2025 Elections: Calabarzon, Central Luzon, and Metro Manila Dominate Voter Registration
MANILA, PHILIPPINES – The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) has released preliminary figures for voter registration in the upcoming 2025 elections, revealing a significant concentration of registered voters in specific regions and provinces. A total of 24,976,569 registered voters, representing 36.5% of the total, hail from Calabarzon, Central Luzon, and Metro Manila.
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| Comelec Chairperson George Erwin Garcia (PNA file photo by Yancy Lim) |
This concentration is further emphasized by the top ten vote-rich provinces, which account for 31.1% of the electorate (approximately 21,288,128 registered voters). Cebu leads the provincial list with 3.41 million registered voters, followed by Cavite (2.45 million), Bulacan (2.17 million), Pangasinan (2.16 million), Laguna (2.14 million), Negros Occidental (2 million), Batangas (1.96 million), Pampanga (1.67 million), Rizal (1.67 million), and Iloilo (1.65 million).
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Metro Manila's influence is also apparent in the voter registration figures. The top ten vote-rich cities account for 11.1% of the total registered voters (approximately 7,611,745). Quezon City leads with 1.45 million voters, followed by Manila (1.14 million), Davao City (1.01 million), Caloocan (765,248), Cebu City (721,469), Taguig (680,554), Zamboanga City (483,058), Pasig (463,885), Antipolo (455,797), and Valenzuela (438,556). Six of these cities are located within Metro Manila. The absence of Makati City from this list is attributed to the Supreme Court's decision transferring the Embo barangay to Taguig, resulting in an estimated loss of 270,240 voters for Makati.
The COMELEC also notes a significant concentration of voters in a central "meridian" area encompassing the Bicol Region, Western Visayas, Negros Island Region, Central Visayas, and Eastern Visayas. Further analysis of these regional figures is pending. The COMELEC will continue to monitor voter registration and provide updates as the 2025 elections approach.
Comelec Sets Key Dates for 2025 Elections
Comelec Resolution No. 10999 listed the following dates for all its activities ahead, during, and after the May elections:
• Jan. 12, 2025 to June 11, 2025: Start of the election period and implementation of gun ban
• Feb. 11, 2025 to May 10, 2025: Campaign period for candidates for senator and groups in the party-list elections (except April 17, Maundy Thursday, and April 18, Good Friday)
• March 28, 2025 to May 10, 2025 - Campaign period for candidates for House of Representatives and parliamentary/provincial/city/municipal officials (except April 17, Maundy Thursday, and April 18, Good Friday)
• April 13, 2025 to May 12, 2025 - Voting period for overseas voters
• April 28-30, 2025 - Voting period for local absentee voters
• May 11, 2025 - Liquor ban and end of campaigning
• May 12, 2025 - ELECTION DAY
• June 11, 2025 - Last day to file SOCE
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has released Resolution No. 10999, outlining the crucial dates for all election-related activities leading up to, during, and following the May 12, 2025 national and local elections. The comprehensive schedule covers various stages of the electoral process, from the commencement of the election period to the final submission of Statements of Contributions and Expenditures (SOCEs).
The election period, encompassing the implementation of the gun ban, will run from January 12, 2025, to June 11, 2025. This period marks the official start of the election cycle and signifies the enforcement of strict regulations on firearms.
Candidates vying for Senate seats and party-list groups will have their campaign period from February 11, 2025, to May 10, 2025. This period, however, excludes Maundy Thursday (April 17) and Good Friday (April 18), in observance of religious holidays.
The campaign period for House of Representatives candidates and those running for parliamentary, provincial, city, and municipal positions will commence slightly later, from March 28, 2025, to May 10, 2025, also excluding Maundy Thursday and Good Friday.
Overseas Filipino voters will have their voting period from April 13, 2025, to May 12, 2025, allowing ample time for ballots to be cast and received. Local absentee voters will have a shorter voting window, from April 28 to 30, 2025.
