As the deadline for voter registration comes closer and closer to our midst, the call to get more new voters on board is getting louder and louder. The Commission on Elections (COMELEC), recognizing this urgency, has launched a mobile app for Android users to make the process even more convenient online. This is part of its campaign to encourage at least 4M Filipinos above the age of 18 to officially register as voters for the upcoming national elections in 2022.

Launched on June 14, COMELEC shared a link that allows Android users to download the app, and fill in the application form virtually. They will then be presented with their unique QR code that will be scanned in the COMELEC office when they get their biometrics taken. These steps effectively cut the registration process to operate faster and more efficiently, and lessens paper waste as well.

Steps on using the mobile app:

1. Open the mobile app and click “Get Started” to select the appropriate type of application. Click “Proceed”.
2. Fill in the form with the necessary information, and confirm the inputed data.
3. Tap “Generate QR code” and download the code to your mobile phone’s gallery.
4. Bring a valid ID to your nearby COMELEC office for QR code scanning and taking of biometrics.

However, on June 17, after an overwhelming amount of downloads, COMELEC has announced that it will close the public link so as to prioritize its use in pilot areas selected by the board, including 575 cities and municipalities across the country. Those who have previously downloaded the app can still use it and share it with friends through Android’s SHAREit or Bluetooth, but it will no longer be available for downloading.

https://twitter.com/COMELEC/status/1405441362569220096/photo/1 

Despite this, though, COMELEC has another digital route new registrants can take. Earlier this year, the board launched iRehistro. The official platform for Online Accomplishment of Forms for Voter Registration.

Similar to the mobile app process, applicants will be asked to choose which type of application they need as soon as they enter the portal. Then, they will need to supply the necessary details on the form. Once accomplished, they have the option to schedule an appointment for biometrics capture and form submission in their respective registration offices. If the applicant does not wish to schedule an appointment, they can visit the office any time during working hours and before the end of the registration period (September 30, 2021).

Applications with appointments will be given higher priority than walk-ins.

The COMELEC also promptly reminds applicants to wear the necessary personal protective equipments when they visit the COMELEC office, such as face masks and face shields. They will also need to bring their own pen and valid ID to safely go through all the steps required.

The Philippines is definitely nearing a crucial point in history with the upcoming elections in 2022, and the need for every eligible voter to participate and show up is bigger than ever. With everything that happened since the pandemic and beyond, we’re sure you and your friends are eager to do something about it, and acting on your right and duty to vote is one of the most basic things you can and must do.

Now that the COMELEC has issued its own online portal and mobile app, there’s really no more excuse to not register, unless you’re physically unfit to do so. But if you are able, here’s a reminder and a challenge for you to go out there (with protective and sanitation essentials, of course), and make a difference. Take up your duty to the country and register to vote.