ABSTRACT
This study examined voter behavior and political participation in Bagamanoc, Catanduanes using a descriptive quantitative design. It assessed voter demographics, political awareness, participation levels, barriers, and their relationship to civic involvement through a survey of 100 registered voters analyzed with descriptive statistics and chi-square tests. Results showed that most voters were young, single, college-educated, and from low-income households. Political awareness and participation were moderate, with consistent voting but limited involvement in campaigns. Barriers like transportation were minimal, while vote-buying and political intimidation remained moderate concerns. Significant associations were found between engagement and age, sex, civil status, education, and income. To address gaps, a multi-sectoral intervention was proposed, including voter education, anti-vote-buying campaigns, logistical support, and youth-focused programs to strengthen democratic engagement.
Keywords: barriers to participation, civic engagement, demographic profile, electoral engagement, itervention plan
INTRODUCTION
Elections are a cornerstone of democratic systems, providing citizens with the vital opportunity to exercise their right to vote and choose their leaders. The legitimacy and stability of democratic governance heavily rely on voter engagement, which reflects public interest and trust in the political system. In the Philippines, voter turnout and political participation have exhibited considerable variation across regions, often influenced by a combination of social, economic, and cultural factors. Understanding these variations was essential to grasping the broader implications for democratic development in the country.
The municipality of Bagamanoc in the province of Catanduanes offered a distinct context for examining voter behavior and political participation. Situated in a geographically isolated area and facing persistent socioeconomic challenges, Bagamanoc presented unique conditions that might have influenced how its citizens engaged with the electoral process.
Additionally, the interplay between traditional political structures and emerging modern influences added complexity to the local political landscape. These factors made Bagamanoc a compelling case for exploring the deeper dynamics behind electoral engagement in rural communities.
This study aimed to explore the factors that shaped voter behavior and political participation in Bagamanoc, Catanduanes. By analyzing the social, economic, and cultural dimensions of electoral engagement in this locality, the research aimed to provide valuable insights into the motivations and barriers that influence voter activity. Ultimately, the study aimed to contribute to a broader understanding of electoral dynamics in rural Philippine settings and to inform initiatives that promote active civic participation and strengthen democratic processes at the grassroots level.
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