In 2025, the Philippine elections will introduce a new and exciting way for Filipino expats in Dubai to participate: online voting. This is a huge step forward in making the election process more accessible for Filipinos living abroad, especially in places like Dubai.
This online voting system is designed to make it easier for eligible overseas Filipino voters to cast their ballots for the Philippine midterm elections, which will be held on May 12, 2025.
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Eligibility
Before diving into the details of how to vote online, it’s important to know if you’re eligible for the online voting process.
To participate in online voting, you must meet the following criteria:
- Registered as an Overseas Voter: You must already be a registered overseas voter with the Philippine Consulate in Dubai.
- Under the 77 Philippine Posts: The Philippine Consulate in Dubai, along with other Philippine embassies and consulates worldwide, will facilitate the online voting process.
Check if you are part of the list of certified list of overseas voters in Dubai here.
How to Pre-Enroll for Online Voting
If you’re already a registered overseas voter, you’re on the right track! But even then, you’ll need to pre-enroll on the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) online portal to be eligible for the online voting system.
Key Steps in the Registration Process
- Pre-enrollment Period: Registration for online voting starts on March 10, 2025, and runs through May 12, 2025. During this period, you can enroll online to participate in the elections.
- Complete the Online Enrollment Form: Head to the Comelec Voting Portal to fill out the required enrollment form. This form is necessary for verifying your eligibility to vote online.
- Verify Your Identity: As part of the process, you’ll need to upload a valid ID, such as your Philippine passport. The system will also require a live photo capture to match your appearance with your ID.
- Receive a One-Time Password (OTP): Once you complete the form, you will receive an OTP via your registered mobile number or email. This is used for added security in your registration process.
- Submit Your Identification: After entering the OTP, the system will ask you to take a clear photo of your ID and a video of you holding the ID, confirming your identity.
- Confirmation: After completing these steps, you’ll receive a confirmation email or SMS that your pre-enrollment was successful. You’ll then be eligible for online voting.
When Will the Online Voting Take Place?
The online voting period for Filipino expats in Dubai will coincide with the Philippine midterm elections, but there are some key dates you need to know.
Absentee Voting Timeline
- Voting Starts: April 13, 2025, at 8 AM UAE time.
- Voting Ends: May 12, 2025, at 3 PM UAE time (7 PM Philippine time).
During this period, you will be able to log into the online voting portal to cast your vote.
How to Vote Online
Once you’re registered and have received your confirmation, it’s time to vote. Here’s a breakdown of how you can vote online:
- Access the Voting Portal: Starting on April 13, 2025, you’ll receive a link to the voting portal via your email or mobile number.
- Log In: Use your credentials to log in securely to the portal.
- Choose Your Candidates: Select the candidates you wish to vote for. In 2025, you will be voting for 12 senators and a party-list representative.
- Submit Your Vote: After making your selections, submit your vote.
The voting process is designed to be as seamless and secure as possible, making it simple to vote using any mobile phone, tablet, laptop, or desktop computer with a camera.
Voting Kiosks: For Special Cases
While most eligible overseas voters can cast their votes online, there will be special voting kiosks for those who need extra assistance. These kiosks will be available at the Philippine Consulate in Dubai for:
- Senior citizens
- Pregnant individuals
- Persons with disabilities (PWD)
- Illiterate voters
If you fall into one of these categories, you may use the kiosk to cast your vote in person. The kiosk system will help guide you through the voting process, ensuring that you can participate even if you’re not able to vote online.
Test Voting
To help you feel confident before the actual election day, COMLEC will offer a test voting period from March 10 to April 12, 2025.
This will allow you to practice the online voting process and familiarize yourself with the portal before it’s time to cast your vote.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What happens if I miss the pre-enrollment period?
If you miss the pre-enrollment deadline of May 12, 2025, you won’t be able to vote online. However, you can still vote physically at the Philippine Consulate or Embassy.
- Can I vote using any device?
Yes! You can vote using a mobile phone, tablet, laptop, or desktop computer with a built-in camera or an external camera connected.
- What should I do if I don’t receive my OTP?
If you don’t receive your OTP, check your spam or junk email folder. If you still have issues, contact the Comelec support team for assistance.
- Can I vote from anywhere within the UAE?
Yes, you can vote from anywhere in the UAE as long as you have internet access and a device with a camera.
Video: Comelec’s guide to internet voting for Filipinos abroad
The video discusses the process of internet voting for Filipino overseas voters, including registration, pre-enrollment, test voting, and the actual voting period.
Conclusion
Online voting offers Filipino expats in Dubai a much-needed convenience in participating in the Philippine elections. By following the registration process and ensuring that you are properly enrolled, you can enjoy the ease of casting your vote from the comfort of your home. Don’t forget to participate in the test voting to familiarize yourself with the process and help ensure your vote counts in the 2025 elections!