EU Observers Recommend 21 Election Reforms in the Philippines

The European Union Election Observation Mission (EU-EOM) has recommended a comprehensive review and possible reforms on the Philippines' electoral legal framework to address gaps in the conduct of elections following the 2025 midterm polls. Chief Observer Marta Temido presented the mission's final report containing 21 recommendations, including the need for legal framework reforms and addressing disinformation.

The mission pointed out the outdated 1985 Omnibus Election Code and called for a comprehensive review of the electoral legal framework. It identified issues with the interpretation and application of electoral rules due to loopholes and inconsistencies in the code.

The report highlighted the need for reforms and a review of the electoral legal framework, echoing calls from Filipino politicians, candidates, officials, journalists, and civil society members.

Among the 21 recommendations, seven priority recommendations were identified, including reforming the legal framework, removing restrictions on suffrage for imprisoned citizens, ensuring access for election observers, and countering disinformation.

The mission also raised concerns about candidates artificially boosting their social media followers, which could mislead voters. It commended Filipino voters for the high turnout during the midterm election, despite challenges like electoral violence and vote-buying.

The mission encouraged Filipinos to review the recommendations and emphasized the importance of partnership between the EU and the Philippines in implementing reforms. While hoping for the recommendations' implementation, the final decision rests with the Filipino citizens and authorities.

The EU-EOM, comprising 226 observers, conducted its mission from March 28 to June 2 to observe the electoral process in the Philippines.

According to the source: Manila Bulletin.