The election season is both exciting and overwhelming. Many of us have already locked in our votes on whom we would like to lead the country for the next six years. Some are still undecided, while others are still doing their due diligence through research. The May 9 national and local elections will determine our country’s new set of leaders. This makes this year’s election equally exciting and essential—considering that the next administration will have to drive the country’s future while continuing our fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) tallied around 67.5 million voters—of which 5 million are first-time voters. Like anything else in life, first-time experiences are always monumental and memorable. So, before you get lost in the excitement, we are giving you some tips on how you can make the most out of your voting experience.
First-time voter pre-election assignment
We are already at this point of the campaign season where the names of candidates we will shade for a specific position are getting clearer. But in case you are still unsure about the elective positions we need to vote for in the national elections, here is a quick list:
A total of 18,180 elective positions are being vied for by politicians from across the Philippines, with 77 national posts and 18,103 local posts. Before heading to your precinct, you should already have an idea of whom to vote for the positions above to avoid accidentally shading random names.
With the number of positions we need to elect, it is best to do your research, watch interviews and debates, and talk to others to ask for opinions. This way, arriving at a sound decision will be easier. Remember, your vote matters. Your vote will determine your future.
Check your precinct ahead of election day
Two weeks before the May 9 election, COMELEC has finally released the Precinct Finder, where voters can check their registration status, polling place, and precinct number. Though minutes after the link went live, many took to social media to complain about inaccurate details, e.g., misspellings; “no records found” presented by the database. If you encounter the same problem, call the COMELEC hotlines at (02) 8525-9334 or (02) 8523-7084 or visit the nearest COMELEC office.
What to bring with you when you cast your vote?
Remember, you can only cast your votes on May 9, 2022, from 6 AM to 7 PM. Expect that hundreds of people will be in your precinct, so we highly suggest you come in early to avoid the influx of people wishing to cast their votes.
Since we are still in the pandemic, observe proper health protocols. Have your temperature checked, wear your mask, and bring your alcohol. You may also bring your drinking water as it could get hot and crowded, depending on when you reach your precinct.
Things to do when you arrive at your precinct.
These are some friendly reminders, especially if it’s your first time participating in the national and local elections. Soon as you finish casting your votes, do not take selfies or photos of your filled-out ballot or voter’s receipt. This is prohibited as it is considered creating a carbon copy.
When you are done having your finger inked, exit the polling center to give way to others waiting to cast their votes. If you are not one of the poll watchers, leave the premises to avoid crowding the polling center. Remember, we are still in the pandemic.
Vote wisely. Vote safely.
The 2022 election is crucial for the country because it will determine the future we would like to have. Your vote is important because it is one of the many ways you can exercise your rights and because your vote will count towards a better Philippines. You have the power to make and be the change you want to see. Vote wisely. Vote safely.
