On 13 March 2021, the Philippine Commission on Elections (COMELEC) administered a plebiscite in Palawan to decide on the proposal to divide the island into three provinces. The plebiscite provided a glimpse of the possible COVID-19 related measures that COMELEC would consider implementing in the conduct of the May 2022 General Elections. Using insights generated from observing the plebiscite, this paper intends to offer policy recommendations that our election management body and other electoral stakeholders may reflect on about COVID-proofing the national elections. Moreover, this policy brief, using a whole-of-governance approach, discusses alternatives that consider supply-side and demand-side dimensions with a view that this current health crisis presents an opportunity to pursue lasting reforms that can help make electoral administration not only safer but also more transparent and participatory.
