Strong Youth Turnout in Eastern Visayas Voter Registration
The Commission on Elections in Eastern Visayas processed over 143,000 voter registrations during its recent 10-day registration period from August 1 to 10. Officials reported this turnout as a clear sign of increasing political engagement among the region’s youth.
Despite the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections being postponed to 2026 from the original December 1, 2024 schedule, the Commission pressed on with updating and expanding the voters’ list. This effort aims to prepare a comprehensive voter base ahead of the rescheduled polls.
Leyte Leads in Voter Registrations Across Provinces
Comelec regional director Lawyer Jose Nick Mendros revealed that Leyte recorded the highest number of applicants with 57,873 registrations. This was followed by Samar with 27,514, Northern Samar with 22,058, Eastern Samar with 18,310, Southern Leyte with 11,247, and Biliran with 6,316 applications.
The final day alone saw a remarkable surge, with 33,786 voter applications processed—almost five times the number on the opening day, which had 6,594. Community leaders noted that the registration numbers steadily increased throughout the period, especially in the last three days as residents hurried to meet the deadline.
Youth Voter Registrations Dominate the Total Count
Of the total 143,318 registrants, 110,878 were SK applicants aged 15 to 17. This reflects a strong eagerness among young Filipinos in Eastern Visayas to participate actively in local governance and decision-making.
Meanwhile, 22,225 were regular voters aged 18 and above. Another 10,215 applications involved reactivations, changes of status, and corrections of records or entries, showing residents’ commitment to maintaining accurate voter information.
Voter Population and Election Preparedness
During the previous elections, Eastern Visayas had a registered voter population of 3.2 million. Local officials emphasized that the ongoing registration drive is vital to sustaining democratic participation despite delays in elections.
Mendros praised the public’s continued enthusiasm and assured that the Commission on Elections will maintain efficient, transparent, and accessible electoral services. “This turnout, especially from the youth, is a clear sign of growing civic awareness in the region,” he said.
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