The Power of the Youth Vote: Electoral Preferences in Samar

The Power of the Youth Vote: Electoral Preferences in Samar

*ALEGRO, Jasper D., CABAGUING, Abigail., CARCELLAR, Ma. Nemia C., NABLO, Hassam Ray A., QUINA, Charmaine R

College of Arts and Sciences, Samar State University, Catbalogan City, Samar, Philippines

*Corresponding Author

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.47772/IJRISS.2025.909000195

Received: 24 September 2025; Accepted: 30 September 2025; Published: 04 October 2025

ABSTRACT

Youth voters in Samar play a pivotal role in shaping local electoral outcomes, yet their decision-making is influenced by a complex interplay of social, economic, and political conditions. As an important electoral force, their participation has the potential to drive political change, making it essential to understand how they navigate the voting process. This qualitative study employs thematic analysis research design to explore the experiences of electoral preferences and understand how they assess and select political local candidates. Through semi-structured interviews with 15 participants, the study identifies four major themes: (1) Youth Voters’ Preferences and Political Views, (2) Process and Criteria in Selecting Local Candidates, (3) Community Concerns that Influence Voter Preferences, and (4) Sources of Information on Local Candidates. Findings reveal that while family remains a foundational influence in early political socialization, youth voters gradually develop independent perspectives through peer interactions, social media engagement, and exposure to local governance issues. Socioeconomic concerns, candidate integrity, and the prevalence of misinformation significantly shape voter preferences. The study underscores the need for enhanced voter education, media literacy initiatives, and civic engagement programs to foster informed and active youth participation in the democratic process.

Keywords: youth voters; electoral preferences; qualitative study

INTRODUCTION

In recent years, the study of electoral preferences has garnered increasing attention in political discourse worldwide. Electoral decision-making is shaped by a complex interplay of political structures, socio-economic conditions, and historical contexts. Understanding how voters make choices is crucial for strengthening democratic processes and governance. In the Philippines, electoral dynamics are deeply embedded in historical and socio-political realities, where factors such as political dynasties, patronage politics, and economic disparities significantly influence voter preferences [1][2]. In regions like Samar, these dynamics present unique challenges and offer critical insights into the nature of local political participation.

Historically, Philippine elections have been characterized by strong familial and regional loyalties that often shape voter preferences [3]. In Samar, political culture has evolved through the influence of traditional power structures, economic dependencies, and grassroots mobilization efforts. While national and international frameworks advocate for democratic participation and electoral reforms, local political environments continue to reflect deeply entrenched social and economic patterns that affect voter preferences.

Current scholarly discussions on electoral preferences frequently highlight the role of political party affiliations, economic incentives, candidate reputation, and voter education [4]. While policy platforms and leadership qualities are essential determinants, voters in local settings are also influenced by personal relationships, historical affiliations, and perceptions of governance effectiveness [3]. Recent research further supports these insights, particularly among younger Individuals. For instance, a scoping review by [5] identified social media engagement, peer influence, political ideology, candidate characteristics, socioeconomic status, and educational background as major determinants of young Filipino voters’ preferences. Similarly, [6] found that Generation Z in the Philippines are heavily influenced by political content circulating on social media platforms, which directly shapes their perceptions of leaders, policy issues, and electoral choices. Complementing these findings, the fifth Young Adult Fertility and Sexuality Study [7] revealed that 78% of youth aged 18–24 were registered to vote, with 94% of them expressing intent to participate in both national and local elections, although many simultaneously displayed conservative views on social issues. Among these dynamics, the role of youth as a pivotal electoral force has gained prominence. According to the Commission on Elections [8], youth voters constitute a significant portion of the Philippine electorate, underscoring their potential to influence electoral outcomes substantially. Moreover, youth engagement in political processes reflects evolving patterns of civic participation driven by digital activism, educational attainment, and heightened political awareness.

Despite the growing body of literature on voting preferences, there remains a gap in research focused specifically on Samar, where unique socio-political conditions shape electoral decisions in ways that may diverge from broader national trends. This research aims to explore the experiences and preferences of youth voters in Samar to understand how they assess and select local political candidates. The study seeks to address the following research questions: (1) How do youth voters in Samar perceive local candidates? (2) What are the primary determinants that influence youth voters’ electoral preferences in Samar?

By analyzing localized electoral dynamics, this research seeks to contribute to the broader discourse on political participation and representation in the Philippines. Theoretically, it aims to enrich existing models of voter preferences by incorporating insights from Samar’s political landscape. Methodologically, the study underscores the importance of qualitative approaches in capturing the complexity of electoral preferences. Practically, its findings could provide valuable insights for policymakers, electoral bodies, and civil society organizations in designing voter education programs and political reforms that reflect local realities, ultimately fostering more informed and participatory electoral processes.

