A political expert has raised concerns over what she sees as a decline in the caliber of senatorial candidates for the upcoming 2025 midterm elections.
Edna Co, former dean of the University of the Philippines National College of Public Administration and Governance, noted that while the constitutional requirements for senators are minimal—Filipino citizenship, literacy, and a minimum age of 35—voters should expect much more from those aspiring to hold one of the most powerful legislative positions in the country.
“Why are we sliding downward instead of progressing with more capable candidates?” Co said during a May 2 interview on BaliTapatan on Teleradyo Serbisyo.
She emphasized that senators are tasked with crafting laws that impact the entire nation, not just local communities, and thus should come with depth of knowledge and clear specializations.
Among those who have declared their intent to run are a number of high-profile personalities, including celebrities and media figures such as Willie Revillame, Jimmy Bondoc, Bong Revilla, Philip Salvador, vloggers like Marc Gamboa, and broadcasters Erwin and Ben Tulfo. Reelectionist Lito Lapid also joins the race, alongside candidates from grassroots sectors like fisherfolk and labor groups.
Despite the perceived decline in candidate qualifications, Co opposed calls for stricter eligibility criteria. She believes the power remains in the hands of the people.
“The choice is ultimately up to the voters, and we assume that they are capable of making informed decisions,” she said.
Co urged the public to support candidates who possess clear principles and a strong understanding of national issues, stressing that elections are as much a test of the electorate’s discernment as they are of the candidates’ qualifications.
