Asking for a Friend: How Do I Encourage Others to Register with Me?

If you’ve already made plans to register to vote in the 2022 elections, congratulations! If not, well, you’re not alone, and it’s not hard to understand why.

Despite a good turnout in the most recent 2019 elections, getting the youth to go out and vote has always been a challenge – and doing so in the middle of a pandemic is even harder. We’re already busy and overwhelmed, and an election may be the furthest thing from our minds right now. And even if you do intend to vote, it can be hard convincing others to join you. 

But there’s good news – we’re here to help! 

If you’re feeling uneasy about voting or talking to your friends and loved ones about voting, don’t worry. We’re here to ease your fears and answer some of your most burning concerns about voter registration.  

Hindi ba malaking hassle magparehistro? Ang daming kailangan. Isn’t there an easier way?

Believe it or not, the registration process has actually gotten easier this time.

The only requirement you need is a valid ID – and so many types of them are accepted, including your school ID! 

When it comes to the paperwork, all the required forms (and there’s really only one necessary form to fill out) are available for download online. An even more convenient option is to use iRehistro, where you can input your details and generate a QR code, to fill out your application. 

The actual registration might take some time. But as you can see, dealing with the paperwork is quite hassle-free. Try to also think of this as an opportunity to practice your “adulting” skills. After all, there are way more lines and forms to fill out in your future, that’s for sure.

My friends and family don’t usually talk about political stuff. How can I bring this up with them?

This is the perfect time to get started!

Sure, it might seem awkward and out of place at first. But the only way to get through it is to be completely honest and casual about it.

In these times where we don’t see each other so often, those life updates and kwentuhan sessions become even more valuable. And registering to vote definitely counts as a major life update. 

A simple “Registered na ako!” will be enough, and you can start talking about your experience with the process. Who knows? Maybe your friends are actually curious about registering as well. 

Nakakatamad pumila. Marami kaming ginagawa. How do we find the time?

Unfortunately, this is just one of the things that’s out of our control. Especially in the middle of a pandemic, it’s no surprise that registering to vote will take a good chunk of time out of your day.

However, there are steps you can take to try to speed things up a bit. One is making sure you have all requirements ready beforehand. This includes your valid ID, a photocopy of your valid ID, and having filled out all necessary forms or saved the iRehistro QR code onto your phone.

It’s also advisable to call your local COMELEC office early to set an appointment. This way, you get to control your appointment date and time, and you can even find out if there are any lean hours. 

And of course, there’s always a way to make the time pass by. If you can, schedule an appointment together with a friend or family member. Not only will you be sure that they are registered as well, but you can use the time to catch up and bond. Now that will make your voter registration experience truly special! 

Will our votes really make a difference?

Not gonna lie, all of us have thought this at one point or another. I’m just one person. Will my vote really count?

But that’s all the more reason to encourage your friends and family to vote as well! Sure, one person might not be able to make a difference. But many people working together definitely can. If anything, by registering to vote, you’re setting a positive example for others around you. 

Remember, big change starts from small actions. Let’s commit to making a difference together by doing our part as citizens and voters.