PH consulate in SF gears up for 2025 overseas internet voting

During the internet voting information drive, Filipino community leaders used their mobile phones and IDs to test the internet voting system. CONTRIBUTED

SAN FRANCISCO – Preparations are underway for online voting for overseas Filipinos for the 2025 national elections.

The Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco last week hosted the online voting and counting system training for US posts and the internet voting information drive for Filipino community leaders.

The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) and the Department of Foreign Affairs Overseas Voting Secretariat (DFA-OVS) conducted both the training for DFA personnel and the information drive for the Filipino community.

These initiatives are part of the ongoing efforts to implement internet voting for overseas Filipinos in the upcoming 2025 national elections.

Consul General Neil Frank R. Ferrer thanked the COMELEC and DFA-OVS for leading the activities in San Francisco.

In his welcome remarks, Ferrer emphasized the value of continuous learning in public service and noted that “activities like this one enable us to adapt to changing circumstances, develop innovative solutions, and remain grounded in the principles of good governance.”

During the information drive, the COMELEC commissioners encouraged the Filipino community leaders to embrace new technology that enhances the democratic process.

“You are here because we believe you are our ambassadors and partners in empowering the Filipino American community,” Ferrer said, addressing the Fil-Am leaders. “We hope you will share today’s learnings with your organizations, families and peers, and encourage them to participate in nation-building by exercising their right to vote. Your support amplifies our voice in reaching every Filipino in the area.”

Similar trainings have been scheduled in other foreign service posts worldwide. A total of 76 posts including the Manila Economic Cultural Offices (MECOs) and Mission will conduct internet voting for the 2025 polls.

The deadline for overseas voter registration is Sept. 30, 2024.

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