METHOD

This study is qualitative in nature and employed in-depth interviews as its primary data collection method, complemented by thematic analysis for data interpretation. This design is particularly suited for examining youth voters’ electoral preferences by exploring their lived experiences and personal interpretations of political decision-making. Rather than imposing predefined categories, thematic analysis enables the identification of recurring patterns and meaningful themes that emerge directly from the data, providing a flexible yet rigorous approach to understanding participant narratives. In-depth interviews, as described by [9], are a qualitative technique that allows researchers to capture participants’ perspectives, experiences, and meanings in rich detail. This combination of methods facilitates a deeper and more nuanced understanding of the beliefs, attitudes, and motivations that shape electoral choices among youth voters in Samar within their specific socio-political contexts.

By exploring real-life experiences, this study seeks to identify key themes that influence voter preferences through thematic analysis. These themes were generated inductively, emerging from participants’ narratives and later refined in relation to relevant literature on electoral behavior. This method ensures a coherent integration of data-driven insights and established theoretical perspectives in political and social research. The use of thematic analysis allows for a nuanced examination of how youth voters interpret and articulate their electoral choices, offering a rich and context-sensitive understanding of the phenomenon [8].

Participants

The study employed purposive sampling, selecting participants who met the following criteria: (1) aged 15–30 years, (2) residing in Samar, and (3) having voting eligibility or experience. The age range was chosen as individuals aged 15–17 who can vote in the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections, while those 18 and above are eligible for local and national elections under [10], which governs youth participation in governance. Purposive sampling ensures that participants possess relevant experiences and insights concerning electoral preferences, allowing for a more targeted exploration of the research questions [9] (See Table 1.)

Table 1. Demographic Profile of Participants

*Voting experience refers to participation in Sangguniang Kabataan (SK), local, or national elections.

Data Collection

Data for this study were collected through semi-structured interviews, which facilitated open-ended discussions while allowing researchers to probe specific themes [9]. Recruitment of the participants was conducted in coordination with local barangay officials, youth organizations, and student councils. Announcements were also disseminated in community centers, universities, and online youth forums to invite volunteers.

Individuals were screened following the inclusion criteria. From the pool, 15 participants were selected to capture diverse perspectives across gender, educational background, and municipality. Prior to data collection, informed consent was obtained, and confidentiality was maintained through the use of pseudonyms and anonymized demographic reporting.

An interview guide was developed to explore participants’ perceptions of political candidates, voting motivations, and contextual influences on their electoral preferences. To ensure content validity, the guide was reviewed and verified by two experts in political science and qualitative research before data collection. All interviews were conducted in a secure and confidential setting to ensure participants felt comfortable sharing their views without fear of repercussions. Each interview was audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and anonymized to preserve data integrity and participant confidentiality.

Data Analysis

This study adopted [11] six-phase framework for thematic analysis: (1) familiarization with the data, (2) generating initial codes, (3) searching for themes, (4) reviewing themes, (5) defining and naming themes, and (6) producing the final report.

A coding schema was developed inductively from the transcripts and refined through multiple iterations. Initial codes included categories such as Youth Voters’ Preferences and Political Views, Process and Criteria in Selecting Local Candidates, Community Concerns that Influence Youth Voters’ Preferences and Sources of Information on Local Candidates. These codes were organized into higher-order themes representing the broader factors influencing youth electoral preferences. A structured codebook was created, which contained operational definitions, inclusion and exclusion criteria, and illustrative quotes for each code. This ensured transparency and consistency in the coding process.

To enhance rigor, five researchers independently coded the same subset of transcripts during the initial round of analysis. Coding discrepancies were discussed collectively and resolved through consensus, resulting in an intercoder agreement rate of approximately 85%. Once agreement was established, the full dataset was coded. The codebook was updated throughout the process to reflect refinements in theme development.

An audit trail was maintained, documenting coding decisions, theme revisions, and researcher reflections. Additionally, peer debriefing was conducted with academic colleagues to minimize individual bias, while member checking allowed participants to verify the accuracy of interpretations. These strategies strengthened the credibility, dependability, and confirmability of the analysis.

Measures Of Trustworthiness

Credibility

In this study, credibility was ensured through triangulation, involving data collection from interviews and observations to cross-verify findings [12]. By gathering data from multiple sources, this study ensured that findings were not solely reliant on one perspective but rather reflected a well-rounded understanding of youth voter preferences in Samar. Additionally, member checking was conducted by sharing preliminary findings with participants to validate the accuracy of interpretations, allowing participants to confirm or clarify the meanings attributed to their responses. Peer debriefing with academic colleagues and experts further strengthened the credibility of the study’s findings by ensuring that the analysis remained objective and reflective of the participants’ experiences.

