"CHANGE starts with us" may be a cliche every time the election season comes along, but it holds a lot of truth.
With less than a week to go before the end of the voters' registration, it is important for us to register ourselves to vote or have our accounts reactivated with the Commission on Elections (Comelec).
While some may jokingly say that why should they vote when they have no one to choose among those who have already signified their intention to run for an elective position, they also have to understand that every single vote counts. If there is a candidate they do not want to win, their single vote could make all the difference.
To be able to reach out to more voters and unregistered voters, Comelec has made its registration and reactivation process more accessible.
The agency has entered into a partnership with several mall chains in the country to put up satellite registration sites. In a way, this prevents overcrowding at the Comelec offices. Based on Comelec's recent post on its official Facebook account, in Davao City, one can register at the Ayala Abreeza Mall from September 27 to 30 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Comelec has also extended its voter registration hours to cater to more people. From Monday to Friday, voter registration will be from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. then on Saturdays and holidays, it will be from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
For those who will register, transfer, and have their accounts reactivated, you will need to bring at least one valid ID -- student ID, employee's ID, postal ID, senior citizen's ID, driver's license, BIR ID, NBI clearance, passport, SSS/GSIS ID, IBP ID, or PRC ID. Cedula, barangay clearance, homeowners' association ID, and police clearance will not be accepted. Registrants will have to bring the original and photocopy of the requirements they will present.
Meanwhile, for those who will need to reactivate their account, they can do it online. Voters will have to download the CEF-1 form at comelec.gov.ph and fill it out manually or digitally. However, you will have to print it for your thumbprints. Once you complete the form, scan it and email it to the official email address of your local Comelec. Aside from the form, you must also attach a scanned copy of your valid ID.
The office of the election officer will contact you for either an online interview, need for personal appearance, or additional documents.
If we truly want to create change for our nation in our own capacity, there is a need for us to register and vote. Whoever we vote for and win will dictate the direction of our country in the next several years.