The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is embarking on a series of roadshows across Negros Occidental to familiarize voters with the automated counting machines (ACMs) ahead of the national and local elections on May 12. The initiative kicked off with an orientation and demonstration at Carlos Hilado Memorial State University’s Fortune Towne campus in Bacolod City on January 6, 2025.
From January 11 to 24, the roadshow will continue in various educational institutions in Bacolod City, including STI – West Negros University, Carlos Hilado Memorial State University – Alijis Campus, Colegio San Agustin – Bacolod, Riverside College, La Consolacion College, John B. Lacson Colleges Foundation, Bacolod City College, Barangay Singcang – Airport National High School, and Bacolod City National High School. These events aim to engage students and faculty in understanding the new voting technology.
Additionally, from January 10 to 31, the roadshows will extend to 31 cities and municipalities, excluding Pontevedra, utilizing venues such as barangay halls, covered courts, and school campuses. Lionel Marco Castillano, the Election Director for the Negros Island Region, emphasized the importance of showcasing the ACMs to all sectors to foster acceptance of the new counting system.
Each city and municipality will have its own machine, ensuring widespread exposure. The ACMs boast advanced features including a 14-inch touchscreen, sensor, scanner, printer, camera, USB ports, an external keypad, and a voter’s receipt receptacle. The technology is provided by Miru Systems, a South Korean joint venture firm, under Comelec’s new Full Automation System with Transparency and Audit/Count (FASTrAC) for the 2025 midterm elections.