Comelec expands online registration to enable OFWs to vote in 2016

MANILA, Philippines - More overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) would be able to vote in 2016 as the online registration iRehistro project has been expanded all over the world, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) said yesterday.

In a statement, Comelec noted that the system would be expanded from Madrid, Spain – where it has been pilot tested since May 2014 – to all 85 foreign service posts worldwide.

The poll body added that the expansion was highly recommended by Philippine Ambassador to Spain Carlos Salinas and Department of Foreign Affairs-Overseas Voting Secretariat chairman Usec. Rafael Seguis following the success of the pilot testing.

Acting on the recommendation, the Comelec issued Minute Resolution No. 15-0147 on Feb. 24, approving the expansion of the iRehistro project and allotting funds for the system.

Seguis said that the project cuts the time needed for the registration process in half and that the online accomplishment of forms is “a sufficient incentive” for potential registrants to resort to the iRehistro system instead of the traditional method of voter registration.

“(The iRehistro system) will provide an alternative mode for potential registrants. In order to encourage new registrants, we have to offer them as many choices/options as possible so that they can select the mode of registration that best suits them. The iRehistro system is one such alternative, and a very attractive one at that,” he added.

Seguis said the project would also greatly benefit Filipino seafarers.

“If iRehistro system is adopted for all posts, those whose jurisdictions include ports where ships carrying Filipino seamen dock can expect a big jump in their registration figures,” he said.

According to Comelec spokesman James Jimenez, the poll body expects a major spike in the overseas Filipino voter registration turnout with the forthcoming expansion of the iRehistro project.

Jimenez urged all qualified Filipino voters overseas to visit the Comelec’s official website www.comelec.gov.ph  for more information on the iRehistro system.