As the 2019 Philippine general election fast approaches, “millennials,” particularly those born between 1980 and early 2000s, have been forecasted to comprise a big chunk of the entire voting population.
As the baby boomer electorate decreases in size over the years, it is only a matter of time before millennials take over and become the most powerful group to drive elections towards actual change. With their numbers, millennials are of critical importance to elections and therefore must understand the significance of their votes in the nation’s progress.
According to figures by the Commission on Elections, younger voters account for over 45% of registered voters in the country. Therefore, as cliché as it may sound, millennials hold the future in their young hands where the nation’s fate heavily relies on the decisions they will choose to make. Every single one of their votes will count and collectively leave lasting effects on the country’s political and socioeconomic future.
With the power to change the course of governance, millennials must not neglect the importance of voting but instead exercise this democratic right of suffrage.
DILG Spokesperson, Assistant Secretary Jonathan E. Malaya, encourages young voters to get involved and vote this upcoming election.
“Do it for yourself, for your family and friends, for our country. Sabi nga nila #YOLO, you only live once. And every three years, #YOVO, you only vote once for national and local elections,” Malaya says.
The politicians elected into office and the policies they enact will affect the nation as a whole. So why not get involved? Take part, cast your vote, and let your voice be heard this election.
The Philippine general election will be conducted on May 13, 2019, where the winners shall take office on July 01, 2019.
By Kali Yantrel R. Martin
(The writer is a a 4th year student taking up Business Administration, Major in Human Resource Development Management at the University of Baguio)