The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has initiated a series of roadshows and demonstrations across the Bicol region, deploying 150 automated counting machines (ACMs) to educate the public on the upcoming electoral process. The kickoff event took place at Bicol University in Legazpi City, where media professionals from Albay got hands-on experience with the new technology.
Maria Juana Valeza, the Comelec-5 Regional Director, announced that these roadshows will span two months, reaching all 3,471 barangays in the region from December to January next year. The initiative aims to familiarize residents, schools, local government units, and other public offices with the ACMs.
The new machines boast enhanced features such as larger screens for better visibility of candidates, along with a ballot image and receipt system that voters can verify. Valeza emphasized the importance of following instructions to prevent any technical issues during elections. Additionally, the ACMs are equipped with features to assist visually impaired voters.
To ensure connectivity, Comelec is assessing communication facilities and plans to install Starlink and other GPS systems in remote polling precincts. Valeza revealed that over 5,000 ACMs are expected to be used in Bicol for the midterm elections on May 12, 2025, with each voting and polling center receiving one machine. Following the roadshows, around 30,000 individuals will be trained as electoral board members from February to April.
The ACMs feature a 14-inch adjustable touchscreen with a privacy screen, faster scanning capabilities, an automatic receipt-cutting feature, a built-in receipt compartment, and options for accessibility. They are also designed to transmit results immediately after voting concludes.