The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has expressed strong support for Malacañang's recent declaration establishing March 14, 2026 as a special non-working day specifically for the Second District of Antipolo City. This significant administrative move is designed to maximize voter participation in the upcoming special congressional elections scheduled for that date.
Facilitating Democratic Participation
In a detailed phone interview conducted on Thursday, February 26, 2026, Comelec Chairman George Garcia emphasized the critical importance of this proclamation. "This will help ensure that the citizens of the Second District will be able to vote," Garcia stated unequivocally. The declaration, formalized through Proclamation 1173 issued by Malacañang on Wednesday, February 25, creates optimal conditions for registered voters to exercise their fundamental democratic rights without workplace conflicts.
Substantial Voter Engagement Expected
The electoral landscape for the March 14 special polls reveals substantial participation metrics. Official data indicates that a total of 252,793 registered voters from Antipolo City's Second District are eligible to cast their ballots. These voters will be accommodated across 348 strategically organized clustered precincts throughout the district.
Each clustered precinct will be managed by a dedicated Electoral Board (EB) consisting of three essential positions: a chairperson, a poll clerk, and a third supporting member. This structured approach ensures organized and efficient voting processes across all polling locations.
Compensation and Benefits for Electoral Board Members
The Comelec has outlined comprehensive compensation packages for Electoral Board members through Resolution 11198. According to the established guidelines, EB chairpersons will receive P12,000 in compensation, while board members will be entitled to P11,000 each. These amounts encompass honoraria, travel expenses, communication allowances, and meal provisions.
"The chairperson and members of the EB shall be entitled to compensation depending on their designation, which is inclusive of honoraria, travel, communication, and meal allowances," clarified the Comelec in their official statement.
Additional Incentives and Protections
Beyond direct compensation, government employees serving on Electoral Boards will receive a minimum of 10 days service credits for their participation in the electoral process. Furthermore, the Comelec has established substantial protective measures, including P500,000 death benefits and P200,000 medical assistance provisions for all EB chairs and members.
Chairman Garcia emphasized the non-negotiable nature of these benefits, particularly for teachers who frequently serve in these roles. "The additional pays and benefits for teachers are non-negotiable. The heroes of the nation are not to be undervalued," Garcia asserted, highlighting the essential contribution of electoral workers to democratic processes.
This comprehensive approach combining administrative facilitation through the special non-working day declaration with substantial support for electoral personnel demonstrates a concerted effort to ensure both high voter turnout and efficient election administration in Antipolo City's Second District.
