The Commission on Elections (Comelec) reported 311 machine-related issues during the 2025 Philippine elections, a figure considered relatively low compared to previous national polls. According to Comelec Chairperson George Garcia, this number reflects better performance and preparedness in handling automated counting machines (ACMs).
Comelec Addresses Automated Counting Machines
Garcia shared these updates during a press conference held an hour before the polls closed. “As compared to the 2022 elections where during the first few hours of the voting 2,500 kaagad ang pinalitan ng Comelec, in all fairness, 311 lang ang pinalitan na makina,” he said. For the entire election day, only 311 machines were replaced out of a reserve of 16,000 contingency machines.
Detailed Breakdown of Machine Problems
The issues recorded include problems with 5 ACM units, 13 ACM covers, 77 ACM scanners, 11 ACM screens, 5 ballots, 8 manual audits, 2 operational concerns, 1 procedural issue, 1 smart card, 60 thermal cutters, 35 thermal papers, 73 thermal printers, and 10 USB devices.
Despite these challenges, Garcia assured the public that no major problems were encountered thanks to the ample supply of backup machines. “We have not encountered major issues because, again, we have 16,000 contingency machines,” he emphasized.
Combating Misinformation on Social Media
The Comelec chief also urged the public to avoid spreading misinformation about the election process. “Yung iba po talaga ay mga misinformation… Sana naman po ‘wag naman nila abusuhin ang social media. Unfair naman po sa mga kababayan natin na bumoto at nagpakahirap kanina,” Garcia appealed.
Voting and Machine Malfunctions in Various Areas
Voting officially closed at 7:00 p.m., but those standing in line within 30 meters of polling precincts were still allowed to cast their ballots. Reports of malfunctioning ACMs surfaced in places like Cebu, where five machines at Lahug Elementary School failed but were quickly fixed by technicians.
Early voting hours in Lipa City, Batangas, also experienced technical glitches at the GB Lontok Memorial Integrated School. In addition, the Legal Network for Truthful Elections (LENTE) reported similar problems nationwide, mainly involving sensitive scanners that frequently rejected ballots. These incidents caused temporary pauses as the Electoral Board cleaned the scanners, leading to delays and longer queues.
Overall, the Comelec’s preparation and quick response helped ensure that machine-related issues did not significantly disrupt Eleksyon 2025.