A Sick Society: Issues Facing the Youth Electorate During the COVID-19

Pandemic and Their Outlook Towards the 2022 National Elections

Quezon National High School

Senior High School

Qualitative Research Paper

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Subject Practical Research I

Under the Academic Track: Science, Technology, Engineering,
and Mathematics Strand

by:

Vinzen Josh L. Borja

Aleck Xandra Mae T. Abregunda

Janna Hershies B. Auditor

February 2021
i
 Republic of the Philippines
Department of Education
Division of Quezon
Quezon National High School
Brgy. Ibabang Iyam, Lucena City

Approval Sheet

In partial fulfilment for the subject Practical Research 1 under the

Academic Track: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics strand,
this Qualitative Research Paper entitled, ―A Sick Society: Issues Facing the
Youth Electorate During the COVID-19 Pandemic and Their Outlook
Towards the 2022 National Elections” has been prepared and submitted by
Vinzen Josh L. Borja, Aleck Xandra Mae T. Abregunda, and Janna Hershies
B. Auditor who are hereby recommended for approval and acceptance.

MR. JERIC M. ILAO

Research Adviser

Approved by the Committee on Oral Examination in Qualitative Category

____________________ ____________________

Member Member

Accepted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the subject Practical

Research 1 under the Science Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics
(STEM) Strand.

____________________
MR. ARIEL R. VIÑAS
SSHT-VI, QNHS Science Department

ii
 DEDICATION

We dedicate this research to our fellow students, peers, and to all that

consists of the youth for their unwavering search for hope, their insurmountable

struggle for new solutions, and their journey towards new frontiers as the next

generation‘s researchers.

We also dedicate this research to our alma-mater, Quezon National High

School, in hopes of bringing glory to its name through advancing the fields of

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) and for serving its

objectives as an outstanding center of excellence for Research and Development

in the region.

iii
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

We the researchers of the study entitled, ―A Sick Society: Issues Facing

the Youth Electorate During the COVID-19 Pandemic and Their Outlook

Towards the 2022 National Elections‖ would like to express our sincerest

gratitude to everyone who has lent the time, effort, and resources necessary to

make this research endeavor possible.

To Mr. Jeric M. Ilao, whose efforts have inspired us all to become great

students and for honing us into the outstanding researchers we are today, we thank

you for your genuine guidance and appreciation towards our work. Thank you for

being our teacher, our mentor, and father figure at Practical Research I.

To the Respondents of the study who heeded our calls and willingly

allotted time and effort to complete our interviews with them, thank you for

dedication and priceless contributions to our study.

To our friends and family members who gave us their unrelenting

support, love and motivation every step of the way, thank you for helping us build

the emotional fortitude we need to undertake this research especially during these

trying times.

Lastly and most importantly, to the Almighty God from which all

knowledge from this study emanates. We the researchers are thankful to Thee for

giving us guidance as well as the gift of talent and faith to successfully

accomplish this research study.

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Preliminaries

Title Page...................................................................................................i

Approval Sheet...........................................................................................ii

Acknowledgements....................................................................................iv

Table of Contents.......................................................................................v

List of Figures............................................................................................vii

Abstract.....................................................................................................viii

Chapter I – Introduction

Background of the Study...........................................................................01

Statement of the Problem...........................................................................05

Significance of the Study...........................................................................06

Scope and Delimitations............................................................................07

Definition of Terms....................................................................................10

Chapter II – Review of Related Literature

Related Literature.......................................................................................14

Conceptual Framework..............................................................................36

Chapter III – Methodology

Research Design.........................................................................................38

Research Locale.........................................................................................39

Population and Sampling...........................................................................39

Research Instrument...................................................................................40

Data Gathering Procedure..........................................................................42

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 Research Ethics..........................................................................................44

Data Analysis.............................................................................................45

Chapter IV – Results and Discussions

Theme 1: How Gen-Z Voters Perceive the Issues During the Covid-19

Pandemic................................................................................................................49

Theme 2: How The Pandemic and Pandemic-Related Issues Shaped the

Perspectives of Gen-Z Voters Toward the 2022 National Elections.....................62

Theme 3: Characterization of the Current Outlook of Gen-Z Voters

Towards the 2022 National Elections....................................................................73

Grounded Theory: Modified Theory of Planned Behavior on The Electoral

Participation of Younger Generation-Z Voters......................................................83

Chapter V – Summary, Conclusions, and Recommendations

Summary....................................................................................................87

Findings.....................................................................................................88

Conclusions................................................................................................91

Recommendations.....................................................................................92

Bibliography.........................................................................................................94

Appendices

A. Cover Letter........................................................................................117

B. Parental or Guardian Consent Form (Page 1 of 2)..............................118

C. Parental or Guardian Consent Form (Page 2 of 2)..............................119

D. Questionnaire (Page 1 of 3)................................................................120

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 E. Questionnaire (Page 2 of 3).................................................................121

F. Questionnaire (Page 3 of 3).................................................................122

G. Coding.................................................................................................123

Curriculum Vitae...............................................................................................227

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 2.1. Reverse tree diagram illustrating the conceptual framework of this

research study.........................................................................................................36

Figure 3.1. Flowchart showing the process of data analysis as conducted by the

researchers; based on ―Grounded theory research: A design framework for novice

researchers‖ (Chun-Tie et al.,2019).......................................................................45

Figure 4.1. How Gen-Z Voters Perceive the Issues during the COVID-19

Pandemic................................................................................................................61

Figure 4.2. How the Pandemic and Pandemic-Related Issues Shaped the

Perspectives of Gen-Z Voters Toward the 2022 National Elections.....................72

Figure 4.3. Characterization of the Current Outlook of Gen-Z Voters Towards the

2022 National Elections.........................................................................................81

Figure 4.4. Reverse tree diagram illustrating the theory of reasoned action or

planned behavior (Lumen Candela, n.d.)...............................................................83

Figure 4.5. Reverse tree diagram illustrating the grounded theory of this research

paper namely the Modified Theory of Planned Behavior on The Electoral

Participation of Younger Generation-Z Voters......................................................86

vii
Title : A Sick Society: Issues Facing the
Youth Electorate During the
COVID-19 Pandemic and Their
Outlook Towards the 2022 National
Elections

Researchers : Vinzen Josh L. Borja

Aleck Xandra Mae T. Abregunda
Janna Hershies B. Auditor

Name of Institution : Quezon National High School

Ibabang Iyam, Lucena City, Quezon

Research Adviser : Jeric M. Ilao

Year Written : 2020 - 2021

ABSTRACT
The entry of Generation Z voters into our elections is still relatively new
in the political setting. As such, the consequences all these may have on the
elections are not yet fully understood. For this reason, the researchers have
conducted a study on the perspectives of younger Gen-Z voters on the elections.
The study generally aims to uncover the multifaceted perspectives of eligible
Gen-Z voters on the 2022 Philippine National Elections within the context of
issues arising during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study was conducted with 13
elligible youth voters aged 16 to 21 from Lucena City, Quezon Province and used
the Contstructivist Grounded Theory (CGT) method. The researchers used
theoretical and purposive sampling carried out across four cycles in selecting the
respondents of the study. The researchers used interview questionnaires in order
to gather data from the respondents and resolve the research problems. The
researchers were able to extract three themes and one grounded theory: Theme 1:
How Gen-Z Voters Perceive The Issues During The Covid-19 Pandemic; Theme
2: How The Pandemic And Pandemic-Related Issues Shaped The Perspectives Of
Gen-Z Voters Toward The 2022 National Elections; Theme 3: Characterization
Of The Current Outlook Of Gen-Z Voters Towards The 2022 National Elections;
and the grounded theory of this research paper: Modified Theory Of Planned
Behavior On The Electoral Participation Of Younger Generation-Z Voters.

Keywords: Elections, Generation Z, grounded theory, perspectives, pandemic

viii
 CHAPTER I

Background of the Study

No nation in Asia has more experience than the Philippines with

democratic systems (Hutchcroft, 2008 as cited in Regilme, 2016). As such,

elections here have always been unbroken traditions ever since the country‘s

independence, with only a few notable exceptions during the Martial Law period.

These elections, despite being held only once every three years, can have

consequential impacts that far outlive the term limits of the elected. A good

example of this is the most recent General Elections in 2016 which saw the

landslide victory of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte. Since he took office, his

controversial policies and harsh rhetoric have drastically changed the political

landscape here in the Philippines (Timberman, 2019). For instance, a report

published by The Economist Intelligence Unit (2019) found that democracy in the

country has waned during his presidency—from ranking 50th in the world in 2016,

down four places to 54th in 2019. For better or for worse, the Duterte

administration will certainly leave a mark in Philippine politics and history.

This legacy is not his alone. In 2016, Duterte was elected with more than

16.6 million votes, garnering almost twice as many than his nearest opponent

(COMELEC, 2016 as cited in CNN Philippines, 2016). However, while Duterte

received popular support from nearly all demographics, post-election exit-polls

showed that it was actually the millennial vote that proved decisive and thrusted

1
Duterte to the finish line (Social Weather System [SWS], 2016 as cited in

Mangahas, 2016).

Soon it was found that the younger the voters, the more the appeal of

Duterte. His whopping 33-point lead over Mar Roxas in the polls for voters aged

18-24 was the largest among any demographic, (SWS as cited in Mangahas,

2016). Moreover, a separate article has even found that it was, in fact, young

millenials who comprised the largest chunk of Duterte‘s political base

(Büchenbacher, 2019). Looking back, it is safe to say that without the support

and votes of the youth sector, Duterte may not have won with the same landslide

margin—let alone the presidency—at all.

The role of the youth has always been important in any election, and their

participation in 2016 has been pivotal to Duterte‘s success. However, in 2022, this

role will become more crucial and more game-changing than ever. By law, only

citizens who are 18 years old and above are qualified to participate in the electoral

process and only those who register will actually get to vote (The Voter‘s

Registration Act, 1996). This means that in the last 2016 elections, the youngest

eligible voters were only from the late 1990s; making 2022 the first time anyone

born in the 21st century will head to the presidential polls. The expected influx of

younger Generation Z voters in the 2022 elections will only add to the already

growing number of older Gen-Z youth who, according to the Commission on

Elections (2019), now comprise a sizeable plurality of 31% among registered

voters, second only to Generation X.

2
 Given this data, it has become increasingly possible that the young

generation will soon overtake their parents as the majority of voters in 2022. This

changing demographic make-up of our electorate, in addition to the pandemic and

other major events, will introduce with it new challenges to our political system

and many other aspects never before seen in the country‘s electoral history.

Chiefly of all these issues is the 2020 COVID-19 Pandemic. The

coronavirus pandemic has resulted in a dramatic worldwide loss of human life and

posed unprecedented threats to the very fabric of our society. The many economic

and socio-political issues that came along with it have only underscored the

importance of research in pandemic times. More importantly, the severity of these

issues can no longer be ignored in the lead up to the next national elections and

thus warrants further study and research on their possible implications particularly

on the youth and first-time voters.

Some of the most relevant pandemic-related issues faced by youth today

include those concerning the Philippine justice system (Madaranga, 2020;

Malasig, 2020); political and press freedoms (Gutierrez, 2020; Gutierrez &

Stevenson, 2020; SWS, 2020c, 2020d); corruption and government expenditure

(Gozum 2020; Ramos, 2020; Ravelo, 2020); pandemic and disaster response

(Tarinay, 2020); online classes (Baticulon et al., 2020); LGBTQIA+ Rights

(Cabato, 2020); foreign affairs and other domestic issues (Locsin, 2020;

Madarang, 2020b; Bajo, 2020; Callar, 2020); social issues such as

misinformation, mental health illness, and domestic violence (Karpman et al.,

2020; Byrsztyn et al., 2020; Department of Health [DOH], 2020 as cited by

3
Xinhua, 2020); as well as global issues such as the Great Lockdown, economic

recessions, the #BlackLivesMatter movement, 2020 U.S. Elections, and Climate

Change (The New York Times, 2020; Geospatial World, 2020; Lo, 2020).

On top of these pandemic-related issues are the many pre-existing issues

facing Gen-Zers long before the COVID-19 pandemic even started. Case in point:

a recent survey conducted by the Far Eastern University‘s Public Policy Center,

as cited by Malasig (2019), found that only 8% of Generation Zers critically

evaluate the information they find, while only 12% ask questions or clarifications

when presented with information. Moreover, according to the same survey,

almost one-fourth of Gen-Zers said they never publicly communicated their

opinions about any cause. The findings indicated that the young generation is

largely uncritical and politically apathetic despite the easy accessibility of

information.

The current political environment and policies in place may have played a

significant role in this rise of political apathy among the youth (Velasco, n.d.). For

instance, voter registration in the country is still a lengthy and tiresome process,

with long lines and waiting times ranging from 45 minutes up to several hours.

Voting is also not required by law unlike in other democratic countries. In

addition to all this, political hostilities, unrest, and violence still plague Philippine

elections on a regular basis, with more than 701 areas declared hotspots just in the

most recent 2019 elections (Büchenbacher, 2019). Unless resolved, all these

issues and factors may continue to disenfranchise our emerging Gen-Z electorate

and can have grave repercussions on our nation‘s future.

4
 Other more minor but still significant problems and issues gathered from

various related literature include the lack of voter education that leads to

uninformed citizenry (Defensor-Santiago, 2012), prevalence of political dynasties

and lack of substantial information on their roots and causes (Mendoza &

Navarro, 2013), the threats of political memes (Garcia, Luces & Engay, 2019),

and the discrepancies on political engagement between young voters from

different income classes (Salvador et al., 2017).

The entry of Generation Z voters into our elections is still relatively new

in the political setting. As such, the consequences all these may have on the

elections are not yet fully understood. This research will aim to solve that lack of

understanding by finally shining light on the issues facing Generation Z voters

and the real implications they may have on the future of our country. It is

important as well that this research be able to address these problems in order to

provide some sort of scientific foundation for future solutions that will help instill

the skills the youth needs in order to vote wisely. For all these reasons, the

researchers have conducted the study entitled ―A Sick Society: Issues Facing the

Youth Electorate During the COVID-19 Pandemic and Their Outlook Towards

the 2022 National Elections.‖

Statement of the Problem

The study generally aims to uncover the multifaceted perspectives of

eligible Gen-Z voters on the 2022 Philippine National Elections within the

context of issues arising during the COVID-19 pandemic.

5
 Specifically, the study sought to answer the following questions:

1. What are the issues that matter most to eligible Gen-Z voters during the course

of COVID-19 pandemic?

2. What are the impacts of those issues that eligible Gen-Z voters encounter on

their perspectives toward the 2022 national elections?

3. What is the outlook of the respondents on the 2022 National Elections in

general, and in terms of their preferred characteristic traits a leader, and on the

platforms/initiatives these candidates are willing to support?

Significance of the Study

The researchers trust that the outcome of this study will have several

gains:

It will provide the government comprehensive and much-needed

information on the current situation of our electorate particularly our youth sector.

It will provide scientific basis for much-needed government policies, electoral

reforms, and other legislative action that will finally empower more youth to

participate in our democracy.

It will generate awareness on the side of incumbent politicians and

political hopefuls, and in return push them to acknowledge more the role of the

youth in their campaigns and bring light to previously overlooked issues. This can

have game-changing impacts on our elections as politicians and their campaigns

6
will begin to strategize more effectively while at the same time elevating the

youth sector and their issues into the national spotlight.

It will serve to provide clarity for the youth of the next generation in

understanding the importance of political participation and their power in the next

elections. Moreover, the results of this research could also be used as a stimulus in

waking up our society, especially the Generation-Z, on the many electoral and

pandemic issues we face today and encourage them to resolve these issues such as

misinformation on a personal-level.

Lastly, while the span of this research is fairly extensive, different aspects

not covered in this study still exist and can be executed in future researches, thus

benefiting the scientific community by giving them a reliable historical reference.

Scope and Delimitations

Due to the unprecedented nature of the COVID-19 Pandemic, research

surrounding its political impacts, especially on the Youth, is highly limited. This

study aims to fill that gap by exploring how members of Generation Z view some

of the key pandemic-related, as well as social and political issues facing the nation

today and how their views have changed as national and global events intervene.

This study also intends to be foundational by arriving at a theory that may provide

some compelling clues about how Gen Z will help shape the future political

landscape, especially the one in the upcoming 2022 National Elections.

For that purpose, the researchers have chosen 13 respondents to undergo

the data gathering procedure. All twelve respondents are Filipino citizens,

7
specifically younger Gen-Z youth born from 2000 to 2004 based on the

definitions set by Pew Research Center (2019) as cited by Strauss and Howe

(n.d.). All respondents were also required to be eligible or registered to vote,

which means that they should be at least 18 years old on Election Day, a resident

of the Philippines for at least a year, and not otherwise disqualified by law or

criminal conviction to vote (The Voter‘s Registration Act, 1996).

The researchers conducted four cycles of homogenous sampling—the first

was through purposive quota sampling; and the second, third and fourth were

through theoretical quota sampling. Each of the four cycles sampled respondents

from the same age range of 16, 17, 18-19 and 20-21 years old respectively. All in

all, there were a total of 13 respondents from 4 different age brackets, spread out

through 13 interviews in 4 cycles. Each interview is compared and contrasted

with the subsequent interview and/or the previous interviews if any.

A set of base questions is prepared by the researchers, covering various

topics and issues related to the research questions. Afterwards, consecutive semi

structured interviews were held until theoretical data saturation was reached.

This study is strictly qualitative. All the data gathered in this study were

co-constructed by the researchers and the respondents through Constructivist

Grounded Theory method (CGT). In this approach, the researchers employed

constant comparison between data-gathering interviews to be able to derive or

identify a theory through analysis.

8
 This research endeavor only aims to study and attempt to analyze the

impacts of pandemic-era issues on the political perspectives and outlook of Gen-Z

youth. It did not intend to gather further information on the respondents that are

not connected to any of the research questions or variables.

The study was purposely delimited to synchronous and epistolary

interviews since both methods were feasible in an online setting. No physical

interactions are necessary to answer the questions of this research paper as all

related activities can be done virtually. This is in light of pandemic restrictions

and minimum health protocols observed during the time of this research making.

Overall, this research is delimited as well by the researcher/s‘ financial,

physical, and mental-emotional limitations in addition to time constraints. The

researcher/s conducted all necessary data-gathering and analysis before May 09,

2022 which, at time of writing, is the official date of the 2022 National Elections.

Lastly, it is worth noting that the issues included in this study are analyzed and

presented as they were at the time of writing this paper. Moreover, this study will

not include pandemic-era issues that emerge beyond December, 2020 for the

purpose of accuracy and expediency on the side of the researchers. There is also

the possibility that many extraneous variables such as disaster, terrorism,

economic crises, and other events will emerge during the time of research-making

and severely undermine the validity of the researcher/s‘ findings.

9
Definition of Terms

For the purpose of clarification, the important terms in this study have been

defined.

The following terms are:

Coronavirus Disease 2019 is the official designation of the infectious disease

caused by the SARS-COV 2 virus (WHO, 2020). In this research, it is

simply denoted as ―COVID-19‖,‖Coronavirus‖, or ―the pandemic.‖

Disenfranchise is defined as to take away someone's right to vote or to deprive

someone of power, rights and privileges (Your Dictionary, n.d). In this

study it is more closely defined as the deliberate discouragement of voters

from voting.

Distance learning refers to an education system where learners and teachers are

separated by geographical and/or temporal distance, usually with the help

of technology (Wheeler, 2012). It is used in this study to refer to the

prevalent system of instruction during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Electorate is the body of people allowed to vote in an election (Vocabulary, n.d.

a). The researchers used this term to refer to the general population being

studied in this research.

Extrajudicial killings are defined as ―killings by government officials without

due process of law. They include murders by private groups if instigated by

10
 the government (Udi Sommer, 2019). In this study, it refers to the cases of

alleged summary executions during the Philippine War on Drugs.

Generation Z (aka Gen Z, iGen, or centennials) refers to the generation that was

born between 1996-2010, following Millennials (Business Insiders, 2020).

In this study, the term Gen-Z most often refers to the older bracket of

Generation Z which are those born from 1997-2004.

Gen-Zers refers to the first consumers to have grown up wholly in the digital era.

They're tech-savvy and mobile-first — and they have high standards for

how they spend their time online (Business Insiders, 2020). In this study,

the term Gen Zers refers to the collective population from which the

respondents were taken.

Mass testing means asking everyone to be tested, whether or not they have

symptoms (Ian Westbrook,2020). It is used in this study to refer to the

general policy of COVID-19 testing.

Millenial is the demographic cohort following Generation X and preceding

Generation Z. Anyone born between 1981 and 1996 is considered

Millennial (Elise LaPointe, n.d). This term is mentioned in this study to

refer to the generation of people who were primarily considered as the

―youth‖ during past elections.

Misinformation is wrong information which is given to someone, often in a

deliberate attempt to make them believe something which is not true

11
 (Collins, n.d). As used in this study, the word refers to the general

phenomena of spreading false information, especially online.

New Normal is a current situation, social custom, etc., that is different from what

has been experienced or done before but is expected to become usual or

typical (Dictionary, n.d). In this research, the ―new normal‖ refers to the

status quo that is currently prevalent worldwide during the COVID-19

pandemic.

Polarization refers to how people think, especially when two views emerge that

drive people apart (Vocabulary, n.d. b). In this study it refers to the

broadening gap and extremism between opposing views.

Political Apathy is the state of indifference in citizens‘ attitude towards political

activities, such as electing politicians, having opinions, and their civic

responsibilities. A more simplified term for political apathy would be that

someone ‗cannot be bothered‘ to participate in their country‘s political

system (Tutor2U, n.d).

Quarantine is a period of isolation decreed to control the spread of infectious

disease (Willian C. Shiel, n.d ). In this study, it refers to the community

status quo faced by the youth during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Recession is a macroeconomic term that refers to a significant decline in general

economic activity in a designated region (Brian Barnier, 2020). In this

study, the term is primarily associated with only the current global

recession due to the COVID-19 Pandemic.

12
Red-tagging, as defined by the Supreme Court, refers to ―the act of labeling,

branding, naming and accusing individuals and/or organizations of being

left-leaning, subversives, communists or terrorists (used as) a strategy by

State agents, particularly law enforcement agencies and the military,

against those perceived to be ‗threats‘ or ‗enemies of the State.‘‖ (Jodesz

Gavilan, 2020).

SOGIE stands for Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expression. It is a

reference term used to describe a person‘s sexuality especially in legal

doctrines (Si Min Chong, 2016).

Suffrage is derives from the Latin word ―suffragium,‖ meaning the right or

privilege to vote (Jessiekratz, 2019)

Youth electorate is an electoral demographic that comprises eligible voters

falling under the age range from 18 to 21 (Leong, 2019) on Election Day.

In this research, it is to be understood as a collective term for young people

in the context of their role in the elections.

13
 CHAPTER II

Review of Related Literature

COVID-19 Pandemic

In December 2019, an outbreak of an unexplained viral pneumonia-like

disease was discovered in the Chinese city of Wuhan. This new disease (later

named COVID-19) is thought to have originated from a zoonotic virus at a 'wet

market' in the city where various animals both live and dead were sold. Since

then, the Coronavirus Disease 2019 had quickly spread around the world and led

to severe global economic disruption. On March 11, 2020, the World Health

Organization officially declared the COVID-19 outbreak a global pandemic

(Holshue et al., 2020; World Health Organization [WHO], 2020).

The aftermath of the COVID-19 Pandemic has resulted in a dramatic

worldwide loss of human life and presents unprecedented threats to the very

fabric of our society. The social, physical, and emotional toll this health crisis has

inflicted upon the lives of many people, especially the youth, have only

underscored the importance of research in pandemic times.

COVID-19 Pandemic in the Philippines

On January 20, 2020, the Philippines recorded its first coronavirus case

from a 38-year-old, female Chinese national who came to the country from

Wuhan. Not long after, the Philippines also recorded the first confirmed death

from COVID-19 outside of China. Cases quickly emerged from various parts of

14
the country and by as early as August 06, the country already had the highest

number of confirmed coronavirus cases in all of Southeast Asia (Duddu, 2020;

Esguerra, 2020)

In response, the Philippine Government imposed a total lockdown in the

island of Luzon, referred to as the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ), as

the primary preventive measure against the spike in infection cases. This

lockdown policy continued for several months and was highly regarded as the

longest and strictest national lockdown in the world (Olanday & Rigby, 2020).

Since then, the impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic has been felt across all

sectors of Philippine society. The onset of strict lockdowns, the ensuing economic

recession, and many other socio-political developments have given the rise to

many pandemic-related issues that can no longer be ignored in the lead up to the

next national elections. This undeniability thus warrants further study and

research on the possible implications of these issues particularly on the youth and

first-time voters.

Pandemic-Related Issues facing the Youth

In the short amount of time that has passed since the first days of this

pandemic up to the writing of this paper, the Philippines is certainly no longer the

country it once was just a year ago. Pandemic-related issues left and right have

marred the social and political discourse in our country—greatly affecting public

opinion for the foreseeable future. In fact, according to a September 2020 study

by the Social Weather System (SWS, 2020a), fifty-seven percent of Filipinos still

15
believe that the worst-case scenario of the COVID-19 pandemic is yet to come.

Another study by the same organization (2020b) also found that nearly 9 out of 10

Filipinos are, at the time of the survey, currently stressed over the health crisis.

These are all alarming numbers from a political standpoint as it just goes to show

how pandemic-related issues could still remain relevant as we enter the election

season.

As of the writing of this research paper, there have already been many

issues since March 11th, 2020 (official start of the COVID-19 Pandemic) that are

worth noting for their profound impacts on public discourse.

Issues on the Justice System

On the police murder of Winston Ragos, former Philippine Army corporal,

back in April 2020, reports found that Filipinos became greatly divided on the

issue of police brutality as the shooting sparked a national reckoning on the

heavily militarized implementation of Community Quarantine (Madaranga,

2020).

High profile quarantine violations by prominent political personalities

such as Senator ―Koko‖ Pimentel, Mocha Uson, and then-NCRPO Chief Debold

Sinas also ignited debate on the issue of impunity and the legal concept of dura

lex sed lex (Malasig, 2020).

These alleged cases of unequal treatment from law enforcement during the

pandemic have impacted people, especially the youth‘s, perceptions of the justice

system in the country, on top of existing issues such as the Philippine War on

16
Drugs. A study conducted by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA,

2020) even showed that killings during the COVID-19 pandemic increased by

more than 50% in a span of just four months.

Issues on Political Freedoms

The pandemic also saw the government shutdown of Philippine media

giant, ABS-CBN, after its franchise was denied by Congress in early July. Despite

more than 75% of Filipinos in favor of the franchise renewal, Congress has

blocked all efforts to restore the said network—causing both domestic and

international condemnation from press freedom advocates. This issue along with

the recent conviction of Rappler CEO Maria Ressa has only amplified the public‘s

fear of criticizing the government, with a 51% majority of Filipinos believing that

it is now dangerous to print or broadcast anything critical of the Duterte

administration (Gutierrez, 2020; Gutierrez & Stevenson, 2020; SWS, 2020c,

2020d).

This deteriorating public opinion on the importance of press freedom can

have long-term impacts on the health of our democracy. However, the ABSCBN

shutdown and Maria Ressa‘s long ordeal with the government weren‘t the only

challenges to free speech that this country faced during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

On the 3rd of July, 2020, President Rodrigo Duterte signed his

administration‘s controversial Anti-Terrorism Act into law. According to

Amnesty International (2020), the law contains too-vague definitions on what

counts as terrorism and may be used to undermine human rights and freedoms in

17
the country. A study by Oxford Analytica (2020) also echoed Amnesty

International‘s findings and found that the anti-terrorism law will only sow

discord in the Filipino public. These issues concerning the said law have sparked

many youth-led protests across the country, putting the government at odds with

an increasingly wary young generation. As of writing, the law's constitutionality

is still being challenged in the Supreme Court by multiple groups (Buan, 2020).

On top of all these issues is the controversy surrounding the ―red-tagging‖

rhetoric of some government officials. For instance, in October 2020, Lt. Gen.

Antonio Parlade came under heavy fire after issuing ―red-tagging‖ statements

against various personalities. His aggressive stance towards advocates has since

caused public outcry and has spurred fears that anyone may now be easily

branded as communists or terrorists if they go against the government (Jha, 2020;

Talabong, 2020).

Issues on Corruption and Government Expenditure

Aside from issues concerning political freedoms of the youth and the

general public, other pandemic-related issues involved corruption and over-

expenditure in the government. Chiefly of these issues include the state insurer,

PhilHealth Corporation‘s PHP15-billion corruption scandal that forced many of

its officials to resign, the PHP389-million ―beach nourishment program‖ of the

Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for Manila Bay, as

well as countless other allegations of misused funds and overpricing regarding

18
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Coronavirus test kits (Gozum 2020;

Ramos, 2020; Ravelo, 2020).

According to a recent study published by Lewis (2017), corruption in the

Philippines has always been a longstanding problem and can be blamed for

perpetuating poverty and inequality in our country. While this issue is not new,

corruption during times of crisis such as pandemics and natural disasters certainly

take on a more evil definition. It deteriorates trust on government integrity at a

time when unity is a must. In fact, according to a separate study by Brillantes and

Fernandez (2011), corruption and graft are one of the primary reasons as to why

public trust in government continues to decline in the Philippines.

These pandemic-era corruption and over-expenditure allegations such as

that in Manila Bay, once definitely proven by the Philippine justice system, can

be an important issue of concern for youth voters who seek change and reforms

for our corruption-ridden government.

Issues on Pandemic and Disaster Response

Early into the COVID-19 Pandemic, concerned youth groups were already

protesting for their public health demands in response to the Duterte

administration‘s handling of the coronavirus. A report by Tarinay (2020) even

documented that by as early as March, young Filipinos were already taking their

demands through the popular video-sharing platform, Tiktok. These youth groups

and concern youth citizens called for increased ―mass testing‖ as well as a more

medical—instead of militaristic—approach against the global pandemic. One

19
separate study by Vallejo and Ong (2020) contains evidence of this claim, as it

found that ―crisis driven public health responses are necessarily intrusive and in

the Philippines has historically been imposed in a military context,‖ (p.6).

Other crises also emerged later that year. From late October to early

November, six consecutive cyclones hit the Philippines in a span of just four

weeks, including Typhoon Ulysses and Super Typhoon Rolly, which was the

world's most powerful typhoon in 2020. These typhoons culminated in a series of

devastating floods across Luzon, with some northern areas experiencing the worst

case of flooding in more than 4 decades (Reuters, 2020).

These incidences of natural calamities, public health challenges, coupled

with an increasingly troublesome government response have renewed debate on

the concept of ―resiliency‖ and created youth-led demands for accountability

across all levels of government. A report by Rappler (2020a) even found that

these issues increased volunteerism among youth—especially with the use of

social media—to make up for government shortcomings.

Issues on Online Classes

The resumption of education during the Coronavirus pandemic remains

one of the foremost issues facing the youth not only in the Philippines but all

around the world. Inter-governmental organizations themselves have published

statistical reports tackling the impact of COVID-19 to education:

The COVID-19 pandemic has created the largest disruption of education

systems in history, affecting nearly 1.6 billion learners in more than 190

20
 countries and all continents. Closures of schools and other learning spaces

have impacted 94 per cent of the world‘s student population, and up to

99 per cent in low and lower-middle income countries. (The United Nations

[UN], 2020, p.2)

Domestically, the situation of the education system in the country may be

much worse than global average. Latest data from the Department of Education

(DepEd, 2020) showed that there are 24.72 million students who enrolled in basic

education this school year, representing only 89.02 percent of the student

population that enrolled in 2019. This unfortunate statistic translates to around

three million Filipino students who may have dropped out of the school system in

pandemic times.

Regardless of these numbers, the openings of classes for both public and

private schools have pushed through despite many delays due to the shift towards

distance learning. However, despite efforts to offer different options to make

education more accessible and inclusive during the ―new normal‖ students around

the country still experience challenges and are left behind, especially those

coming from marginalized backgrounds (Baticulon et al., 2020).

With no end in sight for the pandemic at the time of this paper‘s writing,

these challenges are likely to play a significant role in the perceptions and outlook

of the youth in the near future. Further research must be done in order to fully

understand the learning crisis‘ impact on our nation‘s political landscape ahead of

the 2022 national elections.

21
Issues on LGBTQIA+ Rights

LGBT rights issues also erupted on par with the many other pandemic-

related issues in the country. In September 07, 2020, President Rodrigo Duterte

granted absolute pardon to former US Marine Lance Corporal Joseph Scott

Pemberton for his murder of transgender Jennifer Laude in 2014. This revived

much awareness and public discourse on the state of transgender rights in the

country (Cabato, 2020).

