The Commission on Elections (COMELEC), in partnership with SM City Clark, hosted a three-day Automated Counting Machine (ACM) demonstration as part of its nationwide roadshow from January 9 to 11, running from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. This event marked the first joint demonstration for Angeles City and Mabalacat City, aimed at promoting transparent and efficient election processes ahead of the May 12, 2025, National and Local Elections.
Tune in to the Halalan 2025 Special Coverage, Balitaan at Talakayan, by the Central Luzon Media Association (CLMA) Pampanga Chapter for further updates.
The roadshow featured new ACMs developed by South Korean firm Miru Systems, designed to enhance accuracy, efficiency, and transparency in the electoral process. Miru Systems has delivered approximately 110,000 state-of-the-art ACMs for use in the 2025 elections.
Atty. Lydia Florentino-Pangilinan, COMELEC Pampanga Provincial Election Supervisor, led the event alongside Angeles City Election Officer Atty. Charmaine Casquejo and Mabalacat City Election Officer Maria Lourdes Alfaro. Also in attendance were Key Custodian and Building Officer Dennis Aquino, SM City Clark PR Manager Venus Magsino Manalang,, Mall Manager Jerwin Jalandoni, Assistant Mall Manager Lourdes Alarcon, and PNP Mabalacat City Director Col. Efren David Jr.
Aspirants, mall-goers, and local residents actively participated in the demonstration, gaining hands-on experience with the automated voting process. The event included briefings on essential election guidelines, such as proper ballot shading and avoiding overvoting to ensure valid votes.
This initiative forms part of COMELEC’s voter education efforts to familiarize the public with new voting technology and promote greater awareness of the automated election system.
In line with COMELEC En Banc Resolution No. 10999, the official election period begins today, January 12, and runs until June 11. A nationwide gun ban is now in effect, prohibiting the carrying of firearms and deadly weapons. Exemptions apply to on-duty law enforcement officers, high-ranking government officials, and other individuals authorized by COMELEC. Violations may lead to imprisonment, disqualification from public office, and loss of voting rights.