The 2025 Philippine elections are now underway for Filipinos abroad.
But what if you haven’t received your ballot?
If you’re an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) or resident, and you’re wondering where your ballot is—or whether you can still vote—join us as we go through the most common issues and what actions you can take to make sure your vote still counts.
Why Some Overseas Voters Didn’t Get a Ballot
Here are the most common reasons you may not have received your ballot:
- You’re not on the Certified List of Overseas Voters (CLOV)
You must be officially listed to vote abroad. - Your address on record is outdated
If you moved but didn’t update your details, your ballot may have been sent to your previous address. - Your country requires in-person voting
Not all locations allow mail or online voting. Some voters need to go to the embassy or consulate to cast their vote. - Delays in delivery
Some ballots are still in transit, especially in countries with slower mailing systems.
Step 1: Check If You’re on the Voters List
Start by confirming that you are on the Certified List of Overseas Voters (CLOV).
Visit the COMELEC website to find your name:
CLOV 2025 Directory
Also try the COMELEC Precinct Finder for added verification:
COMELEC Precinct Finder
Make sure your name appears correctly and that your listed location matches where you are now.
Step 2: Contact Your Embassy or Consulate
If you’re on the CLOV but still haven’t received your ballot, contact your local Philippine embassy or consulate immediately.
You can use the following message template:
Subject: Overseas Voting Concern – Missing Ballot
Body:
Hello, I’m [Full Name], a registered voter based in [Country]. I have not received my ballot for the 2025 Philippine elections and would like to confirm if I am on the CLOV and ask about possible next steps.
My voter registration number is [insert if known].
Thank you for your assistance.
Find your nearest embassy or consulate through the DFA’s directory:
Philippine Embassies and Consulates
Step 3: Know Your Country’s Voting Method and Deadline
Each country has different voting procedures. Be sure to verify which one applies to your location:
- Postal voting: If your ballot has not arrived, follow up with the consulate.
- In-person voting: You may need to physically appear at the designated voting site.
- Online voting: If your country allows it, you should have received instructions from COMELEC via email or post.
The official deadline for overseas voting is May 12, 2025, so act quickly if you have not received any voting materials.
Step 4: Ask About Alternative Voting Options
In some countries, voters who didn’t receive their ballot may be allowed to vote in person at the consulate.
This is not guaranteed, so it’s important to confirm with your local embassy and document your situation.
If online voting is available, it may serve as your backup. Follow any instructions provided to log in securely and vote.
Reminders About Internet Voting for OFWs
If your country is eligible for online voting, here are key things to keep in mind:
- You must pre-enroll to use the COMELEC Internet Voting system.
Without pre-enrollment, you will not be able to access the voting portal. - Pre-enrollment began on 20 March 2025 via the official COMELEC Voting Portal.
Check your email or contact your embassy if you missed the instructions. - The overseas voting period runs from 13 April to 12 May 2025, ending at 7:00 PM (Philippine Standard Time).
After this date, the system will close and late ballots will not be counted.
Double-check your eligibility, pre-enroll early, and keep your login details secure.
For updates, refer to official channels and monitor announcements tagged under #2025OverseasVoting.
Recent Updates
Comelec Addresses Fraud Allegations in Online Voting
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has refuted claims of fraud in its internet-based voting system for overseas Filipinos.
Concerns arose after voters reported discrepancies between their chosen candidates and the names displayed on QR codes used for ballot verification.
Comelec Chair George Garcia clarified that the QR codes contain encrypted scripts as a security measure to prevent vote-buying.
He assured voters that their actual selections are preserved and will be verified after the voting period ends on May 12, 2025.
Despite the controversy, Comelec emphasized the system’s safety, transparency, and reliability. (Inquirer)
Internet Voting Pushes Forward Despite Legal Challenges
The first-ever internet voting for overseas Filipinos continues as the Supreme Court has yet to act on a petition to halt the process.
Comelec Chairman George Erwin Garcia emphasized the poll body’s commitment to implementing its En Banc resolution, which was promulgated two years ago.
He clarified that the Overseas Absentee Voting Act allows the exploration of automated election systems, including digital ballots.
With all overseas voting posts now operational, over 50,000 registered voters are participating in this groundbreaking election method.
This marks a new chapter in making elections more accessible for Filipinos abroad. (Inquirer)
Video: Overseas voting para sa 2025 elections, pormal nang sinimulan
The overseas voting for the 2025 elections has officially started on April 13, 2025.
Filipinos abroad can now cast their votes until May 12, 2025, ensuring their voices are heard in shaping the nation’s future.
This marks a step forward in empowering overseas voters through accessible and inclusive election processes.
The initiative highlights the commitment to engaging Filipinos worldwide in the democratic journey.
Conclusion
Missing your ballot doesn’t have to mean missing your chance to vote.
Check your status, reach out to your consulate, and explore the options available in your country. The earlier you act, the better your chances of resolving the issue in time.
Every vote matters—especially yours. Let’s make sure it gets counted.