LIVE UPDATES: 2025 midterm elections

POLLING centers nationwide opened as early as 5 a.m. Monday, May 12, 2025, for the 2025 national and local elections. Here are some updates from across the country.

Mandaue City Central School, one of the polling centers, experienced an issue in Cluster 55 of Barangay Cambaro when the automated counting machine (ACM) initially failed to read the ballots. This caused delays, especially for senior citizens and other voters.

According to Lannie Balase, the DESO technical support staff on site, the problem was due to wet marker ink on the ballots, which interfered with the machine’s reading process. Voters were then advised to let the ink dry before inserting their ballots into the ACM.

The issue was eventually resolved, and voting resumed without further problems. | via CAV

The situation at Mandaue City Central School, the largest polling center in the city, remains orderly as it accommodates voters from Barangays Centro, Alang-Alang, and Cambaro.

Vulnerable sectors — including senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and pregnant women — are patiently waiting and carefully checking the precinct clusters for their names. | via CAV

Here is the situation at Tejero Elementary School, one of the polling centers in Cebu City.

Voters have been flocking to the area since 6 a.m. Monday, May 12. Members of vulnerable sectors — including senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and pregnant women — took advantage of the early voting hours. | via JPS

EARLY VOTING INSIDE THE MALL

A few minutes before early voting closed, members of the vulnerable sector were seen inside Robinsons Galleria Cebu for the 2025 midterm elections on Monday, May 12, 2025. The Commission on Elections allotted a special early voting period from 5 a.m. to 7 a.m. for persons with disabilities, senior citizens, and pregnant women. | via CDF

CAMPAIGN LITTER OUTSIDE POLLING CENTER

Paper campaign materials for various candidates were scattered just outside Tejero Elementary School, one of the polling centers in Cebu City. | via JPS

EARLY VOTERS TURNOUT IN LAPU-LAPU CITY

Early voters gathered at Basak Elementary School, the largest polling center in Lapu-Lapu City, on Monday, May 12, 2025. Among them were senior citizens accompanied by family members, as well as persons with disabilities and pregnant women, all making use of the special early voting window from 5 a.m. to 7 a.m. | via DPC

REGULAR VOTING BEGINS

Voters begin to gather outside Robinsons Galleria Cebu just before 7 a.m. on Monday, May 12, 2025, as the regular voting period runs from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. | via CDF

SLOWER VOTING PROCESS

Annesita Seroy, a 74-year-old voter, said the voting process during the 2025 midterm elections is slower compared to the recent barangay polls.

She recalled that during the barangay elections, voters only had to present their cluster number to be allowed inside and vote right away. This time, however, voters had to show their cluster number, present a valid ID, and still be searched for on the official list, which caused delays.

Seroy arrived at the polling center at 5 a.m. but was only able to cast her vote around 6 a.m.

Another senior citizen, who requested anonymity, shared the same experience, noting that despite the early voting window, the process was much slower due to long lines and additional verification steps. | via CAV

Senatorial candidate and retired soldier Ariel Querubin takes advantage of the early voting period for senior citizens at Quinavite Elementary School in Bauang, La Union. | Contributed photos

The situation at Guadalupe Elementary School in Barangay Guadalupe, Cebu City, during the 2025 National and Local Elections on Monday, May 12, 2025. | via Juan Carlo de Vela

Situation at Barangay Inayawan Elementary School in Cebu City as the regular voting for the 2025 midterm elections begins Monday, May 12, 2025. | via Enrico Santisas

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., and other members of the First Family, including former first lady Imelda Marcos, cast their votes at the Mariano Marcos Memorial Elementary School in Batac City, Ilocos Norte on Monday, May 12, 2025. | via PNA

Voters of all ages continued to arrive at Basak Elementary School, one of the largest polling centers in Lapu-Lapu City, on Monday, May 12, 2025.

A female security guard told SunStar Cebu that vehicles transporting senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and pregnant women are given priority access to ensure their convenience and safety. All other vehicles, she said, are not allowed to enter the premises.

Around four to five police officers have also been deployed in the area to maintain peace and order. | via DPC

Situation at Commonwealth Elementary School in Quezon City as the voting for the 2025 midterm elections continues Monday, May 12, 2025.

Commission on Elections spokesperson Rex Laudiangco said the opening of the polling centers Monday morning, particularly during the early voting hours for vulnerable individuals, has so far been orderly. | via TPM

EARLY BIRDS

The Oliverio couple found this year’s voting process fast and easy, with no long queues. The couple availed themselves of the early voting schedule. They were among more than 2,000 registered voters in Barangay Parian who were allowed to cast their votes inside a mall.

In Central Visayas, mall voting was available only in Cebu, specifically at Robinsons Galleria and SM Consolacion. | via CDF

Provincial Board Member Thadeo “Jonkie” Ouano joined other voters in line at Don Gerardo Llamera National High School to cast his vote.

