MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Thursday called on overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to take part in shaping the country’s future by voting online in the 2025 midterm elections, saying the new system offers convenience and accessibility to Filipinos abroad.

In a video message, Marcos assured Filipinos overseas that the Commission on Elections’ (Comelec) online voting system for Halalan 2025 would enable them to cast their votes “anytime, anywhere”—eliminating the need to line up or travel to polling stations.

“Tuloy-tuloy po ang overseas voting para sa Halalan 2025. Ito po ang inyong pagkakataon na makilahok sa kinabukasan ng ating bayan,” Marcos said.

The President emphasized the role of digital innovation in expanding voter participation, particularly among millions of Filipinos residing and working outside the country.

“Ngayon mas madali na ang pagboto kahit nasaan kayo sa mundo. Hindi na kailangan pumila o bumiyahe,” he said. “Sa pamamagitan ng online voting, maipapahayag ninyo ang inyong boses nang mabilis, ligtas, at maayos.”

Marcos also reminded voters to choose leaders who demonstrate integrity, competence, and compassion.

“Gamitin natin ang karapatang ito. Piliin natin ang kandidatong may malasakit, kakayahan, at may paninindigan. Sa tamang pagpili, sama-sama natin bubuuin ang Bagong Pilipinas,” he said.

According to the Comelec, pre-enrollment for online voting began on March 20 through the COMELEC Voting Portal. The official voting period for Filipinos overseas will run from April 13 to May 12, 2025. Voting will close at 7:00 p.m. (Philippine Standard Time) on May 12.

To encourage voter participation, Marcos earlier issued Proclamation No. 878, declaring May 12, 2025, a special non-working holiday in connection with the national and local elections.