On May 12, 2025, the Philippines will hold its midterm elections, a pivotal event that will shape the nation's political landscape. With over 68 million registered voters, Filipinos are set to elect 12 senators, 254 district representatives, 63 party-list representatives, and nearly 18,000 local officials, including governors, mayors, and councilors. This electoral exercise serves as a litmus test for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s administration and offers insights into the country's democratic health.
The 2025 midterms are characterized by intense political rivalries and the reconfiguration of alliances. President Marcos Jr.'s coalition, Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas, aims to consolidate power by securing a majority in the Senate. Notable candidates under this banner include Benhur Abalos, Abigail Binay, Bong Revilla, Pia Cayetano, Panfilo Lacson, Lito Lapid, Manny Pacquiao, Tito Sotto, Francis Tolentino, Erwin Tulfo, and Camille Villar.Wikipedia
Opposing this coalition is the KiBam alliance, featuring former senators Kiko Pangilinan and Bam Aquino. Their campaign focuses on transparency, human rights, and social justice, aiming to provide a counterbalance to the administration's agenda. The opposition's strategy includes mobilizing grassroots support and leveraging social media to reach younger voters.Wikipedia
A significant undercurrent in this election is the deepening rift between President Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte. Once allies, their relationship has soured over policy disagreements and power struggles. Duterte's resignation from the cabinet in 2024 and subsequent public criticisms of Marcos's leadership have intensified the divide. This schism reflects broader tensions between their respective political bases and has implications for the 2028 presidential race.Financial TimesReuters
Several pressing issues are at the forefront of voters' minds:
Economic Recovery: With the country emerging from the pandemic's economic downturn, voters are evaluating candidates based on their plans for job creation, inflation control, and sustainable growth.
Foreign Policy and National Security: The Philippines' stance on territorial disputes in the South China Sea and its relationships with global powers are critical considerations.
Constitutional Amendments: President Marcos Jr.'s proposal to amend the 1987 Constitution, ostensibly to attract foreign investment, has sparked debates about potential threats to democratic safeguards and term limits.theaustralian.com.au+1time.com+1
Human Rights and Rule of Law: The legacy of former President Rodrigo Duterte's controversial drug war and ongoing investigations by the International Criminal Court continue to influence public discourse.theguardian.com+1apnews.com+1
The 2025 elections are notable for the pervasive influence of social media and digital platforms. While these tools have democratized information dissemination, they have also facilitated the spread of disinformation. Both domestic and foreign actors have been implicated in online campaigns aimed at manipulating public opinion, highlighting the need for digital literacy and robust fact-checking mechanisms.
The 2025 Philippine midterm elections are more than a routine democratic exercise; they are a referendum on the country's political direction, governance standards, and commitment to democratic principles. As Filipinos cast their votes, the outcomes will not only determine the composition of legislative and local bodies but also signal the nation's readiness to uphold democratic resilience in the face of internal and external challenges.