Overseas Voters

Did you know that in the bustling city of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, there resides a vibrant community of Filipino expats who hold the power to shape the destiny of their homeland? With a staggering count of over 74,500 registered Filipino voters in the Consulate General of Jeddah in 2022, the call to exercise the right to suffrage has never been more significant. Overseas voter registration for Filipinos in Jeddah opens up a remarkable opportunity for them to make their voices heard in the most vital of ways, transcending geographical boundaries and bringing their influence back to the Philippines.

Together, let’s take a look at the crucial matter of overseas voter registration, shedding light on the steps, significance, and impact of this essential civic duty for the Filipino community in Jeddah and beyond.

The voting registration process for Filipinos in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, has been making significant strides in ensuring that every eligible Filipino voter has the opportunity to participate in their country’s democratic processes.

The announcement of the Resident Election Registration Board (RERB) which convened on July 17, 2023, at the Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah signifies a proactive approach to facilitating voter registration.

During this session, the RERB will address a wide range of applications, including registration, certification, correction of entries, and more, submitted between April 1 and June 30, 2023.

This process not only demonstrated the Consulate’s commitment to a transparent and accessible registration system but also paved the way for an increased number of Filipinos in Jeddah to exercise their invaluable right to vote and actively engage in shaping their nation’s future.

Philippine (Midterm) Election – May 13, 2025

The upcoming May 2025 Philippine Senate election is a pivotal moment in the nation’s democratic journey. This guide aims to provide you with essential information and steps to participate in this significant event, where your vote will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the Philippines.

Key Dates

• Election Day: The main election day is scheduled for May 13, 2025. However, for overseas voters, there is a window from April 13, 2025, to May 12, 2025, to cast your ballots.

The Significance of the Election

1. Legacy Senators: This election will determine the fate of the 12 senators originally elected in 2019. These senators will continue to shape the country’s legislative course until June 30, 2031. Their actions and decisions will have a profound impact on the nation.
2. Collaboration: The senators elected in 2025 will work alongside those elected in 2022, who will serve until June 30, 2028. Together, they will form the core of the Senate’s representation in the 20th Congress of the Philippines. Your vote will influence this collaboration.
3. Broader Political Landscape: The Senate election is part of a broader political landscape, running concurrently with critical elections for the House of Representatives and local officials beyond the barangay level. It’s an opportunity for Filipinos to collectively shape the nation’s governance.

Overseas Voter Registration

• Overseas voter registration for this historic event took place from December 9, 2022, to September 30, 2024. If you registered during this period, you are eligible to vote in the upcoming election.

Qualifications / Eligibility

1. Filipino Citizenship:
   • To participate in the May 2025 Philippine Senate Election, you must be a Filipino citizen, either by birth or through naturalization.
2. Residency Status:
   • You should either currently reside abroad or have plans to be abroad during the 30-day voting period. For the upcoming election, this period is from April 13, 2025, to May 12, 2025.
3. Age Requirement:
   • You must be at least 18 years old on May 12, 2025, which is the day of the election.
4. No Disqualifications:
   • You must not be otherwise disqualified by the laws governing voter eligibility in the Philippines.

Who Are Disqualified?

Certain conditions may disqualify you from participating in overseas elections. Here are the disqualifications you should be aware of:

1. Loss of Filipino Citizenship:
   • If you have lost your Filipino citizenship in accordance with Philippine laws, you are disqualified from voting.
2. Pledged Allegiance to a Foreign Country:
   • Individuals who have expressly renounced their Philippine citizenship or pledged their allegiance to a foreign country, with the exception of dual citizens as defined under Republic Act 9225, are disqualified.
3. Criminal Conviction:
   • Those who have been convicted by a court or tribunal with a final judgment for an offense punishable by imprisonment of not less than one year are disqualified. However, this disqualification can be removed through plenary pardon or amnesty. If you are disqualified under this subsection, you can regain the right to vote after five (5) years following the completion of your sentence.
4. Declared Insane or Incompetent:
   • Any citizen of the Philippines residing abroad who has been previously declared insane or incompetent by a competent authority in the Philippines or abroad, as verified by Philippine Embassy, consulates, or Foreign Service establishments concerned, is disqualified. This disqualification can be lifted if the competent authority subsequently certifies that you are no longer insane or incompetent.