Ouano, who is running for mayor in Mandaue City, is a candidate under the One Mandaue slate. | via CAV

The situation inside Mabolo Elementary School in Cebu City as regular voting for the 2025 midterm elections kicks off on Monday, May 12, 2025. | via EHP

INSIDE TALAMBAN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Here are glimpses of the situation inside Talamban Elementary School, a polling center for Cebu City’s North District, on Monday, May 12, 2025. | via JPS

RE-ELECTIONIST CONGRESSWOMAN VOTES WITH FAMILY

Re-electionist Lone District Congresswoman Emmarie “Lolypop” Ouano-Dizon, along with her husband, Opao Barangay Captain Nixon “Jojo” Dizon, and their son, lined up at Don Gerardo Ll. Llamera National High School to cast their votes.

Ouano-Dizon is running for another term as Mandaue City’s lone district representative under the One Mandaue slate. | via CAV

One of the early voters at Basak Elementary School in Lapu-Lapu City during the 5 a.m. to 7 a.m. time slot shared that the process was relatively convenient despite the influx of voters.

Leonardo Gelicame, a 53-year-old resident of Barangay Basak, told SunStar Cebu on Monday, May 12, 2025, that the presence of numerous assistants made it easier for him and his son, a person with a disability, to navigate through the crowd.

His son, Val Leonardo Gelicame, who he accompanied, was casting his vote for the first time. | via DPC

COUNCILOR JAYPEE LABELLA CASTS HIS VOTE

Reelectionist Cebu City Councilor Edgardo “Jaypee” Labella was seen lining up at his precinct to cast his vote inside Mabolo Elementary School in Cebu City as regular voting for the 2025 midterm elections began on Monday, May 12, 2025. | via EHP

MALL VOTING UNDERWAY AT SM CITY CONSOLACION

The situation inside SM City Consolacion, a Comelec-identified venue for mall voting, as hundreds of registered voters from Barangay Pitogo begin to arrive. The mall voting program is currently taking place at the mall's atrium and will run until 7 p.m.

Contributed photos

Here is the situation at Tejero Elementary School, one of the polling centers in Cebu City.

Voters have been flocking to the area since 6 a.m. Monday, May 12. Members of vulnerable sectors — including senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and pregnant women — took advantage of the early voting hours. | via JPS

As of 7:09 a.m. Monday, May 12, 2025, around 34,494 or 91.92 percent of polling centers nationwide are actively casting votes, said the Philippine National Police.

Democracy in action! | via TPM

Some polling centers experienced delayed openings due to technical glitches and power interruptions, according to the Philippine National Police. | via TPM

Detained former President Rodrigo Duterte and his daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, are listed as voters at Daniel R. Aguinaldo National High School in Davao City for the 2025 National and Local midterm elections. | via Donna Stephanie Claire Agcambot, SunStar Davao

Senate President and his wife, actress Heart Evangelista, cast their votes at Buhatan Integrated School, Barangay Buhatan, Sorsogon City on Election Day, Monday, May 12, 2015. | via PTV

At least 383 registered Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDL) exercised their right to vote in the 2025 National and Local Elections at the Cebu City Jail Female Dormitory in Barangay Kalunasan, Cebu City, on May 12, 2025. | via Juan Carlo de Vela

Long lines began to build up inside Labangon Bliss Elementary School, which serves as the voting center for Barangay Calamba, around 8:10 a.m. Monday, May 12, 2025. Voters had started arriving as early as 6:30 a.m. | via NBR

Following the early voting hours, voters are patiently waiting in line outside their designated clusters at Basak Elementary School, Lapu-Lapu City’s largest polling center, on Monday, May 12, 2025. | via DPC

ROBINSONS GALLERIA CEBU EXTENDS SUPPORT FOR VOTERS

Gone are the days of sweltering heat and overcrowded classrooms, as malls now offer improved amenities and support to enhance voter convenience and turnout. For the 2025 midterm elections, Robinsons Galleria Cebu partnered with the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to serve as a voting venue.

Robinsons Galleria Cebu Mall Manager Richard Sarmiento said the initiative is covered by a memorandum of agreement with Comelec.

“Our intense preparation with Comelec aimed to provide all voters with convenience, ease, and support,” Sarmiento said.

He added that vulnerable sectors such as persons with disabilities, senior citizens, and pregnant women are allowed to use the elevators and escalators for easier access.

