In the heart of the Middle East, a significant community of Filipinos has found a home away from home. The Philippine Embassy in Israel has estimated that a thriving population of approximately 31,000 Filipinos is legally working and residing within the borders of Israel. This dynamic community has not only brought their vibrant culture and traditions to the region but has also paved the way for an essential aspect of their civic responsibility – overseas voter registration.
With this in mind, let us delve into the crucial topic of Overseas Voter Registration for Filipinos in Israel, shedding light on the process, significance, and power of the Filipino diaspora’s voice in their homeland’s future.
In anticipation of the upcoming election, the Philippine Embassy in Israel has been diligently preparing to facilitate the overseas voter registration process for the Filipino community residing in the region.
Beginning on December 11, 2022, and running from Sunday to Thursday, between 9:00 AM and 2:30 PM, the embassy has opened its doors to enable eligible Filipinos to register.
This initiative is not confined solely to the Embassy in Tel Aviv; Filipinos can also register at other Philippine embassies or consulates and designated registration centers, both overseas and within the Philippines, as designated by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC).
This extensive effort underscores the Embassy’s commitment to ensuring that the voices of Filipinos living abroad are heard in the upcoming elections, regardless of their geographical locations.
Philippine (Midterm) Election – May 13, 2025
The forthcoming Philippine Senate election, set to take place on May 13, 2025 (from April 13, 2025, to May 12, 2025, for overseas voters), carries immense historical importance.
This election recurs every six years, and the impending one signifies the 35th occurrence in this series.
What has garnered widespread attention is the opportunity to fill a dozen senatorial positions, last contested in 2019.
People are eagerly anticipating the emergence of candidates competing for these crucial roles. The senators chosen in this pivotal election will serve until June 30, 2031, working alongside the senators elected in 2022, whose terms extend until June 30, 2028.
Collectively, they will form the Senate for the 20th Congress of the Philippines. Importantly, this election aligns with other significant elections, including those for the House of Representatives and local officials above the barangay level.
All these components underscore the potential of this election to profoundly influence the political landscape of the Philippines.
This momentous event is rapidly approaching, and citizens are diligently preparing to exercise their right to vote for the candidates who will chart the course of their nation’s future.
Qualifications / Eligibility
Citizenship Requirement: To actively engage in the forthcoming May 2025 Philippine Senate Election, possessing Filipino citizenship, whether by birthright or through legitimate procedures, is an absolute necessity. This stipulation holds paramount importance as it ensures that those genuinely concerned about the Philippines’ future have the privilege of participating in the electoral process. This participation not only guarantees that their voices are heard but also assures they wield a meaningful influence.
Residential Qualification: Your current place of residence carries significant weight in determining your eligibility. You must either presently reside abroad or have solid plans to be overseas during the 30-day voting window, which stretches from April 13, 2025, to May 12, 2025.
Age Requirement: It is imperative to confirm that you meet the age criteria. You must be at least 18 years old on May 12, 2025, which marks Election Day. This requirement ensures that the voting populace consists of adults capable of making informed decisions about the country’s future.
Disqualifications to Be Aware Of: It is crucial to verify that you do not fall under any of the disqualifications outlined in Philippine laws concerning voting eligibility. Here are some factors that could render you ineligible:
- Loss of Filipino Citizenship: If you have lost your Filipino citizenship as per Philippine laws, you are not eligible to vote. Prior to attempting to vote, it is essential to ascertain your current citizenship status.
- Pledging Loyalty to Another Country: Voting rights are denied to individuals who have publicly renounced their Filipino citizenship or pledged allegiance to another nation (except those with dual citizenship under Republic Act 9225). However, holding dual citizenship permits you to exercise your voting privileges.
- Criminal Conviction: Those who have been convicted of a crime that could result in a minimum one-year imprisonment sentence are disqualified from voting. Nevertheless, this disqualification can be lifted if you receive a full pardon or amnesty. If you find yourself in this category, you can regain your voting rights five years after completing your sentence.
- Declared as Insane or Incompetent: Any Filipino residing abroad who has previously been declared insane or incompetent by a qualified authority in the Philippines or abroad, as confirmed by the Philippine Embassy, consulates, or Foreign Service offices, is ineligible to vote. However, this disqualification can be overturned if the qualified authority later certifies that you are sane or competent.
By familiarizing yourself with these eligibility criteria, you can ensure that you meet all the prerequisites for participating in the May 2025 Philippine Senate Election. Your vote serves as a powerful means of influencing the future of your homeland, and every eligible Filipino residing abroad plays a pivotal role in this democratic process.
Your involvement holds substantial sway in shaping the destiny of your nation, so make your voice count! Your active involvement in the electoral process is not only a privilege but also a responsibility toward the Philippines’ better future.
