Italy

Did you know that Filipinos constitute the fifth-largest migrant community in Italy, following closely behind the Romanian, Albanian, North African, and Ukrainian communities? As of 2021, there were approximately 108,000 documented Filipinos living in Italy, either as temporary workers or permanent residents. This substantial Filipino population in Italy highlights the significance of overseas voter registration for Filipinos in Italy.

With this as our guiding light, let us delve into the essential aspects of this process, aiming to provide clear and accessible information for non-native English speakers to understand and engage with the topic effectively. Read on!

In preparation for the upcoming elections, the Philippine Embassy in Italy had diligently prepared to facilitate the registration of qualified overseas voters.

To ensure accessibility and convenience, the embassy organized a field registration event at the Catholic Institute in Floriana, Malta, located at Triq San Publiju.

This event spanned from the 4th to the 5th of August 2023, with operating hours from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and concluded on the 6th of August 2023, with registration available from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM.

This proactive initiative, known as Field Overseas Voting Registration, exemplified the embassy’s commitment to engaging the Filipino community in Italy, making it easier for them to exercise their right to vote in the upcoming elections.

Philippine (Midterm) Election – May 13, 2025

The approaching 2025 Philippine Senate election stands as a pivotal event in the nation’s history. Set for May 13, with overseas voting spanning from April 13 to May 12, this election occurs once every six years, and the forthcoming one marks its 35th occurrence.

What lends distinctiveness to this electoral process is the selection of 12 senators, mirroring the process of 2019. People worldwide are eagerly anticipating updates on the candidates vying for these influential positions.

The senators elected in this election will serve until June 30, 2031, alongside their 2022 counterparts, who will continue their term until June 30, 2028.

Together, they will compose the Senate for the 20th Congress of the Philippines.

This election’s significance is further amplified by its alignment with other consequential events, magnifying its impact on the nation’s political landscape.

As election day draws near, citizens are filled with anticipation, ready to exercise their right to vote, recognizing its pivotal role in shaping the future leadership of their beloved nation.

This momentous election stands as a turning point in the country’s narrative, carrying both promise and responsibility as it assumes a central role in charting the nation’s trajectory.

It beckons upon every citizen to actively engage in the democratic process, contributing to the blueprint of the nation’s future.

This election signifies a milestone where every Filipino plays an indispensable part, marking a significant juncture in the destiny of their cherished nation.

Qualifications / Eligibility

Citizenship Requirement: To become a member, you must be a Filipino citizen, either by birth or through legal means. This rule is essential to ensure that everyone involved is fully dedicated to influencing the future of our nation.

Residency Condition: Your place of residence holds significance. You should either reside 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 at least 18 years old on Election Day, which falls on May 12, 2025. This ensures that voters are mature enough to make informed choices for the betterment of our nation.

Important Disqualifications to Keep in Mind:

1. Loss of Filipino Citizenship: If you renounced your Filipino citizenship according to Philippine laws, you are ineligible to vote. It is crucial to verify your citizenship status before attempting to participate.
2. Pledging Loyalty to Another Country: Individuals who publicly renounced their Filipino citizenship or pledged allegiance to another country (except dual citizens protected under Republic Act 9225) are disqualified from voting. However, dual citizens can exercise their voting rights.
3. Criminal Conviction: If you were convicted of a crime with a minimum one-year prison sentence, you are not allowed to vote. Nevertheless, this disqualification can be lifted with a full pardon or amnesty. If you fall into this category, you can regain your voting rights five years after completing your sentence.
4. Declared as Mentally Incompetent: Any Filipino residing abroad who has previously been 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 revoked if the qualified authority later confirms your sanity or competence.

Understanding these prerequisites is vital to ensure your eligibility for the May 2025 Philippine Senate Election. Your vote holds immense sway in shaping the future of your homeland, and every eligible Filipino living abroad plays an integral role in this democratic process.

