Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Explores the Legality of Online Voting
Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Chairman George Erwin Garcia announced on Tuesday that the legality of implementing online voting in the upcoming midterm polls will be a topic of discussion in the agency’s regular en banc session. This move comes in the wake of Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel 3rd’s statement emphasizing the need for a law to facilitate the implementation of the P465.8 million online voting and counting system (OVCS) in 2025.
Garcia expressed the COMELEC’s willingness to consider Pimentel’s suggestion during their en banc session. He underscored the significance of the minority floor leader’s input, emphasizing that it will not be overlooked. Additionally, Garcia clarified that despite the absence of specific supporting legislation, the bidding for the OVCS project has already been conducted. This is due to the COMELEC’s authorization to explore OVCS technologies.
Legal Basis and Policy Direction
Notably, the COMELEC en banc had previously sanctioned the use of the internet as an alternative mode of voting for overseas Filipino workers. Garcia highlighted this decision, stating, “We approved the policy direction and therefore we are to prepare the roadmap for electronic voting for overseas Filipinos.” He further cited the authority of the COMELEC to explore and execute alternative modes of voting, drawing from Section 16.11 of Republic Act 9189, as well as Sections 23 and 28 of Republic Act 10580.
Challenges and Opportunities in Overseas Voting
Garcia also addressed the challenges faced in overseas voting, particularly the low turnout despite substantial financial allocations. He questioned the efficacy of allocating P411 million for overseas voting, considering the meager 39 percent turnout. This led to the contemplation of alternative voting methods, as evidenced by the notable increase in the 2022 overseas voting turnout, which marked the highest participation since the implementation of overseas voting.
Currently, overseas voters can cast their votes either by mail or in person at a Philippine embassy or authorized foreign post. The 2022 elections saw approximately 1.7 million registered migrant voters spread across 92 Philippine posts globally. Overseas absentee voting commences 30 days before the regular elections and concurrently concludes with local voting.
Garcia also highlighted the safety of overseas internet voting, emphasizing that it requires only minimal data, akin to that of text messages. This assurance aims to address concerns regarding the security and feasibility of online voting for overseas Filipinos.
By considering the legal, logistical, and technological aspects, the COMELEC is poised to navigate the complexities of online voting, ensuring inclusivity and efficiency in the electoral process.
Improving Voter Turnout and Accessibility
Garcia acknowledged the need to address the low voter turnout among overseas Filipino workers, stating that the recent 39% turnout was not a satisfactory “value for money.” He questioned the reasons behind the lack of participation, suggesting that offering another mode of voting, such as online voting, could potentially increase engagement.
The current system allows overseas voters to cast their ballots either by mail or in person at Philippine embassies or authorized foreign posts. Garcia noted that the overseas absentee voting period starts 30 days before the regular elections but simultaneously closes with local voting.
Regarding the safety concerns surrounding online voting, Garcia assured that it would be secure, as it would require only a small data footprint, similar to text messaging. This approach, he believes, could help address the challenges faced by overseas Filipino voters and potentially boost their participation in the electoral process.
Enhancing Electoral Transparency and Integrity
Beyond the discussion of online voting, the COMELEC has also been focused on improving the overall transparency and integrity of the electoral system in the Philippines. One key initiative is the implementation of Voter Verified Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) technology, which aims to provide a physical record of each voter’s ballot for verification purposes.
The VVPAT system is designed to address concerns raised by various stakeholders, including political parties, civil society organizations, and the general public, regarding the reliability and trustworthiness of the electronic voting machines used in previous elections. By providing a tangible paper record, the VVPAT system aims to enhance the transparency of the voting process and build greater confidence in the electoral outcomes.
Additionally, the COMELEC has been actively engaging with local and international election observers to ensure that the electoral process is monitored and scrutinized by independent and impartial entities. This collaboration helps to promote transparency, identify potential areas of improvement, and address any irregularities that may arise during the elections.
Strengthening Electoral Safeguards
Alongside the introduction of new technologies and increased transparency measures, the COMELEC has also been working to strengthen the overall safeguards of the electoral system. This includes enhancing voter registration and identification processes, implementing robust cybersecurity measures to protect against electoral interference, and reinforcing the integrity of the vote-counting and tallying procedures.
