History of Elections in the Philippines

Early Elections

• First Republic: Elections began under Malala's constitution.
  • Voting was limited to wealthy males.
• First Presidential Election: Held on September 16, 1935.
  • Winner: Manuel Rojas became the first President of the Philippines.

Key Elections and Milestones

• 1949 Election: Elpidio Carino won the presidency.
  • His administration was marked by widespread corruption.
• 1937: Women were granted suffrage.
• 1940: Formation of the Commission on Elections.
• 1978: First parliamentary election held.
• February 7, 1986: Snap elections held due to President Marcos' struggle to control the populace.
  • This event was pivotal in the People Power Revolution.
  • Resulted in the downfall of Ferdinand Marcos and the rise of Corazon C. Aquino.

Snap Elections

• Definition: An election called earlier than scheduled.

Characteristics of the Philippine Electoral System

• Mixed Electoral System: Combines plurality and proportional representation.

Major Issues in the Electoral System

1. Elitism and Personality-Oriented Politics: Favoring individuals with political machinery, wealth, or dynastic affiliations.
2. Disenfranchisement: Citizens unable to vote due to missing names on voter lists.
3. Corruption and Campaign Finance: Ongoing issues affecting election integrity.
4. Weak Implementation: Challenges in enforcing electoral laws.

Importance of Voting

• Voting is crucial for individual expression on important issues.
• Each vote can significantly impact electoral outcomes.
• Not voting allows others to make decisions on your behalf.
• Every vote has the potential to enact positive change.

Voting Structure in the Philippines

• Each voter has two votes in the House of Representatives:
  • 80% of seats from single-member districts.
  • 20% from the party-list system.
• Voters can vote for a party list organization, which focuses on the party rather than individual candidates.

Duties and Responsibilities of Public Servants and Citizen Voters

Public Servants

• Provide governance to ensure public welfare.
• Protect individual rights and societal security.
• Offer various services and maintain public property (e.g., roads, cleaning infrastructure).
• Act as role models and inspire good societal behavior.
• Mediate disputes impartially as a neutral entity.

Citizen Voters

• Participate actively in elections to voice concerns and influence government decisions.