Marcos considers simultaneous 2025 midterms and charter ratification to save P13B

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is considering conducting the 2025 midterm elections alongside a plebiscite for ratifying proposed amendments to the 1987 Constitution, citing cost savings.

Marcos noted during an interview before leaving for Australia that separate election periods would be costly, with each costing around P13 billion.

Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri echoed Marcos's preference, stating that holding both events simultaneously could save P13 billion and streamline electoral processes.

The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) chairperson George Garcia supports the simultaneous conduct due to potential cost savings, while some analysts worry it may politicize Charter change and divert attention from other national issues.

Analysts suggest that combining the plebiscite with midterm elections could make Charter change a key election issue, potentially overshadowing other important concerns like inflation, livelihood, and national security.