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Your Vote. Our Future.

a module for citizen-voter education

Training Manual 2003

Prepared by the Institute for Political and Electoral Reform (IPER) with the support of Consortium on Electoral Reforms (CER) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

Adopted by the 2003 National Voters’ Education Summit.

CCEERR

Institute for Political and Electoral Reform (IPER) Training Manual/ 2

Training Manual for the IPER Core Citizen-Voter Education Module I. Introduction This module and manual serves to contribute to the efforts at effecting matured and informed political attitudes and decisions of Filipino citizen voters. As a generic citizens education module, it covers the broader aspects of the political and electoral system, human rights and governance. Contents of this module are the basic concepts and ideas to be considered in creating messages according to various forms of communication for the education campaign. The manual translates the strategy in which the trainers will give the course. II. Manual This manual will provide trainers with the general concepts for citizen-voter education course, the references, the proposed training methods to be employed for the course, and the guidelines in handling each topic and method. The contents of the manual are also outlined in the training schedule. III. Course Objectives The course aims to raise the level of awareness of the electorate especially the disadvantaged sectors towards a responsible, democratic, and sustained participation in electoral and governance processes. Specifically, this citizen-voter education module aims to: -acquaint the electorate with the basic concepts of democracy and the role of elections in democracy and governance; -stress the importance of one’s vote; -encourage voters to participate in the whole electoral and governance process; and -eventually effect informed political choices among the citizen voters. IV. Course Content The module contains the basic concepts for the citizen-voter education. Part I gives a note on the right of suffrage and a brief history of elections in the Philippines. Part II advances the concepts of elections and democracy and various mechanisms for people’s participation in such set-up. Part III discusses the government structure and electoral process and system and outlines the duties and responsibilities of both the public servants and the citizen voters to watch out for. A review of electoral procedures and processes is also done in Part III, which aims to guide voters in the actual conduct of elections. Part IV deals with the existing voter behavior and elections: attitudes and decisions of the electorate; and of political candidates; dynamics and mechanisms employed by stakeholders in the electoral and political processes. Finally, Part V shares a vision of ideal government, citizen-voter and political leaders and enumerates action points for the citizen voters before, during, and after elections. V. Methodology A mix of lectures, discussions, small group sharing, game, and role playing will be used for this citizen-voter education course. Open forum will only be done after the small group sharing and after the last lecture has been delivered. During the open forum, the participants can clarify and thresh out issues (with the trainer/s as well as with the other participants) that may have arise from the lectures, discussions, and sharing. To encourage active involvement from the participants, game, role-playing and group sharing on the observations, reflections and experiences will be conducted. VI. Participants This course is designed for citizen-voters from class C, D, and E. VII. Duration The training shall be conducted for four (4) hours.


Activity 1: Introduction to the Training

Duration: 5 mins.

Materials: IPER Brochure, Profile of Partner Organzation, Course Objectives

and Contents

Prodedure: The trainer introduces the sponsor organization/s (i.e. IPER and partner/s), the objectives and contents of the training, and gives a background on IPER’s YOUR VOTE OUR FUTURE Module. Reading: Introduction The development of the IPER’s YOUR VOTE. OUR FUTURE. Citizen-Voter Education Module serves as a contribution to the call for new politics based on political and electoral reforms. Recognizing that education plays a key part in raising the political consciousness of the electorate towards a responsible, democratic, and sustained participation in the electoral and governance processes, IPER initiated the development of materials in response to such needs. After a series of consultations with civil society stakeholders on political and electoral reforms, IPER came up with a core module that aims to provide a broader coverage on the right of suffrage, the political and electoral system and governance. Such reforms are aimed at broadening the genuine participation of the grassroots in politics and governance, ensuring universal suffrage, assuring clean, honest and fair elections, and developing a politically mature citizenry. These are further directed towards making Philippine elections a more meaningful political exercise through an enlightened electorate.

Course Objectives The course aims to raise the level of awareness of the electorate especially the disadvantaged sectors towards a responsible, democratic, and sustained participation in electoral and governance processes. Specifically, this citizen-voter education module aims to: -acquaint the electorate with the basic concepts of democracy and the role of elections in democracy and governance; -stress the importance of one’s vote; -encourage voters to participate in the whole electoral and governance process; and -eventually effect informed political choices among the citizen voters. Course Content The module contains the following concepts for the citizen-voter education.

Part I The Right of Suffrage History of elections in the Philippines Part II Elections and Democracy Part III Government Structure Electoral System and Process Part IV Voter behavior and Elections Part V Guiding Vision Action Points for Citizen Voters


I. The Right of Suffrage and Brief History of Philippine Elections Objective: At the end of this session, the participant shall be able to understand the basic right of suffrage and gain knowledge on the history of elections. Activity 2: Lecture on the Right of Suffrage

Duration: 5 mins.

Materials: Readingon Right of Suffrage; Annex 1 – Matrix of Article 21, UDHR; Art.25, ICCPR; and Art. V, 1987 Philippine Constitution Procedure: The trainer discusses the provisions of UDHR, ICCPR, and the 1987 Constitution pertaining to the right to vote. Reading: The Right of Suffrage The human right to vote is embodied in three instruments: Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR); the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights; and in the 1987 Philippine Constitution. The Philippines is governed by these three documents which similarly mandate universality of the right; equality in access to public servce; and secrecy of votes.

Article 21 (1-3) of the

Universal Declaration of Human Rights

(December 10, 1948)

Art.25 (a-c) of International Covenant on Civil and Political

Rights, (March 1976)

Art. V, Sec. 1-2 of The 1987 Philippine

Constitution

1 Everyone has the right to take part in the government of his country, directly or through freely chosen representatives. 2 Everyone has the right to equal access to public service in his country. 3 The will of the people shall be the basis of the authority of the government; this will shall be expressed in periodic and genuine elections, which shall be by universal and equal suffrage and shall be held by secret vote or by equivalent free voting procedures.

Every citizen shall have the right and the opportunity, without any of the distinctions mentioned in article 2 and without unreasonable restrictions:

(a) To take part in the conduct of public affairs, directly or through freely chosen representatives;

(b) To vote and to be elected at genuine periodic elections which shall be by universal and equal suffrage and shall be held by secret ballot, guaranteeing the free expression of the will of the electors;

(c) To have access, on general terms of equality, to public service in his country.

1 Suffrage may be exercised by all citizens of the Philippines not otherwise disqualified by law. 2 The Congress shall provide a system for securing the secrecy and sanctity of ballot as well as a system for absenteoe voting by qualified Filipinos abroad. The congress shall also design a procedure for the disabled and the illiterates to vote without the assistance of other persons. Until then, they shall be allowed to vote under existing laws and such rules as the Commission on elections may promulgate to protect the secrecy of the ballot.


Activity 3: Lecture on the History of Philippine Elections

Duration: 10 mins.

Materials: Matrix of Elections in the Philippines; Reading on History of Elections in the Philippines; Visual Aids Procedure: The trainer briefly presents elections in the Philippines during the pre-colonial, colonial, pre-martial law, martial law, post martial law, and the current periods. Emphasis should be given on the major political and election events, contenders and results in each period.

Reading:

History of Elections A system of election was first practiced in the Philippines during the Spanish and American colonial period. But the process was only limited to male voters and was more of a ceremonial rather than a genuine democratic mechanism.

Sectoral struggle and political participation were only realized in 1937: when Act 4112, granting women the right of suffrage, was implemented; and when the peasant movements gained meaningful participation in political parties and in actually filling of government positions.

The first democratic elections after WW II was the 1946 election for President and Vice-President of the Republic, Members of the Senate and of the House of Representatives. From then on, the country operated on a two-party system where two major political parties, the Nacionalista Party and the Liberal Party, figure in succeeding elections.

When Marcos declared Martial Law in 1972, the 1935 Constitution was scrapped, an Interim Batasang Pambansa was created and a new (1973) Constitution was adopted.

Election for the Interim Batasang Pambansa was called for in 1978. The Kilusang Bagong Lipunan (KBL) became the administration party. The election was claimed to be towards restoration of old political order but Marcos’ purpose was to gain legitimacy for his unpopular administration and to create a rubber stamp legislature. The exercise defied democratic procedures, and was characterized by rampant electoral manipulation done by the Marcos government to ensure victory.

Local election in 1980 was characterized by widespread terrorism, violence and wholesale fraud.

Intense opposition coming from the peasant and student sector in the countryside supported peasant and labor unrest. In 1981, Marcos submitted himself to the electoral process to regain legitimacy. This is mandated by the constitutional provision of a parliamentary system.


The Aquino assassination in 1983 resulted in waves of protest forcing the creation of wider democratic space. Batasang Pambansa elections happened in 1984 to replace the Interim Batasang Pambansa. The exercise was intended to divert the people’s attention away from the Aquino assassination. Still, the period was marked by weakening popularity of Marcos and the people’s growing political will to guarantee that their sentiments are reflected in election results.

Snap elections were held in 1986. The widespread election manipulations and irregularities and the worsening social, political and economic order triggered the EDSA uprising in the same year. The mass action known as the People Power Revolution of 1986 led to the ouster of Marcos, the collapse of KBL and the installation of Corazon Aquino as the President.

Aquino’s program of restoring democracy, promoting stability and establishing political legitimacy involved three major electoral exercises: national plebiscite for the approval of the 1987 Constitution in February 1987; election for members of the Senate and House of Representatives in May 1987; and local elections in January 1988. The 1987 Constitution provided for a multi-party system.

During the 1992 synchronized national and local elections, the people voted for president for the first time under the 1987 Constitution. The main campaign issue was doing away with “trapo” or traditional politics. In 1995, congressional and local elections were held. A new form of fraud dubbed as “dagdag-bawas” or the subtraction of votes from one candidate to be added to the contending candidate was in practice during these two major elections.

In 1998, the first party-list elections were held. Joseph Estrada was seated as President of the Republic with popular support. However in January 2001, EDSA DOS, a repeat of the 1986 People Power removed Estrada from Malacañang and seated Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo as the new president.

Time and again, the struggle for our independence and for democratic governance resulted in a kind of political system, political leaders and electorate that we have right now. Election has been one major feature and mechanism in practice and through a more informed electorate is hoped to continue to serve as a vehicle towards genuine democratic governance.


II. Elections and Democracy Objective: At the end of this session, the participant shall be able to gain insights on the concepts of election and democracy and on the particular mechanisms for participation in political exercises.

Activity 4: Lecture-Discussion on Elections and Democracy

Duration: 15 mins.

Materials: Reading on Elections and Democracy

Procedure: The interrelation of the main concepts of sovereignty/sovereign people, consent of the governed, free and informed political choice should be stressed. The trainer also discusses the specific mechanisms of political participation available to the citizen-voters. Reading: Elections and Democracy

The Constitution guarantees that we are a sovereign people, where all government authority comes from. Sovereignty or the power to govern is exercised directly through suffrage and indirectly through public officials elected by the people. The will of the people, then, is best expressed in clean, orderly and honest election.

The representative democratic structure, in which the people govern through

elected representatives, is based on the idea of “consent of the governed”. Thus, the government officials chosen and elected by the people become servants and not masters of the people from whom and for whom these officials exercise their power and authority.

The citizen voters are entitled to free and informed choice on whom to vote and

must be dictated by the genuine welfare of the majority. Every individual political choices and decisions made by the citizen voters will determine the kind of government that will serve them.

Specific Mechanisms

Since the enactment of the 1987 Constitution, elections for President and Vice-president are held every six years, while elections for Senators and members of the House of Representatives and local government officials happen every three years.

At the local level, barangay elections and Sangguniang Kabataan elections are

also held periodically.


In 1993 and 1996, elections for the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) were held. The 1996 ARMM elections also served as pilot-test for automated system of elections.

Aside from voting in elections, our Constitution mandates other mechanisms to advance democratization and citizen’s stake in governance.

The system of initiative and referendum gives the people power to directly enact,

propose and reject laws at the local level. Also through initiative, the people may directly propose amendments to the

Constitution by a petition of at least 12% of the total number of registered voters, in which 3% of registered voters in each legislative district is represented.

Through plebiscites, the people approve or reject the call for a constitutional

convention to propose changes to the Constitution, approve or reject proposed changes in the Constitution and, at the local level, express their will with respect to certain local issues.

The party-list system of representation allows for marginalized and

underrepresented sectors to be represented in the national legislature. The system serves as an attempt to depart from the personalistic character of political and electoral system by giving focus on the party and its issue-based platform.

The Constitution and the 1991 Local Government Code (LGC) mandate sectoral

representation in the legislative bodies of local governments.

People participation is also provided for by the Local Government Code through representation in consultative bodies such as the local health boards, local school boards, local peace and order councils and local development councils in all local levels.

There is also the LGC-mandated barangay assembly (peoples’ assembly or meeting of

all over-15-year-old-residents of the barangay). The assembly has the power to hear and pass upon the report of Sangguniang Barangay’s (SB) performance. It can also recommend measures for legislation by SB.

The Barangay Assembly is one manifestation of people’s power and a (truly)

direct and participatory democratic exercise.

The latest development in upholding the right of suffrage is Republic Act 9189, which provides for a system of absentee voting for qualified Filipinos abroad.


III. Government Structure and the Electoral Process A. Government Structure Objective: At the end of this session, the participant shall be able to learn the basic government structure in terms of the elective positions and their corresponding powers and functions. The participants shall also be able to reflect on the performances of past national

and local officials.

Activity 5: Workshop and Lecture-Discussion on Government Structure

Duration: 40 mins.

Materials: Matrix of Powers and Functions of Elective Officials; Game Materials

Procedure: (Workshop-Game) The trainer asks the participant to count in 2s to break them into two groups. The trainer then introduces the mechanics of the game. Group 1 is instructed to identify the different executive positions from the national to the local level and what functions they perform in government; while Group 2 is instructed to identify legislative positions from the national to the local level and identify functions in government. The groups will be given 30 minutes for the activity, after which, they will be asked to report on the discussions. (Lecture-Discussion) If necessary, the trainer then discusses the other executive and legislative positions and corresponding functions not mentioned in either reports Reading: Powers and Functions of Public Servants

Executive power is vested in the President of the Republic. This power covers: control of all executive departments and all implementing agencies of the government; appointment of high officials in the government (heads of executive

departments/cabinet members, ambassadors, public ministers, consuls, officers of the armed forces);

seeing to the execution and implementation of laws and policies Local government units also exercise executive functions through the governors of provinces, municipal and city mayors. Legislative power is lodged in the Congress of the Philippines: the Senate and the House of Representatives. Legislative functions include:

Statute making, constitution making, and amending of constitution; Appropriations/financial function; Oversight function; Informational or the power to conduct inquiries in aid of legislation.

Legislative functions are carried out in the local level by the different “sanggunians” or local legislative bodies.