The mall also deployed housekeeping and security staff in shifts to assist voters throughout the day. | via CDF

Vice President Sara Duterte casts her vote for the 2025 midterm elections at Daniel R. Aguinaldo National High School (DRANHS), Davao City on Monday morning, May 12, 2025. | via SunStar Davao

Senatorial candidate Atty. Vic Rodriguez cast his vote at Quezon City High School for the 2025 midterm elections Monday, May 12. | via SMNI News

SCENES AT QUIOT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Here’s the situation at Quiot Elementary School, one of the polling centers in Cebu City, as of 8:45 a.m. Monday, May 12, 2025. Voters continue to flock to the area. | via Junior Journo Angel Rusiana

Voters continue to flock in Apas National High School, Cebu City as of 8:40 a.m. Monday, May 12, 2025 to cast their vote for the 2025 midterm elections. | via AYB

Scenes from inside Guadalupe Elementary School and Ramon Duterte Memorial High School in Cebu City as regular voting for the 2025 nidterm elections continues on Monday, May 12, 2025. | via EHP

Here’s a look at the system in place for the mall voting program at Robinsons Galleria Cebu for the 2025 midterm elections.

The mall provided a designated area where registered voters can check their precinct numbers, along with a waiting area with seats for their convenience. | via CDF

One person was killed in a shooting incident in Silay City, Negros Occidental, on Election Day, Monday, May 12, 2025.

According to Silay City Police Chief, Police Lieutenant Colonel Mark Anthony Darroca, the victim was standing outside the headquarters of a political group when unidentified men aboard a van opened fire.

More details to follow. | via PTV

Vice President Sara Duterte answers questions from the media after casting her vote at Daniel R. Aguinaldo National High School in Davao City on Monday, May 12, 2025. | via SunStar Davao

LONG LINES, LONG PATIENCE

A long queue of voters formed in Barangay Opao, Mandaue City where voting is taking place at Don Gerardo Ll. Llamera National High School.

With the rising heat, voters are advised to bring water, handheld fans — and plenty of patience. | via CAV

SCENES AT NAGA CENTRAL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Here’s the situation at Naga Central Elementary School, the largest polling centers in City Of Naga, as of 9:00 a.m. Monday, May 12, 2025. Voters continue to flock the area. | via Junior Journo Gwenyth Borgonia and Sheryn Mae Sinoy

ELECTION PROCEEDINGS IN BRGY. CAMPAGAO, BILAR, BOHOL

As of 8:54 a.m., the election proceedings in Barangay Campagao, Bilar, Bohol remained organized, with smooth and peaceful voting observed across precincts. | via Junior Journo Brigette Cones Dalagan

OUANO CALLS FOR PEACEFUL, ORDERLY ELECTIONS

Provincial Board Member Thadeo “Jonkie” Ouano shared a message to the people of Mandaue, expressing hope for a peaceful and orderly election. He encouraged voters to choose leaders who will genuinely serve the city.

Ouano was still in line at Don Gerardo Ll. Llamera National High School, patiently waiting for his turn to vote.

He is running for Mandaue City mayor under the One Mandaue slate. | via CAV

Cebu gubernatorial candidate Pamela Baricuatro casts her vote for the 2025 midterm elections on Monday morning, May 12, 2025.

“I’ve done my part for Cebu. I hope and pray that Cebu will do its part for me,” said Baricuatro in a post on Monday morning. | via EHP

FREE EGGS DISTRIBUTED TO QUIOT VOTERS

During the ongoing election process, voters in Barangay Quiot received free hard-boiled eggs outside polling stations. | Via Junior Journo Angel Rusiana

SCENES AT OPAO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Here’s the situation at Opao Elementary School, one of the polling centers in Mandaue City, as of 9:07 a.m. on Monday, May 12, 2025: queues of voters are waiting. | via UV Volunteer Jessa Bacus

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., joined by his mother Imelda, son Rep. Sandro, and sister Irene, cast their votes early at Mariano Marcos Memorial Elementary School in Batac City for the #Elections2025. Read more: http://snstr.co/kMA

SCENES AT CITY CENTRAL SCHOOL

As of 9:02 AM on Monday, May 12, 2025, voters are lining up at Cebu City Central School, one of the polling center in Cebu City. |via Junior Journo. Chabelle Intoma

Re-electionist Congresswoman Emmarie “Lolypop” Ouano-Dizon expressed hope that the people of Mandaue City will actively participate in the elections and exercise their right to vote.

She emphasized the importance of choosing the right leaders who can truly represent the voice of the people.

Ouano-Dizon is seeking another term as Mandaue City’s lone district representative and is running under the One Mandaue slate.

Ouano-Dizon was still in line, patiently waiting to cast her vote at Don Gerardo Ll. Llamera National High School. | via CAV

Here's the scene at Pajo Elementary School in Lapu-Lapu City as residents cast their votes for the 2025 midterm elections this Monday, May 12. | via FVQ

Cebu City Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia warns the public against a fake text blast promising P5,000. He calls it “black propaganda” and clarifies, “That’s not even my number!” Read more: http://snstr.co/kMB

Here is a quick tour inside the voting precint at Robinsons Galleria in Cebu City located on the fourth floor.

