Didn’t Care, But Now Do

In Davao City, where tricycles and jeepneys zoom past sari-sari stores and students laugh on the way home, something big is happening. It’s election season again. Posters are everywhere, campaign songs are playing, and people are starting to talk about who’s running, who’s honest, who’s not.

But not everyone is excited. Some still say, “Politics? I don’t really care.”

There was a time when someone else said that too. A young person who believed politics didn’t matter. As long as school was okay, the family was safe, and life went on, what’s the point of joining rallies or caring about who gets elected?

This young person thought politics was just for noisy adults, boring debates, and endless drama on TV. They didn’t realize that the price of rice, the quality of their school, even the safety of their neighborhood was shaped by politics.

But time passed. Things changed.

Storms come and the flood gets worse every year. Internet keep lagging even when bills are paid on time. Friends move away because they couldn’t find jobs. News online feel confusing, and family arguments start over fake stories.

Suddenly, it is clear: everything is political. And silence doesn’t protect you. In fact, it sometimes makes things worse.

So, that same young person started asking questions. Started listening. Reading. Joining discussions. Watching debates. And eventually registered to vote.

It felt like a small thing at first — lining up, filling out forms, waiting for your name to be called. But it was a big step. A statement. A promise: I’m here. I’m paying attention now. I want to be part of the solution.

You might be wondering whose story this is.

It’s mine.

I was that young person who didn’t care before. I thought politics had nothing to do with me. But now, I see how deeply it affects everything. I am part of the generation I used to ignore. And this time, I’m showing up — not just to vote, but to be involved, to stay aware, and to help others do the same.

Because the truth is, it’s not too late. Not for me. Not for you. Not for any of us.

This coming election and every one after let’s vote not just because we have to, but because we want to. Because we understand. Because we believe.

Let’s vote not for those who are simply popular, but for those who are truly prepared — leaders with clear plans, real solutions, and the courage to follow through.

Not just for those who speak well, but for those who act well.

Not just for those who make us feel good, but for those who will do good consistently, selflessly, and with integrity.

Let’s choose leaders who don’t just see us as votes to win, but as voices to listen to; partners in progress, citizens with power.

Because real leadership is not about power over people, but service with the people.

And remember: hope doesn’t begin at the top.

It starts at the grassroots — with us.

With every informed choice, every honest conversation, every courageous stand.

This election, let’s rise above the noise.

Let’s choose wisely. Let’s choose with purpose. Because our future depend it. (Desire Rendon | HCDC Intern)