Question

Scenario:

In the upcoming national elections, the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) has implemented stricter rules and regulations to ensure the integrity and credibility of the electoral process. As a law student, you were tasked to analyze and provide legal opinions on various scenarios related to suffrage, qualification, and disqualification of voters. Consider the following scenario:

Scenario:

1. John, a 19-year-old Filipino citizen, was excited to exercise his right to vote in the upcoming elections. However, he recently discovered that he has been convicted of a crime and is currently serving his sentence in prison. Can John still vote in the elections? Explain your answer using the relevant provisions of the 1987 Constitution and Republic Act No. 8189.
2. Marie wants to register as a voter for the first time. She is married to a foreigner and they have been living abroad for the past 10 years. However, Marie recently returned to the Philippines and plans to reside permanently in the country. Can Marie register as a voter? Discuss the qualifications and disqualifications of voters under the 1987 Constitution and Republic Act No. 8189.