The original deadline for overseas voting registration was set on September 30, 2021. Due to difficulties and limited travel due to the lockdowns, the Commission on Election (COMELEC) extended the deadline to October 14.

Despite the setback caused by the pandemic, the Philippine Consulate General in Sydney has successfully processed to October 14, a total of 4,800 new registrants for the 2022 national elections. 

The  2019 overseas registered voters totalled 8,900.  Add to this figure the new registrations of 4,800, the total of overseas voting registrants for the 2022 national elections is an impressive total of 13,700.

Consul Melanie Diano who was overseeing the process of overseas registrations, commented:

"On behalf of the Philippine Consulate General in Sydney, I would like to thank our Kababayans who registered for the Overseas Voting for purposes of the 2022 National elections. Big thanks also to Radio Tagumpay and all our Filcom leaders who promoted and supported our OV registration campaign. Mabuhay po kayong lahat!"

In line with the Consulate's call to NSW residents who hold Philippine citizenship and dual Philippine-Australian citizenship who want to vote at the next Philippine national elections, Radio Tagumpay undertook an overseas voting registration awareness campaign. We wish to thank the following community leaders and a well-known artist from the Philippines who extended a hand in the awareness campaign:

* Bob Alipalo

*Kate Andres

*Michelle Baltazar

*Jaime Fabregas

*Rey Manoto

*Jim Paredes (2 times)

*Danny Peralta

*Marcus Rivera

*Emily Rudd


One of the registrants who managed to make it on October 14 was Kai Cruz, Migration Agent.  Kai had to juggle work commitments and demands on a single mother, when the new extension was announced.

She said:

"As part of my freedom day to do list, I wanted to book an appointment at the Philippine Consulate in Sydney to register as an overseas voter. I was advised by my colleague that no need for booking an appointment as they accept walk in and the registration was extended. However, I was surprised that they made an announcement that October 14 was the last day for registration.   I rushed to the Consulate but was advised by the Concierge that the rules had changed from accepting walk ins to needing an appointment. I was devastated as I wanted to exercise my right as a Filipino.

"Thanks to the people who listened to my plea and made it possible. I felt excited when my name was called to come up and be allowed to finally register as an overseas voter. After living in Australia for more than a decade, I actually turned a blind eye when it comes to Philippine politics. But Australia has taught me that the government plays a big role when it comes to the welfare of the country, and hence, I want my vote counted with the hope of a better and stronger Philippines! "

All is well that ends well indeed.

The Australian Filipina congratulates the Philippine Consulate for achieving a high number of new registrations and also says well done to those who persisted to register despite the difficulties caused by the pandemic.    Mabuhay kayong lahat!

Comments(1)


Andrada Ryann

Praying to work in Australia as license caregiver. Hoping you will consider my cause. God Bless. Ryann Lachica Andrada

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