Election Day is set for May 12, 2025. The day before, May 11, 2025, will see the implementation of a liquor ban, and all campaigning activities will officially conclude.
Finally, candidates and party-list groups will have until June 11, 2025, to submit their SOCEs, a crucial step in ensuring transparency and accountability in election financing. The Comelec's detailed schedule provides clarity and guidance to candidates, voters, and stakeholders, ensuring a smooth and organized electoral process. The release of Resolution No. 10999 marks a significant milestone in the preparations for the upcoming elections.
Philippines Gears Up for Crucial 2025 Midterm Elections: Over 18,000 Positions at Stake
Manila, Philippines – As the nation prepares for another pivotal exercise in democracy, Filipinos are set to cast their votes on May 12, 2025, in what is expected to be a highly contested midterm election. The polls will determine the country’s new leaders across national and local positions, shaping the political landscape for the next three years.
Filing of Certificates of Candidacy: A Surge of Hopefuls
From October 1 to 8, 2024, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) fulfilled its mandate by accepting Certificates of Candidacy (COCs) and Certificates of Nomination and Acceptance (CONAs) from aspirants vying for over 18,000 elective posts. The positions up for grabs include:
- 12 Senators
- 63 Party-List Representatives
- 254 Members of the House of Representatives
- 82 Governors and 82 Vice Governors
- 800 Provincial Board Members
- 149 City Mayors and 149 City Vice Mayors
- 1,690 City Councilors
- 1,493 Municipal Mayors and 1,493 Municipal Vice Mayors
- 11,948 Municipal Councilors
- 25 Members of the Bangsamoro Parliament (BARMM)
- 40 BARMM Party Representatives
The sheer number of candidates reflects the intense competition expected across all levels of government, with political dynasties, emerging parties, and independent candidates battling for dominance.
Senatorial Race: 66 Official Candidates, 117 Declared ‘Nuisance’
On December 13, 2024, the Comelec released the final list of 66 senatorial candidates who will appear on the official ballot. Out of the 183 individuals who initially filed their COCs, a staggering 117 were dismissed as "nuisance candidates"—a move aimed at streamlining the electoral process and ensuring only serious contenders remain.
The senatorial race is particularly crucial, as it will determine the balance of power in the 24-member Senate, where half of the seats are contested. Analysts predict that the outcome could either strengthen or weaken the current administration’s legislative agenda.
Key Issues Shaping the Elections
With the campaign period approaching, several pressing concerns are expected to dominate voter discussions:
- Economic Recovery – Inflation, job creation, and post-pandemic growth remain top priorities.
- Corruption and Governance – Public trust in institutions continues to be a major factor.
- Infrastructure and Public Services – Voters demand better healthcare, education, and transportation.
- Peace and Security – Rising tensions in conflict-prone areas and crime rates may influence local races.
- Climate Change and Disaster Preparedness – Frequent typhoons and environmental degradation push these issues to the forefront.
The Comelec has assured the public that it is working to ensure a smooth, fair, and secure election. Measures include:
- Strengthening cybersecurity to prevent hacking and disinformation.
- Deploying additional vote-counting machines (VCMs) to remote areas.
- Partnering with law enforcement to prevent election-related violence.
- However, challenges such as vote-buying, harassment of candidates, and logistical hurdles in far-flung regions remain persistent concerns.
A Nation at a Crossroads
The 2025 midterm elections are more than just a routine political exercise—they represent a defining moment for the Philippines. With thousands of positions at stake and critical national issues in play, the results will shape the country’s direction for years to come.
As the campaign season heats up, voters are urged to scrutinize candidates, demand accountability, and participate actively in the democratic process. After all, in a nation of over 110 million people, every vote counts.
