Private school teachers, gov’t employees may serve as BEIs

In the next elections, private school teachers and national government employees can serve as Board of Election Inspectors (BEIs).

In a resolution, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) designated private school teachers and national government employees as “qualified substitutes” for those disqualified or unable to serve as members of the electoral board.

The Comelec said the election officer shall appoint a substitute who is quali- fied, willing and available in case a member of the electoral board is disqualified.

“If the designation of a public school teacher is no longer feasible, qualified substitutes under the rules may be appointed,” the Comelec said.

In case there are not enough public school teachers who are qualified and willing, the Comelec said private school teachers must be given first preference as substitute.

Public school teachers whose place of employment is within the vicinity of the voting center may be appointed as members of the electoral board.

High school or college teachers who have previously served as members of the electoral board may also be designated as substitute BEIs.

According to the Comelec, the highest ranking private school official shall be required to submit a certified list of teachers who are qualified and willing to render election-related services. –