Philippine Election Tips: Vote Smart, Not Cheap

Bordeaux, France

Tomorrow is Philippine Election Day!

This is our chance to take part in shaping our country’s future. Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, voting is a powerful act—and one that we should never take for granted.

To the youth, especially first-time voters: this is your moment. Use your voice. Don’t just go with the hype or the trending names. Study the candidates. Know their platforms. Look at their past actions—not just their promises. Vote for someone who truly deserves to lead.

Let’s talk real talk.

It’s no secret that some candidates still offer cash in exchange for votes. OK, fine—if someone hands you money, and you didn’t ask for it, then that’s on them. Take it if you must, call it a “blessing,” but don’t let it control your vote. Once you’re inside that booth, it’s your decision. Vote with your heart and conscience.

And remember: that money they’re giving out? That’s not “free money.”

That’s the people’s money. OUR money.

If it didn’t come directly from government funds, then best believe—they’re going to find a way to get that money back once they’re in office. Real talk, hurts, but it’s true. No one invests millions in a campaign without expecting something in return. So think twice before selling your vote for short-term gain and long-term regret.

Also—here’s my advice on how to select the candidate to vote for:
• If they’re running for re-election, look back. Remember the good things they did during their last term. Did they fulfill promises? Did they help the people?
• If they’re a first-time candidate, research their background. What’s their experience? Are they qualified? Do they have a heart for public service?

And don’t forget this: Last election, millions of Filipinos were deceived by the promise of P20 to a kilo of rice. Look where that brought us. This time, don’t be idiots. Don’t fall for empty promises and sugar-coated lies. We’ve seen how words don’t always turn into action.

Let’s also be kind to one another. We may have different choices, but we’re still one people. After the votes are counted, we’ll still be living side by side. Let’s choose leaders, not saviors. Let’s choose progress, not propaganda.

So tomorrow, vote. For your future. For your family. For truth. For our country.