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MANILA, Philippines – The Elections Commission (Comelec) is far behind its goal of registering 4 million new voters for the general election on May 9, 2022.
Since voter registration was resumed on September 1, 2020, after the coronavirus shutdown, Comelec had received 1,117,528 voter applications as of January 14.
Calabarzon received the most applications, 167,709, followed by Central Luzon, 125,360 and Metro Manila, 117,011. The Administrative Region of Cordillera had the lowest number of applications, 17,337, followed by Caraga, 34,051, and Visayas del Este, 35,478.
The electoral body only has about eight months left to register new voters before the term ends on September 30.
“We are behind our goal of 4 [million] new registrants, ”Election Commissioner Rowena Guanzón tweeted on Friday. “I will propose overtime for our staff so that we can extend registration hours,” he added.
Comelec offices are open Monday through Thursday, 8 am to 3 pm to accept applications.
Not yet extended
Before the pandemic, Comelec scheduled voter registration for next year’s elections from January 20, 2020 to September 30, 2021. The September 30 deadline has not been extended.
The electoral body suspended registration on March 9, 2020, when the blockade was imposed.
Those visiting election offices should observe Covid-19 health regulations, such as wearing masks and face shields, and observe physical distancing.
To register to vote, you must be at least 18 years old, a resident of the Philippines for at least one year, and a resident for at least six months prior to the election of the city or municipality where you intend to vote.
A voter who wishes to change residence can also request it at the Comelec office in the new place of residence.
Those with a deactivated registration, usually due to not voting in two consecutive elections, can also request re-activation. INQ
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