PH Voter Registration for 2025 Midterm Elections Nears 69 Million
Manila, Philippines – The Commission on Elections (Comelec) announced Sunday that the Philippines is nearing a record-breaking number of registered voters for the 2025 midterm elections, with a total of 68,618,667 individuals now eligible to participate. This represents a significant increase compared to the 65,745,526 voters in the May 2022 national elections and the 67,839,861 who participated in last October's village and Sangguniang Kabataan elections.
Region IV-A (CALABARZON) boasts the highest number of registered voters, with a remarkable 9,764,170 individuals. Region III (Central Luzon) follows closely with 7,712,535 registered voters, and the National Capital Region (Metro Manila) comes in third at 7,562,858. Regions VII (Central Visayas) and V (Bicol Region) round out the top five, with 4,407,337 and 4,066,662 registered voters, respectively.
In contrast, the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) recorded the lowest number of registered voters at 1,111,859, followed by Caraga (Region XIII) with 1,889,616. The disparity in voter registration numbers across regions highlights the varying population densities and levels of political engagement throughout the archipelago.
The nationwide voter registration period for the 2025 elections officially concluded on September 30th. Comelec officials expressed satisfaction with the high turnout, indicating a strong level of public interest and participation in the upcoming midterm polls. The significant increase in registered voters compared to previous elections underscores the importance of ensuring a smooth and efficient electoral process to accommodate the larger electorate. The Comelec is now focused on preparations for the elections, including the deployment of resources and personnel to ensure a fair and credible voting experience for all registered voters.
Comelec Takes Control of Datu Odin Sinsuat in Maguindanao del Norte Following Election Official's Killing
Manila, Philippines – The Commission on Elections (Comelec) announced Friday that it has placed the municipality of Datu Odin Sinsuat in Maguindanao del Norte under its control following the tragic killing of election officer Atty. Maceda Abo and her husband, Jojo, on March 26th. The decision, formalized in a Comelec en banc resolution, is effective immediately and will remain in place for the May 12th midterm elections.
Comelec Chairperson George Garcia confirmed the move, stating that the commission will focus primarily on ensuring peace and order in the area. While the law grants the Comelec the authority to fully assume control of the local government unit (LGU), Chairperson Garcia clarified that this will only be done if deemed absolutely necessary. He emphasized the commission's commitment to minimizing disruption to the daily lives of residents.
"To the people, it has nothing to do with your work and studies. Don't worry. It will be as normal as possible," Garcia assured the public. The Comelec's primary concern is addressing the security concerns raised by the recent killings. The commission's powers under Comelec control are extensive, allowing it to take all necessary steps to maintain peace and order within Datu Odin Sinsuat.
The decision to place Datu Odin Sinsuat under Comelec control underscores the gravity of the situation and the commission's commitment to ensuring the safety and security of election officials and the integrity of the electoral process. The Comelec will continue to monitor the situation closely and take appropriate action to ensure a peaceful and credible election in the municipality.
Police to Staff Electoral Boards in Maguindanao Town Amid Security Concerns; Manila Joins Unity Walk
Manila, Philippines – In a move to ensure the safety and security of election officials during the May 12th midterm elections, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) announced Thursday that police officers will serve as members of electoral boards (EBs) in polling precincts within the municipality of Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte. This decision follows the recommendation of Comelec Chairperson George Erwin Garcia to place the area under the poll body's direct control, a response to the recent assassination of Election Officer Maceda Abo and her husband.
"The Comelec en banc is set to approve the tapping of PNP personnel from other regions to serve as members of the Electoral Boards, as support staff, and even as Department of Education Supervisor Officials," Garcia stated in an interview. He emphasized the necessity of this measure to safeguard the EBs on Election Day, adding, "Don’t ever test the will of this Commission. Don’t ever test our patience. We will do everything necessary just to ensure the people’s voices are heard."
This policy mirrors a similar approach implemented during the 2022 elections, with over 7,000 PNP personnel having undergone training and certification to serve in EB roles. Garcia confirmed that the Comelec en banc is finalizing discussions on the proposal, even while awaiting a formal recommendation from the ground. "While we are still waiting for a formal recommendation (from the ground), the Comelec en banc can act based on our determination," he explained.