Transferability

To enhance transferability, the study provided detailed descriptions of the research context, including the socio-political landscape of Samar, electoral processes, and voter perceptions. These in-depth descriptions allow readers to assess the relevance of the findings to other similar contexts, particularly those in regions with comparable political and socio-economic conditions [13]. By presenting rich, contextualized narratives, this study ensures that its insights can be applied beyond the immediate research setting, offering value to future studies on youth voter preferences in other localities.

Dependability

To ensure dependability, an audit trail was maintained, documenting all research procedures, data collection processes, and analytical decisions. This transparent documentation enables future researchers to trace the steps taken in this study, enhancing its reproducibility and reliability. The study employed a code-recode strategy, where data were coded at different intervals to enhance consistency and reliability [14]. This approach ensured that the coding and thematic analysis process remained stable and that any discrepancies were addressed through systematic verification.

Intercoder agreement procedures were implemented. Three members of the research team independently coded an initial subset of transcripts, after which discrepancies were identified and discussed until consensus was reached. This process refined the coding schema and improved consistency across the analysis. The intercoder agreement was calculated at approximately 85%, which falls within acceptable thresholds for qualitative research reliability [15]. Once agreement was established, the finalized codebook was applied to the full dataset.

Confirmability

Confirmability was established through reflexivity, where researchers documented their biases and assumptions to minimize their influence on the study. Reflexive journaling was employed to critically examine potential biases that could shape data interpretation. Additionally, a confirmability audit was conducted, allowing external reviewers to assess whether the findings were grounded in the data rather than influenced by researcher perspectives. By incorporating these practices, the study ensured that its conclusions were drawn from participants’ experiences rather than researcher subjectivity.

Researcher positionality was also explicitly considered. The research team, composed of faculty members and graduate students in the social sciences at Samar State University, recognized that their academic training and civic engagement background could influence how data were interpreted. To address this, the team engaged in reflexive discussions and maintained positionality statements throughout the research process. These steps made explicit the potential influence of researcher backgrounds while reinforcing the study’s commitment to grounding interpretations in participants’ voices.

Ethical Consideration

This study adhered to strict ethical standards to protect the rights and welfare of participants. Confidentiality, informed consent, and voluntary participation were key ethical principles upheld throughout the research process.

Confidentiality refers to the protection of participants’ personal information and responses. To maintain confidentiality, pseudonyms were assigned to participants, and any identifiable information was removed from the final research report. All data were securely stored with restricted access, ensuring that only authorized researchers could access them. Data encryption and password protection were implemented to further safeguard participant information from unauthorized access or breaches. These measures safeguarded participants’ privacy and minimized the risk of unintended disclosure.

Informed consent involves providing participants with clear and comprehensive information about the study before they decide to participate. Participants were informed about the study’s objectives, procedures, potential risks, and benefits. They were given the opportunity to ask questions, and their participation was only secured after they voluntarily signed a consent form. To ensure comprehension, researchers reiterated key points of the consent form before the interview. This process ensured that participants fully understood their involvement and that their decision to participate was made without coercion.

Voluntary participation means that participants were not forced or pressured to take part in the study. They had the right to withdraw at any time without facing any negative consequences. Given the political nature of the study, additional precautions were taken to ensure that participants felt safe and comfortable expressing their views without fear of repercussions. Participants were reminded of their right to withdraw before, during, and after the interviews. Interviews were conducted in private or neutral locations, and measures were implemented to prevent any form of coercion or undue influence.

Ethical approval was obtained from the appropriate institutional review board, ensuring that the study complied with ethical guidelines for human research. These measures collectively reinforced the integrity of the study while safeguarding the rights and confidentiality of all participants.

RESULTS

The study identified four major themes from the data analyses: (1) Youth Voters’ Preferences and Political Views, (2) Process and Criteria in Selecting Local Candidates, (3) Community Concerns that Influence Voters’ Preferences, and (4) Sources of Information on Local Candidates. By exploring these themes, the study provides a comprehensive understanding of the determinants influencing youth voters’ political decision-making in Samar. The findings contribute to the broader discourse on electoral decision-making in local contexts, highlighting the interplay of personal values, socio-political realities, and media influence in shaping voter preferences. Saturation was reached with the fifteenth (15) participant, confirming that no new themes or insights emerged from the data, thereby affirming the adequacy of the sample size [11].  This selection process ensures that the study captures diverse perspectives among Samar’s youth voters, shedding light on the socio-political conditions influencing their electoral decisions.

