Comelec, SM malls hold VCM demos nationwide

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) partnered with SM Supermalls to conduct vote counting machine (VCM) demonstrations and mock elections in various malls nationwide.

The initiative, part of the 'Let's Vote Pinas' voters' education program, aims to boost public confidence in the VCMs and the voting process.

These events allow mall shoppers to get hands-on experience with the VCMs and understand voting procedures, aiming to reduce common voter errors.

The VCM demonstration teaches voters how to properly shade ballots, insert them into the machine, and obtain the voter-verified paper audit trail (VVPAT).

The program has been conducted in Metro Manila malls like SM North EDSA, SM Megamall, and SM Aura Tower, in addition to previous events in Bulacan.

Comelec Commissioner Aimee Ferolino and spokesperson James Jimenez monitored the activities in Metro Manila, noting positive feedback from participants.

SM Supermalls president Steven Tan stated that all 78 SM malls nationwide will participate in this initiative.

The 'Let's Vote Pinas' event aims to familiarize the public with the automated election system before the May 9 polls.