There is also the recent issue surrounding the proposed Sexual Orientation

and Gender Identity Expression (SOGIE) Equality Bill. As of writing, it remains

as one of the most contentious and controversial proposals in Philippine

legislative history, constantly being shelved year after year since its first inception

more than two decades ago (Elemia, 2016).

Until resolved, LGBT issues and SOGIE equality will continue to matter

in public discourse especially for our country‘s more progressive-thinking youth.

A recent study by the Pew Research Center (2020) conducted in the Philippines

even found that younger generations tend to be more accepting of homosexuality

and LGBT rights than older generations. These statistics, coupled with the

increasing presence of youth-led LGBT activism in the country, can only go to

show that gender equality is still an issue that will not be overlooked by the

electorate, particularly the youth, anytime soon.

22
Other Domestic Issues

Other relevant pandemic-related issues include the planned but

discontinued abrogation of the United States and the Philippines‘ Visiting Forces

Agreement back in February, 2020 (Locsin, 2020); the Philippine House of

Representatives leadership crisis between incumbent Alan Peter Cayetano and

Rep. Lord Allan Velasco (Madarang, 2020b); the twin bombing incidents in Jolo,

Sulu (Bajo, 2020); the ongoing South China Sea dispute (Callar, 2020); and many

other more minor but still possibly significant issues in the eyes of the electorate

especially the youth. All these and more will ultimately affect our country‘s

electoral and political future and hence will require more research to understand

just how much that impact would be.

Social Issues

The global COVID-19 pandemic has also shed light on many existing

issues that go far beyond current events and politics. According to a study by

Karpman et al. (2020), these social issues are pre-existing ―symptoms‖ whose

effects, particularly on the youth and marginalized, have only been exacerbated

by the public health crisis.

Chiefly of these is COVID-19 misinformation. Around the world, false

information and conspiracy theories regarding the pandemic spread faster than the

virus itself via social media, text messages, and the Internet. According to a study

by Bursztyn et al. (2020), pandemic misinformation like these can have drastic

impacts on the lives of many people, showing evidence that areas exposed to

23
more misinformation experienced greater number of cases and deaths. In the

Philippines, the situation might even be grimmer. In 2018, the Program for

International Student Assessment found that only 0.1% of Filipino 15-year olds

can identify the difference between what is fact and what is not (Organisation for

Economic Co-operation and Development [OECD], 2018 as cited in Reysio-Cruz,

2020). These are indeed very alarming statistics; and it‘s made even more

alarming due to the fact that these 15-year old students are the very same

demographic that will be eligible to vote for the very first time in 2022.

Another social issue apart from misinformation is the rise of mental health

problems among the youth especially in light of lockdowns and stay-at-home

orders during the pandemic. The Department of Heatlh (DOH, 2020), as cited by

Xinhua (2020) revealed that after more than 7 months into the crisis, the

Philippines is already seeing a ―significant increase‖ in mental health related

cases with the number of monthly hotline calls rising by roughly 400% compared

to its pre-pandemic levels. A separate study by SWS (2020a) provided an even

bigger picture of the mental health crisis in our country, with more than 86% of

Filipinos saying they have been stressed during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Last but not the least is the issue on domestic violence which has also seen

a dangerous surge during the pandemic. Even during pre-pandemic times, 1 in 3

women around the world have already experienced some form of violence against

their lives. In the Philippines, a pre-pandemic study by the Center for Women‘s

Resources, as cited by the Institue for War & Peace Reporting (IWPR, 2020) even

found that at least one Filipina woman or child was abused every ten minutes in

24
our country. This time around, however, economic and social stresses brought on

by the pandemic, as well as restrictions on movement have only exacerbated the

existing conditions that breed domestic violence in the first place (United Nations

Women, 2020). Locally, the Commision on Human Rights (as cited in Collantes,

2020) has echoed the United Nations and also warned of the rise of domestic

violence cases linked to lockdown measures in the country. As early as March,

statistics showed that around 602 women, or an average of 8 every single day

were being maltreated or raped across the country while in lockdown (Belmonte,

as cited in Calleja, 2020).

The issue of domestic violence affects women and youth who are forced to

live in dangerous conditions inside their own homes—putting their own safety

and lives at risk. This issue, together with other relevant social ills impacting the

youth of today (such as misinformation and mental health problems) can all play

huge roles in shaping their perspectives and outlook in the near future. As such,

further study must be done in order to understand their impacts and create

pragmatic approaches to these challenges.

Global Issues

Globally, the COVID-19 Pandemic has led to worldwide social disruption,

mass cancellation and postponement of events, the Great Lockdown, and the

largest economic recession since the Great Depression (The New York Times,

2020). The year 2020 was also considered the ―worst year in terms of climate

25
change‖ by the Geospatial World (2020). In addition to all these, the pandemic

also saw many historic events and movements unfold from all around the world.

On May 25, 2020, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, George Floyd, a 46-year-

old African-American man, was killed by police while being arrested for

reportedly using a counterfeit bill. The next day, Floyd's death triggered

worldwide protests against police brutality, police racism, and lack of police

accountability. The protest quickly became the largest ever in United States

history and precipitated a cultural reckoning on racial injustice. They were

ongoing as of the Coronavirus pandemic and have since had profound impacts on

the worldwide socio-political landscape—including the Philippines (Barker et al.,

2020; Buchanan et al., 2020; Lo, 2020).

Aside from the George Floyd protests, other separate demonstrations also

sparked in many countries. There were the 2020 Hong Kong National Security

Bill protests, the Thailand Protests, the #EndSARS Protests, and the Belarus

Protests—all of them different movements that emerged during the COVID-19

Pandemic. Another noteworthy fact is that all of these protests including the

#BlackLivesMatter movement are primarily youth-led and youth-organized. This

reflects the growing pattern among youth worldwide who now tend to be more

politically active especially through the Internet. Filipino youth were also quick to

take part in these movements both online and offline as hundreds have even

protested in solidarity to these movements throughout the course of the

coronavirus pandemic (Brzozowski, 2020; Busari, 2020; Kilpatrick, 2020; Lo,

2020; Selway, 2020).

26
 On top of all these, the 2020 U.S. Election and the subsequent defeat of

incumbent President Donald Trump was also one of the key turning points in the

global coronavirus pandemic. In the Philippines, the U.S. elections made waves

online as young Filipinos erupted in joy and hope, as the hashtags ―#TayoNaman‖

and ―#Halalan2022‖ trended across many social media platforms. Inspired by the

American youth‘s voter turnout that proved decisive in their historic election,

netizens particularly younger generations have urged each other to register to vote

as well ahead of our own 2022 National Elections (Rappler, 2020b).

These global issues, while they extend beyond the geographic borders of

our country, certainly remain very important in the eyes of many young Filipinos.

Research must be done in order to grasp the far-reaching impacts of these global

movements on domestic politics such as that of the upcoming polls.

Elections and Democracy in the Philippines

The Article II Declaration of Principle and State Policies states in Section

1 that ―The Philippines is a democratic and republican State. Sovereignty resides

in the people and the government from the authority emanates from them‖

(Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines, 1987).

The Economist Intellectual Unit [EIU] (2019) declared that Philippines

ranked 54th on the global ranking and 9th on the regional ranking of Asia and

Australia with an overall score of 6.64 in the latest Democracy Index. It was

labeled as flawed democracy where countries have free and fair election and there

are issues such as infringement of freedom of media, and fundamental civil

27
liberties are respected. However, there are major shortcomings in other areas of

democracy, including governance issues, underdeveloped democratic culture and

low levels of political participation.

Dressel (2011) reveals in a conducted study why Philippines has long been

a mystery to democracy scholars. As reflected in the Constitution and in public

debates, nowhere else in the country has political aspirations diverged so radically

from day-by-day reality. Democracy in the Philippines is clouded by persistent

institutional shortcomings in accountability and the rule of law, insufficient

advances in the areas of equality and rights, and generally poor democratic result

compounded by dynastic practices despite of free and competitive election,

universal suffrage and a dynamic civil society.

Common Issues Faced During Elections and Campaign Seasons

Elections in the Philippines are one of the most important democratic

exercises for Filipino citizens. Voting is a democratic right and power that

Filipinos possess to elect officials to govern the country. But different common

issues have constantly impeded the integrity of this electoral process; these issues

have been pre-existing for generations and have greatly affected the results of the

elections in the past.

Velmonte (2020) outlined in his study that the Philippine elections are

frequently plagued by violence, fraud and anomalies. Different issues and

problems would arise during the election seasons like running out of ballot boxes

on poll stations, the missing of boxes, legitimate electors‘ name not found in the

28
voting list, outdated lists where dead people‘s name are still present and running

out of ink on stations causing the doubled vote of electors.

Issues on Vote Buying

According to a study by Abocejo (2014), ―In Philippine politics, buying votes

during elections is a phenomenon. Political candidates who use it as a political

tactic practice it clandestinely as under-ground operations.‖ It is concluded in the

study that all layers of the government are infiltrated by vote buying as practiced

in the Philippines. With bribery, coercion and aggressive mean to win the

electoral race, the veracity of vote-buying has become culturally intricate. In

developing-countries, vote-buying is commonly used by candidates to influence

the vote of elections (Gersbach & Mühe, 2011). A study of Çarkoğlu and Aytaç

(2015) that was conducted in Turkey states that strong supporters of a party, less-

educated voters and urban residents are the common target for vote-buying.

Canare et al. (2018) exposes in their study the different patterns in executed in the

last 2016 elections in the Philippines. Different material items were the most

common method of vote-buying which are mostly shirts, umbrellas, mugs and

others. Offering food, rice or groceries was the next most common method of

vote-buying. The most common method of vote-buying distinguished on literature

is purchasing of votes with cash was only third most common method. The least

common method was offering a potential voter a support or favor.

29
Issues on Electronic Voting Systems

The Commission on Election faced more problems with electronic

election system three months before the 2016 elections that was held May 9,

2016. Voting-counting machines (VCMs) are on of the latest major problems

(Esmaquel, 2016). Three years later in the 2019 elections, election officials once

again faced technical issues concerning voting-counting machines (VCMs). These

issues ranged from paper jams to malfunctioning machines being shipped out and

switching to manual counting (Rappler, 2019a).

Issues on Election Violence

Incidents of electoral violence decreased by 60 percent in 2019 election

compared to the last election of 2016 stated by the Philippine National Police

[PNP]. However, authorities have still reported a total of 43 incidents with 73

victims in addition to the cases in the 2016 elections that have 106 incidents with

192 victims (Caliwan, 2019). In the 2016 election, at least ten people died on the

Election Day as gunmen assaulted polling stations, ambushed vehicles and seized

voting machines (France-Presse & Lavallee, 2016). Filipino electors on different

provinces casted their votes for 2019 elections while other electors and poll

watchers have been the victim of the election-related violence. Shooting events

and explosions were reported on areas of Sulu, Maguindanao, Dalican Poblacion

and Cebu City. The blasts were believed by the election officers as an intention to

scare voters who ket going to their polling stations to cast their votes (Rappler,

2019b).

30
Social-Media Related Issues

According to We are Social and Hootsuite‘s annual digital report, as cited

by Gonzales (2019), Filipinos are still the world‘s heaviest users of social media

with more than 76 million users—75 million of whom are in Facebook. A

separate study also found that among all social media users in the country, the

biggest and most active consumers belong to the 15 to 24 years old age bracket—

or the Generation Z (Alcasid et al., 2016). In light of all these statistics, it is clear

that the youth in this country has an overwhelming presence online, leaving them

vulnerable to the many elements and dangers of the Internet such as

misinformation and worse—polarization.

While Facebook is particularly criticized for the role it played in

disseminating misinformation, such as during the 2016 U.S. Elections (Madrigal,

2017), other social media sites such as Twitter, which also has problematic issues

of its own, is gaining even more traction with Generation Zers. Twitter, in

particular, is seen as the one of the fastest-growing social media of choice for

these digital natives with 24% (and growing) of teens having Twitter accounts.

This is, in part, due to parents not typically using these social media sites; but for

the most part, this popularity may be attributed for its microblogging style that

promotes more intellectual and civic discussions, attracting Gen-Zers who tend to

be more expressive (Borca et al., 2015). However, Twitter is notorious for its

highly partisan and polarized environment. One study found that the network of

political discourse on the platform exhibits extremely limited connectivity

between left- and right-leaning users. This leads to many messages and ―tweets‖

31
that ―contain sentiments more extreme than one would expect to encounter in

face-to-face interactions‖ (Sounman & Sun, 2016).

The youth, being the most active users of both Facebook and Twitter, are

on the receiving end of the worst impacts of political polarization and

misinformation. And worse, the consequences this may have on the elections are

yet to be fully understood. Further research must aim to solve that lack of

understanding by finally shining light on issues facing Generation Z voters and

the real implications they may have on the future of our country.

Political Apathy and Critical Thinking Issues

A recent survey conducted by the Far Eastern University‘s Public Policy

Center, as cited by Malasig (2019), found that only 8% of Generation Zers

critically evaluate the information they find, while only 12% ask questions or

clarifications when presented with information. Moreover, according to the

survey, 24% or almost one-fourth of Gen-Zers said they never publicly

communicated their opinions about any cause. The findings indicated that the

young generation is largely uncritical and politically apathetic despite the easy

accessibility of information. This is reinforced by a separate study made by

Velasco (n.d.), as cited by Capadocia et al. (2008), which found that young people

would rather not get politically involved because doing so might have undue

repercussions (40% of respondents), does not result in any significant change

(30.5% of respondents) and is a waste of time (20% of respondents). According to

the same study, other reasons for political apathy among the youth are their fear

32
of being labeled activists or communists, and the influence of globalization and

capitalism on their attitudes. Unless resolved, all these issues and factors may

continue to disenfranchise our emerging Gen-Z electorate and will have

repercussions on our nation‘s future. It is important as well that research be able

to address these problems in order to provide some sort of scientific foundation

for future solutions that will help instill critical thinking among the young

generation.

Other Election Issues Faced by the Youth

Other more minor but still significant problems and issues gathered from

various related literature include the lack of voter education that leads to

uninformed citizenry (Defensor-Santiago, 2012), prevalence of political dynasties

and lack of substantial information on their roots and causes (Canare et al., 2013),

the threats of political memes (Garcia et al., 2019), and the discrepancies on

political engagement between urban middle-class young voters vs. rural and

village voters (Salvador et al., 2017).

All these are just some of the most common issues during election seasons

in the Philippines. These issues are constantly abused by candidates in order to

take advantage of the electorate, and often fraudulently. Research must take into

account electoral issues like these in future studies in order to understand, and

soon, maybe even mitigate their impacts on voters and secure our democratic

processes.

33
Generation Z

Generation Z (also known as Gen Z, iGen, or Centennials), refers to the

generation that was born after millennials between 1996-2010. Their generation is

particularly defined by the advent of the internet and social media; some of the

oldest are already expected to be complete college by 2020 (Business Insider,

n.d).

Generation Z is often referred to as the generation of the Internet, as it was

the first generation to be born after the Internet was popularized. From a young

age, they have used digital technologies and are familiar with the Internet and

social media, but they are not inherently literate technologically. The Pew

Research Center describes Generation Z as individuals born from 1997 onwards,

selecting this date for ―different formative experiences,‖ such as emerging

technological advances and socio-economic trends, including the widespread

availability of wireless internet connectivity and high-bandwidth cellular service,

and key world events, including the terrorist attacks of September 11th. In some

practices, generation Z is typically more risk-averse than previous generations

(Strauss & Howe, n.d.).

Their increased affinity with the digital world can have pivotal impacts on

their perspectives and outlook. This also makes them far more vulnerable to its

threats, such as misinformation and polarization. Further research should be

conducted to understand these phenomena and create effective solutions.

34
Upcoming 2022 Elections

The Commission on Elections [Comelec] projected the number of eligible

voters for the 2022 national elections to be approximately 62 to 63 million. The

numbers include new potential registrants who have registered for the first time.

Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez stated that for 2022, there are four million

possible registrants comprised of individuals who have turned 18, who may or

may not register to vote (Patinio, 2020).

In a research study from Mendoza and Jaminola (2019), it was claimed

that various political dynastic clans throughout the country are expected to have

an even stronger advantage going into the 2022 national elections. An assessment

provided by the same study also found that as of 2019, more than 85% of vote-

rich provinces in the country are still ruled by ―fat dynasties.‖ With this in mind,

it puts even greater weight on incoming first-time voters to pick and choose

wisely if we are to move on from the dynasty system.

The 2022 election will also serve as a referendum on whether the Duterte

administration can continue their mandate and policies—most notably Duterte‘s

push for a federalist government. However, it is steal unclear how or to what

extent Duterte‘s policies will affect the administration candidates in 2022

(Mendoza & Jaminola, 2019). Further research must be done in order to grasp the

current standing of the elections from the perspective of newer voters.

35
 Grounded
Conceptual Framework Theory

Data
Analysis

Data
Gathering

Figure 2.1 Reverse tree diagram illustrating the conceptual framework of this
research study

36
 Figure 2.1 illustrates the relationship between the variables present in this

research study. The diagram in the said figure is divided into two sides, left and

right, both showing the key terms and variables found in this paper. On the left, it

lists the various issues identified from related literature, each categorized

according to a common theme. The list is then collectively referred to as

―pandemic-related issues‖ as seen from the bottom right side.

On the right, the flow of the research with respect to its variables is

presented. Pandemic-related issues will be taken into account during Data

Gathering in order to determine the respondents‘ outlook towards the 2022

National Elections. From this, further analysis will be done to identify several

variables namely: the youth‘s most important issues, characteristic preferences for

leaders, and the youth‘s supported platforms.

37
 Chapter III

Methodology

Research Design

The methodological approach of this research is qualitative in nature.

Moreover, the data gathered in this study are co-constructed by the researchers

and the respondents through Constructivist Grounded Theory method (CGT). In

this approach, the researchers employed constant comparison between data-

gathering interviews to derive initial patterns or codes. These codes were then

compared and contrasted in subsequent interviews with more youth respondents

in order to further reaffirm or expand them until the researchers can confidently

group them into concepts. Concepts are then categorized and thereafter used to

derive meaningful theories about the correlations between pandemic related issues

and the outlook of the youth in the upcoming elections.

Constructivist Grounded Theory method is most applicable for this

qualitative study as the researchers sought to conceptualize the relationships

between current events and pandemic-related issues on the respondents‘ voting

perspectives. As such, there are no prior theories that can be used by the

researcher to guide their data analysis in the first place due to the unprecedented

nature of the COVID-19 Pandemic. Since they would have to construct and find

these emergent theories themselves from the data they gathered, the researchers

deemed that the Constructivist Grounded Theory method is the most suitable for

this qualitative study. Using this CGT approach, they did not just merely describe

38
the data they gathered but they were also able to construct conceptual theories that

better reflect and explain the observable phenomena between the COVID-19

Pandemic issues and the Gen-Z youth‘s political perspectives.

Research Locale

This research study was conducted in the Republic of the Philippines, with

most if not all respondents coming from places geographically nearby to the

researchers‘ institution which is in Lucena City, Quezon Province. The

researchers chose this locale as it is the most convenient in terms of accessibility

as well as for practical reasons. Incidentally, the locale is also part of the nation‘s

most vote-rich region, Region IV-A (COMELEC, 2019 as cited in Gavilan,

2019), and is the largest, most populous city in its province.

Population and Sampling

The respondents of the study are limited to Filipino citizens, specifically

younger Gen-Zers born from 2000 to 2004 based on the definition set by Pew

Research Center (2019) as cited by Strauss & Howe (n.d.). All respondents must

also be eligible but not necessarily registered to vote, which means that they

should be at least 18 years old on Election Day, a resident of the Philippines for at

least a year, and not otherwise disqualified by law or criminal conviction to vote

(The Voter‘s Registration Act, 1996).

For the data gathering procedure, the researchers conducted four cycles of

homogenous sampling—the first was through purposive quota sampling; and the

second, third and fourth were through theoretical quota sampling. For the first

39
cycle, six initial respondents were selected in advance through purposive quota

sampling. These first two samples were within the age bracket of 16 years old.

The next cycle of sampling occurred after the initial interview, with five more

respondents selected through theoretical quota sampling; this time, the

respondents fall under the age bracket of 17 years old. Theoretical sampling was

repeated two more times for the third and fourth cycles in order to sample 4 and 2

additional respondents in the 18-19 and 20-21 age range respectively. Upon

conclusion of the fourth cycle, the researchers were confident they have achieved

data saturation (the point at which the researchers fail to collect fresh

information). All in all, there were a total of 13 respondents spread out through 13

interviews in 4 cycles. Each interview is compared and contrasted with the

subsequent interview and/or the previous interviews if any.

Research Instruments

The researchers prepared in advance two research instruments; a pre-

interview survey and a main interview schedule. The pre-interview survey

contained questions intended to gather background information on the

respondents as well as their voting history and registration status. This survey is

important for the purposes of theoretical sampling that will be conducted in the

latter part of the data gathering procedure.

On the other hand, the main interview schedule contained the bulk of

questions for the duration of the interview. It aims to gather the data that will be

analyzed by the researchers in order to answer the research questions.

40
Furthermore, it is divided into three parts with a total of 13 questions, some with

follow-ups, and they are all directed to the respondents of the study. Each part of

the interview schedule tackled one specific research question and the respondents‘

answers were also grouped accordingly.

The first part contains five questions pertaining to the different issues

during the COVID-19 Pandemic and the respondents‘ experiences or sentiments

toward these issues; it also sought to identify which, if any, bothers or matters

most to them the most. On the other hand, the second part deals with the

repercussions of these issues on the respondents‘ outlook or views on the

upcoming elections. It tried to make sense of the respondents‘ reason s and

personal explanations as to how pandemic-related issues have affected them at a

personal level. The third part further extends this line of questioning and aimed to

ask what the respondents‘ perspectives and expectations actually look like. These

questions focused on more objective details of what they expect of the elections,

and what their voting preferences may be.

All the questions were designed by the researchers to prompt answers that

are as expressive, meaningful, and as close to the respondents‘ true sentiments as

possible. The researchers recognize the multifaceted nature of each response and

thus ensured that utmost objectivity was to be observed at all times. All questions

were then presented and validated by the research adviser; and the revision of

questions which needed improvements was later done by the researchers prior to

the interviews.

41
Data Gathering Procedure

The data gathering procedure of this research study was divided into four

cycles, each with its own sampling, interview process, and coding. For the first

cycle, the researchers conducted purposive sampling to select 2 initial

respondents. Afterwards, an interview was conducted and the data collected from

these interviews were analyzed for codes.

The second cycle followed immediately after the researchers have finished

coding the data from the first interview. For this cycle, four new respondents have

been selected theoretically, which means that the researchers have picked the next

respondents depending on the data they gathered in the first cycle. Because of

this, they prioritized respondents with different backgrounds in order to get more

unique data as they undergo the interview process. After this cycle‘s interview,

the researchers employed constant comparative analysis and memoing analysis.

The third cycle followed the same order as the second cycle. Four more

respondents have been selected via theoretical sampling and they have all

undergone the interview process. Thereafter, the researchers analyzed new data

from this third interview and compared it with previous analyses. This cycle

repeats for the fourth and last time with the final two respondents also selected

through theoretical sampling. Final analysis was done in order to arrive at a

constructivist grounded theory (CGT).

This four-cycle methodology is deemed crucial by the researchers in order

to reach enough data saturation, and to be able to guarantee best results. Through

42
these cycles, CGT was developed inductively from data that was continuously

refined and analyzed by the researchers.

All prospective respondents for this study was given a pre-interview

survey that contained questions intended to gather background information on the

respondents as well as their voting history and registration status. This pre-

interview questionnaire was important for the purposes of conducting theoretical

sampling.

Once they had answered the pre-interview questionnaire, they will have

proceeded to the interview process which was done synchronously or

asynchronously depending on the respondent‘s preference. With regards to the

interview process, the questions in the schedule were kept the same for every

respondent, regardless of which cycle they belong to. Prior to each interview

process, all respondents were also given an interview primer that contained all the

necessary information as to what the study is all about. Besides background

information, the primer also includes necessary disclaimers, protocols, consent

waivers, and a non-disclosure agreement made by the researchers to the

respondents. During the interview process, both the researchers and the

respondents communicate through online video conferencing software. Questions

were given chronologically as they were prepared in the interview schedule, while

follow-up and/or clarification questions were asked only when the researchers

found it necessary. Respondents were not, at any point in time, forced or coerced

to answer a question they did not want to give an answer to.

43
 Video and audio recording software was used throughout the interview

process for later use during transcription and data analysis. Rest assured that both

the researchers and respondents have waived their consent before any recording

took place.

Lastly, due gratitude was expressed by the researchers as soon as every

interview has formally concluded. Respondents were also given a certificate of

appreciation in recognition of their meaningful contribution to the research study.

Research Ethics

For this study, the researchers observed all ethical principles and have

guaranteed that all participants including themselves are treated accordingly.

Informed consent waivers from the respondents were secured by the researchers

before any involvement in this research paper. In case they were less than 18

years old, parental consent was secured alongside their consent waivers. All forms

of participation, from communications and correspondence to answering

interview questions, were all voluntary and unconditional on the side of the

respondents. During the pre-interview and interviews, respondents were not, at

any point in time, forced or coerced to answer questions they did not want to give

an answer to.

Besides informed/parental consent, a non-binding confidentiality

agreement was also presented to the respondents as part of the invitation letter,

telling them that the researchers pledge not to reveal any private or compromising

information if they arise during the course of the interview. Moreover,

44
pseudonyms had also been used in place of the respondents‘ real names in this

study for added security.

After the study has concluded, all recordings have been deleted to erase

any digital footprint that may be in violation of the respondents‘ privacy and

consent.

Data Analysis

Figure3.1. Flowchart showing the process of data analysis as conducted by the

researchers; based on “Grounded theory research: A design framework for
novice researchers” (Chun-Tie et al., 2019)

45
 Raw data from every data gathering cycle underwent constant comparative

analysis and memoing analysis. These are essential analytical processes in any

Grounded Theory (GT) study that will aid in coding and category development.

Since the data gathering procedure contains four different cycles, there

were also four sets of data analyses carried out by the researchers. In every cycle,

memoing analysis was conducted before and during the interviews, while constant

comparative analysis was conducted after the interviews. Firstly, through

memoing analysis, the researchers detailed why and how decisions were made

relating to sampling the respondents, coding, interpreting, and conceptualizing the

respondents‘ answers. Memos were made by the researchers to serve as informal

analytic notes about the data, relationships and their understanding thereof and to

document these things as they spontaneously occurred during the interview

process.

On the other hand, unlike memoing that is done throughout the interview,

constant comparative analysis only occurred after every interview has finished

when the researchers were ready to compare and contrast the newfound codes and

themes with those of previous interviews.

Data collection and data analysis was carried out concurrently by the

researchers. During the first interview set of the first cycle, memoing was done as

the first respondents were undergoing the interview. Soon after they finish, the

researchers transcribed the responses and began initial coding wherein they

identified codes in the raw data. The researchers then conduct theoretical

46
sampling in preparation for the next cycle of interviews. In this second cycle,

memoing was also done during the interviews with the respondents.

Subsequently, after the interview has finished, the researchers transcribed their

responses and then continued their Initial Coding by identifying new codes and

employing constant comparison with the previous interviews to group these codes

into concepts.

Once these concepts were made, the researchers resampled for more

respondents who will have to undergo the third cycle of interviews. Memoing was

done yet again during these interviews. Afterwards, the researchers transcribed

their responses for the intermediate coding stage. In this stage of data analysis, the

researchers had to refine their codes, aggregate them together with the previous

codes into new concepts, and then identify from these concepts various

categories.

The fourth cycle of interviews began as soon as the data analysis for the

third cycle completes. Researchers again find new theoretical samples to undergo

the last batch of interviews. After transcription, the researchers conduct advanced

coding which is the stage wherein they identified relationships between these

categories and further refined them to be able to create themes.

The final stage of analysis is theoretical analysis. In this stage, the

researchers analyze their data one last time in search for common relationships

and connections between the themes that they found. From these themes they

47
identified a theory that has emerged from the data and that satisfies the research

problem of this study.

These data, including the codes, concepts, categories, and the themes the

researchers identified inductively out of them, were then presented in figurative

and narrative format, together with the results of the memoing analyses that were

conducted during the interviews.

48
 Chapter IV

Results and Discussions

This chapter presents an analysis and interpretation of interviews

conducted with eligible Gen-Z voters aged 16 to 21. The study was undertaken to

uncover the multifaceted perspectives of eligible Gen-Z voters on the 2022

Philippine National Elections within the context of issues arising during the

COVID-19 pandemic. A qualitative analysis was used to discuss the different

themes that emerged inductively out of the raw data and how these themes can be

used to formulate a grounded theory in relation to the research problems.

Theme 1: HOW GEN-Z VOTERS PERCEIVE THE ISSUES DURING THE

COVID-19 PANDEMIC

The COVID-19 Pandemic is now the most formative Generation Defining

Moment faced by the Generation Z (The Center for Generational Kinetics [CGK],

2020). According to the CGK (2020), a Generation Defining Moment is an event

or external influence that occurs at a formative time in a generation‘s life stage,

usually an age range from childhood through early adulthood. These moments

significantly impact an entire generation‘s views, beliefs, and attitude toward their

world usually due to fear and uncertainty caused by the event and its aftermath.

Such an example is how the September 11 Terrorist Attacks impacted Millenials

in the same way the COVID-19 Pandemic is now impacting their generational

successors—Gen-Zers.

49
 Furthermore, the Society for Human Resource Management (2020) found

that the COVID-19 Pandemic is hitting the Generation Z exceptionally and

disproportionately harder than other generations across many aspects of their

lives. In line with this, data analysis of the findings uncovered in deeper context

one of these said aspects, specifically, the socio-political aspect of the pandemic‘s

impact towards Gen-Z.

The first theme discusses the Gen-Z youth‘s perceptions of the status quo

particularly in the course of the COVID-19 Pandemic and how they act in

response to the socio-political issues that emerged during such time.

Subtheme 1: Two-Facetedness of Pandemic Experiences

The first subtheme explores in-depth the pandemic experiences of Gen-

Zers. All respondents were given identical prompts that ask them to describe their

experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. The respondents gave mixed

descriptions with some student respondents even saying:

“Good, even if there are depressing moments” –R1

“For the past few months having this pandemic, I experienced

extraordinary things like staying at home for several months which is not my
thing to be exact but kinda used to it now. I also tried to do some activities since
people around me are having their good time learning and exploring new
hobbies” –R6

Their responses were mixed descriptions in a sense because it does not

explicitly indicate purely positive or negative undertones; rather, it is always a

mix of the two. Moreover, the mentioning of positive aspects of their experiences

50
in the responses usually serves as a precursor to them justifying the negative, as

seen in this response:

“malungkot pero syempre masaya pa rin kasi magkakasama pa rin

kaming pamilya” –R12

Just with any other natural disaster or calamity, the culture of resilience

remains felt even during a pandemic. This result to a dueling consciousness

among Filipinos whenever going through such a disaster as tendencies to always

feel optimistic and positive try to outweigh the negative emotions caused by the

severity of the situation. A study by Bolletino (2018) on Filipinos‘ perceptions of

disaster resilience only reaffirms this notion with their findings saying that 2 out

of 3 Filipinos maintain a positive resilient outlook during disasters.

The two-facetedness of positive-resilient versus negative perceptions of

the COVID-19 Pandemic is seen with even more clarity in the following

responses as respondents attempt to list down both their positive and negative

experiences:

“luckily our culture kicks in and showed me the optimistic side of life and
allowing me to get some opportunities in these trying times.” –R1
This pandemisted my mental health stability and I had a hard tim
―Going out was also one of my ways to ease my troubled mind that's why it
was hard for me to cope up during the lockdown. Everyone has to adjust that's
why I can also feel the hardships of people. Despite that, I continue to survive
and not let these unfortunate circumstances overwhelm me.” –R10

In contrast, there were also some instances wherein respondents described

their experiences as purely negative, especially when it relates to their mental

health:

51
 “Madami ring mga problems na nag-arise kagaya ng mental health
problems parang nagtaas yung chances na magkaroon ako ng anixety at
depression kasi nga di sanay sa gantong setting, sanay sa personal touch, ganun.
Walang masyadong personal touch ngayon”-R9

In the same manner, many respondents also expounded on purely positive

experiences. For instance, in the responses below, they shared having this similar

positive experience during the pandemic:

“Siguro I must say na I‟ve been more socially and politically uhmm
engaged than I was nung wala pang pandemic” –R5

“I was also becoming more aware of the current situation in the

Philippines through news and social media.” –R6

“So far yung pandemic…ah…just like the other people…ah…parang

mas nagiging mas aware tayo ganon,” –R11

“Para sa aking karanasan ngayong pandemya ay naging mulat lalo ang

aking mga mata tungkol sa usapin ng politika - problema, maduming sistema at
mga buwayang pulitiko na nakaupo sa ating pamahalaan. Nagkaroon lalo ako
ng lakas ng loob ubang bigyan ng konstraktibong kritisismo lalo na ang mga
proyekto na inilunsad upang pigilan ang patuloy na pag taas ng kaso ng COVID-
19 sa bansa” –R13

As seen above, respondents are now beginning to touch on the issue of

socio-political awareness and engagement. Most respondents who shared this

positive experience viewed it as a direct result of the COVID-19 Pandemic. This

claim is not erroneous, in fact, a study by Albrecht (2017) found that political

attitudes are especially prone to change after deadly natural disasters such as

pandemics. He also adds that social and political trust on government usually

decreases in high-casualty disasters. This may explain the general increase in

socio-political engagement among Gen-Z voters which is also incidentally the

second subtheme for this study.

