Did you know that there is a significant Filipino community in Lebanon? According to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), as of 2020, there are approximately 31,916 Filipinos living in Lebanon. It’s interesting to note that 75% of them reside in Greater Beirut, as shared by Philippine Foreign Assistant Secretary Ed Meñez. This vibrant community plays an important role in various sectors and contributes to the cultural diversity of Lebanon. As responsible citizens, it is crucial for Filipinos in Lebanon to exercise their right to vote and have a say in shaping the future of their home country – through overseas voter registration.
With this in perspective, let’s explore the Overseas Voter Registration process for Filipinos in Lebanon and discover how they can actively participate in Philippine elections, even while being thousands of miles away. Let’s get started!
The Philippine Embassy in Lebanon is diligently preparing for the upcoming election through the Resident Election Registration Board (RERB) process.
On Monday, 16 October 2023, at 2:00 PM, the RERB will convene at the Embassy’s Conference Room to review applications for registration, certification, reactivation, correction of entries, change of name or address, transfer, recapture, and other types of applications submitted from 1 July 2023 to 30 September 2023.
If you have any objections to the list of applicants, you may file your opposition in writing addressed to the RERB of the Philippine Embassy in Lebanon.
The address for submission is Villa Fayad, Road 1805, Baabda, Mount Lebanon. Alternatively, you can file your opposition via email at beirut.pe@dfa.gov.ph.
The deadline for filing oppositions is Monday, 9 October 2023. The List of Applicants subject to the RERB Hearing on 16 October 2023 is included in this Notice.
Your active participation in this process ensures a fair and transparent election for all Filipinos in Lebanon.
Philippine (Midterm) Election – May 13, 2025
The upcoming Philippine Senate election in 2025 carries great significance for the nation. It is scheduled for May 13, with overseas voting spanning from April 13 to May 12. This event recurs every six years, and the 35th edition is just around the corner.
What makes this election stand out is the selection of 12 senators, following the same process as observed in 2019. People around the world are eagerly awaiting updates about the candidates competing for these influential positions.
The senators elected in this critical election will serve until June 30, 2031. Alongside them, the senators elected in 2022 will continue their term until June 30, 2028. Together, they will make up the Senate for the 20th Congress of the Philippines.
This election takes on even more significance as it aligns with other pivotal events, amplifying its impact on the nation’s political landscape.
As the election day draws near, citizens are filled with anticipation, ready to exercise their right to vote. They are fully aware of the crucial role it plays in shaping the future leadership of their beloved nation.
This election represents a pivotal moment in the country’s story. It carries both promise and responsibility as it assumes a central role in determining the nation’s path. It calls upon every citizen to actively participate in the democratic process and contribute to the blueprint of the nation’s future.
In essence, this election marks a significant milestone where each Filipino plays an essential role, signifying a momentous turning point in the destiny of their cherished nation. It is a moment of great importance that demands the active involvement of all citizens.
Qualifications / Eligibility
Citizenship Requirement: To qualify for membership, you must possess Filipino citizenship, which can be obtained either through birthright or legal procedures. This fundamental rule ensures that everyone involved is fully dedicated to shaping the destiny of our beloved nation.
Residency Condition: Your place of residence holds significant importance. You should either be residing in another country or have solid plans to be abroad during the 30-day voting period, which is scheduled from April 13, 2025, to May 12, 2025.
Age Criteria: Meeting these conditions also means meeting the age requirement. You must be a minimum of 18 years old on Election Day, which falls on May 12, 2025. This requirement ensures that voters possess the maturity needed to make well-informed choices for the progress of our nation.
Key Disqualifications to Keep in Mind:
- Loss of Filipino Citizenship: If you have formally renounced your Filipino citizenship following Philippine laws, you are not eligible to vote. It’s crucial to verify your citizenship status before attempting to participate.
- Pledging Loyalty to Another Country: Individuals who have publicly renounced their Filipino citizenship or sworn allegiance to another nation (except dual citizens protected under Republic Act 9225) cannot take part in the election. However, dual citizens have the right to exercise their voting privileges.
- Criminal Conviction: If you have a criminal conviction that carries a minimum one-year prison sentence, you are not allowed to vote. However, this disqualification can be lifted through a full pardon or amnesty. If you fall into this category, you can regain your voting rights five years after completing your sentence.
- Declared as Mentally Incompetent: Any Filipino residing 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, cannot vote. However, this disqualification can be reversed if the qualified authority later confirms your sanity or competence.
Understanding these prerequisites is crucial to ensuring your eligibility for the May 2025 Philippine Senate Election. Your vote holds substantial weight in shaping the future of your homeland, and every eligible Filipino living abroad plays a vital role in this democratic process.