By adhering to these qualifications and avoiding the disqualifications mentioned above, you can ensure that your voice is heard in the May 2025 Philippine Senate election.

Your participation will contribute to the democratic process and help shape the future of the Philippines.

Make sure to verify your eligibility and register to vote within the specified time frame to exercise your right to choose your representatives. Your vote matters, and it is a vital part of shaping the destiny of your homeland.

Requirements

1. Original and Photocopy of Valid Philippine Passport:

• Ensure that your Philippine passport is current and valid.
• Make a photocopy of the relevant pages of your passport for submission.

2. In the Absence of a Valid Passport:

• If you do not possess a valid passport, obtain a certification from the foreign service post.
• This certification should confirm that the foreign service post has reviewed your documents and found them sufficient to warrant a passport issuance.
• Alternatively, it should state that you are a valid passport holder but cannot produce it for a valid reason.

3. For Seafarers:

• If you work as a seafarer, include a photocopy of your Seaman’s Book or any other relevant document that proves your seafaring status. This should be submitted in addition to the passport or certification mentioned in points 1 and 2.

4. Dual Citizens:

• If you hold dual citizenship, submit your Dual Citizenship certificate or the Order of Approval (both original and photocopy) along with the documents from points 1 or 2.

5. Personal Appearance:

• In most cases, personal appearance is required to capture your biometrics. This step ensures the accuracy and security of the registration process.

6. Duly Filled Out OVF 1 Form:

• Complete the Overseas Voting Form 1 (OVF 1). You can find the form on the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) website.

Additional Note:

• Registered overseas voters with complete biometric data may also utilize the Office for Overseas Voting’s (OFOV) Virtual Frontline Services (VFS) for certain types of applications.

Transfer of Registration:

• If you need to transfer your registration from your overseas post to a Philippine Municipality, City, or District, you should file your application at the local Office of the Election Officer in the area where you intend to vote in the Philippines. Be sure to adhere to the rules and regulations governing local voter registration for this process.

How to Start Your Registration Online for Overseas Voting

Step 1: Gather the Necessary Documents Before diving into the online registration process, gather the following essential documents:

1. Valid Philippine Passport: Ensure that your Philippine passport is both up-to-date and valid.
2. Dual Citizenship Documents (if applicable): If you are a dual citizen, have your dual citizenship documents prepared and readily available.
3. Seaman’s Book (for Seafarers): Seafarers should have their Seaman’s Book ready for the registration process.

Step 2: Fill Out the Application Form Follow these steps to complete the online application form for overseas voting:

1. Visit the COMELEC Website: Go to the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) website, where they provide an online application form called “iRehistro for Overseas Voters Version 5.0.6.1.”
2. Accurate Data Entry: On the website, accurately fill in the required information as prompted. Ensure that all details are correct, as this information will be used for your voter registration.
3. Generate the OVF1 Form: After successfully filling out the form, the system will generate the OVF1 form. This form includes a QR code for verification purposes.

Step 3: Submit the Application Form Once you’ve generated the OVF1 form, follow these steps to submit your application:

1. Save as PDF: Save the OVF1 form as a PDF file on your device for printing.
2. Print on A4 Paper: Print the OVF1 form on an A4-sized sheet of paper. This printout serves as your official OVF1 form.
3. In-Person Submission: Personally submit the printed OVF1 form to the nearest Overseas Voting (OV) registration site. This step is crucial to process your voter registration application.

Important Information: This registration process is mandated by the Philippine Overseas Voting Act, overseen by the Office for Overseas Voting (OFOV), and governed by R.A. 9189 (amended by R.A. 10590). As an overseas Filipino worker (OFW), this process allows you to cast your vote from your host country, ensuring that your voice is heard in your homeland’s democratic elections.

