MANILA, Philippines – As the Philippines gears up for its crucial midterm elections in May 2025, the Philippine Church is urging voters to exercise discernment, warning against hate speech and fake news.   

On May 12, 2025, approximately 70 million Filipino voters are expected to participate in the midterm elections to elect members of Congress and local government officials. Over 18,000 candidates are vying for legislative, local, and regional posts, setting the stage for a highly competitive race.

Duterte vs. Marcos Rivalry

The elections are not only a significant gauge of public support for incumbent President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. but also a proxy battle between the political dynasties of Duterte and Marcos, who were once strong "UniTeam" allies. The UniTeam alliance, which propelled Marcos to power in 2022, included former President Rodrigo Duterte's daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte. However, relations between the two families have soured recently following impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte in the House over corruption and sedition allegations, and the International Criminal Court's (ICC) investigation into former President Rodrigo Duterte's "war on drugs," which led to his indictment on March 11.   

Social Media's Role in Election Campaigns

Similar to past elections, the upcoming polls are shadowed by perennial issues such as vote-buying, abuse of public funds, and the spread of misinformation. With the disintegration of the UniTeam alliance, the election campaign, which kicked off on February 11, has become highly polarized and confrontational, with social media once again playing a crucial role.

Deepfakes and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven scam calls are becoming more prevalent, and tech giants, which provide major platforms for Southeast Asia's digital footprint, lack the motivation for regulation and fact-checking.

Concerns Over Hate Speech

The Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV), a Catholic Church-based election watchdog, has voiced concerns over these issues, strongly condemning sexist remarks made by some candidates. PPCRV spokesperson Ana Singson emphasized that these incidents should serve as a "wake-up call" for all voters to choose wisely in the elections. "Voting is sacred, and we are reminded to discern and choose candidates based on core values: 'fear of God, honesty, education, industriousness, helpfulness, care for others, and love for the common good,'" she stated.   

Bishops' Pastoral Letter on Elections

The Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has also released a pastoral letter ahead of the elections, urging voters to use their voices to defend freedom and ensure the common good. In their letter titled "Care for the Welfare of Others," the bishops reminded voters that the "primary responsibility of those in public office" is "to improve the lives of especially the poor and the vulnerable among our Filipino people."

"We need competent leaders and legislators with genuine intentions to serve the good of our parishes, cities, provinces, and the entire nation," the bishops stressed.

The May elections will see contests for 317 seats in the House of Representatives and thousands of local positions. Among the candidates is former President Rodrigo Duterte, who is running for mayor of his hometown, Davao City – a move he is pursuing even while facing potential detention in The Hague.   

Duterte Runs for Davao City Mayor Despite Hague Indictment

Thousands of local positions are also up for grabs in the May elections. Among the candidates is former President Rodrigo Duterte, who is running for mayor of his hometown, Davao City – a move he is pursuing even while facing potential detention in The Hague.   

Despite strong criticism over the arrest warrant, President Marcos appears to be on track to consolidate his power in these midterm elections.

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