In the law-making process, the president can either approve or veto a law passed by Congress. It would require 2/3s vote by the legislative body to finally pass the bill into law. At the local level, chief executives can also veto any ordinance on the ground that it is prejudicial to the public. In turn, the sanggunian or the local legislative body can override the veto, also by 2/3s vote of the whole sanggunian.


B. Election Process Objective: At the end of this session, the participant shall be able to learn/review the election process, new developments/initiatives in the process, and other matters, which need the attention of citizen-voters in the actual exercise of the right of suffrage. Activity 6: Lecture-Discussion on Election Process

Duration: 35 mins.

Materials: Diagram and Reading on Election Process; Visual Aids

Procedure: The trainer will discuss the qualifications and disqualifications of of a voter and will trace the election process with the aid of a diagram of the usual election process and introduce new developments in the process using the proposed process for the 2004 elections, that is incorporating the extent of automation in the counting and canvassing of votes. In each step of the process, the trainer discusses important procedures to be followed by the citizen-voters in the exercise of right of suffrage. The new system and procedures (i.e. automated counting and canvassing, absentee voting, etc.) should also be highlighted. Reading: Qualifications and Disqualifications of a Voter All citizens of the Philippines, eighteen years of age or over, and a resident of the Philippines for one year and in the city or municipality wherein he proposes to vote for at least six months immediately preceding the election are qualified to vote. The following shall be disqualified from voting:

a. Any person who has been sentenced by final judgment to suffer imprisonment for not less than one year. However, he/ she may reacquire the right to vote upon expiration of five years after service of sentence.

b. Any person who has been adjudged by final judgment by competent court or tribunal of having committed any crime involving disloyalty to the duly constituted government such as rebellion, sedition, violation of the anti-subversion and firearms laws, or any crime against national security, unless restored to his full civil and political rights in accordance with law: Provided, That he shall regain his right to vote automatically upon expiration of five years after service of sentence.

c. Insane or incompetent persons as declared by competent authority

In addition, RA 9189 or the Overseas Absentee Voting Law entitles all Filipino citizens overseas, not otherwise disqualified by law, and immigrants and permanent residents with affidavit of intent to resume residence in the Philippines, to vote for elective positions in the national level: President; Vice-President; Senators; and Party-List Representatives


Election Process Registration

Preliminary to the voting exercise is the registration of voters. During the registration process, the qualified voter accomplishes and files a sworn application for registration before the election officer of the city or municipality wherein he resides and including the same in the book of registered voters upon approval by the Election Registration Board. This process is currently guided by RA 8189 or the Continuing Voters’ Registration Act of 1996.

The Overseas Absentee Voting (OAV) Law applies the mechanics in RA 8189 of personal registration either with the Election Board of Inspectors in their place of residence before their departure or with the representative of the Commission in the Philippine embassies, consulates and other foreign service establishment in their temporary residence overseas.

Election Day

After undergoing the registration process and during election day, the voter proceeds to the casting of votes, which is conducted by the Board of Election Inspectors (BEI). All voters whose name appears in the list of voters will be allowed to vote. Official candidates and registered political parties and party-list groups are represented in the precincts by watchers.

Public counting of votes starts immediately after the close of voting at 3:00 p.m. Votes for candidates, simultaneously with the reading, are entered in the tally board and the election returns. Official watchers shall be permitted full access to the proceedings, but only the members of the BEI can write or place marks on the tally board and on the election returns. All questions on appreciation of ballots are decided by BEI by majority votes.

After all ballots have been read and recorded, the BEI signs and thumbmarks the election returns and lets the principal watchers of six major political parties do the same. Sic copies of the election returns are placed inside corresponding envelopes, sealed and submitted to officials concerned. These returns are then distributed to the Comelec, to designated canvassers, and candidates/parties through their watchers and are then used for canvassing of votes.

Modernized Election Process Republic Act 8436 or the Election Automation Law, legislated in 1997, mandates the use of automated election system in the country as early as the May 1998 elections. This system will comprise the use of appropriate technology for voting and electronic devices to count votes and canvass/consolidate results. The law also provides for the following features of the automated system: a) use of appropriate ballots; b) stand-alone machine which will count and consolidate elections results; c) provision for audit trails; d) minimum human intervention; and e) adequate safeguard and security measures. However, the succeeding elections in 1998, 2001, and 2002 (except for the 1996 ARMM elections, which pilot tested an automated system) came and went but still under a manual system of voting and counting. The approaching 2004 elections will again not see through a fully nationwide automated system. Only Phase I (validation of voters’ registration) of the automation was implemented by the Comelec. Phase II (automated counting and canvassing) will not push through for the 2004 elections, while according to the Comelec Phase III (transmission of election results) will still be implemented during the May 2004 elections.

Implementation of RA 8436 through Comelec Resolution 02-0170 Phase I Voter Registration and Validation System Phase II Automated Counting and Canvassing System Phase III Electronic Transmission of Election Results


IV. Voter Behavior and Elections Objective: During this session the participants shall be able to share and reflect on their observations of voting behavior and observations/ views/ experiences of elections and governance in their locality. Activity 7: Workshop: Role Playing –or- Lecture-Discussion

Duration: 40 mins.

Materials: Workshop Guide; Reading on Voter Behavior and Elections

Procedure: (Workshop-Role Playing) The trainer breaks the participants into 3-4 groups and asks them to come up with a short skit portraying an “election period” scenario that they will pick by drawing lots. Each group will then be asked to do the role-playing in front of all the participants. (Feedback) The trainer then facilitates the group in identifying the scenario portrayed and the various characteristics and practices commonly observed during election period. He/She then discusses other practices, which have not been brought up in the activity. (Lecture-Discussion) The trainer gives inputs on voter behavior and election, which may serve as segue to the workshop on guiding vision. Reading: Voter Behavior and Elections

A 2003 update study on voter behavior suggest the top four factors on what determines the vote of Filipino electorate:

1. candidate’s public servant image; 2. political machinery; 3. candidate’s popularity; and 4. endorsement of traditional network and organizations which include the

family, the church, the ward leaders, and formal groups and association.

The conduct of elections is made complex by the practices and values, which in turn are reflective of the behavior and attitudes of the electorate and the politicians and of the actual practices before, during and after elections. Further, voter behavior reflects the personalistic and patronage orientation of traditional Filipino politics or “trapo”.

Patronage politics thrive on a culture where the government leader becomes a

politician who serves as a patron accommodating special favors to dole out money or provide jobs, recommendations and contracts to only a few in exchange for votes in the succeeding elections or support for a political agenda.


A common element of patronage culture is utang na loob. The powers-that-be use

this to ensure that their political and economic interests will be served. For instance, a “powerful” politician may invite a candidate to run under his political party and in return, the candidate will feel indebted and eventually feel pressured to support the political agenda of his benefactor (even if he is opposed to said agenda).

For the poor, giving their support to a candidate is seen as an investment so that

they can depend on the politician for help, e.g. donations, medicine, school fees. Campaign supporters view their help as a personal favor that the elected official should perceive as utang na loob. In return, they expect the official to accept personal invitations from their organizations, to comply with personal requests for donations, to award them perhaps with a government position upon electoral victory.

In preparation for a coming election, people with plans of running for public

office would be seen attending public functions from the barangay (community) to the provincial level. For constituents at the national level, candidates engage themselves in media exposure.

Conversely, voting has always been determined by popularity of the candidate

and financial and party machinery, which enhances the popularity of a candidate. Elections now become a high-spending process to the detriment of the candidates who has neither the financial resources nor the machinery, which can provide for posters and airtime in mass media.

Consequently, the electoral system becomes bereft of the real issues affecting the

electorate. Venues to seriously discuss programs of action and performances of candidates become less relevant in determining who gets elected into office.

The traditional guns, goons, and gold element of Filipino politics continue to be a

real phenomenon in certain districts, provinces, and regions particularly in the local level.

Massive election fraud and violence are employed in order to win the elections.

Instances of cheating range from use of flying voters, registration of disqualified voters, vote-buying, ballot and ballot box switching, padding of votes through dagdag bawas and other forms, tampering canvass of votes, etc. Again, these practices become more detrimental to candidates who have neither the financial nor political machinery to guard the integrity of the votes and election results. However, the most powerful safeguard against election fraud is the awareness and vigilance of every voter.


V. Guiding Vision and Action Points for Citizen Voters Objective: During this session, the participants shall be able to draw up visions of their ideal government, ideal leaders and ideal citizen-voters. This portion aims to provide the participants with some guidelines in looking/choosing/building a good government, good leaders, and good citizen-voters. It also aims to provide the participants action points before, during and after elections. Activity 8: Workshop: Small Group Sharing -or- Brainstorming

Duration: 40 mins.

Materials: Workshop Guide; Writing Materials; Reading on Guiding Vision or Manila Paper/Cartolina labeled as: 1. government; 2. leaders; 3. citizen-voters; Meta cards; Writing Materials; Reading on Guiding Vision Procedure: (Small Group Sharing) The trainer divides the participants into 3 groups. These groups will then reflect on and discuss their ideas of the characteristics of 1.) ideal government, 2.) ideal leaders, and 3.) ideal citizen-voters. Each group will be assigned one topic (e.g. group 1 will discuss vision of an ideal government, etc.) The trainer will give out copies of guide questions for the groups. Groups will then assign a facilitator and a scribe. The groups post the results of their group sharing and the plenary discusses them. (Brainstorming) The trainer gives out metacards and markers and asks the participants to write (or draw) their ideas on what makes up the ideal government, ideal leaders, and ideal citizen-voters. The trainer posts 3 sheets labeled as 1. government; 2. leaders; and 3. citizen-voters, then asks the participants to post their cards to the corresponding sheets. Reading: Vision of Good Government, Leaders and Citizen Voters The government, the leaders and the citizen voters are now faced with the challenge of advancing various reforms in the system and in attitudes and perceptions towards a system of wider and genuine participation of the grassroots in politics and governance, and towards citizen’s political maturity.

• Government Advancing democratization and good governance Making available a meaningful and accessible election process Maximizing the benefits of democratic mechanisms for the interest and welfare of all sectors of society, particularly the marginalized and underrepresented sectors. Ensuring that the government agenda and programs of action are genuinely reflective of peoples’ agenda. Advocating new politics and new kind of leaders that engage the participation of citizen voters in running the affairs of the government • Leaders Capitalizing on the program of action and public service rather than on popularity in winning elections Promoting the envisioned government and engaging the citizens’ stake in governance • Citizen Voters Exercising the right to vote and the duty of guarding the integrity of the vote itself from any fraudulent maneuvering Using conscience in choosing the right leaders Safeguarding and defending the democratic mechanisms and institutions


Activity 9: Lecture-Discussion on Action Points for Citizen-Voters

Duration: 10 mins.

Materials: Reading on Action Points for Citizen-Voters; Visual Aids

Procedure: The trainer gives out action points that may be followed by the participants in the exercise of their right of suffrage. Reading: Action Points for Citizen-Voters Below are some action points for the citizen-voters in his/her exercise of the right of suffrage.

Pre-Elections Engage in preparatory activities that would enable him/her to exercise the right of suffrage and the right to an informed and free choice.

Register during the period allotted for voter registration Be informed of the issues, platforms and personalities of the political candidates Set specific guidelines in choosing government leaders in terms of the candidates’ social

affiliations and interests, competence, lifestyle, performance records. Conduct/participate in public debates that would inform citizens and gain the commitment

of the candidates to integrate, foremost, the interests and welfare of the citizens in their program of government. This process can be used to remind and hold the elected leaders accountable to the promises made during the campaign.

During elections

Exercise vigilance and the right to vote

Vote according to your conscience Practice vigilance by protecting the integrity of your own vote from any undue influence,

volunteering in organizations that work for clean and peaceful elections, watching out for instances of cheating in the elections, and informing the rest of the electorate of such activities.

Post-Elections

Practice continued vigilance and participate in governance

Be vigilant in the counting and canvassing of votes Another arena of participation is open to the citizen voter once the candidates they have

voted for assume office. Participate in local governance through development planning in the barangay level,

consultations and public hearings, representation in local special bodies. Aside from direct exercise of legislative power through the system of initiative and

referendum, citizen voter can participate in legislating laws through legislative advocacy, a process of engaging with the legislature and other governmental and social institutions to ensure that the concerns and welfare of the general electorate be articulated in the deliberations of bills and other legislative measures as well as in the final versions of laws.

The citizen voter can also engage in the political and electoral process in other ways such as: a. running for office. b. supporting/campaigning for a political party, candidate or party-list group. c. supporting initiatives of civil society organizations to ensure honest and

peaceful elections. d. making views known to the elected representatives.


Activity 10: Open Forum/ Action Points

Duration: 20 mins.

Materials: --

Procedure: The trainer opens the floor for any clarifications, questions, and comments on the various concepts from the training. Here the participants shall be able to clarify and thresh out issues with the trainers as well as with the other participants that may have arise from the lectures, discussions, and sharing. Also, the participants shall be able to draw up post-training action points.

Activity 11: Closing/ Evaluation

Duration: 10 mins.

Materials: Evaluation Forms

Procedure: The trainer closes the training session and hands out evaluation forms to the participants. The participants then assess the activity by answering the evaluation forms.

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ledg

e on

th

e hi

stor

y of

ele

ctio

ns.

The

Rig

ht

of S

uff

rage

H

isto

ry o

f El

ecti

ons

AC

TIV

ITY

2

Lect

ure

Th

e tr

aine

r di

scus

ses

the

prov

isio

ns o

f UD

HR,

IC

CPR,

and

the

1987

Con

stitu

tion

pert

aini

ng

to th

e rig

ht to

vot

e.

AC

TIV

ITY

3

Lect

ure

Th

e tr

aine

r br

iefly

pre

sent

s el

ectio

ns in

the

Phili

ppin

es d

urin

g th

e pr

e-co

loni

al, c

olon

ial,

pre-

mar

tial l

aw, m

artia

l law

, pos

t mar

tial l

aw,

and

the

curr

ent p

erio

ds.

Emph

asis

sho

uld

be

give

n on

the

maj

or p

oliti

cal a

nd e

lect

ion

even

ts a

nd c

onte

nder

s in

eac

h pe

riod.

Mat

rix o

f Ar

ticle

21,

UD

HR;

Ar

t.25

, ICC

PR;

and

Art.

V,

1987

Phi

lippi

ne C

onst

itutio

n

Mat

rix o

f El

ectio

ns in

the

Ph

ilipp

ines

; Re

adin

g on

His

tory

of

Ele

ctio

ns

Visu

al A

ids

5 m

ins.

10

min

s.

…to

gai

n in

sigh

ts o

n th

e co

ncep

ts o

f el

ectio

n an

d de

moc

racy

and

on

the

part

icul

ar

mec

hani

sms

for

part

icip

atio

n in

po

litic

al e

xerc

ises

.

