7 Things Filipinos Should Know Before Casting a Vote

Before heading to the polls, every Filipino voter deserves to understand a few crucial realities about our country—realities that shape the outcomes of our elections and the future that follows. These are not topics often discussed in classrooms, social studies books, or even family conversations. Yet, they are among the root causes of our frustrations after every election, when hopes fade, and promises remain unfulfilled.

Surprisingly, many of these issues stem from the same source: our current form of government. This is why, even when we vote for candidates we admire, we often find ourselves no closer to a better economy, stronger leadership, or a more united society.

Here are seven key things every Filipino should know before casting a vote.

1. We Have Adopted the Wrong Form of Government

One major flaw in our political structure lies in the presidential form of government itself. In this system, our choices for the nation’s highest office are limited to candidates who are popular, wealthy, or politically connected. As a result, qualified leaders who could bring true change rarely get the chance to serve.

Even for those elected, the presidency carries what can be called “pseudo-power”—authority that appears strong but is limited in practice. Unlike genuine power that allows consistent decision-making and accountability, the president’s power is constrained by the system itself.

In contrast, countries with parliamentary governments operate differently. Members of Parliament are chosen from among elected representatives who already serve in government. The head of government (Prime Minister) is selected by peers based on performance and trust, not popularity.

If a Prime Minister fails or becomes embroiled in a scandal, Parliament can remove them through a vote of no confidence—no need for lengthy hearings, no national chaos. This allows the government to move forward quickly and efficiently.

A combination of Parliamentary and Federal systems fits the Philippines more naturally—a nation of many islands, diverse cultures, and regions with unique economic strengths. Federalism gives local governments greater autonomy, while the parliamentary model ensures that national leadership is chosen based on merit, not money or fame.

2. We Have a Flawed Science and Technology System

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) plays a critical role in building national wealth through innovation. Yet, for many Filipino inventors, the system meant to help them has become a roadblock.

Under Republic Act No. 7459, also known as the Inventors and Invention Incentives Act, DOST provides loans to inventors for the commercial production of their ideas. In theory, this sounds encouraging. In reality, many inventors end up buried in debt.

When I personally registered two utility models at the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines, I learned that DOST had previously lent millions to inventors who could not repay the loans. The cost of building a factory, hiring workers, and buying materials is far greater than the department’s loan ceiling.

Instead of expecting inventors to become entrepreneurs, DOST could partner them with business investors who can handle production and marketing. What Filipino inventors truly need is support for research and daily sustenance—a simple assurance that their basic needs are met while they develop ideas that could change lives.

Without such support, the nation loses potential wealth creators, and our brightest innovators end up discouraged or forced to work abroad.

3. We Have Church Leaders with Outdated Views

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has long been firm in defending life, basing its stance on the Old Testament commandment:

While this teaching once served a purpose when humanity was small, today’s social realities are vastly different. In a nation where millions struggle to feed large families, the phrase “increase in number” must be viewed with responsibility and compassion.

The New Testament reminds us that Jesus came to bring not condemnation but restoration—to lead people toward fruitful and meaningful lives, not merely to multiply in number.

When Church leaders refuse dialogue with lawmakers about family planning policies, they miss opportunities to promote balanced growth. Countries like Singapore encourage wealthier couples to have more children, while those with limited means are guided to plan families responsibly.

The Church, as a moral compass, could champion fair population policies—perhaps allowing more children for those who can afford education and healthcare, and encouraging smaller families among those who cannot.

History even shows that when religious leaders, such as those in 18th-century Canada, began cooperating with government reforms, their nations flourished both morally and economically.

4. The Supreme Court Is Located in the Wrong Place

The Judiciary, represented by the Supreme Court, symbolizes justice in our nation. Yet its current main office on Padre Faura, Manila, stands in an area that hardly reflects its stature.

For an institution managing thousands of cases and overseeing the careers of nearly 50,000 lawyers, the cramped, congested space does not convey authority or dignity. This may seem trivial, but symbols matter. When justice is housed in an environment of disorder, it risks being perceived as inefficient or inaccessible.

Our Supreme Court deserves a larger, more modern, and more strategic location—one that projects strength, transparency, and integrity. Instead of selling prime government land to malls and private developers, we should invest in spaces that inspire respect for justice and law.

5. Our Development Goals Have the Wrong Time Frame

The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) has launched multiple development plans, including a 25-year vision for the Philippines. While ambitious, this timeline is short compared to the 40- or 50-year plans adopted by countries that achieved genuine progress.

Nation-building is not a sprint—it is a marathon. Long-term planning ensures that even changes in leadership will not derail progress. Development goals should extend beyond political cycles and personal legacies.

Rushing toward results can lead to inconsistent priorities, half-fulfilled programs, and wasted resources. The journey of development must be patient, strategic, and continuous.

6. We Misunderstand Our Tropical Climate

We often complain about typhoons and extreme weather, but we seldom see our tropical climate as an opportunity for innovation.

Every year, the Philippines faces destructive storms, yet few technological solutions are developed locally. Some countries, like Japan, have begun designing devices that can disrupt the collision of hot and cold air that causes typhoons.

If we embraced our climate as a challenge to overcome rather than a curse to endure, we might have been the first to invent such technology—and even export it. Our location and weather patterns could have been our competitive advantage, not our weakness.

By turning adversity into innovation, we could create industries that not only protect our people but also generate national income.

7. We Are Too Influenced by Fiction Instead of Reality

The saying “life imitates art” holds true for Filipinos. Our deep fascination with fictional dramas, movies, and celebrity culture often shapes how we perceive real-life politics.

When historical events unfold, we sometimes treat them like soap operas—filled with heroes, villains, and cliffhangers—rather than complex realities that demand wisdom and accountability.

After the 1986 People Power Revolution, for instance, former President Corazon Aquino could have set conditions before allowing the Marcos family to return, such as disqualification from public office until state obligations were met. A referendum could have also been held to consult the people. Instead, the unresolved tension became a recurring “drama” in Philippine politics.

We condemn corruption and political dynasties, yet we continue voting for the same system that allows them to thrive. We admire disciplined nations like the United Kingdom, yet we resist their approach of flexibility—an uncoded constitution that adapts with time.

We have had enough historical drama. What the Philippines needs is not another episode of the same story, but a new script—written by citizens who think critically, vote wisely, and love their country more than they love fiction.

Conclusion

Like an illness that returns because it was never treated properly, our national issues persist every six years. Even the most promising president cannot heal a system that refuses to be cured.

Real change begins when voters understand the roots of dysfunction—from our wrong form of government to misplaced priorities and outdated mindsets.

So before you vote, ask yourself:

• Does my candidate support reform that lasts beyond a six-year term?

• Does this person value innovation, cooperation, and long-term vision?

• Does he or she inspire citizens to contribute their skills and knowledge for the common good?

  
  

The next time you cast your vote, remember: leadership alone cannot save a nation. But informed, visionary, and responsible citizens can.