Tell it to SunStar: Voter awareness

By Joey Traya

The lack of voter awareness among Filipinos regarding the importance of their right to suffrage is a consequence of the widespread educational crisis. This educational crisis threatens future generations’ ability to become informed voters.

Why is voter awareness so low? Does it stem from a combination of societal and systemic issues, coupled with a failure to connect people to the importance of their role in democracy? Many people abstain from voting or engaging in elections because they feel their voices are insignificant. This sense of impotence is often rooted in years of political disillusionment, where leaders’ promises remain unfulfilled. It’s understandable that people lose faith in a system that appears to prioritize the powerful over the needs of ordinary citizens.

With elections approaching, voter unawareness remains prevalent. The disconnect between Filipinos and voter education has led to unsustainable and inequitable outcomes. Despite living in the information age, numerous individuals lack knowledge of the fundamental processes that govern their country. This underscores the need for enhanced educational programs and voter awareness initiatives to prepare future generations for active participation in the democratic process.

Many Filipinos remain uninformed about government actions. In our system of government, it’s undeniable that politicians often prioritize rhetoric over action in exchange for support. Many Filipinos continue to trade their political rights for promises and temporary benefits—not all, but a significant portion. Our vote may seem like a small price to pay, but for politicians, it is valuable enough to invest in.

It appears the Philippine educational system has inadequately equipped students, leading to widespread ignorance and a tendency to follow popular figures without critical thought, simply to exercise the right to vote.

For some, it’s a matter of survival. If politicians provide assistance, commonly known as ‘ayuda,’ they will receive support, regardless of whether the aid is beneficial or ethically sourced. This ‘ayuda’ often comes from the taxes of hardworking citizens.

Voter education is as crucial to the proper functioning of a democratic system as the electoral process itself. Neglecting voter education jeopardizes the integrity and credibility of elections, posing a severe risk to democratic institutions.

By addressing these gaps, we can cultivate a more educated and engaged populace, essential for the country’s progress. Indeed, voter education fosters a healthy respect for the democratic process, regardless of the election outcome.