On 28 April 2025, the Commission on Eections in partnership with the Legal Network for Truthful Elections (LENTE) successfully conducted a voter education initiative entitled “PDL: Pantay Dapat Lahat” at the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) in Muntinlupa City. The event took place at the Inmate Visitation Services Unit (IVSU) of the Maximum Security Camp and was participated in by 500 Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) from both the Maximum and Minimum Security Camps.
The initiative aimed to empower PDLs with the knowledge and tools needed to understand the importance of their role in the democratic process. The resource speakers, LENTE Executive Director Atty Ona Caritos, COMELEC Muntinlupa Election Officer Atty. Kimberly Joy Alzate-Cu, COMELEC, emphasized that the right to vote is a fundamental aspect of every Filipino’s civil liberties, regardless of their circumstances.
The event covered a range of topics, including the rights of PDLs to vote, the process of voting, and how the elections can impact their lives and communities. Interactive discussions were held to build a deeper understanding of the election process, while also addressing the challenges and barriers that PDLs face in terms of voter participation.
The “PDL: Pantay Dapat Lahat” initiative was made possible through collaboration with various stakeholders. This event is part of the COMELEC and LENTE’s broader campaign to ensure that every Filipino, regardless of their situation, is able to participate meaningfully in the democratic processes that shape the nation.
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