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 However, still in line with the two-faceted nature of Gen-Z voters‘

perceptions of their own experiences, some respondents felt the opposite:

“wala akong magawa about things, ganern. Sobrang out of control ng

mga nangyayari, yun.” –R7

The respondent was showing signs of cynicism and disaffection from

politics. Koerth (2019) defines cynicism as a general distrust or pessimism

towards political processes and the government itself. It causes voters to feel

alienated and powerless. These varying and often contrasting responses are again

the result of two-facetedness among Gen-Zers‘ experiences. It highlights just how

differently different people experience the same global pandemic and what its

implications may be on the socio-political perspectives of those experiencing it.

Subtheme 2: General Increase in Socio-political Engagement Due to

Pandemic-Related Factors

Deli (2021) defines socio-political engagement, or simply, civic

engagement, is any individual or group activity addressing issues of public

concern. Activities that fall under such engagement include joining virtual

videoconferencing events to learn more about the upcoming elections, finding

ways to contribute to becoming an active voter, spreading awareness or

registration for the upcoming elections, spreading awareness of local and national

issues, among many other similar actions.

This recurring theme of increased socio-political engagement was seen

when respondents were asked to describe their pandemic experiences. This

53
phenomena was explored further when respondents were asked to elaborate on

their socio-political engagement by comparing it to pre-pandemic times. As some

of the respondents put it:

“As an individual living in this world where COVID 19 is still

happening I am more engaged to currents events now compared to pre-
pandemic times” –R4

“Ano dati ano di ako nanunuod ng mga balita pero simula nung
nagkaganto nagka Covid ano na nunuod na rin ako ang ng balita” –R12

Further, their responses mainly touched on two broad concepts; firstly,

they described the different factors affecting their socio-political engagement, and

secondly, they described the current state of their socio-political engagement

during the pandemic. The former discusses the different impacts of both personal

and external factors to their engagement while the latter discusses how they

actually perceive their own engagement. On to the former, these respondents gave

their insight:

“Mas nagkaroon ako ng oras upang masubaybayan ang mga balita

noong pandemya sapagkat nasa aming tahanan lang ako dulot na rin ng
lockdown o restriksyon” -R13

“sometimes I‟m too busy with school works that…ah…that, uhm, looking
at the news is very hard... But now, ah, since it‟s digital, I can just look at Twitter
or Google and I‟ll see the latest news in Philippines or in terms of COVID,
especially.” –R3

“More than ever actually since I can type more than talking.” –R1

Based on these and other similar responses, the researchers were able to

identify three main factors for one‘s socio-political engagement during the

pandemic: technology and digitalization; personal factors; and external factors.

The first factor, technology and digitalization, is a double-edged sword. For

54
many, it provides them convenience and more accessibility by engaging online

but for some it also presents new challenges.

“Araw araw po bukod po sa naka antenna lang kame iisang channel

lang po yung nasasagap sa amin”

However, going back to the responses with more positive views on

technology and digitalization‘s impacts, the benefits for them clearly outweigh the

harms. For instance, in R1‘s remark of ―I can type more than talking‖ R1 wants to

show that it feels easier for him now to engage in issues due to the virtual nature

of the new normal. The same can be said of the other respondents.

Another factor aside from digitalization, are personal factors that relate

more towards a person‘s personal choices or daily life. R13 and R3 gave clear

characterizations of how these personal factors have impacted their socio-political

engagement positively in the past few months. Due to lockdown restrictions, they

enjoy an increased amount of personal free time which according to them, they

use for keeping themselves up-to-date with the news and socio-politically

engaging online. An analysis by the United Nations International Children‘s

Emergency Fund (2020) determined that digitalization does in fact have this

effect on youth civil engagement. According to the same study, many adolescents

and young people now use digital spaces to develop their civic identities and

express political stances in creative ways, now with a different level of agency

that may not have been available to them in traditional civic spaces.

“since my family are always watching news, before, I just overhead it

now I have interest on watching the whole program of the news.” –R6

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 “mahilig po kase sa balita yung magulang ko kaya ayun nakikinuod na
lang po ako.” –R2

“I can say that I am more engaged now with current events because I
write in a publication,” –R10

As seen above, some other factors influencing socio-political engagement

may be external factors. These include pressure from peers or family as well as

socio-political engagement as a career or obligation.

Moreover, on to the second broad concept found under this subtheme,

respondents are now describing the state of their socio-political engagement.

According to some respondents:

“Ano dati ano di ako nanunuod ng mga balita pero simula nung
nagkaganto nagka Covid ano na nunuod na rin ako ng balita,” –R12

“yung pandemic yung naging eye opener sakin about things ganon.
Parang naging open ako sa social issues,” –R7

“Syempre nakikita na natin yung mga ganitong bagay,

mga…uhm…kamalian then why not na maging engaged ka pa, wag mo sarilihin,
kailangan mo pang mag-educate ng ibang tao parang maging engaged din sila,”
–R9

In some responses, there is a profound appreciation for one‘s sense of

responsibility towards other people. This is called altruism and it is an actual

phenomenon during the COVID-19 pandemic where people tend to be more

selfless and concerned about others more than ever (Children‘s Hospital of

Philadelphia, 2020). Furthermore, respondents‘ socio-political engagement also

developed into habits such as what was said in R12‘s response. They become part

of youth voters‘ daily routines and become a staple of daily life. Last but not the

least, another key finding from these responses is that respondents actually have a

deeper and more comprehensive understanding now of issues compared to before

56
driven by increased exposure to socio-political engagement. This segues perfectly

to the third subtheme of this research paper which discusses the increased socio-

political awareness of Gen-Zers on key issues.

Subtheme 3: Increased Socio-political Awareness on Key Issues

A German study by Reichert (2016) found that socio-political engagement

translates directly into political knowledge or awareness and vice versa. The same

study argues that as this happens, chances also increase that a particular citizen

will participate more in politics. This effect is seen on the respondents and their

responses when they were asked to recall different issues they have encountered

throughout the year. None of these respondents were given any cheat sheets or

answer keys of any sort yet they were able to give comprehensive outlines of

different issues from memory alone.

“ABS-CBN shutdown, Red-tagging of students from state colleges and

universities, Anti-Terror Bill, Dolomite Beach, Mañanita Party of Debold Sinas,
Death of Sonya and Anton Gregorio.“ –R8

“So yun, ang naiisip ko, ang palaging lumalabas sa isip ko is that yung
freedom of speech then yung killings, human rights violation, academic freedom,
yun yung pinakalatest; yung culture ng impunity then police brutality yan yung
mga ganun, fake news.” –R9

Other respondents gave similarly worded responses, often enumerating

controversial and pressing issues across many aspects of society. Based on these,

the researchers found two broad categories of issues the respondents were able to

identify; first, the exclusively domestic issues, and second, the general issues.

Exclusively domestic issues include those which occur particularly or are

especially felt inside the Philippines. The respondents were very much aware of

57
the issues under this category and were able to identify the following: issues on

natural disasters and calamities; issues on activist crackdown and red-tagging

controversy; concerns on misplaced government priorities and expenditures;

online distance learning crisis; issues on the government‘s pandemic response;

issues on government corruption; concerns surrounding a China-oriented foreign

policy; extrajudicial killings and police brutality; issues relating to the ABS-CBN

shutdown and freedom of press/speech; as well as issues on high profile

quarantine violations.

On the other hand, the respondents were also able to identify issues which

are more general in nature. These general issues usually include those related to

the pandemic as well as societal issues faced throughout the world. Among those

identified under this category include: social isolation and mental health issues;

lockdown issues and issues relating to restrictions to movement and activity;

public health issues caused by the COVID-19 pandemic; issues on labor and

employment; issues related to pandemic-frontliners; COVID-19 misinformation

and fake news; issues on LGBTQ+ rights and equality; issues related to the

economy and commerce; and lastly, issues relating to COVID-19 vaccines.

Subtheme 4: Affinity of Youth Voters towards Issues of Personal and

National Concern

The fourth subtheme discusses how the youth generally receives these

issues either in the form of worry or concern. Political Affinity, the opposite of

Political Antipathy, is the broader terminology used to refer to this effect on

58
youth. Loewen (2010) defines Affinity as the sympathy felt for something, and in

this case, those are the different socio-political issues.

The respondents were asked to identify which of the issues they have

mentioned holds the most significance for them on two criterias: firstly,

signifance of personal concern, and secondly, significance of national concern.

The difference between the two is that behind the issues that are significant of

personal concern, they usually have a more individualist or personal reason as to

why that is significant for them. On the contrary, issues of national concern were

mostly general issues where reasons for their signifance are more macro-scale and

altruistic. Here are some responses from those who identified issues of personal

concern:

“For me, it is the Anti-Terror Bill because it is unconstitutional and it

violates the section IV of the bill of rights, the right of expression. With the ATB,
everyone's lives are in danger because anyone can be labeled as a terrorist.” –
R8

“Personally, ang pinakasgnificant dun ay yung freedom of speech kasi

ever since parang face to face super daldal ko na, basta parang gustong-gusto
ko talaga when it comes to certain issues na makikipag-debate ka, makikipag-
ano ka sa mga friends mo, ganyan-ganyan. And when that freedom of speech is
violated kasi ang sakit sa pakiramdam parang…uhm…di ka na
makakapagsalita..parang your silence na para san pa yung boses mo diba,
parang ganun, kung di ka magsasalita about certain issues like that, yun” –R9

“As a Gen-Z voter, I think the issue that holds most significance in my
personality is SOGIE Bill. I associate this to myself because I support the
community and just like their colorful flag, it represents my personality.” –R10

As seen in the responses above, the issues of personal concern to many

Gen-Z voters more often than not relates to their selves and their free expression.

R8 and R9, for instance, was concerned in the context of political expression

while R10 was more keen on being able to express their sexuality. This does not

59
come as a surprise; after all, freedom of expression has always been a central and

essential part of Generation Z‘s cultural upbringing (Fontelera, 2020).

Taking a look now at the responses of Gen-Z youth when asked to identify

the issues they thinka re of a significant national concern:

“Ah edi yung mismomg covid kasi ano lahat tayo naranasan yung hirap
nong dumating yung covid eh hindi lang yung bansa natin yung ibang bansa
rin.” –R12

“Ang pagpili ng brand ng vaccine sapagkat makikita dito kung papaano

pinapahalagahan ng pamahalaan ang kanyang mamamayan. Napakahalagang
isa alang-alang ang kaligtasan ng bawat Pilipino” –R13

“Of course, issue that is significant for the country, I think it‟s the
incompetent leaders. The issues regarding the incompetent leaders on our
country,” –R3

“Uhm…for most significant for country yung culture of impunity nga

tsaka yung police brutality.” –R9

The most obvious inference from these answers and others is that Gen-Z

youth voters are highly worried and concerned of national issues. Not only do

they engage with and are aware of these issues, they are also concerned to some

degree. Key issues that the Gen-Z perceive to be issues with national significance

include those mainly about the COVID-19 pandemic, the justice system, the

education system, social issues, and economic issues.

60
Figure 4.1. How Gen-Z Voters Perceive the Issues during the COVID-19
Pandemic
The figure above provides a graphical illustration of the first theme,

particularly on how the Gen-Z voters perceive the issues during the COVID-19

Pandemic. From the top, it shows that there are two different ways on looking at

how Gen-Zers experience the pandemic; there are positive aspects and negative

aspects. Under negative aspects, the researchers found that individuals experience

61
frustration in terms of their social interactions, emotional frustration in the form

of depression and loneliness, culture and lifestyle shock due to the major

adjustments in way of life, inability to keep up with rapid digitalization of society,

as well as socio-political disenfranchisement and cynicism on issues. On the other

hand, positive aspects of the pandemic include sanguine and optimistic attitudes

in light of difficult situations, developing a sense of resilience, self-improvement

and exploration of new opportunities, as well as increased inclinations toward

being socio-politically engaged. The figure also shows how socio-political

engagement can increase or decrease depending on factors identified from the

data. These factors include the impact of technology and digitalization, personal

factors, as well as external factors. Moreover, under increasing socio-political

engagement comes many implications for Gen-Z voters; these include: sense of

responsibility towards others, development of socio-political engagement as a

personal habit, and having an increased socio-political awareness on issues.

Nearing the bottom part of the figure, we can see how socio-political awareness

on issues translate to worry and concern over both domestic and general issues.

Consequently, the respondents identified these issues which are also reflected on

the figure.

Theme 2: HOW THE PANDEMIC AND PANDEMIC-RELATED ISSUES

SHAPED THE PERSPECTIVES OF GEN-Z VOTERS TOWARD THE

2022 NATIONAL ELECTIONS

A study by the Morning Consult (2020) confirms that the coronavirus

pandemic is impacting Gen-Zers‘ political worldview at unprecedented levels.

62
And since the previous theme has already dicussed in length how the youth

perceives or experiences the pandemic and the issues during it, the second theme

will extend this and discuss how exactly these things might affect the political

perspectives of Gen-Z voters. In addition to that, this theme also discusses the

impacts to voters‘ outlook of the elections as well as their general aims and

objectives.

Subtheme 5: Two-facetedness of Impact to Voters’ Political

Views/Perspectives

The COVID-19 Pandemic presents two very contrasting effects on voters‘

political views/perspectives: it may either be a cause for political engagement and

awareness or if not; political cynicism and disenfranchisement (Knowles, 2020;

Kay, 2020). In line with this, the researchers found similarly mixed responses

from the youth voters. Some showed signs of mentality change as well as positive

changes in their political perspectives, while in others the pandemic only fostered

political antipathy among youth voters as well as disapproval and resentment.

Onto the positive note, as seen in these responses:

“We all know a lot of issues resurfaced, So…uh…so in terms of political

perspective…uh…it made me more aware…uhm…and more, yeah, more aware
what politics is all about,” –R3

“The current government policies and incumbents made me raised my

standards in choosing the right leader for our country.” –R8

“Mas pinagtibay nito ang aking pananaw tungkol sa hindi maayos na

pulitika ng bansa at ng mga nakaupo sa pwesto.” –R13

The select responses above gives us a general picture of how the pandemic

and pandemic-related issues are positively impacting peoples‘ views. With that,

63
the researchers identified and classified five positive effects: it broadens youth

voters‘ political views/perspectives, it makes them more outspoken in expressing

their views, it increases their sense of responsibility towards issues, it causes a

reassessment and raising of one‘s voting standards, and lastly, it causes a

reaffirmation and strengthening of already held beliefs/perspectives.

On the other hand, these issues have also caused political cynicism,

disapproval, and resentment for other respondents, as seen here in these

responses;

“yung issue na naano ako na nagchange sa perspective ko na ano na ng

lahat, trait na ng lahat nung militar, police basta mga law enforcers na parang
nakakatakot na sila for me, ganun.” –R9

“alam mo yung may gustong gusto ka talaga ipaglaban up to the point

na ayun you them talaga na bumagsak kasi its the only thing you can do for the
country.” –R11

“The older the person in power, the more stupid they are.” –R1

In stark contrast with the more lightly worded sentiments of respondents

who say the pandemic positively changed their perspective, these responses above

gives us a general picture of how the pandemic and pandemic-related issues are

negatively impacting their views instead. With that, the researchers identified and

classified five negative effects: it fosters resentment towards people with

contradicting political views, it fosters resentment towards the government and its

leaders, it causes unsatisfaction with the status quo, it fosters resentment towards

police and military authorities, and last but certainly not the least, it fosters

radicalization and extreme views/perspectives.

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Subtheme 6: Impacts of Issues Towards Voter’s Political Perspectives

The sixth subtheme discusses in detail what the political perspectives and

views of youth voters actually look like considering the many positive and

negative influences and factors mentioned in previous subthemes. In line with

this, the respondents were asked to describe their political views/perspectives.

Similarly with prior subthemes, the respondents gave yet another mix of two

contrasting ideas in their responses which mainly has to do with whether they are

socio-politically engaged or whether they are politically disenchanted.

Political disenchantment is defined by Christensen (2013) as being deeply

cynical or indifferent towards the political system as a whole. Hence, the

politically disenchanted views are those which express no affinity towards politics

or politicians. On the other hand and as previously defined by Deli (2021) in this

research paper, socio-political engagement describes the opposite.

Among socio-politically engaged respondents, here are some key

responses as to how they would describe their political views:

“I describe it naman as liberal pa rin. So yun, liberal pa rin, yun lang

open sa mga ideas” –R9

“I‟m more of the uhmm pro individuals rights and democracy and ahh
something like that” –R5

The responses above are indicative of the youth‘s political views with

regards to the political spectrum. According to Heywood (2017), the political

spectrum is a system of classifying political positions where left-wing politics and

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right-wing politics are often presented as opposed to each other. For instance, in

the response of R9, they explicitly identify as having liberal views, which is often

associated with supporting equality, as well as civil and political liberties

(McLean & McMillan, 2011). On the other hand, responses from R5 are more

specifically libertarian, which means they generally support individual rights, free

market, and democratic systems (Petrik, 2010).

“I actually I tend to think of my own conclusion rather that the

conclusions made by the public. So…ah…just so I can formulate my own
opinions” –R3

“Ah…ayun parang natuto ako na yung judgement ko ay based sa facts

yung parang dahil sa nangyayari” –R7

“I was never a Dilawan nor a DDS and I critique the government for the
Filipino people and not to any political parties.” –R8

“I always side with what is right.” –R11

The abovewritten responses coming from select respondents, while

similarly positive in nature with those of earlier answers, presents different non-

political spectrum based views or perspectives. These kinds of responses usually

touch on several concepts identified by the researchers: being nationalistic or

patriotic, being politically empathetic towards all views, having independent

views, being outspoken, being non-fanatical with their views, and having morals-

based political beliefs. With these, the researchers found that there are two ways

to express views when the voter is politically engaged: firstly, by expressing

views with respect to the political spectrum and ideologies, and secondly, by

expressing views that are more general and are irrespective of any ideology under

the political spectrum.

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 Still under this subtheme are the socio-politically disenchanted views.

These are direct opposites of the previously mentioned types of views as they

come from respondents who do not express similar enthusiasms for politics. Some

responses that fall under this category include the following:

“I have better topics about bread and butter than our politics.” -R1

“Ang pulitika ay magulo, madumi, at puno ng misteryo.” –R13

The responses above as well as those from respondents who answered following

the similar line of thinking presents a different take on political views—having none.

Based on these, the researchers identified four different concepts that fall under having

disenchanted political views: being apathetic or apolitical, being extremely polarized,

being generally disdainful of politics and politicians (cynical), as well has being generally

confused with views that lack direction.

Subtheme 7: Impacts of Issues Towards Voters’ Outlook of the Elections

This subtheme explains how the impacts of the pandemic on the youth

voters‘ outlook of the elections manifest into yet another two-facetedness between

having positive and negative outlooks. These manifestations were identified when

the respondents were asked how dothey think these issues will affect their mindset

or overall outlook towards the 2022 National Elections. Firstly, in terms of the

positive outlooks:

“Ito ang aking magiging basehan sa pagpili o pagboto sa darating na

eleksyon” –R13

“Malaki yung pagbabagong mangyayari sa darating na elekyon kasi

symepre sa daming nangayare di maganda last year sa daming di magandang

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 nangyari dapat alam na nating mga botante yung ano kung sino ang dapat
nating iboto,” –R12

“because of the issues resurfaced during this pandemic, I

think…uhm…people or voters will now be more responsible in voting, then now
be wise on choosing” –R3

Common among these respondents whose are more positive is the idea that the

pandemic and pandemic-related issues will make them better voters. There is an

expectation coming from the respondents that since there were many pressing issues

during the pandemic, that this will translate to more voter engagement and participation

especially among their fellow youth. In line with this, the researchers identified three

concepts that fall under the positive changes to overall outlook for the Elections: one,

there is an increased eagerness towards the elections, two, there is a positive expectation

towards the outcome of the elections, and three there is a positive change on the outlook

toward voter responsibility. The latter is further elaborated into four different aspects,

firstly there is increased vigilance and keen voting standards, secondly there is increased

confidence in fellow voters as well as theirselves that they will be able to vote wisely,

and lastly, there is an expectation that everyone will strive to become more informed

voters.

On the other hand, in terms of more negative changes to the overall outlook

towards the elections, here are some instances where this is the case:

“The elderly shouldn't be elected.” –R1

“Yet if we don't make the right choices and if the elected officials are no
different with the previous ones then it's time for revolution” –R10

“Parang ano kasi isipin natin sa 2022 elections parang bagong mukha
lang ng pasismo na…uhm…parang maiiba lang yung taong mauupo pero baka
parehas pa rin yun gagawin nila, we don‟t know” –R7

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 These responses present a bleaker outlook for the outcome of the 2022

National Elections. They may also reflect tendencies to completely distrust the

elections in general, as according to them this will lead to no change anyway. This

may be a result of increased radicalization among youth voters especially those

with more progressive or left-leaning views. Studies back this phenomenon, with

one finding suggesting that youth radicalization is usually a result of bigger

factors such as income inequality and the aftermath of disasters such as

pandemics (Özerdem & Podder, 2011, p. 76).

Overall, the researchers were able to identify three negative impacts of the

pandemic and pandemic-related issues on voters‘ outlook of the elections: first, it

radicalizes or amplifies revolutionary views among youth, second, it fosters

distrust towards politicians‘ words and campaign promises, and thirdly it causes

growing unpopularity for some politicians among youth voters, especially those

who are older, more conservative, member of political families, has a police or

military background, and incumbents.

Subtheme 8: Aims and Objectives of Youth Voters

All things considered, with regards to their political views and

perspectives (as discussed in subtheme 6) as well as to their outlook for the

elections (as discussed in subtheme 7), the researchers also asked respondents to

come up with aims or ideas of what they want to achieve as a voter in the

upcoming elections. This eighth subtheme discusses just that and through data

analysis, the researchers were able to identify two different types of aims/goals

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coming from the respondents: voting related goals and election outcome related

goals.

Voting-related goals are aims or objectives made by the youth voters with

regards to how they will be voting or participating in the upcoming elections.

Whereas election outcome related goals are aims or objectives which focus on

what voters want to achieve for the country in terms of the politicians or the kind

and character of the government that they want to elect. Key responses that fall

under the voting-related goals include the following:

“So, as a youth voter, of course I think every youth voter aims for this, It
is to…uhm…encourage. First, encourage others to register for
voting…ah…because voting is important and it is our right.” –R3

“parang gusto ko for the upcoming elections, before the elections parang
gusto ko lang ma-educate din yung family ko and maeducate din yung…, parang
ma-convince mo muna yung small group mo na they have to vote right for the
upcoming elections then yung maximum mo na yung community mo na,” –R9

“I will encourage them ganun kasi yung issue kasing ganun hindi lang
ngayon „to eh, it will matter in the future. So it would be better if as much as
possible as earlier as we can…we can vote” –R11

Based from these responses and others following the same line of

thinking, the researchers identified five specific voting-related goal that was

common among the respondents: one, to be able to exercise their rights to vote,

two, to motivate and inspire other youth to vote, three, to be an informed voter,

four, to increase one‘s civic involvement, and five, to represent the youth in key

issues. On the other hand, key responses that fall under the election-related goals

include the following:

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 ―Ang gusto ko lamang pong mahangad sa darating na elksyon ay sana
naman po... ay maging maayos na para naman manumbalik ang mga ngiti sa
ating labi at bumalik na muli sa dati.” –R2

“Uhmm with those said considerations and generally hoping for us the
wiser and enlightened youth voters to be able elect and put into position the uhm
the deserving and capable chose in the government for the sake of the country”
–R5

“I aim for better Government which care and listen to their people.” –R6

Based from the responses above and other similar responses, the

researchers identified five common election outcome related goals among the

youth voters: one, they want to elect more young leaders, two, they want to

resolve the pandemic and other issues, three, they want to elect capable leaders

and help create good governance, four, they aim to hold the government and its

leaders accountable, and lastly, they want to advance the progressive political

agenda.

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Figure 4.2. How the Pandemic and Pandemic-Related Issues Shaped the
Perspectives of Gen-Z Voters Toward the 2022 National Elections
The figure above provides a graphical illustration of the second theme,

particularly on how the pandemic and pandemic-related issues shaped the

perspectives of Gen-Z voters toward the 2022 National Elections. From the top, it

branches off to two main subthemes, firstly as seen in the left side is the impact of

these issues towards youth voters‘ political views, and secondly as seen in the

right is the impact of issues towards youth voters‘ outlook of the elections. Onto

the former, this side of the figure outlines the impacts to the voters‘ political

views. This may be in the form either of mentality change among youth voters as

well as changes in their political perspectives, or political antipathy among voters

72
as well as disapproval and resentment. Under these follow many different positive

and negative impacts towards the youth voters‘ political views. Going deeper into

the figure, one can see that the different impacts of issues have been tied back to

the youth voter‘s political views. In this part of the figure, the researchers outlined

what exactly these political views might look like. According to the findings,

there are two types of political views, politically engaged views and disenchanted

views. Going over to the right side of the figure, we can see the impact of issues

towards the youth voter‘s outlook of the elections. This can take two forms,

positive change and negative change. Ultimately, these impacts to voter outlook

translate into aims and objectives among youth voters. These aims include both

voting-related goals and election outcome-related goals.

Theme 3: CHARACTERIZATION OF THE CURRENT OUTLOOK OF

GEN-Z VOTERS TOWARDS THE 2022 NATIONAL ELECTIONS

According to research from Wagner et al. (2012, pg. 374), the perspectives

and outlook of younger people towards an election or voting process greatly affect

the quality of their choices in such elections. This last theme discusses and

characterizes the current outlook of Gen-Z voters toward the 2022 National

Elections across four main aspects. The first aspect is with regards to the general

expectations of youth voters, the second being their outlook towards the political

landscape during the elections, third being their candidate voting preferences, and

last is their outlook on different platforms and policies.

Subtheme 9: Youth’s General Expectations Towards the Elections

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 The ninth subtheme provides an overview as to what the youth‘s general

expectations towards the elections actually look like. For this matter, the

respondents were asked what comes into their minds when they think of the

upcoming elections. They were also asked to describe any expectations or

personal feelings about it. The respondents gave mixed responses, both positive

and negative in nature. Here are some key responses according to those with

positive expectations:

“In the upcoming elections, I think people will be more rational in

voting, will be more responsible, will be more wise of their chocies” –R3

“I think this upcoming election is different from the past years because
many youth voters are aware to the current situation that will make things unique
and possible. We will attain what we all want.” –R6

“I am really grateful that the youth realized the importance of suffrage.

Because of this, I expect more from the youth to make a change because our
generation is more aware of the issues.” –R8

These positive general expectations for the elections revolved around just

four main concepts; optimism with regards to the election outcomes, optimism

with regards to voter responsibility, optimism with regards to election security,

and expectations that there will be empowered youth participation in the elections.

A study from Circle (2020) affirms this narrative of optimism among the youth as

their findings suggest that younger people are far more likely to believe that they

can lead change especially during elections.

However, there are always respondents who provide contrasting opinions.

For some, their expectations were more negative and pessimistic towards the

elections. Here are some instances as seen in their responses:

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 “Eleksyon na naman kampanyahan dito kampanyahan doon darating
ang mga ibat ibang lider na magsasabe ng mga sadsad na linya... Marahil ang
iba sa atin ay hirap na magtiwala sapagkat ilang dekada na ang lumipas at
dumating hinde pa din naiiahon ang ating bansa sa pagkakalugmok nito sa
kahirapan.” –R2

“Uhm, to be honest, natatakot ako sa 2022 elections eh. nakakatakot

lang kasi feeling ko talaga dumadami na yong …uhm…yjng nilalagay ni Duterte
sa…uhm…sa posisyon. So kung madaming naniniwala sa kay Duterte dun sa
Malacanang ano pa kaya yung kaya nilang gawin sa election.” –R9

“To be honest, I‟m quite scared with the upcoming

elections…uhm…because ano eh like yung sa side nung president natin ngayon
na sobrang strong nung ano niya up to the point na di ko alam kung mananalo
ba yung mga gusto natin.” –R11

“Kung ako yung tatanungin gustong gusto ko na I-oust si Duterte. If only

I could have the power. So ayun parang di na ako makapaghintay sa 2022” –R11

As seen in their responses and their emotions above, the respondents with

negative expectations usually have a more profound and dramatic response compared to

those with positive outlooks. Their sentiments revolve around having to put up with

empty promises from politicians, political cynicism, fear and pessimism towards election

security, total loss of confidence in the elections, fear against threats to democracy, and

pessimism towards the outcome of the elections. Similarly as with the previous

responses, these emotions and responses are backed by scientific data. In a study

conducted by NBC News (2020), it directly opposes the findings from Circle (2020) by

claiming that the youth are instead more likely to be pessimistic about the future

especially in terms of socio-political developments and elections.

Whichever of these scenarios eventually stands to be true, it is clear nonetheless

that this two-facetedness in youth‘s outlook towards the elections reflects the volatility

and complexity of our political landscape in the Philippines. The next subtheme dives

deeper into youth‘s outlook as it discusses the youth‘s perspective of the political

landscape in 2022.

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Subtheme 10: The Youth’s Perceived Changes to the Political Landscape due

to Pandemic-Related Issues

Tim (2014) defines the ―political landscape‖ as referring to the current

state of things (short term) as well as how they are looking in the future (long

term) especially in the context of socio-politics. This tenth subtheme discusses

exactly that: how Gen-Z voters perceive such a landscape in both the short term

and the long term. The researchers identified these from the respondents by

asking them to elaborate in what way do they think will these pandemic-related

issues impact the future political landscape of the country in light of the 2022

National Elections. Here was some key responses that discussed more short-term

impacts and expectations from respondents:

“Sobra po itong makakaapekto tulad na lang ng pangangampanyahan

limitayo lamang po ang taong pwedeng andun sa place na kung nasaan ang
nangangampanya.” –R2

“Siguro ano …siguro kung ano…ano lang ha opinion… siguro

magkakaroon ng Oust Duterte movement ganyan, yung magkaroon ng
revolutionary…revolution sa EDSA ganun” –R9

“Ito ay may malaking epekto sa kinahaharap na political situation dahil

ito ay maaring maging basehan ng mga akyson na ginawa upang mapaghandaan
ang isang krisis o pandemya” –R13

From those who outlined short-term expectations the researchers were

able to identify recurring concepts in their responses: the youth is expecting that

the COVID-19 pandemic will change and significantly impact how we conduct

elections, it will also impact the platforms and policies raised by candidates and

parties by emphasizing more on those that address the pandemic, the youth also

expects mindset change among Filipinos, and to an extreme degree, respondents

76
are even expecting increased and heightened insurgency as one of the main short-

term changes to the political landscape.

Moving forward, there were also expectations coming from youth voters

which expressed more long-term concerns or possible impacts. Here are some of

the key responses for instance:

“The issues have a lasting effect on the Filipinos especially now that we
have massive problems caused by the pandemic” –R8

“[The political landscape] would continue to divide us” –R1

“Malaki yung magiging epekto nung ano neto kasi ano eh ayaw naman
nating maulit yung nangyari ngayon diba” -R12

“These issues impact the future political landscape in the country and
the outcomes of the 2022 National Elections in a way that many Filipino, just like
me, I think, will be more suspicious and doubtful to a certain candidate whereas
they will be more wise than ever before.” –R6

Based from the responses above, the researchers were able to identify

seven main lines of thought coming from respondents which falls under perceived

long-term changes to the political landscape: the youth voters believe that there

will be systematic change, they think that the political landscape of the future will

be able to foster good governance, they also think that the political landscape will

be more cynical and polarized than ever before, but lastly they also expect the

future political landscape to be more transparent and effective in holding

politicians accountable.