Requirements
- Passport Verification: To kickstart the procedure, it’s crucial to confirm the validity of your Philippine passport. This serves as a primary requirement for participating in the voting process. Additionally, take photocopies of the relevant passport pages that will be submitted.
- Passport Acquisition if Needed: In case you discover that your passport is no longer valid, there’s no need to panic. Simply visit the nearest foreign service post, where they will assist you with the certification process. They will either validate your documents for passport issuance or offer guidance if you encounter any obstacles.
- Seafarers’ Specifics: If you work at sea, remember to include a photocopy of your Seaman’s Book or any documentation that confirms your seafaring status, alongside your passport or certification.
- Dual Citizenship Considerations: For those who hold dual citizenship, it’s essential to submit your Dual Citizenship certificate or Order of Approval (both the original and a copy), in addition to the documents mentioned in steps 1 or 2.
- Personal Appearance Requirement: In most cases, a personal visit will be necessary for biometric recording. This step is implemented to ensure the highest level of security and accuracy.
- Completing the Voting Form: Fill out Overseas Voting Form 1 (OVF 1), which is readily available on the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) website. If you’ve previously registered with complete biometric data, explore the Office for Overseas Voting’s (OFOV) Virtual Frontline Services (VFS) for specific applications.
- Registration Transfer: If you intend to shift your registration from your overseas post to a Philippine Municipality, City, or District, simply apply at the local Office of the Election Officer in your preferred voting location. Make sure to adhere to the local voter registration guidelines.
By diligently following these steps, you will be thoroughly prepared to participate in the democratic process, no matter where you are in the world. Your voice holds immense value, and registering as an overseas voter empowers you to contribute to the future of the Philippines.
Don’t miss this opportunity! Remember, every single vote has a significant impact, shaping the destiny of your homeland. Your active participation matters greatly!
How to Register at the Philippine Embassy in Israel
Step 1: Gathering the Required Documents
Embarking on the journey of overseas voter registration demands meticulous preparation, beginning with the collection of essential documents. Here’s an exhaustive list of what you’ll need:
- Your Valid Philippine Passport: Your current Philippine passport is your primary identification document throughout the registration process. Keep it readily accessible at all times.
- Alternatives for Those Without a Passport: If you find yourself without a valid passport, fret not, for there are alternative pathways:
- A certificate issued by the Philippine Embassy/Consulate General elucidating your passport status.
- For those who have reclaimed Filipino Citizenship under Republic Act No. 9225, you’ll require either the original or a certified true copy of the Order of Approval or Identification Certificates.
- Seafarers must remember to enclose a photocopy of their Seafarer’s Book.
Step 2: Completing the Overseas Voter Registration Form (OVF1)
The Overseas Voter Registration Form (OVF1) is the cornerstone of the process, available at your local registration center or online. Dedicate the necessary time to meticulously fill out all mandatory fields on the form.
Step 3: Submission of Your Application
Visit the designated registration center in person with your completed Overseas Voter Registration Form (OVF1) and the necessary documents. Before submission, double-check to ensure that everything is in order.
Step 4: The Registration Period
Mark your calendars with a sense of urgency. For the May 2025 Philippine Senate Election, the registration window extends from December 9, 2022, to September 30, 2024. Within this timeframe lies the crucial opportunity to secure your ability to cast your vote.
Step 5: Document Verification
Upon submitting your application, meticulous scrutiny of your documents and information follows suit, undertaken by authorities to validate your eligibility for overseas voting.
Step 6: Awaiting the Green Light
As your application undergoes processing and verification, you’ll eagerly await the official confirmation of your successful registration as an overseas voter. This confirmation bestows upon you the esteemed privilege of participating in the impending election.
By rigorously adhering to these steps, you assume an active role in the democratic process of the Philippines, even while residing in Israel. Remember, your vote wields the profound power to shape the destiny of your homeland, irrespective of the geographical miles that may separate you. Mark your calendars and become an integral part of the imminent election – each vote you cast carries weight and contributes to molding the nation’s future!
Video: COMELEC Commissioner Ma. Rowena V. Guanzon’s Message on Overseas Voting
Watch this video clip published in 2022, featuring a special message delivered by COMELEC former Commissioner Ma. Rowena V. Guanzon. Her message is specifically aimed at overseas Filipinos, including those who have chosen Israel as their place of residence. In this video presentation, Guanzon emphasizes the importance of the Overseas Voter Registration process, which is currently underway at Philippine Embassies and Consulates worldwide, all in preparation for the most recent Presidential Elections that took place in May 2022.
Contact Information for the Philippine Embassy in Israel
Address: Rehov Bnei Dan 18, Tel Aviv-Yafo, 6226009
Telephone number: (+972)3-601-0500
Office hours: Sundays to Thursdays, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m
Website: https://tel-avivpe.dfa.gov.ph/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/PHinIsrael