Poll watchers shading for seniors may serve time for up to 6 years — Comelec

Metro Manila, Philippines - Two sacked poll watchers that have gone viral on Monday, May 12, for shading 2025 midterm election ballots on behalf of voters can face up to six years of imprisonment, Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman George Garcia said.

The video uploader called out the election watchers for shading on behalf of senior voters, but the watchers continued nonetheless.

“‘Yung pagre-represent na pu-pwede kang mag-authorize ka na mag-shade ng balota ‘yan po ay bawal, therefore, one to six years imprisonment po ‘yan,” Garcia told reporters in an ambush interview.

[Translate: Representing oneself as authorized to shade a ballot is prohibited, therefore, that can be punishable by one to six years imprisonment.]

In an earlier message to reporters, Garcia said both watchers were immediately identified and removed from their positions. He added that charges will be filed against them.

“Kahit paano nandoon yung ID, nandoon din naka T-shirt pa nga at naka-green and dalawa po sila na pinaalis mismo ng ating local Comelec,” he added.

[Translation: At least the ID was there, they were even wearing green T-shirts and both of them were kicked out by the local Comelec.]

Voters have also raised concerns about sensitive ballots and invalidated votes because of ink smudges from shade marks. 

Garcia said it would not be possible to extend the voting period for polling sites that faced delays, errors, and glitches.

Polling sites close at 7 p.m.

 Volunteer Glenn Gerald Elocre contributed to this report.