Comelec conducts another 'trusted build' for ACMs

The Commission on Elections conducted another "trusted build" on Saturday for the automated counting machines (ACMs) to be used in Eleksyon 2025.

According to a 24 Oras Weekend report by Vonne Aquino, representatives from Miru Systems and election watchdog groups observed the process.

The trusted build aims to ensure the reliability, accuracy, transparency, and security of the ACMs.

"Lahat ng possible bugs, even 'yung mga backdoor, chini-check 'yan ng ating source code reviewers," said Comelec Commissioner Nelson Celis. "Yung mga backdoor baka may pasukin doon 'yung hackers. 'Yung reliability dapat tumatakbo 'yan nang maayos."

(All possible bugs, including backdoors, are checked by our source code reviewers. Backdoors could be exploited by hackers, so we need to ensure the system runs smoothly and reliably.)

Comelec is working to secure certification for the automated election system as soon as possible.

"So far satisfied naman kami at marami na rin tayong puwedeng mga mai-recommend na for the 2028 national and local elections, na siguro mas aagahan 'yung mga proseso na ito," said PPCRV National Coordinator Dr. Arwin Serrano.

(So far, we are satisfied with the process. We can already recommend improvements for the 2028 national and local elections, including starting these processes earlier.)

Online Campaign Registration

Meanwhile, Comelec has extended the registration for candidates’ online campaign platforms until March 31.

"Maraming nagre-request na ma-extend pa rin," Celis said. "Although para naman fair sa lahat ng ating mga kandidato, i-extend na lang. Para maiwasan natin 'yung mga social media accounts ng mga kandidato na magpo-post ng mga disinformatrion, misinformation."

(Many have requested an extension. To ensure fairness for all candidates, we decided to grant it. This will also help prevent the spread of misinformation and disinformation on their social media accounts.)

Comelec is considering integrating the registration of online campaign platforms with the filing of certificates of candidacy in the future.

In January, Comelec deputized the National Printing Office to assist in the reprinting of official ballots for the May elections.

The office is using four printing machines alongside two machines procured from South Korean firm Miru Systems Inc. to ensure the timely completion of the process. — Jamil Santos/DVM, GMA Integrated News

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