Iloilo City: The Commission on Elections (Comelec) in Iloilo City successfully conducted the final testing and sealing (FTS) of three automated counting machines (ACMs) intended for mall voting, ensuring they are ready for the upcoming May 12 midterm polls. These machines are set to serve clustered precincts 299, 300, and 301 of Barangay Airport, Mandurriao, where voters will cast their ballots at the Festive Walk Mall, one of the city’s designated mall voting venues.

According to Philippines News Agency, the purpose of the testing was to demonstrate the machines’ accuracy and functionality to the public. Lawyer Pinky Jevini Tentativa, the Election Officer IV for Comelec-Iloilo City, emphasized this in a media interview, stating that the mock elections showcased the machines’ readiness. Thirty registered voters participated in the mock polls, with Barangay Kagawad Jackelyn Deocampo noting the efficiency and convenience of the process, which allows voters to complete voting within 10 to 15 minutes.

Post-testing, Tentativa confirmed that the ACMs were sealed and would remain secured until election day, ensuring their integrity with measures such as designated storage facilities guarded by the Philippine National Police and mall security, as well as CCTV surveillance. The final testing and sealing for the remaining 414 ACMs, designated for other precincts in the city, is set for May 7.

Further preparations for the elections are underway, with Comelec Iloilo having received the automated election system equipment and other necessary paraphernalia. This includes 2,688 bundles of official ballots for the 1,649,730 registered voters in Iloilo City and province, 2,688 ACMs, 378 contingency machines, 2,643 batteries, 242 contingency batteries, 2,643 ballot boxes, and 45 consolidated canvassing system kits. The city’s official ballots are currently secured at the City Treasurer’s Office.