PAGBABAGO

A year ago, I wrote a column entitled “Malaise,” a word which means a state felt when one is  frustrated, helpless, being inutile, and unable to see the tangible results of an action. One feels uneasy that there is something wrong with our society for which there does not seem to be a quick or easy solution. 

But this was disrupted during the recent calamity brought by severe tropical storm Kristine that hit many areas of the country. Like in the past, our countrymen, both in government and the private sector rallied to provide the needed assistance to over 2.3 million people affected by flooding and landslides.  Over ₱32 million (as of Oct. 30, 2024) contribution was turned over to Angat Buhay and the Jesse Robredo Foundation in Bicol for the relief of the victims. 

That we have a comparatively enthusiastic electorate was shown during the high voter turnout at 83 percent or almost 56 percent of almost 66 million registered voters during the 22 national and local elections. This was the highest turnout for automated elections in Philippine history. Photos taken during election day showed voters patiently waiting in line. Fifty-two percent of the total registered voters were aged 18-40, falling under the youth vote category. The voter turnout in 2022 surpassed the 81.95 percent during the 2016 elections. 
For the May 12, 2025 election, an estimated 68 million voters who will elect 18,000 officials. Twelve senators and 254 district representatives; 63 party-lists; 17,942 governors; provincial board members  and mayors and councilors. The election will also cover parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. 

The above developments in the political life of the country continue to keep our people awake. But there are disturbing signs that have become alarming over the past few years. One is the continuing rise in the number of political dynasties and the other is the rise in the number of candidates coming from the movie  industry, vlogging, and social media. 
According to Professor Julio Teehankee, many members of political dynasties maximize their three terms. It is easy for them to get re-elected because of their incumbency. And if you are elected, you have all the resources of the state. You have the pork barrel and all sorts of projects to show your constituents. The longer you stay in power, the more likely you will pass it on to your relatives.

The Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) law and Bangsamoro Electoral Code define and prohibit political dynasties. However, these laws only cover the SK and Bangsamoro parliamentary elections. 

Roy Cabonegro in “Dynasties, Disruptions and Dark Forces:  The Unseen Battle for the 2025 Philippine Elections,” documented the “return of seasoned politicians” as a defining trend and the re-entry of experienced politicians who had stepped away from the limelight. This is particularly evident in the provinces. This is also true for the party-list system where a total of 160 party-list groups are vying for 63 seats. This system, which was intended for marginalized groups, is being hijacked by political elites.  Another critical factor is the influence of external forces particularly the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOS). New and progressive movements have entered such as the “Alternatibo,” an alliance that is positioning itself as a credible alternative as it emphasizes reforms, social justice, and anti-corruption. 

  
The battle for 2025 appears exciting  because of the entry of colorful sectors. But to the concerned Filipino, the question is:  How would these trends affect the future of democracy, social justice, and power-sharing?  ([email protected])