Subtheme 11: Trend of Candidate Voting Preferences Among Youth Voters

The second to the last subtheme discusses the trend of voting preferences

among youth voters. Voting preferences refers to the general criteria for

77
determining the favorability of candidates towards specific voters (Kamada &

Kojima, 2014), in this case they are the Gen-Z voters. For this purpose, the

respondents were asked what characteristics they would like to see in an elected

public servant such as the President. The responses were divided in the data

analysis into three broad categories; a politician/candidate‘s stance on issues,

electability, and performance. Under electability, the researchers further

subdivided the responses into those that refer to a politician‘s personality traits

and those that refer to their experience/background. Among their responses are

the following:

“I would like to see a public servant who upholds the constitution that no
one is above the law, who is accountable, transparent, and competent enough to
serve the people.“ –R8

“I hope the candidates, not just the leader but the candidates…uhm…all
have political backgrounds also educational background that…uhm…that are
related to politics” –R3

“Ano makatarungan tapos ano may paninindigan at may prinsipyo.” –

R12

“Nagmula o naranasan ang hirap ng buhay. May malasakit sa kapwa at

mapagmahal. May sapat na karanasan sa politika at magandang record ng
pamamahala.” –R13

Based from these responses, the researchers were able to identify the

youth voters‘ candidate voting preferences. In terms of personality traits, Gen-

Zers are more likely to vote if they are selfless, charismatic, relatable, intellectual,

transparent, patriotic, and works well under pressure. In terms of background or

experience, they are more likely to support politicians and candidates who are

younger, has experience in politics or governance, is not a member of a political

dynasty, from the working/middle class, has a public-health educational

background, or has a politics-related educational background and has a good track

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record. In terms of performance, youth voters like politicians and candidates that

are capable of decisive leadership, listens to the science, and is serious or

determined about his service. Lastly, in terms of their stances on issues, young

voters prefer candidates/politicians who are more liberal and progressive in their

views, principled, lawful, non-traditional/non-conservative, committed to human

rights, and is firm on their stances.

Subtheme 12: Supported Platforms and Policies by Youth Voters in the 2022

National Elections

The last but not the least important subtheme of this research deals with

the youth‘s actual perceptions of the different policies and platforms in the 2022

National Elections. Most of these supported platforms fall under different aspects

of society such as Economy, Health, Education, Law and Governance, as well as

Environment and Society. Here are some of the responses of the youth voters

when asked what platforms or policies they would like to see proposed come this

2022:

“I would like to see platforms on economic growth, on how will they

revive lose of jobs and the negative GDP.” –R8

“So dun talaga ako eh, ever since naging advocate ako, I‟m for the
education. The free, quality and accessible education for all” –R9

“Ang mga platoporma po na gusti kong maihain nila ay ang pagtuunan

nila ang pansin sa mga taong mahihirap na dapat ay kapantay na din sila ng
mga mayayaman para walang naiiwan” –R2

Based from these and other responses coming from the youth voters, the

researchers were able to identify their policy and platform preferences. In terms of

those under the Economy, youth voters support assistance for farmers, platforms

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addressing wealth inequality, platforms addressing inflation, job growth and

employment. They also want better economic opportunities, increasing the

minimum wage, and raising the price of rice in the market. In terms of Health,

youth voters support more funding for the health sector, platforms addressing the

public health crisis due to COVID-19, Universal Healthcare, and mental health. In

terms of Education, they support reforms on the education system, more funding

for schools, and the return to face-to-face classes. Moreover, in terms of Law and

Governance, youth voters were found to support the repeal of Anti-Terror Law,

the passing of the SOGIE Equality Bill, and they support the movement against

Charter Change. They also want policies addressing red tape and bureaucracy,

corruption, in addition to defunding the police. In terms of Society, they want

platforms increasing and protecting civil and human rights, mental health

platforms, and reforms on the justice system. Lastly, in terms of the Environment

they support anti-illegal mining and platforms that address Climate Change.

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Figure 4.3. Characterization of the Current Outlook of Gen-Z Voters Towards the
2022 National Elections
The figure above provides a graphical illustration of the third theme,

particularly on the characterization of the current outlook of Gen-Z voters towards

the 2022 National Elections. From the center, it branches off to four different

subthemes; the youth‘s general expectations toward the 2022 National Elections,

the youth‘s perceived changes to the political landscape due to pandemic-related

issues, the trends of candidate voting preferences among youth voters, and the

supported platforms and policies by youth voters in the 2022 National Elections.

Onto the first subtheme on the bottom of the figure, it shows that there are two

general categories of youth‘s expectations, with some being positive and some

being negative. The positive expectations include optimism with regards to

81
election outcomes, optimism with regards to voter responsibility, optimism with

regards to election security, and expectations that there will be empowered youth

participation in the elections. For the negative expectations on the other hand, it

includes expectations for a polarized political landscape, expectations of empty

promises from politicians, political cynicism, fear and pessimism towards election

security, total loss of confidence in the elections, fear against threats to

democracy, and pessimism towards election outcomes. Moving on to the right

side of the figure, it shows the youth‘s perceived changes to the political

landscape. Under these are two types of perceived changes, short-term changes

and long-term changes. Short-term changes perceived by the youth include the

widespread mindset change among Filipinos, changes to elections and campaign

norms due to the coronavirus, emphasis on platforms addressing the COVID-19

pandemic, and heightened insurgency. Long-term changes include increased

accountability for politicians, systematic change, good governance, increased

transparency, increased support for progressive ideals, as well as a divided,

polarized, and cynical political landscape. Onto the top part of the figure, it shows

the trend of candidate voting preferences among youth voters across three

standards, first is in terms of electability (personality and background), second is

in terms of performance, and third is in terms of stance on issues. Whereas the left

part of the figure shows the last subtheme, particularly the supported platforms

and policies of youth voters in the upcoming elections. These policies and

platforms generally fall under six categories; Economy, Health, Education, Law

and Governance, Society, and Environment.

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Ground Theory: MODIFIED THEORY OF PLANNED BEHAVIOR ON

THE ELECTORAL PARTICIPATION OF YOUNGER GENERATION-Z

VOTERS

The theory of planned behavior is a theory that links beliefs to behavior. It

is based on the studies first proposed by Ajzen (1991) and has been widely

adopted in the field of psychology ever since. The theory states that there are

three core components, namely; attitude or beliefs, subjective norms or

motivation, and perceived behavioral control or power, which together shape an

individual‘s behavioral intentions. Based on the findings of the data analysis for

this research paper, the researchers found that the three themes may be associated

into the theory of planned behavior. This theoretical analysis thereby modifies the

existing theory to better resolve the research problems. With this, the researchers

formed the modified theory of planned behavior on the electoral participation of

younger Generation-Z voters.

Figure 4.4. Reverse tree diagram illustrating the theory of reasoned action or
planned behavior (Lumen Candela, n.d.)

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 According to foundational research from Ajzen (1991), the first key

variable that determines behavior is the attitudes or behavioral beliefs of a person.

Behavioral beliefs is defined as the subjective evaluation of a person that such a

behavior will produce a certain outcome. It may be a positive evaluation, which

refers to beliefs regarding the effectiveness of the behavior in reducing negative

outcomes. By contrast, it can also be a negative evaluation, which refers to beliefs

regarding the adverse consequences that can result from the enactment of such a

behavior. In terms of voting, the researchers identified that the third theme which

discusses the voters‘ general outlook of the elections fits into the definition of

behavioral beliefs. Thus it can be stated that one of the contributing variables to a

youth voter‘s voting behavior is their expectations towards the election and the

outcome of the election in general. And as previously analyzed, these outlooks of

the election may also be positive and negative in nature.

The second key variable in the theory of planned behavior is the subjective

norms or motivation. This variable refers to an individual‘s perceptions of social

pressures on whether they should or should not perform such behavior. In relation

to the research problem, the researchers identified that the first theme which

discusses the voters‘ perceptions of issues during the pandemic as well as their

socio-political engagement fits under this variable in the theory. This is because in

this particular theme of responses, youth voters were assessing their socio-

political engagement or lack thereof. Therefore, it could be said that to influence

voting behavior, one must take into account whether the youth voter is actually

motivated and socio-politically engaged or whether they are demotivated and

84
socio-politically disenchanted. The first theme shows the many scenarios of this

among the respondents, with some showing general increase in their engagement

whereas others showed signs of cynicism and disenchantment on socio-political

issues.

Last but not the least is the variable of the theory of planned behavior that

includes the individual‘s perceived control or power. Still according to the same

foundational research by Ajzen (1991), perceived control refers to a person‘s

expectation or confidence that he or she can accomplish a certain goal. This is

closely connected to the Self-Efficacy Theory (SET) first proposed by Bandura

(1977). For the purposes of this study, the researchers identified that the second

theme fits into this definition of the said variable. The second theme discusses

how the pandemic and pandemic-related issues shaped the perspectives of Gen-Z

voters. Further on, it touched on subthemes of their aims and goals for the

elections, as well as whether they have positive or negative political views. This

relates to the variable of perceived power because it was able to characterize

whether Gen-Z voters believe in themselves enough to cause change. Again, two-

facetedness of responses exist as some respondents have a more positive

perception of self-efficacy whereas others have a negative perception.

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Figure 4.5. Reverse tree diagram illustrating the grounded theory of this research
paper namely the Modified Theory of Planned Behavior on The Electoral
Participation of Younger Generation-Z Voters
All things considered, the grounded theory for this research paper is clear:

the voting behavior of younger Generation-Z voters will be determined by three

key variables; firstly, their expectations towards the election and the outcome of

the election in general; secondly, whether they are motivated and socio-politically

engaged or not; and lastly, whether Gen-Z voters believe in themselves enough to

cause change.

86
 Chapter V

Summary, Conclusion, and Recommendations

Summary

The entry of Generation Z voters into our elections is still relatively new in the

political setting. As such, the consequences all these may have on the elections

are not yet fully understood. For this reason, the researchers have conducted a

study on the perspectives of younger Gen-Z voters on the elections. The study

generally aims to uncover the multifaceted perspectives of eligible Gen-Z voters

on the 2022 Philippine National Elections within the context of issues arising

during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study was conducted with 13 elligible youth

voters aged 16 to 21 from Lucena City, Quezon Province and used the

Contstructivist Grounded Theory (CGT) method. The researchers used theoretical

and purposive sampling carried out across four cycles in selecting the respondents

of the study. The researchers used interview questionnaires in order to gather data

from the respondents and resolve the research problems. The researchers were

able to extract three themes and one grounded theory: Theme 1: How Gen-Z

Voters Perceive The Issues During The Covid-19 Pandemic; Theme 2: How The

Pandemic And Pandemic-Related Issues Shaped The Perspectives Of Gen-Z

Voters Toward The 2022 National Elections; Theme 3: Characterization Of The

Current Outlook Of Gen-Z Voters Towards The 2022 National Elections; and the

grounded theory of this research paper: Modified Theory Of Planned Behavior On

The Electoral Participation Of Younger Generation-Z Voters.

87
Findings

Theme 1: How The Gen-Z Voters Perceive The Issues During The

COVID-19 Pandemic shows that there are two different ways on looking at how

Gen-Zers experience the pandemic; there are positive aspects and negative

aspects. Under negative aspects, the researchers found that individuals experience

frustration in terms of their social interactions, emotional frustration in the form

of depression and loneliness, culture and lifestyle shock due to the major

adjustments in way of life, inability to keep up with rapid digitalization of society,

as well as socio-political disenfranchisement and cynicism on issues. On the other

hand, positive aspects of the pandemic include sanguine and optimistic attitudes

in light of difficult situations, developing a sense of resilience, self-improvement

and exploration of new opportunities, as well as increased inclinations toward

being socio-politically engaged. It also shows how socio-political engagement can

increase or decrease depending on factors identified from the data. These factors

include the impact of technology and digitalization, personal factors, as well as

external factors. Moreover, under increasing socio-political engagement comes

many implications for Gen-Z voters; these include: sense of responsibility

towards others, development of socio-political engagement as a personal habit,

and having an increased socio-political awareness on issues. Under this theme, it

also shows that socio-political awareness on issues translates to worry and

concern over both domestic and general issues.

Theme 2: How The Pandemic And Pandemic-Related Issues Shaped The

Perspectives Of Gen-Z Voters Toward The 2022 National Elections shows two

88
main things: first, the impact of these issues towards youth voters‘ political views,

and secondly is the impact of issues towards youth voters‘ outlook of the

elections. Onto the former, particularly the impacts to the voters‘ political views,

it shows that this may be in the form either of mentality change among youth

voters as well as changes in their political perspectives, or political antipathy

among voters as well as disapproval and resentment. Under these concepts follow

many different positive and negative impacts towards the youth voters‘ political

views. The theme also shows the youth voter‘s political views. The researchers

outlined what exactly these political views might look like. According to the

findings, there are two types of political views, politically engaged views and

disenchanted views. Under this theme it also shows the impact of issues towards

the youth voter‘s outlook of the elections. This can take two forms, positive

change and negative change. Ultimately, these impacts to voter outlook translate

into aims and objectives among youth voters. These aims include both voting-

related goals and election outcome-related goals.

Theme 3: The Characterization Of The Current Outlook Of Gen-Z Voters

Towards The 2022 National Elections shows four different subthemes; the

youth‘s general expectations toward the 2022 National Elections, the youth‘s

perceived changes to the political landscape due to pandemic-related issues, the

trends of candidate voting preferences among youth voters, and the supported

platforms and policies by youth voters in the 2022 National Elections. Onto the

first subtheme, it shows that there are two general categories of youth‘s

expectations, with some being positive and some being negative. The positive

89
expectations include optimism with regards to election outcomes, optimism with

regards to voter responsibility, optimism with regards to election security, and

expectations that there will be empowered youth participation in the elections. For

the negative expectations on the other hand, it includes expectations for a

polarized political landscape, expectations of empty promises from politicians,

political cynicism, fear and pessimism towards election security, total loss of

confidence in the elections, fear against threats to democracy, and pessimism

towards election outcomes. Moving on, this theme also shows the youth‘s

perceived changes to the political landscape. Under these are two types of

perceived changes, short-term changes and long-term changes. Short-term

changes perceived by the youth include the widespread mindset change among

Filipinos, changes to elections and campaign norms due to the coronavirus,

emphasis on platforms addressing the COVID-19 pandemic, and heightened

insurgency. Long-term changes include increased accountability for politicians,

systematic change, good governance, increased transparency, increased support

for progressive ideals, as well as a divided, polarized, and cynical political

landscape. Onto the trends of candidate voting preferences among youth voters, it

was found to be across three standards, first is in terms of electability (personality

and background), second is in terms of performance, and third is in terms of

stance on issues. The theme also shows the last subtheme, particularly the

supported platforms and policies of youth voters in the upcoming elections. These

policies and platforms generally fall under six categories; Economy, Health,

Education, Law and Governance, Society, and Environment.

90
 The grounded theory for this research paper: The Modified Theory Of

Planned Behavior On The Electoral Participation Of Younger Generation-Z

Voters is clear: the voting behavior of younger Generation-Z voters will be

determined by three key variables; firstly, their expectations towards the election

and the outcome of the election in general; secondly, whether they are motivated

and socio-politically engaged or not; and lastly, whether Gen-Z voters believe in

themselves enough to cause change.

Conclusions

1. Most Gen-Z youth voters are highly worried and concerned of national

issues. Not only do they engage with and are aware of these issues, they

are also concerned to some degree. Key issues that the Gen-Zers perceive

to be issues with national significance include those mainly about the

COVID-19 pandemic, the justice system, the education system, social

issues, and economic issues. Whereas those issues of personal concern to

many Gen-Z voters more often than not relates to their selves and their

free expression such as issues relating to sexuality and activism.

2. There are two facets to the impact of the issues towards Gen-Z‘s

perspectives. It can either affect them positively or negatively. Positive

impacts include making them more socio-politically aware and engaged as

well as having more positive outlook for the elections. This can be

expressed through optimism and increased eagerness and confidence

towards the elections. Whereas negative impacts include making them

socio-politically disenchanted and having more negative outlook for the

91
 elections. This includes being apathetic and apolitical, cynical, and

resentful towards politics in general.

3. The outlook of respondents towards the 2022 National Elections are more

negative and pessimistic than they are positive. Gen-Z voters have raised

fear and pessimism towards the outcome of the elections. Moreover, in

terms of their preferred characteristic traits in a leader, Gen-Z voters prefer

younger more progressive individuals and dislike traditional and

conservative politicians. Lastly, in terms of supported policies and

platforms, Gen-Z voters are similarly supportive of progressive and liberal

policies across different aspects such as economy, health, education, law

and governance, society, and environment.

Recommendations

Based on the findings and conclusions, the following are hereby recommended by

the researchers:

1. While theoretical data saturation was already achieved in this research

paper given the scope, further research may explore the option of studying

larger sampling sizes to confirm or extend the findings of this research

paper.

2. Voter education and information especially during election periods may be

implemented in the school curriculum to encourage quality voter turnout.

92
3. Government units and institutions may assist younger, first-time voters in

making voting plans for themselves through instructional materials and

help desks.

4. For politicians and campaign staff, it is recommended that campaign

activities utilize Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) in

advancing their objectives to better cater the needs of Gen-Z voters who

are also digital natives.

5. Future researches may also explore and assess the impacts of social media

and online polarization on voters.

93
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APPENDIX A

Cover Letter

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 APPENDIX B

Parental or Guardian Consent Form (Page 1 of 1)

118
 APPENDIX B

Parental or Guardian Consent Form (Page 2 of 2)

119
 APPENDIX C

Questionnaire (Page 1 of 3)

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 APPENDIX C

Questionnaire (Page 2 of 3)

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 APPENDIX C

Questionnaire (Page 3 of 3)

122

First Cycle of Data Analysis (Initial Coding I)
*Respondent R1 and Respondent R2 are both 16-year olds.
Questions
Q1. Describe your experiences so far
during this pandemic.
Q2. How engaged are you to current
events now compared to pre-pandemic
times? Elaborate your answer.
APPENDIX D
Coding
Responses
R1: Good, even if there are
depressing moments but luckily that
our culture kicks in and showed me
the optimistic side of life and
allowing me to get some opportunities
in these trying times.
R2: Malungkot kase may mga bagay
na hinde ko na pwedeng gawen tulad
ng nakasanayan ko noon. Masaya po
kase kahit papaano nagkaroon ng
closure sa pamilya.
R1: More than ever actually since I
can type more than talking.
R2: Araw araw po bukod po sa naka
antenna lang kame iisang channel
lang po yung nasasagap sa amin tas
mahilig po kase sa balita yung
magulang ko kaya ayun nakikinuod
123
Memoing Analysis
The respondent is generally thankful as
they try to find a silver lining in their
pandemic experiences so far.
- sadness to the limits caused by
COVID
-became an opportunity to closure and
better communication
In his statement ―I can type more than
talking‖ R1 wants to show that it feels
easier for him now to engage in issues
due to the virtual nature of the new
normal.
- very engaged due to influence of
family members to the habit of
watching news
Initial Coding I
(Codes)
Sanguine Attitudes In Light of
Difficult Situations
Resilience
Exploration and Making use of
Available Opportunities
Undergoing Culture Shock
Sanguine Attitudes In Light of
Difficult Situations
Exploration and Making use of
Available Opportunities
Increased Socio-political Engagement
Convenience of engagement due to
digitalization
Socio-political Engagement as a habit
Presence of Technological Challenges
Engagement due to Influence from
Peers and Family
 na lang po ako.

Q3. Off the top of your head, what
different pandemic-related issues* do
you recall encountering during the
year 2020? It can be old news, current
events, or any other timely issues you
can remember the most.
R1: Probably about being too afraid
or shy to communicate with others but
luckily I'm getting a hand with it.
R2: Lockdown po noong lockdown
po ay dun ko po nakita o natuklasan
yung ganung sitwasyon na
napakahirap tulad na lamang na
limitado ang paglabas ng tao at
linguhan ang pamamalengke. Tas
nung nag MGCQ po tayo na po yung
nangunguna o tayo na po yung may
pinakamataas na kaso ng Covid-19.
R1 is describing a personal issue
somewhere on the lines of social
isolation during pandemic times.
-lockdown issues
+limited access of people outside home
+high COVID cases (slow gov‘t action)
Social Isolation and Quarantine-related
Personal Issues
Issues relating to Restrictions on
Movement and Activity
Public Health Issues caused by the
COVID-19 Pandemic

Q4. As a Gen-Z voter during the
COVID-19 Pandemic, which of the
issues you just mentioned do you think
holds the most significance for you
personally and why?
R1: Being shy since we live in a piss
pit of a country that barely allows the
idea of liberation and I am too shy to
tell my ideas since I will receive more
shouting than listening from others.
It seems that R1 fears criticism from
other people that may result from
expressing his political
beliefs/sentiments.
Social Isolation and Quarantine-related
Personal Issues
Issues on the Activist Crackdown and
Red-tagging Controversy

R2: Yung naglockdown po kase nga

po batay po dun sa mga napapanuod
ko sa television noong lockdown
halos ang inadaing ng mahihirap na
pamilya ay pagkain kunga saan po
sila hahanap ng pambiling pagkain
pangtutus sa kanilang mga anak kung
wala po silang trabaho dahil nga po
lockdown.
-lockdown issues
+limited access and not having the
ability to buy necessitites like food Issues on Labor and Unemployment
(happens on the lower class of society)
+losing of jobs (cause of limited
access)

Q5. As a Gen-Z voter during the
COVID-19 Pandemic, which of the
issues you just mentioned do you think
holds the most significance for the
country in general and why?
R1: Toxicity and the boomer mindset. The respondent resents generational Issues on Polarization and Political
Let's be real, toxicity is normal but it's differences coming from ―boomers‖ or Differences
actually no. We can cuss but we must those born from 1946-1964; these
learn on how to stop cussing, game or people tend to be more culturally
not. The boomer mindset as well, conservative than the younger
learn to respect to kids that are having generations.
their own time, allowing people to
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 wear whatever the fuck they want and
being yourself.

R2: Ang pinakamahalaga po para sa

Q6. How would you describe your
political views/perspectives?
bansa ay ang pagpapababa ng kaso ng
covid-19 para muling nang
manumbalik ang totoong ngiti sa ating
mga labi, ang mga nakasanayan noon.
R1: I have better topics about bread
and butter than our politics.
Gov‘t action really matters to the health
issue of the country.
Public Health Issues caused by the
+Lowering COVID cases COVID-19 Pandemic
R1 is generally apathetic towards Apolitical/Apathetic
political issues and would prefer to talk
about something else given the chance.

The respondent is confused on which Generally Confused or Lacks

Q7. Looking back, how did these
issues change your political
perspectives, especially on current
government policies and incumbents?
R2: Ang atin pong pulitika ay mga Direction
padalos dalos kung madesisyon socio-political issues deserve the most
sapagkat di po natin alam kung ano attention at any given moment.
ang mas uunahing pagtuunan ng
pansin tulad na lamang po nung
manila bay imbis na yung perang
inilaan dun sa buhangin na nilagay
nila ay itunabi hinde yung ilalaan nila
dun para pagandahin kung ang
mangyayare lang naman ay
mangingitim ang buhngin syng lang
din po diba tsaka hinde namn na po
mahalaga yun eh mas marame pa
pong mahahalang bagag kesa dun.
Nagkakapandemic na po uunahin pa
yung pagsasaayos ng manila bay mas
kailangan po ng tao yung pera hinde
ng manila bay.
R1: The older the person in power, The respondent may be opinionating at Resentment towards People with
the more stupid they are. this point that older people tend to Contrasting Political Views
make more politically irrational
decisions. R1 has shown similar Resentment towards the
resentment towards older generations in Government and its Leaders
his other responses.
R2: Nabago po ito silamu nung
nagkapandemic ang dame dame pong
125

Q8. Looking forward, in what ways do
you think will these issues affect your
mindset or overall outlook about the
2022 National Elections? Why?
Q9. In light of your most important
issues and the upcoming elections,
what do you aim to achieve as a youth
voter in this country?
pwedeng pagtuunan ng pansin eh
bakit po binabaling nila yung kanilang
atensyon sa mga walang kwentang
bagay na hinde naman makakatulong
sa pagunlad ng pilipinas nagaaksaya
lamang po sila ng pnahon at pera sa
ganung bagay o sitwasyon na dapat
napapapunta sa may mga kwentang
bagay.
R1: The elderly shouldn't be elected.
R2: Maaapektukhan ng isyung ito ang
aking pananaw sa darating na elksyon
sapagkat darating na naman ang mga
bagong lider na magsasabi o
magbibitaw ng salita na sila ang daan
tungonsa pagbabago ng pilinas na
kahit kailan hinde nabago o umusad
ang ating bansa.
R1: A better and younger government
that knows what the people's wants.
R2: Ang gusto ko lamang pong
mahangad sa darating na elksyon ay
sana naman po maging aral na sa atin
ang pandemyang nangyare sa ating
bansa na sana naman yung darating o
tatakbong mga halal ay maging
maayos na para naman manumbalik
ang mga ngiti sa ating labi at bumalik
na muli sa dati.
126
Political perspectives is changed due to
irrelevancy and incompetency of
government that is not contributing to
the betterment of the country.
Based on his general attitude towards Voter Disaffection Towards Older and
older generations, the respondent Traditional Politicians
reaffirms here his views and believes
that older generation politicians should
not be elected into office.
Distrust Towards Politicians‘ Words
and Promises
Issues are affected by issues wherein
the respondent will not be persuaded by
candidates on 2022 that has no
intention for the real betterment of the
country.
R1 believes that by participating in this
elections, he is doing something to
represent the youth‘s issues. He also Election of More Youth Leaders
hopes for a ―younger‖ government.
Exercise of Voting Rights
Return to Normalcy/Resolving the
- be open to the effects and lessons Pandemic‘s Crises
brought by the pandemic.
- aiming for the better and deserving
candidates in 2022
Q10. In general, what comes into your
mind when you think of the upcoming
elections? Describe your expectations
or personal feelings about it, if any.
Q11. In what way do you think will
these issues impact the future political
landscape in this country and the
outcomes of the 2022 National
Elections?
R1: More like a piss pit of Pinoy
debating if Marcos was wrong or
right, the usual Friday's.
R2: Eleksyon na naman kampanyahan
dito kampanyahan doon darating ang
mga ibat ibang lider na magsasabe ng
mga sadsad na linya tulad na lamang
ng "ako ang daan para sa pagbabago
ng ating bansa" at kung ano ano pa
maharalin napaka hirap ng
paniwalaan ang mga yan dahil
andame ng nagsabe sa sobrang
dameng nagsabe hinde na natin alam
kung tunay pa ba o hinde. May mga
tumatakbo na nangangampaya todo
kampanya pero sa huli hinde naman
talaga pagbabago ang pakay niya
marahil ang iba sa atin ay hirap na
magtiwala sapagkat ilang dekada na
ang lumipas at dumating hinde pa din
naiiahon ang ating bansa sa
pagkakalugmok nito sa kahirapan.
R1: This would continue to divide us
all thanks to the 1980s and the current
government.
R2: Sobra po itong makakaapekto
tulad na lang ng pangangampanyahan
127
R1 is expecting more polarization and
political fighting especially with
regards to the Marcos presidency. He Polarized Political Landscape
also perceives this as if it‘s something
that happens very often with his
statement ―the usual Fridays‖
Empty Promises from Politicians
- persuasive lines of candidates that
cannot be trusted anymore without the
determination of really running for the
country, for the people.
- the respondent wants to see a
candidate that sa the determination and
realness that is for the people
Political Cynicism
The respondent personally believes that Causes Further Division and
the issue of division and polarization Polarization
currently plaguing political discourse in
this country is a negative impact in the
upcoming elections.
Changes to Elections and Campaign
 limitayo lamang po ang taong - it can affect the ways of elections. Norms due to the Coronavirus
pwedeng andun sa place na kung
nasaan ang nangangampanya.

Q12. Taking into account the issues
that are important to you, what
characteristics would you now like to
see in an elected public servant such as
the President?
a. in terms of their personality traits
b. in terms of their experience or
background
c. in terms of their stance on issues
R1: Competitive, transparent, and
open to changes.
R2: a.) Ang gusto ko pong makitang
katangian ng mga halal ay yung
kayang patunayan na hinde sila
kagaya ng mga taong nangampanya
noon na hinde naman pagbabago ang
totoong pakay para sa ating bansa
gusto ko po makita na sa darating na
eksyon ngayon ay gusto ko ang mga
halal ay totoo na seryoso sa kanilang
mga sinasabe at gagawen ang lahat
umangat ang ating bansa sa
kahirapan. Batay po sa personalidad
ay gusto ko po yung medyo bata bata
pa at matalino magisip.
R1 provides a straightforward response Progressive
when asked what traits he is looking for
in a candidate. His description ―open to Politicians with the Highest Chance of
changes‖ tends to describe Winning
liberal/progressive politicians more
than conservatives. Transparent
Non-traditional Politician
A. Personality: Serious or Determined
- not comparable to the candidates with Younger
no intention for the coutry Intellectual
- has the real intention and Experienced
determination of leading the Filipinos.

b.) Sa experience/ background po ay

B. Exp/Bg:
gusyo ko po yung meron ng
experience sa pagiging isang lider - has experience in leading
dahil hinde po biro yung pinapasok
nila.

c.) t kailangan din po ay tugma ang C. Stance

kanilang sarili sa posisyon na gusto
nilang upuan. - takes serious decisions in terms of
Hinde po biro ang isang pagiging their position
lider at pagupo sa senado o
pamahalaan sapagkat hinde po isang
laruan ang inyong hahawakan o
iingatan kundi isa po itong bansa at
mga tao po ang nakatira sa bansang
ito kaya po kung maari alisin na po
natin ang biruan sapagkat hinde na po
oras ng biruan ngayon sana po
128

Q13. Again taking into account the
issues that are important to you, what
platforms or policies would you like to
see proposed on the table come this
2022? Why?
maging aral na po sa ating lahat ang
pandemya na nangyari sa ating bayan
nawa po ang mga tatakbong lider
ngayon ay mapapagkakatiwalaan na
at totong kayang iaangat ang bansa sa
kahirapan.
R1: Help the farmers, stop The With profanity, the respondent Farmer Assistance
government from being a semi emphasizes the need for the state to
communist state by taking away ideas allow people to enjoy greater civil and Platforms Ensuring Greater Civil
that the public can do. Let the people political liberties in the future. Liberties
do whatever the fuck they want.
R2: Ang mga platoporma po na gusti
kong maihain nila ay ang pagtuunan - equality in the society of Filipinos
nila ang pansin sa mga taong - improvement of educational system Platforms Addressing Wealth
mahihirap na dapat ay kapantay na Inequality
din sila ng mga mayayaman para - economy based platforms
walang naiiwan, pagsasaayos po ng
ating ating educational system o - fair and accessible governmental
pagaalis po ng mga currupt sa DepEd processes like getting license Reform on the Educational System
sapagkat ang mga pera na dapat sa
mga bata napapapunta ay napupunta
lamang sa kanila tulad na lamang ng
pagbili ng kotse para sa mga guro
bilang service hinde po tama na ibili
nila ng kotse yung pera na dapat ay
nakalaan para sa mga bata.
Pagsasaayos po ng ating presyo ng
mga paninda sa palengke tulad ng Platforms Addressing Inflation
baboy, manok at isda hinde lamang po
sa manila kundi sa buong pilipinas po.
Gusto ko rin po ipabago ang Platforms Addressing Red Tape and
sistemang ginawa nila para sa mga Bureaucracy
taong gustong kumuha ng lisensya
sapagkat hinde po lahat kaya ang
bagong sistema na ipinatutupad nila
ngayon.
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Second Cycle of Data Analysis (Initial Coding II)
*Respondent R3, R4, R5, R6 and R7 are all 17-year olds.

