Comelec: Overseas voter registration halted in Israel, Iran

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Wednesday announced the suspension of overseas voter registration in Israel and Iran amid the escalation tensions in the Middle East.

In an advisory, the poll body said consular services and activities for overseas registration will be temporarily suspended in Israel starting March 4 until Saturday, March 7, 2026 and in Iran until further notice.

Overseas voter registration activities in other Middle Eastern countries will still continue.

“The Comelec once again strongly advises our fellow Filipinos in the Middle East to remain vigilant and stay informed about the situation in their respective regions,” the Comelec said.

“Be cautious of false or misleading information and rely only on credible sources. Pay close attention to the notices and advisories issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), as well as the Philippine Embassy or Consulate, and do not hesitate to contact helplines when in distressed,” it added.

The overseas voter registration for the 2028 national elections resumed on December 1, 2025 and will run until September 30, 2027.

Tensions in the Middle East escalated over the weekend following joint military operations launched by the United States and Israel against Iran.

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. said more than 1,000 Filipinos requested repatriation amid the conflict in the Middle East.

Marcos also urged all parties involved in the Middle East tensions to exercise restraint as he expressed hope for a swift ceasefire to end the hostilities.

Filipinos in the affected areas and in need of help may contact the following Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) emergency hotlines:

• Metro Manila: 1348
• Regional: 02-1348
• Via Viber: +63-915-079-5005 (Globe), +63-969-169-7068 (Smart), +63-966-473-9543 (Globe).

— JMA, GMA Integrated News