SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union (PIA) – As La Union’s newly elected officials have already been proclaimed, the participation of vulnerable sectors in the 2025 midterm elections stands as a critical step in nation-building.
With 554,274 registered voters, including senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and others facing social and economic challenges, the elections have once again highlighted the importance of inclusive democratic participation in shaping the future of the nation.
For Romeo Abuan, a PWD from Brgy. Tanqui in San Fernando City, voting is more than a right—it is a civic responsibility that demands perseverance despite the barriers he faces.
Abuan, who arrived alone in a wheelchair at his voting precinct, shared his determination to vote for a leader who would serve the community with compassion and integrity.
“I am happy because I was able to vote for the candidate I want—someone I know will truly serve and care for our community,” Abuan said, reflecting on the effort it took to fulfill his civic duty.
Despite dealing with personal health challenges, he emphasized that his commitment to the electoral process was unwavering.
Abuan’s story is just one example of how people from vulnerable sectors are actively contributing to nation-building.
His actions demonstrate how individuals, regardless of physical or health challenges, can engage meaningfully in the democratic process.
For him, participating in the elections is about contributing to national progress, a right that should never be set aside.
Echoing this sentiment, Lorna Ramirez, a senior citizen from Brgy. San Jose Sur in Agoo also spoke about the importance of electoral participation in shaping the country’s future.
“Participating in the elections is very important because the future of the Philippines depends on it,” Ramirez remarked, emphasizing the significant role that every vote plays in determining the future of the nation.
Her husband, Ferdinand Ramirez, underscored the need to select capable leaders who can address the challenges facing the country.
“We have a lot of problems. We really need someone who can help,” he added, reminding voters of the importance of electing leaders who can navigate the nation’s issues effectively.
These voices of the elderly and PWDs resonate across the country, demonstrating that vulnerable sectors are not passive participants in the democratic process but active contributors to the nation’s progress.
Their participation is essential for fostering a truly inclusive democracy.
Lawyer Alipio Alonzo Castillo III, provincial election supervisor, highlighted the importance of voters’ understanding of their power.
“We are not passive spectators in nation-building. We are active players. Let us not simply sit and watch or complain and yet do nothing. Instead, let us do our jobs,” Castillo urged.
His message reinforces the idea that democracy thrives when every citizen, regardless of their status or background, engages with the electoral process.
The results of the 2025 elections in La Union are not just a reflection of the candidates chosen but also of the collective responsibility of all voters in determining the direction of the nation.
“Speeches alone do not solve problems. Action will always speak louder than words,” Castillo concluded, reminding voters that their active participation is what will drive real change.
As the newly elected officials take office, it is important to recognize that the elections have been a shared responsibility between the leaders and the electorate.
The active involvement of vulnerable sectors like PWDs and senior citizens in the electoral process serves as a powerful testament to their commitment to shaping the nation’s future.
Their contribution, one vote at a time, is a significant step toward building a more inclusive, empowered, and resilient Philippines. (AMB/CCMT, PIA La Union)