Aside from Robinsons Galleria Cebu, SM Consolacion also hosts the mall voting program in Central Visayas. | via CDF

EARLY START, MIXED RESULTS

Some senior citizens, Persons with Disabilities, and pregnant women found the new 5 a.m. early voting smooth and convenient, while others say it was slow and tiring. Read this article: http://snstr.co/kMC

BARANGAY QUIOT VOTING PROCESS

Scarlette Camalio, from the Barangay Quiot Rescuers Team, expressed that the voting process in Barangay Quiot was generally peaceful. However, she pointed out the need for additional wheelchairs at the polling area, as it is located on elevated ground.

Camalio emphasized that many senior citizens rely on wheelchairs to be able to reach the voting site and cast their votes comfortably and safely. | Via Junior Journo Angel Rusiana

JONAS CORTES WAITS IN LINE TO CAST VOTE

Mandaue City mayoral candidate Jonas Cortes was seen patiently waiting in line to cast his vote at Cabancalan 1 Elementary School, accompanied by his family. | via CAV

Despite her age, 90-year-old Celsa Encabo, a resident of Barangay Guadalupe, Cebu City, remains committed to participating in the electoral process, emphasizing the importance of voting for the nation's future.

Regular voting for the 2025 midterm elections begins Monday, May 12, 2025. | via EHP

FIRST-TIME VOTER URGES WISE VOTING IN BARANGAY QUIOT

Gerald Jumao-as, a first-time voter in Barangay Quiot, reminded fellow citizens to vote wisely. “We should vote right because we’re the ones who will benefit,” she said. Jumao-as encouraged voters to choose leaders who genuinely care for the community. | via Junior Journo Angel Rusiana

Voters continue to queue to cast their votes at Kamputhaw Elementary School in Cebu City as of 9:43 a.m. Monday, May 12, 2025. | via JPS

PADAYON ANG PAGDAGSA

Here is the current situation in Tisa National High School, one of the polling centers in Barangay Tisa, Cebu City, as of 9:40 a.m., Monday, May 12, 2025. | via JJL

MIKE RAMA CASTS HIS VOTE

Former Cebu City mayor Michael Rama, accompanied by his wife Malou and son, arrived at Guadalupe Elementary School just before 10 a.m. to cast his vote as regular voting for the 2025 midterm elections continues Monday, May 12, 2025. | via EHP

SCENES AT INAYAGAN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

As of 9:30 a.m., voters at Inayagan Elementary School, City of Naga, Cebu, were seen enduring the heat and cramped conditions due to limited space, as more people continue to arrive Monday morning, May 12, 2025. | via Junior Journo Gwenyth Borgonia and Sheryn Mae Sinoy

SCENE AT BARANGAY ZAMORA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Despite the heat and his physical challenges, a senior citizen made his way to Barangay Zamora Elementary School to cast his vote as of 10:03 a.m. | via Junior Journo Brigette Cones Dalagan

ESPARIS CASTS VOTE

Councilor Francis Esparis casted his vote early at Barangay Quiot, Quiot Elementary School and urged the public to “Go out and exercise your right to vote.” | via Junior Journo Angel Rusiana.

MACHINE GLITCH AT GUADALUPE PRECINCT

The insertion of official ballots at Precinct No. 490 inside Guadalupe Elementary School in Cebu City was temporarily halted for a few minutes after the Automated Counting Machine (ACM) reportedly encountered technical issues.

Former Cebu City mayor Michael Rama was in line to cast his vote when the glitch occurred during the regular voting for the 2025 midterm elections on Monday, May 12, 2025. | via EHP

SCENE AT CITY CENTRAL SCHOOL

As of 10:11 a.m. on Monday, May 12, 2025, voters—particularly senior citizens—were seen braving the heat while searching for their assigned precincts to cast their votes. | via Junior Journo Chabelle Intona

SCENES AT OPAO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

As of 10:15 a.m. Monday, May 12, 2025, voters continue to queue at Opao Elementary School in Mandaue City. | via Junior journo Jessa Bacus

BUSINESS AS USUAL

Vendors have taken advantage of the crowd flocking to Tisa National High School, one of the polling centers for today's midterm elections, May 12, 2025.

Among them is Kuya Alde, who began selling taho and candies as early as 5 a.m. to catch the early voting rush.

He told SunStar Cebu that he had already earned P1,200 from taho sales.

Kuya Alde also made sure to cast his vote earlier in the morning. | via JJL

SENIOR CITIZEN VOTERS SEEN AT POLLING CENTER IN THE CITY OF NAGA

Despite their age and physical disabilities, some senior citizens made their way to Inayagan Elementary School in the City of Naga to cast their votes, demonstrating their continued commitment to the democratic process. | via Junior Journos Gwenyth Borgonia and Sheryn Mae Sinoy

SCENES AT INAYAGAN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRECINCT

As of 10:30 a.m., the vote-counting machine at Inayagan Elementary School, Cluster Precinct 27 in the City of Naga, Cebu, had glitched four times, causing delays and concern among voters. | via Junior Journo Gwenyth Borgonia and Sheryn Mae Sinoy.

