Pangasinan: The Commission on Elections (Comelec) Pangasinan provincial office is setting an ambitious target to register approximately 100,000 new voters from October 20, 2025, to May 18, 2026. The initiative aims to bolster voter registration for both regular and Sangguniang Kabataan elections.
According to Philippines News Agency, Pangasinan provincial election supervisor, lawyer Marino Salas, shared that the province currently has about 2.1 million voters aged 18 and above. The target of 100,000 new registrations is considered a conservative estimate, with the intention to expand the voter list substantially. Salas emphasized the importance of increasing voter participation across all upcoming elections.
For first-time voter registration, the primary requirement is a government-issued identification (ID), such as a national ID. Salas mentioned that school IDs would also be accepted, and while a birth certificate is not mandatory, it can be submitted as an additional document.
The registration process will also accommodate transfers, correction of entries, and reactivation of voter records. In a bid to increase accessibility, Comelec offices plan to conduct off-site registrations in coordination with schools and barangay officials.
Special attention is being given to indigenous groups, persons with disabilities, and the elderly, with specific activities and schedules tailored to their needs. Salas highlighted the importance of reaching these groups by coordinating with local government officials and tribe leaders, especially in areas with challenging terrain.
Residents are urged to register early to avoid the typical last-minute rush. Salas advised against waiting until the deadline, encouraging early registration to avoid long queues. To facilitate this, Comelec offices will remain open from Monday to Saturday, including holidays.