Negros Oriental, Philippines - Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairperson George Erwin Garcia stated on Wednesday that the poll body is on track to meet its registration target of 3 million voters for the May 2025 midterm elections. Garcia revealed that approximately 2.9 million voters, including those residing abroad, have already registered.
According to Philippines News Agency, the voter registration drive, which began just over two months ago, is expected to achieve its target by the end of the registration period on September 30. He shared these details while speaking to hundreds of students at the Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) during the Comelec's 2024 Voter Education and Registration Fair. During the event, Garcia encouraged students to utilize the Comelec's 'Register Anywhere Program' (RAP), which facilitates voter registration independent of one's current place of residence. The program includes designated RAP areas, like the one set up at the NORSU gymnasium, specifically for those not residing in their home capital cities, while traditional registration desks serve other residents.
Furthermore, Garcia highlighted forthcoming initiatives for the 2025 elections, such as special early voting hours for senior citizens and persons with special needs, and a pilot project for internet voting for overseas voters, aimed at boosting participation and convenience.