In 2022, millions of Filipinos voted and delivered a landslide victory to Bongbong Marcos and Sara Duterte, giving them more than 30 million votes and a powerful mandate. The result showed unity and strong public participation. It proved that the people can move as one during elections.
But numbers alone do not protect freedom.
A landslide can unite, yet it can also silence. When one political force becomes too strong, fewer people question decisions and debate grows weaker. Winning by a large margin shows support, but it does not guarantee good leadership. The real test begins after the election.
Since that victory, the country has faced rising prices of rice, fuel, and other basic goods. Families tighten their budgets, and students struggle with daily expenses. These problems demand clear solutions. Citizens must ask if leaders are truly easing the burden or simply offering words.
Issues over confidential funds show why public attention matters. Lawmakers raised questions, journalists investigated, and citizens spoke out. Public money must always be explained. When people stop watching, oversight fades and freedom slowly weakens.
Talks about charter change make vigilance even more important. Changing the Constitution can reshape politics and the economy for years to come. Such decisions require informed citizens. Silence allows power to expand without challenge.
Social media now shapes political views at great speed. Information spreads quickly, and misinformation spreads just as fast. Citizens must check facts, read carefully, and think before sharing. Democracy today depends not only on ballots but on critical minds.
Institutions like the Commission on Audit (COA) and the Supreme Court (SC) act as safeguards, while journalists and civil society push for transparency. Their strength depends on citizens who stay alert and demand answers. When the public disengages, even strong institutions weaken.
Freedom does not rest on how many voted. It rests on how many remain watchful after the ballots are counted. Participation brings leaders to power, but vigilance keeps them accountable.
The 2022 election showed the strength of numbers. The greater challenge is keeping that strength alive between elections. When citizens stay informed and speak up, democracy survives. When citizens go silent, power grows unchecked. Numbers can win elections, but only active citizens can protect freedom.
Written by S. Imp, Insight PH
S. Imp, Insight PH is a dedicated campus journalist and contributor. Their insightful writing sparks meaningful conversations and keeps the community informed.
