The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) has made an important announcement regarding the pre-voting enrolment period for Overseas Filipino voters. In a post from the official Facebook Page of COMELEC, they have stated that the pre-voting enrolment will be held from March 10, 2025 to May 7, 2025 for voters who will be participating in the internet voting system during the 2025 National and Local Elections.
Only eligible registered voters in the Certified List of Overseas Voters (CLOV) are permitted to participate in the pre-voting enrolment and the subsequent internet voting process. It is necessary that voters confirm their inclusion in the CLOV to ensure their eligibility to register and cast their votes in the 2025 National and Local Elections.
Key Dates and Overseas Voting Period Timeline
Overseas Filipino voters registered with Philippine Posts that are adopting internet voting must enroll in the Overseas Voting and Counting System (OVCS).
The pre-voting enrolment period is from March 10, 2025 (Monday) to May 7, 2025 (Wednesday).
Meanwhile, the Overseas Voting period for the elections will take place from April 13, 2025 (Sunday) to May 12, 2025 (Monday), concluding at 7:00 p.m. Philippine Standard Time.
Requirements / Eligibility
- Must be a Filipino based in countries where internet voting is allowed
- Must be a registered overseas voter (those who have registered before the deadline last September 2024)
List of Countries Available for Overseas Voting
COMELEC recently released a YouTube video featuring actor and comedian Michael V, sharing important information about overseas voting for the 2025 National and Local Elections. The video provides a comprehensive list of countries where overseas voting will be available, spanning Asia & Pacific, the Middle East & Africas, Europe, North & Latin Americas. Please see the screenshot list below for the list.
Methods of Enrolment
Overseas voters can enroll through several convenient methods, ensuring accessibility no matter their circumstances. The following options are available for pre-voting enrolment:
- Self-Enrolment: Voters may use their own internet-capable devices during the pre-voting enrolment period.
- Voting Kiosk: Philippine Posts will host voting kiosks that voters can visit during the Overseas Voting period.
- Field/Mobile Pre-Voting Enrolment: Philippine Posts may also schedule field or mobile enrolment sessions to further accommodate voters.
Enrolment Process
Regardless of the chosen method of enrolment, voters must adhere to these specific procedures:
- Sign-Up: Use the official link provided by the COMELEC for pre-voting enrolment.
- Follow Instructions: Complete the process by carefully following the steps outlined in the provided materials.
- Confirmation: Once successfully enrolled, voters will be granted access to cast their votes online during the 30-day Overseas Voting period.
Video: Infomercial on Pre-Enrolment for Internet Voting
As mentioned, here’s a video with Michael V explaining the process of pre-voting enrolment and how overseas voters can cast their votes online. You may visit the official COMELEC Facebook page or YouTube channel for this informative video.
For a detailed list of the modes of voting applicable to specific Philippine Posts, visit the following link posted on COMELEC’s official Facebook page: Specific Modes of Overseas Voting. Additional information is also available on the Office for Overseas Voting PH Facebook page and COMELEC’s social media accounts.
Official Sources
The announcement is supported by COMELEC Resolution No. 11061, as amended by COMELEC Resolution No. 11061-A. To stay updated and ensure the accuracy of the enrolment process, voters are encouraged to rely only on official communications from COMELEC.
This pre-voting enrolment initiative underscores the continuing efforts of COMELEC to make voting accessible and efficient for Filipinos living overseas. With the enhanced system and clear guidelines in place, voters are empowered to actively participate in shaping the country’s democratic future.