1.3M Filipinos Register Ahead of Elections

Photo courtesy of Philstar

Over 1.35 million Filipinos have registered for the upcoming barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections, as reported by the Commission on Elections (Comelec). Registrations were recorded from October 20, 2025, to January 18, 2026, with 718,457 female and 637,953 male applicants participating. The highest number of registrants came from Calabarzon, reaching 271,033.

This surge in voter registration is part of the preparation for the 2026 barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections. Comelec has made concerted efforts to ensure accessible registration across the country with satellite sites available. The process allows individuals to register until May 18, providing ample time for citizens to participate.

Experts see this uptick in registration as a positive indicator of civic engagement among the populace. However, some regions like the Cordillera Autonomous Region, Mimaropa, and Western Visayas have recorded lower numbers, suggesting possible logistical or outreach challenges. The Sangguniang Kabataan elections alone have attracted 327,575 registrants, while barangay poll registrants reached 1,028,835.

Looking forward, Comelec plans to enhance registration drives to maximize voter turnout before the deadline. Regional offices continue to operate six days a week, indicating a robust effort to include more voters. This initiative is crucial for strengthening democratic participation in the forthcoming elections, reported Philstar.

Key Takeaways

• Over 1.35 million voters registered for the 2026 BSKE elections.

• Calabarzon leads with the highest number of registrants.

• Registration remains open until May 18, with regional sites operating Monday to Saturday.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now from Philstar 2026-01-20