QUEZON CITY, (PIA) — The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has announced the arrival of approximately 80,000 automated counting machines (ACMs) in preparation for next year’s midterm elections, as well as the parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.
Comelec Chairperson George Garcia confirmed that nearly 80,000 of the anticipated 110,000 ACMs have been delivered to the Comelec warehouse in Biñan, Laguna.
The delivery marks a significant step in the preparations for the elections scheduled for May 2025.
Garcia said that the printing of 1.2 million test ballots, which will be used in a nationwide information campaign to educate voters on the use of the ACMs, is expected to be completed within three days.
In addition, he noted that there are currently at least 68 million registered voters across the country, according to reports from nearly 93% of election officers.
Garcia emphasized a more efficient approach to ballot printing this election cycle, stating that Comelec plans to “only print what is necessary” to avoid issues with excess ballots that have occurred in previous elections.
The arrival of the ACMs is a key development as the Comelec aims to streamline the voting process and enhance the overall electoral experience for voters. (AVS/PIA-NCR)
