Bayan Muna HK firmly condemns the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) for its negligence in fulfilling the urgent need for comprehensive voter education. The partylist asserts that the Online Voting System (OVS) constitutes the worst form of disenfranchisement seen in this election cycle, as it poses significant barriers that could prevent many eligible voters from exercising their right to vote.
During a picket protest held at the Philippine Consulate General (PCG) on January 19, Bayan Muna HK expressed their outrage with COMELEC. Bayan Muna HK convenor Lai Besana stated, “”It is unacceptable that many voters are at risk of losing their right to vote due to a cumbersome process burdened by excessive requirements. We will not stand by while the 2025 election is jeopardized by this deliberate disenfranchisement.” She added that COMELEC’s blatant disregard for the importance of Filipino migrants’ votes appears to benefit political figures like Marcos and other traditional politicians who exert control over the commission.
Besana emphasized that the OVS requires voters to verify their email addresses and undergo a preparatory registration process for identification and biometric capture. Only by completing these steps can voters be assured that they can cast their votes. Furthermore, voters facing issues during the voting process must travel to the consulate to cast their votes, a situation reminiscent of the previous Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) experience, which involved long queues and significant delays.
“The OVS imposes burdensome requirements that could prevent people from voting. This process will discourage voters, especially those who can only participate on weekends,” Besana warned.
“If COMELEC is truly committed to ensuring that we vote, they must prioritize informing voters about how the online voting system works,” asserted Besana. “We should not have to wait for issues to arise before action is taken.” Concerns have been raised regarding transparency in the voting process, particularly the absence of receipts confirming the candidate’s voters have selected—previously provided in earlier elections.
Adding to the concerns, Bayan Muna HK has noted that when citizens raise grievances, the government’s response often involves intimidation rather than solutions. Recent cases against progressive leaders and candidates highlight the intensified political harassment faced by those advocating for the people’s issues, especially as elections draw near.
“In light of these alarming developments, we must unite to demand that COMELEC address our legitimate concerns for a smoother voting process,” concluded Lai Besana.