Commission on Human Rights Calls for Electoral System Reform
The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has called for significant changes to the electoral system following the 2025 midterm elections. They urged Congress to revisit the laws addressing political dynasties and push for reforms that promote a more inclusive and transparent voting process.
In a recent statement, the CHR commended the Commission on Elections (Comelec) for their initiatives to make the elections more accessible. These efforts included early voting options for vulnerable groups, streamlined voting procedures in detention centers nationwide, and stricter actions against vote-buying and election-related misinformation.
Ensure Accessibility in Polling Centers
The CHR emphasized the need to improve accessibility at polling sites. Reports revealed that many precincts lacked essential features such as ramps, shaded waiting areas, functional accessible restrooms, and wheelchairs. To address this, the CHR proposed setting up exclusive voting centers for vulnerable sectors in malls or introducing mobile voting stations in targeted locations.
Expand Voter Information Campaigns
It is crucial, according to the CHR, that Comelec enhances voter education efforts. Vulnerable voters should be fully informed of their rights and the information available to help them make confident decisions at the polls.
Implement Preventive Measures Against Electoral Violence
The CHR urged the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to strengthen security in election hotspots. They stressed that investigations into election-related violence must be transparent and that those responsible should be held accountable.
Reform Political Dynasties and Enhance Representation
One of the key reforms the CHR recommends is to revisit the Anti-Dynasty Law. Additionally, they encouraged Comelec to support political party reforms, regulate campaign financing more strictly, expand programs that promote women’s participation in politics, and publish gender-disaggregated data to track progress.
Combat Disinformation and Promote Digital Literacy
The CHR also pointed out the need to fight election-related disinformation. They called on the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), the Department of Education, and media organizations to implement digital literacy and civic education programs. Furthermore, they insisted that social media platforms must be held accountable for failing to moderate harmful content.
Ensure Voter Health and Safety Amid Extreme Weather
With increasingly severe weather patterns, the CHR stressed the importance of prioritizing the health and safety of vulnerable voters. This includes providing shaded waiting areas, proper ventilation, hydration stations, and other measures to reduce heat-related risks.
Citizens’ Role in Upholding Electoral Integrity
The CHR highlighted that election violence and political dynasties remain major challenges. They reminded citizens of their vital role in protecting the integrity of elections by reporting violations and rejecting irregularities and vote-buying.
“While the 2025 elections reflect progress in participation and innovation, persistent barriers to full inclusion, safety, and informed decision-making must be addressed through sustained reforms… The CHR remains committed to working with government agencies, civil society, and communities to realize an electoral process that is fully rights-based, inclusive, and democratic,” the statement said.
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