THEY grew up watching presidents go viral for the wrong reasons, lawmakers argue on livestreams, and influencers endorse candidates like products. 

For Gen Z— the generation that came of age alongside the internet— politics isn’t confined to rallies or televised debates. It’s something that unfolds in their phones and demands their attention. 

As more of them prepare to vote in the upcoming elections, they are branded by some as the game changers. But what exactly are they looking for in a candidate? 

Republicasia interviewed some Gen Z voters to understand the traits, values, and leadership styles they believe deserve their votes. 

‘Money Politics’ doesn’t work on us

“I would vote for a candidate who doesn’t rely on money politics,” said Maria Carla “MC” Lumingkit, a 24-year old Multimedia Designer. 

“Money Politics” is a system where the candidate uses their wealth or ‘money’ to influence voters or gain political power. It has deep-roots in the electoral practices in the Philippines, where vote-buying, campaign-spending, and patronage are used as tactics to secure political control. 

In fact, a recent OCTA Research poll found out that 66 percent of Filipino registered voters believe that vote-buying will be rampant this upcoming election. 

This growing distrust of the political system, especially among younger generations like MC, highlights a demand for greater accountability and authentic leadership. For them, a candidate who spends excessively during the election is seen as someone likely to recoup those costs once in office—often at the expense of the people. 

It’s a cycle of corruption that Gen Z is increasingly unwilling to tolerate.

“Saan sila kumukuha ng perang pangampanya? Papaano nila maibabalik ‘yung perang ginamit nila?” asked MC pointedly, expressing her skepticism. 

She was directly questioning the motives behind the massive spending in political campaigns.

“Action agad, hindi salita.”

Cut the Drama, Bring the Plans

Gen Z has witnessed enough drama and spectacle in the political arena, and now, they’re ready for a change.

For Kim Tividad, 24, the government should be about real solutions, not a stage for political theatrics.

“They should prioritize the needs of the people first before addressing their own issues and controversies,” she said. 

Kim’s statement reflects the growing frustration among young voters who are increasingly disillusioned with political games. 

For decades, old rivalries and political dynasties continue to clash. Family feuds and power struggles have always taken the center stage at the expense of actual governance. 

For Kim and the other voters, the old guard’s drama is no longer acceptable. What they’re looking for are leaders who could set aside petty grievances to work for the larger and more immediate concerns of the nation. 

“My ideal candidate is someone who doesn’t lean solely on one party— dapat kaya niyang makipag-work with the opposition,” said Kim. 

Like MC, she also emphasized the importance of providing concrete platforms over empty promises. 

“I prefer someone na may nakalatag nang platforms once elected,” she added. 

This means that even before gaining a seat, the candidate must present some solid plans if they want to harvest the Gen Zs’ support. 

No to Secrets, Yes to Progress

The political landscape in the Philippines has long been marred by issues of graft and corruption, lack of accountability, and political dynasties. 

As Gen Zs become more discerning, they demand transparency and integrity from the candidates. 

“I define a good candidate as someone who has a clean track record,” said Louis Angelo Samson, 24, and currently taking up graduate studies in Real Estate Management. 

For Louis, this goes beyond simply staying clear of shady government activities; it also means having a strong track record of competence and effectively doing the job at hand.

“Hindi involve sa kalokohan ng government, hindi abusado, at hindi pabaya sa trabaho,” he elaborated. 

Moreover, Louis seeks candidates who embody the values he holds dear and address the issues that resonate with most Gen Z voters.

Like, for example, gender issues. 

“Dapat mas mapagtuunan ng pansin ang same-sex marriage para maging progressive country tayo, gaya ng ibang country sa Asia,” shared Louis. 

Despite his stance on same-sex marriage, Louis remains open to voting for candidates who may not share his views, as long as they have a clean track record and a proven ability to lead effectively.

No to Clout, Yes to Core

Jaclyn Lim, 25, is a teacher. For her, it’s time that Gen Z voters skip the performative politics. 

“Focus on what is important for the seasons,” said Jaclyn. “Marami kasing may eme na di naman important and won’t really add value sa PH.”

She said, “I want leaders to stand up for what is right. Especially protecting the vulnerable, fighting corruption, and making sure families and communities can thrive.”

For her, the foundation of good leadership is built on something simple but rare: integrity. 

“I look for leaders who respect life, promote justice, and make fair decisions for everyone and not just their supporters,” Jaclyn added. 

Performative politics has long been part of the country’s political landscape. Candidates focus on viral soundbites, social media campaigns, or making appearances in disaster-stricken areas—sometimes with little to no follow-through. 

Many voters have grown weary of this, especially those in the younger generations who crave more authenticity and long-term impact.

In a noisy political arena full of theatrics and empty promises, Jaclyn stands firm: she’s done with distractions. She’s voting for a purpose.

A Dream for the Nation

Gen Zs almost always find themselves at odds with the generations before them— mocked for being too idealistic, too demanding, too entitled. 

Their calls for transparency, inclusivity, and accountability are sometimes deemed as too naïve or disruptive, especially for a culture that shuns confrontation. 

But behind the noise, behind the clash of the new and older generations, is a truth that transcends age:

We all want a better Philippines. 

The dream expressed by Gen Z isn’t empty or idealistic. It’s a dream shared by everyone who’s ever hoped for honest governance, safer communities, and a future where no one is left behind. Their youth shouldn’t be an excuse to hinder them from desiring a future that is built on empathy, accountability, and empathy. 

We may come from different eras, but we are looking at the same horizon.