Theme 1: Youth Voters’ Preferences and Political Views

This theme explores the determinants influencing youth voters’ political preferences, especially the roles played by family, peers, and the personal attributes of candidates. It emphasizes the dynamic between inherited political views and independent political awakening as youth voters develop their own perspectives.

Subtheme A: Family Influence on Political Preferences

Family plays a significant role in shaping the initial political preferences of youth voters. The values and political ideologies of parents often influence the political views of their children, particularly during early years. However, as youth mature, they often begin to form their own political opinions based on independent experiences and a critical understanding of the world around them.

“Growing up, my family was very politically active. My parents would talk about elections and candidates all the time, and that definitely influenced my early views. However, as I matured, I began to form my own opinions by considering the real issues faced by our community. I still discuss politics with my family, but now I approach it from a more independent perspective.”

“I always try to educate my family members about candidates and their policies. It’s crucial to provide them with accurate, unbiased information, so they can make well-informed decisions. Although my family influences my views, I try to balance that with personal research to ensure my preferences align with my values and the needs of our community.”

According to [16], family plays a critical role in the initial political socialization of youth, providing the foundation for early political beliefs. However, as youth grow older and become more involved in their own political environments, they often develop independent views, which is consistent with the observations of participants in the study.

Subtheme B: Peer Networks and Social Influence

Peer influence, particularly through social media and group discussions, is a major determinant shaping youth political preference. Social networks, both online and offline, provide spaces for young people to exchange ideas, share political opinions, and often challenge each other’s perspectives. These peer interactions can broaden their understanding, but they can also create pressures to conform to popular viewpoints.

“Social media is a double-edged sword. While it’s a powerful tool for engaging with others and staying informed, it’s also filled with misinformation. I see many of my peers sharing posts, and I tend to agree with their views, but I always double-check the facts from multiple sources. I think peer influence plays a significant role, especially in shaping how we view candidates, but it’s essential to think critically and avoid following the crowd without verification.”

“At the same time, I appreciate the diversity of opinions within my peer group. Peer influence can bring new perspectives, and I engage in discussions to better understand different viewpoints. However, I don’t let peer pressure dictate my vote. I rely on my own judgment after considering multiple opinions.”

According to [17], internet use has a profound impact on political engagement, especially for younger generations. While social media provides platforms for political discourse, it also introduces the risk of misinformation, a concern highlighted by the participants in the study. [18] further emphasized that while social networks are valuable in broadening political understanding, they also contribute to the spread of misinformation and political bias. The youth participants in this study demonstrate an awareness of this and make efforts to cross-check information, which is in line with [19], who stress the importance of media literacy in combating misinformation.

Subtheme C: Ethical Attributes of Candidates

Candidate attributes, such as integrity, leadership, and community engagement, are central to youth voter preferences. Youth voters often prioritize personal qualities over party affiliation, focusing on a candidate’s past actions, transparency, and empathy for community issues. They seek leaders who have demonstrated a history of integrity and are committed to enacting policies that will improve their lives.

“For me, the most important quality in a candidate is their integrity. A leader must be transparent and honest in their actions. It’s not enough to promise; they must show through their track record that they will follow through. Integrity, honesty, and the ability to build trust are essential in any leader.”

“When evaluating candidates, I consider their track record in the community—whether they have a history of genuine involvement and meaningful contributions. I need to see that their actions align with their promises. For example, candidates who have been actively involved in their communities before running for office demonstrate commitment and are more likely to gain my trust.”

“A candidate’s ability to empathize with the community is also important. If they understand the struggles people face and are willing to work towards solving those problems, it makes a big difference. I’m more likely to vote for someone who has a deep understanding of local issues and shows a willingness to be transparent and accountable.”

According to [19], youth often prefer candidates who demonstrate reliability and integrity, especially those who have a proven track record in public service. [20] further emphasizes that youth tend to prioritize candidates who can offer a clear, honest representation of their values and actions.

Subtheme D: Youth Voters’ Political Will

Political will refers to the shift from following inherited political beliefs to forming an independent, informed perspective on political issues. For many youth voters, this will develops through engagement with local issues and experiences that highlight the direct impact of policies on their lives. This process leads to a deeper understanding of the importance of voting as a means of influencing societal change.

“Initially, I followed the political views of my parents and community, but over time, I became more aware of how policies directly impact our daily lives. My political awakening happened when I started participating in community activities and realized that being an informed voter is essential for creating real change.”

“As I became more involved in local issues, my political understanding evolved. I started to see the importance of making independent, informed choices. It’s no longer just about following family traditions, but about ensuring that my vote supports candidates who will genuinely improve our community.”

