The Commission on Elections (Comelec) will ensure that persons with disabilities (PWDs) in the country will get better access during electoral processes.

This was emphasized by Comelec Commissioner Al Parreño who personally witnessed the voting simulation for PWDs on Monday (Jan. 27) at the Libertad National High School here.

More than 100 PWDs from Barangays Libertad, Ambago, Bayanihan, Doongan, and Bancasi joined the voting simulation.

The activity was led by Comelec-13 Regional Director Francisco Pobe, Comelec Agusan del Norte Election Officer April Joy Balano, and Butuan City Election Officer Samuel Rollo.

“Each of us has special needs. There are instances where the structure of the government does not meet our special needs,” Parreño said in his message before the start of the voting simulation.

He added that Comelec wants to meet the needs of PWDs to ensure their participation during the electoral process.

“This activity is very important for us to know what are our needs during the conduct of elections. This will allow you to try our equipment and other materials used for the election. You will determine if what we need to improve to suit your situation,” he said.

He added that Comelec will make the preparations this year for the processes, the machines, and the ballots that will be used in the upcoming elections.

After casting their ballots, the PWDs were asked to fill out an evaluation form that will become the basis of Comelec in improving their services to persons with special needs.

“We dedicate this day for you, the PWDs in Caraga Region. We want to make sure that the moment you cast your vote come elections in 2022, you already know your rights and privileges,” Pobe said.

He added that the voting simulation shows the actual activity during the conduct of election where PWDs are among the participating electorates. (PNA)