Comelec urges civil societies to participate in voter education

Civil society organizations can contribute to voter education, especially when it reduces the number of voters per polling place, requiring voters to cast their votes on time. FILE Photo/Gerwin Yudelmo

MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has called on civil society organizations (CSO) to participate in voter education.

Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez said that the help of CSOs in voter education is crucial, specifically when the poll body plans to reduce the number of voters per polling place, which requires voters to cast their votes quickly.

READ: Comelec eyes imposing one voter at a time inside polling place in 2022 elections

“The pressure will be on the voter, to make up their mind quickly enough, that it doesn’t bog the whole process,” he said during a forum organized by the House Committee on People’s Participation chaired by Rep. Florida “Rida” Robes.

“This is a challenge specifically for voter educators: you guys have to help us find a way,” he added.”

“This is a proper subject to ‘get out to vote’ campaign: how to be efficient, and how to be able to fill up the ballots in as little time as possible.”

He said CSOs could play a larger role in voter education by engaging the electorate to increase registration, especially among the youth, and by providing vital information about candidates running for national and local offices.

Comelec will do voter screening and assist before voters enter polling centers to prevent crowding at polling places, Jimenez said.

There are now 60 million registered Filipino voters, according to Comelec’s latest available data.

READ: Filipino voters reach 60 million with 2 million new registrants