Law Summary
Distribution of Official Sample Ballots and Voter Information to Voters
- COMELEC is mandated to furnish every registered voter with an unfilled official sample ballot, voter information sheet, and list of candidates at least thirty (30) days before the election.
- Delivery methods include registered mail with return card, personal service with a signed receipt by the voter or someone who knows the voter, or any practical alternative.
- The voter information sheet includes the voter's name, address, precinct, registration place, and simplified instructions for casting votes.
Composition of Candidate Lists and Presentation Format
- The list contains all registered candidates for national, provincial, and city elections, including party-list nominees.
- Candidates' names are alphabetically listed under their respective party affiliations.
- Each candidate is described by a concise, one-line statement of their occupation or profession, limited to three (3) words.
- For national candidates, an innovative "democratized" alphabetical order is employed across three columns to ensure equitable visibility:
- Column 1: Letters A to Z in normal order
- Column 2: Letters I to Z followed by A to H
- Column 3: Letters Q to Z followed by A to P
Format and Accessibility of Materials
- These materials can be provided as a single sheet or as a booklet.
- The voter's polling place number and location must be prominently indicated.
Language Requirement
- The official sample ballots, voter information sheets, and candidate lists must be printed in the language or dialect understood by the majority of voters in the region.
Effectivity
- The law took effect immediately upon approval on February 23, 1995.