Elec

tion

s an

d D

emoc

racy

A

CTI

VIT

Y 4

Le

ctu

re-D

iscu

ssio

n Th

e in

terr

elat

ion

of th

e m

ain

conc

epts

of

sove

reig

nty/

sove

reig

n pe

ople

, con

sent

of t

he

gove

rned

, fre

e an

d in

form

ed p

oliti

cal c

hoic

e sh

ould

be

stre

ssed

. Th

e tr

aine

r al

so d

iscu

sses

the

spec

ific

mec

hani

sms

of p

oliti

cal p

artic

ipat

ion

avai

labl

e to

the

citiz

en-v

oter

s.

Rea

ding

on

Elec

tions

and

D

emoc

racy

15

min

s.

…to

lear

n th

e ba

sic

gove

rnm

ent

stru

ctur

e in

ter

ms

of t

he e

lect

ive

posi

tions

and

the

ir co

rres

pond

ing

pow

ers

and

func

tions

.

Gov

ern

men

t St

ruct

ure

AC

TIV

ITY

5

Wor

ksh

op-G

ame

The

trai

ner

asks

the

part

icip

ant t

o co

unt i

n 2s

to

bre

ak th

em in

to tw

o gr

oups

. The

trai

ner

then

intr

oduc

es th

e m

echa

nics

of t

he g

ame:

G

roup

1 is

inst

ruct

ed to

iden

tify

Gam

e M

ater

ials

M

atrix

of

Pow

ers

and

Func

tions

of El

ectiv

e O

ffic

ials

40 m

ins.

Inst

itute

for

Polit

ical

and

Ele

ctor

al R

efor

m (

IPER

)

T

rain

ing

Sche

dule

/

1

8

O

bjec

tive

s To

pic/

Con

ten

t M

eth

odol

ogy/

Trai

ner

’s G

uid

e R

efer

ence

/Mat

eria

ls

Du

rati

on

At th

e en

d of

this

ses

sion

, the

pa

rtic

ipan

t sha

ll be

abl

e…

…to

ref

lect

on

the

perf

orm

ance

s of

pas

t na

tiona

l and

loca

l off

icia

ls

th

e di

ffere

nt e

xecu

tive

posi

tions

from

the

natio

nal t

o th

e lo

cal l

evel

and

wha

t fun

ctio

ns

they

per

form

in g

over

nmen

t; w

hile

Gro

up 2

is

inst

ruct

ed to

iden

tify

legi

slat

ive

posi

tions

from

th

e na

tiona

l to

the

loca

l lev

el a

nd id

entif

y fu

nctio

ns in

gov

ernm

ent.

The

grou

ps w

ill b

e gi

ven

30 m

inut

es fo

r th

e ac

tivity

, afte

r w

hich

, th

ey w

ill b

e as

ked

to r

epor

t on

the

disc

ussi

ons.

Lect

ure

-Dis

cuss

ion

If n

eces

sary

, the

trai

ner

then

dis

cuss

es th

e ot

her

exec

utiv

e an

d le

gisl

ativ

e po

sitio

ns a

nd

corr

espo

ndin

g fu

nctio

ns n

ot m

entio

ned

in th

e gr

oups

’ rep

orts

.

…to

lear

n/re

view

the

ele

ctio

n pr

oces

s, n

ew

deve

lopm

ents

/initi

ativ

es in

the

pr

oces

s, a

nd t

he a

reas

whi

ch

need

the

att

entio

n of

citi

zen-

vote

rs in

the

act

ual e

xerc

ise

of

the

right

of

suff

rage

.

Elec

tion

Pro

cess

A

CTI

VIT

Y 6

Le

ctu

re-D

iscu

ssio

n Th

e tr

aine

r w

ill d

iscu

ss th

e qu

alifi

catio

ns a

nd

disq

ualif

icat

ions

of a

vot

er a

nd w

ill tr

ace

the

elec

tion

proc

ess

with

the

aid

of a

dia

gram

of

the

usua

l ele

ctio

n pr

oces

s an

d in

trod

uce

new

de

velo

pmen

ts in

the

proc

ess

usin

g th

e pr

opos

ed p

roce

ss fo

r th

e 20

04 e

lect

ions

, tha

t is

inco

rpor

atin

g th

e ex

tent

of a

utom

atio

n in

th

e co

untin

g an

d ca

nvas

sing

of v

otes

. In

each

st

ep o

f the

pro

cess

, the

trai

ner

disc

usse

s im

port

ant p

roce

dure

s to

be

follo

wed

by

the

citiz

en-v

oter

s in

the

exer

cise

of r

ight

of

suffr

age.

The

new

sys

tem

and

pro

cedu

res

(i.e.

aut

omat

ed c

ount

ing

and

canv

assi

ng,

abse

ntee

vot

ing,

etc

.) s

houl

d al

so b

e hi

ghlig

hted

.

Dia

gram

and

Rea

ding

on

Elec

tion

Proc

ess

Visu

al A

ids

35 m

ins.

B

reak

1

0 m

ins.

Inst

itute

for

Polit

ical

and

Ele

ctor

al R

efor

m (

IPER

)

T

rain

ing

Sche

dule

/

1

9

O

bjec

tive

s To

pic/

Con

ten

t M

eth

odol

ogy/

Trai

ner

’s G

uid

e R

efer

ence

/Mat

eria

ls

Du

rati

on

Dur

ing

this

ses

sion

the

part

icip

ants

sha

ll be

abl

e…

…to

sha

re a

nd r

efle

ct o

n th

eir

obse

rvat

ions

of

votin

g be

havi

or

and

obse

rvat

ions

/ vi

ews/

ex

perie

nces

of

elec

tions

and

go

vern

ance

in t

heir

loca

lity.

Vot

er B

ehav

ior

and

Elec

tion

s

AC

TIV

ITY

7

Wor

ksh

op/R

ole

Pla

yin

g Th

e tr

aine

r br

eaks

the

part

icip

ants

into

3-4

gr

oups

and

ask

s th

em to

com

e up

with

a

shor

t ski

t por

tray

ing

an “

elec

tion

perio

d”

scen

ario

that

they

will

pic

k by

dra

win

g lo

ts.

Each

gro

up w

ill th

en b

e as

ked

to d

o th

e ro

le

play

ing

in fr

ont o

f all

the

part

icip

ants

. Fe

edba

ck

The

trai

ner

then

faci

litat

es th

e gr

oup

in

iden

tifyi

ng th

e sc

enar

io p

ortr

ayed

and

the

vario

us c

hara

cter

istic

s an

d pr

actic

es

com

mon

ly o

bser

ved

durin

g el

ectio

n pe

riod.

H

e/Sh

e th

en d

iscu

sses

oth

er p

ract

ices

, whi

ch

have

not

bee

n br

ough

t up

in th

e ac

tivity

.

Rea

ding

on

Vote

r Be

havi

or

and

Elec

tions

W

orks

hop

Gui

de

40 m

ins.

or

Lect

ure

-Dis

cuss

ion

Th

e tr

aine

r gi

ves

inpu

ts o

n vo

ter

beha

vior

and

el

ectio

n, w

hich

will

ser

ve a

s se

gue

to th

e w

orks

hop

on g

uidi

ng v

isio

n.

…to

dra

w u

p vi

sion

s of

the

ir id

eal

gove

rnm

ent,

idea

l lea

ders

and

id

eal c

itize

n-vo

ters

. Th

is p

ortio

n ai

ms

to p

rovi

de t

he

part

icip

ants

with

som

e gu

idel

ines

in

look

ing/

choo

sing

/bui

ldin

g a

good

gov

ernm

ent,

goo

d le

ader

s,

and

good

citi

zen-

vote

rs.

Gu

idin

g V

isio

n

AC

TIV

ITY

8

Wor

ksh

op-S

mal

l Gro

up

Shar

ing

The

trai

ner

divi

des

the

part

icip

ants

into

3

grou

ps. T

hese

gro

ups

will

the

n re

flect

on

and

disc

uss

thei

r id

eas

of t

he c

hara

cter

istic

s of

id

eal 1

.gov

ernm

ent,

2. l

eade

rs, &

3.c

itize

n-vo

ters

. Eac

h gr

oup

will

be

assi

gned

one

top

ic

(e.g

. gro

up 1

will

dis

cuss

vis

ion

of a

n id

eal

gove

rnm

ent,

etc

.) T

he t

rain

er w

ill g

ive

out

copi

es o

f gu

ide

ques

tions

for

the

gro

ups.

G

roup

s w

ill t

hen

assi

gn a

fac

ilita

tor

and

a sc

ribe.

T

he g

roup

s po

st th

e re

sults

of t

heir

grou

p sh

arin

g an

d th

e pl

enar

y di

scus

ses

them

.

Wor

ksho

p G

uide

W

ritin

g M

ater

ials

Rea

ding

on

Gui

ding

Vis

ion

40 m

ins

Inst

itute

for

Polit

ical

and

Ele

ctor

al R

efor

m (

IPER

)

T

rain

ing

Sche

dule

/

2

0

O

bjec

tive

s To

pic/

Con

ten

t M

eth

odol

ogy/

Trai

ner

’s G

uid

e R

efer

ence

/Mat

eria

ls

Du

rati

on

or

Bra

inst

orm

ing

The

trai

ner

give

s ou

t met

a ca

rds

and

mar

kers

and

ask

s th

e pa

rtic

ipan

ts to

writ

e (o

r dr

aw)

thei

r id

eas

on w

hat m

akes

up

the

idea

l gov

ernm

ent,

idea

l lea

ders

, and

idea

l ci

tizen

-vot

ers.

The

trai

ner

post

s 3

shee

ts

labe

led

as 1

. gov

ernm

ent;

2. l

eade

rs;

and

3. c

itize

n-vo

ters

, the

n as

ks th

e pa

rtic

ipan

ts

to p

ost t

heir

card

s to

the

corr

espo

ndin

g sh

eets

.

Man

ila P

aper

/Car

tolin

a la

bele

d as

: 1.

gov

ernm

ent;

2. l

eade

rs;

3.

citi

zen-

vote

rs

Met

a ca

rds

Writ

ing

Mat

eria

ls

Rea

ding

on

Gui

ding

Vis

ion

This

por

tion

aim

s to

pro

vide

th

e pa

rtic

ipan

ts a

ctio

n po

ints

bef

ore,

dur

ing

and

afte

r el

ectio

ns.

Act

ion

Poi

nts

for

Cit

izen

-V

oter

s A

CTI

VIT

Y 9

Le

ctu

re-D

iscu

ssio

n Th

e tr

aine

r gi

ves

out a

ctio

n po

ints

that

may

be

follo

wed

by

the

part

icip

ants

in th

eir

exer

cise

of t

he r

ight

of s

uffr

age.

Rea

ding

on

Actio

n Po

ints

for

Ci

tizen

-Vot

ers

Vi

sual

Aid

s

10 m

ins.

Her

e, t

he p

artic

ipan

ts s

hall

be a

ble

to c

larif

y an

d th

resh

ou

t is

sues

(w

ith t

he

trai

ner/

s as

wel

l as

with

the

ot

her

part

icip

ants

) th

at m

ay

have

aris

e fr

om t

he

lect

ures

, dis

cuss

ions

, and

sh

arin

g.

Also

, the

par

ticip

ants

sha

ll be

abl

e to

dra

w u

p po

st-

trai

ning

act

ion

poin

ts.

Ope

n F

oru

m

AC

TIV

ITY

10

Ope

n F

orum

Th

e tr

aine

r op

ens

the

floor

for

any

clar

ifica

tions

, que

stio

ns, a

nd c

omm

ents

on

the

vario

us c

once

pts

from

the

trai

ning

. P

ost-

trai

nin

g A

ctio

n P

oin

ts f

or t

he

part

icip

ants

20

min

s

The

part

icip

ants

and

the

tr

aine

r sh

all b

e ab

le t

o as

sess

the

tra

inin

g, w

hich

ha

s ju

st b

een

cond

ucte

d.

Clo

sin

g/Ev

alu

atio

n

AC

TIV

ITY

11

The

trai

ner

clos

es th

e tr

aini

ng s

essi

on a

nd

hand

s ou

t eva

luat

ion

form

s to

the

part

icip

ants

. The

par

ticip

ants

then

ass

ess

the

activ

ity b

y an

swer

ing

the

eval

uatio

n fo

rms.

Eval

uatio

n Fo

rms

10 m

ins.

Institute for Political and Electoral Reform (IPER), Inc.

Your Vote. Our Future. IPER Citizen-Voter Education Module

The monumental event that was People Power II or EDSA DOS called for new politics based on political and electoral reforms targeted at the traditional elite-dominated, patriarchal and personalist political system. Such reforms are aimed at broadening the genuine participation of the grassroots in politics and governance, ensuring universal suffrage, assuring clean, honest and fair elections, and developing a politically mature citizenry. These are further directed towards making Philippine elections a more meaningful political exercise through an enlightened electorate.

A key part of these reforms concern the education and raising of the political consciousness of the electorate towards a responsible, democratic, and sustained participation in the electoral and governance processes. Immediately, citizen-voter education targets the marginalized and underrepresented sectors who constitute the vast majority of voters.

Your Vote. Our Future.– the module then serves to contribute to the efforts at effecting matured and informed political attitudes and decisions of Filipino citizen voters. As a generic citizens education module, it covers the broader aspects of the political and electoral system, human rights and governance. Contents of this module are the basic concepts and ideas to be considered in creating messages according to various forms of communication for the education campaign. Part I gives a note on the right of suffrage and a brief history of elections in the Philippines. Part II advances the concepts of elections and democracy and various mechanisms for people’s participation in such set-up. Part III discusses the government structure and electoral process and system and outlines the duties and responsibilities of both the public servants and the citizen voters to watch out for. A review of electoral procedures and processes is also done in Part III, which aims to guide voters in the actual conduct of elections. Part IV deals with the existing voter behavior and elections: attitudes and decisions of the electorate; and of political candidates; dynamics and mechanisms employed by stakeholders in the electoral and political processes. Finally, Part V shares a vision of ideal government, citizen-voter and political leaders and enumerates action points for the citizen voters before, during, and after elections.

Institute for Political and Electoral Reform (IPER), Inc. Citizen-Voter Education Module/

2

I. The Right of Suffrage and Brief History of Philippine Elections

A. The Right of Suffrage (See Annex1) The human right to vote is embodied in three instruments: Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR); the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights; and in the 1987 Philippine Constitution. The Philippines is governed by these three documents which similarly mandate universality of the right; equality in access to public service; and secrecy of votes.

