President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. called on newly elected officials to set aside political divisions and work with the government, following the conclusion of the 2025 midterm elections.

“Governance is a shared responsibility, a mission that requires unity and burden sharing for the common good. To the newly elected, regardless of party or coalition, I extend my hand. Let us move forward together — with open minds and a common purpose,” Marcos said in a statement Tuesday

The President’s appeal came a day after millions of Filipinos voted for nearly 18,000 national and local posts under intense heat.

He thanked the Filipino electorate for taking part in the democratic process and in ensuring a peaceful and honest election.

“Maraming salamat sa bawat Pilipinong bumoto (Thank you to every Filipino who voted). Once again, our democracy has renewed itself — peacefully, orderly and with dignity,” he said.

He noted the challenges ahead, including inflation, unemployment, and corruption, and said elected officials must act on the issues “head-on.”

As of the latest count, six of the 12 leading senatorial candidates are from the administration-backed Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas.

“We may not have won every seat, but our work and mission continue,” Marcos said, also offering words of respect for losing candidates.

“To those who did not make it, your courage to stand for public service is deeply respected. Public service goes beyond elections. The work of nation-building needs all who are ready to serve,” he said.

Marcos also issued a call for national unity, quoting his late father: “If we are to prevail, we must prevail as Filipinos — for it is the only way to endure… And we must do this as one family, a nation united.” (PNA)