CHIZ TO CAUSE-ORIENTED, CITIZENS GROUPS : EDUCATE
YOUNG VOTERS ON 2010

Opposition Sen. Chiz Escudero on Friday called on cause-oriented and citizens groups to launch a campaign to educate the youth on the importance of the electoral process in light of the fact that a majority of registered voters in the country are those within the age range of from 18 to 40 years of age.

"The election next year is especially significant to the youth as they comprise a majority of registered voters. Clearly they have the power to change the course of Philippine history by availing of their privilege to choose those who will lead this country in the following years," Escudero said in a statement.

"Never before have we seen the youth so empowered than they are at present. I believe the youth vote will dictate the results of next year's polls."

Escudero cited as an example of efforts to empower the youth voters through education are the projects of a Cebu-based citizens group.

The Cebu - Citizens' Involvement and Maturation in People's Empowerment and Liberation (C-Cimpel) has been making the rounds in different universities and colleges in Cebu conducting orientations and seminars on the elections next year.

C-Cimpel, in partnership with University of San Carlos president Fr. Dionisio Miranda, is also working for the establishment of a youth arm for the citizens group.

"I laud C-Cimpel for doing a great service to the youth of Cebu. The group has recognized the importance of empowering young voters with education and information on the significance of the electoral process," the 40-year old senator said.

"We cannot understate the advantages of an informed electorate. Information is empowerment," Escudero said.