The Commission on Elections (Comelec) clarified that the upcoming voter registration scheduled from August 1 to 10 will not accept applications for transfer of registration ahead of the December 1, 2025 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE).
Comelec Chair George Garcia said the registration period is solely intended for first-time voters and individuals whose voter records have been deactivated, allowing them to participate in this year’s polls.
“With such a short time, their applications might not reach the Election Registration Board (ERB) hearings, and even if they applied, their applications might not be approved,” Garcia said, referring to those seeking to transfer their registration.
He explained that ERB hearings are necessary to approve or reject registration applications, and also to remove ineligible voters, such as those who have died or failed to vote in two consecutive elections.
The Comelec chief said that transferring registration would require at least two to three weeks of processing—more time than the allotted 10-day registration window allows.
Garcia noted that if the BSKE is postponed again, the Comelec would then require a longer registration period to accommodate more applicants, including those wishing to transfer.
Originally, the voter registration period was set for July 1 to 11 but was moved to August 1 to 10. Further registration is scheduled for the last week of October and will run until July 2026.
“We projected one million registrations within 10 days, and we remain committed to that goal. Registration will take place across the Philippines,” Garcia said, urging qualified individuals to take the opportunity to register or reactivate their status.
He said Comelec anticipates strong interest from voters, especially those who have yet to participate in previous elections.
