As the Philippine national elections draw near, residents in the country and overseas, including Filipinos in Japan, are putting in a lot of effort to decide who to vote for. Foreign Filipinos in Japan need to learn about the voting process for the upcoming elections to ensure they can participate. Despite being overseas, Filipinos in Japan have a significant impact on the country’s presidential election, as they constitute one of the world’s largest populations of overseas nationals, and their votes will undoubtedly influence election outcomes.
To prepare for the actual polling dates, it is recommended to visit various websites that provide information about the candidates. Taking time off from work for this national event may also be advantageous. The Philippine diplomatic missions in Japan are prepared to offer assistance to registered voters who plan to vote in the national elections. Before heading to the polls, make sure to check your name on the certified list of overseas voters (CLOV) to ensure a smooth and hassle-free voting experience. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to exercise your right to vote and have a say in shaping the future of the Philippines!
Filipinos residing in Japan can greatly benefit from the proactive measures taken by the Philippine Embassy in collaboration with key entities like the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Commission on Elections (COMELEC). By participating in the overseas voting survey, Filipinos in Japan are given a platform to voice their experiences, challenges, and insights about the voting and registration processes abroad. The feedback collected will be invaluable for the respective organizations to refine and enhance the systems in place. As a result, the future voting experience for Filipinos in Japan can be more streamlined, accessible, and efficient. This initiative by the Philippine Embassy underscores its commitment to ensuring that the democratic rights of overseas Filipinos are upheld and facilitated with utmost efficiency.
Certified List of Overseas Voters in Japan
Filipinos living in Japan should familiarize themselves with the overseas voting process to ensure a smooth and hassle-free election experience. The Philippine Embassy is available to guide registered overseas Filipino voters through the election process.
Staff from the Philippine Embassy will provide directions on how to cast your vote in the upcoming elections. Before participating in the Philippine national elections from Japan, make sure to confirm that your name is included in the country’s Certified List of Overseas Voters (CLOV) which you can find here.
If you are a Filipino resident in Japan and require help with the overseas voting process or need to verify your details on the CLOV, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Embassy. The list is arranged alphabetically for easier navigation. Additionally, COMELEC officials may annotate the list with notes or comments. To validate your voter information from the list, you can use the quick shortcut provided in the next section.
Tip: To avoid scrolling through an extensive list of names, simply use the CTRL + F function. This will bring up a search box where you can type in your last name to find your details. Remember, the search function is case-sensitive, so make sure your name is entered correctly, and that there are no extra spaces or characters in the search field.
How to Find Your Name in List of Absentee Voters in Japan
Visit the website where the Philippine Embassy in Japan has displayed the Certified List of OFW Voters (CLOV). The list is sorted alphabetically by last names for easy navigation.
Locate the PDF file that matches the first letter of your last name and click to open it. The list is segmented into various PDFs, each one dedicated to a particular range of last names in alphabetical order.
Thoroughly review the list to find your name. If you discover it, that’s excellent news! You are qualified to vote in the forthcoming elections.
- If your name appears on the list, this confirms that you’ve successfully registered for overseas voting and are eligible to participate in the important decisions of the upcoming COMELEC national elections.
- If your name is not on the list, don’t be discouraged! This simply means you won’t be participating in this election cycle. However, you can prepare for future elections.
How to Vote in Philippine Elections at the Philippine Embassy in Japan
Step 1: Confirm Your Right to Vote
First, ensure your name is listed on the Philippine Embassy in Japan’s Certified List of Overseas Voters. This confirms your voting eligibility.
Step 2: Show Valid ID
Approach the Special Board of Election Inspectors (SBEI) and present a valid form of identification, such as your passport, to verify your identity.
Step 3: Acquire Your Ballot
Upon verification, sign the voter register and collect your voting ballot. Inspect it for any signs of damage or marking.
Step 4: Enter the Voting Zone
Move to the assigned voting space. The SBEI will provide you with a folder and a pen to maintain the confidentiality of your vote.
Step 5: Complete the Ballot
Carefully adhere to the guidelines to fill out your ballot without any extra markings or mistakes.
Step 6: Make Thoughtful Choices
You may select one President, one Vice President, a maximum of twelve Senators, and one Party List. Be cautious not to overvote.
Step 7: Hand in Your Filled Ballot
Go back to the SBEI and insert your completed ballot into the Vote Counting Machine (VCM).
Step 8: Wait for Receipt
Stand by as your voter’s receipt is being printed. Do not pull it out yourself; it serves as evidence of your vote.
Step 9: Verify Your Choices
Examine your voter’s receipt to ensure that all your selections have been correctly documented.
Step 10: Dispose of the Receipt
If everything is accurate, place your voter’s receipt in the designated box for Voter’s Receipts. Remember, taking pictures or making copies is not allowed.
Step 11: Report Any Issues
If you find any discrepancies, inform the SBEI immediately. However, be aware that making false allegations is prohibited.
Step 12: Leave the Voting Location
Well done! You’ve successfully cast your vote at the Philippine Embassy in Japan. Thank you for participating in this vital democratic activity.
Contact Information of the Philippine Embassy in Japan
Address: 5-15-5 Roppongi Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-8537
Telephone number: (03) 5562-1600
Office hours: 0900H to 1800H Monday to Friday
Website: https://tokyo.philembassy.net/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/PHLinJapan/