NYC joins call for youth voters registration

The National Youth Commission yesterday added its voice to the national clamor for a special registration day for the estimated four million voters who failed to register to vote last year.

"Give them the chance to vote! Let them speak through the ballots!" This was the call issued yesterday by the NYC to the Commission on Elections.

The youth body also urged all government agencies to exhaust all means to effect a special registration for more than four million potential first time voters who failed to register last year.

"We heard them at EDSA, they compose the bulk of People Power II. Now, let us give them the chance to exercise their right of suffrage," lawyer Mabel Villarica Mamba, NYC chairperson and chief executive officer, said.

Mamba stressed that the Constitution mandates the vital role of the youth in nation-building and encourages the State to inculcate in them the values of patriotism and nationalism.

She said the Constitution encourages young leaders to be involved in civic affairs.

"Providing for a special registration period for the youth fulfills that State policy," Mamba remarked, adding that nobody should impede in the fulfillment of the provisions of the basic law of the land.

The Commission on Elections earlier said the country’s election laws prohibit voter registration 120 days before any national or local elections. The Comelec also cited time constraints and lack of budget to hold the special registration period.

President Arroyo, however, vowed to provide a budget from her social funds to finance the special list-up activity. She has also called Congress to a special session to pass an amendment to the elections laws to facilitate the special voter registration.

Lawyer Mamba said it is the responsibility of the NYC to ensure the protection, development and participation of the youth to deepen their empowerment, patriotism and civic responsibility.

These are part of the functions and objectives of the National Youth Commission, Mamba concluded.