Legazpi City: The Commission on Elections in Bicol (Comelec-5) has readied a total of 821 contingency automated counting machines (ACMs) for the upcoming 2025 National and Local Elections. These machines are being positioned as backups to address any possible malfunction of the primary ACMs on election day.
According to Philippines News Agency, Comelec-5 Director Ma. Juana Valeza stated that these backup machines are part of a strategic contingency plan. “We have contingency plans in place. If an ACM malfunctions, we will contact the national technical support center. If a machine cannot be used, we have 821 ACMs stationed in different provinces that can be deployed as replacements,” Valeza explained during the final testing and sealing of ACMs held in a mall in Legazpi City.
Testing and sealing activities have been completed across all 5,877 polling centers in the region to ensure readiness for election day. “All machines and other materials required for the election on Monday, May 12, have already been deployed to various voting centers. We do not anticipate any delays,” Valeza assured.
Voters will be required to present any valid identification card when voting. “Any ID will suffice, or someone can attest to your status as a registered voter so that you can cast your ballot. We also urge voters, as well as candidates and their supporters, to follow the rules and help maintain peace and order,” she emphasized.
Despite the activity of Bulusan Volcano, Valeza confirmed that elections in the affected municipalities would proceed as planned. None of the voting centers have been designated as evacuation centers in Sorsogon. “They did not use voting centers for evacuation. The only challenge we face is that ash fallout may affect the scanners, so we must ensure that the tables are clean. Our electoral boards have been trained for these situations and have been given specific instructions,” she noted.
The agency has a contingency plan in place to manage any sudden incidents that may impact polling places. Valeza added that they are coordinating with local governments and disaster risk management agencies to ensure voter safety and the integrity of the elections.
