Kabataan ang pag-asa ng bayan – this widely known Filipino saying captures the potent role of the youth as not only inheritors of the nation but also as dynamic agents of change, particularly within the sphere of electoral politics and democratic governance. The country has a large youth population, which gives the youth great potential to get involved in politics, be politically aware, and actively participate in elections to influence the country’s future.
[A]re they indeed regarded as the national hope? Or are they simply laughed at by adults who believe they know nothing?
Young people are adept at disseminating information, debating significant political concerns, and organizing support for particular candidates or policies that would advance the nation using digital technologies and social media. These young Filipinos fight against corruption, promote openness and responsibility in the government, and show political awareness, thus producing more moral and efficient governance. They not only absorb political information passively, they examine, question, and interact with complex political issues, suggesting a change toward more educated and discriminating voters. Nevertheless, are they indeed regarded as the national hope? Or are they simply laughed at by adults who believe they know nothing?
When we cling to our preconceived ideas about how different generations view politics, it gets in the way of creating a space where everyone can engage in meaningful debate.
While many recognize the youth’s potential to change things, some older people look down on them, undervaluing their political opinions and involvement. Some conservative perspectives dismiss the youth’s political engagement as naive or misinformed, citing a lack of experience or understanding of complex political realities. Some adults oppose the young people’s growing political involvement since they fail to understand that young people often provide innovative ideas and fresh approaches to problems that have persisted for years. When we cling to our preconceived ideas about how different generations view politics, it gets in the way of creating a space where everyone can engage in meaningful debate.
Instead of seeing the value in sharing insights across generations, some adults tend to uphold a system where younger voices are often overlooked or dismissed. These biases highlight the urgent need for a careful assessment and a genuine effort to cultivate a more inclusive political landscape, where various voices are heard and truly valued as essential parts of a thriving democracy. This condescending mindset stifles the voices of young people and perpetuates a cycle of political apathy, making it harder for the youth to engage in democratic activities. It’s high time we dismantle these obstacles and foster an environment where everyone’s voice, regardless of age, is acknowledged and respected.
The active involvement of young Filipinos in elections has a notable effect on their older relatives, encouraging them to think carefully and vote for candidates who align with their values and interests. This ability of the youth to sway their elders’ voting choices highlights the significance of intergenerational conversations and sharing knowledge during elections. Their influence can come from various sources, such as access to information, participation in political activities, and their knack for expressing their opinions clearly. Thankfully, some parents make it a point to discuss political candidates and their platforms with their children, helping them make informed voting decisions. This shows just how much the youth can shape the political perspectives and actions of their older family members, reflecting their broader impact on the political scene in the country.
Filipinos yearn for good governance, transparency, and accountability, yet often fail to vote wisely for the country’s greater good. The more we tolerate dishonest and incompetent leaders, the more we normalize corruption, ultimately contributing to our suffering. We all bear the consequences of our votes; thus, the youth are stepping up to ensure that older generations recognize the high stakes involved, just as the youth have. How can we build a nation of hope and dreams when its foundation is stained by corruption and incompetence?
