Spain

In the vibrant heart of Catalonia, Barcelona stands as a fusion of art, culture, and innovation. This Spanish city is also home to a significant Filipino community, with an estimated 25,000 overseas Filipino workers enriching the region. Though thousands of miles separate them from their homeland, these Filipinos possess a potent tool to influence the Philippines’ future—overseas voter registration. Situated in a city renowned for its passionate activism and historical movements, Filipinos in Barcelona, Spain have the unique privilege of casting votes that could reverberate through the archipelago.

By participating in this democratic exercise, they not only uphold their civic duties but also seize an unparalleled opportunity to impact their home country’s political landscape. Learn more below.

The Philippine Consulate-General in Barcelona, Spain is actively preparing for the ongoing overseas voter registration by organizing a specialized registration mission.

Scheduled to take place at the Grupo Tahanan Office on September 2, 2023, the Consulate-General aims to make the registration process as accessible as possible for Filipinos residing in the area.

By hosting this event, the Consulate seeks to encourage more Filipinos to register and participate in the electoral process, thereby empowering them to have a say in their homeland’s future.

This initiative is a part of the Consulate’s continued efforts to facilitate civic participation among overseas Filipinos, ensuring they remain connected to and influential in the Philippines.

With the advisory also including an informative infographic, the Consulate is taking comprehensive steps to make sure that all relevant information is easily available to the public.

Philippine (Midterm) Election – May 13, 2025

The Philippine Senate election set for May 13, 2025, is a huge deal for the country. Why? Because the people who get elected will be part of the 20th Congress and will serve until June 30, 2031. These senators will make important laws that affect everyone in the Philippines.

This election is not just for people living in the Philippines. It’s crucial for Filipinos around the world. By voting, you can make a big difference in what happens to our country. This isn’t just another election—it’s a key moment for all of us to get involved and shape our nation’s future.

When you vote, you’re not just going through the motions. Your vote can bring about real change. Each vote is like a building block for a better Philippines. And it’s not just about political sides; this election is a chance for all Filipinos to come together for a common goal.

For Filipinos living abroad, you have from April 13th to May 12th to vote. If you don’t vote, you’re missing a big opportunity to be part of a significant event in your country’s history.

In summary, your vote is powerful. It’s more than a duty—it’s a way to be part of shaping the country’s future. This election can be a turning point for the Philippines, and every Filipino should take part, no matter where they are in the world.

Qualifications / Eligibility

Being a Filipino citizen means more than just a legal label; it’s a lifelong bond to a country built on the shared efforts of its people, no matter where they are in the world. When you vote, you’re doing much more than checking a box—you’re actively helping shape the future of the Philippines.

Who Can Vote? Residency and Age Rules

• Residency: If you’re going to be living abroad between April 13 and May 12, 2025, don’t worry—you can still vote! This shows that being far away doesn’t lessen your connection to the Philippines. In fact, it gives you a special way to stay involved in what’s happening back home.
• Age: You can vote if you’re at least 18 years old by May 12, 2025. This isn’t just a rule; it marks your step into a bigger role in society. At 18, you can have a real say in the nation’s decisions.

Who Can’t Vote? Important Exceptions

Some situations can stop you from voting, such as:

• Giving Up Citizenship: If you decide you’re not Filipino anymore, you can’t vote.
• Loyalty to Another Country: If you pledge to be loyal to another country, you can’t vote in the Philippines unless you’re also a citizen there, based on Republic Act 9225.
• Legal Issues: If you’re in jail for more than a year, you lose your voting rights unless you’re pardoned. You can get these rights back five years after you’ve served your time.
• Mental Health: If a court says you can’t make decisions because of mental health reasons, you can’t vote. But if this changes, you can vote again.

Understanding these rules is important if you want to vote in the 2025 elections. But it’s also crucial to know just how much your vote counts. It’s not just a small thing; it’s a building block in a strong democracy. Your vote can help decide not just who wins an election, but also the direction the Philippines takes in the future.

