NOW that the 2025 Philippine elections have concluded and the dust of political campaigns has finally settled, the real work begins—not just for those elected, but for every Filipino. Voting may be the climax of democratic participation, but it is not the end of the story. In truth, democracy does not rest at the ballot box; it lives in the vigilance, engagement, and unity of the people afterward.
Hold leaders accountable, but fairly
The first step post-election is to shift from campaign mode to citizen oversight. We must move from passionate partisanship to critical, constructive engagement. We elected leaders to serve, not rule. Whether our candidate won or lost, it’s now our right—and duty—to track their performance.
Follow their promises. Did they say they’d improve healthcare? Fight corruption? Push for agricultural reforms? We should bookmark those commitments. We need to stay informed by reading reputable news, attending town halls, and understanding legislation being passed.
But in holding them accountable, we need to avoid blind cynicism. We should give space for progress, acknowledge achievements, and criticize with facts. Responsible citizenship is not about tearing down—it’s about building better.
Embrace unity without forgetting principles
Elections can divide families, friends, even entire communities. Now is the time to begin healing. However, unity should not mean silence in the face of injustice or wrongdoing. Rather, it means coming together in shared hope for the country’s future, despite differing views.
Let’s not label every criticism as “bashing” or every supporter as “blind.” Dialogue must replace derision. It’s possible to be united and still be critical; it’s possible to support the government while also demanding better.
Watch local governance, not just national headlines
While national figures dominate the news, we need to remember that local officials—mayors, councilors, governors—impact our daily lives more directly. Did our mayor promise to provide housing for the homeless? Did our barangay captain pledged to improve safety and cleanliness?
Many Filipinos often look to Malacañang, forgetting the power in their city hall. This means we need to attend barangay assemblies and join local consultations. Our voice is louder when it echoes where we live.
Fight disinformation and demand truth
Fake news did not disappear with campaign jingles. The spread of misinformation remains a major threat to good governance and national unity. Now more than ever, we must become smarter readers and more responsible sharers.
We need to double-check sources before reposting. Support platforms that promote credible journalism. Encourage critical thinking among friends and family. Remember, in a democracy, the truth is not just a moral value—it’s a civic tool.
Participate beyond politics
Democracy is not just politics. It’s also helping our community, joining civic groups, teaching others to vote wisely, volunteering during disasters, and pushing for reforms. Change doesn’t always need a campaign poster; most of the times, it just needs a helping hand.
We also should support causes we believe in—education, the environment, human rights, and entrepreneurship. We need to build, not just complain. We need to engage, not just react. Most of all, we need to SERVE, not expect to be served.
A nation beyond elections
The 2025 elections are over, and with them ends one chapter of our democratic journey. But the story of Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental, and the entire Philippines are far from over. Our vote was a sentence in a much larger paragraph—one we write together every day with our actions, our words, and our choices.
The Philippines deserves not just better leaders, but better citizens. And that begins now—with US.
