First time voters experience smooth voting process

ZAMBOANGA CITY, May 9 (PIA) – Voters flock in polling centers of Zamboanga City early in the morning today (May 9) for the National and Local Elections 2022. 

This includes the first time voters coming from the youth sector who came early at their polling centers to cast their votes. Most of the first time voters are excited to experience the voting process and to vote for their candidates.

Coleen Pequit, one of the first time voters shares her experience as it was a smooth process and it was easy for her to fill up the ballots, “I am little nervous while shading my ballot because I may shade the wrong name or shade more than the number of required candidates,” she added.

As a youth and student, Pequit highlighted that she wants a leader that can help the country’s struggles and problems in the society. She also expressed that she is excited and willing to vote this election and encourages the youth to take part in the election, “it is our responsibility as a citizen, so we can elect a person that is deserving of the position,” Pequit said.

Josha De Lima, another first time voter also shares the character of the leader she wants to lead the country, “As first time voter, I can exercise my right to make changes in the Philippines and for my future, I want my leader to be honest and no history of corruption,” De Lima emphasized.

Amidst the inclement weather and minor technical problems of Vote Counting Machines, voting in Zamboanga City continues until 7pm today.

Commission on Elections emphasized that as long as there are people in line outside the precincts, they will be allowed to vote even after 7pm.

Voters are not required to bring any valid ID or vaccination cards, as long as they follow the minimum public health standards inside the polling centers. (NBE/MLE/PIA9-Zamboanga City)