Details
For this Manila Calling, the discussion centers on voting behavior in the Philippines, particularly the dominance of personality-based politics over ideology- and platform-driven democratic competition. With the 2026 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) this November and the 2028 national elections drawing closer, many aspiring candidates are already positioning themselves for both local and national contests. Such instances of early political maneuvering highlight how personality-driven politics continue to characterize electoral outcomes in the Philippines. Rather than ideological frameworks and track records, campaigns are defined more by personalities, visibility, and name recall. As a result, political choice is often framed around charisma, relatability, and brand identity rather than coherent policy agendas. This dynamic raises critical questions about the quality of democratic participation in the country, given that our democratic elections are defined by majority rule. If electoral success hinges more on personal appeal than substantive debate, what does this mean for accountability, policymaking, and long-term democratic consolidation? This discussion, therefore, seeks to understand the role of personality in shaping Philippine politics, particularly in the context of contemporary media, and what this means for Philippine elections and democracy.
This event is open to all.
DATE: Thursday, April 16, 2026
TIME: 5 PM - 7 PM
VENUE: Crisostomo, One Ayala, Makati City
To register, visit: https://forms.office.com/e/TgL81rtU73.