Comelec exec says voter turnout in first few hours overwhelming

MANILA – An official of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) was overwhelmed by the response of the voting public in the first hours of the voting period on election day (May 9).

Comelec Commissioner George Garcia said they are happy to see Filipinos troop to the voting centers.

“So overwhelmed by the number of people flocking the polling areas. This is despite the pandemic threat. Democracy is alive in our country,” he said in a Viber message.

Garcia, together with some members of his family, was among the voters who voted during the first hour of the voting period.

“I, together with my 92-year-old mom and 65-year-old PWD (person with disability) sister have completed voting at Pedro Guevara School, Binondo, Manila, in record time of 5 minutes. Very orderly. Congratulations,” he added.

At the same time, the poll body official reminded voters not to forget to wear face masks.

“To one and all, always wear your face mask,” he said.

Meanwhile, Comelec chairman Saidamen Pangarungan visited Monday morning the Andres Bonifacio Elementary School in Buendia, Pasay City to observe the voting process there.

“Everything went smoothly, so far, six have cast their votes already, there’s no hassle,” he said in an interview.

Over 67 million registered Filipino voters are expected to cast their votes to elect the new leaders of the country including the successor of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte.

The new Chief Executive will be serving for six years or until June 2028.