COMELEC-Abuyog Conducts Automated Counting Machine Demonstration at ACC
by John Fritz Cabalhin
Abuyog, Leyte – The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) of Abuyog, Leyte conducted a demonstration and roadshow of the Automated Counting Machine (ACM) on Monday, December 9 at Evacuation Facility of Abuyog Community College (ACC). The event aimed at educating voters on how the ACM operates by providing hands-on experience with the machine, ensuring readiness for its use in the May 12, 2025 national and local elections.
Participants for the event were select students from the BS Criminology and BS Information Technology of the college. The activity was spearheaded by Mr. Roche B. Cerro, Election Officer III, and Ronan Jay S. Ladan, Election Assistant, and facilitated by the BYTE Officers along with IT instructors Mr. Crisostomo Arias, Mr. Mark Castañas and Ms. Mary Ann Mora.
The hands-on demonstration allowed attendees to experience the voting process, including feeding ballots into the ACM and observing how it processes and transmits election results. This interactive approach was designed to build voter confidence and ensure familiarity with the updated technology.
On an interview Mr. Cerro highlighted the significance of introducing the new technology to voters, especially first-timers. “We were instructed by our superiors in Manila to go to the local level to familiarize people with the new system. By the time of the election, voters will know how it works, particularly first-time voters,” he said.
He also emphasized the key advantages of the new machines. “The difference is the speed compared to the previous machine. When you feed the ballot, it immediately reads who you voted for. It also offers transparency with its ballot review and vote review features. In terms of transmission, the contracted company guarantees faster data transmission through Starlink, enabling the system to operate even in areas without internet connectivity.” Cerro explained.
Despite the successful demonstration, Cerro acknowledged challenges. “I think we still lack time, we still lack people, and we need more gatherings like this, ‘kay kairo man an waray naka kadi’ (it would be unfortunate for those who were unable to attend), so that voters won’t waste their votes,” he added.
The COMELEC and ACC are dedicated to working together to bridge any gaps in understanding and to foster a confidence and preparedness for the upcoming elections.