The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has allowed European Union (EU) Election Observation Mission members to enter polling places after voters have cast their votes on Eleksyon 2025. This decision comes after initial restrictions based on the country’s election laws.
Comelec sets clear rules for EU observers
Initially, Comelec stated that EU observers could not enter the voting precincts during election day. Poll chief George Erwin Garcia explained, “Sinabi namin na bawal sila sa presinto sa araw ng eleksyon, kapag bumoboto ang mga kababayan natin, pagkat yan ang ating batas.” This means that observers are prohibited inside polling places while Filipinos are voting, as mandated by law.
However, Garcia clarified that after voting ends, observers are permitted inside. “Ngayon po ang sinabi namin, tapos na ang pagpapaboto, magkakaroon na ng tinatawag ng printing ng election returns, posting ng election returns, ballot review, pwede na po sila na nandyan,” he added.
Furthermore, observers can also enter canvassing areas without restrictions, provided they can be accommodated. Garcia said, “Pwede na rin po silang pumasok, walang restriction, sa ating mga canvassing areas so long as kaya i-accomodate sila.”
Legal basis for restrictions explained
On Thursday, Garcia reiterated that allowing EU observers inside polling precincts during voting would violate Philippine laws. He referenced the 1987 Constitution and the Omnibus Election Code (OEC) Article 7, Section 52(k) B.2, which states that only duly accredited watchers may enter polling places to vote, while other members of citizen groups must stay at least fifty meters away.
Despite the restrictions, Garcia noted that the EU observers understood the situation and appreciated Comelec’s flexibility. “Nag-agree sila at nagpasalamat sila sa pinakita nating flexibility at naunawaan natin ang kanilang kalagayan at naunawaan na nila ang pag-insist natin sa ating batas,” he said.
He added, “Sapagkat sa bandang huli, kung meron silang isusulat sa kanilang observation, ‘yun ay firm ang Comelec sa pagpapatupad ng ating batas.” This shows Comelec’s commitment to enforcing election laws firmly.
EU observers’ role during Eleksyon 2025
The EU Election Observation Mission is present in the Philippines by invitation of the government. Their presence aims to provide impartial observations of the electoral process. By allowing them to enter after voting hours, Comelec balances transparency with legal compliance.
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