Comelec Records Highest Voter Turnout in 2025 Philippine Midterm Election History

By Sherman Calotes | Mindanao People's Press 

MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has recorded an unprecedented 81.65% voter turnout in the 2025 midterm elections, marking the highest participation rate ever in a non-presidential election in the country.

Comelec Chairperson George Garcia confirmed the record-breaking figure during a press briefing held Thursday, March 15, describing the turnout as a significant milestone in the country’s democratic process.

“Yes, this is the highest turnout in the history of midterm elections,” Garcia said.

The figure comes close to the 82.5% turnout recorded during the 2022 presidential elections and significantly surpasses the 75.90% turnout registered in the last midterm polls in 2019—reflecting a surge of nearly six percentage points.

Traditionally, midterm elections in the Philippines see lower voter participation compared to presidential races. However, this year defied expectations, with Comelec attributing the surge to heightened engagement among the youth and stronger public awareness.

“Young voters really turned out in big numbers this election cycle,” Garcia said, noting that individuals aged 18 to 34 comprise more than 28 million of the 68.4 million registered voters for the 2025 elections. “It’s clear they wanted their voices to be heard.”

Senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and pregnant women also came out early to vote, taking advantage of the special early voting hours allotted to them. Garcia revealed that over three million voters showed up within the first two hours of polling operations.

Beyond voter demographics, Garcia highlighted Comelec’s extensive public engagement as a major factor behind the turnout. From voter registration drives to information campaigns, the election body maintained strong visibility across media platforms and on the ground.

“We were present from the start during registration, campaign periods, and all throughout election day,” he said. “I think we deserve a bit of credit for staying visible and consistent.”

Comelec’s persistent efforts to combat vote-buying and its targeted messaging to the youth also helped foster a more informed and engaged electorate, Garcia added.

“Maybe our constant reminders and challenges to the youth played a role,” he said. “They responded, and we saw that at the polls.”

The 2025 midterm elections are now being hailed as a landmark moment for Philippine democracy, showcasing renewed civic participation and a growing sense of responsibility among voters, particularly the younger generation.