Rep. Brian Poe Raises Alarm Over Voter Education Cuts
MANILA, Philippines — Rep. Brian Poe of the FPJ Panday Bayanihan Partylist urgently highlighted the sharp reduction in the Commission on Elections’ (Comelec) 2026 budget for voter education. He stressed that such cuts in voter education budget undermine vital efforts to advance electoral reforms and ensure voters are well-informed.
During the recent House budget discussions, Poe voiced strong support for Comelec Chairman George Garcia. He emphasized that voter education budget is a non-negotiable item, especially amid rising challenges like misinformation, disinformation, and voter disengagement.
Significant Budget Slash Alarms Election Officials
Comelec officials revealed that although their preparatory national and local election (PNLE) budget constitutes over 24% of their total proposed allocation, the funds specifically allocated for voter education in 2026 have been drastically reduced. The cut amounts to a staggering ₱145 million less than previous years.
Local leaders expressed concern that this reduction threatens the integrity of electoral processes and the ability to effectively engage the electorate ahead of the elections.
Poe: Voter Education Must Remain a Priority
“This is unacceptable. Kung gusto natin ng reform lalo na para sa mga election natin, kailangan ng pondo ang voter education. I’m sure even those in the minority would agree that if we want a free and fair elections, voter education is a non-compromisable budget item,” Poe declared firmly.
He reiterated that voter education should not depend only on election years. Instead, consistent funding is crucial to combat misinformation, boost youth participation, and raise awareness about the electoral process.
Early Funding Vital to Combat Misinformation
Poe underscored the importance of early preparation. Starting voter education well before election season helps counter false information and encourages more active voter engagement, especially among young Filipinos.
He stated, “Whether or not it is an election year, voter education must remain consistently funded as an essential safeguard of democracy.” This firm stance reflects his commitment to strengthening democratic participation through education.
Inclusive Reforms to Boost Voter Turnout
In addition, Poe highlighted reforms aimed at increasing voter turnout among persons with disabilities (PWDs), medical frontliners, first responders, and senior citizens. He noted that providing these groups with the opportunity to vote early could raise their turnout from the current 70% to as high as 90%, matching national averages.
“Para sa PWDs, medical frontliners, first responders and senior citizens, sana bigyan ng pagkakataon bumoto para tumaas from 70% to 90% like the rest of the country,” he said.
Commitment to Collaboration and Reform
Finally, Poe reaffirmed his office’s readiness to collaborate closely with Comelec in crafting the necessary policies to ensure the electoral process is inclusive, accessible, and efficient for all voters.
“For these reforms, Comelec has my support,” he concluded, emphasizing the critical role of voter education and inclusive policies in safeguarding democracy.
For more news and updates on voter education budget, visit Filipinokami.com.