According to [21], political will among youth often happens through active participation in local issues, leading to a shift from inherited political views to independent, informed decision-making. [22] found that this process of political maturation is often accompanied by greater engagement in the political process and more thoughtful decision-making.

Theme 2: Process And Criteria in Selecting Local Candidates

This theme explores how youth voters evaluate candidates, blending both rational evaluation and emotional connection to determine their preferences.

Subtheme A: Rational Evaluation

Youth voters evaluate candidates based on rational criteria, such as qualifications, leadership experience, and their stance on key issues. They focus on candidates’ track records and their ability to address community needs effectively, prioritizing practical solutions over party ideology.

“When selecting a candidate, I base my decision on their qualifications—education, experience, and their ability to address local issues. I want a leader who is knowledgeable and capable of handling the complexities of governance, especially when it comes to community development and economic progress.”

“I focus on tangible actions rather than promises. I look at their past performance, whether they’ve shown effective leadership, and whether their initiatives have positively impacted the community. A candidate’s ability to manage resources wisely is also influences me.”

While participants prioritize experience in public service, others are open to new leaders with strong advocacies and leadership potential. First-time candidates can still earn voters’ trust by demonstrating clear platforms, accountability, and strong leadership traits.

“Even if a candidate has no experience, if they have a good track record in personal life and            advocacy, I might consider them.”

“I believe that a leader should first prove themselves in the community before running for office. If someone has been actively helping people and advocating for important issues even before they became a candidate, that’s a sign they’re genuinely dedicated to public service.”

“There are first-time candidates who have never held office, but their vision and sincerity make them    stand out. If they have concrete plans and a deep understanding of local problems, I am willing to support them over those who have experience.”

Youth voters tend to make pragmatic electoral preferences, balancing rational evaluation with openness to new leadership. Research on political preferences suggests that young voters prioritize competence and real-world effectiveness over strict ideological loyalty, particularly in socio-political contexts where governance challenges persist [23][24]. Emerging political leaders with strong advocacy work can appeal to younger voters, especially in regions where traditional politicians have failed to address key community concerns. This aligns with findings that highlight the role of governance effectiveness and transparency in shaping youth political engagement [25][26].

Subtheme B: Emotional Connection

While rational criteria are important, emotional connections with candidates also play a significant role in youth voters’ decisions. Candidates who can emotionally resonate with voters, demonstrating empathy and a genuine interest in addressing their concerns, are more likely to gain support.

“It’s not just about logic and qualifications; emotional connection plays a role too. I want to support a leader who truly cares about the people. A candidate who takes the time to engage with the community and listen to people’s concerns makes a strong impression on me. It creates a sense of trust and relatability.”

“I’m drawn to candidates who can connect on a human level. When a candidate shows genuine concern for the community’s well-being, it fosters a feeling of solidarity, which in turn makes me more likely to vote for them. Their ability to engage personally with people during rallies or town hall meetings plays a big part in my decision.”

According to [28], emotional appeals in politics can significantly influence voter preferences. His research suggests that emotional connections to candidates can enhance voter loyalty and support, particularly when voters perceive candidates as genuinely caring about their community’s needs. Similarly, [29] argue that emotions such as enthusiasm and anxiety play a crucial role in shaping voter engagement and electoral decisions.

Theme 3: Community Concerns that Influence Youth Voters’ Preferences

This theme delves into the specific community concerns that have the greatest influence on youth voters’ decisions, emphasizing the socio-political and economic realities of their environments.

Subtheme A: Socioeconomic Concerns

Socioeconomic conditions, particularly poverty, employment, infrastructure problems are among the most significant influences on youth voter preferences. Candidates who present viable solutions for reducing poverty, creating jobs, and improving economic opportunities and infrastructures within the society tend to resonate with youth voters.

“The economic conditions of the community play a huge role in my vote. I want candidates who have a clear understanding of poverty and who are committed to addressing unemployment and low wages. If candidates have practical solutions for improving the local economy, I’m more likely to support them.”

“Poverty alleviation is a major concern. I want leaders who can provide real solutions, like job creation programs, and ensure that education and healthcare are accessible to everyone. A candidate who understands the struggles of the underprivileged and has a plan to help them is who I will vote for.”

“Roads in our community have been neglected for years. We deserve leaders who will prioritize infrastructure projects that actually improve people’s daily lives.”

“It’s not just only about roads. Basic services like water and electricity should also be improved. If a candidate shows a commitment to infrastructure, they have my vote.”

According to [22], youth voters are heavily influenced by economic concerns, particularly employment opportunities and poverty alleviation. [19] also emphasize that economic issues are central to youth voting decisions, particularly in contexts of high unemployment and economic inequality. Infrastructural development is closely tied to governance effectiveness, as inadequate infrastructure, such as poor road conditions, often reflects weak public service delivery, inefficiencies in resource allocation, and governance failures [24][25]. Effective governance plays a critical role in ensuring infrastructure investments translate into improved public services and sustainable economic development [26].

