Have you been called "choosy" when it comes to dating? That's okay!

Perhaps you are simply trying to be extra careful when choosing a lifetime partner. You desire a partner with whom you can share your life and count on in difficult times. One whom you can put your trust.

My question now is, are you as choosy in casting your vote during an election?

As preparation for the upcoming Election 2022, as part of the Bachelor of Public Administration, I attended a webinar on "Training on Electoral Participation and Voter's Rights. Here are some of my key takeaways that I want to share with you:

To vote is to exercise your right

But aside from being your right, it is also your duty and responsibility to vote." Ang kapangyarihan ng gobyerno ay galing sa taumbayan." The voters will determine the leaders who will bring us to a better future, support our interests, and represent our ideas. Hence, I had registered myself in the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) to exercise my right and fulfill my duty. We can do our role as a citizen by registering to vote and be a critical voter. You should not cast your vote just because they have the most catchy jingke or because they are famous. Ensure that the one you are electing is worth your ballot and someone who can uphold good governance.

Every singke vote matters, so if you are not a regustered voter yet, you still have a chance to register. The registration was extended. To be eligible, you must be:

A) at least 18 years old on the day of election

B) a citizen of the Philippines

C) a resident of the Philippines for at least a year

D) not disqualified by law

To register, you must present a valid ID and set an appointment for biometrics capture and form submission. "No Bio, No Boto". If you don't have any valid ID, you can still apply for registration by being identified under oath by:

A) any registered voter of the precinct where you will register

B) any relative up to 4tg civil degree

Remember, through non-participation, despite being elegible in the upcoming election, we might be toleraring apathy, heartlessness, corruption, and inefficiency in our country. You cannot be non-participative and then complain that our country is being run by "clowns". You have the powet to alter the situation. I will not be telling here which candidates you should specifically vote for. However, it is essential to note that we should cast our vote on the person who advocates for tge viewpoints of the citizen as a whole and who can craft new public policies that are responsive to the need of the citizens.

Make an informed decision. Vote wisely.

I wrote it because the election in our country, Philippines, is approaching. I really hope that Philippines gets to have officials who can uphold good governance. Lord, bless Philippines.