The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has announced the revival of voter identification cards (ID) on a digital platform. The Philippine Voter’s ID, also known as the Voter’s Identification Card, was an official government-issued identification card that serves as proof of identity and eligibility to vote in elections.
The voter’s ID is issued by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) to registered voters in the Philippines. It contains basic personal information such as name, address, birthdate, and a unique voter registration number. The card also has security features such as holograms and UV printing to prevent fraud and tampering.
The move to revive the voter’s ID aims to encourage Filipinos abroad to participate in the upcoming 2025 elections through internet voting.
Digital Voter’s ID for Overseas Filipinos
Starting in 2025, Comelec will issue digital voter’s IDs to overseas voters with active registration records.
This move is part of Comelec’s effort to facilitate the first-ever internet voting in the Philippines, allowing Filipinos abroad to cast their votes without the need to mail their ballots or visit Philippine embassies and consulates, as shared in a report by the PNA.
Uses of the Voter’s ID Card
The Voter’s ID card serves multiple important functions, enhancing its value beyond just being a piece of identification. Here are some key uses of the Voter’s ID card:
Proof of Identity and Residency
The Voter’s ID card is a recognized form of identification that proves the holder’s identity and residency.
It is often used in various legal and administrative processes where proof of identity is required.
This includes opening bank accounts, applying for loans, and other financial transactions.
Eligibility Verification for Voting
During elections, the Voter’s ID card is essential for verifying an individual’s eligibility to vote.
It serves as a quick and reliable way for election officers to confirm that the person is registered to vote in their precinct.
This helps streamline the voting process and prevents fraud.
Access to Government Services
Many government services and programs require a valid ID for access.
The Voter’s ID card can be used to avail of these services, ensuring that citizens can benefit from various government projects and assistance programs.
Facilitating Transactions
In daily transactions, such as sending and receiving remittances, purchasing property, or applying for utilities, the Voter’s ID card is commonly accepted as a valid ID.
This makes it easier for individuals to conduct business and personal transactions smoothly.
Travel and Immigration Purposes
While primarily a national ID, the Voter’s ID card can also serve as supplementary identification for domestic travel.
In some cases, it may be used in conjunction with other documents for immigration or travel purposes, particularly within the country.
Enrollment in Digital Voting
With the introduction of digital voter’s IDs, especially for overseas Filipinos, the card will play a crucial role in enabling internet voting.
It serves as an alternative to other forms of identification, making it easier for Filipinos abroad to participate in elections without the need to physically visit embassies or consulates.
Supporting Civic Engagement
Possessing a Voter’s ID card encourages greater civic participation and responsibility.
It reminds citizens of their duty to vote and be active participants in the democratic process.
This sense of civic duty can foster a more engaged and informed electorate.
Pre-Registration for Internet Voting
Eligible overseas voters can pre-register for internet voting from February 12 to May 12, 2025.
To pre-register, applicants will need to use their digital voter’s IDs as an alternative to their Philippine Passports or Seafarer’s Identification Record.
Comelec will provide detailed policy guidelines, including a dedicated email address for handling related requests, to maintain a smooth rollout of the digital voter’s IDs.
Eligibility for Digital Voter’s ID
Only overseas voters who have an active registration record and intend to pre-enroll for the internet voting in the 2025 elections will receive the digital voter’s ID.
This is expected to streamline the voting process for millions of Filipinos living abroad, making it more convenient and accessible.
Background on Voter’s ID Discontinuation
Comelec stopped issuing physical voter’s IDs in 2018 following the implementation of Republic Act 11055, or the Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) Act.
The PhilSys Act aims to create a single national identification system for all citizens and resident aliens in the Philippines.
The digital voter’s ID will now complement the PhilID issued under the PhilSys, providing another means for Filipinos to prove their eligibility to vote.
How to Register for a PhilID
Filipinos can obtain their PhilIDs through the Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) managed by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
The registration process involves two main steps:
- Step 1: Demographic collection, which can be done online through the PhilSys registration website.
