Comelec says voter registration in Middle East continues

THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) said on Monday that overseas voter registration activities in the Middle East are still ongoing amid heightened alert following direct military engagements involving Iran and coalition forces led by the United States and Israel.

“As of today, 2 March 2026 (Monday), overseas voter registration activities in Philippine Embassies and Consulates in the Middle East affected by the ongoing tensions and escalations in the region continue as Philippine Foreign Posts remain operational and open for consular services, including overseas voter registration,” the poll body said in a statement.

Comelec also urged the Filipino community in the region to remain vigilant against misinformation and disinformation, which tend to surge during periods of geopolitical instability.

“The Commission on Elections highly encourages our fellow Filipinos in the Middle East to stay alert and keep updated of the current situation in their respective areas, be vigilant against misinformation/disinformation and trust only reliable sources of information,” the Comelec added. “Take heed of the notice and advise from the Department of Foreign Affairs as well as the Philippine Embassy or Consulate, and contact help lines if in distress.”

The ongoing registration drive, which began on Dec. 1, 2025, is part of preparations for the 2028 Philippine national and local elections and runs until Sept. 30, 2027. — Erika Mae P. Sinaking