The Commission on Elections registered 77 new voters during a special satellite registration at the Romblon District Jail on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, extending voter access to persons deprived of liberty and jail personnel.

According to Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, the newly registered voters included 74 persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) and three jail personnel.

The registration was conducted in coordination with jail authorities led by Acting Jail Warden Emely Mallen and was carried out inside the facility in an orderly and secure manner.

Information Officer Joefrie Anglo said the activity forms part of COMELEC’s efforts to expand voter registration access to marginalized and hard-to-reach sectors, including those inside custodial facilities.

“Every eligible voter deserves to be heard — not defined by circumstance, but empowered by their right to choose. Even behind bars, their voice matters, and their future still has a place in our democracy,” Anglo said.

He added that the initiative also helped boost the morale of PDLs by reminding them that they remain part of society despite their situation.

“This reminds them that they remain part of society and still have a voice in the country’s future,” he said.

BJMP MIMAROPA also expressed support for COMELEC programs, saying civic participation plays an important role in the rehabilitation and reintegration of PDLs into society.