“We all know the influence young celebrities have over their legions of fans,” Jan-Argy Tolentino, Secretary General and Spokesperson of KALIPI, said. “What we’re asking is that these teen idols encourage young people to vote this coming May.”

Tolentino emphasized that the youth – comprising somewhere between 30 – 40% of the country’s total population – could very well tip the balance in favor of more principled politics. “If the youth only voted as a bloc for politicians that could reform the political culture of the country, then people who truly mean well would be able to directly contribute to the betterment of the Philippines.”

“Active youth group like KALIPI should convince the youth to go out and vote, to exercise their right and responsibility to choose their leaders,” Eric Caliboso, Executive Director of Center for Liberal Leadership, said. “The problem is most young people think that voting is either a useless endeavor or don’t care at all. What they don’t know is their votes are statements for the kind of politics and leaders they want the country to have.”

Caliboso pointed out that it is here that young celebrities could use their influence over their fans to encourage voting on May. “The trust accorded to these celebrities by their fans should make them at least reconsider exercising their right to vote. If more young people participate in the elections this year, then that’s already a big step to reforming our political culture.” (end)