As the 2025 National and Local Elections draw near, the spotlight falls once again on the Philippines’ automated electoral system. The recent Automated Counting Machine (ACM) Roadshow held in Angeles City, spearheaded by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) City Election Officer Atty. Charmaine Casquejo, emphasized a crucial message: trust in technology, transparency, and collaboration is essential to ensuring the integrity of our elections.
Over the years, automation has transformed the electoral process in the Philippines, significantly reducing human errors and expediting vote counting. However, public trust in the system remains a challenge. Allegations of glitches, tampering, and vulnerabilities in the voting machines often surface, casting doubt on the results. This roadshow, made possible by the generous support of sponsors like Savers Group Holdings Inc. Chairman Jack Uy and Best Western Plus Metro Clark, serves as a timely reminder that trust is built not only through technology but also through proactive engagement and open dialogue with the electorate.
The event also underscored the critical role of the media, particularly group the Central Luzon Media Association (CLMA) Pampanga, in fostering voter education and transparency. Media practitioners serve as the bridge between COMELEC and the people, translating technical jargon into accessible information and addressing public concerns. By ensuring that voters understand how automated machines work, media organizations empower citizens to feel confident in the electoral process. The partnership between COMELEC and the media exemplifies how press freedom and ethical journalism are vital to a functioning democracy.
Another highlight was the importance of collaboration among various stakeholders. The forum brought together candidates, political parties, voters, and private sector supporters. The contributions of businesses like Savers Group Holdings Inc. and Best Western Plus Metro Clark exemplify how the private sector can play an active role in strengthening democratic processes. Such partnerships reflect the shared responsibility of ensuring a credible and peaceful election.
The inclusion of the BARMM Parliamentary Elections added another layer of significance. In a region with a history of conflict and disenfranchisement, automation offers a chance for more inclusive and transparent elections. However, this opportunity must be accompanied by intense voter education and monitoring to ensure no one is left behind in shaping their government.
Despite these advancements, challenges remain. The digital divide, particularly in rural and marginalized areas, poses a significant hurdle. For automation to work effectively, there must be a concerted effort to address technological gaps and ensure every voter—regardless of location or socioeconomic status—can participate meaningfully. This underscores the importance of forums like the ACM Roadshow, where voter education and collaboration take center stage.
City Election Officer Atty. Casquejo highlighted the roadshow’s significance, reminding attendees that democracy is not the responsibility of a single entity but a shared commitment. By empowering citizens and fostering collaboration with media, private businesses, and local governments, events like this lay the foundation for fair, peaceful, and credible elections.
Ultimately, this roadshow was more than just a demonstration of technology—it was a call to action. It urged us to move beyond skepticism and apathy, to embrace our roles as stewards of democracy. As we look ahead to 2025, let us hold fast to the ideals of transparency, accountability, and participation. With the support of organizations like COMELEC, the media, and private sponsors, we can ensure that the coming elections will be a triumph not just for automation, but for every Filipino.