By CESAR JOLITO III
Despite the Christmas holiday break, the Commission on Elections in the Negros Island Region (Comelec-NIR) reported a steady influx of new voters in Negros Occidental, with 889 residents completing voter registration during the four-day period.
Comelec data showed that from December 22 to 23 and from December 26 to 27, women outnumbered men among the new registrants, with 489 female and 400 male voters added to the rolls during the reporting week.
Officials said the turnout highlights sustained public interest in electoral participation even during the traditionally slow holiday period.
The Lone Legislative District of Bacolod City recorded the highest number of new registrants, with 245 individuals signing up — 106 men and 139 women.
Next in rank was the 5th Legislative District with 158 new voters (71 males, 87 females), followed by the 6th Legislative District with 128 registrants (53 males, 75 females).
Comelec-NIR attributed the strong showing to heightened voter awareness and accessible registration sites within the city.
In the 1st Legislative District, a total of 184 voters registered, led by San Carlos City with 140 new voters, accounting for the bulk of the district’s turnout.
The 3rd Legislative District recorded 72 new registrants, with the cities of Silay, Victorias and Talisay as well as E.B. Magalona and Murcia, all contributing double-digit figures.
Meanwhile, the 4th Legislative District logged 53 new voters, with Bago City posting the highest number at 29.
The 2nd Legislative District posted the lowest turnout for the week, with 49 new registrants, mainly from Cadiz City and Manapla.
Register Anywhere Program
Comelec also reported no registrants under the Register Anywhere Program in Bacolod City during the covered period.
Officials clarified that the program remains available in designated locations across the region for qualified voters who wish to register outside their home precincts.
Comelec officials welcomed the holiday-week turnout, noting that voter registration remains a crucial step in strengthening democratic participation ahead of future electoral exercises.
The poll body continues to encourage eligible Filipinos, particularly first-time voters and those with updated records, to take advantage of the ongoing registration opportunities as preparations for upcoming elections continue./CJ, WDJ