The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has received a second batch of 8,640 automated counting machines (ACMs) from South Korean supplier Miru Systems for use in the 2025 midterm elections. The delivery was made to the Comelec warehouse in Biñan, Laguna, as part of ongoing preparations for the upcoming polls.
Comelec has emphasized the importance of quality control, stating that each machine undergoes a thorough inspection. Any machines that do not meet the required standards will be returned for replacement.
Current Inventory and Future Deliveries
Currently, the Philippines has about 24,000 ACMs, though 7,000 of these are still awaiting clearance from the Bureau of Customs. Miru Systems began its deliveries in July and has also provided all the necessary servers, printers, and laptops for vote canvassing. Comelec aims to have a total of 110,000 ACMs delivered by December 2024.
Contract and Legal Challenges
The P17.99-billion contract for these machines and related peripherals, including ballot boxes and laptops, was awarded to Miru Systems in March. However, this contract has faced scrutiny and has been challenged before the Supreme Court over alleged fraud and potential violations of the poll automation law.
Comelec continues to work toward ensuring a smooth and efficient electoral process for the 2025 midterm elections, while addressing any concerns regarding the procurement and use of the automated election system.