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Tips for First Time Voters

Updated: May 22, 2022

Written By: Kia Khasandra Yulas

YOUR VOTE MATTERS. A man is seen shading his ballot on May 9, 2022. Photo released by Rappler.


As Filipinos, we need to know the importance of voting and how to be a wise voter, especially in choosing the candidate to be elected. We also have a law or right as a voter here in the Philippines.


According to the 1997 Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines—Article V Suffrage. Suffrage may be exercised by all Filipino nationals who are not otherwise disqualified by law, are at least eighteen years old, and have resided in the Philippines for at least one year, as well as in the location where they want to vote, for at least six months immediately preceding the election. The exercise of suffrage is not subject to any literacy, property, or other substantive requirements.


HOW TO BECOME A VOTER?


The process is very simple, but in 2021 when the opening will start for those who want to register with the Comelec or have any concerns regarding being a voter, some people will spend a lot of time waiting because this year, 2021, is still under quarantine, particularly in some places in the country. To become a registered voter you must physically submit all the essential paperwork to become a registered voter. You must hand over a completely completed registration form (CEF-1A) to your election officer, which you may obtain at the Office of Election Officer (OEO) or download from the commission's website. You must also produce a photocopy of any valid ID that contains your photo, signature, and home address, together with your application. None of the three requirements must be missing.


Wait until the allocated election officer has checked all of your documentation. After all of your papers have been validated, you may go on to the next phase, which is the collection of your biometric data, which includes your signature, thumbprint, and photographs. Lastly, is for you to get your acknowledgment receipt which you can present upon getting your Voter's ID. Note that they only have schedules given to each other or slot numbers to prevent the spread of the virus. All processes are limited to a few individuals because each has a protocol to follow.


HOW TO VOTE WISELY?


According to an interpretation from a professional voter I met, it is very far from changing when it comes to voting, unlike the year 1986 when former President Corazon Aquino won against President Ferdinand Marcos. What a huge change she has witnessed in today’s era compared to the first time she voted. Initially, they only relied on what their two eyes could see, but they later added their own opinions and perspectives based on their parents' ideas. Fortunately, with the help of social media now, it is easier for first-time voters to choose the candidate they want to elect. But on the other hand, social media also has a negative effect because both Filipinos are already fighting just because of the debate over their different views or perspectives. It will be more helpful for first-time voters to research the candidates running for their respective positions. After all, there are different types of media platforms in today's generation, so why shouldn't we use them properly?. Don't just listen to or debate with others if we don't have enough basis for choosing the right candidate. We had better be humble and let the ignorant make noise. We are Filipinos and we must show that in this coming election we are not indulging in anyone's flowery words because we are educated in our own learning and knowledge.


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