Gut Issues Must Define 2025 Elections

A recent survey confirmed what many Filipinos already know: the real election issues are those that hit their daily lives—healthcare, education, and inflation. Yet, many candidates continue to focus on vague promises and abstract ideals rather than offering concrete solutions to these pressing concerns.

The WR Numero survey shows that 80 percent of Filipinos support Senate candidates who will prioritize healthcare funding, particularly through increased government subsidies for PhilHealth. This overwhelming sentiment highlights a glaring reality—millions of Filipinos struggle to access quality healthcare due to inadequate funding and inefficient public health systems.

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the weaknesses of the country’s healthcare infrastructure, yet reforms remain slow. Candidates must address this head-on with actionable plans, not just rhetoric.

Education follows closely as a top concern, with 67 percent of respondents backing candidates who will fix the education crisis. The Philippines consistently ranks low in global education assessments, and learning poverty remains a persistent problem.

Deteriorating learning outcomes, poor facilities, and an overburdened teaching force are problems that require more than just policy lip service.

DepEd’s struggle to implement major reforms, the shortage of teachers, and the poor state of school facilities demand urgent attention. Voters want candidates who understand these problems and have clear strategies to solve them.

Inflation or rising costs of food and basic commodities ranked third, with 54 percent of Filipinos supporting candidates who will tackle inflation. Everyday expenses continue to rise while wages stagnate, putting pressure on ordinary families. Empty reassurances will not put food on the table.

Government policies on price controls, food security, and economic stability should be the focus of campaign discussions, not mere slogans about economic growth.

Beyond these gut issues, the survey also reflects the people’s selective engagement on other political matters.

While many are vocal about moral and ideological debates—such as same-sex marriage, political dynasties, and impeachment—it is clear that their immediate priorities revolve around survival and economic well-being. Candidates who fail to recognize this will struggle to connect with voters in the coming elections.

Elections should not be a contest of who delivers the best motherhood statements. Filipinos deserve a substantive debate where candidates provide solutions to the most urgent problems—healthcare, education, and inflation. These are the issues that truly affect lives, and these should define the choices voters make in 2025.