DOH urges Comelec to find alternative ways for COVID-19 patients to vote

The Department of Health (DOH) on Friday urged the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to find alternative ways for COVID-19 patients to vote in the 2022 elections, suggesting internet or SMS voting.

Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire warned that allowing infected individuals to vote in person could lead to further transmission of the virus.

In response, Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez clarified that isolation polling places (IPPs) are intended for voters who exhibit symptoms upon arrival at the voting center and not for those confirmed positive for COVID-19.

Jimenez emphasized that requiring patients to leave their isolation facilities was never considered by the Comelec.