Subtheme B: Educational Accessibility

Education is a critical issue for youth voters, particularly in areas where access to quality education may be limited. Candidates who prioritize education are more likely to win the support of young voters.

“Education is critical to a community’s future. I pay attention to how candidates plan to improve educational opportunities, especially for disadvantaged youth. A candidate who focuses on enhancing education and ensuring that all students have access to quality schooling gets my vote.”

“The future of our community depends on education. I look for candidates who prioritize building better schools, improving teacher training, and making education more affordable and accessible. If a candidate shows a genuine commitment to these goals, they have my support.”

According to [18], education can influence youth in their political decision-making. [19] also highlights those educational policies play a central role in shaping youth voting preferences, especially in contexts where youth face limited educational opportunities.

Subtheme C: Corruption and Governance Transparency

Concerns about corruption and lack of transparency in governance emerged as determinants in youth voters’ decision-making.  Participants indicated that they actively avoid candidates with histories of corruption or political dishonesty.

“We’ve had too many leaders who promised development but only make themselves become more rich. I want a leader who is truly transparent and accountable.”

“For me many candidates if they were already in the position use public funds for their own benefit. If they have past corruption issues, I won’t support them anymore.”

“I want leaders who are accountable for their actions. Many candidates promise transparency, but only few actually keep those promises.”

Participants also linked corruption to misallocation of public funds, particularly in infrastructure projects and social services.

“Budget issues are a huge problem. Money meant for development is not distributed fairly. We need leaders who will ensure that government funds are used properly.”

According to [30], corruption significantly erodes voter trust and reduces civic engagement, particularly in communities with long histories of political mismanagement.

Subtheme D: Concerns on Political Dynasties

Political dynasties are a longstanding concern in the local political landscape. Participants expressed frustration over the lack of alternative candidates and the dominance of established political families in elections.

“One of the biggest problems in Samar is political dynasties. The same families keep running for      office, and it’s difficult for new leaders to emerge.”

“It’s frustrating because we don’t always have a real choice. Even if I want change, the same families dominate the elections, and it feels like we’re stuck in a cycle.”

Others noted that while some political families have provided stability, they also prevent innovation in governance.

“Some dynasties have experience, but we also need new perspectives. We should give opportunities to fresh candidates who can bring real change.”

[31] suggests that political dynasties limit electoral competition, often resulting in governance that prioritizes family interests over public service. [32] also highlight that dynastic rule is associated with higher poverty rates and weaker policy reforms, as entrenched families maintain control over resources and decision-making.

Theme 4: Sources of Information on Local Candidates

This theme focuses on the different sources of information that youth voters rely on when gathering knowledge about candidates, along with the challenges they face in ensuring the accuracy of this information.

Subtheme A: Social Media Influence

Social media plays a central role in shaping youth voters’ perceptions of candidates. Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok provide an accessible way for candidates to communicate directly with voters, especially younger demographics. However, the results also show that youth voters are aware of the risks associated with social media, particularly the spread of misinformation. They acknowledge the power of social media in shaping opinions but emphasize the importance of verifying the information they encounter.

“Social media is a powerful tool, but it comes with risks. It can be full of misinformation, which is why I always verify any information I see online. I look for multiple sources and cross-reference facts to ensure accuracy before making a decision.”

“While social media is great for staying informed, it’s important not to take everything at face value. I follow official accounts, credible news outlets, and fact-checking organizations to ensure the information I receive is accurate and unbiased.”

According to [16], social media plays a significant role in shaping youth political engagement and providing direct communication between candidates and voters. However, [18] stress the need for media literacy to combat misinformation, which is a concern echoed by the participants in this study.

Subtheme B: Community Discussions

In addition to social media, youth voters often rely on face-to-face interactions with family, friends, and community members to gather information about candidates. These conversations provide valuable insights into a candidate’s reputation, their involvement in the community, and their effectiveness as a leader. Youth voters trust these informal sources of information, particularly when they come from individuals with firsthand experience of the candidate’s actions.

“Talking to local people is one of the best ways to get an honest perspective on candidates. I ask neighbors, local business owners, and community leaders about their thoughts on candidates. It gives me a deeper understanding of the candidates’ impact and reputation in the community.”

“Community discussions are a reliable source of information. If many people in the community speak highly of a candidate, I take that into account. It shows me that the candidate is genuinely serving the community and not just campaigning for votes.”

