ILOILO City – With the certified list of voters already posted at polling centers, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) here is urging registered voters to verify their names and precinct information as early as possible to avoid confusion and delays on election day, May 12.
The advisory comes two weeks after Comelec began posting the certified voters list in designated polling centers, including public schools and malls throughout the city.
“The purpose is to help voters know their exact polling place and precinct number ahead of time so they don’t waste time searching or risk missing their turn on election day,” said Jonathan Sayno, Assistant Officer II of Comelec-Iloilo City.
Sayno explained that early verification allows voters to report issues, such as missing names, to Comelec’s local office.
If a voter’s name is not on the list, Comelec will check its database. If the name is found, the list will be updated accordingly. However, if the name is not in the database and no proof of registration can be presented, Comelec cannot include it.
“If your name is not on the list, it means you’re not a registered voter. But if you claim you are and believe there’s an error, you still have time to visit Comelec and verify,” Sayno said.
Iloilo City has a total of 330,629 registered voters, and Comelec expects about 85 percent voter turnout for the midterm polls.
Here’s the breakdown of registered voters per district:
* City Proper – 45,069
* Arevalo – 35,850
* Jaro – 90,897
* La Paz – 38,251
* Lapuz – 24,401
* Mandurriao – 40,109
* Molo – 56,044
Polling centers inspected
As part of preparations, Comelec inspected all 66 polling centers in Iloilo City last April 2 to assess their readiness. Of these, 62 are public schools and four are malls, which will serve as voting centers for the first time.
“We’re checking for security of election paraphernalia and ballots, the presence of sufficient electricity, and accessible holding areas. Polling places must not be located on upper floors to accommodate senior citizens and persons with disabilities,” Sayno said.
Most sites were deemed ready, though some still need additional lighting to improve visibility. Comelec will also hold briefing sessions for teachers serving as electoral board members on site arrangements and procedures.
Voting in malls
For the first time, four malls will be used as polling places in the city. According to City Election Officer Atty. Pinky Jevini Tentativa, this move aims to ease congestion in schools and offer a more convenient voting environment.
“All registered voters from approved barangays will cast their votes at their assigned mall polling center,” Tentativa said.
Below are the malls and the barangays they will serve:
* SM City Iloilo (Mandurriao): Barangay Buhang Taft North – Precincts 0816A to 0822B
* Robinsons Place Iloilo (City Proper): Roxas Village, Magsaysay, Kauswagan, Osmeña, and San Jose – Selected precincts
* Robinsons Place Jaro: Barangay San Vicente, Jaro – Precincts 0502A to 0506PI
* Festive Walk Mall Iloilo (Mandurriao): Barangay Airport – Precincts 0783A to 0793A
Comelec reminds all voters to check their names at their designated centers or visit the local Comelec office to ensure a smooth and hassle-free voting experience./PN
