Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Singapore and other parts of the world are reminded by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) and the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to take part in the pre-voting enrolment period for online voting in the upcoming 2025 National and Local Elections.
To simplify the voting process for Filipinos abroad, a new online voting platform has been introduced. This system enables eligible voters to enroll and cast their votes electronically from anywhere, eliminating the need to visit physical polling stations. This new approach aims to boost participation by making the process seamless, especially for those with limited availability.
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Online Pre-Enrolment
The enrolment window for online voting starts on March 20, 2025 (Thursday) and ends on May 7, 2025 (Wednesday). It is crucial for all interested voters to complete the online pre-enrolment process within this period.
Voting Period Overseas
Online voting will take place during the official Overseas Voting period, running from April 13, 2025 (Sunday) to May 12, 2025 (Monday), closing at 7:00 p.m. Philippine Standard Time.
Eligible Participants
Overseas Filipinos in Singapore who wish to participate must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a Filipino citizen residing in Singapore or a country where internet voting is permitted.
- Registered Overseas Voter: Must be an officially registered overseas voter, with registration completed before the September 2024 deadline.
Enrollment Options
To ensure convenience for OFWs and Filipinos abroad, multiple enrolment methods are available, allowing flexibility in how voters can register:
- Personal Enrollment: Individuals may use their personal internet-connected devices to complete their enrolment online.
- Assistance at Philippine Posts: The Philippine Embassy in Singapore will set up help desks and voting kiosks where voters can register and eventually cast their votes during the election period.
- Mobile Registration Drives: Field enrolment services may be offered in specific areas to reach voters who face difficulty visiting the embassy.
Steps for Successful Online Enrollment
Regardless of the option chosen, the enrolment process follows a standard guide to ensure all voters are accommodated:
- Log on to the Portal: Visit the official election portal provided by COMELEC to initiate the process.
- Fill Out Details: Accurately complete the required forms and submit the necessary information through the portal.
- Receive Confirmation: Once the process is complete, voters will receive confirmation, signifying their eligibility to participate during the designated voting period.
Video Guidance from COMELEC
COMELEC and the DFA have collaborated on an educational campaign to raise awareness about the internet voting system. A video tutorial featuring Filipino comedian and actor, Michael V, is now available to provide a fun and detailed explanation of the enrolment and voting procedures. Singapore-based Filipinos are encouraged to watch this video, accessible on COMELEC’s official Facebook page and YouTube channel.
Stay Updated with Reliable Resources
Filipinos in Singapore are advised to keep up-to-date with the latest election announcements through official channels:
- Follow the COMELEC Official Facebook page for up-to-the-minute guidelines and updates.
- Visit the Official Office for Overseas Voting PH Facebook page for additional information and support.
The introduction of an internet voting system demonstrates the Philippine government’s commitment to increasing voter accessibility, particularly for Filipinos abroad. By reducing physical barriers to participation, COMELEC and DFA hope to empower OFWs like Singapore-based Filipinos to actively engage in shaping the nation’s future through this modernized electoral process.