We were convinced that we Filipinos already know what we expect from our administration. We want leaders that are dependable, accountable, and committed. While many of us are still suffering from the effects of the pandemic, a dazzling light shines in front of us that has the ability to change the course of our government. With elections approaching, let us begin advocating for the changes we want to see.

          Vote buying becomes an issue mainly
during elections when the candidates promise to return the favor to those who vote for them. Vote buying is a widespread phenomenon. It is usually viewed as a purely economic exchange in which the voter sells his or her vote to the highest bidder. Yet, does this view correspond to reality? What does ‘vote buying’ mean? What different forms does it take in different locales around the world?

          Vote buying is when aspiring public officials give out cash to voters especially during the campaign period in exchange for potentially securing their votes instead of letting them decide their preferred bets on their own. Let's remember that politicians who buy votes have no good intentions for the country and only look after selfish interests. Once they are elected, they will certainly amass what they shelled out for your votes. Vote-buying and vote-selling are violation under Section 261 of the Omnibus Election Code and can be punished with imprisonment, disqualification from public office, deprivation of the right to vote and fines.         

          We will build mechanisms to deal with this. But it will be a big help if we citizens,
ourselves, will report these kinds of schemes to authorities. We urge the public to be vigilant and report to authorities if they have information on vote-buying. Participating in the construction of a government is more vital than ever. We must take steps to become more involved in the country's democratic processes. Each voter has the power to form a government that is really representative of the people. Our power is manifested in our ballots. Our votes should be used to elect those we can trust to be true public servants, as it is every Filipino's right and obligation, since our actions must match our words, intentions, and ideals if the Philippines is to progress. It is our constitutional right to vote. It's much more valuable because our forefathers fought for it so that we could make our own choices about our country. As citizens of our country, you have been entrusted with this responsibility. Use it wisely, for your vote will influence the country's progress. So make the most of it! Make use of your right to vote!

It should be a time for politicians to think on what type of legacy they want to leave behind, as well as the responsibility they hold in molding the present and future of their fellow people.

The hope for the future is YOU,
The RIGHT CHOICE is your VOICE. 
VOTE CAPABLE LEADERS!!