B. History of Elections (See Annex 2: History of Philippine Elections: Year and Type,

Contenders and Results) During the pre-colonial period, leaders were chosen based on his/her capacity to ensure the survival of his/her tribe and clan. Wisdom, skills, and respect for people were the important qualities for leadership.

A system of election was first practiced in the Philippines during the Spanish and American colonial period. But the process was only limited to male voters and was more of a ceremonial rather than a genuine democratic mechanism.

Sectoral struggle and political participation were only realized in 1937: when Act 4112, granting women the right of suffrage, was implemented; and when the peasant movements gained meaningful participation in political parties and in actually filling of government positions.

The first democratic elections after WW II was the 1946 election for President and Vice-President of the Republic, Members of the Senate and of the House of Representatives. From then on, the country operated on a two-party system where two major political parties, the Nacionalista Party and the Liberal Party, figure in succeeding elections.

When Marcos declared Martial Law in 1972, the 1935 Constitution was scrapped, an Interim Batasang Pambansa was created and a new (1973) Constitution was adopted.

Election for the Interim Batasang Pambansa was called for in 1978. The Kilusang Bagong Lipunan (KBL) became the administration party. The election was claimed to be towards restoration of old political order but Marcos’ purpose was to gain legitimacy for his unpopular administration and to create a rubber stamp legislature. The exercise defied democratic procedures, and was characterized by rampant electoral manipulation done by the Marcos government to ensure victory.

Local election in 1980 was characterized by widespread terrorism, violence and wholesale fraud.

Intense opposition coming from the peasant and student sector in the countryside supported peasant and labor unrest. In 1981, Marcos submitted himself to the electoral process to regain legitimacy. This is mandated by the constitutional provision of a parliamentary system.

The Aquino assassination in 1983 resulted in waves of protest forcing the creation of wider democratic space. Batasang Pambansa elections happened in 1984 to replace the Interim Batasang Pambansa. The exercise was intended to divert the people’s attention away from the Aquino assassination. Still, the period was marked by weakening popularity of Marcos and the people’s growing political will to guarantee that their sentiments are reflected in election results.


3

Snap elections were held in 1986. The widespread election manipulations and irregularities and the worsening social, political and economic order triggered the EDSA uprising in the same year. The mass action known as the People Power Revolution of 1986 led to the ouster of Marcos, the collapse of KBL and the installation of Corazon Aquino as the President.

Aquino’s program of restoring democracy, promoting stability and establishing political legitimacy involved three major electoral exercises: national plebiscite for the approval of the 1987 Constitution in February 1987; election for members of the Senate and House of Representatives in May 1987; and local elections in January 1988. The 1987 Constitution provided for a multi-party system.

During the 1992 synchronized national and local elections, the people voted for president for the first time under the 1987 Constitution. The main campaign issue was doing away with “trapo” or traditional politics. In 1995, congressional and local elections were held. A new form of fraud dubbed as “dagdag-bawas” or the subtraction of votes from one candidate to be added to the contending candidate was in practice during these two major elections.

In 1998, the first party-list elections were held. Joseph Estrada was seated as President of the Republic with popular support. However in January 2001, EDSA DOS, a repeat of the 1986 People Power removed Estrada from Malacañang and seated Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo as the new president.

Time and again, the struggle for our independence and for democratic governance resulted in a kind of political system, political leaders and electorate that we have right now. Election has been one major feature and mechanism in practice and through a more informed electorate is hoped to continue to serve as a vehicle towards genuine democratic governance.

II. Elections and Democracy

The Constitution guarantees that we are a sovereign people, where all government authority comes from. Sovereignty or the power to govern is exercised directly through suffrage and indirectly through public officials elected by the people. The will of the people, then, is best expressed in clean, orderly and honest election.

The representative democratic structure, in which the people govern through elected

representatives, is based on the idea of “consent of the governed”. Thus, the government officials chosen and elected by the people become servants and not masters of the people from whom and for whom these officials exercise their power and authority.

The citizen voters are entitled to free and informed choice on whom to vote and must be

dictated by the genuine welfare of the majority. Every individual political choices and decisions made by the citizen voters will determine the kind of government that will serve them.


4

Specific Mechanisms Since the enactment of the 1987 Constitution, elections for President and Vice-president

are held every six years, while elections for Senators and members of the House of Representatives and local government officials happen every three years.

At the local level, barangay elections and Sangguniang Kabataan elections are also held

periodically.

In 1993 and 1996, elections for the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) were held. The 1996 ARMM elections also served as pilot-test for automated system of elections.

Aside from voting, our Constitution mandates other mechanisms to advance democratization and citizen’s stake in governance.

The system of initiative and referendum gives the people power to directly enact,

propose and reject laws at the local level. Also through initiative, the people may directly propose amendments to the Constitution

by a petition of at least 12% of the total number of registered voters, in which 3% of registered voters in each legislative district is represented.

Through plebiscites, the people approve or reject the call for a constitutional convention

to propose changes to the Constitution, approve or reject proposed changes in the Constitution and, at the local level, express their will with respect to certain local issues.

The party-list system of representation allows for marginalized and underrepresented

sectors to be represented in the national legislature. The system serves as an attempt to depart from the personalistic character of political and electoral system by giving focus on the party and its issue-based platform.

The Constitution and the 1991 Local Government Code (LGC) mandate sectoral

representation in the legislative bodies of local governments.

People participation is also provided for by the Local Government Code through representation in consultative bodies such as the local health boards, local school boards, local peace and order councils and local development councils in all local levels.

There is also the LGC-mandated barangay assembly (peoples’ assembly or meeting of all

over-15-year-old-residents of the barangay). The assembly has the power to hear and pass upon the report of Sangguniang Barangay’s (SB) performance. It can also recommend measures for legislation by SB.

The Barangay Assembly is one manifestation of people’s power and a (truly) direct and

participatory democratic exercise.

The latest development in upholding the right of suffrage is Republic Act 9189, which provides for a system of absentee voting for qualified Filipinos abroad.


5

III. Government Structure and the Electoral Process National and Local Elective Public Servants (See Annex 3) At the national level, we vote for: President Vice President 12 Senators 1 District Representative or Congressman/woman (1 Party-list group). At the provincial level, we vote for: Governor Vice Governor Sangguniang Panlalawigan Member At the municipal/city level, we vote for: City/Municipal Mayor City/Municipal Vice-Mayor Members of the Sannguniang Panlunsod (City Councilors) /Sangguniang Pambayan (Municipal Councilors) At the barangay level, we vote for: Punong Barangay Members of the sangguniang barangay (barangay kagawad and sangguniang kabataan chair) Powers and Functions of Public Servants

Executive power is vested in the President of the Republic. This power covers: control of all executive departments and all implementing agencies of the

government; appointment of high officials in the government (heads of executive

departments/cabinet members, ambassadors, public ministers, consuls, officers of the armed forces);

seeing to the execution and implementation of laws and policies Local government units also exercise executive functions through the governors of provinces, municipal and city mayors. Legislative power is lodged in the Congress of the Philippines: the Senate and the House of Representatives. Legislative functions include:

Statute making, constitution making, and amending of constitution; Appropriations/financial function; Oversight function; Informational or the power to conduct inquiries in aid of legislation.

Legislative functions are carried out in the local level by the different “sanggunians” or local legislative bodies.


6

In the statute-making process, the president can either approve or veto the bill. It would require 2/3s vote by the legislative body to finally pass the bill into law. At the local level, chief executives can also veto any ordinance on the ground that it is prejudicial to the public. In turn, the sanggunian or the local legislative body can override the veto, also by 2/3s vote of the whole sanggunian.

Election Process (See Annex 4: Diagram of Election Process)

Qualifications and Disqualifications of a voter All citizens of the Philippines, eighteen years of age or over, and a resident of the Philippines for one year and in the city or municipality wherein he proposes to vote for at least six months immediately preceding the election are qualified to vote. The following shall be disqualified from voting:

a. Any person who has been sentenced by final judgment to suffer imprisonment for not less than one year. However, he/ she may reacquire the right to vote upon expiration of five years after service of sentence.

b. Any person who has been adjudged by final judgment by competent court or tribunal of having committed any crime involving disloyalty to the duly constituted government such as rebellion, sedition, violation of the anti-subversion and firearms laws, or any crime against national security, unless restored to his full civil and political rights in accordance with law: Provided, That he shall regain his right to vote automatically upon expiration of five years after service of sentence.

c. Insane or incompetent persons as declared by competent authority

In addition, RA 9189 or the Overseas Absentee Voting Law entitles all Filipino citizens overseas, not otherwise disqualified by law, and immigrants and permanent residents with affidavit of intent to resume residence in the Philippines, to vote for elective positions in the national level: President; Vice-President; Senators; and Party-List Representatives

Registration

Preliminary to the voting exercise is the registration of voters. During the registration process, the qualified voter accomplishes and files a sworn application for registration before the election officer of the city or municipality wherein he resides and including the same in the book of registered voters upon approval by the Election Registration Board. This process is currently guided by RA 8189 or the Continuing Voters’ Registration Act of 1996.

The Overseas Absentee Voting (OAV) Law applies the mechanics in RA 8189 of personal registration either with the Election Board of Inspectors in their place of residence before their departure or with the representative of the Commission in the Philippine embassies, consulates and other foreign service establishment in their temporary residence overseas.

Election Day

After undergoing the registration process and during election day, the voter proceeds to the casting of votes, which is conducted by the Board of Election Inspectors (BEI). All voters whose name appears in the list of voters will be allowed to vote. Official candidates and registered political parties and party-list groups are represented in the precincts by watchers.


7

Public counting of votes starts immediately after the close of voting at 3:00 p.m. Votes for candidates, simultaneously with the reading, are entered in the tally board and the election returns. Official watchers shall be permitted full access to the proceedings, but only the members of the BEI can write or place marks on the tally board and on the election returns. All questions on appreciation of ballots are decided by BEI by majority votes.

After all ballots have been read and recorded, the BEI signs and thumbmarks the election returns and lets the principal watchers of six major political parties do the same. Six copies of the election returns are placed inside corresponding envelopes, sealed and submitted to officials concerned. These returns are then distributed to the Comelec, to designated canvassers, and candidates/parties through their watchers and are then used for canvassing of votes.

Modernized Election Process Republic Act 8436 or the Election Automation Law, legislated in 1997, mandates the use of automated election system in the country as early as the May 1998 elections. This system will comprise the use of appropriate technology for voting and electronic devices to count votes and canvass/consolidate results. The law also provides for the following features of the automated system: a) use of appropriate ballots; b) stand-alone machine which will count and consolidate elections results; c) provision for audit trails; d) minimum human intervention; and e) adequate safeguard and security measures. However, the succeeding elections in 1998, 2001, and 2002 (except for the 1996 ARMM elections, which pilot tested an automated system) came and went but still under a manual system of voting and counting. The approaching 2004 elections will again not see through an automated system. Only Phase I (voter registration and validation) of the automation was implemented by the Comelec. Phase II (automated counting and canvassing) will not push through for the 2004 elections, while according to the Comelec Phase III (electronic transmission of election results) will still be implemented during the May 2004 elections. IV. Voter Behavior and Elections

A 2003 update study on voter behavior suggest the top four factors on what determines the vote of Filipino electorate:

1. candidate’s public servant image; 2. political machinery; 3. candidate’s popularity; and 4. endorsement of traditional network and organizations which include the family,

the church, the ward leaders, and formal groups and association.

The conduct of elections is made complex by the practices and values, which in turn are reflective of the behavior and attitudes of the electorate and the politicians and of the actual practices before, during and after elections. Further, voter behavior reflects the personalistic and patronage orientation of traditional Filipino politics or “trapo”.


8

Patronage politics thrive on a culture where the government leader becomes a politician who serves as a patron accommodating special favors to dole out money or provide jobs, recommendations and contracts to only a few in exchange for votes in the succeeding elections or support for a political agenda.

A common element of patronage culture is utang na loob. The powers-that-be use this

to ensure that their political and economic interests will be served. For instance, a “powerful” politician may invite a candidate to run under his political party and in return, the candidate will feel indebted and eventually feel pressured to support the political agenda of his benefactor (even if he is opposed to said agenda).

For the poor, giving their support to a candidate is seen as an investment so that they

can depend on the politician for help, e.g. donations, medicine, school fees. Campaign supporters view their help as a personal favor that the elected official should perceive as utang na loob. In return, they expect the official to accept personal invitations from their organizations, to comply with personal requests for donations, to award them perhaps with a government position upon electoral victory.

In preparation for a coming election, people with plans of running for public office would

be seen attending public functions from the barangay (community) to the provincial level. For constituents at the national level, candidates engage themselves in media exposure.

Conversely, voting has always been determined by popularity of the candidate and

financial and party machinery, which enhances the popularity of a candidate. Elections now become a high-spending process to the detriment of the candidates who has neither the financial resources nor the machinery, which can provide for posters and airtime in mass media.

Consequently, the electoral system becomes bereft of the real issues affecting the

electorate. Venues to seriously discuss programs of action and performances of candidates become less relevant in determining who gets elected into office.

The traditional guns, goons, and gold element of Filipino politics continue to be a real

phenomenon in certain districts, provinces, and regions particularly in the local level.

Massive election fraud and violence are employed in order to win the elections. Instances of cheating range from use of flying voters, registration of disqualified voters, vote-buying, ballot and ballot box switching, padding of votes through dagdag bawas and other forms, tampering canvass of votes, etc. Again, these practices become more detrimental to candidates who have neither the financial nor political machinery to guard the integrity of the votes and election results. However, the most powerful safeguard against election fraud is the awareness and vigilance of every voter.


9

V. Guiding Vision and Action Points for Citizen Voters

A. Vision of Good Government, Leaders and Citizen Voters The government, the leaders and the citizen voters are now faced with the challenge of advancing various reforms in the system and in attitudes and perceptions towards a system of wider and genuine participation of the grassroots in politics and governance, and towards citizen’s political maturity. • Government Advancing democratization and good governance Making available a meaningful and accessible election process Maximizing the benefits of democratic mechanisms for the interest and welfare of all sectors of society, particularly the marginalized and underrepresented sectors. Ensuring that the government agenda and programs of action are genuinely reflective of peoples’ agenda. Advocating new politics and new kind of leaders that engage the participation of citizen voters in running the affairs of the government • Leaders Capitalizing on the program of action and public service rather than on popularity in winning elections Promoting the envisioned government and engaging the citizens’ stake in governance • Citizen Voters Exercising the right to vote and the duty of guarding the integrity of the vote itself from any fraudulent maneuvering Using conscience in choosing the right leaders Safeguarding and defending the democratic mechanisms and institutions

B. Action Points Below are some action points for the citizen-voters in his/her exercise of the right of suffrage.

Pre-Elections Engage in preparatory activities that would enable him/her to exercise the right of suffrage and the right to an informed and free choice.

