#ASKGOYO
Atty. Gregorio Larrazabal
Comelec recently issued Resolution No. 10674, which ordered the resumption of the acceptance and processing of voter registration applications nationwide starting September 1, 2020, except in areas under Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) and/or Modified Enhanced Community Quarantine (MECQ). In areas under ECQ or MECQ, processing of voter registration applications automatically resumes when the quarantine level is lowered to either General Community Quarantine (GCQ) or Modified General Community Quarantine (MGCQ).
There are some changes though as regards the days and times of processing of the applications for voter registration. Under the new guidelines, applications will be processed Tuesday to Saturday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
I suggest that you download the voter registration forms BEFORE going to the local Comelec office, so you can fill up the form at home and minimize the time you spend in the Comelec office. You can download the forms by clicking the links below:
Voter Registration Form:
https://www.comelec.gov.ph/php-tpls-attachments/VoterRegistration/ApplicationsForms/CEF1_Revised.pdf
Supplementary Data Form:
https://www.comelec.gov.ph/php-tpls-attachments/VoterRegistration/ApplicationsForms/Annex_B_SupplementaryData.pdf
Please remember the very important points in filling up the forms:
- Print three copies of the forms and fill it up before going to the COMELEC office.
- Use legal size paper (8.5” x 13”) when printing out the application forms.
- You can fill up the form at home, but must affix your signature on the form ONLY IN FRONT OF THE COMELEC OFFICIAL.
- You must roll your fingerprint and affix your specimen signature WHEN YOU ARE AT THE COMELEC OFFICE, IN THE PRESENCE OF THE COMELEC OFFICIAL.
Don’t forget that you register in the local Comelec office in the city or municipality you reside in. Meaning, if you reside in Ormoc City, you register in the Comelec office in that city, and not in any other Comelec office.
As a reminder, the following may register as a voter for the May 9, 2022, national and Local elections:
- A person who is at least 18 years of age on or before May 9, 2022, presidential elections.
- A resident of the Philippines for at least one year and in the city/municipality where he/she proposes to vote, and at least six months immediately preceding the May 9, 2022, national and local elections;
- Not otherwise disqualified by law.
What is covered in the period for application for registration?
- First time registration as a voter.
- Transfer of residence of a voter.
- Change or correction of entries of the voter, including change of marital status.
- Reactivation of voter registration.
- Inclusion of registration record.
- Reinstatement of the name of the voter in the voters list.
When you register as a voter:
- ALL applicants MUST wear a mask and face shield. You will be denied entry to the COMELEC office if you do not comply with this health protocol.
- Please bring your own ballpen when you go to register as a voter.
- Before entering the Comelec office, make sure you step on the DISINFECTION MAT which is located in front of the office.
- There is an alcohol and/or sanitizer dispenser in the Comelec office. Make sure you apply on your hands when you enter the office.
- Make sure you practice physical distancing when in the Comelec office.
- When you finish and leave the COMELEC office, make sure you apply alcohol and/or alcogel on your hands.
Each and every qualified Filipino above the age of 18 on or before May 9, 2022, has a right to register and vote. Voting is your voice in this democracy. Registering and voting is your way of telling everyone that you’re helping chart the destiny of our country.
Stay Safe. Stay healthy. Wear a mask properly. Make your voice count.