Comelec bars EU observers from polling places

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) rejected a request from European Union (EU) election observers to access polling places during the 2025 midterm elections on May 12.

Comelec chairman George Garcia stated that while the commission welcomes international observation in the interest of transparency, it cannot allow EU observers inside polling precincts due to Philippine laws and regulations.

Election lawyer and former senator Leila de Lima said Comelec has the authority to permit foreign election observers under certain conditions, citing previous experiences and clear guidelines.

De Lima emphasized that while Article 7, Section 52(k) B.2 of the Omnibus Election Code (OEC) restricts entry into polling places, it remains within Comelec's discretion to implement specific regulations for foreign observers.

Comelec Resolution 11121 also states poll observers cannot enter any polling place without the consent of the Electoral Board concerned, but Garcia has said laws take precedence over Comelec resolutions.