Register during the period allotted for voter registration Be informed of the issues, platforms and personalities of the political candidates Set specific guidelines in choosing government leaders in terms of the candidates’

social affiliations and interests, competence, lifestyle, performance records. Conduct/participate in public debates that would inform citizens and gain the

commitment of the candidates to integrate, foremost, the interests and welfare of the citizens in their program of government. This process can be used to remind and hold the elected leaders accountable to the promises made during the campaign.


10

During elections

Exercise vigilance and the right to vote

Vote according to your “informed conscience” Practice vigilance by protecting the integrity of your own vote from any undue

influence, volunteering in organizations that work for clean and peaceful elections, watching out for instances of cheating in the elections, and informing the rest of the electorate of such activities.

Post-Elections

Practice continued vigilance and participate in governance

Be vigilant in the counting and canvassing of votes Another arena of participation is open to the citizen voter once the candidates they

have voted for assume office. Participate in local governance through development planning in the barangay level,

consultations and public hearings, representation in local special bodies. Aside from direct exercise of legislative power through the system of initiative and

referendum, citizen voter can participate in legislating laws through legislative advocacy, a process of engaging with the legislature and other governmental and social institutions to ensure that the concerns and welfare of the general electorate be articulated in the deliberations of bills and other legislative measures as well as in the final versions of laws.

The citizen voter can also engage in the political and electoral process in other ways such as:

a. running for office. b. supporting/campaigning for a political party, candidate or party-list

group. c. supporting initiatives of civil society organizations to ensure honest and

peaceful elections. d. making views known to the elected representatives.

Inst

itute

for

Polit

ical

and

Ele

ctor

al R

efor

m (

IPER

), I

nc.

Ci

tizen

-Vot

er E

duca

tion

Mod

ule

/

YO

UR

VO

TE. O

UR

FU

TUR

E. C

itiz

en V

oter

Edu

cati

on M

odu

le

Ann

ex 1

The

Rig

ht

of S

uff

rage

: U

DH

R, I

CC

PR

, 19

87

Con

stit

uti

on

The

hum

an r

ight

to

vote

is e

mbo

died

in t

hree

inst

rum

ents

: U

nive

rsal

Dec

lara

tion

of H

uman

Rig

hts

(UD

HR);

the

Int

erna

tiona

l Cov

enan

t on

Civ

il an

d Po

litic

al R

ight

s; a

nd in

the

198

7 Ph

ilipp

ine

Cons

titut

ion.

The

Phi

lippi

nes

is g

over

ned

by t

hese

thr

ee d

ocum

ents

whi

ch s

imila

rly m

anda

te u

nive

rsal

ity

of t

he r

ight

; eq

ualit

y in

acc

ess

to p

ublic

ser

vice

; an

d se

crec

y of

vot

es.

Art

icle

21

(1

-3)

of t

he

Un

iver

sal

Dec

lara

tion

of

Hu

man

Rig

hts

A

rt.2

5 (

a-c)

of

Inte

rnat

ion

al

Cov

enan

t on

Civ

il an

d P

olit

ical

R

igh

ts, M

arch

19

76

A

rt. V

, Sec

. 1-2

of

The

19

87

Con

stit

uti

on

1 Ev

eryo

ne h

as t

he r

ight

to

take

par

t in

the

go

vern

men

t of

hi

s co

untr

y,

dire

ctly

or

th

roug

h fr

eely

cho

sen

repr

esen

tativ

es.

2 Ev

eryo

ne h

as t

he r

ight

to

equa

l acc

ess

to

publ

ic s

ervi

ce in

his

cou

ntry

. 3

The

will

of

the

peop

le s

hall

be t

he b

asis

of

the

auth

ority

of

th

e go

vern

men

t;

this

w

ill

shal

l be

ex

pres

sed

in p

erio

dic

and

genu

ine

elec

tions

, w

hich

sh

all b

e by

uni

vers

al a

nd e

qual

suf

frag

e an

d sh

all b

e he

ld b

y se

cret

vot

e or

by

equi

vale

nt f

ree

votin

g pr

oced

ures

.

Ever

y ci

tizen

sha

ll ha

ve t

he r

ight

and

th

e op

port

unity

, with

out

any

of t

he

dist

inct

ions

men

tione

d in

art

icle

2 a

nd

with

out

unre

ason

able

res

tric

tions

:

(a)

To t

ake

part

in t

he c

ondu

ct o

f pu

blic

aff

airs

, dire

ctly

or

thro

ugh

free

ly c

hose

n re

pres

enta

tives

;

(b)

To v

ote

and

to b

e el

ecte

d at

ge

nuin

e pe

riodi

c el

ectio

ns w

hich

sh

all b

e by

uni

vers

al a

nd e

qual

su

ffra

ge a

nd s

hall

be h

eld

by s

ecre

t ba

llot,

gua

rant

eein

g th

e fr

ee

expr

essi

on o

f th

e w

ill o

f th

e el

ecto

rs;

(c)

To h

ave

acce

ss, o

n ge

nera

l te

rms

of e

qual

ity, t

o pu

blic

ser

vice

in

his

cou

ntry

.

1 Su

ffra

ge m

ay b

e ex

erci

sed

by a

ll ci

tizen

s of

the

Phi

lippi

nes,

no

t ot

herw

ise

disq

ualif

ied

by la

w, w

ho a

re a

t le

ast

eigh

teen

ye

ars

of a

ge, a

nd w

ho s

hall

have

res

ided

in t

he P

hilip

pine

s fo

r at

leas

t on

e ye

ar a

nd in

the

pla

ce w

here

in t

hey

prop

ose

to

vote

, for

at

leas

t si

x m

onth

s im

med

iate

ly p

rece

ding

the

el

ectio

n. N

o lit

erac

y, p

rope

rty,

or

othe

r su

bsta

ntiv

e re

quire

men

t sh

all b

e im

pose

d on

the

exe

rcis

e of

suf

frag

e.

2 Th

e Co

ngre

ss s

hall

prov

ide

a sy

stem

for

sec

urin

g th

e se

crec

y an

d sa

nctit

y of

the

bal

lot

as w

ell a

s a

syst

em for

ab

sent

ee v

otin

g by

qua

lifie

d Fi

lipin

os a

broa

d.

The

Cong

ress

sha

ll al

so d

esig

n a

proc

edur

e fo

r th

e di

sabl

ed

and

the

illite

rate

s to

vot

e w

ithou

t th

e as

sist

ance

of ot

her

pers

ons.

Unt

il th

en, t

hey

shal

l be

allo

wed

to

vote

und

er

exis

ting

law

s an

d su

ch r

ules

as

the

Com

mis

sion

on

Elec

tions

m

ay p

rom

ulga

te t

o pr

otec

t th

e se

crec

y of

the

bal

lot.

Inst

itute

for

Polit

ical

and

Ele

ctor

al R

efor

m (

IPER

), I

nc.

Ci

tizen

-Vot

er E

duca

tion

Mod

ule

/

Elec

tion

s

Ann

ex 2

Year

an

d T

yp

e

Co

nte

nd

ers

Is

sues

Resu

lts

Pos

t-in

depe

nde

nce

per

iod

1946 P

resi

den

tial

,

Vic

e-Pr

esid

ential

, Congre

ssio

nal

Ele

ctio

ns

(A

pril 23,

1946)

Nac

ional

ista

Par

ty o

f Ser

gio

Osm

eña,

Sr.

Li

ber

al Pa

rty

of M

anuel

Roxa

s; a

nd

Par

tido M

oder

nis

ta o

f H

ilarion M

onca

da

Phili

ppin

e In

dep

enden

ce

Nac

ional

ista

Par

ty-L

iber

al W

ing M

anuel

Roxa

s w

on t

he

Pres

iden

cy w

hile

Elp

idio

Quirin

o w

on t

he

Vic

e-Pr

esid

ency

1947 C

ongre

ssio

nal

an

d L

oca

l el

ections

(Nove

mber

11,

1947)

Nac

ional

ista

Par

ty b

ecam

e th

e opposi

tion

The

Liber

als

wer

e det

erm

ined

to b

eat

Nac

ional

ista

on a

ll posi

tions

Som

e ca

ndid

ates

ev

en t

hre

aten

ed

vote

rs in o

rder

to

ensu

re v

icto

ry

The

win

nin

g 7

out

of 8 s

enat

ors

wer

e Li

ber

als;

37 o

f 45 g

uber

nat

orial

sea

ts w

ere

also

tak

en b

y Li

ber

al

1949 P

resi

den

tial

, Vic

e-Pr

esid

ential

, Congre

ssio

nal

Ele

ctio

ns

(N

ove

mber

8,

1949)

Liber

al P

resi

den

tial

and v

ice-

pre

siden

tial

ca

ndid

ate

Elp

idio

Quirin

o a

nd F

ernan

do

Lopez

N

acio

nal

ista

pre

siden

tial

and v

ice-

pre

siden

tial ca

ndid

ate

Jose

P.

Laure

l an

d

Man

uel

Briones

70.7

4 %

act

ual

ly v

ote

d;

Elp

idio

Quirin

o a

nd

Fern

ando L

opez

won

1951 S

enat

orial an

d

Loca

l Ele

ctio

ns

(Nove

mber

13,

1951)

Sen

atorial

Tic

ket

of th

e: N

acio

nal

ista

was

le

d b

y G

il Puya

t;

Liber

al b

y M

aria

no J

esus

Cuen

co

All

Nac

ional

ista

sen

atorial

can

did

ates

won

1953 P

resi

den

tial

, Vic

e-Pr

esid

ential

and

Congre

ssio

nal

Ele

ctio

ns

Nove

mber

10,

1953

Nac

ional

ista

Pre

siden

tial

and V

ice-

pre

siden

tial tick

et:

Ram

on M

agsa

ysay

and

Car

los

Gar

cia;

Li

ber

al Par

ty c

andid

ates

Elp

idio

Quirin

o

and J

ose

Yulo

Iden

tifica

tion o

f M

agsa

ysay

with t

he

com

mon t

ao.

Part

y sw

itch

ing

bec

ame

pre

vale

nt.

77.2

2%

act

ual

ly v

ote

d

Nac

ional

ista

sta

ndar

d b

eare

rs w

on b

y a

landsl

ide.

N

acio

nal

ista

als

o d

om

inat

ed t

he

Sen

ate

and

House

of

Rep

rese

nta

tive

s.

Sen

atorial

and L

oca

l Ele

ctio

ns

(N

ove

mber

8,

1955)

1957 P

resi

den

tial

, Vic

e-Pr

esid

ential

and

Congre

ssio

nal

Ele

ctio

ns

(Nove

mber

12,

1957)

Pres

iden

tial

can

did

ates

:

Nac

ional

ista

-Car

los

P.

Gar

cia

Liber

al – J

ose

Yulo

N

atio

nal

ist-

Citiz

ens

Part

y- C

laro

M.

Rec

to

Progre

ssiv

e Pa

rty

of t

he

Phils

.-M

anuel

M

anah

an

Liber

al-

Quirin

o W

ing-

Anto

nio

Quirin

o

Lapia

ng M

alay

a-Val

entin S

anto

s Fe

der

al P

arty

-Alfre

do A

bce

de

Man

ahan

and p

arty

use

d M

agsa

ysay

’s

cam

pai

gn

tech

niq

ues

. O

ther

s dis

cuss

ed iss

ues

of

gra

ft a

nd

corr

uption,

and

oth

er p

erso

nal

ac

cusa

tions.

75.5

2 %

act

ual

ly v

ote

d

Car

los

P. G

arci

a an

d D

iosd

ado M

acap

agal

won for

Pres

iden

t an

d V

ice-

Pres

iden

t re

spec

tive

ly.

Inst

itute

for

Polit

ical

and

Ele

ctor

al R

efor

m (

IPER

), I

nc.

Ci

tizen

-Vot

er E

duca

tion

Mod

ule

/

Year

an

d T

yp

e

Co

nte

nd

ers

Is

sues

Resu

lts

1959 S

enat

orial an

d

Loca

l Ele

ctio

ns

(Nove

mber

10,

1959)

Nac

ional

ista

and L

iber

al p

arty

hav

e th

eir

ow

n s

et o

f co

ngre

ssio

nal

ca

ndid

ates

Issu

es o

f nat

ional

ism

and

Pre

s. G

arci

a’s

“Fili

pin

o-

Firs

t Polic

y” w

hic

h w

as

consi

der

ed a

nti-A

mer

ican

81%

act

ual

ly v

ote

d;

the

Nac

ional

ista

can

did

ates

outn

um

ber

ed t

he

Liber

als

1961 P

resi

den

tial

, Vic

e-Pr

esid

ential

and

Congre

ssio

nal

Ele

ctio

ns

(Nove

mber

14,

1961)

Nac

ional

ista

Par

ty’s

Car

los

P. G

arci

a an

d G

il Puya

t Li

ber

al’s

Dio

sdad

o M

acap

agal

and

Em

man

uel

Pel

aez

The

Nac

ional

ista

see

ks

renew

al o

f peo

ple

’s

man

dat

e to

car

ry o

n its

ro

le o

f as

suring p

olit

ical

indep

enden

ce,

econom

ic

eman

cipat

ion a

nd

cultura

l re

nai

ssan

ce.

Mac

apag

al a

nd P

elae

z w

on t

he

top t

wo

seat

s

Congre

ssio

nal

and

Loca

l Ele

ctio

ns

(Nove

mber

12,

1963)

1965 P

resi

den

tial

, Vic

e-Pr

esid

ential

and

Congre

ssio

nal

Ele

ctio

ns

(Nove

mber

9,

1965)

Pre

siden

tial

and V

ice-

Pre

siden

tial

Can

did

ates

: N

acio

nal

ista

-Fer

din

and M

arco

s an

d

Fern

ando L

opez

Li

ber

al-D

iosd

ado M

acap

agal

and

Ger

ardo R

oxa

s Pa

rty

for

Phili

ppin

e Pr

ogre

ss-R

aul

Man

gla

pus

and M

anuel

Man

ahan

The

continued

ris

e in

price

s of

consu

mer

goods,

pea

ce a

nd o

rder

pro

ble

m,

ram

pan

t gra

ft

and c

orr

uption,

continued

sm

ugglin

g o

f dutiab

le g

oods

Nac

ional

ista

bet

s bes

ted t

he

oth

er c

andid

ates

for

pre

siden

t an

d v

ice-

pre

siden

t

Sen

atorial

and L

oca

l Ele

ctio

ns

(Nov

ember

14,

1967)

Pres

iden

tial

, Vic

e-Pr

esid

ential

and

Congre

ssio

nal

Ele

ctio

ns

(Nove

mber

11,

1969)

Pre

siden

tial

and V

ice-

Pre

siden

tial

Can

did

ates

: N

acio

nal

ista

-Fer

din

and M

arco

s an

d

Fern

ando L

opez

Li

ber

al-

Ser

gio

Osm

eña,

Jr.

and

Gen

aro M

agsa

ysay

The

cam

pai

gn c

an b

e ch

arac

terize

d a

s an

ex

chan

ge

of

accu

sations

and a

ttac

ks o

n iss

ues

co

nce

rnin

g n

atio

nal

ism

, la

nd r

eform

, fo

reig

n

polic

y, c

ronyi

sm,

and

gra

ft a

nd c

orru

ption.

