The National Privacy Commission (NPC) has opened an investigation after voters found their photos, full names, and addresses posted on bulletin boards outside polling stations during the May 12, 2025, national and local elections. The displays formed part of the Posted Computerized Voters’ Lists, or PCVLs, intended to help citizens locate their precinct numbers.
Election‑day images shared on social media showed entire PCVL pages taped to school gates and public walls, making sensitive details viewable — and photographable — by anyone. The practice risks identity theft and unwanted contact, especially for vulnerable voters.
“We strongly advise the public to refrain from taking photographs of the PCVLs and posting them on social media or other platforms without the consent of the individuals listed,” the commission said. “Unauthorized sharing of personal data may lead to further privacy risks and potential violations of the law.”
Focus on possible law breach
The NPC will decide whether the public display violated the Data Privacy Act of 2012, its rules, and circulars. The law requires personal data to be processed only for clear, legal purposes and kept away from unnecessary exposure.
PCVLs contain each voter’s name, photograph, precinct number, and address. While meant to speed up voting, the lists have long raised concerns among privacy experts who want technology‑based alternatives that reveal less personal information.
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