The process of securing a voter’s record or a replacement for a lost voter’s ID in the Philippines is governed by the rules and regulations set forth by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC). While the issuance of the traditional plastic Voter’s ID card has been suspended in favor of the National ID (PhilID), voters can still obtain an official Voter’s Certificate, which serves as a valid substitute and legal proof of registration.
The following guide outlines the legal and procedural framework for these requests under current Philippine laws.
1. The Legal Basis for Voter Records
Under Republic Act No. 8189 (The Voter's Registration Act of 1996), the COMELEC is mandated to maintain a permanent list of voters. Any registered voter has the right to access their own record and request official certification of their registration status.
The Shift from Voter ID to Voter Certificate
It is important to note that COMELEC stopped printing plastic Voter ID cards in 2017. This was done to avoid duplication with the Philippine Identification System (PhilSys). Consequently:
- You cannot request a new or "copy" of the old plastic ID.
- The Voter’s Certificate is the primary legal document now issued to prove registration.
- Pursuant to Republic Act No. 11261 (First Time Jobseekers Assistance Act), this certificate is free for first-time job seekers.
2. Where to File the Request
Depending on your location and the type of record needed, you may file your request at:
- Local Office of the Election Officer (OEO): The COMELEC office in the city or municipality where you are registered.
- COMELEC Main Office (Intramuros): For those needing records from the National Central File.
- Satellite Registration Sites: During active registration periods, some malls or barangay centers may process requests.
3. Requirements for the Request
To ensure the security of the National List of Registered Voters, the COMELEC requires the following:
- Valid Government-Issued ID: (e.g., Passport, Driver’s License, UMID, or National ID).
- Photocopy of the ID: To be attached to the application form.
- Voter’s Certificate Application Form: Available at the OEO.
- Authorization Letter & Representative's ID: If the requestor cannot appear in person (only allowed for immediate family members in certain jurisdictions).
- Affidavit of Loss: Only required if you are specifically trying to document the loss of an old ID for other legal purposes.
4. Step-by-Step Procedure
Step A: Personal Appearance
Proceed to the OEO of the city or municipality where you are registered. While some records are centralized, the local office is the fastest route for verification.
Step B: Verification
Approach the counter and request a search of the Election Day Computerized Voters List (EDCVL). The staff will verify if your record is "Active."
Note: If you failed to vote in two consecutive regular elections, your record may be deactivated, and you will need to apply for reactivation instead of a certificate.
Step C: Payment of Fees
If your record is active, you must pay the certification fee.
- Standard Fee: Usually ₱75.00 (this may vary slightly based on local ordinances or updated COMELEC resolutions).
- Payment Location: Usually paid at the City/Municipal Treasurer’s Office or a designated window within the OEO.
- Exemptions: Senior Citizens, PWDs, and First-Time Jobseekers (with a Barangay Certification) are often exempt from this fee.
Step D: Issuance
Present your Official Receipt (OR) to the Election Officer. The Voter’s Certificate—printed on COMELEC security paper—will be issued, signed, and dry-sealed.
5. Summary Table: Document Comparison
| Document | Status | Legal Utility |
|---|---|---|
| Voter's ID (Plastic) | Discontinued | Valid if already held; not being replaced. |
| Voter’s Certificate | Active/Available | Primary proof of registration; valid for all legal intents. |
| Certified Voter's Record | Available | Detailed history of voting; usually for court or legal cases. |
6. Special Cases
Requesting from Overseas
For Overseas Filipino Voters (OFVs), requests should be coordinated through the Office for Overseas Voting (OFOV) in Manila or the nearest Philippine Embassy/Consulate.
Digital Alternatives
COMELEC has recently introduced the Mobile Registration Form App and online portals for status verification. However, for a certified physical copy, a physical visit or authorized representative is still generally required to ensure the integrity of the dry seal.
Would you like me to draft a formal Authorization Letter or an Affidavit of Loss that you can use for this request?