The May 2010 elections is almost just a month away. With all the excitement that comes with choosing who to vote for the top two positions in the country, who among us takes the time to think about the party lists? Being that the Philippines is under a "party list system," which groups our votes go to is just as crucial as any other vote.
Photo from kabataanpartylist.com
But what exactly is with the "party lists?"
The party list system is a representation of particular sectors of society in Congress. Instead of voting for a specific candidate, you vote for a group - idealy representing a marginalized group such as women, children, farmers, etc. Right now there are 187 groups in the official list presented by the Commision on Elections (COMELEC). One of which continues to fight with and for the Filipino youth.
The Kabataan Partylist is known as the first youth-oriented group to make it to the Philippine Congress. It is a national network that consists of students and youth leaders fighting for their rights as well as those of other marginalized sectors. Currently, they have Raymond "Mong" Palatino, blogger turned congressman, as their representative. He was voted into the 14th Congress during the 2004 elections.
Kabataan is known as being active in several rallies and protest actions against the government, including a recent mob outside of Robinson's Ermita regarding the Supreme Court's decision to close the case of rebellion against the Ampatuans. Known for their firm stands on issues, this group remains one of the favorites among young Filipino voters.
Over the years that the party list has been active, several celebrity endorsers have joined in raising awareness of the group's advocacies. Some of those who have campaigned for the causes of Kabataan include Angel Locsin, Dennis Trillo, Atom Araullo, and Ciara Sotto. All of these personalities are seen on several public service announcements found on the party list's Website.
With its continuous desire to get the youth's side heard in national issues, Kabataan succeeds in inviting young Filipinos to join in its advocacies. Many of today's young voters are geared towards voting for this party list. With a track record such as theirs, it may not be a bad idea.
