Iloilo City, Philippines — Ilonggo voters gained firsthand experience with the modernized voting process during the Commission on Elections (Comelec) Automated Counting Machine (ACM) demonstration held at the Iloilo City National High School in Molo.
Among the attendees was Kagawad Susanne Mates, who shared her positive feedback on the new voting system after trying it for the first time.
“So far, it’s very easy to use… You can review your votes and confirm if they are correct—unlike before when that wasn’t possible. It’s so convenient now,” Mates said.
“When compared to the previous elections, this feels simpler and more user-friendly… I feel more confident now that I can double-check my votes,” she added.
The event marked the first in a series of Comelec-organized ACM demonstrations to educate voters and ensure a smooth automated election process.
Comelec Iloilo City announced it will visit other barangays, including Parola in City Proper, to broaden voter awareness and prepare the electorate for the upcoming polls.
The demonstration brought together voters from selected barangays in Molo, Comelec personnel, teachers, Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV) members, Namfrel representatives, and other partner organizations.
According to Comelec Western Visayas Director lawyer Dennis Ausan, this demonstration and roadshow mark the start of an extensive campaign that will run until Jan. 30, 2025.
City Election Officer lawyer Pinky Tentativa shared important details about the new ACM features, including proper ballot shading and inserting procedures. Attendees also had the opportunity to raise questions about potential challenges that may arise during the automated elections.
A total of 102 ACM units have been delivered to Western Visayas and distributed to various local government units for scheduled demonstrations. These roadshows aim to train the Board of Election Inspectors on the updated voting process, ensuring a seamless experience for all voters.
