MANILA, Philippines – As the 2025 Philippine elections approach, communities are speaking out on issues that matter most to them — and student journalists are amplifying these voices to make sure they are heard. 

With support from Rappler and #FactsFirstPH coalition, campus publications aim to be at the forefront of voter empowerment, raising awareness on key concerns of young Filipinos that will shape the elections.

Through stories and community-driven campaigns, these student-run publications are shining a light on what residents want from their candidates, from climate justice to better disaster preparedness, and responsive leadership. 

Take a look at the campaigns from some of these student publications.

College Editors Guild of the Philippines-Bicol

The Bicol Region, which had been battered by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine and Super Typhoon Pepito, faces not only the devastation of nature but the crippling effects of corruption that worsen disaster impacts.

In response, the College Editors Guild of the Philippines-Bicol launched a #AmbagNatin climate talks campaign to amplify calls for climate justice and hold candidates accountable in the upcoming 2025 elections.

iWrite – Miagao, Iloilo

The student publication of the University of the Philippines Visayas in Miagao, iWrite, asked young voters in Miagao, Iloilo, what they know about their town’s mayoral candidates. 

As disinformation and misinformation about local politicians persist in their area, iWrite aimed to raise awareness on who is running for mayor and getting initial sentiments from students about the candidates.

ExplainedPH-Manila

Young community journalists from youth-led organization ExplainedPH took a closer look at how students and workers from the informal sector see the upcoming elections and their hopes for the leaders who will soon be elected.

They zoomed in on young voters in Manila, many of whom are college and senior high school students, and what they seek in candidates. 

Meanwhile, informal workers, who contribute significantly to daily life despite lacking job security, also shared their perspectives on the election, questioning whether they can trust politicians to address their needs.

By giving specific sectors a platform to share their views, these young journos aim to help voters make informed decisions at the polls and understand how Filipinos from all walks of life will be affected by their vote. – Rappler.com