By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

The Commission on Elections in Western Visayas (Comelec-6) said its voter registration campaign kicked off with a promising start, registering approximately 21,000 applicants in the first two weeks.

“We are encouraged by the initial turnout, and we anticipate further increases as there is ample time remaining. The figures are promising,” Comelec-6 Regional Director Atty. Dennis Ausan said during the Voter Education and Registration Fair at a mall in Bacolod City yesterday.

Ausan emphasized the need for intensified awareness campaigns to encourage more people to register.

However, he mentioned that the Comelec hasn’t set a specific target for new voter registrants.

Ausan said the Comelec national office recorded an additional three million voters for the 2025 midterm polls.

He further clarified that the establishment of satellite registration centers is contingent upon the discretion of local election officers in specific regions.

Ausan pointed out that satellite registration venues are strategically placed in malls and schools to engage the youth demographic more effectively.

“We make efforts to reach remote barangays to ensure accessibility for voters,” Ausan said.

The regional director said that house-to-house registration poses logistical challenges due to equipment requirements.

Hence, they primarily conduct registrations at barangay halls, ensuring convenience for residents.

Ausan urged residents not to procrastinate, but utilize registration centers instead.

“Time is on our side. Let’s make the most of it,” he stressed.

Ausan also assured that Comelec will extend its services even on Saturdays and holidays, catering to the needs of working individuals and students./DGB, WDJ