Filipino Youth Group calls on Filipinos to register for 2010 polls

Why is it important to register as an Overseas Absentee Voter (OAV)?

Last year, Overseas Filipino workers contributed more than $15 Billion to the ailing Philippine Economy. While Filipinos overseas keep the Philippine economy afloat, it is sad, even offensive, that we lack representation in the political arena back home. By registering as an Overseas Absentee Voter, we will be able to play a role in choosing leaders who will fight for our rights while we are away from the Philippines. You should register as an OAV in order to vote for the 2010 Philippine National Election.

Why should you vote on the May 10, 2010 Philippine National Election?

You should vote not just because it is your civic duty, you should vote because the Philippines is in dire need of change and you have the ability to make that CHANGE happen. You may think that as an individual your vote may be little more than a whisper but when your vote is combined with the votes of others who share your views, it becomes a loud voice that cannot be ignored. As Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo plots to change the constitution and prolong her stay in power through Constituent Assembly and Charter Change, registering to vote and VOTING itself are ways to strongly remind the current administration how much we value true democracy.

Who is eligible to vote?

According to the Commission on Elections, all citizens of the Philippines abroad, not otherwise disqualified by law, at least eighteen (18) years of age on the day of the election and who wish to vote for President, Vice-President, Senators and Party List Representatives for purposes of the May 10, 2010 National Elections must file applications for registration/certification as overseas absentee voters from December 1, 2008 to August 31, 2009. The voting period will be from April 10, 2010 until 3:00 p.m. Philippine time of May 10, 2010.

How can you register to be an Overseas Absentee Voter?

On August 8, 2009, an Overseas Absentee Voter’s Registration will be held in the Five Corners area of Jersey City from 10am-3pm. You will need a valid Philippine Passport or Dual Citizenship Documents to register. In addition to the voter’s registration, Kalusugan Coalition will hold a free health screening (Blood Pressure, Blood Sugar and Cholesterol). Two-hour fasting is required for the health screening. Details of the event are at the back of this page. If you cannot make it on August 8, you can go to the Philippine Consulate in NY to register on or before August 31, 2009.

This community event is organized by Anakbayan New York/New Jersey, Kalusugan Coalition and Philippine Forum New Jersey .

For questions, feel free to email us at anakbayan.nynj@gmail.com or call Kathleen at 2012535765.