The registration period for candidates in the 2025 Philippine general elections officially began on October 1, 2024, and will continue until October 8, 2024. This is a critical time for political aspirants as they file their Certificates of Candidacy (COCs) at a designated venue in the Manila Hotel. The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) is overseeing this process, marking a pivotal phase in preparation for the elections set for May 12, 2025.
Key Details of the Candidate Registration
Candidates have a full week to submit their COCs, and the range of positions available is extensive. The 2025 elections will fill 12 Senate seats, 254 congressional district seats, and 63 party-list representatives, along with numerous local government positions across the country.
Total Positions Available
In total, approximately 18,271 elective positions are up for grabs in this election cycle, covering both national and local offices. This immense scope means that the election will shape the future of governance at multiple levels, with a mix of seasoned politicians and new faces expected to vie for these roles.
Political Landscape
The upcoming 2025 general elections are expected to be highly competitive, particularly as many view it as a potential proxy battle between two prominent political figures: President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and former President Rodrigo Duterte. Both leaders have significant influence over their respective political factions, and their support or opposition could heavily influence the outcome of the elections.
Voter Registration Context
As of May 2023, the Philippines had around 68 million registered voters, and that number is projected to increase to approximately 71 million by the time of the elections. COMELEC has been implementing initiatives to improve voter participation, such as the Register Anywhere Program, which allows citizens to register at various public venues across the country. This program has been a part of the ongoing effort to increase voter accessibility and engagement.
Notable Candidates Filing for the 2025 Elections
As the candidate registration period progresses, several key figures have already declared their intentions to run. These include:
- Kiko Pangilinan: A former senator from the opposition, Pangilinan aims to regain his Senate seat.
- Bam Aquino: Another prominent opposition figure, Aquino is also vying for a position in the Senate.
Allied with the Duterte camp, Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa and Bong Go are also expected to seek reelection, while former senator Leila de Lima—known for her vocal opposition to Duterte’s policies—will run for a seat in the House of Representatives as first nominee of Mamamayang Liberal Partylist.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has officially endorsed 12 senatorial candidates for the upcoming 2025 elections. This announcement was made during a political event at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City, where he introduced the slate under the banner of “Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas.”
Endorsed Candidates
The following candidates have received Marcos’s endorsement:
- Imee Marcos – Senator (reelectionist). She, however, declined to be part of the administration slate preferring instead to run as an independent.
- Benhur Abalos Jr. – Interior Secretary
- Abby Binay – Makati Mayor Pia Cayetano – Senator (reelectionist)
- Lito Lapid – Senator (reelectionist)
- Erwin Tulfo – ACT-CIS Representative Francis Tolentino – Senator (reelectionist)
- Manny Pacquiao – Former Senator
- Tito Sotto – Former Senate President
- Bong Revilla – Senator (reelectionist)
- Panfilo “Ping” Lacson – Former Senator
- Camille Villar – Las Piñas Representative
Political Context
This endorsement is significant as it aligns with the Marcos administration’s strategy to consolidate support and maintain legislative power amid a shifting political landscape, particularly with the looming presence of the Duterte family in the upcoming elections.
The endorsement includes a mix of reelectionists, cabinet members, and notable figures from various political parties, showcasing a broad coalition aimed at securing key Senate seats.
Implications
The backing of these candidates is expected to bolster Marcos’s influence in the Senate, which could be crucial for advancing his legislative agenda and preparing for potential succession plans for the presidency in 2028. As tensions between the Marcos and Duterte camps have escalated recently, this electoral strategy will be pivotal in shaping future political dynamics in the Philippines
The candidate registration period marks a crucial step toward the 2025 elections. With 18,271 positions available, a substantial voter base, and heightened public interest, this election is set to shape the future of Philippine governance. As candidates finalize their bids, all eyes are on the political landscape, which is being shaped by major power players such as the Marcos and Duterte families.
