ZAMBOANGA CITY (PIA) – The Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) and Ateneo de Zamboanga University (ADZU) are taking significant steps to promote civic engagement and informed voting among the youth ahead of the 2025 midterm elections.
WMSU, through its University Student Council (USC), held a candidates’ forum recently at the university gymnasium where about 1,500 students attended to discuss the importance of democratic participation and to provide them a platform to directly engage with local candidates.
“Let’s break the stereotype that when you’re young, you shouldn’t be involved in the discourse of politics. When you’re young and you don’t know about politics, the more you should understand politics,” said Ahmad Mundoc, WMSU student council president.
He urged young voters to be vigilant against misinformation, especially on social media. “Let’s not trust sensationalized Facebook posts. Look at reputable, fair sources. Don’t believe things at first sight at bumoto ng matalino. Vote wisely and vote for those who are wise,” he said.
Meanwhile, ADZU, in partnership with the Commission on Elections (COMELEC)-9 and the United Front for Honest, Orderly, and Peaceful Elections (UF HOPE), launched a special election series titled “The Voices of Zamboanga: A Local Candidate’s Interview.”
The initiative, which will be officially released on April 21 via ADZU’s social media platforms, offers voters an opportunity to learn more about their local candidates and their platforms through in-depth, prerecorded interviews.
“Especially for the youth, that is basically the reason why we have to come up with this kind of activity,” said Dr. Mario Rodriguez, director of ADZU’s Social Development Unit.
“We wanted the youth to be informed. Their decision this coming election has to be well-thought. It’s not just simply by popularity, but in terms of how these candidates or their choice will be able to serve the community,” he added.
A special preview of the interviews was held on campus prior to the digital release. The interviews focused on pressing local issues and encouraged candidates to speak candidly about their vision for Zamboanga. (EDT/MLE/PIA9-Zamboanga City)
