CABANATUAN CITY – The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is urging the youth to vote for leaders capable of addressing pressing social issues in the upcoming National and Local Elections on May 12.
During a virtual youth forum, Office of the Provincial Election Supervisor – Nueva Ecija election assistant Anna Leah Viterbo stressed that voting is both a civic duty and a powerful means to shape the country’s future.
“Voting is not just a civic duty, it is also our chance to ensure that the leaders who will represent us can address our aspirations, not just for the youth but for the whole province or the whole country,” she said.
Viterbo underscored the importance of candidates who can craft and implement policies that respond to vital issues such as education, climate change, healthcare, and more.
“Through voting, we can hold leaders accountable for their promises and fulfill the platforms they all stated during the campaign period,” she added.
Viterbo also emphasized the crucial role of youth in elections, noting their potential to bring about meaningful change.
She urged young voters to bed informed and discerning when choosing leaders. She stressed the importance of understanding each candidate’s platforms, plans for the community, and track record of public service.
In addition, she reminded them to verify information posted on social media to combat fake news and disinformation, ensuring a fair and informed voting process.
For his part, Aaron Lacambra, a student leader from the Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST), said the youth have the power to influence the direction of the nation.
“It is crucial that we must be educated on this national event. We must be educated about the candidates’ platforms, their records, their values , and their goals for the future. By doing so, every vote we cast can truly contribute to the future of our country,” he said.
More than 120 students attended the virtual youth forum organized by the Philippine Information Agency in partnership with NEUST, COMELEC, and the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV). (MJSC/CCN, PIA Region 3-Nueva Ecija)