Election 2025: A voter's guide for May 12

The 2025 Philippine elections is just around the corner. Whether you're a first-time voter or a regular participant, here's a voter's guide for May 12.

Basic information to know

For the upcoming local and national elections, registered Filipino voters may select 12 senators, one member of the House of Representatives, one provincial governor, one provincial vice-governor, one member of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, one mayor, one vice mayor, one member of the Sangguniang Panlungsod, and one party list.

Precinct finder

If you're unsure about your precinct number, you may head on to https://precinctfinder.comelec.gov.ph/voter_precinct and enter your full name, date of birth, and place of registration to retrieve your voter's information.

Schedule of elections

On May 12, early voting hours for senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and pregnant women will be from 5 a.m. to 7 a.m., while regular voting will begin at 7 a.m. and end at 7 p.m.

Step-by-step voting process

1. Approach the electoral board (EB) and give your name, precinct number, and sequence number.
2. The EB will verify your name on the Election Day Computerized Voters List (EDCVL) and check your fingernail for indelible ink.
3. Receive your ballot, secrecy folder, and marking pen, then proceed to the voting area.
4. Shade the circle beside your chosen candidate's name using the provided pen.
5. Feed your completed ballot into the automated counting machine (ACM). Wait for the voter receipt and confirm your ballot image on the screen.
6. Check your voter receipt and drop it into the designated box.
7. Return the ballot secrecy folder and pen.
8. Before leaving, have your right index finger marked with indelible ink.

What to do:

• Wear comfortable clothes in case the voting line in your precinct takes a long time
• Bring water to hydrate
• Prepare your kodigo or voting cheat sheet
• Shade ballots properly
• Observe proper conduct and behavior inside the polling precinct

What not to do:

• Do not overvote
• Do not take selfies or photos inside the precinct
• Do not take photos of your ballot
• Do not take the voter's receipt, marking pen, or ballot secrecy folder

Stay up-to-date with this year's elections through GMA News Online's Eleksyon 2025 site. —MGP, GMA Integrated News

For more Eleksyon 2025 related content and updates, visit GMA News Online's Eleksyon 2025 microsite.