Nicole and Igor Nikolai cast their votes dressed in traditional attire at the Baguio SPED Center in Baguio City on Monday, May 12, 2025. | via PIA Baguio

VENDOR EARNS FROM EARLY SALES OUTSIDE CITY CENTRAL SCHOOL

As of 11:02 a.m., Rosita, a food vendor outside City Central School, had been selling since 1 a.m. and had earned P8,000 from her sales. She said she plans to vote in the afternoon. | via Junior Journo Chabelle Intona

Re-electionist Cebu City Councilor Joel Garganera shares that assisting his 90-year-old mother at the polling precinct in Tejero Elementary School let him cast his vote at the same time on Monday, May 12, 2025 —one of the benefits for those helping senior citizens or PWDs, as long as they’re assigned to the same precinct. | Photos from Joel Garganera/Facebook

Incumbent senator and reelectionist Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa has cast his vote at Apolinario Franco Sr. Elementary School in Barangay Bato, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur, on Monday morning, May 12, 2025. | via Kim Olano Yap and Office of Senator Dela Rosa via SunStar Davao

Vice President Sara Duterte flashed a heart sign with her hand, showing the indelible ink on her finger after casting her vote in the 2025 midterm elections. | via Justin Caite Antonio, SunStar Davao Intern

Situation at Bagong Silang Elementary School in Bliss, Barangay Pajac, Lapu-Lapu City as of 11 a.m., Monday, May 12, 2025, for the National and Local Elections.

As of 11 a.m., the polling center at Bagong Silang Elementary School has remained peaceful and orderly, with no untoward incidents reported, according to police personnel manning the area.

Outside the polling center, some voters were seen seeking shade from the intense heat.

Authorities and election officials are advising the public to take precautionary measures against the hot weather by staying hydrated, bringing umbrellas, and wearing light clothing while waiting to cast their votes. | via JGS

Lapu-Lapu City mayoral candidate Cristine Takahashi casts her vote for the 2025 midterm elections at Mactan Elementary School on Monday, May 12. | via DPC

Josefina Montes, 94, a mother of 14 and longtime resident of Kamputhaw, Cebu City, now lives in Consolacion. Despite the move, she remains a registered voter in Kamputhaw. On May 12, 2025, she returned to her old neighborhood to sell corn coffee, turmeric, salabat powder, and massage oil near Kamputhaw Elementary School, where she will also cast her vote. All her earnings for the day will go toward her grandchildren. She plans to vote once one of them arrives to watch over her goods. | via Juan Carlo de Vela

Senator and PDP–Laban president Robin Padilla cast his vote in the 2025 midterm elections.

“Napakasarap bumoto mga kababayan Para sa ating kinabukasan,” he captioned. | Photo from Robin Padilla/Facebook

The Police Regional Office-Central Visayas deployed a drone on Monday, May 12, 2025, to monitor various areas in Cebu City as residents cast their votes in the 2025 midterm elections. | via AYB

SCENES AT HILONGOS SOUTH CENTRAL SCHOOL

As of 11:52 AM, voters were not exposed to the heat while waiting in line. The process remains smooth and orderly, with free water to voters. | via Junior Journo Gab Masan and Jessele Pagal

NO UNTOWARD INCIDENTS SO FAR

As of 10:30 a.m. Monday, May 12, 2025, the Police Regional Office-Central Visayas (PRO 7) has not monitored any untoward incidents. PRO 7 Director Brigadier General Redrico Atienza Maranan assured the public that police forces are monitoring various areas in the region in real time.

He added that over 9,000 police personnel have been deployed across Central Visayas to help ensure peace and order during the 2025 midterm elections. Watch this interview. | via AYB

Cebu City mayoral candidate Michael Rama experienced more than 30 minutes of delay in his polling precinct on Monday morning, May 12, 2025, after the Automated Counting Machine (ACM) encountered an alleged paper jamming concern.

The issue on the ACM was resolved and resumed counting the ballots after 45 minutes of delay. | via EHP

After casting her vote at Mactan Elementary School in Lapu-Lapu City, mayoral candidate Paz Radaza told reporters that the process was swift and efficient.

She added that she felt more confident now compared to previous elections and will await the results. | via DPC

Police Regional Office-Central Visayas (PRO 7) Director Brigadier General Redrico Atienza Maranan, along with other police officials, personally inspected polling centers in Cebu City on Monday, May 12, 2025, as hundreds of voters flocked to cast their ballots. Maranan assured the public that police forces are monitoring various areas in the region in real time. | via AYB

ERWIN TULFO CASTS VOTE

Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas senatorial candidate and ACT-CIS Partylist Representative Erwin Tulfo casts his vote at Kamuning Elementary School on May 12, 2025. | Photo from Rep. Erwin Tulfo's office

Mandaue City mayoralty candidate Thadeo “Jonkie” Ouano and re-electionist Congresswoman Emmarie “Lolypop” Ouano-Dizon showed the indelible ink on their index fingers, signifying that they have successfully cast their votes.