Your active participation profoundly influences the nation’s destiny, so ensure your voice carries meaningful weight! Your involvement is pivotal in determining the future trajectory of our nation. Your vote is your means of expression, and it genuinely counts in shaping the Philippines’ future. Your contribution to this process is indispensable, and collectively, we can effect change that truly matters. Make your presence resonate in this democratic journey!

Requirements

Preparing Your Passport for International Travel: Before embarking on your journey as an overseas Filipino voter, it’s imperative to ensure that your Philippine passport is ready for your global adventures. Begin by checking the expiration date of your passport to ensure its validity. As an added layer of security, go the extra mile by creating copies of the essential passport pages required for your travels.

Renewing Your Passport When Necessary: If you discover that your passport is nearing expiration or is no longer valid, there’s no need to panic. Simply visit the nearest foreign service office, where they will assist you with any passport-related issues and guide you through the renewal process.

For Seafarers: For those esteemed seafarers among us, it’s crucial to include a copy of your Seaman’s Book or any document validating your seafaring status alongside 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 Mandatory: In most instances, an in-person visit is required for biometric recording. This step is vital to guarantee the security and accuracy 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’ve previously registered with biometric data, consult OFOV’s Virtual Frontline Services for comprehensive application instructions.

Transferring Your Registration: If you wish to relocate your registration to a location within the Philippines, submit your application at the local Election Officer’s Office and adhere to the specific local voter registration protocols.

By diligently following these crucial steps, you’ll be well-prepared to engage in the democratic process from any corner of the world. Your voice holds immense significance, so seize this remarkable opportunity.

Your vote wields substantial influence over the future of the Philippines, and each ballot you cast plays an indispensable role in shaping the destiny of your cherished homeland. Your active participation is an absolute imperative for the advancement of our nation!

How to Register at the Philippine Embassy in Italy

Step 1: Gather the Required Documents

Embarking on your journey as an overseas voter begins with ensuring you have the necessary documents at your fingertips. To ensure you’re well-prepared, adhere to this straightforward checklist:

– Your Philippine Passport: Keep it readily accessible as your primary identification.

– If you don’t possess a passport, fret not; alternative options are available:

– A letter from the Philippine Embassy/Consulate clarifying your passport situation.

– If you’ve reclaimed Filipino citizenship under Republic Act No. 9225, ensure you have 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: Complete the Overseas Voter Form (OVF1)

Obtain the Overseas Voter Form (OVF1) either at your local registration center or through online channels. Take your time to meticulously fill it out.

Step 3: Submit Your Documentation

Personally visit the registration center, armed with your duly completed OVF1 and all the requisite documents. Prior to submission, conduct a thorough cross-check to ensure the accuracy of your application.

Step 4: Registration Window

Remember that the registration window for the May 2025 Philippine Senate Election spanned from December 9, 2022, to September 30, 2024. Registering during this designated period is crucial to secure your voting privilege.

Step 5: Document Scrutiny

Officials will meticulously review your documents and particulars to verify your eligibility for overseas voting.

Step 6: Await Confirmation

Following a comprehensive assessment, you will receive confirmation of your status as a registered overseas voter. This signifies your readiness to participate in the forthcoming election.

By diligently adhering to these steps, you can actively engage in Philippine democracy, even if you reside in a foreign land like Italy. Your vote bears significant weight and plays an integral role in shaping the nation’s destiny, regardless of your geographic location.

Therefore, make a note on your calendar and become an integral part of the upcoming election! Your voice holds genuine significance in the pursuit of a better Philippines. Leave your indelible mark on history by exercising your right to vote and contributing to positive transformation.

Your involvement is invaluable, and your ballot can genuinely impact the forging of a brighter future for the Philippines. Ensure you don’t miss the registration window to safeguard your voting right and participate in this pivotal process. Your contribution is pivotal in guiding the nation’s trajectory, and your active engagement is immensely appreciated. Join us in steering the Philippines towards a brighter tomorrow!

Video: COMELEC Commissioner Ma. Rowena V. Guanzon’s Message on Overseas Voting

Make sure not to miss out on this informative video, featuring a compelling message from Ma. Rowena V. Guanzon, a former COMELEC Commissioner. In the video, she addresses Filipinos residing overseas, including those in Italy, explaining the overseas voter registration process at Philippine Embassies and Consulates worldwide. Commissioner Guanzon’s focus is on the recent May 2022 Presidential Elections.

