SATELLITE REGISTRATIONS SUSPENDED

Comelec shortens voter registration hours due to COVID-19 cases

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) will shorten voter registration by two hours starting Monday, March 22 until Sunday, April 4 amid rising coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases.

According to the Comelec, the voter registration hours will be from Mondays to Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. while the issuance of voter certification will be until 5 p.m.

Comelec said it will conduct disinfection operations on Friday.

However, should the local government declare a disinfection day other than Friday, Comelec said the office of the election officer will be closed on the declared day as well as Friday.

Meanwhile, it also suspended satellite registration in barangay halls, daycare centers, covered courts, and other satellite offices nationwide until further notice.

Comelec reiterated that health and safety protocols will be strictly implemented.

“Wearing of face mask and face shield is mandatory. To minimize physical contact, the accomplishment of the application form and setting of appointment via irehistro.comelec.gov.ph is encouraged,” Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez said in a statement.

Jimenez advised those with appointments on days when voter registration is no longer conducted to contact their OEO for instructions or rebooking. — DVM, GMA News