Voting 101

Once you turn eighteen, you are allowed to register as a voter for the upcoming elections. And whether you’ve registered at that age or a few years later, as a Filipino it is an exercised right of every citizen in the country to cast their votes on election day.


Here are a few tips to help guide you through the voting process.

Voter Registration

Last year 2015, the COMELEC has assessed citizens with their registrations, both in the COMELEC office and in booths located inside the different malls around the city to make it convenient for people to register.

Make sure you have done your biometrics and have gotten your voter’s registration completed.


Know your polling place

You vote where you are registered. Your polling place is usually determined by your address or the barangay which you belong in. Voting places are usually in public establishments like fire stations, schools, libraries and community centers. Double check the location as to make sure it has not been moved.

Know the candidates

Watch all the debates to distinguish which platform is best for you. It is important to be aware of their intentions for the certain position they’re running for in the government. The future of our country’s economy will be in their hands, so as much as possible, check the news everyday to see updates on how they answer interviews and how they want to address problems.

Choose wisely

Don’t just choose a candidate based on his/her popularity or political dynasty. Make sure you believe in their capabilities and that you are not voting for them just because your loved ones are for them. It must be your own choice to vote for that certain candidate.


On Election day

Bring your ID

Most voters are not asked for their identification, but some are, especially those who haven’t voted for a few years and those who are voting for the first time. Your driver’s license/passport will work.

Avoid mistakes in filling out the ballot

Make sure to fill out everything in the ballot correctly. Bringing a “kodigo” on election day is highly advised. Write the names and numbers of the candidate you’re voting for to avoid confusion. Also, fully shade the oval beside the name of the candidate or party list of your choice to avoid invalidity of your vote. Re-check/review everything before submitting your vote. It is important to take note of your Ballot ID, write it down.

Submit the ballot to the PCOS machine

After filling out the ballot, insert it inside the PCOS machine and wait for it to scan and record your ballot. Do NOT stain or crumple your ballot as in that case, the machine will not be able to read your ballot. Once your ballot is successfully accepted by the PCOS machine, it will then be dropped in the ballot box.

Affix your thumb mark
After completing the process, affix your thumb mark on the space beside your name in the book of registered voters.

For more information visit www.comelec.gov.ph

Get to know the Presidentiables and Vice Presidentiables

Get to know the Senatoriables

What to do if your receipt does not match your ballot?



Xatti Ybañez
iSTORYA Intern


Xatti has a bubbly and outgoing personality. She loves to explore new things, constantly craves for food, loves to shop and travel, and to spend time with family and friends. Everything she endeavors is for her to get a step closer to her goal of becoming a public relations manager.