Beyond the Campus: NDKC Political Science Club Conducts Community Voter Education Seminar
By: Marco B. Tahoy
KIDAPAWAN CITY, PHILIPPINES — Recognizing the importance of informed and responsible participation in democratic processes, the Notre Dame of Kidapawan College (NDKC) Political Science Program, in collaboration with the Community Extension Services (CES), conducted a Voter Awareness and Civic Responsibility Seminar on October 2, 2026, at the OLMAG Parish Cathedral Gym.
With the theme “Power of Change: Voting with Integrity, for the Future of Our Country,” the activity aimed to extend voter education beyond the campus and promote greater awareness of the responsibilities of citizens in a democratic society.
The seminar brought together NDKC students, community members, barangay representatives, and other participants to discuss the importance of informed voting, civic participation, and responsible citizenship.
A Continuing Responsibility to the Nation
Dr. Ivy B. Yecyec, Director of Community Extension Services, emphasized in her opening remarks the continuing importance of voter education, particularly amid ongoing discussions concerning the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections.
She stressed that civic education should not be limited to election periods but should be regarded as a continuing responsibility. She also highlighted the seminar’s inclusive approach, which sought to engage not only community members and local leaders but also NDKC Political Science students who aspire to pursue careers in public service, law, governance, and related fields.
Following an intermission number by Jomarie Bajenting, a third-year Political Science student, representatives from the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Provincial Office served as resource speakers for the seminar.
Empowering the Youth Voice
Atty. Myla A. Luna-Bayao, Provincial Election Supervisor of Cotabato, together with personnel from the COMELEC Provincial Office, discussed the importance of youth participation in elections and civic affairs.
Atty. Luna-Bayao emphasized that young Filipinos have an important role in shaping the country’s future and contributing to decisions that affect their communities and the nation.
Ms. Fatima Dungue of the COMELEC Provincial Office discussed the practical aspects of the Barangay and SK electoral processes. She emphasized the importance of understanding proper voting procedures and carefully evaluating candidates before casting one’s vote.
The discussion encouraged participants to exercise their right to suffrage responsibly by examining candidates’ backgrounds, qualifications, platforms, and track records rather than basing their choices solely on popularity or personal affiliation.
A Meaningful Exchange of Perspectives
The seminar was attended by representatives from various student organizations and community groups, including Dan Jensen Dimaano, President of the Association of Marist Psychology Students; Jayward Enog and Gabriel Riquez, representing the BA in Communication program; Barangay Poblacion purok presidents; a visiting student from the University of Southern Mindanao Main Campus; and members of the NDKC Political Science Club.
The activity continued with an open forum that allowed participants to raise questions and share perspectives on voter registration, election participation, and vote-buying.
Students also engaged the resource speakers in discussions about the ethical implications of vote-buying, including the responsibility of voters to uphold the integrity of the electoral process.
One of the notable discussions centered on how young people can remain committed to the welfare of the Philippines without becoming overly attached to individual political personalities. In response, Atty. Luna-Bayao emphasized the potential of the youth to contribute to meaningful change and encouraged them to remain actively engaged despite challenges within the political and social environment.
Sowing Seeds for Responsible Citizenship
The seminar concluded with the presentation of certificates and tokens of appreciation to the resource speakers and guests. Certificates were likewise presented to the student leaders and Political Science Club officers in recognition of their contributions to the successful implementation of the activity.
In her closing remarks, Political Science Club President Carmela Alexia Pauya shared the organization’s plans and aspirations for future initiatives, particularly those focused on community engagement and development.
Through the voter education seminar, the NDKC Political Science Club and Community Extension Services strengthened their commitment to promoting civic awareness, responsible citizenship, and meaningful community engagement among students and members of the wider community.
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