Manila:Nearly 80,000 applications were submitted during the first three days of the resumption of nationwide voter registration, more than doubling the nearly 37,000 recorded on the opening day, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) reported on Thursday.
According to Philippines News Agency, Comelec Chairperson George Garcia described the turnout as a "blockbuster," emphasizing the consistently high number of applicants on the second day. "On the first day, there were nearly 37,000 registrants nationwide. Let's double that - we're already approaching 80,000 across the entire Philippines. It's truly a blockbuster turnout. The number of people registering remained just as high on the second day," Garcia stated during his visit to the special Register Anywhere Program (RAP) site at Luneta in Manila.
Garcia expressed his hope for the continuation and expansion of the RAP under future Comelec leadership. He stated that the initiative, currently operating in highly urbanized cities and provincial capitals, should eventually be available in ordinary municipalities as well.
He also clarified that receiving a registration application receipt does not equate to being registered. All applications must be reviewed by the Election Registration Board (ERB) in the applicant's city or municipality. "Their voter registration applications are not automatically approved. They are issued a coupon, which serves as proof that they have applied for registration, but it does not mean they are automatically registered," Garcia explained. The ERB has the authority to approve or deny applications.
Garcia acknowledged the inconvenience of waiting in line at some RAP sites, urging public understanding. Despite the lack of air conditioning at some locations, Garcia noted that the process is fast and eliminates the need for applicants to travel back to their provinces for registration.
The voter registration period will extend until July 30, 2027. The Comelec is also accepting applications for transfer of registration records, reactivation, name changes, corrections of entries, inclusion or reinstatement of registration records, and transfers from foreign service posts to local jurisdictions. Additionally, applications for record updates can be filed by persons with disabilities, senior citizens, Indigenous Peoples, Indigenous Cultural Communities, and other vulnerable sectors at the Office of the Election Officer in their respective cities or municipalities. Applications are accepted from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Tuesdays to Fridays, and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and holidays.
