by Bren Billiones | 07 March 2025

STA. MESA, Manila – “Despite the changes in the process of elections in the country … it is automated now, the same challenges to democracy and elections still exist today.”

Taking stock of the short documentary “Tupada ’92: The Philippines in the Year of the Elections,” the panel composed of its director Fruto Corre, DLSU professor Atty. Erin Tañada, FNF Philippines program manager Yanyan Araña, and Ninoy and Cory Aquino Foundation executive director Kiko Dee talked about the parallels between the 1992 Elections (the first elections under the 1987 Philippine Constitution) and the current political climate in Tanghalang PUP Theater, 01 March.

Before a crowd of around 400 students, faculty members, and community youth organizations, Dee emphasized the need to elect progressive leaders and groups who advocate for the welfare of the people to help achieve the dream of EDSA People Power. Meanwhile, Tañada underscored the worsening state of education in the country, as manifested by the youth’s lack of awareness of the basics of elections, governance, and civic participation.

The event was capped off with the launch of “Vovoto Va C Zelf? #YouthVote2025,” a joint project of the Center for Liberalism and Democracy (CLD) and FNF Philippines that aims to engage the youth in discussions on the electoral process, its impact in democracy, making informed electoral choices, and mechanisms to protect one’s vote.

Join the #YouthVote2025 discussion via Telegram: t.me/VovotoCZelf

Promise of EDSA

EDSA People Power Revolution, a years-long fight against a dictator which culminated in a three-day peaceful protest, marked the dawn of renewed democracy, promising a more inclusive and responsive governance. One of the reforms under the 1987 Philippine Constitution is the appointment of sectoral representatives to the Congress.

However, political patronage and regional loyalty has shaped the Partylist system to be an extension of political dynasties and clans. For the 2025 Midterm Polls, CLD, in their recently concluded multisectoral assembly held in Tondo, Manila, introduced Panatang Malaya, Matao, Makabayan (Panata)—a call among political aspirants and sectors to work in harmony to champion ethical and transformative leadership.

Panata, a social contract, outlines a shared agenda of bringing social justice at the forefront, emphasizing the commitment to active participation in the elections and vote protection. Former human rights commissioner Leila de Lima, highlighted the need to consult with the sectors to craft meaningful, realistic, and sustainable legislation.

Panatang can be accessed online thru: bit.ly/Panata2025