidates like Camille Villar and Imee Marcos spending exorbitant amounts on advertisements, overshadowing grassroots contenders. I actively campaigned for the likes of labor leaders Atty. Luke, Ka Leody and Sonny Matula, for grassroots and environmental advocates Ballon and Ramos, and for sectorial representatives Castro, Brosas, Maza and Casiño. Almost always, the response I get is “Ninu ren? Ali ku la man balu.” That is the moment when I sit down and introduce these candidates who have long been at the forefront of working tirelessly for genuine reforms in the country.
To ensure transparency and accountability, there have been calls to make the Campaign Finance Office a permanent entity and to review campaign finance laws. But over the years, no winning or losing candidate has ever been charged with any offense on early campaigning or over spending.
What if vote-buying were eradicated?
Despite being illegal, vote-buying persists, with reports of candidates offering substantial amounts to secure votes. Despite the efforts of the COMELEC’s Committee on Kontra Bigay to monitor and prosecute such offenses, erring candidates are able to circumvent the law and wiggle their way out of the cases filed against them.
What if the youth became catalysts for change?
With millions of young voters entering the electorate, their active participation and demand for accountability could drive significant reforms. I saw a video where a young student sent a Villar campaign shirt that was thrown at her during a motorcade back to the man on top of a pick-up. I could only guess that this was one voter who was tired of political dynasties or one of those affected by the inefficiency of PrimeWater. In any case, she made a strong statement.
The possibilities are vast. But for these “what ifs” to materialize, it requires a collective effort from both the electorate and policymakers. Only then can we hope for a political landscape that truly serves the people.
