The pre-enrollment portal of the Commission on Elections (inset). EXPAT MEDIA

For the first time in Philippine election history, overseas Filipinos—including those in the UAE—will be able to vote online in the upcoming 2025 midterm elections. Eligible voters must pre-enroll on the Commission on Elections (Comelec) voting portal before May 7 to participate.

Who can vote?

Filipino expats can vote for 12 senators and one party-list representative. However, only those listed in the Certified List of Overseas Voters (CLOV) can enroll for online voting. • Check your name on the CLOV: - Dubai and Northern Emirates - Abu Dhabi

How to pre-enroll for online voting

1. Visit the enrollment portal: ov.comelec.gov.ph/enroll 2. Use your valid ID or passport (photocopies are not accepted) 3. Follow the verification process: - Enter personal details - Submit a live facial capture - Upload a valid ID - Record a video displaying your ID 4. Receive a one-time password (OTP) for verification 5. Wait for an email or SMS confirmation granting access to the voting portal

When can you vote?

• Voting starts: April 13, 2025, at 8am (UAE time) • Voting ends: May 12, 2025, at 3pm (UAE time) Don’t forget to pre-enroll before May 7 to vote from your phone, tablet, or computer! When voting, make sure cast your vote within the specified time limit.

Can you still vote in person?

Yes. In exceptional cases, or if you encounter issues with online voting, you can vote at designated online voting kiosks in the Philippine Consulate in Dubai or the Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi. According to Comelec, priority access is given to senior citizens, pregnant women, persons with disabilities and those who are illiterate.

Will there be manual voting at the Philippine Consulate or Embassy?

No. The Philippine Consulate General or Embassy will not offer manual voting in the premises. Voting kiosks will be set up at the consulate or embassy for illiterate voters, persons with disabilities, senior citizens, and pregnant women, but the votings kiosks will still use the online voting system and the voter still has to use his or her own account.

Online test voting available

Voters can familiarize themselves with the system through test voting, available until April 12. The test platform will close once official voting begins.

Comelec warns against fake websites

The Comelec Office for Overseas Voting has cautioned voters against phishing scams. “Overseas voters are advised to verify they are accessing the official enrollment link to avoid fraudulent sites,” according to Comelec. ICA/CAM/Expat Media
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