The impact of our midterm elections

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HE midterm elections in 2025 will have a significant political impact on the Philippines, shaping the country’s governance, policy direction and power dynamics.

Why?

Midterm elections often serve as a barometer of public sentiment toward the incumbent government. The outcome of the 2025 midterm elections will reflect voter satisfaction or dissatisfaction with the current administration’s performance. A significant shift in political power, such as a change in the control of legislative seats or local government positions, could signal a mandate for change and influence policy priorities moving forward.

Policy agenda and legislative priorities

The composition of the legislative branch following the midterm elections will impact the government’s ability to pass laws and implement policies. If new lawmakers are elected who represent different political parties or ideologies, the legislative agenda may shift to reflect their priorities. This could result in debates on key issues such as economic reform, social welfare, infrastructure development and environmental protection.

Checks and balances

A diverse and balanced legislature is essential for maintaining checks and balances in a democratic system. The 2025 midterm elections will determine the strength of opposition parties and independent voices in holding the government accountable. A robust opposition can help prevent the concentration of power in the executive branch and ensure transparency and accountability in governance.

Regional and local dynamics

In addition to national implications, midterm elections also have local and regional significance. Elections for local government positions, including governors, mayors, councilors, even barangay chairpersons, can affect governance at the grassroots level. Changes in local leadership can impact service delivery, public administration and community development. Moreover, regional disparities and local issues may influence voter behavior and election outcomes.

Political alliances and coalition-building

Midterm elections provide opportunities for political parties to form alliances and coalitions to strengthen their electoral prospects. Strategic partnerships between parties, factions or interest groups can shape the outcome of elections and future governance arrangements. The post-election landscape may see new alliances emerge or existing ones reconfigure to navigate the complexities of Philippine politics.

Community and change

The 2025 midterm elections will offer insights into the continuity or change in political trends and patterns in the Philippines. Incumbent politicians seeking reelection will face scrutiny over their track record and performance, while new candidates will present alternative visions and platforms. The electoral results will reflect the electorate’s aspirations for the future and their assessment of past leadership.

Public engagement and participation

Elections are crucial moments for public engagement and civic participation in the democratic process. The 2025 midterm elections will mobilize voters, civil society organizations and advocacy groups to exercise their right to vote and influence political outcomes. Public dialogue, voter education and electoral monitoring efforts will contribute to the integrity and credibility of the electoral process.

Considering the above, I can say that the present administration is facing a very challenging period, not because of capacity nor capability but more because the top decision-maker is distracted by the political circus happening around him. He must consider the advice of his inner circle, but even social media and traditional media find it a great opportunity to focus on current events which have proven to have more entertainment value than content. Commentaries and vlogs try to shape the public’s political and even personal opinions on the subject matter at hand.

Personalities who, after a time of being relegated to the dustbin, have suddenly emerged with socalled credible information. In short, they are going to run for political office in 2025.

So, expect the mudslinging disguised as self-righteousness to increase in noise, all in the “interest” of the country. Expect new factions and cliques to appear, and watch the political butterflies flit from the beleaguered political party to the one perceived to win in the 2025 midterms and henceforth, the 2028 presidential polls.

By the way, methinks this weakness of divisiveness is naturally being exploited by China in their all-out bid to confuse the Filipino citizens and divide them further. If you haven’t noticed, China slowly escalates its aggressiveness, from declaring territory that isn’t theirs, to sending ships to block Filipino vessels, to laser devices and now firing water cannons.

This well-calibrated escalation tells me that either China wants a world war, or China is very desperate with its internal economic and political turmoil, or that China wants to find out how far Filipinos will open their legs to enjoy the rape. The only advantage of the Philippines is its prudence and pragmatism but even that can incite more divisiveness among the hawks, doves and thinkers.

The political impact of the Philippine midterm elections is multifaceted and far-reaching. The outcome of the midterm elections in 2025 will impact and shape the country’s political landscape and set the course for its democratic development in years to come.