Halalan 2025: Your vote will shape your financial future so choose wisely

As the Halalan 2025 or the Philippine mid-term election approaches, it's important for voters to understand how our choices affect our financial future. The officials we elect will shape and implement policies that influence economic stability, taxation, social welfare programs, and more.

So, before casting our ballots, let’s familiarize ourselves with the candidates' platforms and track records so we can make informed decisions at the polls. Let’s elect leaders who prioritize the nation's financial health and prosperity.

Points to consider when choosing your candidates

1. Understand their economic policies

Economic policies are important in shaping a country's financial state. When choosing candidates, look for those with clear plans for keeping the economy stable and growing, including fair wages, job creation, controlling inflation, and supporting small businesses. Consider how they plan to tackle income inequality and provide opportunities for all communities. Inclusive policies can lead to a stronger and more stable economy for everyone.

2. Views on taxation and public spending

Tax policies directly affect your income and financial health. Candidates have different ideas on taxes, which will impact how much of your earnings you keep and how public funds are used. Compare their tax plans, use online tools to see how the changes would affect your income. Choose candidates whose tax policies best match your financial interests.

3. Social welfare assistance

Programs like unemployment benefits, healthcare, and social security are vital for financial security, especially during tough economic times. Look at candidates' plans for these programs and how they aim to support them. By voting, you can help make sure these programs provide enough support for those who need it.

4. Addressing education and workforce concerns

Investing in education and workforce development is crucial for financial security. Officials decide on school funding, vocational training, and higher education policies. Vote for candidates who focus on these areas, and propose financial assistance and scholarships, so everyone has access to better job opportunities and higher income.

5. Healthcare program proposals

Healthcare costs can be a big financial burden. Government policies on affordable healthcare can directly impact your out-of-pocket costs and overall financial health. Look at the healthcare plans suggested by different candidates and think about how they will affect your expenses. Support candidates who want to make healthcare more affordable and easier to access.

6. Retirement and pension enhancements

Retirement security is a major concern, especially for seniors and retirees who face reduced income and increased health concerns. Policies on pensions, social security, and retirement savings are shaped by elected officials. Choose leaders who will protect and enhance these programs.

7. Public order and safety

Public safety and economic opportunities are closely linked. Crime affects both cities and rural areas, and a lack of job opportunities often leads to crime. Good public safety policies are essential for economic stability, creating safe environments where businesses can grow, and communities can thrive.

Look at candidates' public safety plans, paying attention to accountability and prevention strategies that tackle the root causes of crime, such as job programs, support for those returning from prison, and services for crime victims.

8. Transportation policies

Transportation policies can boost the economy by making it easier for people to get to their jobs and access services. Efficient systems also reduce business costs and enhance supply chain reliability. Review candidates' transportation plans for affordable fares, reduced traffic congestion, and economic benefits.

9. Agriculture and food sustainability

Agricultural policies are vital for economic stability, supporting farmers and rural areas while ensuring a reliable food supply. Assess candidates' agricultural plans, focusing on those who advocate for supportive policies. Voting for such candidates can enhance rural financial security and keep food prices affordable for everyone.

10. Consider their stance on power, energy and utilities

Policies around power, energy, and water are critical for our economy as they influence utility costs, job creation, and environmental sustainability. Support leaders who advocate sustainable energy policies to ensure lower utility costs, more jobs, and a resilient economy.

11. Disaster management

The Philippines faces frequent natural disasters, including typhoons and earthquakes. Candidates focused on disaster management will likely improve disaster preparedness, response, and recovery by investing in early warning systems, resilient infrastructure, and emergency resources to protect citizens.

Voting is a powerful tool

Voting is a powerful tool that allows us to influence our nation's direction and ensure our voices are heard. Exercise your right to vote and actively shape policies that affect the country's wellbeing and financial future.

Take an active role in your own financial future

Beyond voting, you can take steps right now to protect your financial future, no matter the election results. One such step is getting an insurance plan like FWD Set for Life Plus. This plan offers life protection, investment opportunities, bonuses to increase your benefits, and options for critical illness coverage, ensuring you are protected against life's uncertainties.

For breadwinners and those just starting out, a plan like SmartStart and SmartStart Lite can give you a head start towards your best future with life coverage, access to investments and health protection.

By adding insurance to your financial plan, you build a strong safety net that helps keep your finances stable and gives you peace of mind – no matter the political landscape.

Take charge of your financial future today by looking into insurance options that match your long-term goals and give you the security you deserve.