The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) lauds the move of the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) to help ensure voting accessibility and participation of vulnerable groups in the incoming national elections through Resolution No. 10761. The issuance states that Emergency Accessible Polling Places (EAPPs) will be established in voting centers to cater to persons with disabilities, senior citizens, and heavily-pregnant women.

The EAPP refers to a room or makeshift polling place that will be established on the ground floor of voting stations where the persons with disabilities, senior citizens, and heavily-pregnant women may vote on Election Day. It can also be put outside but still close to the voting center. According to COMELEC, there will be one EAPP in areas with 1-7 barangays; two for those 8-14 barangays; and, three for those with 15 and above barangays.

CHR commends this effort of COMELEC to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable individuals. This helps prevent risks and discomforts that may impede them from exercising their right to vote. With a projected voter turnout of 66.9 million for the 2022 polls, it is imperative that measures be set in place to maintain order and safety while also ensuring the welfare of vulnerable sectors.

It is also noteworthy that COMELEC will ensure that voting procedures, including the facilities and materials, are appropriate, accessible, user-friendly, and easy to understand. Reasonable accommodation shall also be granted to the aforementioned sectors to enable them to fully exercise their right to vote.

CHR recognizes these inclusive measures by COMELEC. They address challenges in accessibility and mobility, which beset many vulnerable groups. Everyone is entitled to participate in the democratic process without discrimination and barriers. This helps ensure broad participation, which is among the crucial standards of a free and genuine elections. ###