31,000 out of 115,000 PDLs to vote in special precincts

Only 31,000 out of the 115,000 persons deprived of liberty (PDL) will vote in special polling precincts during the 2025 midterm elections, according to the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP).

Around 80,000 PDLs are unable to vote as they have not registered as voters for the upcoming election.

The BJMP said it is prepared with over 400 special polling precincts inside jails and around 1,000 PDLs will be transported to community polling places on May 9.

BJMP spokesperson Jail Superintendent Jayrex Bustinera emphasized that these individuals retain their right to vote and are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Seven incarcerated candidates are running for various positions including senatorial candidate Apollo Quiboloy, a congressional bet, a vice mayoral contender, and several others seeking seats in municipal councils.

The Supreme Court previously ruled that PDLs should be part of the electoral system, upholding their constitutional right to suffrage.