How to Register at the Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Step 1: Gather Required Documents Before embarking on the overseas voter registration process, ensure that you have the necessary documents in hand. These include:

• Valid Philippine Passport: Your valid Philippine passport is the primary identification document required for registration. Make sure it is up-to-date and readily available during the registration process.
• Alternative Documents: In case you do not possess a valid passport, you can provide one of the following alternative documents:
  • A certification issued by the Philippine Embassy/Consulate General confirming the reception and review of your documents, which are found sufficient for passport issuance. Alternatively, this certification can state that you possess a valid passport but cannot produce it for a valid reason.
  • For individuals who have reacquired Filipino Citizenship under Republic Act No. 9225, you will need the original or certified true copy of the Order of Approval of your application to retain or reacquire Filipino citizenship issued by the Philippine Embassy/Consulate or your Identification Certificates issued by the Philippine Embassy/Consulate or the Bureau of Immigration.
  • Seafarers should provide a photocopy of their Seafarer’s Book.

Step 2: Complete the Overseas Voter Registration Form (OVF1) Proceed to obtain an Overseas Voter Registration Form (OVF1) either from the designated registration center or online. Ensure that you fill out the form accurately and completely.

Step 3: Submit Your Application It’s time to personally submit your completed Overseas Voter Registration Form (OVF1) along with the required documents to the designated registration center. Before submission, double-check that all your documents are in order and that your form is correctly filled out.

Step 4: Registration Period Bear in mind that the registration period for the May 2025 Philippine Senate Election spans from December 9, 2022, to September 30, 2024. To ensure your eligibility to vote, make sure to register within this specified timeframe.

Step 5: Verification After submitting your application, the authorities will meticulously review your documents and information to confirm your eligibility for overseas voting.

Step 6: Await Confirmation Once your application undergoes processing and verification, you will receive official confirmation of your successful registration as an overseas voter. This final step marks your readiness to participate in the democratic process by casting your vote in the upcoming election.

By following these steps diligently, you can ensure that your voice is heard in the Philippine Senate Election, even from afar. Your participation is a vital part of shaping the future of your homeland.

Contact Information for the Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Address: 4663 Fajr St., Al Rehab District 6, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Telephone number: +966555219614
Office hours: Sunday to Thursday, except Holidays from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
Website: https://jeddahpcg.dfa.gov.ph/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/PHLinJeddah

Google Map Location

Did you know that nearly 300,000 Filipinos living in Saudi Arabia, are registered to vote in the elections? This impressive number reflects the vibrant Filipino community in the region, with 74,656 voters registered at the Philippine Consulate General in Jeddah, 55,981 at the Philippine Overseas Labor Office in Al Khobar, and a whopping 151,968 registered Filipino voters at the Riyadh Philippine Embassy.

With Filipinos in Saudi Arabia’s significant impact on the voting landscape overseas, let’s delve into the essential aspects of Overseas Voter Registration for Filipinos in Riyadh, highlighting the significance of this process and the impact it has on the Filipino expatriate community. Keep on reading below.

In preparation for the upcoming 2025 Philippine National Elections, the Philippine Embassy in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, has been actively engaged in facilitating Overseas Voters’ Registration.

In a collaborative effort with VFS Global, the embassy organized a dedicated registration event at the Al Rass Chamber of Commerce on 17 August 2023.

This initiative aimed to provide Filipino expatriates in Riyadh with a convenient opportunity to exercise their right to vote.

Moreover, the embassy has gone a step further by introducing an Embassy-on-Wheels (EOW) program, which encompasses a range of services, including Assistance-to-Nationals (ATN), Consular Services, and Overseas Voting registration.

This mobile embassy initiative ensures that Filipino citizens residing in various locations can easily access essential services and participate in the electoral process.

Philippine (Midterm) Election – May 13, 2025

The May 2025 Philippine Senate election is a momentous occasion in the country’s democratic journey.

Your vote holds the power to shape the future of the Philippines, making your participation essential.

Mark your calendars for the main election day on May 13, 2025, but for overseas voters, there is a window from April 13, 2025, to May 12, 2025, to cast your ballots.

The election’s significance is underscored by several factors: first, it will determine the fate of the 12 senators originally elected in 2019, who will continue to shape the nation’s legislative course until June 30, 2031.

Second, the senators elected in 2025 will collaborate with those elected in 2022, who will serve until June 30, 2028, forming the core of the Senate’s representation in the 20th Congress.

Lastly, the Senate election is part of a broader political landscape, coinciding with crucial elections for the House of Representatives and local officials, providing Filipinos with an opportunity to collectively shape the nation’s governance.

