Did you know that a whopping 28,523 overseas Filipino residents in Abu Dhabi have successfully registered to cast their votes in the 2022 national elections in the Philippines? This remarkable turnout reflects the vibrant democratic spirit of Filipinos as seen by the overseas voter registration numbers of those living in Abu Dhabi.
If you’re excited to take part in the next big Philippines elections happening soon, join us as we delve into the essential details of overseas voter registration for Filipinos in Abu Dhabi, shedding light on the significance of this process and how it empowers expatriates to participate in shaping their homeland’s future. Let’s get started!
Overseas voting registration in Abu Dhabi for Filipinos is a meticulously organized process, ensuring that every eligible expatriate has the opportunity to participate in the Philippines’ democratic elections.
The Resident Election Registration Board (RERB) of the Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi plays a crucial role in this endeavor.
Recently, the RERB held its first public hearing for the 2022-2025 National and Local Elections cycle, where they approved the registration of 256 overseas voters based in Abu Dhabi.
These registrations, submitted between December 2022 and March 2023, underwent thorough vetting and review by the RERB before receiving approval.
This transparent and diligent approach reflects the commitment of the Embassy to uphold the constitutional right to vote for every Filipino living in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.
With regular public hearings scheduled throughout the registration period until September 30, 2024, the process is designed to be accessible and inclusive, ensuring that overseas Filipinos can actively participate in the electoral process and have their voices heard.
You can find the list of approved registrants here.
Philippine (Midterm) Election – May 13, 2025
The May 2025 Philippine Senate election holds immense significance in the nation’s democratic landscape, marking the 35th election for members of the Senate of the Philippines, who serve six-year terms.
Scheduled for May 13, 2025, (April 13, 2025 to May 12, 2025 for overseas voters) this election is poised to determine the destiny of the 12 senators originally elected in 2019, generating widespread anticipation regarding potential contenders for these sought-after positions.
Those elected will shoulder the responsibility of shaping the country’s legislative direction until June 30, 2031.
Furthermore, they will collaborate with senators elected in 2022, whose tenure extends until June 30, 2028, to collectively constitute the Senate’s delegation to the 20th Congress of the Philippines.
This election occurs in tandem with other critical elections, including those for the House of Representatives and local officials beyond the barangay level, highlighting its pivotal role in charting the course of the nation’s political future.
Overseas voter registration for this historic event will take place from December 9, 2022, to September 30, 2024, ensuring the participation of Filipinos worldwide in shaping the country’s destiny.
Qualifications / Eligibility
- Filipino Citizenship:
- You must be a Filipino citizen, either by birth or naturalization.
- Residency Status:
- You should be abroad or will be abroad during the 30-day voting period, which for the upcoming election is from April 13, 2025, to May 12, 2025.
- Age Requirement:
- You must be at least 18 years old on May 12, 2025, the day of the election.
- No Disqualifications:
- You must not be otherwise disqualified by laws governing voter eligibility in the Philippines.
Who Are Disqualified?
Certain conditions may disqualify you from voting in overseas elections. Here are the disqualifications you should be aware of:
- Loss of Filipino Citizenship:
- If you have lost your Filipino citizenship in accordance with Philippine laws, you are disqualified from voting.
- 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.
- 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 disability 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.
- 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, contributing to the democratic process and the future of the Philippines.
Requirements
- Original and Photocopy of Valid Philippine Passport:
- Make sure your Philippine passport is up-to-date.
- Create a photocopy of the pertinent pages of your passport for submission.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Personal Appearance:
- In most cases, personal appearance is required to capture your biometrics. This step ensures the accuracy and security of the registration process.
- 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 found at this link.
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 Register Online for Overseas Voting
Step 1: Gather the Necessary Documents
- Ensure you have a valid Philippine passport.
- For dual citizens, Dual Citizenship Documents are acceptable.
- Seafarers should have their Seaman’s Book ready.
Step 2: Fill Out the Application Form
- Visit the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) website, which provides an online application form called iRehistro for Overseas Voters Version 5.0.6.1.
- Use this platform to fill out the required information accurately.
- Generate the OVF1 form, which will include a QR code for verification.
Step 3: Submit the Application Form
- Once you’ve encoded all the necessary details and generated the OVF1 form, save it as a PDF file on your device.
- Print the PDF on an A4-sized sheet of paper. This printout serves as your OVF1 form.
- Personally submit the printed OVF1 form to the nearest Overseas Voting (OV) registration site. This is a critical step in processing your voter registration application.
It’s important to note that 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 matters, and this guide makes it easier for you to register and contribute to the democratic process of the Philippines.
How to Register OFW Voting at the Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi
Step 1: Go to the Embassy
- Head to the Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi, which is situated at Villa 1, W-48, Street #8, Sector 2-23, Plot 51, P.O. Box 3215, Al Qubaisat, Abu Dhabi. The good news is that you don’t need an appointment to register.
Step 2: Visit the Registration Counter
- Upon arrival at the Embassy, proceed to the designated counter for voter’s registration. Embassy staff will be there to assist you throughout the process.
Step 3: Provide Your Details
- Approach the staff at the registration counter and share your details with them. They will guide you through the necessary steps to be included in the voter registration system.
- This may involve providing personal information such as your full name, date of birth, passport details, and other relevant data.
Step 4: Verify Your Information
- Ensure that all the information you provide is accurate and complete.
- Double-check your details with the staff to confirm that they have been correctly entered into the registration system. Accuracy is crucial to ensure that you are eligible to vote in the upcoming elections.
Step 5: Collect Confirmation
- After entering and confirming your details, the Embassy staff will provide you with confirmation or a receipt to acknowledge your voter registration.
- Keep this document in a safe place, as you may need it as proof of your registration status in the future.
Step 6: Stay Informed
- It’s essential to stay informed about any updates or changes related to the voter registration process.
- The Embassy may hold public hearings or provide additional guidance during the registration period. Be sure to check the Embassy’s official website or contact them for any updates or inquiries.
Contact Information of the PH Embassy in Abu Dhabi
Address: Villa 1, W-48, Street #8, Sector 2-23, Plot 51 P.O. Box 3215, Al Qubaisat, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Contact number: (+971) 50-813-7836
Website: https://abudhabipe.dfa.gov.ph/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/PHinUAE/
Office Hours:
Monday to Thursday : 7:30 am to 3:30pm
Friday : 7:30 am to 12:00 noon
Google Map Location
Map guide to the PH Embassy in UAE, Abu Dhabi office in Abu Dhabi, UAE: