The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) confirmed that the Commission on Elections (Comelec) will push through the online voting for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in the 2028 presidential elections, despite concerns and challenges raised during the recent 2025 midterm polls.
“Online voting is the way to go for our OFWs. 'Yan talaga ang means in which they can exercise their right of suffrage,” said DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac during a press briefing held in Mandaluyong City.
While acknowledging that some OFWs have expressed doubts and questions about the new internet-based voting system, Cacdac stressed that the DMW is prepared to work closely with the COMELEC to improve the voting process.
“Meron tayong information campaign to be joined with COMELEC at ang ating embassies abroad in terms of advantages ng online voting and the proper means to vote. Para maklaro sa mga kababayan natin yung mga agam-agam,” he added.
It can be recalled that overseas Filipinos were among the first to cast their votes through online voting, which ran from April 13 until May 12, 2025.
Cacdac further explained that online voting is beneficial for OFWs, especially those who have to travel long distances to reach polling centers abroad.
“In a place like Saudi Arabia, for instance, makakalayo kami ng central office ng Riyadh at Jeddah — saan nandoon ang voting center,” he explained, highlighting the geographical challenges OFWs face in traditional voting setups.
He assured the public that the drive to inform and engage overseas voters will continue, especially with upcoming elections on the horizon.
The online voting process, according to Cacdac, is aligned with the intent of the law to expand access and encourage more overseas participation.
Meanwhile, the DMW is currently awaiting official figures on voter turnout from Filipinos working abroad during the 2025 midterm elections, which will serve as a basis for evaluating and refining the system ahead of 2028.
