THE European Union (EU) said it deployed its 200 observers for a non-interference “election observation mission” (EOM) to the country’s national and local elections on May 12, 2025 upon the invitation of the Philippines.
The mandate is “to observe all aspects of the electoral process and assess the extent to which the elections with the Philippine constitution and laws as well as the Philippines’ international and regional commitment related to democratic elections,” said a handout obtained by this writer.
And this is confirmed by Juris Bigels and Ana Rita Mira, all members of the EU electoral mission in a chat with this writer. Both contacted me for a talk thru a Filipina help.
The mission is led by Marta Temido, and member of the EU pariamment from Portugal. EU Observer mission is composed of the 200 personalities of member states, like Canada, Norway, and Switzerland, among others.
Being a non-interference, the mission is said to be independent in its findings and “will adhere to the code of Conduct and maintain strict neutrality and impartiality in the course of their work.” Its work in accordance with the Declaration of Principles for International Election Observation adopted at the United Nations in 2005 by a member of international organiations involved in election observation.”
The mission is expected to meet and talk with the commission on elections, authorities, political parties and candidates and representatives of the media, civil society, and others about the incoming situation of the elections.
The mission outlined its role in observing the incoming elections. It is to assess the following: laws related to elections; performance of the election administration; the registration of political parties and candidates and voters; campaign activities and finance; participation of women, youth ethnic/religious groups; role of media and social media; accuracy, security, transparency of the automated election system; voting and tabulation; complaints and tabulation; and publication of the results.
It said that it will present its ‘preliminary’ findings and conclusions if the elections conducted are in accordance with the Philippine laws and international commitment to democratic elections. (Ric Obedencio)
