MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. called on Filipinos to exercise their right to vote with responsibility and integrity, underscoring the vital role of every citizen in protecting the country’s democratic process.

In a one-minute video message released Sunday on his official social media accounts, Marcos described the upcoming polls as a time for the public to express their hopes and dreams for a better nation.

“Mga kababayan, ngayong halalan, gamitin natin ang ating karapatan at gampanan ang ating pananagutan bilang mamamayang Pilipino,” he said.

“Isang pagkakataon ito para marinig ang boses ng bawat isa at maipahayag ang mga pangarap na mahalaga sa inyo at sa bayan,” he said. 

Recognizing the diversity of views among the electorate, Marcos stressed that democracy thrives on differences in opinion—but he cautioned that these differences should not lead to conflict or fear.

“Iba’t iba man ang ating paniniwala, ‘yan ang diwa ng demokrasya. Pero ang pagkakaiba ng opinyon ay hindi dapat mauwi sa gulo o pananakot. Ipinaglalaban natin ang kinabukasan sa balota. Hindi sa lansangan. Hindi sa karahasan,” he said. 

With nearly 70 million registered voters expected to head to polling precincts on Sunday, the President urged Filipinos to choose leaders with honesty, compassion, and the capacity to serve. He also reminded candidates to respect the electoral process and end their campaigns with dignity.

“Kaya bumoto po tayo. Piliin ang tapat, may malasakit, at may kakayahang magsilbi. At sa mga kandidato, igalang natin ang proseso. Tapusin natin ang halalan ng may dangal at katahimikan,” he said. 

The President’s message comes as the Commission on Elections (Comelec) finalizes preparations for the nationwide vote, where 18,280 seats across 14 elective positions—from senators to municipal councilors—are up for grabs.

In his closing remarks, Marcos appealed for unity in ensuring peaceful and fair elections.

“Magtulungan po tayo upang mapanatili ang isang maayos, mapayapa, at makatarungang halalan. Maraming salamat. Mabuhay ang sambayanang Pilipino. Mabuhay ang ating demokrasya.”