SUFFRAGE

VOX POPULI, VOX DEI

The Electoral System

I. Definition of Election
a device for filling an office through choices made by a designated body of people:
the electorate
Composed of:
Material Elements involved in the organization and use of things
Discursive Elements involve in how he material element fit into the pattern of
meaning, symbols and understanding
ELECTORAL SYSTEM
The procedure and process involved in the selection of executives
II. Functions of Election
a.BOTTOM-UP FUNCTIONS
provide citizenry with a meaningful way of participating in government
I.
II.
III.

Mechanism for leadership selection

An instrument for evaluating and changing governments
A forum for interest articulation and socialization

b. TOP-DOWN FUNCTION
Elections are used by people in the government to legitimize their rule and control
over people
I.
II.
III.

An instrument of rule legitimation

A guide to political strategy
An agent of political socialization and integration

III. Qualification and disqualification for Suffrage

A. Citizenship signifies allegiance and loyalty to the state and a citizen who is a
qualified voter performs the electoral function not only as a right but as for the
good of the country.

B. Age- required that the voter must be of majority age which is the age of
maturity.
C. Residence it is the necessary requirement for the preparation of the
registration.
D. Literacy- it means that the voter must at least know how to express in writing
the choice of candidates or decision on issues w/out necessarily having attained
formal education.

PLEBISCITE
A vote of people expressing their choices for or against a proposed law or
enactment
Referendum
the power of the electorate to approve or reject legislation through an election
A. Referendum on statutes refers to the petition to approve or reject an act or
law, passed by congress
B. .Referendum on local law-petition to approve or reject a law, resolution or
ordinance by regional or local bodies
Initiatives
the power of the people to propose amendment to the constitution through an
election for that matter
TYPES OF INITIAVES:
A. Initiative for the Constitution refers to the petition proposing an amendment to
the constitution.
B. Initiative on Statutes- refers to a petition proposing to enact a national
legislation.
C. Initiative on Local Legislation- refers o petition proposing to enact regional,
provincial, city, municipal or barangay resolutions or ordinance.
RECALL
A process by which a public officer may be removed during or before the term by a
vote of a qualified voters