If you registered as an overseas voter between December 9, 2022, and September 30, 2024, you are eligible to participate in this historic event.

Your voice matters, and this election is your chance to make it heard on the national stage.

Qualifications / Eligibility

The May 2025 Philippine Senate Election is a crucial event for our nation, and your participation is essential in shaping the future of the Philippines. To ensure that your voice is heard in this democratic process, you must meet specific eligibility criteria while avoiding disqualifications outlined in Philippine laws.

1. Filipino Citizenship:

• To participate in the May 2025 Philippine Senate Election, you must be a Filipino citizen, either by birth or through naturalization.

2. Residency Status:

• You should either currently reside abroad or have plans to be abroad during the 30-day voting period. For the upcoming election, this period is from April 13, 2025, to May 12, 2025.

3. Age Requirement:

• You must be at least 18 years old on May 12, 2025, which is the day of the election.

4. No Disqualifications:

• You must not be otherwise disqualified by the laws governing voter eligibility in the Philippines.

Who Are Disqualified?

Certain conditions may disqualify you from participating in overseas elections. Here are the disqualifications you should be aware of:

1. Loss of Filipino Citizenship:

• If you have lost your Filipino citizenship in accordance with Philippine laws, you are disqualified from voting.

2. Pledged Allegiance to a Foreign Country:

• Individuals who have expressly renounced their Philippine citizenship or pledged their allegiance to a foreign country, with the exception of dual citizens as defined under Republic Act 9225, are disqualified.

3. Criminal Conviction:

• Those who have been convicted by a court or tribunal with a final judgment for an offense punishable by imprisonment of not less than one year are disqualified. However, this disqualification can be removed through plenary pardon or amnesty. If you are disqualified under this subsection, you can regain the right to vote after five (5) years following the completion of your sentence.

4. Declared Insane or Incompetent:

• Any citizen of the Philippines residing abroad who has been previously declared insane or incompetent by a competent authority in the Philippines or abroad, as verified by the Philippine Embassy, consulates, or Foreign Service establishments concerned, is disqualified. This disqualification can be lifted if the competent authority subsequently certifies that you are no longer insane or incompetent.

By adhering to these qualifications and avoiding the disqualifications mentioned above, you can ensure that your voice is heard in the May 2025 Philippine Senate election.

Your participation will contribute to the democratic process and help shape the future of the Philippines.

Make sure to verify your eligibility and register to vote within the specified time frame to exercise your right to choose your representatives. Your vote matters, and it is a vital part of shaping the destiny of your homeland.

Requirements

1. Original and Photocopy of Valid Philippine Passport:

• Ensure your Philippine passport is current and valid.
• Make a photocopy of the relevant pages of your passport for submission.

2. In the Absence of a Valid Passport:

• If you do not possess a valid passport, obtain a certification from the foreign service post.
• This certification should confirm that the foreign service post has reviewed your documents and found them sufficient to warrant a passport issuance.
• Alternatively, it should state that you are a valid passport holder but cannot produce it for a valid reason.

3. For Seafarers:

• If you work as a seafarer, include a photocopy of your Seaman’s Book or any other relevant document that proves your seafaring status. This should be submitted in addition to the passport or certification mentioned in points 1 and 2.

4. Dual Citizens:

• If you hold dual citizenship, submit your Dual Citizenship certificate or the Order of Approval (both original and photocopy) along with the documents from points 1 or 2.

5. Personal Appearance:

• In most cases, personal appearance is required to capture your biometrics. This step ensures the accuracy and security of the registration process.

6. Duly Filled Out OVF 1 Form:

• Complete the Overseas Voting Form 1 (OVF 1). You can find the form on the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) website.

Additional Note:

• Registered overseas voters with complete biometric data may also utilize the Office for Overseas Voting’s (OFOV) Virtual Frontline Services (VFS) for certain types of applications.

Transfer of Registration:

• If you need to transfer your registration from your overseas post to a Philippine Municipality, City, or District, file your application at the local Office of the Election Officer in the area where you intend to vote in the Philippines. Be sure to adhere to the rules and regulations governing local voter registration for this process.

