A Glimpse of Democratic Renewal

By Michael Henry Yusingco, LL.M

The 82% voter turnout in the midterm elections has taken many by surprise. It is a resounding sign of democratic engagement—especially in an era of political cynicism. But beyond the raw numbers lies a deeper political tremor: the emerging political assertiveness of Millennial and Gen Z voters. 60% of the electorate have not merely shown up; they have offered a glimpse of what democratic renewal might look like given decades of domination by entrenched political dynasties.

At face value, the data reveals a striking trend. When provided a genuine choice, Filipinos are now inclined to reject dynastic candidates. This repudiation is not merely rhetorical or symbolic; it reflects an electorate increasingly willing to turn against oligarchic control, if the conditions allow for it. The message is clear: the problem is not apathy, but the lack of viable alternatives. And Millennials and Gen Z voters are conveying a sobering cry for help to civil society.

Understandably, there is eagerness now to channel this generational agitation into organized, sustained political action. But some groups lean towards directing this political energy to win in 2028. This is not a good idea because the truth is, defeating political dynasties will not happen in 2028. Nor in 2031. Possibly not even in 2034. And worse, to fall into the trap of focusing on low-hanging electoral fruits in the short term would be to reinforce the very system that allows dynastic politics to thrive.

Electoral excitement, if untethered to long-term organizing, will only reproduce personality-driven politics. It is seductive to believe that one charismatic candidate or a single “clean slate” can undo decades of institutionalized corruption. But that is magical thinking. Instead, we must devote ourselves to the hard, unglamorous work of civic education, grassroots mobilization, and political institution-building. This is how we convert voter turnout into political transformation.

So, how should civil society respond to this challenge? It should internalize Article XIII, Section 16 of 1987 Constitution: “The right of the people and their organizations to effective and reasonable participation at all levels of social, political, and economic decision-making shall not be abridged.”

It is time for this mandate for participatory democracy at every level to be taken seriously. Civil society organizations (CSOs) must do more to provide platforms that allow people—not just the elite few—to shape public discourse and policy. This means organizing regular, non-performative public forums where citizens can articulate concerns, deliberate on solutions, and engage with public officials in a respectful but candid manner.

It is crucial however, that these forums must avoid spectacle and instead prioritize substance, humility, and the discipline of listening. The youth’s demonstrated appetite for volunteerism can be a powerful engine for these efforts—but it must be cultivated strategically, without co-opting their energy for tokenistic ends. The paramount objective of these engagements is to build a formidable constituency to drive the implementation of long-term reforms.

Political education must be tied to the issues that matter most to everyday life. Obviously, CSOs cannot realistically work on every problem facing the nation. But for starters, they can dedicate time for these areas of concern: the country’s worsening illiteracy crisis, the urgent need for early childhood interventions, and the chronic failures of solid waste management. Given the still smouldering political climate, it would be optimal to tackle the non-controversial kind of issues first.

Millennials and Gen Z voters have shown a glimpse of how democracy can be revitalized.  Sectoral groups, student organizations, and business associations must take up the mantle and create spaces where the political imagination of young Filipinos can flourish beyond elections. While voting remains essential, it is not sufficient. What is needed is organization. 60% of voters have shown they are willing to be change-makers. The only question left is whether civil society can nurture their resolve.