Voter registration is set to become more accessible as the Commission on Elections (Comelec) plans to open about 100 shopping malls nationwide as hubs for election-related services. This initiative aims to help more Filipinos register, update, or transfer their voter records ahead of the 2026 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) and the 2028 presidential race.
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Expanding Reach Through Malls
Comelec Chairman George Erwin Garcia emphasized that these efforts are designed to make registration more convenient. “Initiatives like voter registration are expanding, giving Filipinos the flexibility to register, update, or transfer records conveniently at a mall near them,” he said.
The electoral commission has partnered with major mall chains, including Robinsons Malls, SM Supermalls, WalterMart, Filinvest Malls, and Megaworld Lifestyle Malls, under the Register Anywhere Program (RAP). Garcia explained that the program allows these malls to serve as both registration and voting centers, a move beneficial for both the Comelec and the mall operators. “The well-known malls want to expand to their other branches in different places. Hopefully, they will reach 100 for the 2028 elections,” he added.
Several other malls, particularly in Mindanao, have also expressed interest in joining the initiative. Garcia expressed optimism about the growing support, noting that even malls that were not previously affiliated with Comelec have signed on to host registration activities.
However, he clarified that malls owned by political families will not be allowed to participate in election-related operations. “I’m happy because the malls we know continue to support the Comelec, including other malls that have not yet joined the Comelec are also joining us,” he remarked.
Boosting Voter Participation Nationwide
Voter registration resumed on October 20 and will continue until May 18, 2026. Already, over 800,000 Filipinos have registered, and the Comelec is confident it can reach its goal of 2 million registrants before the deadline. By turning malls into accessible registration points, more citizens can participate in shaping the country’s future, ensuring broader representation and engagement in national and local elections.This approach not only simplifies the process but also strengthens the democratic involvement of the average Filipino.
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