In preparation for the upcoming midterm elections in May 2025, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) is considering implementing early voting and mall voting to provide options for vulnerable sectors, such as senior citizens, pregnant women, and persons with disabilities (PWDs) to cast their votes.
Comelec Chairman George Garcia announced that the poll body is planning to allow early voting for senior citizens, pregnant women, and PWDs from 5 a.m. to 7 a.m. during election day. This option aims to protect these individuals from the hot weather and potential exhaustion that may come with waiting in line with the large number of regular voters.
Garcia mentioned that it is important to provide these vulnerable groups with the opportunity to vote in a more comfortable and convenient environment to ensure that their voices are still heard in the electoral process. In addition to early voting, the Commission is also looking into allowing voting in air-conditioned malls as an alternative voting location.
Despite calls for an extension of the voter registration deadline, Comelec spokesperson John Rex Laudiangco stated that the poll body is not inclined to do so as they need to focus on other election preparations. Voter registration is set to close in September, as scheduled.
The Comelec’s plans for early voting and mall voting are aimed at ensuring that all eligible voters, regardless of their physical condition, are able to participate in the democratic process and have their voices heard during the upcoming midterm elections.
