The House of Representatives has approved the bill declaring the National Election Day as a regular non-working holiday in the country on second reading.

House Committee on Suffrage and Electoral Reforms Chairperson Maximo Dalog Jr and 4Ps Party-list Representative JC Abalos sponsored House Bill 8187, or also known as the Election Holiday Act.

According to Dalog, the primary objective of the bill is to maximize the participation of Filipino voters in the polls and allow them to exercise their right to suffrage.

He said the measure also seeks to address concerns about work-related obligations that hinder individuals from casting their vote.

“The proposed legislation aims to provide ample time for citizens to participate in the democratic process without the burden of work-related responsibilities,” Dalog added.

The Congressman said citizens who choose to vote on the designated Election Day shall be entitled to receive full payment of wages.

HB 8187 also seeks to define national elections as "involving electoral activities such as plebiscites, referenda, people’s initiatives, recall elections and special elections among others."

The third and final approval of the bill will be held when the 19th Congress opens its second regular session on July 24.

Written By Ailah Francisco, DZRH News Online Intern