MANILA, (PIA) — The European Union (EU) officially launched its election observation mission to the Philippines on Friday, marking the first time the EU will deploy such a mission in the country in time for the May 12, 2025 midterm elections.
The announcement was made during a press conference in Makati City attended by key officials, including Chief Observer Marta Temido, a member of the European Parliament, and Deputy Chief Observer Manuel Sanchez Deno.
Temido expressed gratitude for the warm welcome she received upon her arrival in Manila and highlighted the significance of the mission in strengthening EU-Philippines relations.
“This is an important milestone,” she said, noting that the EU was invited by Philippine authorities and the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to observe the 2025 national midterm and local elections.
The mission consists of a core team of 12 experts based in Manila and 72 long-term observers deployed in 36 teams across the country since April 16.
An additional 104 short-term observers will join in early May, bringing the total to approximately 200 observers from EU member states, Canada, Norway, and Switzerland.
Temido emphasized that the mission is not intended to validate election results but to monitor the electoral process.
“We are here to observe, assess, and support democratic standards independently and without interfering,” she explained.
The EU’s observation methodology includes an assessment of various aspects of the electoral process, including the legal framework, campaign finance, media coverage, and respect for fundamental freedoms.
“Our role is to ensure that every voter can cast their ballot free from pressure or intimidation,” Temido said.
The preliminary findings of the mission will be publicly presented on May 14, 2025, and a comprehensive final report will follow two months after the elections, detailing recommendations for improving future electoral processes.
In response to media questions about potential challenges, Temido acknowledged concerns regarding disinformation and foreign interference in elections.
The EU has also established a social media monitoring unit to address these issues, reflecting a growing awareness of such threats in democratic processes.
Temido reiterated the EU’s commitment to supporting democratic governance and fostering cooperation with the Philippines.
They also announced that the next press event will be the deployment of short-term observers, scheduled for early May. (JCO/PIA-NCR)
(Photo: European Union Election Observation Missions Facebook page)
