When we talk about the Philippines finally choosing leaders based on meritocracy over popularity, we aren’t just talking about a change in the ballot; we are talking about a change in the Filipino soul. For decades, our elections have felt like a high-stakes variety show—where a famous name or a catchy jingle often carries more weight than a master’s degree in public policy or a clean track record of service.
But lately, there is a shift in the wind.
The Turning Tide: From “Sikat” to “Sapat”
The 2025 midterm elections and the upcoming 2028 cycle show a country at a crossroads. We are beginning to move away from the cult of personality toward a demand for competence. Meritocracy will truly take root in the Philippines when:
- The “Cost of Entry” drops: Currently, politics is an expensive game for the elite. Meritocracy thrives when a brilliant, honest leader from a humble background can run without needing a billion-peso war chest.
- Voter Education becomes “Voter Empowerment”: It’s not just about knowing how to vote, but understanding what a leader actually does. We are seeing a shift where voters are looking for “resumes” rather than “reputations.”
Are Millennials and Gen Z the Hope?
In a word: Yes. But not because they are “smarter” than previous generations—rather, because they are the most disruptive.
Millennials and Gen Z now make up over half of the voting population. They are the “Digital Natives” who have the tools to fact-check a claim in seconds. Here is why they are the game-changers:
- They value receipts: This generation doesn’t just listen to promises; they look for “receipts” (proof of work). They are less swayed by traditional political dynasties and more impressed by transparency and innovation.
- They are issue-driven: While older generations often voted based on gratitude (utang na loob) or regionalism, younger voters are prioritizing climate change, mental health, job security, and human rights.
- The “Cancel Culture” for Accountability: They have turned social media into a platform for accountability. If a politician fails to deliver, the youth ensure it isn’t forgotten by the next election cycle.
Progress is not a straight line; it is a tug-of-war. The “popularity” machine is well-oiled and powerful. But every time a young voter chooses a candidate based on their platform rather than their dance moves, the machine rusts a little more. We aren’t just waiting for a hero; we are waiting for a collective realization that we deserve better.
The hope isn’t just in the youth’s age—it’s in their refusal to be cynical.
