MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Elections (Comelec) announced an expansion of its satellite registration efforts to ensure broader voter participation in the 2025 midterm elections. This initiative aims to reach potential voters in remote and underrepresented areas across the country.
According to Philippines News Agency, the decision to enhance satellite registration services reflects the Commission's commitment to inclusivity. Speaking to members of the Tigwahanon tribe in Sitio Kalinawan, Kibongcog, Garcia emphasized that every voter's access, regardless of location or background, is crucial. The Commission's efforts to decentralize the registration process have made it more accessible, even in the urban centers of Metro Manila.
Garcia highlighted the importance of bringing registration services to the Philippines' most remote areas, allowing indigenous and rural populations to register without the need to travel to urban centers. He also mentioned the possibility of deploying battery-operated automated counting machines in the upcoming elections, contingent on the number of registered voters in these areas.
During the satellite registration event, 71 indigenous peoples, including first-time voters Mary Grace Ibalao, 19, and 74-year-old Datu Deimas Sumu-nao, were able to submit their applications for new voter registration or for transfer. Ibalao expressed her excitement about participating in the upcoming elections, while Sumu-nao emphasized the importance of supporting candidates who understand the unique needs of indigenous communities.
The nationwide voter registration campaign is scheduled to run until September 30, providing ample opportunity for new voters to register and for existing voters to update their records in preparation for the 2025 polls.