Voter registration limited to 4 days per week starting November

FILE: Two applicants fill up the Commission on Election form during the resumption of the system of continuing registration of voters at the local Comelec in Pasay City on Tuesday (September 1, 2020). (PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan)

MANILA – The Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Monday said it would implement a four-day voter registration schedule on weekdays starting in November.

“We wish to clarify our earlier statement. While we have reverted to the weekday schedule, from Mondays to Fridays, only four weekdays will be allotted for voter registration as one weekday will be reserved for the disinfection of our offices,” Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez said in a statement.

The poll body official added that all Offices of the Election Officer (OEOs) will conduct disinfection activities every Friday unless the concerned local government unit (LGU) prescribes a disinfection day on any other weekday.

In case the LGU-prescribed disinfection day falls on a Saturday, OEOs will still be closed to the public on Fridays.

“Comelec offices are closed to the public on disinfection days,” he said.

Jimenez also reminded the public that voter registration hours are still from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The disinfection is being conducted to ensure the safety of employees and the public against the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

He added that voter registration remains suspended in critical areas that may be under localized enhanced community quarantine as determined by appropriate authorities.

The public is reminded that anti-Covid-19 precautions are still being strictly implemented inside Comelec offices.

“Wearing of face mask and face shield is mandatory, the number people to be allowed inside the Comelec office will be limited to ensure compliance with physical distancing requirements, and applicants are encouraged to bring their own pens. For further questions and clarifications, the Comelec’s official social media channels are always open to serve you,” Jimenez added.

The voter registration is being conducted in connection with the May 2022 national and local polls.

It will run until September 30, 2021.