The overseas absentee voting, which is one of the most anticipated events for Filipinos all over the world, especially those in Spain, will take place from April 10 to May 9 – a month-long period. The first step is to compare their names to those on the list of certified foreign voters at their nearest Philippine Foreign Post. Keeping this in mind, it is critical that registered Filipino voters residing abroad understand the processes and eligibility requirements for voting in future elections in their respective countries.
Also Read: Official List of Certified Filipino Voters in Spain for 2022 National Elections
However, bear in mind that this may vary from location to location, so make sure you are aware of your country’s foreign post’s requirements on how to vote in Spain.
Before participating in the overseas voting procedure, overseas Filipino voters are encouraged to double-check their information on the Philippine Foreign Post’s website. You may want to start by reading this guide to learn more about the step-by-step process for a seamless and trouble-free overseas voting experience from Spain.
Voting Guidelines in Spain for the 2022 Philippine Elections
Filipinos who want to vote in Spain may now do so in a safe and secure manner. If their name is on the country’s list of certified overseas voters (CLOV), they must vote in person or by mail at the Philippine Foreign Post between April 10 and May 9.
Of course, no one enjoys having to wait in line or having their plans disturbed on any given day. Nonetheless, this is a fantastic opportunity for Filipino professionals working abroad and residents of France to mark their calendars for the overseas voting session.
Step by Step Procedure of Voting as a Filipino in Spain
Step 1 – Check if your name is on the list of registered voters in Spain here.
Step 2 – Vote wisely.
You should already know who to vote for, including the candidates’ professional and political backgrounds, as well as their positions on issues affecting employment, health, foreign workers, and immigration policies, just to mention a few.
NOTICE:
In an advisory released by the Philippine Embassy in Spain, it said that it will implement the POSTAL VOTING SYSTEM. This is one way wherein voters may cast their ballot, if not in person.
For Postal Voting:
- After you accomplish your mailed ballot, make sure that it is properly sealed before mailing it back to the Embassy.
- Each ballot is enclosed with a stamp or seal that is required upon mailing it back to the Embassy.
- Make sure to send the accomplished ballot to the Philippine Embassy as soon as possible or on or before 09 May 2022.
* For more information regarding the overseas absentee voting in Spain, you may follow the Facebook page and website of the Philippine Embassy.
To learn more about the overseas voting in Spain, you may refer to this advisory posted by the Philippine Embassy:
Step 3 – Cast your ballot in the vote-counting machine or VCM (formerly known as the PCOS machine).
This will increase the efficiency of vote counting and evaluation. Also, be certain that you have completed all relevant portions of the ballot so that you do not overlook anyone.
Step 4 – Get the indelible ink marked on your index finger.
When you leave the Philippine Foreign Post, this will serve as confirmation that you have already voted. And you’re done! You may now exit the poll and return home, return to work, spend the day with friends, or take a day off.
Overseas Filipino Voting Schedule in Spain
Voting for the overseas elections begins from 8 a.m. (local time) to 7 p.m. (Philippine time), from April 10, 2022, through May 9, 2022.
During this period, walk-ins are welcomed at all Philippine Foreign Posts. However, in order to vote in the ongoing overseas absentee voting, you must authenticate your details on-site.
Video: HALINA’T BUMOTO!
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has posted a video on the upcoming overseas elections. More information about voting from countries other than the Philippines is available here.
Every qualified OFW and Filipino immigrant in Spain must vote in order to exercise their rights and obligations as Filipino nationals. However, regardless of where they live, all Filipinos must educate themselves on what to anticipate and do on Election Day.
Overseas Filipinos have a full month to vote. This should give everyone enough time to think about who they will vote for to become the country’s next leader. Once they’ve made their selection, personnel from the Philippine Foreign Post in Spain will help them vote quickly and effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I need to be able to vote in the 2022 National Elections?
During election season, Filipino citizens are required to carry their original passports or mariner’s books to the polls. Residents of Spain with dual citizenship must additionally present their ID card or authorization document to vote.
How do I know if I am a registered voter in Spain?
The list of certified overseas voters in Spain, as well as the list of Filipino seafarers, may be found on the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) website or at any of the country’s Philippine Foreign Posts. In the 2022 elections, only registered Filipino voters will be eligible to vote.
How does COMELEC decide on which voter records to deactivate?
The Commission on Elections deactivated the records of voters who did not vote in at least two elections (COMELEC).
When can applicants collect their Voter ID?
The Commission on Elections has paused the distribution and fabrication of voter identity cards across the country due to the implementation of Republic Act 11055, or the National ID System.
The Philippine Statistics Authority is working hard to implement the National ID system in the country. It is slated for implementation in all foreign service occupations by 2022.
Where can I find important information and updates on overseas voting?
Filipinos in Spain are advised to monitor the Philippine Foreign Post’s social media outlets for election updates.
Summary
The Philippine Foreign Post in Spain works hard to make overseas voting as simple and accessible as possible to all Filipinos living in the country. As a result, they are asking Filipinos across the country to double-check the list of certified overseas voters (CLOV) before voting at the Philippine Foreign Post beginning April 10.
With the information provided in this article, it is believed that Filipinos living overseas, wherever they may be in the globe, would have a trouble-free election this year. Remember that overseas absentee voting takes place a month before the national elections in your home country, so please share this information with any friends, coworkers, or family members who may require it.
READ NEXT: Updated List of Philippine Overseas Labor Offices (POLO) Branches Abroad
CONTACT INFORMATION
Embassy of Philippines in Madrid
ADDRESS: Calle Eresma 2, 28002 Madrid, Spain
PHONE LOCAL: 91.782.3830
INTERNATIONAL: +34.91.782.3830
FAX LOCAL: 91.411.6606
INTERNATIONAL: +34.91.411.6606
EMAIL: pe.madrid@dfa.gov.ph
WEB SITE: http://www.philmadrid.com/
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Consulate-General of Philippines in Barcelona
ADDRESS: Avinguda de les Corts Catalanes 594 1-1, 08007 Barcelona, Spain
PHONE LOCAL: 930.267.007
INTERNATIONAL: +34.930.267.007
EMAIL barcelonapcg.consular@dfa.gov.ph
NOTES Emergency contact local: 645 675 098
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