Registration of voters with disability starts tomorrow

Manila, Philippines - The Commission on Elections (Comelec) yesterday asked voters with disability to register starting tomorrow until July 23 so they may be properly assisted in voting precincts in the 2013 midterm elections.

“People with disability (PWD) are encouraged to go out and register or update their registration records at the Office of the Comelec Election Officer in the city or municipality where they reside. During the week, PWDs will be given priority and the said offices will also be made accessible to them,” the Comelec said.

The Comelec has declared July 18 to 23 “PWD National Registration Week” in commemoration of the National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week.

Voters with disabilities may register at SM Southmall in Las Piñas and SM Valenzuela on July 21, SM Marikina on July 22, SM San Lazaro and SM North EDSA on July 23, and SM Manila on July 22 and 23.

Those who fail to register this week can still sign up during the regular registration period in Comelec offices until Oct. 31, 2012.

Under Comelec Resolution No. 9220, PWDs will have to update their voter’s registration records if they have not indicated their disability in the past election and specified the kind of assistance they need.

Recognized as PWDs are those who have long-term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairments.

Earlier, the Comelec said around two million new voters will be added to the poll body’s list before the 2013 midterm elections.