This video serves as a significant reminder, encouraging Filipinos living abroad to exercise their right to vote and actively participate in determining the future of their home country. Remember, your vote holds immense importance. Take a moment to view this video and stay informed throughout the process. Your role in this democratic journey is pivotal, as it contributes to shaping the destiny of your nation.

Don’t let this opportunity slip away. Ensure that your voice is heard and that you play a part in your homeland’s progress and development by engaging with this informative video! Your active participation wields a significant influence on the path ahead for your beloved nation, and your involvement is indispensable in molding its future. Your vote matters, so make it count!

Contact Information for the Philippine Embassy in Italy

Address: Via Aurelia 290 / A 00165 Rome, Italy
Telephone number: (+39) 06 397 46621
Office hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday – 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Website: https://romepe.dfa.gov.ph/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/PHinItaly

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Did you know that Milan, Italy, is home to a significant number of Filipino citizens? As of December 2019, there were approximately 41,290 Filipinos residing in Milan. This vibrant Filipino community contributes to the cultural diversity and economic landscape of Italy. Despite being far from their homeland, Filipinos in Milan have the opportunity to actively participate in Philippine elections through Overseas Voter Registration. This process allows them to exercise their right to vote and have a say in shaping the future of the Philippines.

With this in mind, let’s explore the details of Overseas Voter Registration for Filipinos in Milan and discover how they can make their voices heard, even while residing abroad. Keep on reading below.

The Philippine Consulate-General in Milan, Italy, is actively gearing up for the upcoming election by facilitating the Resident Election Registration Board (RERB) proceedings.

Their recent notification highlights the critical role they play in handling applications for registration, certification, reactivation, correction of entries, name changes, address changes, transfers, recaptures, and various other types of applications filed with the Post.

This meticulous process, set from July 1 to September 30, 2023, reflects the Consulate’s commitment to ensuring that overseas Filipino voters are well-prepared for their active participation in the electoral process.

The notification also opens the door for any interested parties to interpose objections, promoting transparency and accountability in the registration process.

By actively engaging in these administrative procedures, the Consulate-General in Milan is not only fulfilling its duties but also empowering the Filipino community in Italy to exercise their right to vote and contribute to the shaping of the Philippines’ future.

Philippine (Midterm) Election – May 13, 2025

The 2025 Senate election in the Philippines is a defining moment on the horizon, slated for May 13th, with overseas voting open from April 13th to May 12th.

What makes this election truly remarkable is its alignment with a series of transformative events that are reshaping the nation’s political landscape.

The twelve senators to be elected in this crucial event will hold office until June 30th, 2031, significantly influencing the makeup of the 20th Congress of the Philippines. The enthusiasm surrounding this election is palpable, with Filipino citizens both within the Philippines and across the world displaying increasing eagerness to participate. They are well aware of the profound impact their votes will have on the nation’s leadership and its trajectory.

The 2025 Senate election stands as a pivotal moment in Philippine history, underscoring the indispensable role of active citizen engagement in shaping the nation’s future. As the election date approaches, the surging enthusiasm among citizens reinforces the belief that each vote constitutes a meaningful contribution to the nation’s advancement and a demonstration of its democratic principles.

This election is where the collective voice of the populace will decisively mold the destiny of the Philippines for the years ahead, offering citizens the opportunity to exercise their fundamental right to vote and actively engage in the democratic process to chart the nation’s course for the better.

Qualifications / Eligibility

Becoming a registered voter for the May 2025 Philippine Senate Election involves a meticulous consideration of requirements and qualifications, all of which underline an individual’s commitment to shaping the nation’s future through the democratic process. Let’s delve into these critical facets:

Citizenship: To partake in the electoral process, one must be a Filipino citizen, either by birthright or through legal procedures. This foundational requirement underscores a profound connection to the Philippines and a shared responsibility for its future.

