Pulsong Paulino 2025: Engaging Paulinians in Voter Awareness and Shared Responsibility for the Midterm Elections
Stephanie Jacob | The Paulinian
In preparation for the upcoming national and local midterm elections, The Paulinian, in collaboration with the Paulinian Student Government (PSG), launched Pulsong Paulino: 2025 Midterm Mock Election—an initiative aimed at promoting political awareness and responsible voting among the Paulinian community, held on April 22-30, 2025.
The online event gathered participation from college students, faculty, and staff. More than a simulated voting experience, the mock election served as a platform for education, reflection, and community engagement.
Ms. Judith Alderete, Head of the Student Affairs Office and Moderator of the Supreme Student Council, shared that the initiative was designed not only to simulate the voting process but also to encourage critical thinking among students before casting their votes.
“The mock election was conceptualized as an educational tool. Honestly, we wanted to conduct it before and after the Voters’ Education seminar to see if students’ choices would shift once they were more informed,” Ms. Alderete explained. “Often, people are swayed by others’ opinions without taking the time to reflect on their own. This initiative was meant to challenge that tendency.”
She stressed the importance of breaking away from the passive “bahala na” attitude when it comes to national issues. “That kind of thinking is dangerous,” she said. “We want students, as well as the employees, to be more mindful and intent on their votes. Values must remain at the core of our decisions.”
While not all issues in the electoral process can be resolved immediately, Ms. Alderete believes that the university can still be a guiding force. “We may not be able to change everything, especially outside our institution, but we can set an example within. Through this project, we aim to help the students and employees develop a sense of responsibility when choosing our leaders.”
She added that the event also underscored the role of faith and preparation in the electoral process. “It’s not just about the mechanics of voting. We hope this reminds everyone that our choices should be guided by thought, prayer, and values—similar to the solemnity of a conclave. Elections should be treated with that same seriousness.”
Beyond awareness, the mock election also fostered a strong sense of community. “There is strength in unity,” Ms. Alderete said. “Seeing both students and employees take part in this initiative reflects the shared hope we have for a better future. It’s good to do this together.”
