Taxonomy of Impressions on Political Ecology Among Abrenian Youth: A Challenge to Academic Integrity and Future Voter Education Program

Abstract

Lemyrose B. Balmaceda, Ed. D..

This study aims to determine the taxonomy of impressions on political ecology among the Abrenian Youth: a challenge to academic integrity and future voter education program. Specifically, it aims to determine the respondents’ concept of a clean and honest election; respondents’ experiences, impressions and observations in the political ecology of Abra; respondents’ targeted participation in the 2019 Midterm election and their corresponding expectations from the elected officials; and, the areas in the curriculum where topics and electoral-related activities focused on voter education are integrated.
This study utilized the quantitative-qualitative method and is descriptive in nature. There are 103 respondents whose ages range from 18 – 22, comprised of 22 males and 81 females and are first-time electorates. The gathering of data was conducted from March 11 – 27, 2019, few weeks before the election time.
This study utilized a researcher-made questionnaire to elicit answers from respondents. Focus group discussion was done during the conduct of the survey. Frequency counts and computed percentages were used in presenting the data.
The following are the findings: 1). The following are the definitions of the respondents of a clean and honest election: A clean and honest election is when there is NO vote buying and NO vote selling; when vote is casted without being dictated and without pressure; when one can freely vote for the candidate who is honest, humble, dedicated qualified for the position, and, who can be of help to the people; When during the election period, there are NO killings, threatening, harassment/coercion, fraud/cheating during canvassing nor blackmailing; When the candidates humbly accept defeat and respect and support the one who wins, do not destroy other candidates’ reputation during campaign, fulfill platforms presented during the campaign period, follow COMELEC guidelines, and, practice healthy competition; and, when the people in the community are united and of healthy relationships, disciplined, not divided according to political affiliations, and are honest, understanding, and loving; 2). A negative impression on the political ecology of Abra is posed by the respondents. They consider Abra not peaceful during election due to rampant vote buying; and siblings, relatives and neighborhood are found forming rivalries due to differences in political views; 3). The respondents posed positive actions to be undertaken in the attainment of a clean and honest election like exercising their right of suffrage, protecting the sanctity of the election, and serving the best way they can. In like manner, they expect the elected officials of an excellent leadership, strict implementation of peace and order, and a model of good behavior as public servant; and, 4). Very few respondents cited.