VOTE. Rep. Jude Acidre of Tingog party-list group cast his vote in his native town of Barugo on Monday, May 12. (PHOTO COURTESY)

TACLOBAN CITY — Tingog Party-list Representative Jude Acidre cast his vote early Monday morning at Barugo II Central School in his hometown of Barugo, Leyte, joining millions of Filipinos participating in the 2025 midterm elections.

Acidre underscored the importance of civic engagement and called on voters nationwide to exercise their right to vote.

“Every vote is a choice for the kind of future we want to build,” he said. “Today, we are not just electing leaders—we are shaping the direction of our communities and our nation.”

The lawmaker, who is seeking re-election under the Tingog party-list, has been actively campaigning across the country. He highlighted Tingog’s commitment to expanding grassroots services through its network of Tingog Centers and continued delivery of medical, livelihood, and social assistance programs.

As the elections progressed, Acidre expressed hope for a peaceful and orderly process. He also extended his gratitude to poll workers, volunteers, and local communities for their vital role in safeguarding the integrity of the electoral exercise.

“Our democracy depends not only on the leaders we elect, but also on the people who ensure the fairness and transparency of the process,” he added.

Tingog party-list is seeking another term in the House of Representatives, vowing to sustain its service-driven platform and push for inclusive development, particularly in marginalized and underserved areas.

(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)