The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has lauded efforts of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) in the registration of voters – those 18 years and older.
It said that despite the restrictions imposed due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, the Comelec has managed to register 59 million voters for the 2022 local and national elections.
"Comelec efforts to reach out to unregistered voters are commendable and worthy of praise," CHR Spokesperson Jacqueline Ann de Guia said in a statement.
"In the past, Comelec has extended registration hours to accommodate voters and has successfully held a plebiscite in Palawan last year that yielded a 60 percent voter turnout," she said.
The success of the 2020 Palawan Plebiscite, said de Guia, “is a good example of how elections can be held despite challenging circumstances.”
And since the COMELEC recently rolled out the new mobile registration form app, the CHR has no doubt that it will reach its goal of registering 60 million voters for the 2022 polls, De Guia noted.
She said the CHR had also supported the continued use of isolated polling places (IPPs) for individuals with high body temperatures so as to make sure that more Filipinos get to register while making sure that the spread of COVID-19 is contained.
The IPP is a Comelec requirement for registrants with temperatures that are 37.5 degrees Celsius or higher, or those who have exhibited COVID-19 symptoms.
"The success of isolated polling places in the plebiscite last year contributed greatly in ensuring that no voter was left behind, and it is truly an inclusive system in ensuring that the right to vote of eligible persons are respected and fulfilled," she stressed.