The 2025 Philippine Midterm Elections: What You Need to Know

As the 2025 midterm elections in the Philippines approach, Filipinos are gearing up for another crucial event in the nation’s democratic process. Midterm elections allow us to reassess the current political landscape, influence policy direction, and ensure that both national and local leaders are accountable to the people they serve. By participating in the electoral process, we contribute to the checks and balances that safeguard our democracy.

Here’s a general overview of what to expect, including some key facts and a look at the latest Commission on Elections (COMELEC) guidelines on the use of social media, artificial intelligence, and internet technology for digital election campaign under Resolution No. 11064.

What are midterm elections?

The midterm elections, held every three (3) years in the Philippines, are called “midterms” because they occur halfway through the incumbent president’s six-year term. In the 2025 elections, Filipinos will vote for:

• 12 senators (half of the Senate)
• All members of the House of Representatives including party-list representatives
• Local government officials

What are the key dates and deadlines?

According to COMELEC’s timeline, several important dates have already been set for the 2025 midterm elections:

• Election Day: The midterm elections will be held on 12 May 2025
• Filing of Certificates of Candidacy (COC): Candidates must submit their COCs by 08 October 2024
• Campaign Period: For national candidates, the official campaign period is set for 90 days and begins on 09 February 2025. Meanwhile, local candidates, who are subject to a 45-day campaign period, can start campaigning on 29 March 2025. Both campaign periods will conclude on May 10, 2025¹
• Registration of official social media accounts and pages, websites, podcasts, blogs, vlogs, and other online and inter-based campaign platforms: within thirty (30) calendar days after the filing of the COCs until 13 December 2024

Elections in the Digital Age

As we move into this election season firmly rooted in the digital age, COMELEC has recognized the crucial need for updated measures and has issued Resolution No. 11064, which introduces vital new guidelines. These updates are specifically designed to enhance transparency, accessibility, and security in a time where digital advancements significantly influence the election process. With growing reliance on technology, ensuring the integrity of the automated election system and protecting voter data have never been more important. Among its key updates are the following:

• Registration of official online platforms: All official social media accounts and pages, websites, podcasts, blogs, vlogs, and other online and inter-based campaign platforms of candidates shall be registered with the Education and Information Department (EID) within thirty (30) calendar days after the filing of the COCs until 13 December 2024.
• Disclosure and disclaimer requirements: All election propaganda and campaign materials that utilize artificial intelligence technology shall be disclosed.
• Prohibited acts: use of false amplifiers such as fake accounts, bots, and astroturf groups filled with fake users to propagate disinformation and misinformation in endorsing or campaigning against a candidate; coordinated inauthentic behavior and utilization of hyperactive users for the same purposes; creation and dissemination of deepfakes, cheap fakes, and soft fakes for the same purposes; use of fake and unregistered social media accounts during the election and campaign period for the same purposes; creation and dissemination of fake news; and use of content produced through artificial intelligence technology but without compliance to the transparency and disclosure requirements.

Why We Should Vote

Voting is one of the most powerful tools we have to shape the future of our nation. As we approach the 2025 midterm elections, it’s crucial to stay informed, exercise your right, and make your vote count. By choosing leaders who represent our values and create meaningful change, you strengthen our democracy and ensure your voice is heard. 

Candidates seeking assistance with registering their official online platforms can reach out to our firm for expert guidance on campaign compliance and building a strong digital presence. 

Every vote matters, including yours!

Prepared by Cheza Marie Biliran.

FOOTNOTES

1. Sec. 3 of the Omnibus Election Code.