Millions of Filipinos voted in the country's presidential elections on Monday.

Sen. Benigno Aquino III, the son of late President Corazon Aquino, commanded a large lead in pre-election polls.

His two main rivals are real estate tycoon Sen. Manny Villar and a former president Joseph Estrada, both of who have been accused of cronyism and corruption. Many Filipinos are hopeful the elections will mark a clean start after decades of corruption.

"The Philippines need good leaders," said Maria Ananciata. "The Philippines need direction. "I hope the leaders that will be elected this time will be selfless enough to lead the country somewhere."

Police said at least seven people were killed and eight wounded on Monday. This brings the total to almost 30 people who have been killed in the last three months in violence connected to the election.

"A Filipino Marine and a civilian acting as a congressional candidate's bodyguards were killed in a clash outside a police station in Bacoor township in Cavite province, south of Manila," an Associated Press photographer reported.