Did you know that in 2022, Hong Kong ranked fourth globally in terms of the number of overseas Filipino voter registrations? With a staggering 93,800+ registrations, it’s evident that the Filipino community in Hong Kong takes their civic duty seriously.
In line with this, the Philippine Consulate General in Hong Kong reported the success of the 2022 Overseas Voting for the People’s Republic of China, encompassing not only Hong Kong but also votes from registered overseas voters in Beijing, Macau SAR, Guangzhou, Chongqing, and Xiamen. This remarkable turnout underscores the active engagement and commitment of the Filipino community in Hong Kong to the democratic process. Learn more about the overseas voter registration process in Hong Kong through this guide. Let’s get started!
In light of the significant interest and engagement of the Filipino community in Hong Kong in the overseas voting process, the Philippine Consulate General in Hong Kong has been diligently preparing for the upcoming election.
To streamline and enhance the registration process, the Consulate has proactively promoted the use of the IREHISTRO platform for online overseas voting registration.
This user-friendly portal, endorsed by the Commission on Elections of the Philippines (COMELEC), provides eligible Filipino nationals in Hong Kong with a convenient and efficient means to register for the 2025 National Elections.
By actively encouraging the community to utilize the iRehistro portal, the Consulate aims to ensure that every eligible voter has the opportunity to participate in this vital democratic exercise, further reinforcing the community’s active participation in shaping the nation’s future.
Philippine (Midterm) Election – May 13, 2025
The upcoming Philippine Senate election, set for May 13, 2025, is a momentous event in the country’s history.
This election, which occurs every six years, marks the 35th time it has taken place.
What’s really capturing everyone’s attention are the 12 senatorial positions that were last filled in 2019.
People are eager to know who will be running for these important roles.
The senators elected in this significant election will serve in their positions until June 30, 2031.
They will work alongside the senators elected in 2022, who will hold office until June 30, 2028.
Together, they will make up the Senate for the 20th Congress of the Philippines.
This election is happening at the same time as other crucial elections, including those for the House of Representatives and local officials above the barangay level.
All of this underscores the election’s potential to shape the political landscape of the Philippines.
Qualifications / Eligibility
- Citizenship: To vote, you must be a Filipino citizen, whether you were born as one or obtained citizenship through the legal process. This rule is important because it ensures that those who genuinely care about the Philippines’ future have the privilege to vote.
- Residency: Your current living situation is crucial. You must either be residing abroad or have definite plans to be abroad during the 30-day voting period, which runs from April 13, 2025, to May 12, 2025.
- Age: Make sure you’re old enough. You must be at least 18 years old on May 12, 2025, which is the election day. This ensures that only adults have the opportunity to be part of the voting population.
- Disqualifications: Check that you’re not disqualified according to Philippine laws on voting eligibility. Here are the reasons you might be disqualified:
- Loss of Filipino Citizenship: If you lost your Filipino citizenship according to Philippine laws, you can’t vote. Be aware of your current citizenship status before attempting to vote.
- Pledging Loyalty to Another Country: If you’ve publicly renounced your Filipino citizenship or sworn allegiance to another country (except if you have dual citizenship under Republic Act 9225), you can’t vote. However, if you have dual citizenship, you are allowed to vote.
- Criminal Conviction: If you’ve been convicted of a crime that could result in at least one year of imprisonment, you are disqualified from voting. However, this disqualification can be lifted if you receive a full pardon or amnesty. If you fall into this category, you can start voting again five years after completing your sentence.
- Declared as Insane or Incompetent: Any Filipino living abroad who has been previously declared insane or incompetent by a qualified authority in the Philippines or abroad, as confirmed by the Philippine Embassy, consulates, or Foreign Service offices, cannot vote. However, this disqualification can be reversed if the qualified authority later certifies that you are sane or competent.
By understanding these rules about who can and can’t vote, you can ensure that you meet all the requirements for participating in the May 2025 Philippine Senate Election.
Your vote is your way of influencing your homeland’s future, and every eligible Filipino living abroad plays an important role in this democratic process. Your participation matters greatly in shaping the destiny of your nation.
