Relevance of Registering to vote
With less than 100 days until the deadline for voter registration, the clock is ticking. This is especially true for those who wish to have their voices heard.
So, why exactly is registering so important? As the name suggests, eligible voters are required to register before they are permitted to participate in any future elections. This means that once you are registered, you will no longer need to repeat the process, but will still be eligible to vote in all succeeding elections.
Elections are a crucial part of the democratic process, and it is now more important than ever to let your opinions and views be heard. No matter your candidate of choice, it is integral to our democracy that you actively participate in all future elections.
Steps to follow for registration
To be eligible to vote, you must be (1) a Filipino citizen, (2) at least 18 years of age, and (3) a resident of the Philippines for at least one year and a resident for the place in which you intend to vote for at least 6 months.
Due to the pandemic, some choose to accomplish their forms at home. However, even if you do so, you are still required to go to your local Commission on Elections (COMELEC) office or the Offices of the Election Officer (OEO) to submit the said forms, get your photo taken, and leave your fingerprints and digital signature.
First, you will need to register your necessary information on the “iRehistro” website. Then, you will be presented with the option to book an appointment, however, you can also opt to do a walk-in visit instead.
Before you head to your local COMELEC office or the OEO, you must first accomplish and print certain forms, as well as bring a photocopy of any valid ID. For minors who turn 18 before the election, you are also required to also bring a photocopy of your birth certificate. While it is recommended that you do it prior to the visit, you still have the option of filling out these forms when you head to the office.
Necessary Forms
The “Irehistro” website can be accessed through this link:
The necessary forms can be accessed through this link:
Please note that September 30, 2021 is the last day for all possible voter registration. If you fail to register by then, you will have to wait for the next election to register.
The significance of this election
The upcoming 2022 election will be the first that our country has conducted in the middle of a global crisis such as the pandemic. As such, this presents a great challenge for the current administration to hold it. The process of going out to vote may indeed pose a threat to one's health and safety; however, many Filipinos still continue to register in order to exercise their rights. It does not matter who you are politically affiliated with or who you support — the best way to express your views and make a change is to register and vote.
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