Your active participation significantly influences the nation’s destiny, so make sure your voice carries meaningful weight! Your involvement is pivotal in determining the future course of our nation. Your vote serves as your means of expression, and it genuinely matters in shaping the Philippines’ future. Your contribution to this process is indispensable in bringing about meaningful change. Let your presence resonate in this democratic journey with a resounding impact!
Requirements
Preparing Your Passport for International Travel: Before embarking on your journey as an overseas Filipino voter, it is imperative to ensure that your Philippine passport is ready for your global adventures. Begin by verifying the expiration date of your passport to ensure its validity. To bolster security, take the additional step of creating duplicates of the essential passport pages you’ll require for your travels.
Renewing Your Passport When Needed: If you observe that your passport is nearing its expiration date or has already expired, there’s no need to fret. Simply pay a visit to the nearest foreign service office, where they will provide assistance with any passport-related concerns and guide you through the renewal process.
For Seafarers: Our esteemed seafaring community must include a copy of their Seaman’s Book or any documentation confirming their seafaring status alongside their passport or certification.
For Dual Citizenship Holders: If you are fortunate enough to possess dual citizenship, it is vital 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 is Mandatory: In most instances, you will be required to make an in-person visit for biometric recording. This step is pivotal to ensure the security and precision of the overseas voting process.
Completing the Voting Form: Navigate to the COMELEC website and meticulously fill out the Overseas Voting Form 1 (OVF 1). If you have previously registered with biometric data, refer to OFOV’s Virtual Frontline Services for comprehensive application instructions.
Transferring Your Registration: Should you desire to relocate your registration to a different location within the Philippines, submit your application at the local Election Officer’s Office and adhere to the specific local voter registration procedures.
By diligently adhering to these essential steps, you will be well-prepared to partake in the democratic process from any corner of the world. Your voice holds significant importance, so seize this incredible opportunity. Your vote wields a substantial influence on the future of the Philippines, and each ballot you cast plays an indispensable role in shaping the destiny of your beloved homeland. Your active participation is absolutely necessary for the advancement of the nation!
How to Register at the Philippine Embassy in Lebanon
Step 1: Gathering the Necessary Documents for Voting Abroad
Starting your journey as an overseas voter involves making sure you have all the essential documents readily accessible. To assist you in getting ready effectively, adhere to this straightforward checklist:
- Your Philippine Passport: Keep it within easy reach as your primary form of identification.
- If you currently do not have a passport, there is no need to worry; alternative options are available:
- A letter from the Philippine Embassy/Consulate explaining your passport situation.
- If you have reclaimed Filipino citizenship under Republic Act No. 9225, ensure you possess either the original or a certified copy of the Approval Order or Identification Certificates.
- For seafarers, include a copy of your Sailor’s Book.
Step 2: Completing the Overseas Voter Form (OVF1)
Secure the Overseas Voter Form (OVF1) from your local registration center or through online channels. Take your time to diligently fill it out.
Step 3: Submitting Your Documents
Visit the registration center in person, armed with your fully completed OVF1 and all the essential documents. Before submission, conduct a meticulous review to ensure the accuracy of your application.
Step 4: Registration Period
Remember that the registration period for the May 2025 Philippine Senate Election extended from December 9, 2022, to September 30, 2024. Registering during this designated period is crucial to safeguard your voting privilege.
Step 5: Document Evaluation
Officials will thoroughly examine your documents and details to confirm your eligibility for overseas voting.
Step 6: Awaiting Confirmation
Following a comprehensive assessment, you will receive confirmation of your status as a registered overseas voter. This confirms your readiness to participate in the upcoming election.
By diligently following these steps, you can actively participate in Philippine democracy, even if you reside in a foreign country like Lebanon. Your vote holds significant importance and plays a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s future, regardless of your geographic location.
So, mark your calendar and become an integral part of the upcoming election! Your voice carries genuine weight in the pursuit of a better Philippines. Leave a lasting impact on history by exercising your right to vote and contributing to positive change.
Your involvement is invaluable, and your ballot can truly influence the creation of a brighter future for the Philippines. Ensure you don’t miss the registration window to safeguard your voting rights and actively participate in this crucial process. Your contribution is essential in guiding the nation’s path, and your active engagement is highly appreciated. Your role in this democratic endeavor is truly commendable! Remember that your involvement matters greatly.
Contact Information for the Philippine Embassy in Lebanon
Address: RGVM+4QF, Hadath, Lebanon
Telephone: +9615953519
Office hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Website: https://beirutpe.dfa.gov.ph/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/PHinLebanon
Google Map Location