Malacañang on Monday called on overseas Filipino voters to participate meaningfully in the ongoing overseas voting period, urging them to vote based on conscience and principle, not on influence or bribery.
“This is your right — a way for you to make your voice heard,” Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary Claire Castro said in a briefing. “Our message from the Palace: Fulfill your duty as a Filipino. Vote wisely, vote with your heart.”
Castro reminded voters to choose leaders who are reliable, patriotic, and will not compromise the country for personal gain.
“Do not vote because of whispers or because you were paid. Choose leaders who will not sell the country in any form, leaders who are truly makabayan,” she added.
The overseas voting period for the 2025 midterm elections officially opened this month for Filipinos living and working abroad.
For the first time, internet voting is now available for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in select locations, a move hailed as a major innovation in government-led electoral reform.
Castro welcomed the shift to digital voting, saying it represents progress in making the electoral process faster and more accessible.
“Hopefully, this new method will improve the voting experience and encourage higher participation among our countrymen overseas,” she said.
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) earlier said internet voting aims to boost voter turnout and eliminate common barriers for OFWs who often face logistical issues when voting by mail or at consulates.
The overseas voting period runs until May 12. Filipinos abroad can vote for 12 senators and one party-list group.