The Commission on Elections (COMELEC), under the steadfast leadership of Chairman George Erwin Mojica Garcia, has once again brought pride to the Philippines by being recognized on the international stage.
At a ceremony organized by the International Centre for Parliamentary Studies (ICPS), COMELEC and its Chairman received three major awards:
• The Electoral Commissioner of the Year
• The International Institutional Engagement Award
• The First-Time Voters Award
These honors are a testament to Chairman Garcia’s unwavering dedication and commitment to democratic governance, electoral integrity, and inclusive political participation in the Philippines.
Championing Electoral Integrity
Since assuming the chairmanship, Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia has emphasized the importance of truth, transparency, and trust in every electoral process. His leadership has been pivotal in strengthening COMELEC’s credibility as a guardian of the people’s voice, particularly at a time when the world is grappling with the challenges of misinformation, digital disruption, and voter apathy.
The Electoral Commissioner of the Year Award recognizes Chairman Garcia’s resolute pursuit of clean, honest, and credible elections, while ensuring that electoral reforms are both forward-looking and inclusive.
Strengthening Global Engagement
Under Chairman Garcia’s direction, COMELEC has actively engaged with international institutions to exchange knowledge, share best practices, and foster cooperation on election management. This commitment to collaboration earned COMELEC the International Institutional Engagement Award, highlighting its role in elevating the Philippines as a respected partner in global electoral affairs.
Through COMELEC’s engagements with various organizations and governments worldwide, the Philippines is not only a participant but also a contributor in shaping more resilient, transparent, and people-centered election systems across nations.
Empowering the Next Generation of Voters
Perhaps the most inspiring recognition is the First-Time Voters Award, which celebrates COMELEC’s efforts in engaging the youth and ensuring that their voices are heard in the democratic process. Chairman Garcia has consistently underscored the importance of political education and participation among young Filipinos, stressing that the strength of democracy lies in the active involvement of its citizens—especially those casting their votes for the very first time.
By empowering the new generation of voters, COMELEC under Garcia’s leadership ensures that the democratic flame continues to burn bright, carried forward by the country’s future leaders and nation-builders.
Global Recognition for Local Commitment
The International Centre for Parliamentary Studies (ICPS), a research institution affiliated with the United Nations Public Administration Network (UNPAN) and in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Association of European Election Officials (ACEEEO), honored COMELEC for embodying the principles of good governance and capacity building.
For ICPS, COMELEC’s achievements demonstrate not only excellence in electoral management but also the kind of leadership that strengthens public trust in democracy—values that resonate beyond the Philippines and inspire institutions worldwide.
Dedication to the Filipino People
For Chairman George Erwin Mojica Garcia, these recognitions are not just personal accolades but symbols of the collective effort of the men and women of COMELEC. “These awards belong to every Filipino who believes in the power of their vote,” he emphasized, reminding the nation that democracy thrives only when the people actively participate and institutions remain steadfast in upholding truth and fairness.
As COMELEC continues to prepare for the country’s future elections—including the upcoming 2025 polls—these international honors serve as both recognition and responsibility: a reminder that leadership anchored on dedication, transparency, and service to the people is the true cornerstone of democracy.
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