The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has announced that the customization of vote counting machines (VCMs) for the May 2025 midterm elections will commence on April 18.
Comelec Chairman George Garcia revealed that a team will be dispatched to South Korea to observe the initiation of the Full Automation System with Transparency Audit and Count project by Miru Systems, the South Korean firm leading the joint venture tasked with customizing the 110,000 automated counting machines.
Garcia emphasized that part of the contract includes an observer mission to assess Miru's manufacturing capabilities and readiness to fulfill its obligations.
The delegation will closely monitor the customization process and ensure compliance with the specified test specifications outlined in the terms of reference.
The Comelec previously issued a resolution permitting hardware customization of the ACMs.
Among the approved customizations are adjustments to the camera's position, screen enlargement, and privacy screen enhancements.
Additionally, modifications such as extending the cable tie metal holder and relocating the real-time clock battery were given the green light.
Furthermore, the ACMs will feature unique serial numbers readable by barcode readers to enhance tracking and security measures.
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