With only 10 days left before Eleksyon 2025, the Asian Network for Free Elections (ANFREL) has mobilized a team of 10 long-term observers across the Philippines. Each observer is assigned to one of the country’s 10 regions, covering a total of 24 provinces and 32 cities and municipalities.
These observers will watch closely throughout the entire electoral process—from campaign activities to election day operations and post-election events. ANFREL emphasizes their role in ensuring continuous, on-the-ground monitoring to uphold transparency and fairness.
Before heading out, the observers underwent an intensive two-day workshop. The training equipped them with the latest tools, methodologies, and insights necessary to fulfill international election observation standards. Key speakers included representatives from the Commission on Elections (Comelec) and prominent election watchdogs such as the Legal Network for Truthful Elections, National Movement for Free Elections, and the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting, along with media partners.
ANFREL’s team will evaluate a wide range of elements: election laws, campaign conduct, media coverage, deployment of Automated Counting Machines (ACMs), and the Random Manual Audit. They’re also on high alert for election-related violence, disinformation, misuse of state resources, technology abuse, and campaign finance violations. Protecting vulnerable groups remains a crucial focus.
“Inclusivity, accessibility, and public confidence are our key benchmarks,” ANFREL says. They want to ensure technology boosts transparency without eroding credibility.
As an accredited international election observer by Comelec, ANFREL stays committed to strengthening democracy in the Philippines. This mission marks their fifth major observation since 2008, spanning multiple national and local elections.
The group will present an interim report on May 16, just four days after voters cast their ballots. A comprehensive final report will follow in July. These findings will offer evidence-based recommendations aimed at improving the integrity and openness of future elections—including the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) parliamentary elections scheduled for October 2025.
With 27 member organizations in 18 countries, ANFREL plays a vital role supporting civil society, media, and stakeholders in overcoming election challenges and advancing democratic processes. Since its founding in 1997, ANFREL has conducted 80 international election observation missions worldwide.
Stay tuned for more updates on Eleksyon 2025 as the nation prepares for this pivotal moment in Philippine democracy.