The pressure is on for the upcoming May 9, 2022 PH Elections. With just three days before some 65.7 million Filipinos cast their votes, candidates are making the most out of the time remaining in campaigning to gain more support.
Meanwhile, Filipinos are at the edge of their seats as election day draws near, looking towards the moment when there will be a new president who will lead the country.
But before we get ahead of ourselves, here’s a guide on what to expect and how to cast your vote in the coming elections.
What to bring?
Note: No need to bring your vaccination card or present a negative COVID-19 test result.
What to expect?
Since there is still an ongoing pandemic, the government continues to implement minimum health and safety protocols. Everyone is required to wear face masks, practice social distancing, and frequently disinfect.
Polling precincts will be open between 6 am to 7 pm. Bring patience and expect that lines may become longer than usual due to social distancing. The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) said, if ever there are still voters lined up beyond 7 pm, voting may continue.
Meanwhile, COMELEC is also reminding the public that they can wear clothes of any color so long as it does not bear a picture or name of any candidates.
Step by step voting guidelines
Step 1: Temperature check
Upon arrival, your temperature will be checked. If you have a temperature of 37.4°C and below, you may proceed to the next step. However, if your temperature is at 37.5°C and up, you will be asked to step aside for a few minutes to be checked again.
If you’re still too hot *wink*, you will be escorted to an isolated polling precinct to cast your vote and avoid exposing others. According to COMELEC, if a person is exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms they still have the right to vote. But if they are COVID-19 positive under monitoring by their local barangay and are prohibited to go out of their homes, they will not be able to vote.
Step 2: Voter Assistance Desk
Once your temperature is cleared, you may go ahead to the Voters Assistance Desk. Here you will state your name and the election worker will inform you of your precinct number, sequence queue, and room assignment.
Step 3: Proceed to the assigned room and get your ballot
After getting the details you need, proceed to your room assignment and look for an electoral board member to get your ballot.
Remember to inspect your ballot before going anywhere and in the presence of an electoral board. Do not accept a ballot that has marks, folds and/or tears.
Apart from your ballot that should have no blemish or any imperfections, you will also be provided with a secrecy folder and a marker.
Step 4: Fill up your ballot
Next, proceed to the voting area, sit down and start shading.
Other important reminders in filling up your ballot:
Step 5: Submit your ballot
It’s time to cast your ballot!
Keep your accomplished ballot in the secrecy folder and approach the area where the vote-counting machine (VCM) is. Insert your ballot into the machine and wait for it to process your vote.
You will get a receipt for review; check if it reflects the candidates you voted for and then have your forefinger marked with an indelible ink by a poll clerk. You cannot take the receipt outside the polling place.
And you’re done! COMELEC does not recommend voters to stay in the polling precinct after casting their ballot to lessen possible exposure to COVID-19. Best to go home, try not to get anxious and hope that the right and deserving candidates for the Philippines will win.
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