The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has issued guidance on what registrants should do if their voter application is challenged or disputed.Following the conclusion of the voter registration period for the 2026 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections, Comelec noted that some applications may still be subject to opposition through its Election Registration Board (ERB) process.According to Comelec, the ERB issues summons to individuals when a petition or objection is filed against their voter registration.The summons includes details such as the complaint, supporting documents from the petitioner, and the scheduled hearing date.The purpose of the hearing is to allow the applicant to respond and defend their eligibility as a voter.Registrants who receive a summons are advised to attend the ERB hearing and present evidence proving their qualification.This may include valid identification documents and proof of residency in the area where they are registering.

Comelec stressed that this process ensures due process and protects the applicant’s right to be heard before any decision is made on their registration status.

The ERB is composed of the election officer as chairperson, along with the highest official of a public school and the local civil registrar as members.

However, individuals who are related to incumbent officials up to the fourth degree of consanguinity or affinity are disqualified from serving on the board.Comelec also clarified procedures for those who wish to challenge ERB members, requiring petitions to be filed within 10 days from the first hearing.Under Comelec Resolution No.11191 and Republic Act No.8189, the deadline for filing petitions for exclusion of voters is set on July 20, 2026.

The poll body reported receiving 5,470,889 voter applications between October 20, 2025 and May 18, 2026, with Region IV-A recording the highest number.Comelec confirmed there will be no extension of registration but said the process will resume in February 2027 ahead of the 2028 national elections.