According to [20], youth voters often seek information from trusted community sources, especially when they lack access to traditional media outlets. [23] supports this by emphasizing the importance of interpersonal communication in political decision-making, noting that face-to-face interactions provide more authentic insights into candidates’ behaviors and values.

Subtheme C: Campaign Rallies and Events

Attending campaign rallies and public events is another important source of information for youth voters. These events allow candidates to directly engage with the electorate, showcase their ideas, and answer questions. Youth voters value the opportunity to see candidates in action, as it provides a clearer sense of their authenticity, leadership skills, and ability to connect with the community. Direct engagement through rallies or town halls also helps youth voters assess whether a candidate is genuinely interested in addressing local issues.

“I attend rallies and public events to hear candidates speak firsthand. It’s a chance to see how they connect with the people, answer questions, and present their plans. I feel that attending these events allows me to make a more informed choice based on direct interaction.”

“Campaign rallies are important for gauging a candidate’s charisma, responsiveness, and sincerity. I always try to attend, not just to hear their speech but to observe their behavior and how they handle public scrutiny.”

According to [22] youth voters place significant importance on attending campaign rallies and public events, where they can directly engage with candidates and form their own opinions based on firsthand observations. [19] further emphasize that such events are critical for evaluating candidates’ authenticity and effectiveness as leaders.

Subtheme D: Misinformation and Media Literacy

Misinformation is a significant concern for youth voters, especially with the rise of digital media. While social media can be a powerful tool for spreading information, it also contributes to the spread of fake news and political propaganda. As a result, youth voters emphasize the need for media literacy and critical thinking.

“Misinformation is a major challenge, especially during elections. I make sure to verify every piece of information I receive, particularly on social media. It’s essential to be media literate and question what we read and hear, especially when it comes from unverified sources.”

“Fact-checking is a must in today’s digital age. There’s so much misinformation out there, and it’s easy to be swayed by it. I make a point to verify every claim before I make any judgment. Media literacy is crucial for making informed electoral decisions.”

According to [18], misinformation is a critical issue in the digital age, particularly for young voters who are exposed to a wide range of unverified sources online. The participants in this study demonstrate a high level of media literacy and skepticism, actively seeking accurate information to make informed decisions.

DISCUSSION

The findings of this study provide a comprehensive understanding of the determinants influencing youth electoral preferences in Samar. The study highlights the evolving nature of political socialization, emphasizing the interplay between familial influence, peer networks, community concerns, and media consumption in shaping voter preferences.

A key insight is the significant yet shifting role of family in shaping political beliefs. While early political socialization is heavily influenced by familial preferences, youth voters gradually develop independent perspectives through interactions with peers, social media engagement, and exposure to local governance issues. This transformation aligns with [21] concept of political will, where young individuals transition from passive followers of familial traditions to active, critical participants in democratic processes.

Additionally, peer networks and social media serve as major sources of political information and discourse. While they offer platforms for engagement, they also expose youth voters to misinformation and political bias. The findings indicate that while social media has expanded access to political content, it has also amplified challenges related to fake news and propaganda. Participants demonstrated a strong awareness of the need for fact-checking and critical thinking, reinforcing [16] assertion that digital media enhances political engagement but necessitates improved media literacy to prevent misinformation.

Socioeconomic concerns emerged as paramount considerations in youth electoral preferences. Issues such as poverty, unemployment, infrastructure, and education significantly influence voter preferences, suggesting a pragmatic approach to voting. Rather than strict party loyalty, youth voters assess candidates based on their perceived ability to implement tangible, community-driven policies. These findings align with research by [22] and [19], which argue that young voters prioritize governance effectiveness over political ideology, especially in economically challenged regions.

Moreover, governance issues, including corruption, transparency, and political dynasties, significantly impact voter preferences. Participants expressed frustration with entrenched political families, reinforcing [31] findings that dynastic rule limits electoral competition and innovation. There is a growing demand among young voters for political reforms, ethical leadership, and greater inclusivity in governance, signaling a shift towards accountability-driven voting preferences.

While social media is a dominant platform for political information, participants also emphasized the importance of face-to-face discussions, campaign rallies, and direct candidate engagement. This underscores the continued relevance of traditional political interaction in shaping voter perceptions, aligning with [20] observations on the role of interpersonal communication in political preferences.

Limitations

This study offers valuable insights into the electoral preferences of youth voters in Samar but has several limitations. First, as a qualitative study with a small purposive sample, the findings cannot be generalized to all youth voters in Samar or the Philippines. Recruitment through barangay officials, youth groups, and online forums may have introduced selection bias, as more politically engaged youth were more likely to participate. Second, researcher positionality may have influenced data collection and interpretation. While peer debriefing and intercoder agreement that strengthened rigor, subjective judgment in coding and analysis remains inherent in qualitative research. Third, the findings are context-specific to Samar, where entrenched political dynasties, economic dependencies, and community mobilization shape voter behavior. Transferability to other regions should therefore be approached with caution, as the results are not intended to represent the national electorate.

