'Lack of time and information':Overseas Filipinos in Australia voice concerns over low voter turnout

Commission on Election Chairman George Erwin Garcia explained that the new online voting system was designed to increase voter participation among Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). However, despite efforts to facilitate online voting, the turnout in Australia remained alarmingly low.

Out of more than 19,000 registered voters, only a little over 3,000 participated.
Raul Diche of Bayan Australia believes that the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) was not adequately prepared for the implementation of the online voting system, which led to many voters being unable to participate.
According to Ness Gavanzo from Gabriela and secretary of the Welfare Mission for Migrants, voters may have lost enthusiasm due to the perceived lack of positive changes in the Philippines and their busy lives abroad.

Philippine midterm elections 2025: Peaceful despite minor glitches says COMELEC

Voter support boosted as internet voting debuts for overseas Filipinos

📢 Where to Catch SBS Filipino

🔊 On Air – Tune in to SBS Filipino on radio stations across Australia and website live stream, and TV Channel 302 from 10 AM to 11 AM AEST daily.

📲 Catch up episodes and stories – Visit sbs.com.au/filipino or stream on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Youtube Podcasts, and SBS Audio app.

📣 Follow Us on Social Media – Stay updated by following us on Facebook and Instagram.