The May 12 elections are just around the corner, and whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned voter, we can all agree that preparation makes all the difference on a day like this.
With an estimated 68 million voters heading to their respective precincts, we can only hope for a smooth, stress-free election day. And the good news? It’s entirely possible! All it takes is a checklist of essentials, clear do’s and don’ts, and a fast, reliable connection to keep you informed every step of the way.
Showing up is half the battle—but showing up prepared is how you crush it. Take note of these last-minute election day tips to ensure you’re fully prepared for the big day.
1. Bring a valid government-issued ID.
Don’t leave home without it! This is your ticket in—no ID, no vote. Make sure it’s valid and easy to access. Visit the COMELEC website to see the list of acceptable IDs.
2. Know your precinct number and voting location.
Check your assigned precinct in advance via the COMELEC website or use online precinct finder tools to go straight to the right spot. The more prepared you are, the sooner you’re out of there.
3. Charge your devices.
Your phone will be your lifeline on election day! Make sure it’s fully charged before you head out—and bring a power bank, just in case. You never know how long the lines might be, and having sufficient battery life can be a game-changer when you need to make a call, check updates, or look something up online.
4. Stock up on essentials.
Between the blistering summer heat and the crowds at the precinct, the whole voting process be physically and mentally taxing. A little comfort can go a long way, so come prepared: bring water and snacks to stay energized, an umbrella or hat for sun protection, a portable fan to keep cool, any essential medications, and alcohol or sanitizer to stay fresh and clean. And don’t forget your own pen!
5. Subscribe to Smart’s load and data offers.
Staying connected on election day is essential—for real-time updates, staying in touch with friends and family, and keeping yourself entertained while you wait, among others. Before heading to the polls, make sure you’re subscribed to Smart’s load and data offers so you can make audio and video calls, stay active on social media, and even stream shows or music throughout the day. Open your Smart App to choose the data offer that best suits your needs.
6. Dress for comfort.
Comfort is key, especially if you’ll be lining up under the sun. Go for light, breathable clothing and footwear you can comfortably stand in for hours. That said, with the weather being unpredictable as of late, it would be smart to pack a raincoat just in case.
7. Know what not to do—and what not to wear.
First-time voters, take note: taking photos of your ballot or posting it online is strictly prohibited. And while there’s no official dress code, steer clear of clothing or accessories that show a candidate’s name, image, or slogan. This helps avoid any hint of electioneering inside the polling place.
Now that you’ve got the basics covered, there’s only one thing left to do: make your vote count. Head to the polls, make the smart choice, and vote wisely!
