Title
Voting rights for gov~t employees and military
Law
Presidential Decree No. 249
Decision Date
Jul 20, 1973
Presidential Decree No. 249 allows government officials, employees, and military personnel to vote in their place of assignment, ensuring the participation of qualified citizens in referendums and consultations, particularly in areas with unsettled peace and order.
A

Allowance for Military Personnel to Vote in Place of Assignment

  • Military personnel registered as barangay members in a location different from their current assignment may vote at the barangay referendum center nearest their camp, barracks, or detachment.
  • The election registrar may authorize the establishment of referendum centers within military installations when convenient and accessible to facilitate voting.
  • Family members of military personnel assigned to such installations are also authorized to vote at these centers.

Conditions for Postponement of Barangay Referendums

  • The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) may postpone the referendum due to serious causes such as natural disasters, violence, terrorism, loss or destruction of election materials, or other force majeure.
  • Postponement requires a verified petition, due notice, and hearing.
  • The referendum must be rescheduled to a date reasonably close to the original referendum date.
  • In cases of unrest or unsafe conditions in a barangay, COMELEC may allow voters to cast ballots at the nearest barangay referendum center where peace and order are maintained.

Implementation and Effectivity

  • The amendments took effect immediately upon promulgation, ensuring timely facilitation of voting for government workers and military personnel under specified conditions.

This decree enhances electoral participation by accommodating the practical needs of government and military personnel, thereby strengthening barangay democracy as envisioned by the law.


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