In a decisive move, the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) has successfully concluded the voter registration process ahead of the 2025 mid-term elections in the Philippines, reaching its target of 3 million new registrants without extending the September 30 deadline.
According to COMELEC Chairman George Garcia, extensive preparations and early campaigning helped manage the influx of applicants as they rushed to register before the deadline. “The registration process has been smooth, and most voters registered early, which is reflected in the manageable lines on the final day,” affirmed Garcia. This proactive approach ensured an orderly registration period, preventing the last-minute overcrowding seen in previous election years.
On this final day, citizens had until 3 p.m. to visit COMELEC offices or satellite sites in shopping malls nationwide, marking their last chance to participate in the May 12, 2025 elections. The smooth closure of this phase marks a crucial step in ensuring the enfranchisement of millions of Filipinos who will exercise their right to vote next year.
Amidst finishing voter registration, COMELEC also embarks on the next stage with the opening of Certificate of Candidacy (COC) filings starting October 1. Aspiring candidates for various positions in the 2025 mid-term elections have until October 8 to submit their applications either in-person or via authorized representatives. The submission window will operate daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
With a strategic focus on both voter participation and candidate preparation, COMELEC is setting the stage for a well-organized election season. The successful culmination of current registration efforts reflects not only efficient planning but also a significant engagement with the Filipino populace, priming the nation’s democratic process for another chapter of electoral participation.