The possibility of expanding Comelec control to encompass the entire Maguindanao del Norte province is also under consideration by the Regional Joint Security Command Conference. This proactive measure underscores the seriousness with which the Comelec is addressing the security risks in the region, particularly in the wake of the tragic killing of Election Officer Abo and her husband, which prompted Garcia's initial call for Comelec control over Datu Odin Sinsuat on Wednesday.
Manila's Commitment to Peaceful Elections
Meanwhile, in a separate development highlighting the national commitment to peaceful and credible elections, Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna and Vice Mayor Yul Servo participated in the Unity Walk and Peace Covenant Signing in Manila. The event, organized by the Comelec in collaboration with the Philippine National Police (PNP), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and other government agencies, served as a powerful demonstration of unity and commitment to a fair electoral process.
The Manila City government officials, leading the entire Asenso Manileño slate, participated in the activity held at the Kartilya ng Katipunan on Thursday, a day before the official start of the 45-day campaign period for local positions. This symbolic act underscores Manila's commitment to ensuring a peaceful and orderly election campaign and a fair election process for all citizens. The event brought together various stakeholders, reinforcing the collaborative effort to maintain peace and security throughout the election period. The participation of Manila's leadership highlights the importance of local government support in ensuring the success of the upcoming elections.
Comelec Deploys First Batch of ACMs to Mindanao for May 12 Polls
Manila, Philippines – The Commission on Elections (Comelec) commenced the deployment of automated counting machines (ACMs) on Friday, sending the initial batch to three key areas in Mindanao in preparation for the May 12 elections. Comelec Chairperson George Garcia announced that 3,700 ACMs were transported from their warehouse in Biñan, Laguna, to regional hubs strategically located in Iligan City, Kidapawan City, and Zamboanga City.
"The distribution is taking place across our various hubs," Garcia explained in an interview. "From there, our local Comelec personnel will collect the machines as needed."
This phased approach prioritizes regions with greater geographical distances. The Iligan City hub will serve Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, and Iligan City itself. Kidapawan City will manage ACMs for Maguindanao del Norte, Maguindanao del Sur, and Cotabato City. Finally, Zamboanga City's hub will oversee the distribution to Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, and Zamboanga City.
"We're deploying the machines to the more distant regions first," Garcia clarified, indicating that areas closer to the central warehouse will receive their ACMs at a later stage. A total of 110,000 ACMs, including contingency machines, will be deployed nationwide for the midterm elections. The Comelec aims to complete the deployment before the mandatory Final Testing and Sealing of the vote-counting machines, as stipulated in the Poll Automation Law.
Security Measures and Budget Allocation
In a related development, Chairperson Garcia oversaw the transfer of the budget for election-related security operations to the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Thursday. This transfer was a key component of a signed memorandum of agreement (MOA) designed to bolster security measures and ensure the smooth conduct of the May 12 national and local elections.
PNP Chief Police General Rommel Francisco Marbil emphasized the police force's unwavering commitment to voter safety. "We're dedicated to ensuring a violence-free election," Marbil stated. "Our efforts extend beyond simply preventing violence; we aim to guarantee that every Filipino can vote freely and without fear. Our President's promise is simple: go out and vote, and we will ensure your safety."
Garcia provided assurances regarding the responsible management of funds allocated to both the AFP and PNP. "The public can be confident that all financial assistance provided to the AFP and PNP will undergo thorough liquidation and auditing," Garcia assured. "Funds will not be released without proper liquidation. The PNP, in particular, deserves praise for their exemplary and efficient liquidation processes, often completing them within days." This transparency aims to build public trust in the integrity of the election process. The timely and efficient deployment of ACMs, coupled with robust security measures, underscores the Comelec's commitment to a fair and secure election.
