Advocacy concert set on Friday

CEBU, Philippines – Around 12,000 Cebuano youth are expected to gather this Friday for an advocacy concert, to be led by popular Manila-based bands, urging the sector to register and vote.

Gabriel Cruz, one of the organizers of “Rock the Vote” said that the purpose of the advocacy concert is to let the youth “feel their strength by practicing the right to vote” in next year’s polls.

Cruz said that there are still a lot of these 12 million young men and women who until this time have not yet registered.

He clarified that the organization is multisectoral and multiparty and they are not endorsing specific candidates.

Among the politicians expected are Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, Akbayan Rep. Ana Theresia “Risa” Hontiveros-Baraquel, former Bukidnon Rep. JR Nereus “Neric” Acosta, Naga City (Camarines Sur) Mayor Jessie Robredo, and many others.

The office of Councilor Gerardo Carillo will coordinate with the Commission on Election for offsite registration and provide buses for constituents who would want to register.

Cruz said that the RV Bus will be in Cebu on Thursday, July 16, and will proceed to other parts of the country to spread the advocacy. — Ferliza C. Contratista/MEEV (THE FREEMAN)