Mar

cos

won a

nd b

ecam

e th

e firs

t RP p

resi

den

t to

be

re-e

lect

ed.

Part

y-m

ate

Fern

ando

Lopez

won

the

vice

-pre

siden

cy.

Nac

ional

ista

Par

ty a

lso w

on

maj

ority

of th

e H

ouse

sea

ts.

Ele

ctio

n o

f Conco

n D

eleg

ates

1971 C

ongre

ssio

nal

an

d L

oca

l el

ections

(Nove

mber

8,

1971)

Nac

ional

ista

and L

iber

al p

arties

wer

e th

e m

ajor

conte

nder

s Pl

aza

Miran

da

bom

bin

g

was

the

mos

t co

ntr

ove

rsia

l an

d

emotional

iss

ue.

The

senat

orial ra

ce w

as d

om

inat

ed b

y th

e Li

ber

al

candid

ates

Inst

itute

for

Polit

ical

and

Ele

ctor

al R

efor

m (

IPER

), I

nc.

Ci

tizen

-Vot

er E

duca

tion

Mod

ule

/

Y

ear

an

d T

yp

e

Co

nte

nd

ers

Is

sues

Resu

lts

Mar

tial

Law

Per

iod

1978 I

nte

rm B

atas

ang

Pam

ban

sa

KBL-

adm

inis

trat

ion p

arty

ESP,

Lab

an,

Phili

ppin

e La

bor

Part

y, B

agong L

ipunan

-Kilu

san

ng N

agka

kais

ag N

acio

nal

ista

, In

dep

enden

ts

Dec

lara

tion o

f m

artial

law

, so

cial

just

ice,

pac

e an

d o

rder

, ec

onom

ic r

ecove

ry

The

elec

tions

“def

ied d

emocr

atic

pro

cedure

s”.

Var

ious

elec

tora

l m

anip

ula

tions

wer

e em

plo

yed t

o

ensu

re M

arco

s vi

ctory

.

1980 L

oca

l el

ections

KBL-

adm

inis

trat

ion p

arty

La

ban

, N

UL,

Min

dan

ao A

llian

ce

Char

acte

rize

d b

y w

ides

pre

ad

terr

orism

, vi

ole

nce

and

whole

sale

fra

ud

94%

guber

nat

orial

and 9

1%

m

ayora

l vi

ctory

for

the

KBL

Pos

t-M

arti

al L

aw P

erio

d 1981 P

resi

den

tial

Ele

ctio

ns

and

Ref

eren

dum

(J

une

16,

1981)

Can

did

ates

fro

m t

he

KBL,

Nac

ional

ista

, Fe

der

al P

arty

, Sove

reig

n C

itiz

en P

arty

, an

d indep

enden

ts

It w

as a

mov

e by

Mar

cos

to

subm

it h

imse

lf t

o t

he

elec

tora

l pro

cess

to r

egai

n

legitim

acy

for

his

ad

min

istr

atio

n;

a re

leva

nt

Pres

iden

tial

Pro

clam

atio

n

was

iss

ued

whic

h lim

ited

the

cam

pai

gn d

ays

and c

han

ged

th

e ag

e re

quirem

ent

for

pre

siden

tial ca

ndid

ate

from

45 t

o 5

0 y

ears

; su

ch

pre

vente

d N

inoy

Aquin

o t

o

run for

pre

siden

t

Mar

cos

won b

y a

landsl

ide

This

ele

ctio

n w

as d

escr

ibed

as

the

“most

leg

ally

-bia

sed e

lect

ions

as

the

Procl

amat

ion w

as d

esig

ned

to

ensu

re v

icto

ry f

or

Mar

cos”

.

1982 B

aran

gay

Ele

ctio

n

Des

pite

the

suppose

d n

on-p

artisa

n

char

acte

r of

hte

ele

ctio

n,

the

KBL

was

ve

ry invo

lved

in t

he

elec

tion

The

elec

tion w

as g

ener

ally

pea

cefu

l

1984 B

atas

ang

Pam

ban

sa

Ele

ctio

ns

(May

14,

1984)

KBL,

United

Nat

ional

ist

Dem

ocr

aic

Ogan

izat

ion (

UN

IDO

) an

affili

ate

of

oth

er p

arties

, Li

ber

al P

arty

, La

ban

, Pa

rtid

o n

g D

emoka

tiko

ng P

ilipin

o,

Nac

ional

ista

Par

ty

UN

IDO

-Aquin

o a

ssas

sinat

ion

and t

he

wors

enin

g p

olit

ical

, so

cial

, an

d e

conom

ic

conditio

ns

KBL-

acco

mplis

hm

ents

of

the

Mar

cos

adm

inis

trat

ion

Unid

o w

on 5

0 B

atas

ang P

amban

sa

seat

s w

hile

KBL

won 1

16 s

eats

Inst

itute

for

Polit

ical

and

Ele

ctor

al R

efor

m (

IPER

), I

nc.

Ci

tizen

-Vot

er E

duca

tion

Mod

ule

/

Y

ear

an

d T

yp

e

Co

nte

nd

ers

Is

sues

Resu

lts

1986 S

nap

Pr

esid

ential

and

Vic

e-Pr

esid

ential

Ele

ctio

ns

KBL

‘s F

erdin

and M

arco

s-Art

uro

Tole

ntino a

nd

the

UN

IDO

-LABAN

Coal

itio

n’s

Cory

Aquin

o-S

alva

dor

Laure

l

KBL’

s sl

ogan

“Cory

wal

ang

alam

” pla

yed o

n C

ory

’s

inex

per

ience

while

Aquin

o’s

sl

ogan

“Tam

a na,

Sobra

Na,

Pal

itan

Na”

bec

ame

the

rally

ing e

vent

on t

he

day

M

arco

s w

as o

ust

ed

Com

elec

dec

lare

d M

arco

s an

d

Tole

ntino a

s w

inner

s w

hile

Nam

frel

co

unt

reflec

ted A

quin

o a

nd L

aure

l’s

vict

ory

. In

stan

ces

of

elec

tion

irre

gula

rities

wer

e re

por

ted:

case

s of

mis

sing v

ote

rs’ nam

es,

bal

lot

snat

chin

g,

mis

sing v

ote

rs’ lis

t an

d

voting m

ater

ials

, ca

ses

of

elec

tion

viole

nce

.

Due

to t

he

People

Pow

er U

prisi

ng

at E

DSA a

nd p

ress

ure

fro

m U

S

gove

rnm

ent,

Mar

cos

was

ove

rthro

wn fro

m M

alac

añan

g a

nd

left

for

Haw

aii.

Pos

t-ED

SA P

erio

d 1987

Congre

ssio

nal

Ele

ctio

ns

(May

11,

1987)

LABAN

(La

kas

ng B

ayan

) co

alitio

n

com

pose

d o

f PD

P-La

ban

, U

nited

N

atio

nal

ist

Dem

ocr

atic

org

aniz

atio

n

(UN

IDO

), L

iber

al P

arty

-Sal

onga

Win

g,

Nat

ional

Unio

n o

f Christ

ian D

emocr

ats

(NU

CD

), P

artido D

emokr

atik

o

Sosy

alis

ta n

g P

ilipin

as (

PD

SP)

and

Ban

dila

, an

alli

ance

of

moder

ate

cause

orien

ted g

roups.

Show

ed t

he

emer

gen

ce o

f th

e per

sonal

ity-

orien

ted

cam

pai

gn s

tyle

The

popula

rity

of M

rs.

Aquin

o

agai

nst

Mar

cos

dra

ined

the

elec

tora

l ca

mpai

gn o

f si

gnific

ant

issu

es.

85.5

% v

otin

g t

urn

out

indic

ated

th

e le

vel of

polit

ical

consc

iousn

ess

that

to e

nfo

rce

a dem

ocr

atic

sy

stem

whic

h w

ill g

uar

ante

e fr

eedom

and d

emocr

acy.

The

“Cory

coal

itio

n”

won

by

a la

ndsl

ide.

1988 L

oca

l el

ections

(Jan

uar

y 18,

1988)

Can

did

ates

fro

m P

DP_

Laban

, KBL,

PD

P-La

ban

-Lak

as n

g B

ansa

, PD

P, B

iled

Ti La

Unio

n,

Nac

ional

ista

Par

ty,

Bal

ane,

PD

P-La

ban

-Lib

eral

Par

ty,

Mag

adal

o,

Cory

Coal

itio

n,

Nat

ional

Unio

n o

f Christ

ian D

emocr

ats,

Indep

enden

t N

acio

nal

ista

ALL

IEN

, La

ban

, Pan

aghin

sa,

CCA-U

nid

o,

Par

tido

Dem

okr

asya

Sosy

alis

ta,

OM

PIA

Par

ty,

Tim

awa

Part

y an

d U

nid

o-L

P-La

ban

, an

d

Indep

enden

ts

Less

fra

udule

nt

than

the

congre

ssio

nal

ele

ctio

ns.

The

rulin

g p

arty

has

lim

ited

ca

pac

ity

for

whole

sale

fra

ud.

Vig

ilance

of

the

elec

tora

te,

med

ia a

nd o

pposi

tionis

ts

safe

guar

ded

the

exer

cise

fr

om

man

ipula

tion.

Although e

lect

ions

in “

hot

spots

wer

e post

poned

by

Com

elec

to p

reve

nt

poss

ible

vi

ole

nt

enco

unte

rs b

etw

een

riva

ls.

Most

of

the

candid

ates

anoin

ted b

y Cory

Aquin

o w

on t

he

support

of

the

maj

ority

of th

e el

ecto

rate

Inst

itute

for

Polit

ical

and

Ele

ctor

al R

efor

m (

IPER

), I

nc.

Ci

tizen

-Vot

er E

duca

tion

Mod

ule

/

Year

an

d T

yp

e

Co

nte

nd

ers

Is

sues

Resu

lts

1989 B

aran

gay

ele

ctio

ns

(M

arch

28,

1989)

Voting t

urn

out

was

only

67.4

5 %

1992

Syn

chro

niz

ed

pre

siden

tial,

Congre

ssio

nal

and

Loca

l Ele

ctio

ns

(M

ay 1

1,

1992)

Sev

en c

andid

ates

com

pet

ed f

or

the

top p

ost

:

Nac

ional

ista

Par

ty-S

alva

dor

Laure

l Li

ber

al Par

ty-J

ovi

to S

alonga

Laban

ng D

emokr

atriko

ng P

ilipin

o

(LD

P)-

Ram

on V

. M

itra

La

kas-

NU

CD

-Fid

el V

. Ram

os

Nat

ional

ist

Peo

ple

’s C

oalit

ion (

NPC

)-Eduar

do

Coj

uan

gco

Pe

ople

’s R

eform

Par

ty-M

iria

m

Def

enso

r San

tiag

o

Kilu

sang B

agong L

ipunan

-Im

elda

Mar

cos

Eco

nom

ic r

eform

, polit

ical

st

abili

ty,

clea

n g

ove

rnm

ent,

an

d s

oci

al just

ice

wer

e th

e m

ain iss

ues

of

the

cam

pai

gn.

“Tra

po”

or

trad

itio

nal polit

ics

and p

olit

icia

ns

was

the

centr

al iss

ue

at t

hat

tim

e.

Fidel

V.

Ram

os

bes

ted t

he

other

ca

ndid

ates

for

the

pre

siden

cy

1992 S

K E

lect

ions

(D

ecem

ber

4,

1992)

1994 B

aran

gay

Ele

ctio

ns

(M

ay 9

, 1994)

1995

Congre

ssio

nal

and

Loca

l Ele

ctio

ns

(M

ay 8

, 1995)

The

adm

inis

trat

ion p

arty

Lak

as-N

UCD

an

d o

pposi

tion p

arty

LD

P co

ales

ced t

o

fiel

d c

om

mon c

ongre

ssio

nal

ca

ndid

ates

; N

PC a

s w

ell as

PRP

fiel

ded

th

eir

ow

n c

andid

ates

too.

The

elec

tions

resu

lted

in L

akas

-La

ban

Coal

itio

n g

etting m

ajority

of

the

seat

s

1996 S

K E

lect

ions

(

May

6,

1996)

1996 A

RM

M E

lect

ions

for

Gove

rnor

and V

ice-

Gove

rnor

(Sep

tem

ber

9,

1996)

Laka

s N

UCD

-UM

DP

candid

ates

: P

arouk

S.

Huss

in a

nd M

ahid

M.

Mutila

n w

on t

he

guber

nat

orial an

d

vice

-guber

nat

orial

sea

ts

resp

ective

ly.

1997 B

aran

gay

Ele

ctio

ns

(May

12,

1997)

Inst

itute

for

Polit

ical

and

Ele

ctor

al R

efor

m (

IPER

), I

nc.

Ci

tizen

-Vot

er E

duca

tion

Mod

ule

/

Year

an

d T

yp

e

Co

nte

nd

ers

Is

sues

Resu

lts

1998 P

resi

den

tial

, Vic

e-Pr

esid

ential

an

d C

ongre

ssio

nal

Ele

ctio

ns

(M

ay 1

1,

1998)

Pres

iden

tial

Can

did

ates

Pa

rtid

o M

asan

g P

ilipin

o-J

ose

ph

Est

rada

-J

ose

de

Ven

ecia

-R

enat

o D

e Vill

a -S

antiag

o D

um

lao

-Juan

Pon

ce E

nrile

-A

lfre

do L

im

-Im

elda

Mar

cos

-Man

olin

g M

ora

to

-Lito O

smen

a -R

aul Roco

-M

iria

m D

efen

sor-

San

tiag

o

Firs

t par

ty-l

ist

elec

tions

Appar

ent

vict

ory

for

candid

ates

with “

cele

brity

st

atus”

or

asso

ciat

ed w

ith

“cel

ebrities

”

Jose

ph E

jerc

ito E

stra

da

won o

ver

the

oth

er c

andid

ates

, w

hile

Glo

ria

Mac

apag

al-A

rroyo

won t

he

vice

-pre

siden

cy

2001

Congre

ssio

nal

and

Loca

l Ele

ctio

ns

(M

ay 1

4,

2001)

Pe

ople

Pow

er I

I/ED

SA D

os

Cal

l fo

r good g

ove

rnan

ce

A m

ix o

f in

dep

enden

t an

d L

AKAS-

NU

CD

-UM

DP

candid

ates

won

se

nat

orial

sea

ts.

