Manila: British Ambassador to the Philippines Laure Beaufils on Monday shared initial impressions from her team observing the 2025 midterm elections, describing the conduct as ‘mostly positive.’
According to Philippines News Agency, Beaufils noted that her team found the elections to be well-organized during her visit to the command center of poll watchdog Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV). She highlighted a ‘very impressive’ turnout of voters, describing them as eager to vote and contribute to the democratic process.
Beaufils emphasized that the elections were peaceful, orderly, and smooth in most cases. She conveyed a positive overall assessment of the electoral process. Regarding the credibility of the election, Beaufils stated that it is crucial for people to vote according to their conscience and for votes to be recorded and transmitted accurately.
The British envoy pointed out improvements in the electoral process compared to previous elections, such as the introduction of new vote-counting machines, additional backup machines, and new technologies. She praised the Commission on Elections (Comelec) for collaborating with civic groups like PPCRV and the National Citizens’ Movement for Free Elections to enhance transparency.
Beaufils acknowledged ongoing challenges in the Philippine elections, including vote-buying and disinformation. However, she asserted that the United Kingdom’s election observation would not impact diplomatic or development cooperation with the Philippines.
