The 2025 Philippine Midterm Elections: What’s at Stake — and Why the World Is Watching

When is the midterm election in the Philippines?

The 2025 Philippine midterm elections will take place on Monday, 13 May 2025.
Every three years, Filipinos head to the polls for national and local elections — and midterms are a key moment in the country’s democratic cycle. In 2025, voters will elect over 18,000 officials, including 12 Senators, the entire House of Representatives, and thousands of local government leaders.

These elections will shape not just the direction of domestic policy, but also the Philippines’ role on the world stage — especially at a time of shifting alliances, regional tensions, and economic pressure.

Here’s what you need to know.

What are the Philippine midterms?

Midterm elections are held halfway through a president’s six-year term and often act as a public verdict on their leadership so far. They’re also a sign of how the political landscape might shape up heading into the next presidential race — in this case, the 2028 elections.
In 2025, voters will decide on:

• 12 new Senators (half of the 24-seat Senate)
• All 317 members of the House of Representatives
• Thousands of local government roles — from governors to city councillors

A divided political stage: Marcos vs. Duterte

This year’s elections are taking place against a dramatic political backdrop. President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte, once close allies, are now political rivals.

Duterte faces an impeachment trial, while her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, is running for mayor of Davao City — despite being detained by the International Criminal Court. The outcome of the Senate race may determine whether the impeachment progresses or fails.

Why does it matter globally?

The Philippines may be an island nation, but its political decisions have regional and global consequences:

1. Foreign policy

President Marcos has strengthened ties with the United States, a shift away from the previous administration’s pro-China stance. The midterms may determine whether this realignment holds.

2. South China Sea tensions

How the Philippines handles territorial disputes with China will depend on the balance of power in government — something directly impacted by these elections.

3. Economic stability

Investor confidence, currency stability, and international remittance flows (a vital part of the economy) can all be affected by political outcomes.

Why overseas Filipinos are watching

For the millions of Filipinos living abroad, elections at home remain deeply personal. They can shape everything from family futures to public services in their hometowns.

And during this period, many overseas Filipinos look for ways to support family — including financially. Whether it’s helping with school fees, emergencies, or just staying connected, services like Paysend make it easier than ever to send money to a debit card instantly in the Philippines.

With instant card-to-card transfers, you can support loved ones securely and directly — with no hidden costs and full visibility.

How to sign up to Paysend

Getting started is simple:

1. Sign-up via the Paysend app or on the official Paysend website.
2. Enter your mobile number (with country code)
3. Verify your phone or create a four-digit passcode
4. Add your name, date of birth, and email
5. Enter your residential address
    

Done — you’re ready to transfer.

The road ahead

With the midterm election date set for 13 May 2025, the Philippines stands at a political crossroads. The results will influence not only national policy but also global diplomacy, trade, and regional stability.

Whether you’re voting, watching from abroad, or supporting loved ones from afar, this is a moment of significance — for the Philippines and beyond.
 

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