With the midterm elections just weeks away, many Filipino voters, especially from the youth sector, are expressing hopes for a more informed and respectful political dialogue in the country, one that encourages smarter, values-driven voting.

According to data from the Commission on Elections (Comelec), around 56 percent of registered voters for the upcoming polls — roughly 47.8 million Filipinos — come from the Gen Z and Millennial generations.

Migi, a 23-year-old nurse, said improving the country’s political discourse won’t happen overnight, especially with the continued trend of voters choosing candidates based on popularity rather than qualifications.

“It’s a long road, especially with so many close-minded voters who only vote for celebrities or familiar names,” Migi said. He also called on the Comelec to raise the bar for those aspiring to enter public service.

“I hope Comelec enforces stricter candidate requirements. At the very least, candidates should be college graduates, have no criminal record, no history of corruption, and must show transparency. Just being able to read and write shouldn’t be the only qualification.”

Cassie, 24, said schools and social media should play a bigger role in educating voters.

“People need to do their research — look into candidates’ track records, values, and platforms. And there should be accountability. Bad behavior by politicians shouldn’t be shrugged off or turned into a joke,” she said.

These comments come in light of Comelec’s recent issuance of show-cause orders against several local candidates over the use of sexually suggestive and discriminatory campaign materials.

Among those flagged were Pasig congressional candidate Christian Sia, who joked about sleeping with single mothers “at least once a year,” and Pasay mayoral candidate Editha Manguerra, who made discriminatory remarks about Indian nationals.

Len, a senior accountant, said that aside from examining a candidate’s track record, she also watches out for signs of “trapo” or traditional politics.

“I don’t just want someone with a clean record — I want someone who isn’t just recycling the same old tactics and empty promises,” she shared.

Dominique, a first-time voter, said she’s looking for candidates who demonstrate genuine selflessness, hinting that her ideal leader would also oppose policies like divorce, which she believes undermines healthy marriages.