As election season kicks off in Baguio City, there’s a growing buzz around the filing of certificates of candidacy or COCs, and preparations for the upcoming polls.
In the most recent episode of Pag-Usapan Natin ‘To, hosted by Ikit ng Bayan and Manang Lucy Exconde, Baguio City Election Officer Atty. John Paul Martin, shared crucial information on the election process, voter registration, campaign strategies, and the role of technology in ensuring transparent and efficient elections.
The salient points raised during the discussion provide a clear and comprehensive guide for voters to choose their candidates wisely come May 2025 in Baguio City.
Voter registration and participation
Voter registration recently closed, with around 20,000 new voters added to Baguio’s list, 60% of whom are first-time voters. However, approximately 17,000 voters were deactivated for failing to participate in the most recent elections, leaving the city with a total of around 169,000 registered voters.
The voter turnout in the previous election was around 80%, which is lower than expected. To boost participation, the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) is conducting voter education campaigns in schools and barangays, encouraging citizens to exercise their right to vote and choose leaders who will help shape the future of their community.
Atty. Martin emphasized that voting is not just a right but a peaceful tool for change. By casting their votes, Baguio residents can influence the political landscape of the city and hold leaders accountable.
Filing of candidacy
The filing of COCs for those running in Baguio City has commenced, with candidates vying for key positions such as congressman, mayor, vice mayor, and councilor. According to Atty. Martin, there are about five groups interested in these positions, some with full slates and others comprising independent candidates.
This step is essential in the election cycle, as candidates submit their intention to serve the city and its residents. For voters, this is an opportunity to start evaluating their choices by researching the background, platforms, and qualifications of each candidate.
Choosing the right candidates—qualities to look for
One of the key takeaways from the podcast is the importance of evaluating candidates based on their qualifications, character, and track record. Atty. Martin highlighted the “4Cs” that voters should consider when making their choices:
- Competence: Does the candidate have the skills and knowledge required for the position? Can they implement laws, draft resolutions, and serve the public effectively?
- Character: Is the candidate honest, trustworthy, and morally upright? Their character will influence how they will lead and serve the community.
- Conscience: Does the candidate have a strong sense of right and wrong? Are they making decisions based on what is best for the people, or are they serving personal interests?
- Confidence: Is the candidate capable of representing the city with confidence, making decisions, and leading by example?
Voters are encouraged to apply these criteria when assessing candidates, so we select leaders who are qualified, compassionate, and committed to serving us, the people.
Voter education campaigns and the importance of participation
COMELEC is actively working to educate voters about the election process and the importance of making informed decisions. Through school-based campaigns and barangay general assemblies, COMELEC is teaching voters about the significance of leadership qualifications and the impact of their choices on the future of their community.
Voter education campaigns also cover how to choose a candidate based on their plans and platforms. This effort is aimed at empowering citizens to make thoughtful, informed decisions that will benefit the city in the long term.
Voter participation is critical to a healthy democracy, and Atty. Martin encourages all registered voters to not only participate but also encourage their peers to do the same.
Introduction of new voting technology
New automated vote-counting machines will be introduced for the upcoming elections. These machines rented from a South Korean provider promise to reduce glitches and improve the efficiency of the voting process.
The old government-owned machines often required refurbishing which, in turn, resulted in higher maintenance costs. Renting new machines for each election cycle not only cuts costs but also ensures that the technology is up-to-date.
Despite some concerns about automation and potential hacking, Atty. Martin assures voters that these machines are not connected to the internet during the voting process. They only transmit data online for a few minutes after votes are cast, making it nearly impossible for hackers to intervene.
To further build trust in the system, the COMELEC plans to hold public demonstrations of the machines in barangays and schools to show voters exactly how the system works and what to expect on election day.
The role of AI in election campaigns
The discussion also touched on the growing role of artificial intelligence or AI in election campaigns, particularly on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram. While AI can be a powerful tool for reaching voters, there are concerns about its misuse for spreading disinformation and deep fakes.
To combat this, COMELEC has partnered with Meta (the parent company of Facebook) to monitor content and prevent the spread of false information during the campaign period. They’ve also formed a committee, Katarungan, Katotohanan, Kapayapaan (KKK), to tackle misinformation and uphold the integrity of election-related discourse online.
Atty. Martin encourages social media users to be vigilant and report suspicious or false content. Voters must stay informed, fact-check information, and avoid spreading unverified news to maintain a fair and transparent election process.
The power and responsibility of voters
As the election draws closer, Baguio residents need to remember that their votes have real power.
Voters are essentially the HR department of the government, deciding who gets the “contract” to serve them for the next three or six years. Candidates must prove themselves worthy of this trust, and it is the responsibility of voters to hold each one accountable.
By making informed choices, practicing due diligence, and participating in the democratic process, the people of Baguio can ensure that their votes count and their voices are heard this coming May 2025.