Senator Villar wants more accessible poll venues for seniors, PWDs, other groups

Senator Mark Villar has filed a bill seeking to make poll venues more accessible for senior citizens, Persons wth Disabilities (PWD), and other vulnerable groups such as pregnant women and indigenous groups.

Villar filed Senate Bill No. 1698, titled “An Act Enhancing Accessibility in the Voting of Senior Citizens, Persons with Disabilities, Pregnant Women, and Indigenous Peoples, Amending for the Purpose Republic Act No. 10366”.

Republic Act No. 10366 refers to the law enacted in 2013, authorizing the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) to establish accessible polling places exclusively for persons with disabilities (PWDs) and senior citizens.

Villar's Senate Bill No. 1698 seeks to expand the accessibility requirements for polling places. Its key provisions, include, among others:

(1) ensuring that polling places are located near accessible public transportation;

(2) polling places must be free from physical barriers;

(3) voting places must have walkways for wheelchairs, ramps, railings, and sidewalks, and

(4) voting places must have adequate lighting and ventilation.

The measure aims to empower the COMELEC in designating polling places that prioritize inclusivity and reduce physical and logistical obstacles for vulnerable voters.

Villar urged legislators and stakeholders to support the bill, stressing that voting accessibility is both a matter of equality and a step toward strengthening Philippine democracy.

“Democracy thrives when every voice is heard, yet far too many of our senior citizens, persons with disabilities, expectant mothers, and indigenous brothers and sisters encounter unnecessary hurdles just to exercise their right to vote,” Villar said.

“These barriers are not insurmountable. By building on the foundation of RA 10366, we can create a more inclusive electoral system that truly reflects the diversity of our nation.”

The bill has been referred to the Senate Committee on Electoral Reforms and People Participation for further study and discussion.

-Paraluman News