Questions Responses Memoing Analysis Concepts

Constant Comparison
Codes from last Codes from this
cycle/s cycle

Q1. Describe your R3: So far, the pandemic...ah, it is very Very hard Sanguine Attitudes Societal Optimism and
experiences so far hard especially in terms of education, In Light of Difficult Frustration Resilience
during this pandemic. and of course, in terms of health, and +health
Situations
socialization…uhm, ano pa and of General affliction
course, a lot of issues resurfaced during +edu
Resilience Societal situational adjustment
the pandemic. So, it‘s very hard, tough +social
times. Frustration
Exploration and Socio-political
+issues arise Making use of Engagement
R4: Uhm my experiences during this
pandemic sometimes hard because Available
Tough times Undergoing Exploration and self-
COVID 19 leave everything so at first Opportunities
Culture Shock improvement
it‘s hard for me to adjust to what‘s so -tough times
called new normal but later on I got Undergoing Culture
used to it. -adjusting pace Shock
Emotional
-accepting Frustration
R5: Uhm during this pandemic increased
considering that uhm partially inclination towards
corrugated to to else I‘ve been Socio-political
actually really feel frustrated and -difficulty engagement
specially when this academic tree
started but siguro I must say na I‘ve -more engaged Keeping Up with
been more socially and politically the Digital
uhmm engaged than I was nung wala transformation of
pang pandemic since almost everything
130
 that uhmm is are now held online or society
virtually.
R6 emphasizes the
unprecedented impact
of the pandemic in Exploration and
R6: For the past few months having his/her life. He/she Making use of
this pandemic, I experienced also suggests that Available
extraordinary things like staying at because of the Opportunities
home for several months which is not pandemic, she has
my thing to be exact but kinda used to become more increased
it now. I also tried to do some activities politically engaged in inclination towards
since people around me are having many pressing issues. Socio-political
their good time learning and exploring engagement
new hobbies which unfortunately
doesn't suit my procrastinating and Emotional
lethargic self. I was also becoming Stressful Frustration
more aware of the current situation in
the Philippines through news and +mental health
social media. (anxiety)
Cynicism and
R7: Nakakastress, kasi ano, first off *hard, helpless disenchantment
yung anxiety na binibigay ng COVID,
ganun. Kasi hindi nga natin nakikita
tapos parang sobrang hirap magcope-
up kasi isolated ka lang sa bahay
ganun. Tapos parang ang hirap kasi
sobrang helpless ko nitong pandemic.
Kasi wala akong magawa about things,
ganern. Sobrang out of control ng mga
nangyayari, yun.

Q2. How engaged are R3: So, uh…before Before: not engaged Increased Socio- Increased Socio- External factors
you to current events pandemic…uhm…I‘m not engaged as political political affecting engagement
now compared to pre- much as I am now… uhm…first, + busy at school Engagement Engagement
pandemic times? becasue of school. Uhm, sometimes Impacts of Pandemic on
Elaborate your answer. I‘m too busy with school works Now: very engaged Convenience of Convenience of Socio-political
that…ah…that, uhm, looking at the engagement due to engagement due to Engagement
+digital age digitalization increased free time
news is very hard but now, ah, since
it‘s digital, I can…I can just…look at
Twitter or Google and I‘ll see the latest Socio-political Convenience of
news in Philippines…or…in terms of Engagement as a engagement due to

131
COVID, especially. habit digitalization

R4: As an individual living in this -Very engaged than Presence of

world where COVID 19 is still ever Technological
happening I am more engaged to Challenges Increased Socio-
currents events now compared to pre- -became more political
pandemic times because today COVID cooperative Engagement due to Engagement
19 is continuously wide spreading Influence from
across the world and I need to Peers and Family Increased
cooperate with our government to Discipline and
lessen the risk of virus spreading. Subservience
-Very engaged due to Increased Socio-
R5: Uhm ayun as I‘ve said nga I‘ve influence of
been more active and participative political
technology Engagement
when it comes to social, political or
any currents events compared to the Convenience of
pre-pandemic times now that engagement due to
everything are done in in the di-digital R6 is thankful for the digitalization
world. more virtual nature of
the new normal as it Convenience of
R6: Before, I was always busy in gave her the engagement due to
school activities and academics, I opportunity to pay increased free time
always go home late and when I'm at attention to news and
home basically I do my school stuffs current affairs, Convenience of
and then sleep so there is no enough especially those engagement due to
time to check for the news nor to scroll found online in social digitalization
on social media but compared now, I media.
more focused on social media Engagement due to
especially in twitter which almost all Influence from
the people are aware to the current Peers and Family
situations in the Philippines and since
my family are always watching news,
before, I just overhead it now I have
Increased socio-
interest on watching the whole Eye opener political awareness
program of the news. *pandemic

Engaged to news
R7: Parang yung pandemic yung
naging eye opener sakin about things
ganon. Parang naging open ako sa
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 social issues, mga nakikinig ng news,
nagbabasa ng articles, yun.

Q3. Off the top of your R3: So during pandemic, some of the Education issue Social Isolation and Online and Social Issues
head, what different issues I can recall are…uhm…ah, of Quarantine-related Distance Learning
pandemic-related course, issues regarding education. +uncertainty Personal Issues Crisis Issues on the Justice
issues* do you recall So…uhm…when pandemic happened System and Human
encountering during the in the Philippines…uhm…education, Incompetent leaders Issues relating to Issues on the Rights
year 2020? It can be old ah, is become uncertain especially for Restrictions on Government‘s
news, current events, or some Filipinos who are not privileged. Movement and Pandemic Issues on Political and
any other timely issues And another issue Activity Response Press Freedom
you can remember the is…uhm…incompetent Issues on Corruption
most. leaders…uhm…such as a lot of Public Health Issues
caused by the and Government
Philippine departments, government Issues on Labor Expenditure
and departments are revealed to have COVID-19
Pandemic and
incompetent leaders…uhm…like Unemployment Issues on Pandemic and
-inrecreasing rate of
DOH, DSWD and such Disaster Response
unemyloyment
Public Health
R4: Hmm accordingly to the news that Issues caused by Issues on Online
-lost of trust to
I heard during this pandemic time a the COVID-19 Classes
President Duterte
lots of people are suffering because of Pandemic
the Filipino is increasing the group of Foreign Affairs Issues
an unemployment since COVID 19
begins, uhmm also the far increasing of
our Covid Cases and I heard also the Concerns
about the issue on how people lost their surrounding
trust in our government specially to aChina-oriented
Mr. President because they are R5 is disappointed Foreign Policy and
thinking that the president is always in with President Affairs
favor with China. Duterte‘s action with
this pandemic time Issues on the
R5: Right now the issues that are and he/she is well Government‘s
running in my head are mostly related informed regarding Pandemic
to uhmm to President Duterte‘s late with the issue of Phil- Response
imposing of travel banned which Health corruption.
uhmm which happened last year and Online and
uhmm which actually disappointed me Distance Learning
that specially last and speaking of Crisis

133
timely issues another is I think Issues on
pandemic relate issue that I‘m gonna Government
go is the issue regarding the students, Corruption
issue regarding the allege pull of 15
billion out on of Phil-Health Phil- Concerns
Health officials from the from the surrounding
agency collage with the corruption aChina-oriented
head resulted to big fund struggled R6 is very informed Foreign Policy and
form or for the national health services of current issues and Affairs
and uhm assist. was able to list down Extrajudicial
a handful without Killings
much difficulty. This
effectively Issues relating to
demonstrates his/her the ABS-CBN
R6: 1. The first positive individual here increased engagement Shutdown and
in the Philippines is Chinese in politics and news Freedom of
Nationality. which he/she already Press/Speech
mentioned in past
2. Different issues like killings, the responses. Issues on the
ABS CBN Shutdown but in general Government‘s
issues that are made and done just to Pandemic
cover the irresponsible government we Response
had during this pandemic.
Issues relating to
3. Duterte offers 10 million and was COVID-19
raised up to 50 million rewards to any Vaccines
Filipino who will discover a vaccine
against COVID-19 Online and
Distance Learning
4. DepEd pursuing Online classes Crisis
without a proper plan.
Issues on High-
5. Debold Sinas Mañanita issue. profile Quarantine
Violations
6. Sen. Pimental for ciolating
quarantine protocols.

7. Asking for more power for the Issues related to

president but cannot even help Pandemic
Filipinos during the pandemic. -lockdown ( whole Frontliners
lockdown is an issue ,
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 8. Unprepared community quarantine; the top)
lack of support from the National and
Local Governments of other cities and -handling/slow action Issues on the
provinces. of gov‘t Government‘s
Pandemic
9. Covid-19 hazard continues but the +worse effect Response
hazard pays of frontline workers does
not increase.

R7: Uhm…yung simula siguro nung

nagkalockdown kasi diba mga January
medyo di pa ramdam dito sa Quezon.
Tapos nung biglang naglockdown
parang konting use ng pag- deteriorate
lalo na yung paghandle ng government
dun sa pandemic…uhm…hindi agad
nag-ban…hindi agad nagkaroon ng
travel ban. Parang ano parang sobrang
off lang parang alam nila…dapat alam Issues on the
nila yung result nun hanggang ngayon Activist
may COVID pa rin ganun tas paran Crackdown and
sobrang daming personal agenda na Red-tagging
parang tinake advantage yung Controversy
pandemic, kung ano-ano yung pinasa
especially yung worse…kay tatay.
Yung kahit ano kahit hindi siya
literally pandemic-related pero parang
connected siya sa everything. Parang
sobrang dami…sa balita, ang daming
pinapatay tapos yung mga activist
narered tag just because nagdedemand
sila ng better na paghahandle ng
pandemic.

Q4. As a Gen-Z voter R3: So…as a Gen-Z voter…uhm…of Incompetency of Social Isolation and Issues on the Social Issues
during the COVID-19 course, one of the issues that is leaders Quarantine-related Government‘s
Pandemic, which of the significant for me are issues regarding Personal Issues Pandemic Economic Issues
issues you just incompetent leaders in the Philippines. +significance of Response
mentioned do you think Uhm, First of all…uhm…we‘re voting choosing the better Issues on the Issues on the Justice
holds the most to vote those leaders and…uhm…as than the past regime Activist Crackdown System and Human
significance for you we dealt during and Red-tagging
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personally and why? pandemic…uhm…leaders that Controversy Rights
…uhm…not we...that….uhm….past
generations voted not competent Issues on Political and
enough to lead the country especially Press Freedom
now that we‘re in a pandemic. So, now Issues on Labor and
as a Gen,-Z voter, I…ah…I think Unemployment Issues on Pandemic and
both…ah…it is very significant for me Disaster Response
because I will someday be a voter on Issues on the
elections 2022 and…uhm…it is Activist
significant for me becausue…I…it is Crackdown and
my responsibility to vote…uhm...who I Red-tagging
think will be a better leader, better than R4 is questioning Controversy
the past leaders. peoples reaction and
not trusting the Issues on the
R4: Uhmm the issue about why people government. Government‘s
critize the government and why didn‘t Pandemic
trusting our President because the Response
economy of the Philippines on how the
government rule it. Issues Related to
Economy and
Commerce
-Incompetency of
R5: Uhmm I‘m not sure if I‘m already
leaders
aware to vote but if I were to vote in
the coming 2022 Election considering -not sure if she/he is Issues on the
the fact that were in the pandemic aware to vote Government‘s
those issues will probably revolve Pandemic
around or with has something to do Response
with the uhmm
competencies,capability of the officials
and uhmm those who did first think
consideration that I would take in at the
voters to we would be like for me ah Extrajudicial
right now in the new efficient were or Killings and Police
or fade something like that uhmm are Brutality
contrived, capable and incompitented
officials who by this time still In addition to a few Issues relating to
happened impose proper platforms and other issues, the the ABS-CBN
pandemic response respondent raised Shutdown and
class-related issues Freedom of
R6: Different issues like killings, the and the current power
136
 ABS CBN Shutdown but in general dynamics in the Press/Speech
issues that are made and done just to country as something
cover the irresponsible government we very important to her. Issues on the
had during this pandemic because it Government‘s
slowly showing the true colors of our Pandemic
government and making them look Response
more irresponsible and ignorant. Also,
it seems like low-income people are Little things matter
being sacrificed and the power is all
given to those who don't deserve it +overseeing events
making the Philippines more (awareness)
complicated as it is.
Voting responsible Universal
Concern for all
Issues
R7: Uh…para sakin, hindi siya most
significant pero lahat siya significant Issues on the
dahil every little thing nagmamatter. Government‘s
This Gen- Z voters parang Pandemic
responsibility natin na ma-oversee Response
yung mga pangyayari ganern. Ayun
parang important siya lalo na sa
pagdedesisyon natin sa ivo-vote natin
na leader ganun para hindi na maulit
yung nangyarin kapalpakan ng
gobyerno

Q5. As a Gen-Z voter R3: So…same answer as number four. Incompetency of Issues on Issues on the Social Issues
during the COVID-19 In general, of course, issue that is leaders Polarization and Government‘s
Pandemic, which of the significant for the country, in general Political Differences Pandemic Economic Issues
issues you just is, of course, incompetent leaders +failures of service Response
mentioned do you think because they‘re the one leading the Public Health Issues Issues on Pandemic and
holds the most country, they‘re the one…uhm…ah, caused by the Disaster Response
significance for the they‘re the leaders even though we‘re COVID-19
Pandemic Issues on Online
country in general and in a democratic government, of course, Classes
why? they‘re…they‘re the one who
decide…uhm… they‘re the one who
decides on what to do and even though
it‘s suppose to be the
people…uhm…so yeah, I think it‘s the Issues on the
incompetent leaders. The issues Government‘s
137
regarding the incompetent leaders on R4 is very affected Pandemic
our country. with this rising issues Response

R4: Oh I think the issue on government

because as an individual living in this
country I‘m effected by it.

R5: 0kay .. okay ..Uhmm so ayun so -The officials Issues on the

lahat naman yung responce the the last competensies, Government‘s
question last question will be uhmm capabilities and Pandemic
issues regarding the officials accountability to the Response
competencies and capabilities and issues
accountability will be the issues that I
want to take in consideration and
inaddition to that pala I think uhmm
issues regarding with this officials does Public Health
uhmm national matters would be R6 is clearly still very Issues caused by
uhmm also hold the most significance worried about the the COVID-19
for the country and in the media world current state of the Pandemic
speaking. COVID-19 pandemic
and the implications Issues Related to
R6: For me, the general issue, the it may still hold for Economy and
pandemic that still escalating in our the future of the Commerce
country. Since this are causing low country.
economic rate and jobless people that Issues on Labor
might lead to higher crime rate in the and
Philippines. Moreover, the education Unemployment
system is also affected, illiterate and Lockdown issues
uneducated rate might arose if no Issues on Crime
solution are given. Start: travel ban (slow
action) Online and
Distance Learning
+domino effect on Crisis
R7: Uhm…yung sa lockdown siguro. economy, jobs
Kasi parang…ay yung sa travel ban *worse result
pala kasi parang dun nagstart lahat bad
things ayun. Dun, simula bumaba yung
sa economy natin lalo na yung sobrang
daming naapektuhan na tao, mga
workers na nawalan ng trabaho, yun.

138
 Parang as Filipinos, yun.

Q6. How would you R3: So in terms of political Passive aggressive. Apolitical/Apathetic Political Empathy Voter
describe your political views…uhm…surfing in the internet, Disenfranchisement
views/perspectives? I‘m the type of person to be passive +based on diff. Generally Confused
aggressive. I don‘t judge if…ah…I Factors to judge or Lacks Direction Perspectives within the
don‘t judge…uhm…leaders or Political Spectrum
government officials based on what I +then makes own
heard on the news but based on what I conclusion, own Perspectives
heard from the people and from them. opinion irrespective of the
So I based it on…uh…I based it on Political Spectrum
may different factors before I judge Independent
them and…ah…and of course, I Perspectives
actually I tend to think of my own
conclusion rather that the conclusions
made by the public. So…ah…just so I
can formulate my own opinions
and…ah….make a point
R4 political
about…ah…about them.
perspective is to
R4: My political perspective obvious is always look at the
by looking at the positive side always positive side.
looking at the positive side.
Unpolarized and
R5: I, I, I Uhmm I guess I‘m more of Moderate Views
R5 is very engaged
the ahh eagerly politically involved
with political.
person since I‘m more of the ahh
person will imitate and ahh digest the
other party‘s opinions and ah stance Libertarian
uhmm in all issues let say uhmm
nation issues I‘m more of the uhmm
pro individuals rights and democracy In a general sense, the Politcal
and ahh something like that with. respondent says that Pragmatism
his/her political views
R6: My political view in politics is are always critical of
against the government reckless and government
thoughtless decisions. recklessness.

139
 R7: Uhm… parang dahil dun sa Engaged, critical Facts-based
pandemic naging engaged ako sa Political Views
politics, parang naging mas critical ako +opened to facts
na na-open yung eyes ko na everything (panget,
is interconnected. Ah…ayun parang incompetent=personal
natuto ako na yung judgement ko ay agenda)
based sa facts yung parang dahil sa Politically
nangyayari parang nung una nagalit Disenfranchised
ako, yes, tas parang gawa nung sa
nangyari, naopen ako kung gano
kapanget yung sistem natin, ganern.
Tapos lahat ng yun ay nagru-root sa
panget na leadership ng gobyerno na
parang puro personal agenda na
pagtatatag ng mga batas, yun.

Q7. Looking back, how R3: Uhm, so during pandemic, we all - awareness to Resentment towards Growing Disapproval
did these issues change know a lot of issues resurfaced politics on diff. People with and Resentment
your political and…uhm…a lot of them, we aspects Contrasting Political Broadening of
perspectives, especially just…ah…are just, a lot of incompetent Views Political Changes towards One’s
on current government leaders a re just revealed to be Views/Perspectives Socio-political
policies and incompetent now that…uh…we‘re Resentment towards Engagement and
incumbents? facing pandemic. So…uh…so in terms the Government and Perspectives
of political perspective…uh…it made its Leaders
me more aware…uhm…and more,
yeah, more aware what politics is all
about like its not just about politics, it
is also about business, influence, uhm
and more…ah….many other factors
140
and not just politics itself. So that‘s
what…that‘s what I‘m aware of now.

R4: It change my political perspective

somehow in terms of ruling of the R4 thinks that he/she Unsatisfaction
government I think they need to be perspective change towards Status
more on actions governing this country somehow and she/he Quo
like for example they need to be more thinks that
strict to lessen the wide spread of the government action is
virus. lacking and it need
more action.
R5: Ahh okay ahh looking back during Broadening of
the past few trainings of the R5 is now more
engaged and Political
inequations both local and national I Views/Perspectives
honeslty was not that engaged and politically involve
aware on how they take things into due to the issues
actions and until on if until that I part she/he witness.
of administration or theDuterte‘s
Administration kasi from the time this
administration started to I became quite
politically involve and ayun both local
and national and considering the ayun
uhh incompetencies and incapabilities
that I witness during their term. R6 suggests that the
current issues and Increasingly
R6: I might not really aware before state of our nation Outspoken
how the government especially the have honed her into Views/Perspectives
president governing us, but today it being more critical
made me more of a fighter for my own and outspoken, even
country to eradicate and to voice out if he/she may not
my opinion about the imprudent of the know everything
government. about the current
government.

-not minding before

Increased Sense of
-kabataan ang pag-asa
R7: Uhm… dati wala akong pakialam ng bayan
Responsibility
na parang I‘ll mind my own business towards Issues

141
 ganun. Pero yun nga as Gen-Zs -a responsibility as a Broadening of
syempre sabi nga, ―Ang kabataan ang youth, voter, citizen Political
pag-asa ng bayan‖. So (*to be open, to be Views/Perspectives
parang…uhm…its a responsibility for aware)
us na maging critical sa mga
nangyayari, yes. Tapos …uhm… ayun,
yung mga issue nga na yun yung
naging eye opener.

Q8. Looking forward, R3: So, uhm….because of these issues, -more responsible and Voter Disaffection Increased Unpopularity of Certain
in what ways do you because of the issues resurfaced during wise to voting Towards Older and Confidence Demographics of
think will these issues pandemic, I think…uhm…people or Traditional towards Fellow Candidates/Politicians
affect your mindset or voters will now be more responsible in *awareness how Politicians Voters that they Among Voters
overall outlook about voting, then now be wise on choosing politics work will Vote Wisely
the 2022 National …A lot of voters will now be more Distrust Towards Voter Responsibility
Elections? Why? aware of how politics work, will not *awareness to Politicians‘ Words Voter Disaffection
vote ‗just vote‘ because…uhm…this gimmicks of and Promises Towards Eagerness towards
person gave them money or this candidates to be Incompetent Elections
person…this…uhm….this candidate careful Incumbent
promise thme something even though Officials
+effect of
they know it will not happen. They will incompetency
not just vote them Voter Disaffection
because….uh….they‘ve been voting Towards Political
this family for generations and years. I Dynasties
think they‘ll be more responsible, be
more aware on how important voting
the right leaders is especially now
we‘ve in…uh…we‘ve experience so
far how hard it is…uhm…to have
leaders who are incompetent especially -Good for everyone‘s
now we‘re in a pandemic. sake
R4: Uhmm whom choosing the one I
want to vote because we need a leader
Increased
whose always thinking the good for R5 became more Confidence
everyone. aware and hoping that towards Self that
the voters would be They will Vote
R5: Ahh looking forward naman I wise enough and vote
think from the issues I that I‘ve just Wisely
according to officials
mention earlier ahhh I would say na I
Striving to become
become more aware and with regards
142
 to the 2022 national elections I think capabilities. an Informed Voter
that this issue will definitely remain be
and that other new voters hopefully
uhmm vote according to the official
capabilities vote according to their ahh Increased
to their accountability and vote Confidence
according to their competence and to towards Fellow
generally vote wisely. Voters that they
will Vote Wisely
R6: These issues will affect my R6 is signaling
mindset for the overall outlook about his/her intentions to
the 2022 National Elections as I think I be more watchful and Increased
will become more suspicious about a vigilant of political Vigilance and
certain candidate and be more aware to candidates in the Keener Voting
what this candidate done for the upcoming elections. Standards
country.
Striving to become
R7: Actually…uhm… ayoko na an Informed Voter
hintayin ang 2022 kasi hindi lang Ff 2022
naman yun yung only choice diba. Para Increased
ayun…mas magpapa-organize tayo sa -organized Eagenerness
mass organization. Parang ayun sa part towards the
Same same (sana
ko, parang gusto ko yung pumapakat sa Elections
hindi)
masa, ano ba yun, parang ano kasi
isipin natin sa 2022 elections parang
bagong mukha lang ng pasismo
na…uhm…parang maiiba lang yung Voter Disaffection
taong mauupo pero baka parehas pa rin Towards Far-Right
yun gagawin nila, we don‘t know. Yun Politicians
lang.
Negative
Expectations
towards Election
Outcome

Q9. In light of your R3: So, as a youth voter, of course I - encourage fellow Election of More Voting-Related Goals
most important issues think every youth voter aims for this, It youth to register and Youth Leaders
and the upcoming is to…uhm…encourage. First, vote Motivate and Election Outcome-
elections, what do you encourage others to register for Exercise of Voting Inspire Other Related Goals
aim to achieve as a voting…ah…because voting is - informing the Rights Youth to Vote
youth voter in this important and it is our right. Next is to
143
country? influence…uhm to…uhm…explain to importance of voting Return to Exercise of Voting
people how important for choosing Normalcy/Resolving Rights
who to vote responsibly, wisely and - politics and voting the Pandemic‘s
all. And that politics is not a joke and is not a joke! Crises
voting is not joke and we should take
it seriously…uhm…make tons of (nice) Be an Informed
research about the candidate or Voter
upcoming candidates so we can vote
the right person…Ah, person that we R4 wants to be one of
think can lead the Philippines the voters who vote
especially now. the ones who capable
for the position and Elect Capable
R4: Uhmm to be one of those people for the goos sake of Leaders
who voted the ones that are capable for people.
the position for the sake of all people
living her in the Philippines. R5 hope that the
voters will be wise to
R5: Uhmm with those said vote officials who is
considerations and generally hoping Elect Capable
deserving and Leaders
for us the wiser and enlightened youth capable. And aim to
voters to be able elect and put into have a better health,
position the uhm the deserving and economy and
capable chose in the government for education sectors.
the sake of the countries government
and ayun overall the better men na The respondent
improving our health sectors, economy believes that through
sectors, education yun. her participation, she Contribute to
is contributing to the Creating Good
R6: I aim for better Government which formation of good Governance
care and listen to their people. governance in this
country.
Elect Capable
R7: Ayun bumoto sa tamang tao. Ayun -Vote the right,
Leaders
iboto yung candidates na tumatakbo deserving one
para sa masa, hindi para sa personal -critical to events
agenda nila at yun maging critical sa
mga nangyayari at sana mailuklok -put who is right for
yung tamang tao, yun na hindi the country
magtetake advantage tulad ng nangyari

144
 ngayon. Yun lang.

Q10. In general, what R3: So…uh…in the upcoming -choose rational, Polarized Political Election Outcome-
comes into your mind elections, I think people will be more responsible, wise Landscape Related Expectations
when you think of the rational in voting, will be more leaders Optimism with
upcoming elections? responsible, will be more wise of their Empty Promises Regards to Voter Voting-Related
Describe your chocies…uhm…purely because *due to incompetency from Politicians Responsibility Expectations
expectations or personal they‘ve experienced how hard it is to of leaders
feelings about it, if any. have leaders who are incompetent and Political Cynicism
not enough to serve…uhm… the -encouraging voters
Philippines and…ah…I (stronger generation
think…uhm…new generations, youth of voters)
Empowered Youth
voters will encourage a lot of people -fairness and the right Participation in the
more…uhm…like to register fot he one for PH Elections
upcoming elections and to vote wisely
and to…uh…research…uhm…about
the candidates for the election and I
think that will be highly encouraged by Optimism with
them and so…uh…I hope…uhm…the Regards to
voting will be fair and will be right and R4 believes that Election Security
the result will be what is right, what voters need to vote
our country deserves. wisely because she
believe that
candidates are only Political Cynicism
R4: Ahh people need to vote wisely
because almost of the candidate are good at the
just good only at the beginning. beginning.

R5: Ahh okey honestly speaking I‘m R5 is confident now

I‘m feeling a bit more confident in the that the new set of Optimism with
2022 National Elections and in the voters are more aware Regards to
upcoming elecctions compare to the and enlightened than Election Outcome
last sets of elections considering how the last sets of
uhmm our new sets of voters including elections.
as the gen z uhm become generally
become more enlightened over the
with the ayun nga issues we witness.
R6 believes that the Empowered Youth
R6: I think this upcoming election is youth is generally Participation in the
145
different from the past years because wiser and more Elections
many youth voters are aware to the critical now than in
current situation that will make things past elections and is Optimism with
unique and possible. We will attain confident that this Regards to Voter
what we all want. could have big Responsibility
implications for the
2022 elections. Optimism with
Regards to
Election Outcome

don‘t wait 2022

(register!)
R7: Ayun nga tulad ng sinabi ko Loss of Confidence
kanina, parang hindi na natin kailangan -naghihirap na in the Elections
hintayin yung elections kasi Pilipinas is better
parang…kasi diba mayaman ang than this (current
Pilipinas pero bakit naghihirap ang situation)
mamamayang Pilipino? If kasi parang
sa government natin …uhm…ayon -actions matter to do
parang hinahayaan nila the right thing
yung…hanggang ngayon evident pa rin
yung imperialism, yung
feudalism…ah…sobrang lala pa rin ng
inequality according sa statistics
ganun. Tapos yung sobrang bureaucrat Loss of Confidence
system and parang hindi dapat in the Elections
natin…uhm… hindi dapat natin iniaasa
dun sa elections kasi parang simula…
ayun nung panahon pa lang ni Andres
Bonifacio binabakan (binalak) na
nilang tanggalin yung pbk, yung
imperialism, yung feudalism,
bureaucrat capitalism. Kasi ang sobra- Political Cynicism
sobrang oppression yung nadudulot sa
mga Filipinostas parang…ah…yung sa
elections parang foreshadowing lang
siya na parang may choice tayo to vote
pero ang totoo ay parehas na…parehas
na parang prehas na persona lang ng
tao, yun.

146
Q11. In what way do R3: So regarding the issues, I think the -makes good solution Causes Further Positive Impacts
you think will these people or voters will base their votes during pandemic Division and
issues impact the future on candidate s that made…uh…that (leaders) - voters Polarization More Emphasis on Negative Impacts
political landscape in made a good solutions to issues that we Platforms
this country and the faced during the pandemic. I think if -emphasis of Changes to Addressing the
outcomes of the 2022 this someone didn‘t make justice to his pandemic effect – Elections and COVID-19
National Elections? position and didn‘t properly serve what candidates Campaign Norms Pandemic
he is to do…uhm…I think voters will due to the
base their votes on those actions that Coronavirus
they did in fixing those issues. And in
terms of political landscape, I think
because of the issues resurfaced during
the pandemc, I
think…uhm…candidates will base
their plataporma on helping people and
give emphasis to the effects of -people are more
pandemic to them. aware

R4: Uhmm the people are now aware -believe than there
will be a better Create a Political
of everything and because of that they
government leaders Landscape of Good
will choose wisely as a result of it there
on 2022 Governance
will be a better government leaders on
2022

R5: Uhmm okey ayun similar to what Increased

R5 is hoping that
I‘ve just said I‘m hoping I‘m hoping Accountability for
voters will vote
that ayun I‘m hoping that best of this Politicians
officials who is
official will be encountered during the
accountable and
term of this and the Duterte admin
deserving.
uhmm will allow our voters to be able
to elect and ayun to be able to elect and
to vote to position the light full and
accountable officials in the upcoming Because of these Cynical Political
elections. issues, according to Landscape
the respondent, more
R6: These issues impact the future and more Filipino
political landscape in the country and voters like her will
the outcomes of the 2022 National learn to be more
Elections in a way that many Filipino, critical of how
just like me, I think, will be more decisive these
suspicious and doubtful to a certain
147
 candidate whereas they will be more politicians/candidates
wise than ever before. will be in the future.

Experiences-changes-
smart Systematic Change

*enough to change
R7: Uhm…since marami naman
tayong Gen-Z voters, siguro naman *choose whose right
dahil sa na-experience natin we‘re
smart enough para iboto yung mga
tamang tao, hopefully yun.
Tsaka…uhm…maraming magii-step
up para baguhin yung bulok na
sistema, yun.

Q12. Taking into R3: a.) In terms of personality, I don‘t a. a wise leader for Progressive Progressive Values
account the issues that hope for a kind leader, an intelligent the people and for the
are important to you, leader but a wise leader. Uh…first of better Philippines Politicians with the Personality Traits
what characteristics all, because if you‘re wise, you know Highest Chance of
would you now like to what to do, you know what is right, Winning Decisive Performance
see in an elected public you know what people needs, you Experience/Background
servant such as the know what can make the Philippines Transparent
President? better. So if you‘re wise, you‘ll be kind Non-traditional
and intelligent so it‘s a better choice to Politician
a. in terms of their have a wise leader.
personality traits Serious or
b.) So in terms of experience and Determined
b. in terms of their background, so in terms of background
experience or first of all, educational background. I b. Political Younger
background hope the candidates, not just the leader background, edu., bg
Has aPolitics-
but the candidates…uhm…all have inclined to politics Intellectual
c. in terms of their Related
political backgrounds also educational
stance on issues c. Giving long term Has Experience in Educational
background that…uhm…that are
solution for better PH Politics or background
related to politics and just…uhm…not
just the candidate because they have Governance
the influence, because they have
businesses, because they can gain, they

148
can win the election.

c.) Sa stance on issues, ah…I hope that Decisive

are future leaders will…uh…in terms
of issues, they will fix…ah…they will
immediately think of a solutions for
issues, not just a solution but…uhm…a
solution that can last long, a permanent
solution that will give benefit to the
country, to the Filipinos, not just a
temporary one will soon fade after
their term. a.)leaders who has a
strong personality,
R4: a.) Uhmm in terms of their intelligen,fair and Charismatic
personal personality traits they should carefull for the sake
be they should have a strong of the country and to
personality uhmm they should be it‘s people Patriotic
intelligent enough, always fair, careful
on what they are saying uhmm and b.)has already Has Experience in
have the strong affections for the experience on ruling Politics or
Pilipinos. big community Governance
b.) In terms of their experiences or c.) a wise leader and Decisive
backrounds of course at least have giving good solution
ruled to a big community. to the issues Intellectual
C.) uhmm they need they need to be
knowledgeable enough and always
choose to make the good actions to A. a leader who has
resolve the issues. honor, achievements,
and responsible also Accomplished with
R5: a.) Uhmm speaking into the serious enough to rule Good Track
account this are the issues and my the country Record
incounters during the past the past few
years I think there will merchendents B. Leaders whose
and fault settings in my standards and accountable and
expectations for elected public servant wide-oriented
such as the president for a those who Serious or
C. A leader whose
ahh probably will envolve around the Determined
more liberal and
honor and achieves and seriousness
courageous to fight in
when it comes to their reposibilities
149
and beyond elected public servants of their stances Progressive
the country

b.) Uhmm ahh for me in general I‘m

generally hoping for this elected Has a Public
public officials to be more accountable Health Related
and widely oriented in their in their Educational
chosen of their position lalo sa health. background

c.) ahh for letter c in terms of their

stances on issues and uhmm I‘m I‘m
hoping for this elected public servant
to be uhmm what you called this to be
uhm more liberal and couragedable
regarding this probable or regarding
the ahh ayun nga regarding this
probable issues that our country might
The respondent is
face uhmm in the near future.
indifferent towards
R6: I think the President should be the politicians‘ rhetoric
one that doesn't need excuses to help or words. What Serious or
his/her country-men and more humane. matters according to Determined
He/She will not just spit out words but him/her, are the
actions and whether Committed to
rather do acts that will prove he/she
these politicians will Protecting Human
deserve the position.
serve unconditionally Rights
R7: a.) Ah, personality (without needing
Feminist
traits…uhm…makamasa, hindi excuses) or not
misogynistic, hindi pasista, Anti-Fascist
uhm…ah…parang hindi hindi nya ini-
include yung personal agenda niya sa Selfless/Has No
a. Makamasa, not
pagpapatakbo ng bansa natin, sapagli- Personal Agenda
misogynist, not
lead ng mga Pilipino, yun. Tsaka
pasista
parang open siya sa constructive
critisims, yun. -for the country not
personal
b.) Uhm, syempre as
presidente…uhm…nakalagay sa Has Experience in
-open to constructive Politics or
batas…parang sobrang baba nung criticism
criteria para pag president ka. Governance
Ah…ayun, sana itaas nila yung
150
 standards kasi grabe naman. Parang
president ka like…parang ano di
porke…ah… tumakbo ka ng…di porke b. Standards fit for
may experience ka na sa pagli-lead, for president
example mayor. Parang may certain
age limit lang parang…ah, pag mayor - no just experience
ka tapos gantong years old ka na ay but the ―experience‖
pwede ka nang tumakbo ng president -worthy
parang ganun. Parang…di ba wala
naman siya sa ano… sa age kasi may
mga taong fit na pero parang nali-limit
lang ng age pero may mga taong fit na c. Considering the
parang yung stage ng moral majority
development nila ay pambata pa rin
parang ganun. Ayun, sana yung future *all are included, all
have right, all are Non-Populist
president ay worthy enough para dun
sa position. affected to decisions

c.) Ayun…sana kinocondider nila yung *no personal!

sa majority ang…hindi lang yung sa
opinion ng may power, may kaya. Anti-Capitalist
Parang dapat nakikinig din sila
sa…yun, nakikinig din sila sa hinaing
ng masa, lalo na yung nasa laylayan ng
lipunan ganun kasi parang most of the
time yung decisions nila ay affected ng
upper one percent sa societal class yun
tulad nila Cynthia Villar. Parang sila
yung nangunguha ng lupa ng
magsasaka para I-industrialize, gawing
subdivision. Ah parang ano…sana I-
priority nila yung mga kapakanan ng
mga tao more that their personal
agenda.

