Comelec reviews survey regs, considers voluntary system

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is reviewing its survey regulations amid concerns that some organizations might be misleading voters ahead of the 2025 elections.

Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia acknowledged that mandatory registration could infringe upon freedom of expression, so they are now considering a voluntary system instead.

Commissioner Rey Bulay said Comelec is eyeing to issue an amended resolution on the registration of individuals and organizations conducting election-related surveys after meeting with survey firms.

Survey firms including Social Weather Station (SWS), Pulse Asia, OCTA Research, and Publicus Asia have raised concerns over the existing requirements and called for amendments or suspension of the current resolution.

Comelec said it only wants to ensure that only legitimate survey firms engage in polling activities and will provide recognized companies with a 'badge' to guide the public.