Manila Bulletin
Comelec explains why observers not allowed before, during ballot printing
Election lawyer Romulo Macalintal criticized the Commission on Elections (Comelec) for printing official ballots without observers from candidates, calling it a disservice to voters.
Comelec Commissioner Marlon S. Casquejo disallowed watchers from Vice President Robredo's camp from observing the ballot printing due to security concerns at the National Printing Office (NPO).
Casquejo cited Covid-19 as the reason why observers were not allowed at the NPO during the printing process.
Macalintal argued that the decision by a single Comelec member was arbitrary and violated the due process rights of parties and candidates by denying them lawful access without notice or hearing.
Casquejo offered to provide closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage of the printing process for those who could not witness it.
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Election lawyer Romulo Macalintal expressed elation over the Commission on Elections' (Comelec) decision to allow random sampling of ballots.
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The National Citizens Movement for Free Elections (Namfrel) urged the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to allow observers access to ballot printing and warehouse operations.
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President Rodrigo Duterte has expressed his belief that the Commission on Elections (Comelec) did not violate any rules regarding the printing of ballots for the upcoming elections.
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The Commission on Elections (Comelec) expects to finish printing official ballots for the May elections by March 28.
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