Q13. Again taking into R3: So, platforms I hope to be Education Farmer Assistance Reform on the Economy
account the issues that proposed…uhm…are…I have two, Educational
are important to you, first is about education so I hope that +improved ones (the Platforms Ensuring System Health
what platforms or our education will be better quality) Greater Civil
policies would you like improved…uhm…because in Liberties Education

151
to see proposed on the comparison of education in other Platforms Governance
table come this 2022? countries…ah…they have better Addressing Wealth
Why? education, they better quality of Economy Inequality Environment
education but…ah…how do I say
that…not as much as Philippines. Not +opportunity to small Reform on the Laws
as difficult, not as technical as businesses Educational System
Society
Philippines but the quality is great, +jobs to Filipinos for
something like that. Next is in terms of Platforms
better country (no Addressing Inflation
economy, so I need to be an OFW)
hope…uhm….Philippines or the Platforms Job Growth and
government will give more Addressing Red Employment
opportunities to small businesses Tape and
and…uhm…give more jobs, offer Bureaucracy
more jobs to the Filipinos that are
based in the Philippines and not
overseas…uhm…because it will Better Economic
benefit the Philippines anyway so I opportunitites
hope our future graduates, our future
college graduates, it will help them to
find job in the Philippines and to -need to increase the
remove the stereotype thinking that minimun wage salary
only if you became an OFW only you
will have a better life, a better job, a
better pay.

R4: Based on the nararanasan ko na rin

they need to increase the minimun
wage salary so that people can afford Increasing the
-Health and
their needs like basic necessaries like Minimum Wage
Education sectors
food yung mga ganon mga yun lang
kailangan nila I increase yung minimun *fundings
wage salary kasi parang mesyadong
mababa.

R5: Uhmm considering our situation

right now some of the policies that I
would like too see uhm proposed on More funding for
the table in uhmm ayun is thw 2022 the Health Sector
generally would be related to the More funding for
funding on our health and education the Education
152
sectors and siguro upon the cut off to Sector
our mutual portions kasi parang over
funding na and I think na nelelegnet na Platforms
yung mga ganyang sectors na Addressing the
nabangkit ko and ayun. R6 reiterates his/her Public health crisis
concern towards the due to COVID-19
R6: Since we are not all sure when this COVID-19 pandemic
pandemic will end, I think a platform and believes that Platforms
regarding the pandemic, also platforms issues addressing it Addressing Illegal
regarding illegal mining and should be prioritized Mining
corruption. in the next elections.
Platforms
Addressing
Government
Corruption

R7: Uhm…policies…parang tanggalin -anti-terror law x Repeal of the Anti-

na yung anti-terror law…ah, ayun Terror Law
parang more on…kasi nitong pandemic *revive democracy of
yung special powers, yung ktl…parang PH
segway lang yun kasi parang nawala
yung essence ng democracy ng
Philippines parang ayun parang - Limited options
foreshadowing lang sobrang vast na rights
parang pinapalabas nila na we have a
choice pero parang ang ibinibigay lang *SOGIE
talaga nila sa atin ay limited options.
Pero sinasabi nila na may options pero
hindi talaga yun yung only option,
-neoliberal education
ganun. Uhm…yung mga policies na
x Passing of the
ayun tulad nung sa SOGIE equality.
SOGIE Bill
Parang…uhm..kasi yung SOGIE, hindi +left out students,
lang naman yun para sa LGBTQ less infos. (kulang)
community, its for everyone. Parang
sobrang taboo pa rin kasi ng topic na
yun sa mga tao parang ganun na pag
SOGIE kasi parang hindi educated -open to public,
yung mga tao. Ayun sana matanggal opinions
yung neoliberal na system ng education
kasi parang tulad ngayon na set-up *hear out Filipinos!
Reform on the
natin, sobrang nakakadrain. Tulad nun
153
 may mga hindi naiituro sa educational +need to be Educational
system natin na sobrang important knowledgeable System
dapat kasi neoliberal nga siya
parang…ayun tulad ng sa history +inform Filipinos
books parang nakalagay dun si Aquino
sobrang great president pero ang totoo
wala naman siyang pinagkaiba kay
Marcos, ganun. Parang sa pagpapa-
organize natin sa mass organization
parang ayun dun ako namulat na ano
parang…ang educational system natin
ay sobrang…uhm, parang affected siya
ng medyo feudal na system. Tapos
ayun, about sa platforms sana nga ay
mas maging open sa public, sa opinion
ng mga tao, sa hinaing ng masa, ng
mga magsasaka, ng mahihirap, yun.
Pero sana wag lang promises kasi
parang nung binoto ng mga tao si
Duterte kasi parang siya yung iba
ganun pero siya talaga ay…siya yung
political clown kasi parang di naman
natin masisisi yung mga taong bumoto
sa kaniya dahil sa sobrang bulok nga
nung sistem, nagsettle na tayo dun sa
best kahit hindi pa siya…kahit hindi
naman talaga maganda yung trace nyia
parang ganun, parang siya yung naging
spec of light, parang ganun. Sana
magkaron ng worthy candidates sa
2022.

Third Cycle of Data Analysis (Intermediate Coding)

*Respondents R8, R9, R10, and R11 are all 18-19 year olds.

154
Questions Responses Memoing Analysis Categories
Constant Comparison
Codes from last Codes from this Concepts
cycle/s cycle

Q1. Describe your R8: The pandemic made R8 suggests that the Sanguine Attitudes Cynicism and Optimism and Positive
experiences so far me anxious about the current state of In Light of disenchantment Resilience Experiences
during this future because of its government response Difficult Situations
pandemic. uncertainty and the against the pandemic General affliction Negative
government is not is contributing greatly Resilience Experiences
handling the situation to his/her anxiety.
well. I think the COVID- Personal Affliction
Exploration and
19 pandemic exposed the Making use of situational adjustment
incompetency of the so-
Problems arising Available
called "leaders" of our Socio-political
country. Opportunities Emotional
+ mental health Engagement
Frustration
Undergoing Socio-political
*problems in PH
Culture Shock Disenchantment
R9: Ok lang naman, + online, family
kaso nga madami ring *engaged Societal Frustration Exploration and self-
mga problems na nag- improvement
arise kagaya ng mental Emotional
health problems parang Frustration
Undergoing
nagtaas yung chances na
magkaroon ako ng increased Culture Shock
anixety at depression inclination towards
kasi nga di sanay sa Socio-political
gantong setting, sanay sa engagement
personal touch, ganun.
Keeping up with
Walang masyadong
the Digital
personal touch ngayon
transformation of
and I‘m stayong with my
society
family and yung family
ko naman di ko ganun Cynicism and
ka-close kasi hindi sila disenchantment
masyadong you know, di Keeping up with
sila masyadong open sa the Digital
mga ideas kaya hindi transformation of
masyadong ok yung society

155
pakikisama sa kanila Societal
pero I‘m trying naman Frustration
na magcope up dito sa
online setting na to.
Yung mga events sa
Pilipinas yun,
nakakadagdag din yun Resilience
ng problem kasi…I‘m R10 demonstrates
open to ano nga…I‘m some inclination to Cynicism and
open to a lot of issues remain resilient or disenchantment
and wala nga ako optimistic as they
makausap sa bahay, brace through this
yung friends ko naman pandemic, but also
di maka…yung iba busy lists down some of
pero naiintindihan the negative issues
naman. Naiintidihan that has greatly
yung busy nila impacted him/her
pero…ah…parang throughout the
kinikimkim ko sa sarili pandemic. Emotional
ko and hindi ko…wala Frustration
akong mapagsabihan ng
kahit ano mang mga
issues, mga bagay na
dapat ay normally
nasasabi ko sa mga
friends ko face to face. awareness
R10: This pandemic -adopt
tested my mental health
stability and I had a hard *edu, livelihood,
time engaging with response to pandemic Undergoing
people especially that Culture Shock
I'm used to physical -selves first
interactions rather than Resilience
virtual. Going out was
also one of my ways to
ease my troubled mind
that's why it was hard for increased
me to cope up during the inclination
lockdown. Everyone has towards Socio-
156
to adjust that's why I can political
also feel the hardships of engagement
people. Despite that, I
continue to survive and Resilience
not let these unfortunate
circumstances
overwhelm me.

R11: So far yung

pandemic…ah…just like
the other
people…ah…parang
mas nagiging mas aware
tayo ganon, we learn
how to adopt and adjust
the current situations
especially sa education,
in terms of livelihood
and in terms na rin kung
paano tayo mag-
response sa pandemic
ngayon parang we learn
how to manage ourselves
first, we learn how to
ensure the safety no just
ourselves but also our
family ganon. So far, di
ko rin alam, I‘m not kind
of happy with this kind
of set up ganon.

157
Q2. How R8: I am aware and Just like previous Increased Socio- Increased Socio- Impacts of Technology Factors affecting
engaged are you engaged to the current respondents, R8 also political political and Digitalization socio-political
to current events events even before the mentions the role of Engagement Engagement as an engagement
now compared to pandemic. The social social media and the existing Personal Factors
pre-pandemic media, especially Twitter virtual setting of the Convenience of personality trait affecting Socio- Current State of
times? Elaborate made me updated to the new normal as engagement due to political Engagement Socio-political
your answer. events happening in both positive influences in digitalization Convenience of Engagement
local and global news. terms of their engagement due to External Factors during the
Salamat, Twitter engagement in Socio-political digitalization affecting Socio- Pandemic
HAHAHAHA political issues these Engagement as a political Engagement
days. habit
Impacts of Pandemic
Presence of to Different Aspects of
Technological Socio-political
Challenges Engagement

- super engaged now Engagement due to Increased Socio-

R9: So yun, uhm…super (stronger) Influence from political
engaged na ako ngayon Peers and Family Engagement
sa mga issues before, + sees the reality
before pa magkaron ng Increased Socio- Increased socio-
pandemic. Mas engaged + helps others engage political political awareness
ako ngayon kesa noon, Engagement
Increased socio-
yun. Syempre nakikita political altruism
na natin yung mga Convenience of
engagement due to and collectivism
ganitong bagay,
mga…uhm…kamalian increased free time
then why not na maging Increased
engaged ka pa, wag mo R10 is firm in their Discipline and Convenience of
sarilihin, kailangan mo convictions that Subservience engagement due to
pang mag-educate ng political engagement career and
ibang tao parang maging is a right and he/she is Increased socio- obligation
engaged din sila sa kung confident to practice political awareness
anong nangyayari sa his/her freedom of Increased Socio-
ating kapaligiran. expression through political
mediums of thought Engagement as an
R10: I can say that I am such as writing for a existing
more engaged now with publication. personality trait
current events because I
write in a publication
(tho I'm always engaged
Increased socio-
158
with social issues political awareness
because, uhm I have the
right to!!!). Increased socio-
political altruism
- more engaged and collectivism
because of issues
R11: I think I became Increased socio-
more engaged to current - incompetency of political
events compared to pre- gov‘t awarenesss
pandemic times kasi
super daming issues sa -PH is more than
bansa, super daming better
nangyayari na hindi
maganda and isa siyang
ano for all the people
especially the youth
ganon…it
became…ah…it made us
realie how
incompetentthe
government we have and
it made me realize na
ayun na we should be
more the this because I
know the Philippines is
better than what is
happening right now.

159
Q3. Off the top of R8: ABS-CBN R8 lists down some of Social Isolation Issues relating to Social Issues Exclusively
your head, what shutdown, Red-tagging the most controversial and Quarantine- the ABS-CBN Domestic Issues
different of students from state issues of the past related Personal Shutdown and Issues on the Justice
pandemic-related colleges and universities, year, mostly hot Issues Freedom of System and Human General Issues
issues* do you Anti-Terror Bill, topics that remained Press/Speech Rights
recall Dolomite Beach, in the news for quite Issues relating to
encountering Mañanita Party of some time in the past Restrictions on Issues on the Issues on Political and
during the year Debold Sinas, Death of few months. Movement and Activist Press Freedom
2020? It can be Sonya and Anton Activity Crackdown and
Red-tagging Issues on Corruption
old news, current Gregorio. and Government
events, or any Public Health Controversy
Issues caused by Expenditure
other timely issues
you can remember the COVID-19 Concerns on
Pandemic Misplaced Issues on Pandemic
the most. and Disaster Response
Government
Online and Priorities and
Distance Learning Issues on Online
- freedom of speech Expenditures Classes
Crisis
- human rights Issues on High- Foreign Affairs Issues
Issues on the profile Quarantine
- Freedom of Government‘s Violations Issues on LGBT+
R9: So yun, ang naiisip Pandemic
ko, ang palaging education Rights
Response Extrajudicial
lumalabas sa isip ko is Killings and
that yung freedom of - culture of impunity
Issues on Labor Police Brutality
speech then yung - police brutality and
killings, human rights Unemployment Issues on the
violation, academic - fake news Activist
freedom, yun yung Issues on Crackdown and
pinakalatest; yung Government Red-tagging
culture ng impunity then Corruption Controversy
police brutality yan yung
mga ganun, fake news. Concerns COVID-19
The respondent, R10, surrounding Misinformation
was very informed on aChina-oriented
issues and was able to Foreign Policy and Issues on LGBT+
list down plentiful Affairs Rights
without much
R10: Omayghad where difficulty. R10 also Extrajudicial Issues relating to
do I start? ATL (Anti- adds a social media Killings and Police COVID-19
Terror Law); UP & PUP hashtag in their Brutality Vaccines
DND Accord; SOGIE response which is
160
Bill; commonly used by Issues relating to Concerns on
online activists and the ABS-CBN Misplaced
Harry Roque's stupid demonstrators Shutdown and Government
remarks; Duterte's showing that R10 has Freedom of Priorities and
vaccination; some affiliation or Press/Speech Expenditures
sympathy towards
Dilawan/DDS; Manila their cause. Issues relating to Concerns
Bay Sands; COVID-19 surrounding a
Vaccines China-oriented
SINOVAC Vaccines in Foreign Policy and
general; PH-China ties; Issues on High- Affairs
profile Quarantine
Travel ban; Violations Issues on
Duque being a Government
Issues related to Corruption
questionable health Pandemic
secretary; Frontliners Extrajudicial
15-B Corruption of Phil Killings and
Issues on the Police Brutality
Health (Never forget); Activist
Killings of activists, Crackdown and Concerns on
minorities and Red-tagging Misplaced
journalists; Controversy Government
Priorities and
Charter Change!!! Expenditures
Acckkk; Duterte Youth;
Issues on the
Mass rally; ...and many Government‘s
more basta Oust Du30 Pandemic
Response
- incompetency of
R11: On top dyan yung gov‘t
pagiging incompetent ng -banning travel to
goverment. Its been a prevent COVID
year since the first Issues on
COVID case entered in Government
-corruption
the Philippines and I Corruption
(PhilHealth)
think that the
incompetence of the Related:
government made us like
-mass testing
161
this right now because if (should‘ve been a top
they engage early , they priority)
start to ban way back or
a year ago…ah…maybe -vaccines (late)
we have prevented the
spread of the COVID- - filipinos losing jobs
Issues on the
19. second is the Government‘s
corruption I think Pandemic
happens and is very Response
timely and relevant, not
just today, last 2020
super daming kurakot
like yung sa PhilHealth Issues relating to
yung 15 billion na hindi COVID-19
naman ginawan ng Vaccines
paraan. So yung related
siguro sa pandemic I
think its more about the
Issues on the
mass testing which
Government‘s
became a big issue
Pandemic
which sould
Response
be…uhm…it should be
the top priority last year Issues on Labor
but Duterte didn‘t realize and
that. I only made him Unemployment
realize only last
December, I think. He
does not have even plans
on vaccine since that
time last year. Tapos
ngayon, super late na
tayo sa vaccination like
si Duque super bobo
niya ganon. They are
very incompetent, I think
that‘s the biggest,
incompetent when it
comes to response to this
pandemic. Super daming
nawalan ng trabaho yet
162
 there are still lockdowns.
I think we are one and
only country with the
longest lockdown,
parang almost a year na
siya this March. Ayun
parang super sad lang
kasi alam ko that we are
better than this.

Q4. As a Gen-Z R8: For me, it is the R8 personally values Social Isolation Issues on the Social Issues Exclusively
voter during the Anti-Terror Bill because the issue of freedom and Quarantine- Activist Domestic Issues
COVID-19 it is unconstitutional and of expression as related Personal Crackdown and Economic Issues
Pandemic, which it violates the section IV he/she raises her Issues Red-tagging General Issues
of the issues you of the bill of rights, the concerns/fears over Controversy Issues on the Justice
just mentioned do right of expression. With being wrongly tagged Issues on the System and Human
you think holds the ATB, everyone's as terrorists. Activist Rights
the most lives are in danger Crackdown and
F of S (freedom of Red-tagging Issues on Political and
significance for because anyone can be Press Freedom
you personally labeled as a terrorist. speech Controversy
and why? Issues on Pandemic
R9: Personally, ang + sociall inclined Issues on Labor
and Issues relating to and Disaster Response
pinakasgnificant dun ay the ABS-CBN
yung freedom of speech *pointless path for Unemployment
voice without f of s Shutdown and
kasi ever since parang Freedom of
face to face super daldal Issues Related to
Economy and Press/Speech
ko na, basta parang
gustong-gusto ko talaga Commerce
when it comes to certain Issues on the
issues na makikipag- Government‘s
debate ka, makikipag- Pandemic
ano ka sa mga friends Response
mo, ganyan-ganyan. And
when that freedom of Extrajudicial
speech is violated kasi Killings and Police
ang sakit sa pakiramdam Brutality
parang…uhm…di ka na
makakapagsalita..parang Issues relating to
your silence na para san the ABS-CBN
pa yung boses mo diba, Shutdown and

163
parang ganun, kung di ka Freedom of
magsasalita about certain Press/Speech
issues like that, yun Based on their Issues on LGBT+
response to this Universal Rights
R10: As a Gen-Z voter, I question, it is Concern for all
think the issue that holds plausible for R10 to Issues
most significance in my be an outspoken ally
personality is SOGIE or a member of the
Bill. I associate this to LGBTQ+ community.
myself because I support He/she holds the issue
the community and just of gender equality
like their colorful flag, it and anti-
represents my discrimination to a
personality. I'm cheerful high degree of
and all just happy. It's importance.
like a rainbow after the
rain, a silver lining; a
hope in trying times.

Issues on the
R11: I think the issue Government‘s
that plays a vital role yan Pandemic
yung pagiging Response
incompetent ng
government kasi it only
ano eh made us realize - incompetent gov‘t
that those who are, those
who sit in that place -realization of
right now in the replacing/ousting
government, they should
*―kung namulat ka sa
be replaced. Parang ano
katotohanan ay
nga lang eh, kung pwede
kasalanan na ang
lang yung immediate
pumikit‖
way, I-oust natin ganon.
Kasi sobrang lakas ng
impact na ginawa nila
like affected lahat yet
164
 sila…tayo ang nagsu-
suffer, pero sila
nagpapakasasa dun sa
ayun, dun sa kung ano
yung posisyon nila
ngayon kasi wala silang
ginagawa. Sobrang
incompetent to the point
na kung pwede lang
ulitin yu ano eh, yung
magrebolusyon ganun
kasi sobrang grabe na.
Parang ano nga eh totoo
yung ―kung namulat ka
sa katotohanan ay
kasalanan na ang
pumikit‖ ayun parang it
made us realize na
sobrang important nung
issue na yun, yung
pagiging incompetent to
the point na we want to
oust them, we want
replace them. Kasi
sobrang daming mas
better sa kanila, sobrang
daming mas better na
mag-guide sa Pilipinas ,
yung pumalit sa kanilang
lahat na nasa taas parang
ayun.

Q5. As a Gen-Z R8: The ABS-CBN R8 is worried about Issues on Issues relating to Social Issues
voter during the shutdown has a massive the current state of Polarization and the ABS-CBN
COVID-19 effect on the country. It press freedom in the Political Shutdown and Economic Issues Concern over
Pandemic, which affected the local news country with the Differences Freedom of Exclusively
of the issues you especially during the effective shutdown of Press/Speech Issues on the Justice Domestic Issues
just mentioned do flooding of the Cagayan ABSCBN, Public Health System and Human
you think holds River. It also silenced Issues caused by Rights Concern over
the most the press to critique the - culture of impunity the COVID-19 General Issues
Issues on Political and
165
significance for government and + justice Pandemic Press Freedom
the country in prevented the nation
general and why? from knowing the truth + needs Issues on the Issues on Pandemic
#DefendPressFreedom responsibility, great Government‘s and Disaster Response
servant Pandemic Extrajudicial
R9: Uhm…for most Response Killings and Issues on Online
significant for country - Police brutality Police Brutality Classes
yung culture of impunity Issues Related to
nga tsaka yung police + violence Economy and
brutality. Pero mostly Commerce
+ suffering people
yung culture ng impunity
where in lahat ng Issues on Labor
nagkakasala especially and
yung nasa posisyon ay Unemployment
hindi napapanagot at Issues on Crime
hindi sila naghohold
accountable like that. Online and
Kasi as a leader kasi Distance Learning
talaga, when you Crisis
become a leader, kasi
you hold
responsibility…you are
responsible for
everything, lahat ng
ginagawa ng
nasasakupan mo and
hindi mo dapat
lagi…hindi mo dapat
sinisisi sa nasasakupan
mo sa mga members mo
yung kasalanan na
ginawa nila kundi dapat
ikaw ang aako nun that
is a great leader is.
Tapos yung police
brutality, super super na
kasi yung…parang Universal
masyado nang napalaki Concern for all
yung ulo ng afp, pnp Issues
ganun to just shoot

166
people parang ganun. To
just use force, use
violence against people
na nagdidisagree sa mga
ideas nila, sa mga beliefs R10 stresses that all
nila, ganun. issues are of
importance to the Issues on
R10: This one, I think country and that all Polarization and
that every issue holds must be addressed. Political
significance for the However, he/she also Differences
country but then for the raises the view that
sake of the question, I one of the biggest
think it would be the threats to our country
separation between right now is the issue
"Dilawan and DDS". of political
People shouldn't make polarization.
these stereotypes. We Issues on the
should always be for the Government‘s
Filipino people Pandemic
regardless of their Response
political stance. But the
sad reality is that we are
divided with our -incompetency during
perceptions and pandemic
ideologies. And because Issues Related to
of that, the whole -suffering of Filipinos Economy and
country becomes a big (big impact) Commerce
joke; the system, the
government, the people.
We're a big circus.

R11: Same lang eh, sa

pagiging incompetent
with response to the
pandemic kasi ano eh
hindi lang naman ito
usapan tunghkol sa sarili
mo, it also talks about
lives of billions of
Filipinos. Sobrang, yung

167
 economy natin nagshrink
na parang highest rate na
diba sa buong…sobrang
laki ng utang ng
Pilipinas ultimo parang
ano nga eh, halimbawa
in the future sobrang
magsusuffer pa rin yung
next generation para lang
mabayaran yung utang
na yan. Yung pagiging
incompetent nila eh
hindi lang kasi about yun
sakin or yung opinion
ko, sobrang dami nang
nagsu-suffer lalo na
yung mahihirap tsaka
yung ano yung usapin
nga sa utang ng Pilipinas
so sobrang laking imapct
nun sa bansa natin kasi
san napupunta yun, sa
sobrang laki nun wala
namang napupuntahan
diba up until now so
dapat toyng magworry
talaga.

Q6. How would R8: My parents and
you describe your relatives taught me the
political importance of being
views/perspective patriotic and ever since, I
s? became a critique of the
government at a young
age. I was never a
Dilawan nor a DDS and
I critique the government
for the Filipino people
and not to any political
R8 disassociates Apolitical/Apatheti Nationalistic Voter Politically
himself/herself from c Views Disenfranchisement Disenfranchised
political affiliations Views/Perspectiv
while claiming that Generally Views/Perspectives es
he/she can remain Confused or Lacks within the Political
critical to any Direction Spectrum Politically
government without Engaged Views/
Political Empathy Unpolarized and Views/Perspectives
taking any sides. Perspectives
Moderate Views irrespective of the
Independent
Political Spectrum
Perspectives
- liberal.
Unpolarized and
168
parties. - open to ideas, hears, Moderate Views
and listens
R9: I define it naman as Libertarian
liberal pa rin. So yun, - perspectives first,
liberal pa rin, yun lang then opinion Politcal Liberal
open sa mga ideas then Pragmatism
open sa mga ideas.
Palaging Facts-based
Political Views Political Empathy
pinapakinggan…yung
iba‘t ibang sides then Politically
kapag may bagpng issue Disenfranchised
na lilitaw, titingin muna
ako ng iba‘t ibang
perspective before ako
magcome-up kung ano
R10 is confident that Outspoken
yung side ko, ganun.
they are vocal in their
R10: I'm very vocal with politics. He/she also
my political views. As refrains from over- Non-fanatical
you can see from my fanaticizing or
previous answers, I'm idolizing any specific
definitely not an idol of politician while still
any public servant. As I supporting them if
said, we should be for necessary.
the Filipinos and not the
leaders. Yes, I have
leaders to support but
that doesn't mean I
idolize them. - sides what is right
Views based on
-shows care for Categorical
country Imperatives
R11: I always side with
what is right. It is just
right parang hindi naman
ako si Roque na
babayaran yung dignidad
mo, papalit-palit.
Balimbing siya. Ayun
parang…kasi parang Polarized Views
yung political views mo,
169
it also shows how much
you cared for this
country like parang kung
DDS ka edi ok di na kita
friend, ganun ako like I
will not talkn to you
because how come
parang di ka nagbabago
despite of all the
happenings here parang
hindi pa ba enough yung
mga nangyayari para
ma-change yung view
mo. So parang I always
side with what is right
ganun parang alam kong
mali ito. Parang
nagtataka ako parang
yung iba alam naman
nilang si Duterte ano
sobrang incompetent
pero patuloy nilang
sinusuportahan so di ko
din alam per I always
side with what is right,
ith the truth ganon.
Parang…kasi Pilipinas
yung nakasalalay eh
parang yung lahat ng tao
dito na naninirahan
parang ayun affected
talaga so dapat dun tayo
sa tama lagi.

170
Q7. Looking R8: The current The respondent Resentment Reassessment and Growing Disapproval Mentality
back, how did government policies and makes a reference to towards People Raising of One‘s and Resentment Change
these issues incumbents made me the highly coveted with Contrasting Voting Standards
change your raised my standards in Miss Universe crown Political Views Changes towards Political
political choosing the right leader and believes that the Reaffirmation and One’s Socio-political Antipathy
perspectives, for our country. Kung elections should have Resentment Strengthening of Engagement and
especially on gaano kataas ang similarly high stakes. towards the Already Held Perspectives
current standards natin para sa Government and Beliefs/Perspectiv
government Miss Universe, ganoon its Leaders es
policies and din dapat sa mga lider at
incumbents? mamumuno sa Broadening of
pamahalaan. Political
Views/Perspectives
R9: Hm…parang ano
naman eh, hindi siya Unsatisfaction
nagbago. Meron naman towards Status Quo
nabago like parang for Increasingly
exapmle sa issue nung Outspoken
police brutality, - changes perpective
Views/Perspectives
uhm…because of that on people (law
certain issue, madaming enforcers especially) / Increased Sense of
ngang pulis ang nagamit gov‘t Responsibility
ng violence parang hindi towards Issues
lahat parang lahat ng
pulis nageneralize ko na
as brutal. Yun lang
naman yung issue na
naano ako na nagchange
sa perspective ko na ano
na ng lahat, trait na ng
Resentment
lahat nung militar, police
towards Police and
basta mga law enforcers
Military
na parang nakakatakot
Authorities
na sila for me, ganun.

R10: Well really I just

became more angry and
agitated. Even before
these issues arose, I'm R10 believes that the
Resentment
not pro with the current state of our towards the
country only makes
171
government. I'm not in him/her more Government and
favor of this admin and resentful of the its Leaders
they give me more current administration
reasons to continue that. and incumbents. Reaffirmation and
Strengthening of
Already Held
Beliefs/Perspectiv
R11: Did not change, -did not change es
because my views on (same) but stronger
those issues parang ano Reaffirmation and
eh are the same lang. -urging of beating Strengthening of
Naging strong pa nga eh incompetent leaders Already Held
kasi alam mo yung may silently Beliefs/Perspectiv
gustong gusto ka talaga es
ipaglaban up to the point *power of voice
na ayun you them talaga
na bumagsak kasi its the
only thing you can do for
the country. Make them Radicalization
suffer for all the things
they did. Parang kasi
yung iba sobrang halang
na nung kaluluwa ganon
parang gusto mo talaga
pabagsakin. So it made
me only….parang my
political perspectives
only became stronger
than before. Nandun
yung ano mo eh yung
urge mo to beat them
silently siguro. Di man
tayo yung
pinakamakapangyarihan
like them pero with our
own voices can make a
change.

172
Q8. Looking R8: The pandemic R8 believes that due Voter Disaffection Voter Disaffection Unpopularity of Certain Positive Changes
forward, in what exposed the to the negative Towards Older and Towards Demographics of to Overall
ways do you think incompetence and the performance of the Traditional Incompetent Candidates/Politicians Outlook for the
will these issues unpreparedness of the government during Politicians Incumbent Among Voters Elections
affect your government and these this pandemic, it will Officials
mindset or overall issues will have an effect also have a negative Distrust Towards Voter Responsibility Negative Changes
outlook about the regarding the 2022 impact on their Politicians‘ Words Increased to Overall
2022 National National Elections. I am election chances and Promises Confidence Eagerness towards Outlook for the
Elections? Why? grateful that the Gen Z's together with the towards Fellow Elections Elections
are engaged in the issues changing political Increased Voters that they
and are aware of the landscape brought by Confidence will Vote Wisely
events happening in the the demographic shift towards Fellow
country. Our generation towards younger Voters that they
demand for change, the voters. will Vote Wisely
real change. Voter Disaffection
Towards Voter Disaffection
Incompetent Towards
R9: Hm…syempre Incumbent Politicians with
meron din namn siguro Officials Law Enforcement
na law enforcers na or Military
tatakbo sa 2022 national Voter Disaffection Backgrounds
elections maybe there Towards Political
are factors na hindi ko Dynasties
sila iboboto like magdo- - fact-check Increased
double check, magfa-fact Confidence
check ako sa - caution towards Self that
backgrounds nila pero They will Vote
you know cautious ako *because of bg
(background) before Wisely
masyado especially sa
mga law enforcers na Striving to become
tatakbo kasi nga yun, an Informed Voter
they have this
background. Tapos bakit Increased
pa sila kailangan Vigilance and
tumakbo kung ganun na Keener Voting
pala yung background R10 seems to suggest Standards
nila kung bad na pala a more radical course
yung background nila, of action, even going Increased
as far as inciting Eagenerness Voter Disaffection
like that.
revolutionary change towards the Towards Far-Right
173
R10: These issues as the alternative if Elections Politicians
should be a stepping we don‘t make the
ground for us; it should ―right choices‖ in the Voter Disaffection
be the reasons why we next elections. Towards Far-Right
should oust the fascist Politicians Radicalized and
and elect the right Revolutionary
people. Yet if we don't Negative Outlook
make the right choices Expectations
and if the elected Towards Election
officials are no different Outcome
with the previous ones
then it's time for
revolution - realize to be
stronger

-comeback stronger
R11: These whole or all
the issues that happened - electing who is Positive
at this moment or last right, can lead, and Expectations
year, ayun as I said in deserving Towards Election
number seven it made Outcome
me realize na we should
always come back
stronger. Kung di man
natin mapabagsak
ngayon, edi bawian natin
sa 2022 like if we can
oust them then we can
get our revenge through
doing what is right.
Electing the serving
officers rather electing
officers who are…who
have the love for the
people not just for the
money or anything that
will make them become
evil. As well as electing
officers na deserving
talaga in all ways

174
 because nakasalalay dun
yung buhay ng buong
Pilipinas.