One notable initiative is the implementation of biometric voter registration, which requires voters to provide fingerprints, facial scans, and other identifying information. This system aims to ensure the authenticity of each voter’s identity and prevent potential cases of voter impersonation or fraud. Additionally, the COMELEC has been collaborating with relevant government agencies and cybersecurity experts to bolster the security of the electronic systems used in the electoral process, safeguarding against external threats and unauthorized access.
The COMELEC has also been working to streamline and standardize the vote-counting and tallying procedures across the country. This includes the deployment of uniform electronic voting machines, the implementation of robust audit trails, and the strengthening of the chain of custody protocols for electoral materials. These measures are intended to enhance the overall integrity of the vote-counting process and instill greater public confidence in the electoral outcomes.
Fostering Inclusive and Responsive Governance
Beyond the technical aspects of electoral administration, the COMELEC has also been actively engaged in promoting inclusive and responsive governance in the Philippines. This includes initiatives to empower and engage with marginalized communities, ensure the participation of underrepresented groups, and foster greater public trust in the electoral process.
One such initiative is the COMELEC’s ongoing efforts to improve the accessibility of the electoral process for persons with disabilities and the elderly. This includes the provision of assistive technologies, the implementation of accessible polling stations, and the training of election officials to better accommodate the needs of these vulnerable groups.
Additionally, the COMELEC has been collaborating with civil society organizations and community-based groups to reach out to and engage with hard-to-reach populations, such as indigenous communities and informal settlers. By fostering these partnerships, the COMELEC aims to ensure that all citizens, regardless of their socioeconomic status or geographical location, have a voice in the democratic process.
Furthermore, the COMELEC has been working to enhance the transparency and responsiveness of its operations, including the timely dissemination of election-related information, the establishment of public feedback mechanisms, and the swift resolution of electoral disputes and complaints. These efforts are intended to build trust in the electoral system and empower citizens to actively participate in shaping the future of their country.
Embracing Innovation and Adapting to a Changing Landscape
As the Philippines’ electoral landscape continues to evolve, the COMELEC has been committed to embracing innovative approaches and adapting to emerging challenges. This includes the exploration of new voting technologies, the incorporation of data analytics and digital tools to enhance electoral management, and the fostering of collaborative partnerships with diverse stakeholders.
In addition to the ongoing discussions around online voting, the COMELEC has also been exploring the potential of blockchain technology and other distributed ledger systems to enhance the transparency and verifiability of the electoral process. These innovative solutions hold the promise of improving the security, efficiency, and trust in the electoral system, while also addressing the unique challenges faced by the country’s geographically dispersed population.
Furthermore, the COMELEC has been actively leveraging data analytics and digital platforms to improve voter education, campaign finance monitoring, and the overall management of electoral operations. By harnessing the power of data and technology, the COMELEC aims to make the electoral process more accessible, accountable, and responsive to the needs of the Filipino people.
To ensure the successful implementation of these innovative initiatives, the COMELEC has been fostering collaborative partnerships with a diverse range of stakeholders, including technology experts, civil society organizations, international election observation missions, and regional electoral management bodies. These partnerships facilitate the exchange of best practices, the identification of emerging trends, and the co-creation of solutions that are tailored to the unique context of the Philippines.
Conclusion: Towards a More Robust and Inclusive Electoral System
The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) of the Philippines is at the forefront of a multifaceted effort to enhance the integrity, accessibility, and responsiveness of the country’s electoral system. From exploring the legality of online voting to strengthening electoral safeguards, the COMELEC is committed to embracing innovation, fostering transparency, and empowering citizens to participate in the democratic process.
As the Philippines prepares for its upcoming midterm elections and looks towards the future, the COMELEC’s initiatives to improve voter turnout, enhance electoral integrity, and promote inclusive governance are critical. By continuously adapting to the changing landscape and collaborating with a diverse range of stakeholders, the COMELEC aims to build a more robust and trustworthy electoral system that serves the best interests of the Filipino people.
Through these comprehensive efforts, the COMELEC is paving the way for a future where the electoral process is not only more secure and efficient but also truly representative of the aspirations and voices of all Filipinos, both at home and abroad. As the country navigates the challenges and opportunities of the digital age, the COMELEC’s commitment to innovation and inclusive governance will be instrumental in shaping the Philippines’ democratic trajectory.
Source: The Manila Times
