Comelec sets longer voter registration hours starting Aug. 23

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 19)— The Commission on Elections will implement longer voter registration hours starting on Aug. 23.

In an advisory on Thursday, the poll body announced a new schedule for enlistment: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. from Mondays to Fridays, and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and holidays.

The Comelec earlier rejected calls to extend the voter registration period beyond Sept. 30, saying such a move may result in delays in the preparations for the 2022 national elections.

Instead, the commission had said it will make other modifications to accommodate those who want to cast their vote in next year’s polls.

Several groups and lawmakers previously appealed for Comelec to extend the deadline for registration, as some areas in the country halted processing due to COVID-19 quarantine restrictions.

Voter registration can only be conducted in areas under general community quarantine and modified GCQ.