BBM tells public: Vote responsibly

AS MILLIONS HEAD TO POLLS

- Mitchelle Palaubsanon, Kristin de Dios, Staff Members Helen Flores, Philippine Star News Service

As more than 4.3 million voters across Cebu and Bohol head to the polls today, President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos urged Filipinos to uphold the country's democratic values by exercising their right to vote in the 2025 National and Local Elections.

In a video message released Sunday, Marcos urged the public to participate responsibly in the elections, describing it as both a right and a civic duty.

"My fellow countrymen, in this elections, let us exercise our rights and fulfill our responsibilities as Filipino citizens," the President said. "This is an opportunity to hear everyone's voice and express the dreams that are important to you and the nation."

He emphasized that while differing views are a cornerstone of democracy, these should not lead to discord or fear.

"We fight for our future through the ballots not in the streets, not through violence," he added, calling on voters to choose leaders with "integrity, compassion, and genuine capacity to serve."

The President also reminded candidates to honor the process and show dignity, noting that the elections are not just about winning but ensuring peace and respect for the people's will.

To support this democratic exercise, the government has declared May 12 a special non-working holiday through Proclamation 878. Marcos is expected to vote in his home province of Ilocos Norte.

REGION 7

In Central Visayas, over 4.3 million registered voters are expected to vote today-3,407,780 in Cebu and 981,564 in Bohol according to Commission on Elections (COMELEC)-7 Regional Director Atty. Francisco Pobe.

Pobe expressed hope that voting would conclude early to allow for the prompt proclamation of winning candidates.

When asked about winning candidates with pending disqualification complaints, he said they would have to wait for a resolution from their head office in Manila.