Obtaining a Voter’s Certification in the Philippines is a straightforward process designed for individuals who have completed voter registration with the Commission on Elections (COMELEC)
This certification serves as an official document that verifies one’s registration status and can be used as a valid ID for various transactions.
Primarily aimed at registered voters, this certification is particularly useful for those needing to prove their voter status for official purposes, such as passport applications.
What is a Voter’s Certificate?
Voter’s Certification is a document issued by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) to registered voters in the Philippines.
It serves as proof of one’s registration status and can be used as a valid identification document for various transactions.
The certification is especially beneficial for those who need to prove their voter status for official purposes, such as passport applications.
Legal Basis
The legal mandate for voter’s certification in the Philippines is rooted in the Omnibus Election Code (Batas Pambansa Blg. 881) and Republic Act No. 8189, also known as “The Voter’s Registration Act of 1996.”
These laws outline the procedures for voter registration, the issuance of voter identification, and certification.
Benefits of Getting Certified as a Voter
- Civic Engagement: Being a registered voter enables you to participate in choosing your leaders and have a voice in the governance and future direction of the country.
- Eligibility for Public Office: Voter registration is a prerequisite if you ever decide to run for public office.
- Empowerment: Having a voter’s certification gives you the power to make your voice heard and influence the decisions that affect your community.
- Proof of Voter Status: The voter’s certification serves as an official document that verifies your registration status, which can be useful for various transactions such as passport applications.
- Free of Charge: Starting February 12, 2024, the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) has waived the ₱75 fee for obtaining a voter’s certification, making it accessible to all registered voters.
- Exemptions for Vulnerable Sectors: Seniors, persons with disabilities, persons deprived of liberty, and indigenous peoples can still obtain the voter’s certification for free even before the fee waiver takes effect.
Eligibility
To register as a voter in the Philippines, you must meet the following criteria:
- Age: At least 18 years old on or before election day.
- Citizenship: Must be a Filipino citizen.
- Residency: Must have resided in the Philippines for at least one year and in the place where you intend to vote for at least six months immediately preceding the election.
COMELEC Registration Requirements
To register, you must present a valid ID that shows your photo and signature. Accepted IDs include:
- National ID (PhilSys ID)
- Driver’s license
- Passport
- SSS/GSIS/UMID card
- NBI clearance
- Barangay ID
- And others listed by COMELEC.
Make sure to have multiple forms of ID ready, in case one is not accepted.
Step-by-Step Guide to Voter’s Registration
Step 1: Visit the COMELEC Registration Venue
Locate your nearest Office of the Election Officer (OEO) or any designated “Register Anywhere Program” (RAP) venue, which includes malls, government offices, and universities.
Step 2: Present Your Requirements
At the venue, provide your valid ID and the completed voter’s registration form, which must not be signed or thumb-marked until you are in the presence of an election officer.
Step 3: Biometric Capturing
Proceed to the biometrics station where your photograph, fingerprints, and signature will be captured.
Step 4: Receive Your Acknowledgment Receipt
After biometrics, you’ll sign a logbook and receive an acknowledgment receipt. Note that this does not yet mean you are a registered voter.
Step 5: Verification by the Election Registration Board
Your application will be reviewed by the board, and once approved, you will officially be registered.
How to Get Voter’s Certificate
Since the discontinuation of the voter’s ID card in 2017, a voter’s certification has been issued in its place.
This document is recognized as a valid ID and can be obtained at your local COMELEC office for free. Before February 2024, it was offered at no cost to seniors, PWDs, and indigenous members exclusively.
- Visit the COMELEC Office: Go to the local COMELEC office where you are registered.
- Present a Valid ID: Show a valid ID and provide a photocopy.
- Pay the Processing Fee: There is a fee of PHP 75.00 to get the certificate.
- Claim your voter’s certificate: Sign the record for receipt and claim your document.
Recent Updates
COMELEC RAP and ACM Experience at Luneta Park
Join the Register Anywhere Program and experience the new Automated Counting Machine at the COMELEC booth in Luneta Park until 5:00 PM today. The event is part of the Independence Day celebration with voter registration ongoing until September 30, 2024.
Qualified registrants in the National Capital Region can conveniently register at Special RAP sites without going back to their provinces. Remember to bring a valid government-issued ID for identification. Application forms are available for free at the registration sites or can be downloaded from www.comelec.gov.ph.
Chairman George Erwin Garcia oversaw a voter education fair at Cavite State University, educating students on voting rights and responsibilities. The event included a Special Register Anywhere Program session and a demonstration of the new Automated Counting Machine. Various election officials and university staff facilitated the informative and interactive session for CSU students.
Qualified Overseas Registrants can participate in the Overseas Voter Registration Caravan by bringing a valid Philippine Passport for identification. The OVF-1 Application Form is available for free at the registration site or can be downloaded from www.comelec.gov.ph. For accurate and additional information on overseas voter registration, visit the Office for Overseas Voting PH.
Video: PWEDE BA MAKAKUHA NG VOTERS CERTIFICATE PAGKA TAPOS MAGPA REGISTER SA COMELEC
After registering with COMELEC, individuals can request a Voter’s Certificate for passport application purposes. The Voter’s Certificate serves as proof of voter registration and can be used for various official transactions, including passport applications.
Conclusion
The ability to vote empowers you to shape the future of the Philippines.
By following this guide, you can be sure that your voice is heard in upcoming elections.
Register early to avoid the rush and meet all deadlines.
Remember, every vote counts in molding the governance of our country.