Japan is stepping up to support the Philippines in ensuring clean and secure elections this year by sending official observers and donating vital tech equipment.
In a statement on Friday, Japanese Ambassador Endo Kazuya reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to democratic processes in the Philippines, emphasizing the importance of peaceful and credible elections—especially in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
“Manila is a very important partner. We are committed to helping ensure the integrity and security of the upcoming elections,” Kazuya said. Japan will also observe the country’s first implementation of online voting.
Earlier this month, Japan donated millions worth of ICT equipment, including 40 Starlink units, to the Commission on Elections (Comelec). These devices will aid in secure data transmission, particularly in remote and underserved areas. Comelec Chairperson George Erwin Garcia thanked Japan for the generous support, noting that a total of 7,000 Starlink units will be deployed for Eleksyon 2025.
Midterm elections are set for May 12, while the BARMM parliamentary elections will take place on October 13.