Getting Voter’s Certification in the Philippines is a straightforward process intended for individuals who have completed the voter’s registration with the Commission on Elections (COMELEC). This certificate serves as an official document that verifies one’s registration status and can be used as a valid ID for various transactions.
Targeted primarily at registered voters, the certificate paper is especially beneficial for those who need to prove their voter status for official purposes, such as passport applications. To obtain a Voter’s Certification, registered voters need to visit their local COMELEC office, present a valid ID, and pay a nominal fee, with exemptions available for seniors, PWDs, and indigenous members.
What is Voter’s Registration?
Voter’s registration is the process where individuals register with the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) to become eligible to vote in elections. It is essential for participation in national, local, and barangay elections. Please read our guide for voter’s registration for Philippine elections here.
Legal Basis
The mandate for voter registration is rooted in the Constitution of the Philippines, which ensures every Filipino citizen of legal age and with proper qualifications has the right to vote.
Benefits of Registering as a Voter
- Civic Engagement: Being registered enables you to participate in choosing your leaders.
- Eligibility for Public Office: Registration is a prerequisite if you ever decide to run for public office.
- Empowerment: It gives you a voice in the governance and future direction of the country.
Eligibility
To register as a voter in the Philippines, you must meet the following criteria:
- Age: At least 18 years old on or before election day.
- Citizenship: Must be a Filipino citizen.
- Residency: Must have resided in the Philippines for at least one year and in the place wherein they intend to vote for at least six months immediately preceding the election.
COMELEC Registration Requirements
To register, you must present a valid ID that shows your photo and signature. Accepted IDs include:
- National ID (PhilSys ID)
- Driver’s license
- Passport
- SSS/GSIS/UMID card
- NBI clearance
- Barangay ID
- And others listed by COMELEC.
Ensure you have multiple forms of ID ready, in case one is not accepted.
Step-by-Step Guide to Voter’s Registration
Step 1: Visit the Registration Venue
Locate your nearest Office of the Election Officer (OEO) or any designated “Register Anywhere Program” (RAP) venue, which includes malls, government offices, and universities.
Step 2: Present Your Requirements
At the venue, provide your valid ID and the completed voter’s registration form, which must not be signed or thumb-marked until you are in the presence of an election officer.
Step 3: Biometric Capturing
Proceed to the biometrics station where your photograph, fingerprints, and signature will be captured.
Step 4: Receive Your Acknowledgment Receipt
After biometrics, you’ll sign a logbook and receive an acknowledgment receipt. Note that this does not yet mean you are a registered voter.
Step 5: Verification by the Election Registration Board
Your application will be reviewed by the board, and once approved, you will officially be registered.
How to Get Voter’s Certification
Since the discontinuation of the voter’s ID card in 2017, a voter’s certification is issued instead. This document is recognized as a valid ID and can be obtained at your local COMELEC office for a ₱75 fee, free for seniors, PWDs, and indigenous members.
Getting Your Voter’s Certification
- Visit the COMELEC Office: Go to the local COMELEC office where you are registered.
- Present a Valid ID: Show a valid ID and provide a photocopy.
- Pay the Fee: Pay the ₱75 processing fee unless exempted.
Recent Updates
Satellite Registration for Voters in Davao City Malls
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) in Davao City, Philippines, has organized satellite registration for voters in select malls. On April 30, residents of the first and third districts can register at NCCC Mall Victoria and Gaisano Mall of Toril, respectively. This aims to provide convenient registration options for eligible voters in Davao City. (Sun Star)
Over 1.9 Million Voters Registered for 2025 Midterm Elections in the Philippines
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has reported a significant number of voter registrants for the upcoming May 2025 midterm elections. With a total of 1,920,887 registrants, the Calabarzon region recorded the highest number, followed by the National Capital Region and Central Luzon. The Comelec also announced that the contract for the Secure Electronic Transmission Services (SETS) project may be awarded to Ione Resources Inc. and Ardent Network Inc., who presented the lowest bid for automated voting. (Philstar Global)
Online Voting Preparation for Overseas Filipinos
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has announced that registered overseas Filipino voters must enroll their electronic gadgets, such as cellular phones, to participate in the 2025 midterm polls’ internet voting. This measure aims to ensure the security and integrity of the online voting process. The Comelec is currently procuring the Overseas Voting and Counting System (OVCS) for this purpose, with a joint venture emerging as the lowest bidder in the procurement process. (Manila Times)
GMA Network and COMELEC Collaborate on Special Voters Registration
GMA Network and the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) teamed up to facilitate a special voters registration event for the network’s employees and talents, streamlining the process to under 10 minutes. This move is part of COMELEC’s “Register Anywhere” program, aimed at simplifying the registration process for new and disenfranchised voters across various accessible locations. Since its launch, the program has successfully registered 1.7 million voters, contributing to GMA Network’s ongoing commitment to providing comprehensive election coverage. (Manila Bulletin)
Overseas Voter Education Targets Countries with High Filipino Population
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is focusing its overseas voter education efforts on countries with a significant Filipino presence, such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. By distributing information materials and conducting voter education activities, Comelec aims to encourage more Filipinos abroad to register for overseas voting. The current goal is to reach 3 million registered Filipinos abroad by the end of the ongoing voters’ registration period in September. (Business Mirror)
Video: [2025 NLE Voter Registration] Application for Registration (New Voter)
If you are at least 18 years old on the day of the 2025 National and Local Elections, a resident of the Philippines for at least 1 year, and have been a resident of your intended voting location for at least 6 months, you can file an Application for Registration (New Voter) at the Office of the Election Officer (OEO) in your area, Register Anywhere Program (RAP) sites, or Satellite/Mall Registration Sites.
Make sure to bring the required documents, including the CEF-1 Application Form and a valid ID. The voter registration period is from February 12, 2024, to September 30, 2024, and registration is open on Mondays to Saturdays, including holidays (except for March 28, 29, and 30, 2024), from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Conclusion
The ability to vote empowers you to shape the future of the Philippines. By following this guide, you can ensure that your voice is heard in upcoming elections. Register early to avoid the rush and ensure you meet all deadlines. Remember, every vote counts in molding the governance of our country.