Manila, Feb 8 (TIWN) Campaign for presidential election formally kicked off in the Philippines on Tuesday, three months ahead of the voting on May 9 to choose a new President that will lead this Southeast Asian country in the next six years.

At least 67.5 million Filipinos have registered to vote, including 1.8 million voters overseas, reports Xinhua news agency.  They will also elect the vice president, about 300 lawmakers, and over 18,000 positions as local officials.