Cartoon by: Jairus Kristan Samudio
Published by: Marino Peralta
Date Published: March 24, 2025
Time Published: 10:15 AM
Being politically aware knows no age. Regardless of who you are, you have the right and the responsibility to take part in governance, ensuring that your voice will be heard to shape the future before it's too late. Political engagement is not just an option, it is a necessity. However, many dismiss the idea of youth involvement in politics, claiming that they are "too young" and lack political knowledge. But the real question is, does age really define one's political awareness and capability? Or is it just an excuse to silence the voice of youth who dares to challenge the system?
In the Philippines, youth participation in political activities, especially voting, has become more prominent despite criticisms from older generations. According to data compiled by GMA Integrated News Research, there are 21.87 million Gen Z voters (born between 1997 and 2007), making up 28.79% of the voting-age population. This is a significant increase from 13.11 million in 2022. Additionally, Millennials and Gen Z voters make up about 68% of the registered voters for the 2025 elections. [1]
This data alone proves the significant power young voters hold for the upcoming election. More youth voters mean a higher chance of breaking the corrupt system and achieving a better tomorrow for the country. Yet, despite this, many still believe that politics should be left to older, "more experienced" individuals while the youth should simply focus on their studies. Many young people encounter dismissive statements such as "I am older than you, so I know better,” "You're too young to understand politics so just focus on your studies,” and "Young people today just love interfering in matters they don’t understand.” These statements not only undermine the younger generation's capability, but also overlook the fact that the fresh perspectives of younger generations challenge outdated systems and drive meaningful change. One of the biggest misconceptions is that age equates to wisdom. However, age is just a number and just because you're older, doesn't mean you are smarter. Young people today have greater access to information, are highly educated, and are more politically aware than ever before.
Moreover, voting is a fundamental political right. As long as a person meets the legal voting age, they have the right to exercise this power. In fact, the Department of Education (DepEd) has even encouraged young voters to participate in the upcoming elections, recognizing their “potential power” to influence the country’s future. [2]
It is important for the youth to have a voice in shaping both today’s and tomorrow’s politics. Taking action, no matter how small, will make a difference. Instead of sitting and doing nothing, youth should take part in political activities, conduct background checks, fact-check information, and care about national issues. These traits make younger generations more responsible and critical voters compared to many older individuals. They refuse to be deceived by false promises and know how to stand for what is right, ensuring that the country does not keep making the same mistakes over and over again. Younger generations being politically aware, conducting research, and educating others about responsible voting will greatly influence the future of the country. So, let’s break the "You're too young” stereotype and prove that youth participation in political activities should never be underestimated. With that being said, the youth must continue to speak up, take action, and claim their rightful place in shaping the nation. After all, if not us, then who will? If not now, then when? As Dr. Jose Rizal once said, "Ang kabataan ang pag-asa ng bayan.” The future is not in our hands, we are the future and we are the present. So let's rise, take action, and be the catalyst for good governance.
REFERENCES:
[1] GMA Integrated News. (2025a, February 9). Millennials, Gen Z make up 63% of voting population. GMA News Online. https://www.gmanetwork.com/.../millennials-gen-z.../story/
[2] Arra Perez, ABS-CBN News. (2024, November 3). DepEd: Youth vote has “potential power” to influence elections | ABS-CBN News. ABS-CBN. https://www.abs-cbn.com/.../deped-youth-vote-2022-elections
No comments:
Post a Comment