By Gabriela Baron
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) warned the public on Monday, April 11, against the “unofficial” exit poll making the rounds on social media amid the ongoing overseas absentee voting (OAV).
In a Twitter advisory, Comelec Spokesperson James Jimenez stressed that “exit poll” is not the official tally of votes cast in the 2022 polls.
Jimenez also reiterated that the result of exit polls will only be announced after voting ends on May 9.
“Tandaan din na bibilangin lang ang mga boto ng Overseas Voting on May 9, [after] the close of polls,” he tweeted.
An “exit poll” is not the official tally of votes cast in the 2022 National and Local Elections. Tandaan din na bibilangin lang ang mga boto ng Overseas Voting on May 9, AFTER the close of polls. #votesafepilipinas
— James Jimenez (@jabjimenez) April 10, 2022
“As a general rule, unless na ang [naglabas] ng exit poll ay isang kilala at reputable na survey firm, hindi ito reliable. Lalo na sa social media, madaling gumawa ng official looking forms or graphics na mukhang legit,” Jimenez added.
As a general rule, unless na ang nag labas ng exit poll ay isang kilala at reputable na survey firm, hindi ito reliable. Lalo na sa social media, madaling gumawa ng official looking forms or graphics na mukhang legit. #votesafepilipinas https://t.co/xKPnECFper
— James Jimenez (@jabjimenez) April 10, 2022
Republic Act No. 9006 or the Fair Election Act states that exit polls may be announced after the closing of the polls on election day.
“[Exit polls] must clearly identify the total number of respondents, and the places where they were taken,” the law read.
About 1.6 million overseas Filipino voters started casting their votes for the May 2022 elections on Sunday, April 10.
