Manila: The European Union (EU) has deployed a 72-member mission to observe the conduct of the upcoming midterm elections in the Philippines, following an official invitation from the Philippine government.
According to Philippines News Agency, the mission comprises experts from all 27 EU member states, who will observe the elections in pairs across all regions of the country, including the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
Deputy Chief Observer Manuel S¡nchez de Nogu©s emphasized that this mission is a first for the EU in the Philippines and one of the largest deployments by the bloc. In a statement made in Makati City, he noted the EU's view of this invitation as a sign of the Philippine government's openness to cooperation.
S¡nchez de Nogu©s explained that the EU's approach is independent, based on the laws of the host country and international principles for democratic elections. The mission will observe all aspects of the electoral process, engaging with stakeholders such as government officials, political parties, candidates, civil society groups, and voters.
The comprehensive report generated by the mission will assess the election's compliance with domestic laws and international commitments. S¡nchez de Nogu©s clarified that the EU would not interfere in the electoral process and would release their assessment two days post-election. The final report, with recommendations, is expected two months after the elections.
To enhance the mission, an additional 104 short-term observers will be deployed during the vote tallying period. Lithuanian observer Ricardas Ramoska highlighted the importance of having a diverse group of observers to provide a comprehensive view of the election, which could benefit future polls in the Philippines.
The EU Delegation in Manila assured that the mission would uphold strict neutrality and impartiality, refraining from offering advice or assistance during their observation. Chief Observer Marta Temido, an EU Parliament member from Portugal, is scheduled to arrive in Manila for high-level discussions with various stakeholders.
Beyond observing campaign activities, the mission will evaluate the performance of the Commission on Elections, the participation of marginalized groups, respect for civil and political rights, media operations, and the automated election system's accuracy. On election day, the mission plans to visit numerous polling stations across urban and rural areas to observe the entire voting process.
The mission will be joined by diplomats from EU member states, Canada, Norway, and Switzerland, along with a delegation from the European Parliament, to observe the elections on May 12.
