A DAY before millions of Filipinos cast their votes, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. urged the public to safeguard the democratic process and elect rightful leaders.
Marcos, in a social media video, emphasized the significance of voting as both a fundamental right and a crucial civic responsibility.
“Mga kababayan, ngayong halalan, gamitin natin ang ating karapatan at gampanan ang ating pananagutan bilang mamamayang Pilipino (Fellow citizens, this election, let us exercise our right and fulfill our responsibility as Filipinos),” Marcos said on Sunday, May 11, 2025.
“Isang pagkakataon ito para marinig ang boses ng bawat isa at maipahayag ang mga pangarap na mahalaga sa inyo at sa bayan (This is an opportunity for every voice to be heard and to express your dreams for yourselves and the nation),” he added.
Acknowledging differences in political views, the President emphasized that democracy thrives on diversity, but warned against division and violence.
“Iba’t iba man ang ating paniniwala, ‘yan ang diwa ng demokrasya. Pero ang pagkakaiba ng opinyon ay hindi dapat mauwi sa gulo o pananakot. Ipinaglalaban natin ang kinabukasan sa balota. Hindi sa lansangan. Hindi sa karahasan (Our beliefs may differ -- that is the essence of democracy. But differing opinions must not lead to chaos or intimidation. We fight for our future through the ballot -- not on the streets, not through violence).”
Marcos urged voters to support candidates who are honest, compassionate, and capable of public service.
He also called on candidates to respect the decision of the electorate.
“Tapusin natin ang halalan ng may dangal at katahimikan (Let us end this election with dignity and peace),” he said.
The President appealed for unity to ensure clean and peaceful elections.
“Magtulungan po tayo upang mapanatili ang isang maayos, mapayapa, at makatarungang halalan (Let us work together to uphold an orderly, peaceful, and just election),” he said.
Marcos has declared Monday, May 12, a non-working holiday nationwide to allow Filipinos to exercise their rights to vote. / PNA