Manila: Some first-time young Filipino voters are grappling with a mix of nervousness, cautious optimism, and a strong sense of civic duty as they prepare to cast their ballots in the 2025 elections.

According to Philippines News Agency, in an exclusive interview, three university students who will be voting for the first time spoke candidly about their expectations, anxieties, and hopes for the coming polls.

Venice Claire Aquino, a college student from a university in the capital, has spent recent weeks reading about candidates - scanning their promises and controversies - trying to piece together what kind of leaders they might become. "Honestly, I'm nervous," she said. "I have no idea how it will go on the day itself whether things will run smoothly or if something might go wrong."

What troubles her most isn't just the logistics of voting, but the fear that her trust might be misplaced. "There's always this nagging thought," she admitted. "What if the people I vote for are only pretending to be good? What if, once they're in power, they will change?" Aquino has done her homework, researching each candidate on her list. She said it gives her some peace of mind. Still, a deep sense of uncertainty lingers. "This isn't just theory anymore," she said. "I won't be watching from my TV this time - I'll be there, part of it."

Lennard Reiner Pascual, another student from the same university, described feeling the weight of responsibility settle on his shoulders as election day draws near. "There's pressure - real pressure," he said. "Because now I have a voice. And with that comes the responsibility of choosing people who'll shape our community not just in politics, but in how they lead by example." Pascual's expectations for the national races are tempered. He doesn't expect sweeping change from the Senate. But his hopes run deeper for local government officials, whose work he has seen up close through a youth sub-organization. "I've witnessed how local governance can work when people take it seriously," he said. "So, I expect more - not just promises, but real service, grounded and honest."

Then there is Mikyla Rodolfo, also a first-time voter, who shared similar emotions - nervousness mixed with excitement. "I'm nervous, but excited," she said. "It feels good to finally be part of something that matters." Rodolfo believes that every vote carries weight - a belief shaped by watching her country sway under the burden of corruption and unkept promises. "I just really hope people choose leaders who deserve it - those who aren't just saying the right things but are truly honest," she said. "I want to believe change is still possible."

The voices of these young voters reflect the stakes of a democratic process and a generation eager to be heard. Millennials and Gen Z, ages 18 to 44, make up most voters in the 2025 elections. Their large numbers could strongly influence the outcome.