Manila: Malaca±ang has called on overseas Filipinos to exercise integrity in voting and select leaders who prioritize the nation's welfare as overseas voting for the 2025 midterm elections commenced.
According to Philippines News Agency, during a press briefing, Presidential Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro emphasized that voting should be seen as a patriotic duty rather than a transactional act. Castro appealed to overseas voters to vote for candidates deserving of their trust, encouraging them to cast their ballots from the heart.
She cautioned voters against succumbing to monetary influence or persuasion, urging them to reject candidates who prioritize personal gain over national interests. Castro stressed the importance of electing reliable leaders who would uphold the country's integrity and exhibit patriotism.
The Palace expressed confidence in the Commission on Elections' management of the month-long online voting period, which began on Sunday and will conclude at 7 p.m. on May 12, coinciding with election day in the Philippines. Castro highlighted hopes for a smooth voting process, facilitating easier participation for Filipinos abroad.
Over 1.8 million overseas Filipinos are eligible to vote for 12 senators and a party-list. The 2022 elections saw a 40.59 percent participation rate among registered overseas voters, the highest recorded turnout to date.