When you vote, you’re not just being a good citizen—you’re becoming an important part of our country’s growth. Your vote is like a seed that helps the tree of democracy grow. It’s a way to make your voice heard and to have a real effect on the future of the Philippines.

So, when it comes to voting, it’s not just recommended, it’s essential. Your vote is not just a piece of paper—it’s proof of your ongoing connection to the Philippines and a step toward its better future.

Requirements

Having a passport isn’t just about proving who you are; it’s a key to the world. It’s what you need for traveling, working abroad, and even voting in overseas elections. So, keeping track of when it expires isn’t just a good idea—it’s a must-do.

How can you stay on top of it? Simple. Mark the expiration date in your calendar and set reminders on your phone. This way, you’ll avoid the stress of last-minute renewals and keep your international plans on track.

Digital Backup

Sure, your actual passport is what you’ll use most. But having a digital copy is a smart backup plan. Scan the important pages and save them to a secure online storage service. This could be a real help if you lose your passport or it gets stolen.

Is Your Passport About to Expire? Act Now!

If the expiration date is coming up, don’t wait. Contact the nearest government office that deals with passports. They can guide you through the sometimes confusing steps to get it renewed. Acting fast means you won’t miss out on any opportunities to travel or work abroad.

Maritime Workers

For those who work at sea, like seafarers or cruise ship workers, keeping your important papers safe is extra important. Always have several copies of key documents like your Seaman’s Book, just in case.

Dual Citizenship

If you’re lucky enough to be a citizen of two countries, you need to be twice as careful. Make sure to keep both the original and copies of your Dual Citizenship Certificate or Approval Order in a secure place.

Your Vote Counts, Even When You’re Overseas

If you’re an overseas voter, you’ll probably need to give your fingerprints or other biometric info. Doing this in person makes your vote more secure and credible.

Overseas Voting

• Step 1: Start by visiting the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) website. Here, you’ll fill out a form called the Overseas Voting Form 1 (OVF 1). Be accurate—this is how they check if you’re allowed to vote from abroad.
• Step 2: Already done your biometrics? Great! The Office for Overseas Voting offers a way to register online through Virtual Frontline Services. It makes the process easier and quicker.

Want to Change Your Voting Address in the Philippines?

If you want to switch your local voting location back home, start at your local Election Officer’s Office. Follow their steps carefully to update your info without a hitch.

By following these tips and guidelines, you’re doing more than just getting ready to travel or work. You’re also setting yourself up to take part in global democracy through things like overseas voting. It’s a full-circle way to make the most of your international life.

How to Register at the Philippine Consulate-General in Barcelona, Spain

Voting is more than just a right; it’s a powerful way to have your say about what happens in your home country. If you’re a Filipino living in Barcelona, Spain, here’s how you can register to vote in the upcoming Philippine Senate Election set for May 2025.

Step 1: Gather Your Documents

First things first: make sure you have all the papers you need. Your Philippine passport is the main ID you’ll use. If you don’t have one, you can sometimes use a letter from the Philippine Embassy or Consulate. If you have dual citizenship, bring your Approval Orders or Identification Certificates. If you’re a seafarer, your Seaman’s Book will also be needed.

Step 2: Fill Out the OVF1 Form

Next, get your hands on the Overseas Voter Form, or OVF1. You can find this form online or at places where you can register. Be extra careful when you fill it out so that all the info is correct. This will help you avoid problems later on.

Step 3: Turn in Your Form and IDs

After you fill out the OVF1 form, you need to give it to the right office along with your IDs. Double-check everything before you turn it in. This will help make sure everything goes smoothly later on.

Step 4: Mark Your Calendar

The time frame to register for the May 2025 election is from December 9, 2022, to September 30, 2024. So, mark these important dates to make sure you can vote.

Step 5: Wait for Verification

Once you’ve submitted everything, your application will be checked carefully. This step makes sure everything is fair and square for everyone who wants to vote.

Step 6: Get Your Official Go-Ahead

After all the checks are done, you’ll get official papers that say you can vote in the upcoming election.

Remember, your vote can have a big impact. By taking these steps, you’re making sure your voice is heard, even if you’re far away from home.

