TO strengthen the democratic rights of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and other Filipinos abroad, Senator Alan Peter Cayetano supported the proposal to expand their voting method through electronic and postal voting.
This follows the publication of Senate Committee Report No. 369, filed by the Senate Committees on Electoral Reforms; and Finance, and sponsor Senator Imee R. Marcos, this November 27, 2024.
The purpose of this proposal is to amend the Overseas Absentee Voting Act to address the challenges faced by Filipino voters abroad and prevent their disenfranchisement.
“Our OFWs and overseas Filipinos sacrifice so much to contribute to our national economy. We owe it to them to ensure they have a voice in choosing leaders who will recognize and enhance their role in our economy, wherever they may be in the world,” said Cayetano.
He also said OFWs will contribute significantly in 2023 with a total of $33.5 billion in remittances — equivalent to 8.5% of the country’s GDP.
Cayetano stressed that the proposal is in line with Article II, Section 5 of the Philippine Constitution which requires a secure system for absentee voting for Filipinos abroad.
The proposal seeks to have electronic voting using secure online platforms as well as postal voting for those with limited internet access. It also aims to have a system for seafarers where they can vote online without leaving the ship.
To ensure the security and ease of use of the new voting methods, the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) is tasked with setting guidelines to safeguard voter data and ensure easy use by Filipinos abroad.
Cayetano said the proposal, which has broad support in the Senate, will give millions of Filipinos abroad greater opportunities to participate in the Philippine democratic process, especially in the upcoming 2025 elections.
“Our OFWs are critical to our economy and society. It’s time we ensure they have a voice in shaping our nation’s future,” he said.
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