Did you know that among the bustling global hubs where overseas Filipino workers exercised their right to vote in the 2022 elections, Tokyo, Japan stood out as a significant player? In a remarkable display of civic engagement, around 550,000 overseas Filipinos from various corners of the world cast their votes. This number places Tokyo alongside other prominent international cities, such as Hong Kong, Singapore, and San Francisco, where the Filipino diaspora made its voice heard in the democratic process, which all started from the overseas voter registration process.
Let’s take a look at the essential details of Overseas Voter Registration for Filipinos in Tokyo, Japan, shedding light on the steps and significance of this unique electoral process.
In accordance with the provisions of Republic Act No. 9189, as amended by Republic Act No. 10590, the Overseas Voter Registration process in Tokyo, Japan plays a crucial role in ensuring that all eligible Filipino citizens living abroad have the opportunity to exercise their democratic rights.
Citizens of the Philippines residing in Tokyo, who meet the age requirement of at least eighteen (18) years old by May 12, 2025, and are registered overseas voters, are eligible to participate in the 2025 Philippine National Elections.
The overseas voting period for this significant event is set to commence on April 13, 2025, and will run until May 12, 2025.
To facilitate the participation of qualified Filipino citizens who are not yet registered as overseas voters, the registration process is made accessible.
They can submit their applications for registration at designated posts abroad, designated registration centers outside the post, or at specified registration centers within the Philippines, as outlined in COMELEC Resolution No. 10833.
This inclusive approach ensures that the overseas voting system in Tokyo, Japan is both accessible and accommodating to all eligible Filipino expatriates.
Philippine (Midterm) Election – May 13, 2025
The May 2025 Philippine Senate election is a pivotal moment in the nation’s democratic journey, marking the 35th iteration of the Senate election.
Scheduled for May 13, 2025 (April 13, 2025, to May 12, 2025, for overseas voters), this election holds immense significance as it will determine the fate of the 12 senators originally elected in 2019.
These senators will play a critical role in shaping the country’s legislative direction until June 30, 2031.
Moreover, they will collaborate with the senators elected in 2022, who will serve until June 30, 2028, forming the Senate’s delegation to the 20th Congress of the Philippines.
This election is part of a broader political landscape, running in conjunction with crucial elections for the House of Representatives and local officials beyond the barangay level.
Overseas voter registration for this historic event took place from December 9, 2022, to September 30, 2024, ensuring the active participation of Filipinos worldwide in shaping the destiny of their nation.
Qualifications / Eligibility
- Filipino Citizenship:
- To participate in the May 2025 Philippine Senate Election, you must be a Filipino citizen, either by birth or through naturalization.
- Residency Status:
- You should either currently reside abroad or have plans to be abroad during the 30-day voting period. For the upcoming election, this period is from April 13, 2025, to May 12, 2025.
- Age Requirement:
- You must be at least 18 years old on May 12, 2025, which is the day of the election.
- No Disqualifications:
- You must not be otherwise disqualified by the laws governing voter eligibility in the Philippines.
Also Read: Overseas Voter Registration for Filipinos in Nagoya, Japan
Who Are Disqualified?
Certain conditions may disqualify you from participating 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 disqualification 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.
Your participation will contribute to the democratic process and help shape the future of the Philippines.
Make sure to verify your eligibility and register to vote within the specified time frame to exercise your right to choose your representatives.
Requirements
- Original and Photocopy of Valid Philippine Passport:
- Ensure that your Philippine passport is current and valid.
- Make a photocopy of the relevant 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.
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.
By following these requirements and guidelines, you can ensure that your overseas voter registration is complete and accurate, allowing you to participate in the upcoming elections and make your voice heard in the democratic process.
How to Register Online for Overseas Voting
Step 1: Gather the Necessary Documents
- Ensure you have a valid Philippine passport.
- If you are a dual citizen, 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 accurately fill out the required information.
- Generate the OVF1 form, which will include a QR code for verification.
Step 3: Submit the Application Form
- After encoding all the necessary details and generating 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.
Ensure you follow these steps carefully to successfully register as an overseas voter and exercise your right to vote in Philippine elections.
Also read: Overseas Voter Registration for Filipinos in Osaka, Japan
How to Register at the Philippine Embassy in Tokyo
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Before you begin the registration process, ensure you have the necessary documents:
- Valid Philippine Passport: This is the primary identification document. If you have a valid Philippine passport, it should be presented during registration.
- In the absence of a valid Passport, provide one of the following:
- A certification issued by the Philippine Embassy/Consulate General stating that they have received and reviewed your documents and found them sufficient for passport issuance, or that you hold a valid passport but cannot produce it for a valid reason.
- For applicants who reacquired Filipino Citizenship under Republic Act No. 9225, you’ll need the original or certified true copy of the Order of Approval of your application to retain or reacquire Filipino citizenship issued by the Philippine Embassy/Consulate or your Identification Certificates issued by the Philippine Embassy/Consulate or the Bureau of Immigration.
- Seafarers should provide a photocopy of their Seafarer’s Book.
Step 2: Complete the Overseas Voter Registration Form (OVF1)
- Obtain an Overseas Voter Registration Form (OVF1) from the designated registration center or online. Fill out the form accurately and completely.
Step 3: Schedule an Appointment
- If you are registering at the Philippine Embassy in Tokyo, you may need to schedule an appointment for Overseas Voter registration. This can be done using the provided QR code or by visiting: https://tokyopeconsularappointment.setmore.com/.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
- Personally submit your Overseas Voter Registration Form (OVF1) along with the required documents to the designated registration center. Ensure that all your documents are in order and your form is correctly filled out.
Step 5: Registration Period
- Keep in mind that the registration period for the May 2025 Philippine Senate Election is from December 9, 2022, to September 30, 2024. Make sure to register within this timeframe to be eligible to vote.
Step 6: Verification
- After submitting your application, the authorities will review your documents and information to confirm your eligibility for overseas voting.
Step 7: Await Confirmation
- Once your application is processed and verified, you will receive confirmation of your registration as an overseas voter.
Contact Information
Philippine Embassy in Japan (Tokyo)
Address: 5-15-5 Roppongi Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-8537
Contact number: (03) 5562-1600 If you know the extension number of the person you are calling, at the voice prompt dial 8 + the local number + # + 0
Website: https://tokyo.philembassy.net/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/PHLinJapan
Office Hours: 0900H to 1800H Monday to Friday