In the midst of Iraq’s unique and diverse landscape, there exists a vibrant community of Filipinos, ranging in numbers from 1,640 to 4,204. While they may be far from the tropical shores of the Philippines, these individuals have a vital connection to their homeland that transcends borders – their right to vote. Overseas voter registration for Filipinos in Iraq is not just a bureaucratic process; it’s a crucial avenue for them to have a say in the future of their nation, no matter how many miles separate them from their beloved archipelago.
With this as our guide, let us delve into the intricacies of this overseas voting system and explore how Filipinos in Iraq can exercise their right to vote, making their voices heard in the democratic process of the Philippines. Keep on reading to learn more.
In the spirit of the rallying cry “Tara, vote!” echoing the hard-won right of suffrage, the Philippine Embassy in Iraq has been diligently preparing for the upcoming election. Recognizing the importance of ensuring that every Filipino in their jurisdiction has the opportunity to participate in the democratic process, the embassy has been actively engaging with the Filipino community, providing them with the necessary information and assistance to register and cast their votes. The embassy’s efforts serve as a testament to the enduring legacy of the suffrage movement, where the right to choose their leaders and shape the destiny of the nation is a cherished expression of love for their country, regardless of the distance that separates them from their homeland.
Philippine (Midterm) Election – May 13, 2025
The upcoming 2025 Philippine Senate election is a momentous event for the nation.
Scheduled for May 13, with overseas voting taking place from April 13 to May 12, this election happens once every six years, and the upcoming one is the 35th in its history.
What makes this election special is that Filipinos will select 12 senators, following the same process as in 2019.
People around the world are eagerly awaiting news about the candidates running for these important positions.
The senators elected in this ballot will serve until June 30, 2031, alongside their 2022 counterparts, who will hold office until June 30, 2028, together forming the Senate for the 20th Congress of the Philippines.
This election coincides with other significant events, making its impact on our nation’s politics even greater. As election day approaches, citizens are excited to exercise their right to vote, understanding its crucial role in shaping our country’s leadership.
This historic election is a turning point in our nation’s history, carrying both promise and responsibility as it plays a central role in determining the nation’s path.
It calls on every citizen to actively participate in the democratic process and contribute to our nation’s future.
This election is a milestone where all Filipinos have a vital role to play, marking a significant moment for the future of their beloved nation.
Qualifications / Eligibility
Citizenship Requirement: To join, you need to be a Filipino citizen, either by birth or through legal means. This rule is important to make sure that everyone involved is fully committed to shaping our nation’s future.
Residency Condition: Where you live matters. You should either live in another country or have solid plans to be abroad during the 30-day voting period, which is set from April 13, 2025, to May 12, 2025.
Age Criteria: Meeting these conditions also means being the right age. You must be at least 18 years old on Election Day, May 12, 2025. This ensures that voters are mature enough to make informed choices for our nation.
Crucial Disqualifications to Keep in Mind:
- Loss of Filipino Citizenship: If you gave up your Filipino citizenship according to Philippine laws, you can’t vote. It’s important to check your citizenship status before trying to participate.
- Pledging Loyalty to Another Country: People who publicly gave up their Filipino citizenship or pledged loyalty to another country (except dual citizens protected under Republic Act 9225) can’t vote. However, dual citizens can still use their voting rights.
- 3. Criminal Conviction: If you were convicted of a crime with a minimum one-year prison sentence, you can’t vote. But this disqualification can be removed with a full pardon or amnesty. If you fall into this category, you can regain your voting rights five years after finishing your sentence.
- Declared as Mentally Incompetent: Any Filipino living abroad who has been previously declared mentally incapable or insane by a qualified authority in the Philippines or another country, as confirmed by the Philippine Embassy, consulates, or Foreign Service offices, can’t vote. However, this disqualification can be removed if the qualified authority later confirms your sanity or competence.
Understanding these requirements is crucial to make sure you’re eligible for the May 2025 Philippine Senate Election. Your vote has a big impact on shaping your homeland’s future, and every eligible Filipino living abroad plays an important role in this democratic process.
Your active involvement really shapes the nation’s destiny, so make sure your voice has a meaningful impact! Your participation is crucial in deciding the future direction of our nation. Your vote is your voice, and it truly matters in building the Philippines’ future. Your role in this process is indispensable, and together, we can make a difference that truly counts. Make your presence felt in this democratic journey!
Requirements
Getting Your Passport Ready for International Travel: Before you set off on your journey as an overseas Filipino voter, make sure your Philippine passport is good to go for your international adventures. Start by checking when your passport expires to ensure it’s still valid. For added security, go the extra mile by making copies of the important passport pages you’ll need during your travels.
