A total of 104 organizations have submitted their respective manifestations to participate in the party-list race for the May 2025 midterm elections, according to a statement released by the Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Thursday. The list includes Sectoral Parties, Sectoral Organizations, Political Parties, and Coalitions of Political Parties that have filed their Manifestation of Intent (MIP) to Participate in the Party-List System of Representation Elections.
It is important to note that the list provided by the Comelec is not yet final and will undergo scrutiny by the poll body. The final list will be subject to the rulings of the Commission and will be updated by the Clerk of the Commission. The current list only includes organizations that filed their MIP until December 29, 2023. According to the law, groups aspiring to participate in the party-list polls must file their Manifestation with the Comelec.
Comelec spokesman John Rex Laudiangco emphasized the ongoing nature of the process, stating, “This is only a list of those who filed MIP until 12/29/23. The final list is subject to the rulings of the Commission and for updating of the Clerk of the Commission.” The Comelec’s careful review ensures that the selection process is fair and transparent.
Comelec Chairman George Garcia highlighted an important requirement for organizations looking to join the party-list polls. He stated that each organization should only file one MIP. If multiple MIPs are submitted, it signifies internal conflict within the organization. In such cases, the Comelec will intervene to resolve any intra-party disputes.
Among the organizations that have filed their MIPs are Kasama — Kasama Regional Political Party, Sulong Dignidad — Sulong Dignidad Regional Political Party, ACT-CIS — Anti-Crime and Terrorism-Community Involvement and Support Inc., Tulungan Tayo — Tulungan Tayo, and DIWA Party-list — Democratic Independent Workers Association Party-list. These organizations represent a diverse range of sectors and political ideologies, reflecting the broad spectrum of interests in the upcoming elections.
It is worth noting that the submission of MIPs is only the first step in the party-list election process. The next crucial step is the submission of party-list nominees, which may be done at a later date. The nominees play a vital role in representing the interests of their respective organizations and advocating for their causes.
The party-list system of representation in the Philippines aims to ensure that marginalized and underrepresented sectors have a voice in the country’s legislative process. It provides an avenue for organizations representing various sectors, such as labor, youth, women, and indigenous peoples, to participate in the democratic process and contribute to the formulation of laws and policies.
As the Comelec continues to review the submitted MIPs and prepares for the next steps in the party-list election process, it is essential that the selection process remains fair, transparent, and reflective of the diverse voices and interests of the Filipino people. The participation of a wide range of organizations in the party-list race for the May 2025 midterm elections is a testament to the vibrancy of Philippine democracy and the commitment of various sectors to make their voices heard.
Source: The Manila Times
