The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has issued a crucial reminder to registered voters regarding the upcoming special congressional elections in the 2nd District of Antipolo City. Unlike the automated national and local polls held in May 2025, this election will utilize a manual voting system, as confirmed by the Comelec in a recent social media announcement.
Manual Voting System Details
In a statement released on March 6, 2026, the Comelec emphasized that no automated election system (AES) will be deployed for the March 14 special elections. This marks a significant departure from previous electoral processes, requiring voters to manually write the names of their chosen candidates on ballots. The Comelec advised, "Remember: This is a Manual Election so write the name of your chosen candidate clearly," underscoring the importance of legibility to ensure votes are counted accurately.
Step-by-Step Voting Procedure
To facilitate a smooth voting experience, the Comelec outlined a clear procedure for voters. First, individuals must locate their name, precinct number, and sequence number at the Voter's Assistance Desk (VAD) upon arrival at the polling station. Once inside their designated precinct, voters will receive their ballots and can proceed to cast their votes immediately. After completing the ballot, it should be folded properly and deposited into the official ballot box to finalize the process.
Voting Hours and Special Accommodations
The voting hours for the special elections are set from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on March 14. However, in a move to support vulnerable groups, the Comelec has introduced early voting hours from 5 a.m. to 7 a.m. exclusively for senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and pregnant voters. This accommodation aims to reduce wait times and provide a more accessible voting environment for these individuals.
The Comelec's announcement highlights the unique nature of this electoral event, focusing on manual processes to ensure transparency and voter engagement in the Antipolo City district. Voters are encouraged to prepare accordingly and participate actively in this special congressional poll.
