MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Thursday approved to retain election watchdogs Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV) and National Movement for Free Elections (Namfrel) as its citizens’ arms for the 2025 National and Local Elections.
“The Commission, after due deliberation, resolved, as it hereby resolves, to approve the continuing accreditation of the PPCRV and Namfrel as citizens’ arms in any and all elections, plebiscites, recalls and referenda to be conducted by the Comelec,” a Comelec resolution dated July 14 read.
The poll body then required the two election watchdogs to submit a complete list of officers including their provincial, municipal, and city coordinators or their equivalent; a comprehensive or detailed plan of action and activities leading to the 2025 elections and thereafter; and a report of accomplishments and recommendations after each electoral exercise.
“Non-compliance shall result in the revocation of said continuing accreditation,” Comelec said.
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Under Section 52(k) of the Omnibus Election Code of the Philippines, Comelec must enlist a non-partisan citizens’ arm to assist in “ensuring free, orderly and honest elections in any constituency.”
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