As the nation prepares for the 2025 midterm elections, the Manila Bulletin launches Matalinong Boto 2025: Balitang Tapat Para sa Payapang Halalan, a campaign anchored on three essential pillars: facts, not fake news; peaceful elections, not violence; and respectful discourse, not mudslinging. These principles reflect the Manila Bulletin’s unwavering commitment to inform, inspire, and empower the electorate across all media platforms, upholding its long-standing role as the Exponent of Philippine Progress.

For 125 years and counting, the Manila Bulletin has served as the nation’s newspaper of record, bearing witness to the country’s defining moments – from two world wars and 14 years of martial law to the unprecedented disruptions of the Covid-19 pandemic. Through it all, the Manila Bulletin has remained steadfast, proving that responsible journalism is not just about reporting the news but shaping a well-informed and conscientious citizenry.

In today’s digital age, where disinformation spreads faster than the truth, the need for factual, verified, and unbiased journalism has never been more urgent. The first pillar of Matalinong Boto 2025 underscores the Manila Bulletin’s commitment to counter fake news with truthful and responsible reporting. Misinformation distorts public perception and undermines the integrity of elections, making it imperative for the electorate to discern credible sources from misleading propaganda.

The Manila Bulletin reaffirms its dedication to delivering accurate, balanced, and well-researched news that enables voters to make informed choices. Through its platforms in print, digital, and social media, the Manila Bulletin will continue to debunk falsehoods, verify claims, and promote transparency, ensuring that the Filipino electorate is guided by facts, not deception.
Elections are a test of democracy’s strength, and history reminds us that electoral violence has no place in a truly democratic society. The Manila Bulletin’s second pillar seeks to reinforce the call for a peaceful, orderly, and fair election process.

The right to vote is sacred, but it loses meaning when fear and intimidation overshadow free choice. The Manila Bulletin stands firm in advocating for an election free from coercion, fraud, and violence, where every Filipino can cast their vote with confidence and security. As part of its campaign, the Manila Bulletin will actively report on election-related violence and irregularities, amplify voices that promote peace, and engage with organizations and authorities working to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process.

Democracy thrives on healthy debates and diverse perspectives. When political discussions descend into personal attacks, character assassinations, and divisive rhetoric, the democratic spirit is weakened. The third pillar of Matalinong Boto 2025 calls for a return to civility and respect in public discourse.

The Manila Bulletin encourages candidates, political parties, and voters to engage in issue-based discussions, focusing on policies, platforms, and programs rather than resorting to smear campaigns. As part of this advocacy, the Manila Bulletin will provide fair and balanced coverage of candidates, facilitate meaningful conversations, and foster a media environment where opinions can be expressed without hostility.

Free elections are the lifeblood of democracy, and with them comes the responsibility of every Filipino to vote wisely. The choices we make at the ballot box will shape the country’s future, affecting governance, economic progress, and social stability.

The Manila Bulletin’s Matalinong Boto campaign 2025 is a call to action for every citizen to think critically, act responsibly, and vote conscientiously. By championing truth, peace, and respect, we ensure that our democracy remains strong, vibrant, and truly reflective of the people’s will.

As the nation marches toward the 2025 elections, let us embrace the fundamental values that define our democracy. A well-informed, peaceful, and respectful electoral process is not just an aspiration. It is a duty that every Filipino must uphold: Balitang tapat para sa payapang halalan.