The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) in Miagao and Iloilo City gave an orientation on the new Automated Counting Machine (ACM) to students and personnel of the University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV) ahead of the 2025 midterm elections.
Election Officer Jessie Borro, Jr. and Election Assistant Sean Gregory Genzola of COMELEC Miagao conducted the demonstration at the College Union Building, Miagao campus on Jan. 22, 2025 as part of the agency’s “Automated Counting Machine Nationwide Roadshow.” Students, including first-timer voters, and personnel of the Office of Student Affairs attended the activity.
Meanwhile, Election Officer Atty. Pinky Jevini Tentativa and Election Assistant Nanelyn Jamero conducted the same demonstration at the UPV Little Theatre to Iloilo City-based faculty, staff, and students on Jan. 23.
COMELEC personnel showed a new feature of the ACM where voters can see their votes through a screen before the receipts are printed.
The machine is also capable of scanning election receipts and creating a summary of the results. Likewise, additional devices are in place for visually-impaired voters.
According to COMELEC, the new features seek to improve accuracy and transparency in this year’s elections.
Borro said they have been conducting the orientation in barangays and academic institutions to educate voters since December 2024. The campaign runs until January this year.
In an interview, Borro said voters, especially first-timers, should go to polling precincts early to avoid crowds and bring a guide with them for a smoother voting experience. Voting runs from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM on election day, May 12, 2025.
