PASIG CITY -- Recognizing the role of the youth in shaping the country’s future, the Department of Education (DepEd) spearheaded the campaign “Pulse of the Youth: National Voter Registration Campaign for the 2022 Elections” to provide information on how to register for the upcoming elections.
"It is important that we hear the voice of our youth, nurture and develop their critical thinking about national affairs, and remind and teach them to practice their right to suffrage," Secretary Leonor Magtolis Briones said.
Organized by the Bureau of Learner Support Service-Youth Formation Division (BLSS-YFD), in cooperation with the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), Undersecretary for Administration Alain Del B. Pascua noted that the youth vote greatly affects the politics in the country.
“Statistics shows that in the arena of Philippine election the youth vote is a force to be reckoned with. It [the youth vote] has taken a considerable percentage in the last two elections that greatly influence the country’s political landscape,” shared Usec. Pascua.
“Voting gives voice to young people. Sa pamamagitan ng pagboto, nabibigyan ang kabataang Pilipino ng kapangyarihang magpasya kung paano patatakbuhin ang ating bansa. Ito ang pinakamalaking oportunidad upang kayo ay makapagbigay ng kontribusyon sa kinabukasan ng bansang Pilipinas,” he added.
Meanwhile, COMELEC Spokesperson and Director James B. Jimenez discussed that to register as a new voter, eligible youth must be at least 18 years of age on or before the May 09, 2022, National and Local Elections; and a resident of the Philippines for at least one (1) year and a resident of the place in which you intend to vote for at least six (6) months.
Registrants may obtain registration forms through the https://irehistro.comelec.gov.ph/cef1, https://comelec.gov.ph/, Mobile Registration Form App, and walking-in to COMELEC offices in your residence.
Furthermore, BLSS Director Lope Santos III shared that election is an instrument to achieve the true essence of democracy, while Ken Bien Caballes, President of the National Federation of Supreme Student Governments, encourage his fellow youth to register for the elections.
“It is our role to take part in things that is for the betterment of the nation and it gives us the power to forward our concerns. Voting for the right people equate to better healthcare system, job allocation, and equal rights to all. Choose leaders who are competent, just, and proactive,” Caballes said.
The COMELEC Voter Registration for 2022 Elections will end on September 30, 2021. For further information about the election and registration go to: https://comelec.gov.ph/. (DepEd)