Requirements
- Valid Passport: First, ensure that your Philippine passport is not expired. It’s crucial for the voting process. Also, make photocopies of the essential passport pages you’ll need to provide.
- Get a Passport if Needed: If your passport is not valid, don’t worry. Visit the nearest foreign service post, and they will help you with the necessary certification. They’ll either confirm your documents for passport issuance or explain why you don’t have one.
- For Seafarers: If you work at sea, include a photocopy of your Seaman’s Book or proof of your seafaring status along with your passport or certification.
- Dual Citizens: If you have dual citizenship, submit your Dual Citizenship certificate or Order of Approval (original and copy) along with documents from steps 1 or 2.
- Personal Appearance: In most cases, you’ll need to go in person for biometric recording to ensure security and accuracy.
- Complete the Voting Form: Fill out Overseas Voting Form 1 (OVF 1) on the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) website. If you’ve already registered with complete biometric data, you can use the Office for Overseas Voting’s (OFOV) Virtual Frontline Services (VFS) for specific applications.
- Transfer of Registration: If you want to transfer your registration from your overseas post to a Philippine Municipality, City, or District, apply at your intended voting area’s local Office of the Election Officer. Just follow the local voter registration rules.
By carefully following these steps, you’ll be all set to participate in the democratic process and make sure your vote counts, no matter where you are in the world.
Your voice is essential, and registering as an overseas voter enables you to contribute to the future of the Philippines. Don’t miss this chance to make a positive impact!
How to Register at the Philippine Consulate General in Hong Kong
Step 1: Get Your Important Documents Ready
Before you begin the overseas voter registration, make sure you have all the required documents ready:
- Your Valid Philippine Passport: Your current Philippine passport is your main identification. Keep it nearby when you register.
- Other Papers if You Don’t Have a Passport: If you don’t have a valid passport, there are other options:
- A certificate from the Philippine Embassy/Consulate General explaining your passport situation.
- If you’ve regained Filipino Citizenship under Republic Act No. 9225, you’ll need the original or a certified true copy of the Order of Approval or Identification Certificates.
- Seafarers, remember to include a photocopy of your Seafarer’s Book.
Step 2: Fill Out the Overseas Voter Registration Form (OVF1)
You can get an Overseas Voter Registration Form (OVF1) from your local registration center or online. Carefully fill out all the fields on the form.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Take your completed Overseas Voter Registration Form (OVF1) and the necessary documents to the designated registration center in person. Double-check that everything is in order before you submit it.
Step 4: Registration Period
Please note that for the May 2025 Philippine Senate Election, the registration period is from December 9, 2022, to September 30, 2024. Register within this timeframe to ensure you can cast your vote.
Step 5: Document Verification
After you submit your application, authorities will review your documents and information to confirm your eligibility for overseas voting.
Step 6: Wait for Approval
Once your application is processed and verified, you’ll receive official confirmation that you’re successfully registered as an overseas voter. This is your ticket to participating in the upcoming election.
By following these steps, you can take part in the democratic process in the Philippines, even if you live in Hong Kong. Remember, your vote has the power to shape the future of your homeland, no matter the distance. Mark your calendars and be a part of the upcoming election – every vote counts!
Video: COMELEC Commissioner Ma. Rowena V. Guanzon’s Message on Overseas Voting
Check out this informative video clip from 2022, featuring a special message from COMELEC Commissioner Ma. Rowena V. Guanzon, speaking to overseas Filipinos, including those living in Hong Kong. In the video, Commissioner Guanzon discussed the Overseas Voter Registration taking place at Philippine Embassies and Consulates worldwide, all in anticipation of the Presidential Elections in May 2022. This video serves as an important reminder for overseas Filipinos to exercise their right and take part of nation-building through their participation during elections.
Contact Information for the Philippine Consulate General in Hong Kong
Address: Philippine Consulate General Fourteenth Floor, United Centre 95 Queensway, Admiralty, Hong Kong
Telephone number: 2823 8500 (Switchboard)
Office hours: Sunday to Thursday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Website: https://hongkongpcg.dfa.gov.ph/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/PHLinHK