Comelec Upholds Perpetual Disqualification of Former Senator Osmeña
Manila, Philippines – The Commission on Elections (Comelec) en banc has issued a final decision, rejecting former Senator Sergio Osmeña III's plea to overturn his perpetual disqualification from holding public office. The April 3, 2025 resolution dismissed Osmeña's motion for reconsideration, upholding the January 24, 2020 ruling by the Comelec's Second Division. The decision stems from Osmeña's repeated failure to submit his Statement of Contributions and Expenditures (SOCE) for the 2010 and 2016 elections.
The Comelec's resolution definitively states that Osmeña's appeal lacks merit. Despite an extension granted for the 2010 SOCE filing, he failed to comply with the legal requirements within the stipulated timeframe. His subsequent candidacy in the 2016 senatorial elections further compounded the issue, as he again neglected to file the necessary SOCE.
Osmeña's defense rested on a claim of good faith, attributing his non-compliance to the Comelec's alleged inaction on his request for an extension. However, the Comelec firmly rejected this argument, stating that Osmeña "should not be allowed to benefit from his own inaction."
The Comelec resolution explicitly details the consequences of Osmeña's non-compliance: "The non-submission of his SOCE for the 2016 National and Local Elections (NLE) makes the respondent liable to the penalties prescribed by law. His claim of good faith is baseless, as the respondent, upon the filing of his bid for public office, committed to the filing of his SOCE as required of every candidate."
The ruling emphasizes the critical importance of SOCE compliance in maintaining the integrity of the electoral process. The Comelec's resolution underscores that the failure to file SOCEs undermines the transparency and accountability vital to a fair and credible election.
The Comelec's decision concludes with a clear statement of justification: “Based on the foregoing, the Respondent’s failure to file his SOCEs both for the 2010 and 2016 NLEs justifies the imposition of the penalties of administrative fine and perpetual disqualification from holding public office.” This decision serves as a strong reminder of the legal obligations incumbent upon all candidates and the consequences of non-compliance. The Comelec's unwavering stance on this matter reinforces its commitment to upholding the integrity of Philippine elections. The former senator's attempts to appeal the decision have been definitively rejected, bringing a final conclusion to this long-standing case.
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- Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps): P38.4 billion
- Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP): P511 million
- Services for Residential and Center-based Clients: P33.4 million
- Supplementary Feeding Program (SFP): P96.9 million
- Social Pension for Indigent Senior Citizens: P401.6 million
- Implementation of RA No. 10868 (Centenarians Act of 2016): P15.175 million
- Protective Services for Individuals & Families (COMBASED): P29.4 million
- Protective Services for Individuals & Families (PROPER): P2.089 million
- Services for Displaced Persons (Deportees): P4.002 million
- Recovery and Reintegration Program for Trafficked Persons: P628,200
- Assistance for Persons with Disability & Senior Citizens: P380,580
- National Household Targeting System for Poverty Reduction: P1,513,436.51
- KALAHI-CIDSS-KKB: P257.79 million
- Philippines Multi-sectoral Nutrition Project: P44.35 million
- Bangsamoro Umpungan sa Nutrisyon (BangUn): P123.26 million
- PAMANA- Peace and Development: P47.298 million
- PAMANA- DSWD/LGU Led Livelihood: P534.289 million
- Pag-Abot Program: P500.37 million
- Philippine FOOD STAMP Program/ Walang Gutom Program (WGP): P7.254 billion
- Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP): P882.974 million
- KALAHI CIDSS-NCDDP-AF: P564,633.36
- Beneficiary FIRST Project (BFIRST): P238.7 million
- TRUST RECEIPT: P395.65 million
- TARA BASA! TUTORING PROGRAM: P1.081 billion
- Enhanced Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty (EPAHP): P4.645 million
- Social Technology Development and Enhancement: P32.5 million
- Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS): P7.585 billion
- Financial Assistance (routinary, May 2-12, 2025): P3.075 billion