LDP

got

2 s

eats

w

hile

PD

P-La

ban

and L

iber

al P

arty

ea

ch f

ield

ed 1

. 2002 S

ynch

roniz

ed B

aran

gay

and S

K E

lect

ions

(July

15,

2002)

Th

is m

atrix

of H

isto

ry o

f Ph

ilipp

ine

Elec

tions

is c

onso

lidat

ed f

rom

Car

los,

C.R

. and

Ban

laoi

, RC.

(19

96).

Ele

ctio

ns in

the

Phili

ppin

es F

rom

Pre

-col

onia

l Per

iod

to th

e Pr

esen

t. w

ww

.com

elec

.gov

.ph

, an

d M

aam

bong

, Reg

alad

o. O

utlin

e an

d St

udy

Gui

de o

n El

ectio

n La

w.

Inst

itute

for

Polit

ical

and

Ele

ctor

al R

efor

m (

IPER

), I

nc.

Ci

tizen

-Vot

er E

duca

tion

Mod

ule

/

Elec

tion

s an

d D

emoc

racy

Th

e Co

nstit

utio

n gu

aran

tees

tha

t w

e ar

e a

sove

reig

n pe

ople

, whe

re a

ll go

vern

men

t au

thor

ity c

omes

fro

m. S

over

eign

ty o

r th

e po

wer

to

gove

rn is

exe

rcis

ed d

irect

ly t

hrou

gh

suff

rage

and

indi

rect

ly t

hrou

gh p

ublic

off

icia

ls e

lect

ed b

y th

e pe

ople

. The

will

of

the

peop

le, t

hen,

is b

est

expr

esse

d in

cle

an, o

rder

ly a

nd h

ones

t el

ectio

n.

The

repr

esen

tativ

e de

moc

ratic

str

uctu

re,

in w

hich

the

peo

ple

gove

rn t

hrou

gh e

lect

ed r

epre

sent

ativ

es,

is b

ased

on

the

idea

of

“con

sent

of

the

gove

rned

”. T

hus,

the

go

vern

men

t of

ficia

ls c

hose

n an

d el

ecte

d by

the

peo

ple

beco

me

serv

ants

and

not

mas

ters

of

the

peop

le f

rom

who

m a

nd f

or w

hom

the

se o

ffic

ials

exe

rcis

e th

eir

pow

er a

nd

auth

ority

.

Th

e ci

tizen

vot

ers

are

entit

led

to f

ree

and

info

rmed

cho

ice

on w

hom

to

vote

and

mus

t be

dic

tate

d by

the

gen

uine

wel

fare

of

the

maj

ority

.

Ever

y in

divi

dual

pol

itica

l cho

ices

an

d de

cisi

ons

mad

e by

the

citi

zen

vote

rs w

ill d

eter

min

e th

e ki

nd o

f go

vern

men

t th

at w

ill s

erve

the

m.

Spec

ific

Mec

hani

sms

Si

nce

the

enac

tmen

t of

the

198

7 Co

nstit

utio

n, e

lect

ions

for

Pre

side

nt a

nd V

ice-

pres

iden

t ar

e he

ld e

very

six

yea

rs, w

hile

ele

ctio

ns f

or S

enat

ors

and

mem

bers

of

the

Hou

se o

f Rep

rese

ntat

ives

and

loca

l gov

ernm

ent

offic

ials

hap

pen

ever

y th

ree

year

s.

At

the

loca

l lev

el, b

aran

gay

elec

tions

and

San

ggun

iang

Kab

ataa

n el

ectio

ns a

re a

lso

held

per

iodi

cally

.

In

199

3 an

d 19

96,

elec

tions

for

the

Aut

onom

ous

Reg

ion

of M

uslim

Min

dana

o (A

RM

M)

wer

e he

ld.

The

1996

ARM

M e

lect

ions

als

o se

rved

as

pilo

t-te

st f

or a

utom

ated

sys

tem

of

ele

ctio

ns.

As

ide

from

vot

ing,

our

Con

stitu

tion

man

date

s ot

her

mec

hani

sms

to a

dvan

ce d

emoc

ratiz

atio

n an

d ci

tizen

’s s

take

in g

over

nanc

e.

The

syst

em o

f in

itiat

ive

and

refe

rend

um g

ives

the

peo

ple

pow

er t

o di

rect

ly e

nact

, pro

pose

and

rej

ect

law

s at

the

loca

l lev

el.

Al

so t

hrou

gh in

itiat

ive,

the

peo

ple

may

dire

ctly

pro

pose

am

endm

ents

to th

e C

onst

itutio

n by

a p

etiti

on o

f at l

east

12%

of t

he to

tal n

umbe

r of r

egis

tere

d vo

ters

, in

whi

ch 3

% o

f re

gist

ered

vot

ers

is re

pres

ente

d in

eac

h le

gisl

ativ

e di

stric

t.

Thro

ugh

pleb

isci

tes,

the

peo

ple

appr

ove

or r

ejec

t th

e ca

ll fo

r a

cons

titut

iona

l con

vent

ion

to p

ropo

se c

hang

es t

o th

e Co

nstit

utio

n, a

ppro

ve o

r re

ject

pro

pose

d ch

ange

s in

the

Co

nstit

utio

n an

d, a

t th

e lo

cal l

evel

, exp

ress

the

ir w

ill w

ith r

espe

ct t

o ce

rtai

n lo

cal i

ssue

s.

The

part

y-lis

t sy

stem

of

repr

esen

tatio

n al

low

s fo

r m

argi

naliz

ed a

nd u

nder

repr

esen

ted

sect

ors

to b

e re

pres

ente

d in

the

nat

iona

l leg

isla

ture

. The

sys

tem

ser

ves

as a

n at

tem

pt

to d

epar

t fr

om t

he p

erso

nalis

tic c

hara

cter

of

polit

ical

and

ele

ctor

al s

yste

m b

y gi

ving

foc

us o

n th

e pa

rty

and

its is

sue-

base

d pl

atfo

rm.

The

Cons

titut

ion

and

the

1991

Loc

al G

over

nmen

t Co

de (

LGC)

man

date

sec

tora

l rep

rese

ntat

ion

in t

he le

gisl

ativ

e bo

dies

of

loca

l gov

ernm

ents

.

Pe

ople

par

ticip

atio

n is

als

o pr

ovid

ed f

or b

y th

e Lo

cal G

over

nmen

t Co

de t

hrou

gh r

epre

sent

atio

n in

con

sulta

tive

bodi

es s

uch

as t

he lo

cal h

ealth

boa

rds,

loca

l sch

ool b

oard

s,

loca

l pea

ce a

nd o

rder

cou

ncils

and

loca

l dev

elop

men

t co

unci

ls in

all

loca

l lev

els.

Ther

e is

als

o th

e LG

C-m

anda

ted

bara

ngay

ass

embl

y (p

eopl

es’ a

ssem

bly

or m

eetin

g of

all

over

-15-

year

-old

-res

iden

ts o

f the

bar

anga

y).

The

asse

mbl

y ha

s th

e po

wer

to

hear

an

d pa

ss u

pon

the

repo

rt o

f Sa

nggu

nian

g Ba

rang

ay’s

(SB

) pe

rfor

man

ce. I

t ca

n al

so r

ecom

men

d m

easu

res

for

legi

slat

ion

by S

B.

The

Bara

ngay

Ass

embl

y is

one

man

ifest

atio

n of

peo

ple’

s po

wer

and

a (

trul

y) d

irect

and

par

ticip

ator

y de

moc

ratic

exe

rcis

e.

The

late

st d

evel

opm

ent

in u

phol

ding

the

rig

ht o

f su

ffra

ge is

Rep

ublic

Act

918

9, w

hich

pro

vide

s fo

r a

syst

em o

f ab

sent

ee v

otin

g fo

r qu

alifi

ed F

ilipi

nos

abro

ad.

Inst

itute

for

Polit

ical

and

Ele

ctor

al R

efor

m (

IPER

), I

nc.

Ci

tizen

-Vot

er E

duca

tion

Mod

ule

/

Po

wer

s an

d Fu

nctio

ns o

f El

ectiv

e O

ffic

ials

An

nex

3

N

atio

nal

Lev

el

Pro

vin

cial

leve

l M

un

icip

al/C

ity

leve

l B

aran

gay

Leve

l Ex

ecu

tive

-P

resi

dent

(V

ice

Pres

iden

t)

-Gov

erno

r

-City

/Mun

icip

al M

ayor

-Pun

ong

Bara

ngay

(PB

)

Legi

slat

ive

-12

Sena

tors

-1

D

istr

ict

Repr

esen

tativ

e or

Co

ngre

ssm

an/w

oman

-(

1 Pa

rty-

list

grou

p).

-Vic

e G

over

nor

-San

ggun

iang

Pa

nlal

awig

an

Mem

ber

-City

/Mun

icip

al V

ice-

May

or

-Mem

bers

of

the

Sann

guni

ang

Panl

unso

d (C

ityCo

unci

lors

) /S

angg

unia

ng

Pam

baya

n (M

unic

ipal

Cou

ncilo

rs)

-PB,

Mem

bers

of

the

sang

guni

ang

bara

ngay

(b

aran

gay

kaga

wad

and

sa

nggu

nian

g ka

bata

an

chai

r)

P

ower

s an

d Fu

nct

ion

s Ex

ecu

tive

: Th

e ex

ecut

ive

pow

er

shal

l be

vest

ed in

th

e P

resi

den

t of

th

e Ph

ilipp

ines

. (Ar

t VI

I Se

c 1)

1. A

ppoi

nt t

he h

eads

of

the

exec

utiv

e de

part

men

ts, a

mba

ssad

ors,

oth

er p

ublic

min

iste

rs a

nd c

onsu

ls, o

r of

ficer

s of

the

arm

ed f

orce

s fr

om t

he r

ank

of c

olon

el o

r na

val c

apta

in, a

nd o

ther

off

icer

s. (

Art

VII

Sec.

16)

2.

The

Pre

side

nt s

hall

have

con

trol

of

all t

he e

xecu

tive

depa

rtm

ents

, bur

eaus

, and

off

ices

. He

shal

l ens

ure

that

the

law

s be

fai

thfu

lly

exec

uted

. (Ar

t VI

I Se

c. 1

7)

3. T

he P

resi

dent

sha

ll be

the

Com

man

der-

in-C

hief

of al

l arm

ed f

orce

s of

the

Phi

lippi

nes.

(Ar

t VI

I Se

c. 1

8)

4. S

uspe

nd t

he p

rivile

ge o

f th

e w

rit o

f ha

beas

cor

pus

or p

lace

the

Phi

lippi

nes

or a

ny p

art

ther

eof

unde

r m

artia

l law

. (Ar

t VI

I Se

c. 1

8)

5. G

rant

rep

rieve

s, a

mne

sty,

com

mut

atio

ns, a

nd p

ardo

ns, a

nd r

emit

fines

and

for

feitu

res.

(Ar

t VI

I Se

c. 1

9)

6. C

ontr

act

or g

uara

ntee

for

eign

loan

s. (

Art

VII

Sec.

20)

7.

Sub

mits

bas

is o

f th

e ge

nera

l app

ropr

iatio

ns b

ill, a

bud

get

of e

xpen

ditu

res

and

sour

ces

of f

inan

cing

. (Ar

t VI

I Se

c. 2

2)

8. T

he P

resi

dent

sha

ll ha

ve t

he p

ower

to

veto

any

par

ticul

ar it

em o

r ite

ms

in a

n ap

prop

riatio

n, r

even

ue, o

r ta

riff

bill.

(Ar

t VI

Sec

. 27)

Le

gisl

ativ

e:

The

legi

slat

ive

pow

er

shal

l be

vest

ed in

th

e C

ongr

ess

of

the

Ph

ilipp

ines

w

hich

sha

ll co

nsis

t of

a

Sena

te a

nd a

H

ouse

of

Rep

rese

ntat

ives

, ex

cept

to

the

exte

nt

rese

rved

to

the

peop

le b

y th

e pr

ovis

ion

on

initi

ativ

e an

d re

fere

ndum

. (Ar

t VI

Se

c 1)

Pow

ers

and

Fun

ctio

ns

1. S

tatu

te-m

akin

g

2. C

onst

itutio

n M

akin

g an

d Am

endi

ng

3. E

lect

oral

Fun

ctio

n (A

rt V

I Se

c 16

)

- Th

e Se

nate

sha

ll el

ect

its P

resi

dent

and

the

Hou

se o

f Rep

rese

ntat

ives

, its

Spe

aker

, by

a m

ajor

ity v

ote

of a

ll its

res

pect

ive

Mem

bers

. 4.

Fin

anci

al (

Appr

opria

tions

) Fu

nctio

n (A

rt V

I Se

c. 2

4)

-All

appr

opria

tion,

rev

enue

or

tarif

f bi

lls, b

ills

auth

oriz

ing

incr

ease

of

the

publ

ic d

ebt,

bill

s of

loca

l app

licat

ion,

and

priv

ate

bills

, sha

ll or

igin

ate

excl

usiv

ely

in t

he H

ouse

of Rep

rese

ntat

ives

, but

the

Sen

ate

may

pro

pose

or

conc

ur w

ith a

men

dmen

ts.

5. J

udic

ial F

unct

ion

(Art

VII

I Se

c 2)

-

The

Cong

ress

sha

ll ha

ve t

he p

ower

to

defin

e, p

resc

ribe,

and

app

ortio

n th

e ju

risdi

ctio

n of

var

ious

cou

rts

but

may

not

dep

rive

the

Supr

eme

Cour

t of

its

juris

dict

ion

over

cas

es.

- H

ouse

of

Rep

rese

ntat

ive

may

impe

ach

any

civi

l off

icer

of

the

natio

nal G

over

nmen

t.

6. I

nfor

mat

iona

l Fun

ctio

n (A

rt V

I Se

c 21

) -

The

Sena

te o

r th

e H

ouse

of

Rep

rese

ntat

ives

or

any

of it

s re

spec

tive

com

mitt

ees

may

con

duct

inqu

iries

in a

id o

f le

gisl

atio

n in

ac

cord

ance

with

its

duly

pub

lishe

d ru

les

of p

roce

dure

. 7.

Ove

rsig

ht F

unct

ion

Inst

itute

for

Polit

ical

and

Ele

ctor

al R

efor

m (

IPER

), I

nc.