Both voted at Don Gerardo Ll. Llamera National High School on the morning of May 12, 2025. | via CAV

Mandaue City mayoralty candidate Jonas Cortes and vice mayoralty candidate Glenn Bercede showed the indelible ink on their index fingers, signifying that they had successfully cast their votes.

Cortes voted at Cabancalan 1 Elementary School, while Bercede cast his vote at Banilad Elementary School on May 12, 2025. | via CAV

Incumbent Cebu City Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia arrives at the Kamputhaw Elementary School, Cebu City at 12:16 p.m. Monday, May 12, 2025, to cast his vote. | via JPS

Independent mayoralty candidate of Mandaue City, Gepind Requierme, showed the indelible ink on his index finger, signifying that he had cast his vote.

Requierme voted at Casili Elementary School on May 12, 2025. | via CAV

PAGDALA OG TUBIG, PAYONG

The emergency response team assigned at Tisa National High School in Barangay Tisa, Cebu City responded to a voter experiencing a stomachache on Monday morning, May 12, 2025.

Team leader Gwendyl Ciriaco said the voter had not eaten, which resulted in her stomachache.

Ciriaco urged voters to eat before going to the polling centers.

He also encouraged voters to bring water, umbrellas, and other protection from the heat. | via JJL

Cebu City mayoralty candidate and incumbent Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia lined up and cast his vote at Kamputhaw Elementary School in Cebu City on May 12, 2025. | via Juan Carlo de Vela

First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and her sons — Ilocos Norte 1st District Rep. Ferdinand Alexander Marcos, Joseph Simon, and William Vincent — cast their votes at Calayab Elementary School in Laoag City on Monday, May 12, 2025. | Photos courtesy of Leilanie Adriano via SunStar Davao

Some precincts at the Robinsons Galleria Cebu mall voting site experienced minor issues due to voters overshading or folding their ballots, Department of Education Supervisor Official (Deso) Churchita Padernal said on Monday, May 12, 2025.

According to Padernal, the issues were promptly addressed and resolved.

In one precinct, the automated counting machine (ACM) experienced a brief delay as it was being properly installed into the ballot box.

Padernal added that standby Deso technicians quickly responded to the situation. | via CDF

As of 12:40 p.m., Monday, May 12, 2025, fewer voters can be seen at the Robinsons Galleria Cebu, waiting to vote inside their respective precincts.

Department of Education Supervisor Official (Deso) Churchita Padernal assigned in Robinsons Galleria Cebu said to the media that around 600 out of 2,000 voters have cast their votes. | via CDF

Incumbent Cebu City Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia said in an interview on Monday, May 12, 2025, that the flow of the voting queues went smoothly.

When asked about the black propaganda allegedly posted online under his name, Garcia said that many scammers have been using his phone number.

He added that he would reach out to the National Bureau of Investigation to intervene in the matter. | via JPS

As of 12:45 p.m. Monday, May 12, 2025, at Naga Central Elementary School, while some staff were on their lunch break, voters were seen waiting and resting under the trees, taking shelter from the heat. | via Junior Journo Gwenyth Borgonia and Sheryn Mae Sinoy

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has recorded several violent incidents amid the ongoing 2025 national and local elections. Read the full story: http://snstr.co/kMD

Former President and incumbent Pampanga 2nd District Representative Glora Macapagal-Arroyo casts her vote at Lubao Central Elementary School, Lubao, Pampanga. | via Rep. Arroyo's Office

Incumbent Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia and her daughter, Carissa, the second nominee of Ako Bisaya Partylist, cast their votes at Lamak Elementary School in Barangay Mayana, Barili, southern Cebu Monday, May 12, 2025. | via Capitol PIO

Senatorial candidate Vicente Sotto III, his wife Helen Gamboa, and some family members cast their votes at the White Plains Village, Barangay White Plains, Quezon City on Monday noon, May 12, 2025. | via PNA

ILOILO CITY RESIDENTS CAST THEIR VOTES

Despite the intense morning heat, voters continued to arrive steadily at Jaro High School and other polling centers in Iloilo City for the May 12, 2025 midterm national and local elections.

Authorities, including the Iloilo City Police Office and medical teams, ensured a peaceful and orderly process with no reported incidents as of 11:30 a.m.

