Comelec issues guidelines for local, foreign election observers

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has issued guidelines for the accreditation of domestic and foreign poll observers for the national and local elections on May 13.

Comelec Resolution No. 10508 states that election observers and monitors are persons chosen to formally observe or monitor the conduct of elections.

These observers will have full access to all stages of the electoral process, as well as all persons concerned with electoral processes, including electoral officials, members of legislative bodies, government officials, security officials, all political parties, organizations, and persons, and members of the media.

“Election observation and monitoring play an important role in providing accurate and impartial assessments about the conduct of the elections and has the potential to enhance the integrity of the electoral process,” the resolution read.

Interested applicants may submit their accomplished application form, two 1.5” x 1.5” pictures, a Terms of Reference or similar document explaining the purposes of the elections observation mission, and if foreign, an endorsement issued by the ambassador or consul of the applicant’s home country until March 15.

Application forms are available at the Comelec Education and Information Department (EID), the Office of the Regional Election Directors, the Officer of the Provincial Elections Supervisors, and at Comelec’s official website at http://www.comelec.gov.ph.

Applicants, who are based in the National Capital Region, may submit their documents at the Comelec EID. Those who live in the provinces may submit their requirements to the Office of the Regional Election Directors.

To avoid conflict of interest, interested applicants must not be affiliated with any political or economic groups.

The Commission en Banc will be reviewing the applications and will approve or reject a candidate within seven days of application.