Residency Status: Eligible voters should either reside abroad or possess concrete plans to be overseas during the 30-day voting period, spanning from April 13, 2025, to May 12, 2025. This condition underscores the importance of genuine ties to the Philippines and active engagement in its affairs, even from a distance.

Age Requirement: Voters must reach at least 18 years of age on Election Day, May 12, 2025, signifying their readiness to participate in the decision-making process for the nation’s progress.

Disqualifications: Several disqualifications deserve attention to ensure an informed understanding of one’s eligibility for the upcoming election.

• Loss of Filipino Citizenship: Those who have formally renounced their Filipino citizenship, as per Philippine laws, are barred from voting.
• Pledging Loyalty to Another Country: Individuals who have publicly renounced their Filipino citizenship or sworn allegiance to another nation (with the exception of dual citizens under Republic Act 9225) are ineligible to vote. Dual citizens, however, retain their voting rights.
• Criminal Conviction: Persons who have been convicted and incarcerated for a minimum of one year are disqualified from voting. A full pardon or amnesty can reinstate their voting privileges, which can be regained five years after completing the sentence.
• Declared as Mentally Incompetent: Anyone abroad who has previously been declared mentally incapacitated or insane by a qualified authority is ineligible to vote. Nonetheless, this disqualification can be reversed if the qualified authority later certifies their sanity or competence.

Understanding these requirements and disqualifications is paramount in determining one’s eligibility for the upcoming election. Every eligible Filipino living abroad plays an integral role in the democratic process, and their vote significantly influences the nation’s future.

Active participation in the democratic process wields immense power in shaping the nation’s destiny. Voting is not merely a civic duty; it’s a profound means of self-expression that contributes to molding the Philippines’ future. Embrace your role in this democratic journey, fully aware that your vote carries substantial weight, significantly influencing the nation’s future and ensuring that your voice has a momentous impact in charting the Philippines’ path forward.

Your participation is indispensable, serving as a cornerstone of democracy. Your commitment to becoming a registered voter is a tangible step toward a brighter future for the Philippines, and the magnitude of this cannot be overstated. Your vote is your voice, and it possesses the power to shape the destiny of the nation. Never underestimate the importance of your active engagement in this democratic process.

Requirements

1. Passport Preparedness and Replication

In the realm of international travel, your passport’s expiration date is your compass to seamless journeys. A valid passport serves as the key to unlock trouble-free global exploration. It’s a proactive approach to ensure peace of mind; creating duplicate copies of vital passport sections acts as an added layer of security.

1. Passport Renewal Simplified

As your passport’s expiration date looms or if you find yourself in possession of an already expired one, your next destination is your nearest foreign service office. There, seasoned professionals await to adeptly navigate you through the passport renewal process, guaranteeing its currency and validity, prerequisites for untroubled international travel.

III. Special Measures

• For the seafaring souls among us, inclusion of copies of your Seaman’s Book or other pertinent documents affirming your seafaring status is non-negotiable. These documents serve as a bulwark for your seafarer travel privileges.
• Dual citizens, safeguard your unique status with both the original and a duplicate of your Dual Citizenship certificate or Order of Approval, tangible validations of dual citizenship and the associated rights.

1. Biometric Enigma Unveiled

Participation in the overseas voting process may necessitate an in-person rendezvous for biometric data collection. This layer of security ensures the integrity of your overseas vote remains intact.

1. Embark on Your Overseas Voting Journey
2. Commence Your Journey

Initiate your overseas voting experience by navigating to the COMELEC website and diligently filling out the Overseas Voting Form 1 (OVF 1). This form is the keystone of your overseas voting registration.

2. Harness the Power of Virtual Frontline Services

For those who’ve left their biometric data footprint previously, the convenience of OFOV’s Virtual Frontline Services is at your beck and call. These services offer comprehensive application guidance, smoothing the path to your voting destination.

Transfers with Precision (if required)

If you contemplate changing your registration location within the Philippines, dispatch your application at the local Election Officer’s Office. Adhering to the locality’s unique voter registration procedures is pivotal in ensuring a precise transfer.