According to the Commission on Elections, over 330,000 registered voters in the city are expected to cast their ballots before polls close at 7 p.m. | via Leo Solinap

Voting continues at City Central Elementary School in Cebu City for the 2025 National and Local Elections on Monday, May 12, 2025. | via Juan Carlo de Vela

SCENES AT HILONGOS NATIONAL VOCATIONAL SCHOOL

As of 1:45 p.m. Monday, May 12, 2025, people have been slowly arriving in line to cast their vote. Voters were lining up inside a covered court, so they were not exposed to the heat. Election assistants were also present to properly assist the voters in order to have a smooth and peaceful voting experience. | via Junior Journo Gab Masan and Jessele Pagal

Senatorial candidate Luke Espiritu casts his vote in Pedro P. Cruz Elementary School in Makati for the 2025 midterm elections Monday, May 12, 2025. | via Luke Espiritu

Voters at the Subangdaku Elementary School in Mandaue City patiently wait in line under the scorching heat of the sun on Monday afternoon, May 12, 2025. | via EHP

Former Vice President Leni Robredo, who is running for mayor in Naga City, casts her vote at Naga City Science High School around 1 p.m. on Monday, May 12, 2025. | via PIA Bicol

Reelectionist Talisay City Mayor Gerald Anthony "Samsam" Gullas casts his vote in the 2025 midterm elections on Monday, May 12, 2025. | via Samsam Gullas Facebook

Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) at New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa City exercise their right to vote in the 2025 midterm elections on Monday, May 12, 2025. | via TPM

Voting delays have been reported in several clustered precincts at Mactan Elementary School, Lapu-Lapu City, including Cluster Precincts 157 and 160, where long lines of voters were observed on Monday afternoon, May 12, 2025.

According to a poll watcher of one of the affected precincts, issues began as early as 6 a.m. during the initial early voting period concerning the Automated Counting Machines.

Common problems cited include paper folds, unreadable ballots on the first scan, among others.

As a temporary remedy, poll workers have resorted to cleaning the scanners to address the issue.

Mactan Elementary School is one of the 38 identified polling centers in Lapu-Lapu City.

More details to follow. | via DPC

Former Cebu City mayor Tomas Osmeña, who is running as vice mayor in Cebu City, has cast his vote at Guadalupe Elementary School along with his wife, former city councilor Margot Osmeña, on Monday afternoon, May 12, 2025 | via EHP

The counting of ballots for local absentee voting (LAV) is ongoing at the Commission on Elections (Comelec) in Manila on Monday, May 12, 2025. | via Comelec

TRAFFIC ADVISORY

A portion of A. Soriano Avenue in Mandaue City, particularly the northbound lane fronting Mandaue City Sports Complex, will be closed at 5 p.m. on Monday, May 12, 2025, so supporters of political candidiates can witness and monitor through the LED wall the canvassing of votes.

F. E. Zuellig Avenue, S. B. Cabahug Extension, portion of Ouano Avenue and beside the tennis court will serve as parking spaces.

Half lane of S. B. Cabahug Street corner A. Del Rosario Street, F. S. Avanceña Street corner P. Burgos Street and F. E. Zuellig will also not be accessible starting at 5 PM.

The south-bound lane of A. Soriano Avenue will be used for northbound and southbound vehicles. Light vehicles on Ouano Avenue going to the north or Lapu-Lapu City can turn left to S. B. Cabahug Street. | via TEAM

Lapu-Lapu City mayoral candidate Cristine Takahashi cast her vote at Mactan Elementary School on Monday afternoon, May 12, 2025.

Takahashi was earlier seen lining up to vote, but due to the long queue, she decided to return in the afternoon. | via DPC

At 3:30 p.m. Monday, May 12, 2025, the Commission on Elections En Banc, sitting as the National Board of Canvassers, is now in session to oversee the canvassing of votes for Senators and Party-List in the 2025 National and Local Elections. | via Comelec

SCENES OUTSIDE BULACAO COMMUNITY SCHOOL

Sample ballots litter the ground outside the polling center in Bulacao Community School. | via Junior Journo Angel Rusiana

Mandaue City congressional candidate Atty. Regal Oliva, along with city councilor candidate Marco Sanchez, lined up at their precincts to cast their votes at Paknaan Elementary School on Monday, May 12, 2025. | via CAV

SCENES AT NAGA CENTRAL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

As of 3:51 p.m. Monday, May 12, 2025, more voters were seen arriving at Naga Central Elementary School as the heat began to ease, making it more comfortable to line up and cast their votes. | via Junior Journo Gwenyth Borgonia and Sheryn Mae Sinoy

Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Junard “Ahong” Chan and City Lone District Representative Cynthia “Cindi” King-Chan arrived at Pajo Elementary School on Monday, May 12, 2025, to cast their votes.

