The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is targeting to enlist two million registered overseas voters by the 2028 presidential elections, a significant increase from the current 990,000 registered Filipinos abroad.
Comelec Chairman's Statement
In a media forum, Comelec Chairman George Garcia expressed optimism about reaching the two-million mark. 'Hopefully, before September 30, 2027, we could increase our overseas voter registration to 2 million for the next elections,' Garcia said.
However, he noted that only 40,000 Filipinos abroad have filed applications to become registered overseas voters since December 1, 2025. 'Sadly, our consulates and embassies have been going around in various parts of the world but only about 40,000 have newly registered,' Garcia added.
Call for Early Registration
The Comelec head urged Filipinos abroad not to wait until the September 30, 2027 deadline. 'I hope our kababayans abroad won't wait for September 30, 2027 before they look to get registered,' he said.
Eligibility and Requirements
Under the law, eligible overseas voters are Filipino citizens abroad who are not disqualified by law and are at least 18 years old on or before May 8, 2028. Applications can be filed at Philippine embassies, consulates, Manila Economic and Cultural Offices, or designated registration centers in the Philippines.
Required documents include a valid Philippine passport, a Seafarer's Record Book (for seafarers), or an original or certified true copy of an Order of Approval of Filipino Citizenship or Identification Certificate (for dual citizens).
