The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is planning to use larger public spaces for the May elections to provide a more comfortable voting experience, especially for vulnerable sectors.
The Commission on Elections ( Comelec ) is taking steps to improve the voting experience for vulnerable sectors in the upcoming May elections. Comelec Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia announced plans to utilize larger public spaces, such as gymnasiums, instead of traditional polling centers located in small elementary schools. Garcia emphasized the importance of providing a more comfortable environment for voters, especially those with disabilities, senior citizens, and pregnant women.
He believes that spacious venues will minimize long lines and overcrowding, creating a more pleasant voting experience. While emergency accessible polling places are available in every precinct, Garcia acknowledges that not all facilities are fully inclusive. He questioned whether true inclusivity means simply providing accessible spaces or also considering the time spent by voters within the precinct. Comelec aims to go beyond basic accessibility by implementing additional measures to ensure a smooth and inclusive voting process.These measures include standardizing mall voting and introducing early voting hours from 5:00 to 7:00 AM for PWDs, senior citizens, and pregnant women. Furthermore, the Comelec Precinct Finder, an online platform allowing voters to check their assigned polling place, will be publicly available by the end of April. Comelec hopes these initiatives will contribute to a more accessible and equitable voting experience for all Filipinos
ELECTIONS ACCESSIBILITY VOTES COMELEC PHILIPPINES
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