COMELEC spokesperson John Rex Laudiangco (right) with NAMFREL president. Photos courtesy of Commission on Filipinos Overseas
THE Commission on Elections (COMELEC) reminded the public that overseas voting for the 2025 midterm elections is open until 7 p.m. Philippine Standard Time (PST) on May 12, 2025.
“The Philippines is a pioneer in overseas voting,” COMELEC Spokesperson Atty. John Rex Laudiangco stated during the latest episode of CFO Migration Talks, held on April 15, 2025 at the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) office.
“Casting our vote is both a right and an obligation–that is why we continue to find ways to make the process more accessible for Filipinos abroad,” Laudiangco added.
The online event titled “e-Boto Mo, Kabayan! Makialam at Makilahok sa Makabagong Halalan,” put a spotlight on one of the most pressing civic issues for Filipinos abroad – accessible, secure, and inclusive overseas voting in the digital era.
Atty. Laudiangco provided an in-depth walkthrough of the overseas voting process, including the enhanced internet voting system designed to make participation more convenient and secure for Filipinos living abroad.
Laudiangco also addressed questions about cybersecurity, data privacy, and contingency measures in the event of technical or connectivity issues, assuring participants that robust safeguards have been put in place.
CFO Chairperson Dante “Klink” Ang II remains committed to championing inclusive civic engagement for the Filipino diaspora, particularly in providing accessible platforms for dialogue and education, and the integration of digital technologies to connect overseas Filipinos back to the homeland.
“We remain a strong ally of every Filipino around the globe in ensuring their rights are protected and their voices are heard,” Ang stated.
Atty. Laudiangco was joined by NAMFREL National Chairperson Mr. Lito Averia, Jr., who highlighted the role of civil society in ensuring electoral integrity.
Averia encouraged active involvement not just during the voting period, but throughout the election cycle — from voter education to process monitoring.
“The right to vote is enshrined in our constitution. It’s a right that we have to exercise because it is our chance to choose the leaders who will shape the future of our country. Take time to know your candidates and see if they are really fit for the position they are running for,” Averia said.
The session ended with a strong call to action: Overseas Filipinos are urged to register, log in, and vote before the May 12 deadline to ensure their voices are counted in this upcoming election.