By vigilantly following this manual, you’ll stand well-prepared to participate in the democratic process from any corner of the globe, Milan, Italy included. Your voice resonates with significant influence in the sculpting of your homeland’s future, so seize this exceptional opportunity. With your passport meticulously handled and overseas voting processes diligently addressed, anticipate a smooth and seamless voting adventure. Your active involvement retains paramount importance, so stay primed to make a profound impact.

How to Register at the Philippine Consulate-General in Milan, Italy

Participating in the upcoming May 2025 Philippine Senate Election as an overseas voter, even if you reside in places like Milan, Italy, involves a series of crucial steps. These steps are vital to ensure your active role in shaping the future of the Philippines.

Step 1: Collecting Required Documents
Commencing your journey as an overseas voter requires the assembly of essential documents, with the Philippine passport serving as your primary form of identification.

However, if you lack a Philippine passport, there are viable alternatives. You can obtain a letter from the Philippine Embassy or Consulate to clarify your passport situation.

Another option involves having the original or a certified copy of the Approval Order or Identification Certificates, particularly if you’ve reclaimed Filipino citizenship under Republic Act No. 9225. For seafarers, including a copy of their Seaman’s Book is advisable.

Step 2: Completion of the Overseas Voter Form (OVF1)
The next phase involves acquiring the Overseas Voter Form (OVF1), readily accessible through your local registration center or online channels. Dedication of the necessary time is essential to ensure the accurate and comprehensive completion of this form.

Step 3: Submission of Your Documents
The subsequent crucial action entails visiting the registration center with your fully completed OVF1 and all the required documents. Prior to submission, a meticulous review is imperative to ensure the application’s accuracy.

Step 4: Registration Period
It’s of paramount importance to be aware of the extended registration period for the May 2025 Philippine Senate Election, spanning from December 9, 2022, to September 30, 2024. Registering within this designated timeframe is essential to secure your voting privilege.

Step 5: Document Assessment
Qualified officials will conduct a thorough evaluation of your documents and details to verify your eligibility for overseas voting. This stringent process is in place to ensure the integrity and accuracy of the entire voting procedure.

Step 6: Awaiting Confirmation
After the comprehensive assessment, you will receive confirmation of your status as a registered overseas voter. This confirmation signifies your eligibility to partake in the election.

By meticulously adhering to these steps, you can actively engage in the democratic processes of the Philippines, irrespective of your geographical location. Your vote holds substantial weight and plays a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s future. It provides you with the means to leave an enduring mark on the annals of history and contribute positively to the advancement of the Philippines.

Therefore, make note of these steps and become an indispensable participant in the forthcoming election! Your voice carries authentic significance in the quest for an improved Philippines. Maintaining awareness and active engagement in the democratic process is of paramount importance, ensuring that your involvement continues to steer the Philippines toward a brighter and more prosperous future.

Video: COMELEC Commissioner Ma. Rowena V. Guanzon’s Message on Overseas Voting

Former COMELEC Commissioner Ma. Rowena V. Guanzon delivers a powerful message to the Filipino diaspora worldwide, emphasizing the complexities of overseas voter registration and the importance of active participation in the electoral process, particularly in preparation for the May 2022 Presidential Elections.

Commissioner Guanzon encourages overseas Filipinos to exercise their voting rights and highlights their pivotal role in shaping the future of the Philippines.

The video emphasizes the significant influence of each overseas Filipino’s vote and promotes actions to ensure the proper tabulation of their votes.

Through active engagement in the electoral process, overseas Filipinos can make meaningful contributions to the advancement and development of their home country.

The video serves as a rallying cry, urging its audience not to miss the opportunity to assume a pivotal role in shaping the destiny of their beloved nation and catalyze positive change.

Contact Information for the Philippine Consulate-General in Milan, Italy

Address: Viale Stelvio 71 angolo Via Bernina 18, Milan, Italy
Telephone number: +39 02 6682 5232
Office hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Website: milanpcg.dfa.gov.ph
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/PHLinMilan

Google Map Location