As the 2025 Philippine midterm elections approach, millions of citizens are preparing to head to the polls. Whether you’re casting your vote for the first time or you’re a seasoned participant, it’s essential to stay informed and ready. This updated voter’s guide will walk you through everything you need to know to confidently vote on May 12, 2025.
Key Positions You Can Vote For
During this national and local election, registered Filipino voters can select candidates for the following positions:
- 12 Senators
- 1 Member of the House of Representatives
- 1 Provincial Governor and Vice-Governor
- Member of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (Provincial Board)
- 1 Mayor and Vice Mayor
- Member of the Sangguniang Panlungsod (City or Municipal Council)
- 1 Party-list Group
Make sure to review your preferred candidates beforehand to avoid confusion on election day.
Find Your Voting Precinct Online
If you’re unsure where you’re registered or what your precinct number is, you can verify your details by visiting the official COMELEC Precinct Finder at:
👉 https://precinctfinder.comelec.gov.ph/voter_precinct
Simply enter your full name, birthdate, and place of registration to view your voter information.
Voting Schedule and Special Hours
📅 Election Day: May 12, 2025
🕔 5:00 AM to 7:00 AM – Priority voting hours for:
- Senior Citizens
- Persons with Disabilities (PWDs)
- Pregnant Women
🕖 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM – Regular voting hours for the general public
Arrive early to avoid long queues, especially in densely populated areas.
Step-by-Step Voting Procedure
- Check in with the Electoral Board (EB) by providing your name, precinct, and sequence number.
- The EB will locate your name on the Election Day Computerized Voters List (EDCVL) and check your fingers for ink marks.
- Receive your ballot, secrecy folder, and marking pen.
- Proceed to your voting area and shade the circle beside your chosen candidates’ names.
- Insert your completed ballot into the Automated Counting Machine (ACM).
- View your ballot image on screen, then check your voter receipt for accuracy.
- Drop your receipt into the assigned box.
- Return your folder and pen to the EB.
- Get your right index finger marked with indelible ink before leaving.
✅ Dos for a Smooth Voting Experience
- ✔️ Wear light, comfortable clothing – some lines can be long
- ✔️ Stay hydrated – bring a reusable water bottle
- ✔️ Bring a prepared “kodigo” or cheat sheet for your candidates
- ✔️ Shade your ballot completely and properly
- ✔️ Be respectful and follow election protocols inside the polling center
❌ Don’ts Inside the Voting Precinct
- ❌ Avoid overvoting – choose only the allowed number of candidates
- ❌ No selfies or any photo-taking inside the precinct
- ❌ Don’t photograph your ballot or receipt
- ❌ Do not take home the ballot secrecy folder, receipt, or pen
Final Tips
Plan ahead, come prepared, and be patient. Voting is both a right and a responsibility — and your participation helps shape the future of your community and country.