Q9. In light of R8: As a youth voter, I R8 tends to have a Election of More Principled Voting Voting-Related
your most aim for change and more progressive Youth Leaders Goals Goals
important issues reform. I also aim to be outlook for the Advance the
and the upcoming more engaged for the political future of the Exercise of Voting Progressive Pragmatic Voting Election
elections, what do upcoming elections and country. Rights Agenda Goals Outcome-Related
you aim to be vigilant to what the Goals
achieve as a youth government do. Return to Increased Civic Principled Election-
voter in this Normalcy/Resolvin Involvement in the Outcome Goals
country? R9: Uhm…youth vote? g the Pandemic‘s Elections
Achieve? Wait…parang Crises Pragmatic Election-
ano lang naman eh, Hold the Outcome Goals
parang gusto ko for the Motivate and Government and
- educate family Inspire Other its Leaders
upcoming elections, (minimum group)
before the elections Youth to Vote Accountable
parang gusto ko lang - then community Be an Informed
ma-educate din yung (maximum group) Voter
family ko and maeducate Be an Informed
din yung…parang yung - vote right, vote Elect Capable Voter
family ko, yun pa lang responsibly for better Leaders
yung minimum, parang PH
magsimula ka muna sa Contribute to
maliit, parang m- Creating Good
convince mo muna yung Governance
small group mo na they
have to vote right for the Motivate and
upcoming elections then Inspire Other
yung maximum mo na Youth to Vote
yung community mo na
which in my case, my
case pala ha, yung
comunity ko na yung
parang yung buong
barangay ko, pwede
nang barangay yung ano

175
na yung isang street
namin na parang ma-
convinve nila na they
need to vote right para di
na maging ganito yung Represent the
buhay hindi..uhm…in Youth in Key
the upcoming years, Issues
ganun.

R10: As a youth voter of R10 aims that through

this country, I aim to participation in the
amplify the voice of the elections, he/she
people. Not just the becomes an agent of
youth but everyone change and will help Advance the
especially the farmers, to better represent the Progressive
minorities and the poor. I needs of the youth Agenda
aim to change the system and empower them.
and leave a legacy in the
country; that as I fight,
we fight, the next
generation will wake up
in a more progressive
and united Philippines.

-better future (of PH)

R11: I‘m achieving for a Contribute to
better future for all of us. -competent gov‘t Creating Good
A better governance, an Governance
incompetent one, a -register first for
competent one pala better change
rather. I‘m aiming for
rather yun especially the +encourage fellow
youth to register that we voters
can…kasi parang maunti
pa lang yung mga /// *side with right
registered voters so ayun always
if it would be better as Motivate and
early as they can, Inspire Other
magparehistro na ganun. Youth to Vote
I will encourage them
176
 ganun kasi yung issue
kasing ganun hindi lang
ngayon ‗to eh, it will
matter in the future. So it
would be better if as
much as possible as
earlier as we can…we
can vote in the future so
dapat lagi tayong
ano…laging open-
minded. Lagi tayong
mamulat sa katotohanan
kasi yun yung mahalaga
ngayon, ‗wag magbulag-
bulagan, masilaw sa
pera, ‗wag magpabili ng
boto tsaka always side
with the truth always
ayun always.

Q10. In general, R8: Today, the Filipino
what comes into nation is divided because
your mind when of the political parties.
you think of the Due to the issues, I am
upcoming really grateful that the
elections? youth realized the
Describe your importance of suffrage.
expectations or Because of this, I expect
personal feelings more from the youth to
about it, if any. make a change because
our generation is more
aware of the issues. We
are also capable of
breaking the wrong
norms of the society.
R9: Uhm, to be honest,
natatakot ako sa 2022
elections eh. Kasi hindi
R8 stresses that Polarized Political Polarized Political Election Outcome- Positive
polarization remains a Landscape Landscape Related Expectations Expectations
pressing issue during
election seasons. Empty Promises Voting-Related Negative
However, R8 remains from Politicians Expectations Expectations
optimistic and
hopeful in terms of Political Cynicism
Empowered Youth
the youth‘s role in the Optimism with Participation in the
upcoming elections. Regards to Voter Elections
Responsibility
Empowered Youth
Participation in the
Elections
Optimism with
Regards to Genuine Fear and
- scared Election Security Pessimism
towards Election
+ results of influence Optimism with Outcomes
177
lang…oo, oo parang of current Regards to
merong mga woke na administration Election Outcome
naniniwala
sa…magiging ok sa * as long as we Loss of Confidence
2022 elections pero educate in the Elections
parang totoo naman na
as long as we educate Hopeful.
each other, we educate
those people n a
naniniwala pa rin sa
president ngayon
and…uhm…kasi ayon, Pessimism
kaya naman kaso Towards Election
nakakatakot lang kasi Security
feeling ko talaga
dumadami na yong
…uhm…yjng nilalagay
ni Duterte sa…uhm…sa
posisyon. So kung
madaming naniniwala sa
kay Duterte dun sa
Malacanang but ano pa
kaya yung kaya nilang
gawin sa election. Also
there is also ano…yung
issue na
chacha…babaguhin
yung ating form of Fear against
government so kaya threats to
nakakatakot talaga kung Democracy
may 2022 elections pa
ba o wala na, ganun.
Pero hoping pa rin,
R10 presents a more
hopeful na meron pa ring pessimistic outlook
2022 elections. for the elections and
R10: When the thought believes that there is a
of the upcoming possibility that
elections come into my another government
similar to the current Genuine Fear and
mind, I think of the word Pessimism
administration will
178
"cycle". A cycle of just replace it, thereby towards Election
tyranny and dynasty creating a ―cycle.‖ Outcomes
from a Duterte to the
next Duterte. Yet I hope Scared. Empowered Youth
the youth will be wise Participation in the
enough to surpass this -influence of current Elections
(ofc we are!!!) administration

- think of best

R11: To be honest, I‘m - to give knowledge,

quite scared with the 2022 elections
upcoming Fear against
elections…uhm…becaus threats to
e ano eh like yung sa Democracy
side nung president natin
ngayon na sobrang Genuine Fear and
strong nung ano niya up Pessimism
to the point na di ko towards Election
alam kung mananalo ba Outcomes
yung mga gusto natin.
Pero as of the moment, I
only think of course, of
the best parang…parang Optimism with
naging optimistic lang Regards to
ako. We can make a Election Outcome
change right now
because may two years
pa, may one and a half
year pa to encourage
other people to make
them see how our
government right now,
how incompetent they
are and sobrang
…ah…sobrang, kung
Loss of
ako yung tatanungin
Confidence in the
gustong gusto ko na I-
Elections
oust si Duterte. If only I
could have the power. So

179
 ayun parang di na ako
makapaghintay sa 2022.
kasi gusto ko yung
feeling nung katulad sa
US, so why not sa
Pilipinas diba if only it
could happen.

Q11. In what way R8: The issues have a R8 believes that the Causes Further Positive Impacts Short-term
do you think will lasting effect on the issues will have long- Division and Impacts to the
these issues Filipinos especially now term impacts on the Polarization Widespread Negative Impacts Political
impact the future that we have massive future of our country, Mindset Change Landscape
political landscape problems caused by the especially in tandem Changes to among Filipinos
in this country and pandemic. Like I said, with the current Elections and Long-term
the outcomes of the pandemic revealed coronavirus pandemic Campaign Norms Increased Impacts to the
the 2022 National the incompetence of the due to the Transparency Political
Elections? current administration Coronavirus Landscape
and several realized that
the Filipinos deserve More Emphasis on
more and we deserve Platforms
better. Addressing the
COVID-19
Revolution. People Pandemic
R9: Hm…siguro ano power
…siguro kung ano…ano
lang ha opinion… kung Create a Political
+leaders do not learn Landscape of Good
siguro magkaroon ng
Oust Duterte movement +history repeating Governance
ganyan, yung magkaroon Increased Heightened
ng Accountability for Insurgency and
revolutionary…revolutio Politicians Revolutionary
n sa EDSA ganun parang Tendencies
matatakot na yung Cynical Political
masusunod na Landscape
mamumuno like that
pero pa rin…hindi pa rin Systematic Change
kasi eh kung
magkakaroon ng Oust
Duterte movement, it
will be the third EDSA
movement power. Third

180
people power na yun
ibig sabihin, ikatlong
beses na nagkaroon ng
people power at hindi pa
rin natututo ang mga
namumuno natin. So, R10 is hopeful that
ano lang siya eh, cycle, these issues may
parang may namumuno, change some minds
oo parang repeating especially of the more
history pa rin pero sana traditionally
naman, sana naman supportive base of the
mabago na siya, ganun. current
R10: These issues will administration.
definitely have a great
impact. Those people
who supports Duterte
will now see his true dirt
through the pandemic
and this will result for
people not voting for a
Duterte anymore. Many
will also become vocal
and woke.
Increased
Accountability for
Politicians
-big impact (across Increased Support
world, OFW) on how for Progressive
R11: Sa tingin ko yung
PH is so down Ideals
issues na nangyayari
ngayon sobrang ano -many changes in
naging…laking impact political views
niya sa hindi lang dito sa
Quezon, it happens
across not just in the
Philippines din because
aware din naman ang Widespread
mga OFWs sa ibang Mindset Change
bansa how we are among Filipinos
so…how we are so down
181
right now. So tingin ko
hindi pa naman huli para
sa mga DDS na
magbago pero feel ko
ano siguro may na-
change yung political
views, siguro mas
namulat na yung iba
ganun. So I think its the
only way on how they
can correct or do what is
right for them kasi if
they continue to
support…uh…officers or
those who are in the
Malacanang. It think
mas maganda kung yung
impact ngayon ng issues
na ito sobrang nabago
yung…uhm…political
views ng tao kasi for
example, may tito ako na
super supporter ni
Duterte pero ngayon ay
parang nababago na
yung ano niya kasi dapat
daw nag-ban na lang last
year, bakit yung
dolomite beach yung
pinaglaanan ng milyung-
milyong pera instead na
nilaan na lang sa
vaccines. So ganun
parang ang daming
nagbago ganun I Increased
think…but I want to be Transparency
grateful for this
pandemic because dati
pa naman, without this
pandemic they also
182
 shows how incompetent
they are. Siguro yung
pandemic yung nag-
expose lang talaga kung
gaano sila ka-
incompetent with their
issues so it has great
impact talaga sa national
elections.

Q12. Taking into R8: a.) Personality R8 has very high Progressive Lawful/ Progressive Values Stance on Issues
account the issues standards for a Constitutional
that are important I would like to see a political candidate Politicians with the Personality Traits Electability
to you, what public servant who and adds that he/she Highest Chance of
characteristics upholds the constitution would definitely not Winning Performance Performance
would you now that no one is above the vote for a candidate Transparent
law, who is accountable, Transparent Experience/Backgrou
like to see in an from a dynastic Not a member of a nd
elected public transparent, and background.
competent enough to Non-traditional Political Dynasty
servant such as the Politician
President? serve the people.

b.)Experience/Backgrou Serious or
nd Determined
a. in terms of their Younger Has Experience in
personality traits For the presidency, I Politics or
would vote for the Intellectual Governance
b. in terms of their candidate who has
experience or experience in the Has Experience in Has aPolitics-
background national public service Politics or Related
and has an educational Governance Educational
c. in terms of their background in law, background
stance on issues governance or politics. Decisive
In addition, I would like
to see a public servant Has aPolitics-
who is not from a Related
political family because Educational
it may result to a background
dynasty.
Charismatic
c.) Stance on Issues Social Democratic
Patriotic

183
When it comes to the Accomplished with
stance on issues, I am Good Track
looking for a candidate Record
who supports the
democracy and justice; a. Compassionate Has a Public Has Science-based
who is humane and has Health Related Leadership
+ feels the people of Educational
integrity at all times. PH
Lastly, a leader who background
believes in science. + sees the people Committed to
itself Protecting Human
R9: a.) In terms of Relatable
personality traits, edi -determination of Rights
syempre they should be leading
compassionate. They Feminist
should be Anti-Fascist
compassionate…dapat
nararamdaman nila b. -fixed by: Selfless/Has No
yung…uhm…paghihirap Personal Agenda
- experience of
nung tao hindi lang sa
efficient leading a Non-Populist
mga naghaharing uri,
mass
mga mayayaman ganun.
Dapat pumupunta din Anti-Capitalist
- stand on their on for
sila sa mga most the people
vunerable people , yun
nga yunga mga nasa +solid determination Serious or
ibaba ng hierarchy
+proves they can Determined
especially sa mga
magsasaka, yang ganyan
and yun lang naman +feels the people
compassion. Tapos
syempre dapat
determined sila maglead. c. Stands on their own
Kasi kung determined sight? Perspective
sila maglead, kaya
naman nila, ganun. + not playing safe
b.) Well for me, + sees perspective of
naniniwala naman ako ALL
na wala yun sa
experience eh. Wala sa

184
experience yung pagli- Has Experience in
lead as long as Politics or
determined ka nga Governance
pero…pero oo nga pero
iba yan, we‘re talking
about the national, we‘re
talking about the
national level iniisp ko
pala parang ano
lang…parang small level
lang. So going to
national level edi
syempre dapat you
should have a fixed
experience, background
tapos madami kang
experience
tapos…uhm…hindi
naman sa madaming
experience…may
experience ka, may
background ka sa pagli-
lead ng lmalaking
nasasakupan syempre.
Hindi naman kailangan
laging umasa sa mga ano
eh…anong tawag
dun…diba may mga
anong tawag dun, yung
nag-ga-guide sayo.
Kapag president ka
parang may nag-ga-
guide sayo…basta
napapanood ko yun eh
parang may guidance
sila. Hindi mo naman
palagi kailangan yung
tulong nila, dapat ikaw
rin mismo, yung
creativeness mo, yung
185
kung gaano mo
nararamdaman yung tao
mo,yun. Kailangan mo
ng experience ang
backgorund, yung From the
background mo naman Working/Middle
ay…yung background Class
mo naman is ano…wala
nafifeel ko lang is hindi
ganun kayaman, hindi
ganun kataas agad yung
na-attain mo, mas
maganda siguro mamuno
yung mga middle class
na tao where in
Has a Hard and
naramdaman na niya
Firm Stance on
yung paghihirap ng mga
Key Issues
nasasakupan niya para
hindi lang talaga sa mga
mayayaman, sa mga
naghaharing uri yung
iyong…pagkabias niya
ganun.
R10 believes that
c.) Sympre malakas
he/she will support a
yung stance nila dun sa
candidate that puts
certain issue. Kung no
the interest of the
edi no, kung yes edi yes.
―masses‖ first at all
Hindi yung play safe.
times
Pero yun nga kelangan
pa rin I-research,
kelangan pa rin humanap
ng ibang ideas and
perspectives bago ka
gumawa ng decision for
yourself ganun pero Lawful/
dapat yung mga Personality traits Constitutional
nilalabas na statements,
-love for the people
yung mga nilalabas na
stand is may pangil sana, -serves people with
186
yung maiintindihan ng love Patriotic
mga tao kung san ka
talaga lulugar at hindi -handle emotion
sila malilito na parang (work separate to
hindi sila playsafe personal life)
statemnet, ganun.
*professional in
R10: Actually, there are serving the country
Patriotic
certain qualifications for
being a President
according to the Background/experien
constitution. Yet, what I ce
want to see in a public
servant is really -alam ang ginagawa
SERVICE for the
people. The masses first -concrete ang plans
before wealth, power and executes
and money.
-manages work
R11: a.) Ako, I always
choose someone na ano
have the love for the
Stance on issues Works Well Under
people of course, pero
hindi naman to the point -alam ang tama at Pressure
na nagpapakitang tao. mali
Ano yung alm mong
napanalo nila yung puso * on diff, kind of
ng taumabayan talaga issues
without even pretending
like they always serve *hindi nagbubulag-
the people with ayun bulagan
with love syempre, kung
gaano nila kamahal yung -firm.
taumbayan. Ah,
personality traits din
yung they can handle
emotions like they can
manage manage their
emotions when it comes
to work and when it

187
comes to their personal
issues. Parang they
won‘t combine the two
because when you‘re
working you should
know how to balance it, Has Experience in
when you‘re working Politics or
you have to know how to Governance
manage yourself
especially
because…especially
because in terms
of…uhm…serving the
whole country because Has Great Political
malaking effect if Capital
ipagco-combine yung
dalawa. So ayun,
managing emotions,
ayun.

b.) Siguro yung someone

na hindi naman subok na
pero knows how to ayun
parang alam niya yung
ginagawa niya. He…he
or she have plans, may
plano na agad…concrete
plans hindi tulad nung
isa dyan na… ayun
parang you should look
for someone na who
can…who can execute
the plans because it is
important to have plans
may patutunguhan. So
yung someone na na-
experience na yung
ganun, they know how to Has a Hard and
manage different Firm Stance on
activities…uh…different

188
 works, ayun. Key Issues

c.) Uhm, If I were to

choose siguro yung
someone na alam kung
ano yung tama o mali,
that‘s the only thing that
matters kasi if someone
knows how to
distinguish what is right
and what is wrong
especially on different
kinds o f issues siguro
mas…siguro dun tayo sa
hindi nagbubulag-
bulagan sa issues, hindi
bayaran, hindi rin
balimbing ganun. He or
she should be firm on
what he or she stand for
because that really plays
a vital role kasi kung
hindi ka firm then what
happens next? So dapat
firm lagi sa issues.

Q13. Again taking R8: I would like to see R8 is looking forward Farmer Assistance Job Growth and Economy Broad Platforms
into account the platforms on economic that many issues Employment
issues that are growth, on how will they especially concerning Platforms Ensuring Health Specific Policies
important to you, revive lose of jobs and the economy, Greater Civil GDP Growth
what platforms or the negative GDP. healthcare, climate Liberties Education
policies would Inclusive healthcare change, and Universal
Platforms Healthcare Governance
you like to see programs are also one of discrimination will be
proposed on the the programs that I am at center stage in the Addressing Wealth
Inequality Environment
table come this anticipating for because next elections.
2022? Why? healthcare in the Reform on the Laws
Philippines is only for Educational
the privileged. This Society
System
shows that proper
healthcare services in Platforms

189
our country is still Addressing Platforms
inaccessible for many. Inflation Addressing
Lastly, I am looking Climate Change
forward to policies that Platforms
will address the Addressing Red
environmental issues Tape and
- pilipino muna Bureaucracy
such as global warming
because the Philippines + give prioritization Passing of the
is prone to different Job Growth and
to PH Employment SOGIE Bill
calamities caused by
climate change. (Also, Better Economic
pass ADB now kasi it's opportunitites
been long overdue -education
#PassSOGIEBillNow) Increasing the
+free and quality (not
a privilege) Minimum Wage
R9: Huh…siguro guso
ko na rin, gusto ko na More funding for
*support Filipino
makita yung ano…yung the Health Sector
students
policies na Pilipino
muna kasi parang *domino effect on the More funding for
naneneglect na yun power of knowledge the Education
especially sa regime na Sector
‗to like parang hindi
na…parang second class Platforms
citizen na tayo dito, oo, Addressing the
second option na tayo Public health crisis
dito na sa sarili nating due to COVID-19
bansa like oo, sobrang
Platforms
sakit talaga na maging
Addressing Illegal
second option, totoo
Mining
naman. So gusto ko
naman…ano naman mga Platforms
Pilipino yung unahin, Addressing
Pilipino naman yung Government
bigyan pansin and hindi Reform on the
Corruption Educational
yung mga foreigners,
yun. So dun talaga ako System
Repeal of the Anti-
eh, ever since naging Terror Law
advocate ako, I‘m for the
education. The free, Passing of the

190
quality and accessible SOGIE Bill
education for all. And
hindi lang…kasi,
nowadays nga, lalo na
ngayong online class,
education is a privilege
na especially hindi na
niya sinasang-ayunan
yung
mahihirap…uhm…ang Return to Face-
sinasang-ayunan na lang To-Face Classes
nila ay may kaya though
sasabihin natin na
resourceful ang ga
Filipino pero parang iba
pa rin eh, parang mali pa
rin. Marami pa ring mga
bata ang di makapag-aral
lalo na ngayon…ever
since naman na marami
pa ring tao na di
makapag-aral pero lalo
ngayon na pandemic, we
switched from normal
face to face to online Job Growth and
classes na ginamitan pa Employment
ng technology whoch
hindi na nga afford ng Platforms
iba, madami nang Addressing Mental
natanggalan ng trabaho, Health
madami ang nag-suicide
na mga bata kasi hindi
na kaya eh…so marami
na ring nagdrop-out.
Marami na ring nagfile
ng absent so why not
yun platform ng mga
mamumuno is ibigay
muna sa education, yung
knowledge kasi, yung
191
education…yun yung
one thing na dapat
makuhan nung mga bata
para paglaki nila yung
mga bata naman yung R10 is looking for
tutulong sa bayan, accountability in
government officials Passing of the
ganun, gamit yung SOGIE Bill
knowledge nila. in addition to hoping
that bills related to
antidiscrimination be Platforms Against
R10: I would like to see Charter Change
the certain issues be given priority in the
opposed by the next next elections. R10 Platforms
President and he/she will also calls for ―fixing‖ Addressing
not to the same things the charter change Government
again. Make the SOGIE issue Corruption
bill a law, fix the Charter
Change, let officials
from PhilHealth be Policies:
accountable and many
more. -responding to Platforms
corruption Addressing
R11: I think yung sa
policies…uh…I‘m *fairness of justice Government
looking forward sa how Corruption
they will or how they Platforms:
will respond to the
corruption issues -health and safety
happened from the 2020,
*give focus
not just in 2020 but in
the previous years up *managed funding
until now the next years. Reform on the
Tsaka siguro sa policies Justice System
rin, yung…ang hirap eh
parang…I‘m looking (good interview)
forward dun sa thought
na when it comes
into…ano ba‘to…laws
and rules, dapat fair lang
lahat, mahirap man o
mayaman kasi like last

192
year, sila Koko Pimentel
lumabag sa
protocols…hindi naman
parang walang nangyari.
Kapag mahihirap,
lumabag, kulong agad. Platforms
So focusing more Addressing the
fair…ah…fair justice Public health crisis
siguro. Ayun tapos sa due to COVID-19
platforms naman, I‘m
looking forward sa more
focusing sa health and
safety kasi…tsaka yung
pagpapatupad ng mga
batas kasi ang alam ko
nung mga…di ko alam
More funding for
yung year pero nagpasa
the Health Sector
si Merriam Santiago
about sa pandemic pero
anong nngyari satin
ngayon. It would be Platforms
better if we give more Defunding the
focus in health and Police
safety. Tsaka yung
funding din yun, sa
platforms din yung
funding sa health. Hindi
yung funding na sa mga
pulis na…awan ko na
lang…ang daming
nagsasabi na defund the
PNP. Ayun siguro dapat
magfocus talaga sa
health and safety din
kasi since hindi natin
alam kung may COVID
pa sa 2022. so focusing
more in health and safety
of this country.

193
Fourth Cycle of Data Analysis (Advanced Coding)
*Respondents R12 and Respondent R13 are 20-21 year olds.
Questions Responses Memoing Sub-Theme
Analysis Constant Comparison

Codes from last Codes from this Concepts Categories

cycle/s cycle

Q1. Describe R12: Ano R12 felt sad due Sanguine Attitudes Undergoing Optimism and Positive Two
your experiences ngayong to the fact that In Light of Culture Shock Resilience Experiences facetedness
so far during this pandemic ever since Difficult Situations of
pandemic. syempre ano pandemic came Sanguine Attitudes General affliction Negative pandemic
mahirap kasi many thing have Resilience In Light of Experiences experiences
daming change and she/he Difficult Situations
nagbago di did not exepect it Personal Affliction
Exploration and
natin alam but the respondent Making use of situational
hindi natin is thankful that adjustment
Available
inexpect yung his/her family is
mga nangyari still complete and Opportunities
Socio-political
saka it didn‘t affect Engagement
malungkot them so much. Undergoing
pero syempre Culture Shock Societal Socio-political
masaya pa rin R13 believes that Frustration Disenchantment
kasi compliance to Societal
government Frustration increased Exploration and self-
magkakasama
policies is inclination towards improvement
pa rin kaming
possible even if Emotional Socio-political
pamilya lahat
he/she criticizes Frustration engagement
kami anu wala
hindi na them at times.
increased
apektohan ng The respondent
inclination towards
pandemic na generally
Socio-political
nangyari. describes their
engagement
pandemic
194
 experience as Keeping up with
some sort of the Digital
personal wake up transformation of
call to the reality society
R13: Para sa faced by our
aking country today. Cynicism and
karanasan disenchantment
ngayong
pandemya ay
naging mulat
lalo ang aking
mga mata
tungkol sa
usapin ng
politika -
problema,
maduming
sistema at mga
buwayang
pulitiko na
nakaupo sa
ating
pamahalaan.
Nagkaroon lalo
ako ng lakas
ng loob ubang
bigyan ng
konstraktibong
kritisismo lalo
na ang mga
proyekto na
inilunsad
upang pigilan
ang patuloy na
pag taas ng
kaso ng
COVID-19 sa
bansa.
Bagama't may
mga ilang

195
 proyekto na
hindi ako sang-
ayon ay mas
pinili kong
sumunod sa
mga ito
kasabay ng
pagkakaroon
ng suggestions
kung papaano
mas papalawig
ang mga ito.

Q2. How R12: Ano dati R12 is now Increased Socio- Socio-political Impacts of Factors affecting General
engaged are you ano di ako engaged than political Engagement as a Technology and socio-political Increase in
to current events nanunuod ng before she/ he Engagement habit Digitalization engagement Socio-
now compared to mga balita begun to watch political
pre-pandemic pero simula news to be alert. Convenience of Increased socio- Personal Factors Current State of Engagemen
times? Elaborate nung engagement due to political awareness affecting Socio- Socio-political t due to
your answer. nagkaganto digitalization political Engagement Engagement Pandemic-
nagka Covid Convenience of during the related
ano na nunuod Socio-political engagement due to External Factors Pandemic Factors
na rin ako ang Engagement as a increased free time affecting Socio-
Based on his/her habit political Engagement
ng balita responses, R13 is Increased socio-
syempre para an active Presence of political awareness Impacts of Pandemic
alert tayo sa community Technological to Different Aspects
kung anong member and is Challenges Convenience of of Socio-political
nangyayari na thankful that the engagement due to Engagement
sa bansa natin. pandemic has Engagement due increased free time
given him/her to Influence from
R13: Mas Peers and Family
nagkaroon ako more time in
ng oras upang general to watch
and keep Increased Socio-
masubaybayan political
ang mga balita him/herself up to
date on the news. Engagement
noong
pandemya Convenience of
sapagkat nasa engagement due to
aming tahanan increased free time
lang ako dulot
Increased
196
na rin ng Discipline and
lockdown o Subservience
restriksyon
noong Increased socio-
panahong iyon. political awareness
At mas naging
importante ang Increased Socio-
kahalagahan political
ng balita Engagement as an
noong existing
panahong iyon personality trait
sapagkat dito Increased socio-
malalaman political altruism
kung ano-ano and collectivism
ang mga
ginagawang Convenience of
hakbang ng engagement due to
ating career and
pamahalaan sa obligation
krisis na ito.
Kung
ikukumpara
noong pre-
pandemic ay
wala akong
masyadong
oras sa
pagsubabay sa
balita dulot na
rin ng
maraming
gawain sa
aking paaralan
at mga
organisasyong
kinabibilangan.

197
Q3. Off the top R12: Madami Based on his/her Social Isolation Issues on Natural Social Issues Concern over Wide-
of your head, yung ano responses, R12 is and Quarantine- Disasters and Exclusively ranging
what different aware on what‘s related Personal Calamities Economic Issues Domestic Issues Pandemic-
yung yung happening in the Issues related
pandemic- Issues on the Justice
mga world especially High-profile Concern over issues
related issues* Issues relating to Deaths in 2020 System and Human General Issues
nagdaang in our country covering
do you recall Restrictions on Rights
bagyo every
encountering Movement and Extrajudicial aspect of
during the year maraming na Activity Killings and Police Issues on Political and
Press Freedom modern
2020? It can be apektohan Brutality
society
old news, Public Health
tapos yung R13 has given Issues relating to Issues on Corruption
current events, Issues caused by
pagputok ng more emphasis on the COVID-19 Restrictions on and Government
or any other public health Movement and Expenditure
bulking taal, Pandemic
timely issues issues currently Activity
you can yung Issues on Pandemic
facing the country Online and
remember the pagkamatay as we grapple Distance Learning Issues Related to and Disaster
ni kobie pati with the COVID- Crisis Economy and Response
most.
19 pandemic. Commerce
nung anak Issues on Online
Issues on the
niya, tapos Government‘s Issues relating to Classes
yung sa pulis Pandemic COVID-19
Vaccines Foreign Affairs Issues
na pinatay Response
yung maglola Issues on LGBT+
Issues on Labor Rights
ayun. and
Unemployment
R13: 1.
Issues on
Nagkaroon ng
Government
lockdown o Corruption
restriksyon sa
iba't ibang Concerns
surrounding
panig ng aChina-oriented
bansa. 2. Nag Foreign Policy and
panic buying Affairs
ang mga tao Extrajudicial
3. Tumaas Killings and Police
ang presyo ng Brutality

198
facemask at Issues relating to
alcohol 4. the ABS-CBN
Shutdown and
Ang hindi Freedom of
mabilisang Press/Speech
pagkakaroon
Issues relating to
ng travel-ban COVID-19
sa mga Vaccines
bansang
Issues on High-
mayroong profile Quarantine
naitalang Violations
kaso ng
Issues related to
COVID-19 5.
Pandemic
Ang pagpili Frontliners
ng Vaccine
Issues on the
(SinoVac) na
Activist
nasa antas ng Crackdown and
mababang Red-tagging
efficacy Controversy
kumpara sa Concerns on
ibang brand Misplaced
na mas Government
Priorities and
mababa ang
Expenditures
presyo pero
mas epektibo. COVID-19
Misinformation

Issues on LGBT+
Rights

199
Q4. As a Gen-Z R12: Siguro R12 thinks that Social Isolation Universal Social Issues Exclusively Affinity of
voter during the lahat naman the all issues are and Quarantine- Concern for all Domestic Issues Youth
important because related Personal Issues Economic Issues Voters
COVID-19 yun mahalaga
it affect all of us. Issues General Issues towards
Pandemic, which kasi lahat Issues on the Justice Issues of
of the issues you naman tayo na R13 is worried to Issues on the System and Human their
just mentioned do apektuhan an extent that Activist Issues on the Rights Personal
you think holds nung mga foreign nationals Crackdown and Government‘s Concern
carrying the virus Red-tagging Pandemic Issues on Political and
the most nangyari na Press Freedom
may make their Controversy Response
significance for yun eh.
way into the Issues on Pandemic
you personally Issues on Labor
R13: Ang country and create and Disaster
and why? setbacks in our and
hindi Unemployment Response
pandemic
mabilisang response. He/she
pagkakaroon is also worried Issues Related to
ng travel-ban that the lack of Economy and
urgency coming Commerce
sa mga
bansang from the Issues on the
mayroong government may Government‘s
have negative Pandemic
naitalang kaso
impacts on our Response
ng COVID-19. struggle against
Sapagkat COVID-19. Extrajudicial
makikita mo Killings and Police
dito na walang Brutality
state of
Issues relating to
urgency upang
the ABS-CBN
mapag Shutdown and
desisyunan Freedom of
agad ang Press/Speech
bagay na ito
Issues on LGBT+
dahil sa
Rights
matagal na
pagkilos ay Universal
mas nagkaroon Concern for all
ng COVID-19 Issues
sa bansa. Kung

200
 sana ay
nagkaroon ng
mabilis na
aksyon ukol sa
usaping ito ay
maaring hindi
ganoon kalaki
ang bilang ng
COVID-19 sa
bansa. Dito
makikita kung
competent o
hindi ang
pamahalaan
base sa
pagkakaroon
ng state of
urgency sa
pagdedesiyon
na isinasaalang
alang ang
kapakanan ng
kanyang
nasasakupan.

