As the 2025 Philippine elections approach, an increasing number of social media influencers and entertainment industry figures are seeking public office, prompting varied reactions from voters. Many Filipinos have taken to social media to express their thoughts on this growing trend.
In a viral post by Renz Saavadera, a social media personality, he shared his concern: “Puro influencers at artista ang tatakbo. Public service po ang papasukin niyo hindi star magic ball,” highlighting the shift from politics being the domain of seasoned public servants to one dominated by personalities from social media and entertainment.
Among the notable figures vying for public office is Enzo Pineda, an actor known for his roles in popular TV dramas, who is running for councilor in Quezon City’s 5th district. Ion Perez, widely recognized as a host on It’s Showtime, is also seeking a councilor position in Concepcion, Tarlac. Social media entrepreneur Rosmar Tan is running for councilor in Manila’s 1st district, while Marco Gumabao, an actor, is entering politics to run for a congressional seat in Camarines Sur’s 4th district.
The influx of influencers and celebrities running for office has sparked debate online. Vincent Romero Tolentino commented, “Hayaan na lang daw tumakbo kasi tayo rin ang boboto. Just so you know, you deserve what you tolerate. Kung mula sa get-go pa lang hinahayaan na, binibigyan niyo lang sila ng chance para makalusot…,” pointing to the importance of voters making informed choices rather than being swayed by popularity.
Meanwhile, Jeff Lauron shared his thoughts: “We can say ‘good luck, Pilipinas’ all we want. Or we can decide to check on our candidates by their platforms and principles first, not popularity.” Lauron emphasized the need for voters to evaluate candidates beyond their fame.
However, others like RJ Echaveria had a different view: “Kahit influencers and artista kung maganda ang educational background and maraming influencer at artista ang degree holder, so why not?” Echaveria’s comment suggests that not all candidates from showbiz should be dismissed if they possess the qualifications.
The Philippine Constitution outlines the minimum requirements for those running for office. For local officials like governors, mayors, and councilors, candidates must be citizens of the Philippines, registered voters in their locality, and at least 23 years old. For senators, they must be at least 35 years old, and for members of the House of Representatives, the minimum age is 25.
As the conversation continues online, voters like Katrina G Gomez-Chua expressed the desire for stricter qualifications: “If may dapat baguhin sa ating Saligang Batas, sana kung ano ‘yung minimum qualifications para kumandidato.”
Despite these concerns, Filipino voters ultimately hold the power to decide whether the shift towards influencers and celebrities in politics is a step forward or backward. As one commenter, EJ Ballebar, put it: “Tayo lang din naman ang magdedecide na hindi sila iboto.”
With the election season heating up, the question remains—will voters prioritize fame, or will they focus on qualifications and platforms? Only time will tell
