By Xander Ledesma
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) introduced the automated counting machine (ACM) to voters in Negros Occidental on December 2 as part of preparations for the May 12, 2025, national and local elections. Demonstrations were conducted across all 32 local government units (LGUs) in the province, including Bacolod City.
In Bacolod City, election officer Revo Sorbito led the demonstration at Ayala Malls Capitol Central, showcasing the ACM’s features to various sectors, including local candidates. Sorbito emphasized the importance of familiarizing voters with the new technology ahead of the elections.
“This is Comelec’s way of bringing the voting experience closer to our voters. As you know, we will use a new voting machine in the coming 2025 elections,” Sorbito said.
The ACM features a 14-inch touchscreen, sensor, scanner, printer, camera, universal serial bus (USB) ports, external keypad, and a receptacle for voter receipts. These innovations are part of Comelec’s Full Automation System with Transparency and Audit/Count (FASTrAC), which is designed to enhance accuracy and transparency in the electoral process.
Roadshows were also conducted in city and municipal halls, government centers, public plazas, covered courts, gymnasiums, and election offices in the 31 other LGUs of Negros Occidental. These demonstrations allowed voters to interact with the machines and understand their functionalities.
Negros Occidental has 2.009 million registered voters for the 2025 midterm elections. Comelec aims to ensure that voters are well-acquainted with the new system before election day.
The ACM is a key component of the FASTrAC system, which also includes the consolidation and canvassing system, election management system, online voting and counting system, and secure electronic transmission services. South Korean joint venture firm Miru Systems has been contracted to provide the technology for the 2025 elections.
The initiative is part of Comelec’s efforts to enhance voter confidence and ensure a smooth, efficient, and transparent voting process.