By Darryl John Esguerra | Philippine News Agency
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has called on overseas Filipinos to participate in the upcoming midterm elections through the Commission on Elections’ (Comelec) Online Voting and Counting System (OVCS), saying the new system makes voting more accessible and secure for Filipinos abroad.
In a video message released on Thursday, May 8, President Marcos encouraged eligible voters overseas to seize the opportunity to join the democratic process, stressing that online voting eliminates traditional barriers, such as travel and long lines.
“Tuloy-tuloy po ang overseas voting para sa Halalan 2025. Ito po ang inyong pagkakataong makilahok sa [paghubog sa] kinabukasan ng ating bayan,” the President said.
“Ngayon, mas madali na ang pagboto. Kahit nasaan kayo sa mundo, hindi na kailangang pumila o bumiyahe. Sa pamamagitan ng online voting, maipapahayag ninyo ang inyong boses ng mabilis, ligtas, at maayos,” the Chief Executive added, urging voters to be deliberate and thoughtful in choosing their leaders.
“Gamitin natin ang karapatang ito. Piliin natin ang kandidatong may malasakit, kakayahan, at may paninindigan. Sa tamang pagpili, sama-sama nating buuin ang isang Bagong Pilipinas,” President Marcos concluded.
The President’s message follows the Comelec’s approval of a three-day extension of the OVCS enrollment period, moving the deadline from May 7 to 11:59 p.m. on May 10, PST. The extension aims to accommodate requests from Filipino communities overseas and encourage greater participation.
Enrollment, which began on March 20, is required for overseas Filipinos to vote using the OVCS. Registration can be completed online via https://ov.comelec.gov.ph/enroll. (PNA)