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

Former COMELEC Commissioner Ma. Rowena V. Guanzon issued an urgent call about the importance of overseas voting. With the Philippine Presidential Elections in May 2022 approaching fast, her message struck a chord, especially among Filipinos in Barcelona, Spain. She urged them to not just vote, but to understand the weight of their vote.

Guanzon’s message wasn’t just a prompt to act. Through a compelling video, she educated Filipinos abroad about the ripple effect their votes could have. These votes can influence laws and governance in the Philippines. Guanzon emphasized the necessity for accurate vote counting to ensure that each voice is genuinely heard.

If you’re a Filipino residing overseas, your role extends beyond just casting a vote. You become a vital part of shaping your country’s destiny. Your vote can influence policies and even the very direction the Philippines takes.

Your vote has power, so make it count. It’s a unique opportunity to contribute to your homeland’s progress and betterment, even when you’re thousands of miles away. Don’t miss the chance; make sure to register and let your voice echo back home.

Contact Information for the Philippine Consulate-General in Barcelona, Spain

Address: Rambla de Catalunya, 33, Planta Principal 08007 Barcelona, Spain
Telephone number: (+34) 938 288 312
Office hours: 0830H – 1630H (Monday-Friday) Except on Philippine and Spanish Holidays
Website: https://barcelonapcg.dfa.gov.ph
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/PHinBarcelona

Google Map Location

 

As the Philippines prepares for the upcoming elections, Filipinos residing in Spain can now check their eligibility to vote. Head to the website of the Philippine Foreign Mission to find the certified list of OFW voters.

The Philippine Embassy in Spain will make the list of overseas Filipino voters in the country public and accessible through their website or by calling the foreign mission post. By participating in the upcoming COMELEC national elections, Filipinos in Spain can have a say in shaping the future of the Philippines. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to exercise your right to vote!

The proactive steps taken by the Philippine Embassy in Spain offer valuable benefits to Filipinos residing in the country, particularly in the realm of civic participation.

The Embassy’s outreach efforts in Málaga and its scheduled visits to Tahanan demonstrate a strong commitment to facilitating overseas voter registration, thus empowering the Filipino community to participate in Philippine elections.

The streamlined registration process—requiring just a filled-out form and a valid Philippine passport—eliminates cumbersome hurdles, making it easier for overseas Filipinos to exercise their democratic rights.

Additionally, by offering multiple dates for registration and choosing accessible locations like Tahanan in the Parish of Nuestra Señora del Espino in Plaza Castilla, the Embassy is making voter registration more convenient.

The absence of a mandatory appointment further simplifies the process.

Overall, these measures significantly enhance civic engagement among Filipinos in Spain, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to the political discourse and decision-making in their home country.

Certified List of Overseas Filipino Voters in Spain

Filipinos living in Spain 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 Spain, make sure to confirm that your name is included in the country’s Certified List of Overseas Voters (CLOV).

For the most current guidance and assistance concerning national elections and overseas voting in your host country, the Philippine Embassy remains your best resource.

As of the writing of this article, the Philippine Embassy in this region has NOT yet published the updated CLOV for the forthcoming 2025 elections. Keep an eye out for additional updates, whether from the Philippine Embassy or this blog, as we will disseminate all relevant information once it becomes public.

If you are a Filipino resident in Spain 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 Spain

1. Visit the website where the Philippine Embassy in Spain has displayed the Certified List of OFW Voters (CLOV). The list is sorted alphabetically by last names for easy navigation.
2. 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.
3. 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 Spain

Step 1: Confirm Your Right to Vote 

First, ensure your name is listed on the Philippine Embassy in Spain’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 Spain. Thank you for participating in this vital democratic activity.

How to Vote in Philippine Elections at the Philippine Embassy in Spain

Address: C/ del Eresma, 2, 28002 Madrid, Spain
Telephone: +34 917 82 38 30
Office Hours: Weekdays, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Website: https://www.philembassymadrid.com/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/PHinSpain/

Google Map Location