By Rowena T. Cruz PDLs at Lucena City District Jail cast their votes on May 12, 2025, demonstrating the Comelec's commitment to inclusiv...
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| PDLs at Lucena City District Jail cast their votes on May 12, 2025, demonstrating the Comelec's commitment to inclusive elections. (Bjmp Lucena Maledorm) |
LUCENA CITY, Quezon – Persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) whose cases have not yet reached final judgment voted Monday, May 12, 2025, at Lucena City District Jail Male Dormitory, exercising their constitutional right to vote in today's 2025 elections. This action affirms the Comelec's commitment to ensuring voter participation for all eligible Filipinos, regardless of circumstance, with the voting process conducted in accordance with existing laws and regulations regarding PDL suffrage.
Acting Warden JSINSP Richard S. Benedicto, in collaboration with the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), established a special polling precinct inside the jail. To maintain order and ensure safety, the voting process was conducted in phases, categorized by security levels. Minimum and medium security inmates voted first, followed by those under maximum security protocols.
The Comelec's nationwide campaign for the 2025 elections, themed "Makiisa, Makibahagi, Makilahok sa May 12, 2025 National and Local Elections: Makabagong Halalan para sa Makabagong Pilipino," was observed. This exercise allowed PDLs to actively participate in shaping the country's future, a right made possible through the collaborative efforts of the BJMP and the Comelec, as outlined in Comelec Resolution No. 10768.
"The participation of PDLs in this election highlights the fundamental inclusivity of our democratic system," stated JSINSP Benedicto. "Their votes carry the same weight as any other Filipino citizen, and we are dedicated to upholding their fundamental rights." This statement underscores the principle of equal suffrage enshrined in the Philippine Constitution.
The Comelec has implemented specific guidelines to ensure that eligible PDLs across the Philippines are not disenfranchised. This includes the establishment of special registration procedures and polling precincts within detention facilities. These guidelines are designed to streamline the voting process for PDLs while maintaining the integrity of the elections.
Over 31,000 PDLs nationwide voted, reinforcing that "behind bars, not beyond rights — every vote still counts." The right to vote remains unless a person is convicted of a disqualifying crime, as affirmed by the Comelec: "In upholding Resolution No. 9371, the Supreme Court affirmed COMELEC’s commitment to the rule of law, due process, fair play, and equity, and in championing the constitutional right to suffrage of all qualified Filipino citizens." 1
COMELEC Resolution No. 10768 outlines the guidelines for PDL voting, allowing for special polling places within jails based on voter population. The BJMP's facilitation of PDL voting is a testament to their commitment to human rights and empowering all citizens, regardless of their circumstances, to have their voices heard.
As Filipinos participate in today's elections, May 13, 2025, the participation of PDLs at the Lucena City District Jail serves as a powerful reminder that the right to vote extends to all eligible citizens, contributing to a more representative and inclusive democratic process. This inclusive approach to elections strengthens the democratic foundations of the nation.
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