Ci

tizen

-Vot

er E

duca

tion

Mod

ule

/

El

ecti

on P

roce

ss

A

nnex

4

R

EGIS

TRA

TIO

N

ELEC

TIO

N D

AY

C

AN

VA

SSIN

G A

ND

PR

OC

LAM

ATI

ON

R

evis

ion

Day

(R

evis

ion

of

List

of

Vot

ers)

Li

st o

f V

oter

s

R

egis

trat

ion

Day

Cas

tin

g of

Vot

es

C

oun

tin

g of

Vot

es

Pre

para

tion

of

Elec

tion

R

etu

rns

and

oth

er

Rep

orts

Dis

trib

uti

on o

f El

ecti

on

Ret

urn

s

B

oard

of

Can

vass

ers

(For

Pre

side

nt

and

Vic

e-P

resi

den

t)

Pro

clam

atio

n o

f w

inn

ing

can

dida

tes

Boa

rd o

f C

anva

sser

s (F

or S

enat

ors)

Boa

rd o

f C

anva

sser

s (P

rov’

l/C

ity/

Dis

tric

t/M

un

icip

alit

y)

Pro

clam

atio

n o

f w

inn

ing

can

dida

tes

Pro

clam

atio

n o

f w

inn

ing

can

dida

tes

Inst

itute

for

Polit

ical

and

Ele

ctor

al R

efor

m (

IPER

), I

nc.

Ci

tizen

-Vot

er E

duca

tion

Mod

ule

/

Institute for Political and Electoral Reform (IPER), Inc. Citizen-Voter Education Module /

References: Carlos, C.R. and Banlaoi, RC. (1996). Elections in the Philippines From Pre-colonial Period to the Present. Commission on Elections. (1998). General Instructions on the General Registration of Voters (Including RA 8189).

Consortium on Electoral Reforms and Institute for Political Reform. (1997). Education Campaign for Clean Elections and Good Governance.

Franco, Ernesto A. (n.d.) A How-to-Book for Trainers and Teachers TRAINING. Metro Manila. Institute for Political and Electoral Reform. (1992). Pagsasanay Pang-Instruktor para sa Batayang Edukasyong Pambotante Training Kit. Quezon City. 151 pp. Maambong, Regalado. (n.d.). Outline and Study Guide on Election Law. Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV). (n.d.). Pollwatching Manual. National Secretariat for Social Action, Justice and Peace(NASSA-JP). (2001). Modules I-III. Nolledo, Jose N. (1993). The Local Government Code of 1991. Annotated. Institute for Political and Electoral Reform. (2002). Documentation and Workshop Results of Citizen-Voter Education Module-Building Project. Workshops held on 21 October 2002 at Imperial Palace Suites, Quezon City and 21 November 2002 at Richmonde Hotel, Mandaluyong City. Institute for Political and Electoral Reform. (2003). Documentation and Workshop Results of Sectoral Citizen-Voter Education Module-Building Project. Workshops held on 17-18December 2002 at Calamba, Laguna and on 3-4 February 2003 at Quezon City. Institute for Political and Electoral Reform. (2003). Documentation of the 2003 National Voters’ Education Summit. Summit held on 26-28 May 2003 at Bayview Park Hotel, Roxas Boulevard, Manila. Institute for Political and Electoral Reform. (2003). Initial Findings of the (Update) Psychographics Study on Voting Behavior. National Movement for Free and Honest Elections (NAMFREL). (2001). Curious Practices in Philippine Elections. Retrieved 16 October 2002 from http://www.namfrel.org/Pdf/2001OrganizingManual/2001manual2.pdf

Universal Declaration of Human Rights. International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. 1987 Philippine Constitution. Republic Act 7941. Party-List System Act. Republic Act 8436. Election Modernization Act of 1997. Republic Act 9600. Fair Election Act. Republic Act 9189. Overseas Absentee Voting Act of 2003. X-COM. (1998). Politico-Everyman’s Guide to Philippine Elections: Interactive CD-ROM. Quezon City. www.comelec.gov.ph www.iper.org.ph; www.cer.org.ph

TNA (English)/ 1

PARTICIPANT’S TRAINING NEEDS DATA SHEET

CITIZEN-VOTER EDUCATION

To the participant:

This is not an examination of your skills and abilities. Please answer the questions to the best of your knowledge. Do not skip any of the questions; write “N/A” if the question is not applicable to you. THANK YOU.

I. Personal Information Name: ________________________________________ Gender: _______ Birth date: ________________________ Civil status: _________________ Address / Tel. #: __________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ Highest Educational attainment: ______________________________________ Present Organizational Affiliation / Designation: __________________________ ________________________________________________________________ Short description of Tasks and Responsibilities in the Organization: ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ II. Right of Suffrage and History of Elections

1. How does a person gain the right to vote? ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________

2. What laws provide for the right to suffrage? ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________

TNA (English)/ 2

3. Give your brief account of the history of Philippine Elections.

____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________

III. Elections and Democracy

1. What is the relationship of Elections and Democracy? ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________

2. What other mechanisms (aside from voting for elected officials) are available

for the citizens to participate in governance? ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________

IV. Election Process and Government Structures

1. What national elective positions do people vote for? ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________

TNA (English)/ 3

2. What are the functions of these positions? ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________

3. What local elective positions do people vote for?

____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________

4. What are the functions of these positions?

____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________

5. Describe how you participate in the elections (process).

____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________

TNA (English)/ 4

6. Have you heard about the Election Modernization Program, particularly the Automated Canvassing System? What do you know about it? ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________

7. Have you heard about the Absentee Voting? What do you know about it?

____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________

V. Voter Behavior, Elections and Governance

1. How do you choose the candidate you vote for? ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________

2. What are the characteristics that you look for in a candidate (for elected

positions at the national level)? Why? ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________

TNA (English)/ 5

3. What are the characteristics that you look for in a candidate (for elected positions at the local level)? Why? ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________

4. Do you still value your vote? Why?

____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________

VI. Related Training Attended (voters’ education or any other election related)

Title of Training Year Sponsoring Organization

TNA (English)/ 6

VI. Expectations 1. What topics/subject matter would like to be emphasized in this training? _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ 2. What are your other expectations from this training (ex. Resource Persons, methods, venue, etc.)? _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

THANK YOU AGAIN. Hope to see you during the Training.

TNA (Filipino)/ 1

PARTICIPANT’S TRAINING NEEDS DATA SHEET

CITIZEN VOTER EDUCATION Para sa kalahok:

Ang mga sumusunod na katanungan ay hindi pagsusulit ng inyong kaalaman at kakayahan. Maari po sanang sagutan sa abot ng inyong makakaya. Huwag lagtawan ang mga tanong, isulat ang “N/A” sa mga puwang kung hindi angkop sa inyo ang katanugan. Maraming salamat.

I. PERSONAL INFORMATION Pangalan: _______________________________________ Kasarian: _______ Edad: ________________________ Estado sibil: _________________ Tirahan at Telepono: _______________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ Natapos na pag-aaral (Pinakamataas na antas): _________________________ Organisasyon / posisyon: ___________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ II. KARAPATAN SA PAGBOTO AT KASAYSAYAN NG ELEKSYON

1. Paano nagkakaroon ng karapatan ang isang tao bumoto sa eleksyon? ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________

2. Anu-anong mga batas ang nagbibigay ng karapatang bumoto? ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________

TNA (Filipino)/ 2

3. Magbigay ng maikling salaysay ukol sa kasaysayan ng eleksyon sa

Pilipinas. ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________

III. ELEKSYON AT DEMOKRASYA

1. Ano sa tingin ninyo ang relasyon ng eleksyon at demokrasya? ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________

2. Ano sa tingin ninyo ang iba pang pamamaraan (maliban sa pagboto sa

opisyales ng pamahalaan) ng pakikilahok ng mamamayan sa pag-gogobyerno? ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________

IV. PROSESO NG ELEKSYON AT ISTRUKTURA NG PAMAHALAAN 1. Anu-anong mga pambansang posisyon ang inihahalal?

____________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________

TNA (Filipino)/ 3

2. Anu-ano ang mga gawain ng mga posisyon na ito?

____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________

3. Anu-anong mga panglokal na posisyon ang inihahalal?

____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________

4. Anu-anong mga gawain ng mga posisyon na ito?

____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________

5. Magbigay ng maikling paglalarawan ng pamamaraan ng pagboto (proseso ng

eleksyon). ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________

TNA (Filipino)/ 4

6. Napag-alaman niyo na ba ang Election Modernization Program ng Comelec?

Ano ang alam niyo tungkol dito?

____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________

7. Napag-alaman niyo na ba ang Absentee Voting? Ano ang alam niyo tungkol

dito? ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________

V. UGALI SA PAGBOTO, ELEKSYON AT PAMAMAHALA

1. Paano kayo pumipili ng kandidatong iboboto ninyo? Ano ang mga nakakaimpluwensiya sa pagpili niyo? ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________

2. Anu-anong mga katangian ang hinahanap niyo sa kandidatong tumatakbo

para sa pambansang posisyon? Bakit? ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________

TNA (Filipino)/ 5

3. Anu-anong mga katangian ang hinahanap niyo sa kandidatong tumatakbo para sa panglokal na posisyon? Bakit? ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________

4. Pinapahalagahan ninyo pa ba ang inyong boto? Sagrado pa ba ito para sa

inyo? Bakit? ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________

VI. MGA PAGSASANAY NA NADALUHAN (VOTERS’ EDUCATION O IBA PANG MAY RELASYON SA ELEKSYON)

Pamagat ng Pagsasanay Taon Organisasyon na nagbigay

TNA (Filipino)/ 6

VI. INAASAHAN 1. Anu-anong mga paksa ang gusto ninyong mabigyang diin sa pagsasanay na ito? _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ 2. Ano pa ang iba ninyo pang inaasahan para sa pagsasanay na ito (halimbawa: sa Tagapagpadaloy, pamamaraan, lugar na pagdadausan, atbp.)? _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________

Maraming Salamat. Magkita Po Tayo sa Darating na Pagsasanay.

Citizen-Voter Education Evaluation Form / 1

<Organization Logo or Letterhead>

Pagtatasa sa Tagapagsanay/Tagapagsalita Pamagat ng Kurso/ Pagsasanay: Citizen Voter Education Pangalan ng Tagapagsalita:______________________________________________________

Kalakasan

Kahinaan

Rekomendasyon

NILALAMAN

(content)

PAMAMARAAN

(method)

PAGPAPADALOY

PAKIKITUNGO SA

MGA KALAHOK (rapport with the

trainees)

Iba pang komentaryo / mungkahi: Nagbigay ng Puna: _______________________________


Citizen Voter Education

Ang pagtatasang ito ay inihanda upang malaman namin ang mga kalakasan at mga kahinaan ng mga naging tagapagsalita at ng mga tinalakay na paksa. Sa pamamagitan ng pagtatasang ito mas mapapagbuti pa ang mga susunod na pagsasanay na ilulunsad.

Mga Tanong Para sa Pagtatasa

Hindi Bahagya Oo 1. Naabot ba ang inaasahan mo sa Kurso? 1 2 3 4 5 2. Anu-ano ang mga natutuhan sa kurso? 3. Ang mga gawain/ paksang pinakagusto ko ay: 4. Ang mga gawain/ paksang hindi ko nagustuhan ay: 5. Lagyan ng marka ang mga sumusunod batay sa ganitong rating scale: 1 - Hindi maganda 2 - Medyo maganda 3 - Maganda 4 - Magandang-maganda


MARKA KOMENTARYO a. Mga paksa/ nilalaman ______ _____________________ b. Mga pamamaraan ______ _____________________ c. Partisipasyon ng mga kalahok ______ _____________________ d. Oras at haba ng pagsasanay ______ _____________________ e. Lugar/ pagkain ______ _____________________ f. Mga babasahin (handouts) at iba pang gamit ______ _____________________ 6. Sa pangkalahatan, ang ibibigay kong marka sa pagsasanay ay: ____________ (gamitin ang rating sa itaas) Dahilan: 7. Mga rekomendasyon/ mungkahi sa pagpapaunlad at pagpapatakbo ng kurso: 8. Saan mo magagamit/ balak gamitin ang kursong ito? 9. Mga minumungkahing follow-up activities/ pagsasanay: Pangalan: _______________________________________ Petsa: _____________________

IPER Citizen-Voter Education Module-Building Project

Pool of Experts

Elson D. Azores – KAMMPIL Ramon C. Casiple – IPER

Ceres P. Doyo – Media/PDI Jose Luis Martin C. Gascon. Esq.- NIPS

Jocel Gonzales – AKBAYAN! Luie Tito F. Guia – Kumare-Kumpare

Edilberto Guyano- NASSA Marie V. Labajo – AKBAYAN!

Erwin Vicman R. Lara – House of Representatives Andie C. Lasala – Konsensiyang Pilipino

Arturo Guerrero T. Liñan – House of Representatives Jo-Ann Q. Maglipon – Media

Malou Mangahas – Media/PCIJ Noel M. Medina – IPER

Andres “Tatang” Mendoza – PPCRV-Archdiocese of Manila Jeremy T. Nishimori – ECPG

Ana Elzy Ofreneo – CHR Rudy G. Santos – NIPS

Jorge V. Tigno – UP CIDS/Political Science Department Antonio R. Villasor – ACFOD

Documentation Team

Marjorie F. Acal Rosa Blanca R. Enrique

Sheila Marie Anne R. Jambalos Alfonso Bonifacio T. Liñan Cheryll Myra C. Mercado

Paolo C. Santiago

Pool of Facilitators

Maria Sonia B. Atienza-Liñan Arturo Guerrero T. Liñan

Jeremy Nishimori Antonio R. Villasor

Production Team

Edsil V. Bacalso Benjamin Jose T. Liñan

Michelle D. Avelino

Project Team

Rosa Bella M. Quindoza – Project Coordinator Jazz Pauline M. Blanco – Research Assistant Armando A. Avelino – Technical Assistant Paolo C. Santiago – Research Assistant

WORKSHOP PARTICIPANTS FOR SECTORAL MODULES

ELDERLY Myrna Cabamalas

FISHERFOLK

Rodolfo Tigas, Jr.

INDIGENOUS PEOPLE Basilio Bati-el

Diahalo D. Duldula Datu Angelito Omos

Langley Segundo

LABOR Christine Comia

Jennie Tess Madayag

MORO PEOPLE Noverto Barretto Reina Hataman

Macrina A. Morados Sonny Plariza

PEASANTS Elson Azroes

Enrico Cabanit Evangeline Mendoza

Florencio Satorre

PERSONS WITH DISABILITY Edwin Alquillera Renato B. Cada

Ricardo Calapatia

URBAN POOR Gloria M. Villena

WOMEN

Tita M. Castro Elma Encio

Margie Lacanilao Jovita Q. Magyaya

Elizabeth L. Menzana-Diaz Ma. Flora B. Umali

YOUTH

Mark M. Cajara Rannie M. Dico Jomar Modesto

Notes

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

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