Low turnout of registrants for barangay, SK polls

MANILA, Philippines - Only 600,000 of the targeted six million new voters had registered for the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections from July 15 to 20.

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) said 313,316 of the new voters are aged 15 to 17 while 353,432 are 18 years old and above.

Comelec Chairman Andres Bautista admitted that the poll body is having difficulty encouraging people to register because many are not enthusiastic about the barangay elections.

“Many of them do not really know the candidates,” Bautista said.

He said election officers have been authorized to set up registration centers outside Comelec offices, including malls, to entice more people to register.

Bautista said election officers should come out with posters regarding satellite registration centers.

Register early

He advised new voters to register early to avoid long lines.

“Don’t wait for the deadline. Go to the office of the election officer so you can participate in the barangay and SK polls,” Bautista said.

He said those who failed to have their biometrics taken could also register.

The registration period is until July 30, including Saturdays, Sundays and holidays.