Renewing Your Passport When Needed: If you find out that your passport is about to expire or is no longer valid, don’t worry. Simply visit the nearest foreign service office, and they’ll help you with any passport-related issues or guide you through the renewal process.
For Seafarers: If you’re one of the respected seafarers, it’s crucial to include a copy of your Seaman’s Book or any proof of your seafaring status along with your passport or certification.
For Dual Citizenship Holders: If you have the privilege of dual citizenship, it’s essential to include both the original and a copy of your Dual Citizenship certificate or Order of Approval, in addition to the documents mentioned in steps 1 or 2.
In-Person Visit Required: In most cases, you must visit in person for biometric recording. This step is necessary to ensure the security and accuracy of the overseas voting process.
Completing the Voting Form: Go to the COMELEC website and carefully fill out the Overseas Voting Form 1 (OVF 1). If you’ve registered with biometric data before, check OFOV’s Virtual Frontline Services for detailed application instructions.
Transferring Your Registration: If you want to transfer your registration to a location within the Philippines, submit your application at the local Election Officer’s Office and follow the specific local voter registration procedures.
By following these important steps diligently, you’ll be well-prepared to participate in the democratic process from anywhere in the world.
Your voice is incredibly important, so seize this fantastic opportunity. Your vote has significant influence over the future of the Philippines, and each ballot you cast plays a crucial role in shaping the destiny of your beloved homeland. Your active participation is an absolute necessity for our nation’s progress!
How to Register at the Philippine Embassy in Iraq
Step 1: Gather Your Required Documents
Becoming an overseas voter starts with having the right documents ready. To make sure you’re all set, follow this simple checklist:
- Your Philippine Passport: Keep it within easy reach as your main ID.
- If you don’t have a passport, don’t worry; you have other options:
- A letter from the Philippine Embassy/Consulate explaining your passport situation.
- If you’ve reclaimed Filipino citizenship under Republic Act No. 9225, you’ll need the original or a certified copy of the Approval Order or Identification Certificates.
- For sailors, include a copy of your Sailor’s Book.
Step 2: Fill Out the Overseas Voter Form (OVF1)
You can get the Overseas Voter Form (OVF1) at your local registration center or online. Take your time to fill it out accurately.
Step 3: Submit Your Documents
Visit the registration center in person. Make sure you have your completed OVF1 and all the necessary documents with you. Double-check everything before you submit your application.
Step 4: Registration Period
Remember, you can register for the May 2025 Philippine Senate Election from December 9, 2022, to September 30, 2024. Registering during this time is crucial to ensure you can vote.
Step 5: Document Review
Officials will carefully check your documents and details to confirm your eligibility for overseas voting.
Step 6: Await Confirmation
After a thorough review, you’ll receive confirmation of your status as a registered overseas voter. This means you’re all set to take part in the upcoming election.
By following these steps diligently, you can actively participate in Philippine democracy, even if you’re living in a different country, like Iraq. Your vote holds significant importance and plays a vital role in shaping the nation’s future, no matter where you are.
So, mark your calendars and be a part of the upcoming election! Your voice truly matters in making the Philippines better. Leave your mark on history by voting and contributing to positive change!
Your participation is invaluable, and your vote can genuinely influence the creation of a brighter future for the Philippines. Be sure not to miss the registration period to protect your right to vote and be a part of this crucial process. Your contribution is vital in guiding the nation’s path forward, and your involvement is greatly appreciated. Join us in shaping a better tomorrow for the Philippines!
Video: COMELEC Commissioner Ma. Rowena V. Guanzon’s Message on Overseas Voting
Be sure to watch this informative video featuring a compelling message from Ma. Rowena V. Guanzon, a former COMELEC Commissioner. In the video, she talks to Filipinos living overseas, including those in Iraq, to explain how the overseas voter registration process works at Philippine Embassies and Consulates worldwide. Commissioner Guanzon focuses on the upcoming May 2022 Presidential Elections.
This video is a significant reminder, encouraging Filipinos living abroad to use their right to vote and have a say in their home country’s future. Remember, your vote is very important. Take a moment to watch this video and stay informed throughout the process. Your role in this democratic journey is crucial in shaping your nation’s destiny.
Don’t miss this chance. Make sure your voice is heard and contributes to your homeland’s progress and development by watching this informative video! Your active participation has a big impact on the path ahead for your beloved nation, and your involvement is essential in shaping its future.
Contact Information for the Philippine Embassy in Iraq
Address: Hay Al-Jamia, Mahalat 915 Zukak 22, House 6,, Iraq
Telephone number: +9647828811037
Office hours: Sunday-Thursdays: 9:00AM-5:00PM
Website: https://philembassybaghdad.wordpress.com/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/PHinIraq