Commission on Elections Expects 80% Voter Turnout for Barangay and Sangguniang Elections

In Manila, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) anticipates an 80 percent voter turnout in the ongoing Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE).

According to Philippines News Agency, this projection is based on initial reports indicating a high number of voters at polling centers. “The record from 2018 and prior to the 2013 polls is 70 percent. We hope it will reach 80 percent this year,” Laudiangco said during a press briefing.

Laudiangco also noted the significance of barangay officials, especially during the pandemic, highlighting their involvement in various aspects of people’s lives. On the topic of early voting, he reported a high participation rate among members of the vulnerable sector. Comelec has pilot-tested early voting in Muntinlupa City and Naga City and plans to continue implementing it in future elections, even without a specific law mandating the practice.

Regarding the pilot testing of automated vote-counting machines in three areas—Barangay Poblacion Zone 2 and Paliparan 3 in Dasmariñas City, Cavite, and Barangay Pasong Tamo in Quezon City—Laudiangco said they have not yet received any reports of malfunctioning machines. He assured that standby machines are available for immediate replacement if needed.

Additionally, Laudiangco reported successful mall voting initiatives in several areas in Metro Manila, Cebu, and Bicol. The voting process for the BSKE is expected to conclude at 3 p.m., with winners likely to be proclaimed by Monday evening, according to Comelec.