Running under the Team Kaabag slate, Chan is seeking the congressional seat, while his wife is campaigning for the city’s mayoral post. | via DPC

Re-electionist and former Cebu City North District councilor Niña Mabatid cast her vote on Monday afternoon, May 12, 2025, at Mabolo Elementary School. She was joined by her daughters, Nicole and Iah Gullas, wife of Talisay City Councilor Digul Gullas. | Contributed

Malasakit at Bayanihan Partylist first nominee Girlie Veloso cast her vote Monday afternoon, May 12, 2025, at Perrelos Elementary School in Carcar City. | Contributed photos

"WHAT WILL BE, WILL BE"

Lapu-Lapu City Lone District Representative and mayoral candidate Cynthia "Cindi" King-Chan cast her vote on the afternoon of Monday, May 12, 2025, at Pajo Elementary School.

Chan expressed gratitude for the peaceful conduct of the elections in the city and said she entrusted the outcome to the will of the people. | via DPC

Lapu-Lapu City Lone District Representative and mayoral candidate Cynthia "Cindi" King-Chan cast her vote on the afternoon of Monday, May 12, 2025, at Pajo Elementary School.

Chan expressed gratitude for the peaceful conduct of the elections in the city and said she entrusted the outcome to the will of the people. | via DPCPhoto by Denise Codis

Cebu City South District Representative Edu Rama and his wife, Jaja Chiongbian-Rama, cast their votes at Don Vicente Rama Memorial Elementary School Monday, May 12, 2025. | Contributed photos

Mandaue City mayoral candidate Jonkie Ouano filed a complaint against his opponent, dismissed Mandaue City mayor Jonas Cortes, over an alleged election violation.

Ouano’s camp submitted the complaint to the Commission on Elections (Comelec) after observing that during the opening of the polls on the morning of May 12, 2025, some of Cortes’ watchers were wearing an ID that displayed a name, photo, and ballot number. | via AYB

Congressional candidate Regal Oliva and her partner, Marco Sanchez, who is running for Mandaue City councilor, proudly showed the indelible ink on their index fingers after casting their votes at Paknaan Elementary School on May 12, 2025. | via CAV

Kabataan Partylist’s second nominee, Pao Echavez, has filed a formal complaint before the Commission on Elections (Comelec) in Central Visayas over a red-tagging incident that occurred on Election Day, Monday, May 12, 2025.

The complaint cited a violation of Comelec Resolution 1116, Section 2, in relation to Section 4, after a mock funeral setup was discovered in front of the old White Gold House along G. Gaisano Street, Barangay Carreta, Cebu City.

The installation reportedly started on Friday, May 9, and included a coffin displaying the names and photos of progressive party-list leaders with a message branding them as enemies of the state.

He noted that similar red-tagging incidents were reported in other parts of the country, suggesting a pattern of harassment targeting progressive groups.

Echavez is calling on Comelec and local authorities to investigate the incident. | via CDF

A familiar scene during every election unfolded outside Guadalupe Elementary School, as sample ballots, election paraphernalia, posters, and plastic bottles littered V. Rama Street on May 12, 2025, during the national and local elections. | via Juan Carlo de Vela

As of 6:15 p.m. only a few voters remained at Naga Central Elementary School, as the area had started to quiet down after a long day of voting. | via Junior Journo Gwenyth Borgonia and Sheryn Mae Sinoy

Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Junard "Ahong" Chan has cast his vote at Pajo Elementary School on the afternoon of Monday, May 12, 2025.

Now running for a congressional seat, Chan expressed a mix of nervousness and hope, saying he is leaving the outcome in the hands of the voters of Lapu-Lapu City. | via DPC

Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman George Garcia said in a press conference on Monday, May 12, 2025, that vote transmission will not begin before 7 p.m. on Monday, May 12, 2025, as the machines are programmed to transmit results at exactly 7 p.m.

Voting officially closed at Cebu City Central School at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, May 12, 2025. | via CDF

Voting is still ongoing in one of the precincts at Cebu City Central School past 7 p.m. on Monday, May 12, 2025. | via CDF

SHORTAGE OF BALLOTS AT LAPU PRECINCT

A clustered precint at Gun-ob Elementary School in Lapu-Lapu City has experienced a shortage of ballots during the 2025 national and local elections Monday evening, May 12, leaving voters in a limbo.

Allen, a voter since 2016 who served as a member of the electoral board in 2022 and 2023, said this is the first time she has experienced it.

Meanwhile, another voter who had been in the area since 2 p.m. said they were promised that additional ballots would arrive.

She said a member of the electoral board explained that Clustered Precinct No. 129 had only 500 ballots, which were allegedly meant to serve 700 voters.

As of 7:10 p.m., some of the voters were accommodated and were casting their votes at another clustered precinct.

SunStar Cebu is reaching out to the Commission on Elections Lapu-Lapu City office for comment. | via DPC

Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Junard “Ahong” Chan successfully cast his vote at Pajo Elementary School on the afternoon of Monday, May 12, 2025.

Now vying for a congressional seat, Chan shared a mix of nervousness and optimism, saying he is entrusting the outcome to the voters of Lapu-Lapu City. | via DPC