Q5. As a Gen-Z R12: Ah edi R12 believes that Issues on Public Health Social Issues Concern over Affinity of
voter during the yung the Covid 19 is Polarization and Issues caused by Exclusively Youth
the most Political the COVID-19 Economic Issues Domestic Issues Voters
COVID-19 mismomg
significant Differences Pandemic towards
Pandemic, which covid kasi ano Issues on the Justice Concern over
because Covid 19 Issues of
of the issues you lahat tayo really change our Public Health Issues relating to System and Human General Issues National
just mentioned do naranasan life and make our Issues caused by COVID-19 Rights Concern
you think holds yung hirap life more difficult. the COVID-19 Vaccines
Pandemic Issues on Political and
the most nong dumating Press Freedom
significance for yung covid eh Issues on the
the country in hindi lang R13 believes that Government‘s Issues on Pandemic

201
general and why? yung bansa a safe vaccination Pandemic and Disaster
natin yung program is one of Response Response
ibang bansa the important
issues that we as a Issues Related to Issues on Online
rin. Economy and Classes
country must face
as this involves Commerce
the health and
safety of Issues on Labor
R13: Ang and
Filipinos.
pagpili ng Unemployment
brand vaccine
sapagkat Issues on Crime
makikita dito Online and
kung papaano Distance Learning
pinapahalagah Crisis
an ng
Issues relating to
pamahalaan the ABS-CBN
ang kanyang Shutdown and
mamamayan. Freedom of
Napakahalagan Press/Speech
g isa alang-
Extrajudicial
alang ang
Killings and Police
kaligtasan ng Brutality
bawat Pilipino
dito sa Universal
kadahilanang Concern for all
Issues
sila ang bubuo
o magbibigay
ng pagbabago
sa makalawang
na sistema ng
ating
pamahalaan.
Ang
magdadala ng
magandang

202
 kinabukasan
para ating
mahal na inang
bayan.

Q6. How would R12: Yung R12 believes that Apolitical/Apathet Generally Voter Politically Two
you describe your politika natin our government is ic Disdainful of Disenfranchisement Disenfranchised facetedness
political ngayon para sa unjustice because Politics Views/Perspectiv of Impact
of the issues and Generally Views/Perspectives es to Voters’
views/perspective akin hindi Confused or Lacks within the Political
fraud that happen Political
s? makatarungan since Presiden Direction Spectrum Politically Views/Pers-
kasi madaming Duterte sit in his Engaged pectives
ano eh position. Political Empathy Views/Perspectives Views/Perspectiv
irrespective of the es
madaming Independent Political Spectrum
pandaraya ang Perspectives
nagaganap
tapos yung Unpolarized and
Moderate Views
mga
nangyayari sa Libertarian
atin simula Generally
The respondent Politcal Disdainful of
nung umupo si Politics
tends to have a Pragmatism
Duterte ay ano
negative Generally
di maayos. Facts-based
connotation/attitu Confused or Lacks
de towards Political Views
R13: Ang Direction
politics and Politically
pulitika ay
believes that it is Disenfranchised
magulo, complicated.
madumi, at Nationalistic
puno ng Views
misteryo.
Liberal

Political Empathy

Outspoken

203
 Non-fanatical

Views based on
Categorical
Imperatives

Polarized Views

Q7. Looking R12: Para sa R12 believes that Resentment Unsatisfaction Growing Disapproval Mentality Impacts of
back, how did akin syempre instead of having towards People towards Status and Resentment Change issues
these issues para sa akin a better country with Contrasting Quo towards
it‘s become worse Political Views Changes towards Political one’s
change your maraming One’s Socio-political Antipathy
and she/him political
political nagbago kasi believes that the Resentment Engagement and perspective
perspectives, ano eh simula acion of the towards the Perspectives s
especially on nung umupo si government is not Government and
current Duterte ang effective. its Leaders
government daming Broadening of
policies and nangyari sa Political
incumbents? bansa natin na Views/Perspective
kung anu-anu s
eh may mga
Unsatisfaction
krimen parang towards Status
imbis na Quo
maging
maayos yung Increasingly
bansa natin Outspoken
Views/Perspective
mas lalong
s
lumala feeling
ko di epektibo Increased Sense of
yung mga R13 believes that Responsibility
pinaggagawa he/she is firmer in towards Issues
ng mga his/her
convictions about Reassessment and Reaffirmation and
gobyerno natin
politics now more Raising of One‘s Strengthening of
ngayon. than ever after Voting Standards Already Held
hearing about Beliefs/Perspectiv
R13: Mas Reaffirmation and
these issues. es
pinagtibay nito Strengthening of
204
 ang aking Already Held
pananaw Beliefs/Perspectiv
tungkol sa es
hindi maayos Resentment
na pulitika ng towards Police and
bansa at ng Military
mga nakaupo Authorities
sa pwesto.
Radicalization

Q8. Looking R12: Ahh sa R12 thinks that Voter Disaffection Positive Unpopularity of Positive Changes Implication
forward, in what tingin ko the voters will Towards Older Expectations Certain Demographics to Overall s of
ways do you think Malaki yung vote wisely after and Traditional Towards Election of Outlook for the Pandemic-
all of this events Politicians Outcome Candidates/Politicians Elections Related
will these issues pagbabagong
and issues. And Among Voters Issues on
affect your mangyayari sa she/he believes Distrust Towards Striving to become Negative Voters’
mindset or overall darating na that many things Politicians‘ Words an Informed Voter Voter Responsibility Changes to Overall
outlook about the elekyon kasi will change with and Promises Overall Outlook Outlook of
this upcoming Eagerness towards for the Elections the
2022 National symepre sa
election. Increased Elections
Elections? Why? daming Elections
Confidence
nangayare di towards Fellow Expectations After the
maganda Voters that they Elections
ngayon taon ay R13 gives a will Vote Wisely
generic but
205
ano last year sa straightforward Voter Disaffection
daming di answer on Towards
magandang whether or not Incompetent
these issues will Incumbent
nangyari dapat
affect his/her Officials
alam na nating outlook. As to
mga botante whether this is a Voter Disaffection
yung ano kung positive or Towards Political
sino ang dapat negative impact, Dynasties
nating iboto, the respondent
does not imply Increased
yung Confidence
anything.
karapatdapat towards Self that
para mabago They will Vote
yung bansa Wisely
natin. Striving to become
an Informed Voter
R13: Ito ang
aking Increased
magiging Vigilance and
basehan sa Keener Voting
pagpili o Standards
pagboto sa Increased
darating na Eagenerness
eleksyon. towards the
Elections

Voter Disaffection
Towards Far-Right
Politicians

Voter Disaffection
Towards
Politicians with
Law Enforcement
or Military
Backgrounds

Radicalized and
Revolutionary
206
 Outlook

Positive
Expectations
Towards Election
Outcome

Q9. In light of R12: Syempre R12 aim only one Election of More Return to Principled Voting Voting-Related Non-
your most isa lang yung thing and that is a Youth Leaders Normalcy/Resolvi Goals Goals conservativ
important issues ano gusto ko well and good ng the Pandemic‘s e
country.And the Exercise of Voting Crises Pragmatic Voting Election Objectives
and the upcoming lang maging Rights Goals Outcome-Related and Voting
one they will vote
elections, what do ano maayos is the one who Goals Intentions
you aim to yung bansa can change he Return to Principled Election- of Youth
achieve as a youth natin at saka country for it‘s Normalcy/Resolvi Elect Capable Outcome Goals Voters
people and for the ng the Pandemic‘s Leaders
voter in this yung iboboto Pragmatic Election-
sake of the Crises
country? naming ng Outcome Goals
mga botante country. Motivate and
yung ano Inspire Other
mababago na Youth to Vote
yung bansa Be an Informed
natin at Voter
maayos niya.
Elect Capable
Leaders

Contribute to
Based on his Creating Good
R13: Manalo response, R13 is Governance
ang isang generally
resentful of the Advance the Elect Capable
kandidato na Progressive
current Leaders
magsisimula administration Agenda
ng pagbabago and is looking Election of More
sa makalawang forward for new Increased Civic Youth Leaders
candidates to Involvement in the
na sistema ng
enter the political Elections
pamahaalan.
landscape come Hold the
Government and
207
 2022. its Leaders
Accountable

Represent the
Youth in Key
Issues

Q10. In general, R12: Sa R12 thinks what Polarized Political Pessimism Election Outcome- Positive Two-
what comes into paparating na kind of fraud will Landscape Towards Election Related Expectations Expectations facetedness
your mind when eleksyon ano candidaes do for Security of the
them to win. The Empty Promises Voting-Related Negative Youth’s
you think of the iniisip ko lang from Politicians Expectations Expectations
responden believe Expectatio
upcoming yung mga that earning the ns towards
elections? pandaraya na high position you Political Cynicism the
Describe your ano nagagawa should consider Elections
Optimism with
expectations or ng paraan para the sake‘s of the Regards to Voter
personal feelings manalo sila countrys people. Responsibility
about it, if any. may mga kasi
meron kasing Empowered Youth
Participation in the
naghahangad
Elections
ng ano
matataas na Optimism with
posisyon para Regards to
sa pansarili Election Security
nilang Optimism with
kapakanan Regards to
which is mali Election Outcome
dapat kung
Loss of
gusto mong
Confidence in the
ano mataas na Elections
posisyon dapat
yung Fear against
kapakanan ng threats to
lahat hindu Democracy
yung sayo Genuine Fear and
208
lang. Pessimism towards
Election Outcomes

Pessimism
R13: R13 provides a Towards Election
multifaceted Security
Nakakakot at Genuine Fear and
personal view as
nakaka excite. he/she raises Pessimism towards
Nakakatakot sa mixed feelings of Election Outcomes
paraang baka worry and
maihalal ang optimism towards
isang the elections.
kandidato na He/she is
confident that the
incompetent
youth and their
and hindi concerns will be
mabigyan ng heard in our
pagbabago ang democratic
kasalukuyang process.
sistema ng
pamahalaan.
At nakaka
excite sa
paraang
naniniwala ako
Empowered Youth
na itong
Participation in the
darating na Elections
eleksyon ay
boses naman
ng kabataan
ang maririnig
at maihalal ang
isang kandiado
na magdudulot
ng inaasan na
pagbabago sa
ating

209
 pamahalaan.

Q11. In what R12: Ano ahh R12 is clear that Causes Further Positive Impacts Short Term Overarchin
way do you think Malaki yung these concerns Division and Impacts to g Changes
will have far- Polarization Negative Impacts Political to the
will these issues magiging
impact the future epekto nung
reaching Landscape County’s
consequences for Changes to Political
political ano neto kasi the forthcoming Elections and Long Term Landscape
landscape in this ano eh ayaw elections and will Campaign Norms Impacts to due to
country and the naman nating serve as the due to the Political Pandemic-
outcomes of the maulit yung foundation for Coronavirus Landscape related
2022 National nangyari future policy Issues
changes. More Emphasis on
Elections? ngayon diba Platforms
kasi sympre Addressing the
lahat parang COVID-19
ang hirap Pandemic
Create a Political
naranasan na Create a Political Landscape of
natin lahat kasi Landscape of Good Governance
sobrang Good Governance
daming
nangyari Increased
Accountability for
ngayon 2020
Politicians
so ayaw na
natin maulit Cynical Political
yung nangyari Landscape
ngayon kaya
Systematic Change
Malaki yung
magigig epekto Widespread
natin dun sa sa Mindset Change
pagpili ng ano among Filipinos
kasalukuyang Increased
mamumuno sa
210
atin. Transparency

R13: Ito ay Heightened

may malaking Insurgency and
Revolutionary
epekto sa
Tendencies
kinahaharap na
political Increased Support
situation dahil for Progressive
ito ay maaring R13 is certain that Ideals
maging these issues will
basehan ng have far-ranging More Emphasis on
impacts on the Platforms
mga akyson na
upcoming Addressing the
ginawa upang COVID-19
elections and will
mapaghandaan be the basis for Pandemic
ang isang policy change in
krisis o the future.
pandemya na
ating
nararanasan.
At ito rin ang
mag mumulat
ng mga mata
ng bawat
Create a Political
Pilipino upang Landscape of
piliin at iboto Good Governance
ang isang tao
na may
dedikasyon,
lakas ng loob
at kakayahan
na magkaroon
ng pagbabago
sa bansa.

211
Q12. Taking R12: a.) R12 believes that Progressive Decisive Progressive Values Stance on Issues Progressive
into account the Syempre a Leader that Trend of
should be electred Politicians with Personality Traits Electability Voting
issues that are yung ano is wise and the Highest Preferences
important to yung kaya competent. A Chance of Performance Performance among
you, what niya ihandle leader who can Winning Youth
Experience/Backgrou
characteristics yung bansa rule the country nd Voters
for the good sake Transparent
would you now natin ng of the country‘s Non-traditional
like to see in an maayos people Politician
elected public walang
servant such as pandurugas Serious or
Determined
the President? uhmm yung
sno siguro Younger
a. in terms of yung ano di
their personality Intellectual
katulad basta
traits di katulad ni Has Experience in
Duterte Politics or
b. in terms of Governance
their experience b.) Hindi
or background Decisive
namna ano eh
sa pagiging Has aPolitics-
c. in terms of Related
their stance on pangulo R13 puts greater Educational
issues naman kahit importance on a background
naman basta politician‘s
socioeconomic Charismatic
ano yung Has Experience in
background and
kayang Patriotic Politics or
personal grit
niyang ayusin Governance
complimented of Accomplished
yung bansa course by a good with Good Track
natin hindi track record. Record
namn
Has a Public
kailangan ng Health Related
may Educational
karanasan background

212
yung pangulo Committed to
kailangan Protecting Human
Rights
lang kaya mo
talaga ano Feminist
ayusin yung
Anti-Fascist
bansa.
Selfless/Has No Principled
c.) Ano Personal Agenda
makatarungan
Non-Populist
tapos ano
may Anti-Capitalist
paninindigan Lawful/
at may Constitutional
prinsipyo.
Not a member of a
Political Dynasty
R13:
Nagmula o Social Democratic From the
naranasan ang Working/Middle
Has Science-based
hirap ng Leadership Class
buhay. May
malasakit sa Relatable
kapwa at From the
mapagmahal. Working/Middle
May sapat na Class
karanasan sa Accomplished
Has a Hard and with Good Track
politika at Firm Stance on Record
magandang Key Issues
record ng Works Well Under
pamamahala. Pressure

Has Great Political

Capital

213
Q13. Again R12: Wala R12 have no idea Farmer Assistance Apathetic/No Economy Broad Platforms Supported
taking into para sa akin what platforms or Idea Platforms
policies will be Platforms Health Specific Policies and Policies
account the di ko alam eh proposed.The Ensuring Greater by Youth
issues that are siguro respondent will Civil Liberties Education Voters in
important to inatayin na just wait and see Governance the 2022
if the public Platforms
you, what lang natin sila Elections
servant‘s policies Addressing Wealth
platforms or para malaman Inequality Environment
and platforms will
policies would din nating be effective. Laws
Reform on the
you like to see kung talaga Educational
Agriculture is an Society
proposed on the epektibo sila. important issue System
table come this that must be
R13: Ang Platforms
2022? Why? addressed in the Addressing
pagkakaroon upcoming Inflation Platforms
ng pokus sa elections
Addressing
Agrikultura o according to this Platforms Agriculture
respondent. Addressing Red
mga isyung He/she believes Tape and
kinahaharap that the Bureaucracy
ng mahal government must
stop overlooking Job Growth and
nating
the said industry Employment
magsasaka. and provide the
Itaas ang changes he Better Economic Raise the Price of
believes are long- opportunitites Rice
presyo ng
bigas. Sa due.
Increasing the
pagkat Minimum Wage
napakalawak More funding for
ng mga the Health Sector
lupain sa
More funding for
Pilipinas the Education
ngunit hindi Sector
nagagamit ng
Platforms
maayos sa Addressing the
kadahilanang Public health crisis

214
walang sapat due to COVID-19
na budget na Platforms
inilalaan ang Addressing Illegal
pamahalaan Mining
dito.
Platforms
Addressing
Government
Corruption

Repeal of the Anti-

Terror Law

Passing of the
SOGIE Bill

GDP Growth

Universal
Healthcare

Platforms
Addressing
Climate Change

Return to Face-To-
Face Classes

Platforms
Addressing Mental
Health

Platforms Against
Charter Change

Reform on the
Justice System

Platforms
Defunding the
Police

215
Theoretical Analysis For Statement of the Problem #1 (Searching for a Grounded Theory)Z

What are the issues that matter most to eligible Gen-Z voters during the course of COVID-19 pandemic?

Questions Codes from last cycle/s Concepts Categories Sub-Theme Theme

Q1. Describe your Sanguine Attitudes Emotional Optimism and Positive Two How Gen-Z Voters
experiences so far In Light of Difficult Frustration Resilience Experiences facetedness perceive the isses
during this Situations of pandemic during the COVID-19
pandemic. increased General affliction Negative experiences Pandemic
inclination towards Experiences
Resilience
Socio-political
engagement Personal Affliction
Exploration and
Making use of Keeping up with situational adjustment
Available the Digital
transformation of Socio-political
Opportunities
society Engagement
Undergoing Culture Socio-political
Shock Cynicism and
disenchantment Disenchantment
Societal Frustration Exploration and self-
improvement

216
Q2. How engaged Increased Socio- Convenience of Impacts of Technology Factors affecting General
are you to current political Engagement engagement due and Digitalization socio-political Increase in
events now to increased free engagement Socio-
compared to pre- Convenience of time Personal Factors political
pandemic times? engagement due to affecting Socio-political Current State of Engagement
Elaborate your digitalization Increased Engagement Socio-political due to
answer. Discipline and Engagement Pandemic-
Socio-political Subservience External Factors during the related
Engagement as a habit affecting Socio-political Pandemic Factors
Increased socio- Engagement
Presence of political
Technological awareness Impacts of Pandemic to
Challenges Different Aspects of
Increased Socio- Socio-political
Engagement due to political Engagement
Influence from Peers Engagement as
and Family an existing
personality trait
Increased Socio-
political Engagement Increased socio-
political altruism
and collectivism

Convenience of
engagement due
to career and
obligation

Q3. Off the top of Social Isolation and Issues relating to Social Issues Concern over Wide-
your head, what Quarantine-related COVID-19 Exclusively ranging
Personal Issues Vaccines Economic Issues Domestic Issues Pandemic-
different
pandemic-related related
Issues relating to Issues on High- Issues on the Justice Concern over issues
issues* do you Restrictions on profile System and Human General Issues covering
recall Movement and Quarantine Rights every aspect
encountering Activity Violations of modern
during the year Issues on Political and
Press Freedom society
2020? It can be Public Health Issues Issues related to
old news, current caused by the COVID- Pandemic
19 Pandemic Frontliners Issues on Corruption
events, or any and Government
other timely Online and Distance Issues on the
217
issues you can Learning Crisis Activist Expenditure
remember the Crackdown and
Issues on the Red-tagging Issues on Pandemic and
most.
Government‘s Controversy Disaster Response
Pandemic Response
Concerns on Issues on Online
Issues on Labor and Misplaced Classes
Unemployment Government
Priorities and Foreign Affairs Issues
Issues on Government Expenditures
Corruption Issues on LGBT+
COVID-19 Rights
Concerns surrounding Misinformation
aChina-oriented
Foreign Policy and Issues on LGBT+
Affairs Rights
Extrajudicial Killings Issues on Natural
and Police Brutality Disasters and
Calamities
Issues relating to the
ABS-CBN Shutdown High-profile
and Freedom of Deaths in 2020
Press/Speech
Issues Related to
Economy and
Commerce

Q4. As a Gen-Z Social Isolation and Extrajudicial Social Issues Exclusively Affinity of
voter during the Quarantine-related Killings and Domestic Issues Youth
Personal Issues Police Brutality Economic Issues Voters
COVID-19
General Issues towards
Pandemic, which of Issues on the Activist Issues relating to Issues on the Justice Issues of
the issues you just Crackdown and Red- the ABS-CBN System and Human their
mentioned do you tagging Controversy Shutdown and Rights Personal
think holds the Freedom of Concern
Issues on Labor and Press/Speech Issues on Political and
most significance Press Freedom
Unemployment
for you personally Issues on
and why? Issues Related to LGBT+ Rights Issues on Pandemic and
Economy and Disaster Response
Universal
218
 Commerce Concern for all
Issues
Issues on the
Government‘s
Pandemic Response

Q5. As a Gen-Z Issues on Polarization Online and Social Issues Concern over Affinity of
voter during the and Political Distance Exclusively Youth
Differences Learning Crisis Economic Issues Domestic Issues Voters
COVID-19
Pandemic, which of towards
Public Health Issues Issues relating to Issues on the Justice Concern over Issues of
the issues you just caused by the COVID- the ABS-CBN System and Human General Issues National
mentioned do you 19 Pandemic Shutdown and Rights Concern
think holds the Freedom of
Issues on the Press/Speech Issues on Political and
most significance Press Freedom
Government‘s
for the country in Pandemic Response Extrajudicial
general and why? Killings and Issues on Pandemic and
Issues Related to Police Brutality Disaster Response
Economy and
Commerce Universal Issues on Online
Concern for all Classes
Issues on Labor and Issues
Unemployment
Issues relating to
Issues on Crime COVID-19
Vaccines

Theoretical Analysis For Statement of the Problem #2 (Searching for a Grounded Theory)

What are the impacts of those issues that eligible Gen-Z voters encounter on their perspectives toward the 2022 national elections?

Questions Codes from last cycle/s Concepts Categories Sub-Theme Theme

219
Q6. How would Apolitical/Apathetic Nationalistic Voter Politically Two How the pandemic
you describe your Views Disenfranchisement Disenfranchised facetedness and pandemic-related
Generally Confused or Views/Perspectives of Impact to issues shaped the
political
Lacks Direction Liberal Views/Perspectives Voters’ perspectives of Gen-Z
views/perspectives? within the Political Politically Political voters toward the
Political Empathy Political Spectrum Engaged Views/Pers- 2022 National
Empathy Views/Perspectives pectives
Independent Elections
Views/Perspectives
Perspectives Outspoken irrespective of the
Political Spectrum
Unpolarized and Non-fanatical
Moderate Views
Views based on
Libertarian Categorical
Imperatives
Politcal Pragmatism
Polarized Views
Facts-based Political
Views Generally
Disdainful of
Politically Politics
Disenfranchised

Q7. Looking back, Resentment towards Reassessment and Growing Disapproval Mentality Change Impacts of
how did these People with Raising of One‘s and Resentment issues
Contrasting Voting Standards Political Antipathy towards
issues change your
Political Views Changes towards One’s one’s
political Reaffirmation and Socio-political political
perspectives, Resentment towards Strengthening of Engagement and perspectives
especially on the Government and Already Held Perspectives
current government its Leaders Beliefs/Perspectives
policies and
Broadening of Resentment
incumbents? Political towards Police and
Views/Perspectives Military Authorities

Unsatisfaction Radicalization
towards Status Quo

Increasingly
Outspoken
Views/Perspectives

220
 Increased Sense of
Responsibility
towards Issues

Q8. Looking Voter Disaffection Increased Vigilance Unpopularity of Certain Positive Changes Implications
forward, in what Towards Older and and Keener Voting Demographics of to Overall Outlook of
ways do you think Traditional Standards Candidates/Politicians for the Elections Pandemic-
Politicians Among Voters Related
will these issues Increased Negative Changes Issues on
affect your mindset Distrust Towards Eagenerness Voter Responsibility to Overall Outlook Voters’
or overall outlook Politicians‘ Words towards the for the Elections Overall
about the 2022 and Promises Elections Eagerness towards Outlook of
Elections
National Elections? the Elections
Increased Voter Disaffection
Why? Confidence towards Towards Far-Right Expectations After the
Fellow Voters that Politicians Elections
they will Vote
Wisely Voter Disaffection
Towards Politicians
Voter Disaffection with Law
Towards Enforcement or
Incompetent Military
Incumbent Officials Backgrounds

Voter Disaffection Radicalized and

Towards Political Revolutionary
Dynasties Outlook

Increased Positive
Confidence towards Expectations
Self that They will Towards Election
Vote Wisely Outcome

Striving to become
an Informed Voter

221
Q9. In light of Election of More Contribute to Principled Voting Goals Voting-Related Non-
your most Youth Leaders Creating Good Goals conservative
Governance Pragmatic Voting Goals Objectives
important issues
Exercise of Voting Election Outcome- and Voting
and the upcoming Rights Advance the Principled Election- Related Goals Intentions of
elections, what do Progressive Outcome Goals Youth
you aim to achieve Return to Agenda
Pragmatic Election- Voters
as a youth voter in Normalcy/Resolving
the Pandemic‘s Increased Civic Outcome Goals
this country?
Crises Involvement in the
Elections
Motivate and Inspire
Other Youth to Vote Hold the
Government and its
Be an Informed Leaders
Voter Accountable
Elect Capable Represent the
Leaders Youth in Key
Issues

Theoretical Analysis For Statement of the Problem #3 (Searching for a Grounded Theory)

What is the outlook of the respondents on the 2022 National Elections in general, and in terms of their preferred characteristic traits a leader, and

on the platforms/initiatives these candidates are willing to support?

Questions Codes from last cycle/s Concepts Categories Sub-Theme Theme

Q10. In general, Polarized Political Optimism with Election Outcome- Positive Two- Characterization of
what comes into Regards to Election facetedness the current outlook of
222
your mind when Landscape Outcome Related Expectations Expectations of the Gen-Z voters towards
you think of the Youth’s the 2022 National
Empty Promises Loss of Confidence Voting-Related Negative Expectations Elections.
upcoming
from Politicians in the Elections Expectations Expectations towards the
elections? Describe
Elections
your expectations Political Cynicism Fear against threats
or personal feelings to Democracy
Optimism with
about it, if any.
Regards to Voter Genuine Fear and
Responsibility Pessimism towards
Election Outcomes
Empowered Youth
Participation in the Pessimism Towards
Elections Election Security

Optimism with
Regards to Election
Security

Q11. In what way Causes Further Systematic Change Positive Impacts Short Term Overarching
do you think will Division and Impacts to Changes to
Polarization Widespread Negative Impacts Political the County’s
these issues impact
Mindset Change Landscape Political
the future political Changes to among Filipinos Landscape
landscape in this Elections and Long Term due to
country and the Campaign Norms Increased Impacts to Pandemic-
outcomes of the due to the Transparency Political related
2022 National Coronavirus Landscape Issues
Heightened
Elections? More Emphasis on Insurgency and
Platforms Revolutionary
Addressing the Tendencies
COVID-19
Pandemic Increased Support
for Progressive
Create a Political Ideals
Landscape of Good
Governance

Increased
Accountability for

223
 Politicians

Cynical Political
Landscape

Q12. Taking into Progressive Anti-Fascist Progressive Values Stance on Issues Progressive
account the issues Trend of
Politicians with the Selfless/Has No Personality Traits Electability Voting
that are important Highest Chance of Personal Agenda Preferences
to you, what Winning Performance Performance among
Non-Populist
characteristics Experience/Background Youth
Transparent Voters
would you now Anti-Capitalist
like to see in an Non-traditional
Politician Lawful/
elected public Constitutional
servant such as Serious or
the President? Determined Not a member of a
Political Dynasty
Younger
a. in terms of Social Democratic
their personality Intellectual
traits Has Science-based
Has Experience in Leadership
Politics or
b. in terms of Relatable
Governance
their experience
or background Decisive From the
Working/Middle
c. in terms of Has aPolitics- Class
Related Educational
their stance on background Has a Hard and
issues Firm Stance on Key
Charismatic Issues

Patriotic Works Well Under

Pressure
Accomplished with
Good Track Record Has Great Political
Capital
Has a Public Health
Related Educational Principled

224
 background

Committed to
Protecting Human
Rights

Feminist

Q13. Again Farmer Assistance Repeal of the Anti- Economy Broad Platforms Supported
taking into Terror Law Platforms
Platforms Ensuring Health Specific Policies and Policies
account the issues Greater Civil Passing of the by Youth
that are important Liberties SOGIE Bill Education Voters in the
to you, what Governance 2022
Platforms GDP Growth
platforms or Elections
Addressing Wealth
policies would Inequality Universal Environment
Healthcare
you like to see Laws
Reform on the
proposed on the Educational System Platforms
Addressing Climate Society
table come this
Platforms Change
2022? Why?
Addressing
Inflation Return to Face-To-
Face Classes
Platforms
Addressing Red Platforms
Tape and Addressing Mental
Bureaucracy Health

Job Growth and Platforms Against

Employment Charter Change

Better Economic Reform on the

opportunitites Justice System

Increasing the Platforms

Minimum Wage Defunding the
Police
More funding for
the Health Sector Platforms
Addressing
More funding for
225
the Education Agriculture
Sector
Raise the Price of
Platforms Rice
Addressing the
Public health crisis Apathetic/No Idea
due to COVID-19

Platforms
Addressing Illegal
Mining

Platforms
Addressing
Government
Corruption

226
 Curriculum Vitae

Researcher’s Profile

Last Name First Name/s Middle Name

Borja Vinzen Josh Litan
Gender: Male Date of Birth: 03/24/2004
Age: 16 Nationality: Filipino
Phone: +63 961 1903 940 Email: Joshborja032404@gmail.com
Address: Lot 5, Block 6, Taal St., Phase 1, Sunridge Ville, Brgy. Isabang, Tayabas City

Educational Background

Elementary Institution: Maryhill College Lucena City

Year of Enrollment: 2010 - 2011
Year of Completion: 2015 - 2016
Highest Recognition Obtained: Class Valedictorian
Quezon National High School – Science Technology and Engineering Program
: Junior High School
(STE)
2016 - 2017 : Year of Enrollment
2019 - 2020 : Year of Completion
With Highest Honors : Highest Recognition Obtained
Quezon National High School – Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics
Senior High School:
(STEM)
Year of Enrollment: 2020 - 2021
Year of Completion: *not applicable
Highest Recognition Obtained: *not applicable

227
 Curriculum Vitae

Researcher’s Profile

Last Name First Name/s Middle Name

Auditor Janna Hershies Bombita
Gender: Female Date of Birth: 04/09/2004
Age: 16 Nationality: Filipino
Phone: +63 906 8681 286 Email: hershiesaba@gmail.com
Address: Flores Subdivision, Brgy. 7, Lucena City

Educational Background

Elementary Institution: Lucena West 1 Elementary School

Year of Enrollment: 2010 - 2011
Year of Completion: 2015 - 2016
Highest Recognition Obtained: None
Quezon National High School – Special Program in Sports : Junior High School
2016 - 2017 : Year of Enrollment
2019 - 2020 : Year of Completion
With Honors : Highest Recognition Obtained
Quezon National High School – Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics
Senior High School:
(STEM)
Year of Enrollment: 2020 - 2021
Year of Completion: *not applicable
Highest Recognition Obtained: *not applicable

228
 Curriculum Vitae

Researcher’s Profile

Last Name First Name/s Middle Name

Abregunda Aleck Xandra Mae Tapan
Gender: Female Date of Birth: 04/09/03
Age: 17 Nationality: Filipino
Phone: +63 919 9604 731 Email: aleck04abregunda@gmail.com
Address: Blk. 9,Lt. 1&3,San Ignacio St.,Southgate Subd.,Brgy.Calumpang,Tayabas City

Educational Background

Elementary Institution: Maryhill College Lucena City

Year of Enrollment: 2010 - 2011
Year of Completion: 2015 - 2016
st
Highest Recognition Obtained: 1 Honorable Mention
Quezon National High School – Science Technology and Engineering Program
: Junior High School
(STE)
2016 - 2017 : Year of Enrollment
2019 - 2020 : Year of Completion
With High Honors : Highest Recognition Obtained
Quezon National High School – Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics
Senior High School:
(STEM)
Year of Enrollment: 2020 - 2021
Year of Completion: *not applicable
Highest Recognition Obtained: *not applicable

229