The Commission on Elections (Comelec) began the two-day rollout of 7.5 million official ballots for the midterm elections in Metro Manila on Tuesday, part of the final preparations for the 12 May polls.

Ballots for Caloocan, Marikina, Pasig, Valenzuela, Quezon City, Malabon, Navotas and San Juan were dispatched first, with deliveries for Muntinlupa, Pateros, Taguig, Manila, Makati, Pasay, Las Piñas, Mandaluyong and Parañaque set for Wednesday.

Comelec Chair George Garcia explained that ballots are first delivered to each city’s Office of the Treasurer, where they’ll be securely stored until their distribution to precincts on 11 May or early on election day.

Garcia confirmed that ballots for other regions have been delivered ahead of schedule, ensuring that all is set for Monday’s nationwide vote.

He invited political parties, candidates, and watchdog organizations to send representatives to monitor the delivery process, emphasizing its transparency and accountability. Police and military personnel accompany the shipments to safeguard against any security threats or tampering.

The distribution of ballots nationwide started as early as 22 April, with the final testing and sealing of vote-counting machines wrapping up this week. This ensures that all machines are properly calibrated and secure before polling day.

Around 68 million Filipinos are registered to vote in this election which will choose local officials up to national senators.

With less than a week to go, Garcia reminded voters to be mindful of the election guidelines.

While bringing a mobile phone into the voting precinct is allowed, he urged voters not to take photos inside or post them on social media, saying, “Let’s respect the solemnity and integrity of the election process.”

He said that snapping photos of ballots, voting machine screens, or receipts is illegal — and taking receipts out of the precinct can lead to legal action. “Poll watchers can report violations, and voters could face charges,” he added.

Garcia also cautioned voters against accepting sample ballots, saying they can be used to mislead or confuse. He also flagged offers of free rides or food on election day as potential vote buying schemes.

“Someone could take a picture of you receiving these perks, and you might unknowingly be part of a case for vote buying,” he warned.

To ensure a smooth voting process, the Comelec is ramping up its voter education efforts, reminding the public to check their precinct locations ahead of time and come prepared on election day.