Filipinos, be advised of the internet voting procedure as encouraged by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC). This upcoming election season, if you are a registered Pinoy voter abroad, you can now enroll in the Overseas Voting and Counting System (OVCS).
Unlike previous events, this internet voting allows you to cast your vote without the need to visit the Philippine embassy/consulate. But you still need to register. The enrollment period will run from March 10, 2025 (Monday) to May 7, 2025 (Wednesday). While the actual voting period starts from April 13, 2025 (Monday) until May 12, 2025 (Wednesday).
COMELEC has officially opened the pre-voting enrollment for internet voting, giving Overseas Filipino voters the opportunity to participate in the upcoming 2025 National and Local Elections through an innovative and convenient online system.
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Pre-Voting Enrollment Period and Guidelines
The pre-voting enrollment period for Overseas Filipino voters will take place from March 10, 2025 (Monday) to May 7, 2025 (Wednesday). During this time, registered voters residing abroad can enroll in the Overseas Voting and Counting System (OVCS), which will enable them to cast their votes online during the official overseas voting period.
Overseas Filipino voters under Posts that have adopted internet voting are encouraged to take advantage of this process to ensure their participation in the democratic process. The Overseas Voting Period for the 2025 elections runs from April 13, 2025 (Sunday) until May 12, 2025 (Monday), 7pm Philippine Standard Time,
- Pre-Voting Enrollment Period: March 10, 2025 (Monday) – May 7, 2025 (Wednesday)
- Overseas Voting Period: April 13, 2025 (Sunday) – May 12, 2025 (Monday), 7:00 PM Philippine Standard Time
How to Enroll for Internet Voting
COMELEC has outlined three ways for Overseas Filipino voters to complete their pre-voting enrollment:
1. Self-Enroll Using Internet-Capable Devices
Voters can independently sign up for pre-enrollment using their personal devices during the enrollment period. This method provides flexibility and the ability to complete registration remotely.
2. Philippine Post Voting Kiosks
During the overseas voting period, interested voters may visit designated Philippine Posts to access on-site voting kiosks for pre-enrollment.
3. Field or Mobile Enrollment Initiatives
Scheduled mobile pre-voting enrollment drives organized by Philippine Posts will also be held to cater to those unable to access internet devices or a nearby Philippine Post.
No matter the chosen method, voters must follow these uniform steps for successful enrollment:
- Step 1: Access the official link for internet voting enrollment provided by COMELEC.
- Step 2: Carefully follow the instructions stated in the enrollment portal.
- Step 3: Upon successful pre-enrollment, voters will be eligible to cast their votes online during the designated 30-day voting period.
Benefits of Internet Voting for Overseas Filipinos
Internet voting is a landmark initiative undertaken by COMELEC to include Overseas Filipino voters in the democratic process with greater convenience and efficiency. With over 12 million Filipinos residing abroad, many face limitations in accessing traditional voting avenues due to geographic, work-related, or logistical concerns. The introduction of an internet-based voting system offers a practical solution to these challenges.
Some of the key benefits of this system include:
- Ease of Access: Voters can participate from anywhere globally via their devices, eliminating the need for physical presence at voting centers.
- Efficiency: Internet voting reduces administrative bottlenecks and streamlines processes for overseas participation.
- Cost-Effectiveness: By minimizing the use of physical ballots and associated logistics, the online system offers long-term savings for electoral administration.
Important Reminders for Voters
COMELEC emphasizes the importance of completing the pre-enrollment process within the designated timeline to ensure smooth participation. Failure to register during the pre-enrollment period will disqualify voters from participating in internet voting for the May 2025 elections.
COMELEC also encourages voters to be vigilant against misinformation regarding the pre-voting process. Only use official websites and links provided by COMELEC or endorsed by the Philippines’ Office for Overseas Voting to avoid fraudulent sites.
Overseas Filipinos can visit the official COMELEC website or follow COMELEC’s official Facebook page for accurate updates and further instructions. Additionally, the Office for Overseas Voting has a dedicated Overseas Voting PH Facebook page for more information.
The introduction of internet voting is part of COMELEC’s broader mission to modernize Philippine elections while ensuring transparency, inclusivity, and accessibility for all citizens. By utilizing technology, the government is taking significant steps to reach and engage Filipino voters around the world. This effort also reflects the nation’s commitment to protect every Filipino’s right to suffrage, regardless of their location.