- Step 2: Visit a designated registration center with your Appointment Reference Number (ARN) or QR code and supporting documents for biometric collection.
Once these steps are completed, the PhilID and PhilSys number will be delivered to the registrant’s address.
Why the Digital Voter’s ID Matters
The digital voter’s ID is essential for several reasons:
- Convenience: It simplifies the voting process for Filipinos abroad, allowing them to participate in the elections without the hassle of mailing ballots or visiting embassies.
- Security: It provides a secure and verifiable form of identification that can be used in conjunction with the PhilID.
- Inclusivity: It encourages more overseas Filipinos to engage in the electoral process, ascertaining that their voices are heard in the governance of the Philippines.
Steps to Apply for a Digital Voter’s ID
- Verify Eligibility: Make sure you have an active voter registration record and plan to participate in internet voting.
- Pre-Register: During the pre-registration period from February 12 to May 12, 2025, submit your application using your digital voter’s ID.
- Follow Guidelines: Adhere to the policy guidelines provided by Comelec for the digital voter’s ID issuance and internet voting process.
Disclaimer: As of this writing, the COMELEC has yet to release its official IRR regarding the resumption of issuance of Voter’s ID.
For now, the most important things you can do is to verify your eligibility, pre-register, and move forward from there or until there are official guidelines on the application and issuance of the voter’s ID, particularly for overseas Filipinos, starting 2025.
Difference Between a Voter’s ID and a Voter’s Certification
The Voter’s ID and Voter’s Certification serve distinct purposes in the electoral process.
The Voter’s ID is a permanent form of identification issued to verify a person’s identity when voting, containing personal details like name, photograph, and signature.
In contrast, the Voter’s Certification is a temporary document valid for one year, issued upon request to confirm a voter’s registration status.
It includes details such as the voter’s name and residential address, and helps identify the correct precinct and polling location.
While the Voter’s ID makes sure that only eligible voters can cast ballots, the Voter’s Certification assists voters in navigating the electoral process.
Recent Updates
Digital Voter’s ID Guidelines for Overseas Filipinos
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) will soon release guidelines for the issuance of digital voter’s IDs for overseas voters in the 2025 elections, as announced by Chairman George Erwin Garcia.
These digital IDs will serve as alternative valid identification for internet voting pre-enrollment, which runs from February 12 to May 12, 2025.
This follows Comelec’s recent deal with SMS Global Technologies Inc. and Sequent Tech Inc. for the first-ever online voting and counting system for Filipinos abroad. (Inquirer)
Comelec to Launch Voter Education Campaign in BARMM
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) will initiate a comprehensive voter education campaign in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) to prepare residents for the first parliamentary elections in the region.
The campaign will include micro-summits in September and grassroots efforts to educate voters on the new voting system and the composition of the Bangsamoro parliament.
Comelec aims to promote informed participation in this historic electoral exercise, which will fill up to 80 parliamentary seats in the May 12 elections. (Philstar Global)
DILG Reminds Voters of Registration Deadlines for 2025 Midterm Polls
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has reminded the public that September 30 is the final day to register for the 2025 midterm elections.
Additionally, August 31 marks the last day to register under the “Register Anywhere Program” (RAP), which allows qualified registrants to sign up at various RAP sites.
Qualified voters must present valid IDs and meet residency requirements, and are encouraged to refer to the Commission on Elections (Comelec) for further registration details. (Manila Bulletin)
Video: Panawagang ibalik ang Voter’s ID, pinag-aaralan na ng COMELEC
Earlier this year, the Commission on Elections announced that they are studying the public’s call, particularly from overseas Filipino workers, to reintroduce the issuance of Voter’s ID. COMELEC is assessing the funding source and the system implementation for this move.
Conclusion
The revival of the voter’s ID in digital form by Comelec marks a significant advancement in the Philippine electoral process.
By leveraging technology, Comelec aims to make voting more accessible and secure for Filipinos abroad.
This not only promotes greater voter participation but also aligns with the broader goal of inclusive and transparent elections.
Stay informed and prepare early to take full advantage of this new digital platform for the 2025 elections.