Automated counting machines deliver reliable performance
Despite reports of glitches during this year’s midterm elections, the automated counting machines (ACM) managed to perform their tasks effectively. The Commission on Elections (Comelec) confirmed that the ACMs operated better compared to previous elections, ensuring a smoother voting process overall.
There were isolated technical issues in several precincts that caused long lines. Even President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. experienced having to feed his ballot twice due to a machine hiccup. Nonetheless, these incidents did not significantly disrupt the election process.
Fewer replacements mark improved ACM performance
Comelec highlighted that during the 2022 national elections, nearly 2,000 vote counting machines required replacement. This year, only 311 machines needed to be swapped out, mostly for minor concerns.
“The ACM and the automated election system performed well. In fact, more than our expectations. Nagpakalat kami ng 16,000 contingency machines and yet 311 lang yung nagamit, so ganun po kaganda ang performance ng ACM,” said Comelec spokesperson Rex Laudiangco.
He added that even brand-new machines are not immune to issues. “Dumi, dust, foreign objects, lilinisin lang sana ‘yan, ‘yung scanner, pero sabi nga namin kung magtatagal pang linisin, palitan na natin,” he explained.
Election watchdogs praise contingency plans and machine reliability
Election watchdog group LENTE (Legal Network for Truthful Elections) gave a positive initial assessment of the automated counting machines’ role in the midterm elections. They emphasized that a full evaluation will follow after the random manual audit (RAM), which manually counts ballots to verify machine results.
Helen Graido, LENTE’s director for electoral and technology policies, commented, “I think it’s a good direction na dapat naman talaga ready tayo for contingencies hindi naman talaga 100% ‘yan in terms of equipment. But I guess the contingency plans are actually working right now.” (I think it’s a good direction that we are ready for contingencies because we cannot assure 100% performance in terms of equipment. But the contingency plans are actually working right now.)
South Korean partner highlights faster, smoother voting experience
The South Korean firm involved in providing the machines noted that despite some minor technical issues, the overall conduct of the elections was favorable. They stated, “… with minimal technical issues, the May 12 2025 NLE is a significant improvement on Philippine electoral exercises affording Filipinos a leveled up voting experience.”
The company also emphasized that prompt resolution of technical concerns helped ensure uninterrupted voting and a more seamless experience for voters. Their PWD-friendly machines notably reduced paper jams and sped up processing times, contributing to faster voting.
For more updates on the elections, visit Filipinokami.com.