The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has expressed support for the film “2 Valid IDs,” which depicts the difficulties Filipinos face in obtaining government identification documents, while reiterating that voter registration and voter certification are free of charge.
In a statement, Comelec said it approved the film production’s request to use the commission’s official seal during principal photography.
The poll body said it recognized the real-life documentation hurdles portrayed in the film, describing these as challenges that the agency itself has been working to address.
Directed by Ma-an Asuncion-Dagñalan, the 2026 political drama follows Sylvia, a provincial farmer played by Marietta “Pokwang” Subong, who struggles to secure two valid government IDs so she can claim a remittance intended for the treatment of her hospitalized husband, Ramon.
With no valid identification documents, Sylvia becomes caught in a cycle of bureaucratic requirements, long queues and reliance on fixers as her husband’s chronic obstructive pulmonary disease worsens.
The film also stars Joey Marquez, Meryll Soriano and Zaijian Jaranilla. It premiered at the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival in August 2026 before its nationwide release on Oct. 14.
As part of efforts to make its frontline services more accessible, Comelec Chairman George Erwin M. Garcia ensured that voter certification has been free since 2022, the agency said.
The commission said the policy forms part of its continuing commitment to remove barriers and streamline services for the public.
However, Comelec acknowledged that illegal fixers continue to operate, warning that activities involving fixers and the use of counterfeit documents would be dealt with swiftly and strictly under the law.
It urged the public to report anyone offering illegal assistance or engaging in fixer activities in connection with election-related documents.
The poll body emphasized that voters do not need to pay for registration or certification services, reminding the public that both processes remain entirely free.
Reports of fixer activities may be sent directly to the Office of the Chairman through email at ocgemg@comelec.gov.ph.
The public may also file complaints through the national citizens’ complaint hotline 8888 or the Anti-Red Tape Authority.
Comelec reiterated that reports involving illegal fixers and counterfeit documents would be addressed in accordance with existing laws.
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