Overseas voter registration starts September 1 – Comelec

Commission on Elections announced the voter registration and certification for Filipinos who would be overseas from April 9 to May 9, 2022, resumes tomorrow, September 1.

Comelec in an advisory posted on social said Filipinos who are at least 18 years old by May 9, 2022, but will not be in the country to vote for the one month before the 2022 national and local elections are qualified to register.

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Those who would register would be contacted by the OFOV regarding forms to be filled out and when they could go to Intramuros to register.

Applicants would fill out a health declaration form and wear a face mask and face shield when they arrive for their appointment. They must also show their appointment confirmation slip and bring with them their passport or Seaman’s Book, along with other needed supporting documents.

“All types of applications will be accepted, including registration/certification as overseas voter; recapture of biometrics; reinstatement of name; change of name due to marriage or court order; correction of entries; request to withdraw application/certification; reactivation; change or updating of address and other contact information; and updating of photograph and/or signature, until September 30 2021,” the Comelec said.

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However, Comelec said applications for transfer of voters’ registration records from overseas to a Philippine city or municipality would be accepted only until August 31, 2021.

Also read: Comelec imposes ‘no face shield, no registration’

Comelec says no online voter registration amid pandemic

“Ramdam po namin ang panawagan ng publiko na ‘yan. Unfortunately, especially for first time voters, ay kailangan po kasi natin ang biometrics nila,” Comelec Spokesperson James Jimenez said in an interview with CNN Philippines on Wednesday.

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(We feel the sentiments of the public. Unfortunately, especially for first-time voters, we need to gather their biometrics.)

The Comelec would accept first-time voters, transfers, and reactivations, Jimenez said. The Office of the Election Officer will accommodate registrants Tuesday to Saturday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Jimenez added the voter the registration would only run in areas under modified general enhanced community quarantine or general community quarantine. He said strict health protocols should be observed, including the wearing of face masks and face shields.

Voters’ registration will end in September 2021.