If you haven’t registered to vote yet, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) is making it easier. After creating an app to streamline the voter registration process, Comelec has signed a deal with Robinsons Malls and Ayala Malls to open satellite voting centers in malls located in key cities across the country.
“Our aim is to give the public an accessible and efficient registration experience and provide alternative satellite registration sites by opening registration booths in malls,” said Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez in a statement. The final mall registration schedule has yet to be announced.
The satellite voter registration booths will only accept a limited number of applicants per day due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Social distancing and other health and safety protocols will be strictly adhered to at these sites.
As of July 23, there are only 69 days left until the closing of voter registration on Sept. 30. As of writing, there are currently around 60 million registered voters for the 2022 presidential elections, with around 4.3 million new registered voters.
While the official filing of certificates of candidacy for next year’s elections is expected to begin in October, a number of incumbent politicians have already expressed their interest in running for the highest office in the land.
For those who are still in the process of registering to vote, here’s a handy voter’s registration guide delivered by our national heroes.
Update as of Sept. 9: Ayala Malls and SM Supermalls satellite voter’s registration details added.