Finally, data relied largely on self-reported perceptions, which are susceptible to recall bias and social desirability. Although triangulated with observations and document reviews, these risks cannot be eliminated. Moreover, because electoral attitudes are time-sensitive, findings reflect the context during the 2023–2024 pre- and post-election period and may shift in future political cycles. Despite these limitations, the study provides a critical localized understanding of how Samar’s youth navigate electoral decision-making and highlights the need for further research using larger, more diverse samples and mixed-methods approaches to broaden scope and validity

CONCLUSION

This study provides a deep exploration of the complex and multifaceted factors that shape youth electoral preferences in Samar. Family remains a fundamental influence, but as youth voters engage with community concerns and digital media, they develop more independent and critical perspectives. This shift from inherited political beliefs to informed decision-making underscores the increasing role of peer discussions, social media interactions, and localized governance issues in shaping electoral preferences.

Youth voters in Samar prioritize candidates who demonstrate integrity, transparency, and a strong commitment to addressing socio-economic concerns. Their voting preferences reflects a pragmatic, issue-based approach rather than ideological loyalty. However, misinformation remains a critical challenge, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced media literacy initiatives.

Furthermore, the study reveals a growing demand for political reforms and greater inclusivity in leadership, as young voters’ express frustration with governance inefficiencies, corruption, and political dynasties. While digital platforms influence political perceptions, in-person engagement with candidates remains a crucial factor in shaping voter preferences.

These findings contribute to the broader discourse on youth political participation in the Samar, providing valuable insights into the electoral preferences of young voters in local political contexts. By addressing the key issues identified in this study, stakeholders can implement effective policies and initiatives to strengthen democratic participation among youth voters in Samar and beyond.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Given the widespread exposure to misinformation, media literacy should be integrated into voter education programs. Schools, universities, and civic organizations should offer specialized training on identifying credible sources, verifying political claims, and critically analyzing digital content to promote informed electoral decisions. Local governments, educational institutions, and community organizations should create inclusive spaces for political discussions. Organizing town halls, youth forums, and candidate dialogues can facilitate direct interactions between voters and political leaders, fostering transparency and accountability in governance.

Political candidates should be encouraged to engage in issue-based campaigns rather than personality-driven politics. Independent watchdog organizations and fact-checking institutions should provide accessible and comprehensive reports on candidate backgrounds, policy stances, and governance records to empower voters with reliable information. Policymakers and political leaders must prioritize policies that address key community concerns, including employment, poverty alleviation, education, and infrastructure. Sustainable programs aimed at youth empowerment and economic development can enhance voter confidence in governance and encourage higher electoral participation.

To break the cycle of political dynasties, reforms should be introduced to promote greater inclusivity in leadership. Strengthening anti-dynasty laws, supporting emerging political leaders, and providing training programs for first-time candidates can help diversify the political landscape and encourage fresh perspectives in governance. Future studies should explore the long-term impact of digital media on voter engagement, the effectiveness of civic education initiatives, and the role of community-based political interventions. A deeper understanding of these factors can guide the development of evidence-based policies aimed at improving youth political participation. By implementing these recommendations, policymakers, educators, and civil society organizations can cultivate a politically engaged and well-informed youth electorate, ultimately contributing to a more transparent, accountable, and participatory democratic process in the Philippines.

Declarations

Author Contributions (CRediT Taxonomy)

Cabaguing, A. and Alegro, J.D.: Conceptualization, Data Curation, Investigation, Formal Analysis

Carcellar, M.N.: Methodology, Writing – Review & Editing

Nablo, H.R.: Visualization, Validation

Quina, C.R.: Project Administration, Supervision

Funding

This research did not receive any specific grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.

Ethical Approval

Approved by the Samar State University Ethics Review Committee (SSU-ERC), Protocol Code: SSU2025-042, Approval Date: May 10, 2025. Informed Consent was obtained from all subjects involved in the study.

Competing Interest

The authors declare no competing interests.

Data Availability Statement

Data will be made available by the corresponding author upon request.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

We express our sincere gratitude to the youth participants in Samar for their invaluable insights. Our appreciation also goes to our research adviser and evaluators for methodological guidance. Special thanks to our families and peers for their continuous support.

Declaration of generative AI and AI-assisted technologies in the writing process

During the preparation of this work, the authors used ChatGPT in order to improve clarity and readability. After using this tool, the authors reviewed and edited the content as needed and take full responsibility for the content of the published article.

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