How to Start Your Registration Online for Overseas Voting

Step 1: Gather the Necessary Documents Before embarking on the online voter registration process, make sure you have the following essential documents in hand:

1. Valid Philippine Passport: Ensure that your Philippine passport is up-to-date and valid.
2. Dual Citizenship Documents (if applicable): If you hold dual citizenship, have your dual citizenship documents prepared and readily available.
3. Seaman’s Book (for Seafarers): Seafarers should have their Seaman’s Book ready for the registration process.

Step 2: Fill Out the Application Form

Follow these steps to complete the online application form for overseas voting:

1. Visit the COMELEC Website: Go to the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) website, where they provide an online application form called “iRehistro for Overseas Voters Version 5.0.6.1.”
2. Accurate Data Entry: On the website, accurately fill in the required information as prompted. Ensure that all details are correct, as this information will be used for your voter registration.
3. Generate the OVF1 Form: After successfully filling out the form, the system will generate the OVF1 form. This form includes a QR code for verification purposes.

Step 3: Submit the Application Form

Once you’ve generated the OVF1 form, follow these steps to submit your application:

1. Save as PDF: Save the OVF1 form as a PDF file on your device for printing.
2. Print on A4 Paper: Print the OVF1 form on an A4-sized sheet of paper. This printout serves as your official OVF1 form.
3. In-Person Submission: Personally submit the printed OVF1 form to the nearest Overseas Voting (OV) registration site. This step is crucial to process your voter registration application.

Important Information: This registration process is mandated by the Philippine Overseas Voting Act, overseen by the Office for Overseas Voting (OFOV), and governed by R.A. 9189 (amended by R.A. 10590). As an overseas Filipino worker (OFW), this process allows you to cast your vote from your host country, ensuring that your voice is heard in your homeland’s democratic elections. Your participation in the electoral process is essential in shaping the future of the Philippines.

How to Register at the Philippine Embassy in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Before embarking on the overseas voter registration process, ensure that you have the necessary documents in hand. These include:

• Valid Philippine Passport: Your valid Philippine passport is the primary identification document required for registration. Make sure it is up-to-date and readily available during the registration process.
• Alternative Documents: In case you do not possess a valid passport, you can provide one of the following alternative documents:
  • A certification issued by the Philippine Embassy/Consulate General confirming the reception and review of your documents, which are found sufficient for passport issuance. Alternatively, this certification can state that you possess a valid passport but cannot produce it for a valid reason.
  • For individuals who have reacquired Filipino Citizenship under Republic Act No. 9225, you will need the original or certified true copy of the Order of Approval of your application to retain or reacquire Filipino citizenship issued by the Philippine Embassy/Consulate or your Identification Certificates issued by the Philippine Embassy/Consulate or the Bureau of Immigration.
  • Seafarers should provide a photocopy of their Seafarer’s Book.

Step 2: Complete the Overseas Voter Registration Form (OVF1)

Proceed to obtain an Overseas Voter Registration Form (OVF1) either from the designated registration center or online. Ensure that you fill out the form accurately and completely.

Step 3: Book an Appointment at the Embassy’s official portal

Once you have gathered/accomplished all the documentary requirements and forms, the next step is to book an appointment online by clicking this link.

Select Other Consular Services Appointment, then from there, follow the instructions provided.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

It’s time to personally submit your completed Overseas Voter Registration Form (OVF1) along with the required documents to the designated registration center. Before submission, double-check that all your documents are in order and that your form is correctly filled out.

Step 4: Registration Period Bear in mind that the registration period for the May 2025 Philippine Senate Election spans from December 9, 2022, to September 30, 2024. To ensure your eligibility to vote, make sure to register within this specified timeframe.

Step 5: Verification After submitting your application, the authorities will meticulously review your documents and information to confirm your eligibility for overseas voting.

Step 6: Await Confirmation Once your application undergoes processing and verification, you will receive official confirmation of your successful registration as an overseas voter. This final step marks your readiness to participate in the democratic process by casting your vote in the upcoming election.

Contact Information for the Philippine Embassy in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Address: Diplomatic Quarter, C3 Alradeef St.
Telephone number: (0096611) 482-3559
Office Hours: Sunday to Thursday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Website: https://riyadhpe.dfa.gov.ph/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/PHLinKSA

Google Map Location