Manila Bulletin
Poll lawyer elated over Comelec’s decision allowing ballot random sampling
Election lawyer Romulo Macalintal expressed elation over the Commission on Elections' (Comelec) decision to allow random sampling of ballots.
He had previously criticized the Comelec for printing ballots without the presence of candidates' observers, calling it an "unforgivable disservice to the electorate."
Macalintal had formally requested the Comelec to conduct this random sampling to ensure transparency in the ballot printing process.
He attributed the favorable decision to newly-appointed Comelec Commissioner George Erwin M. Garcia, noting Garcia's background as an election practitioner.
The initial request aimed to test the security of the printing process and verify that ballots contain all required security features, which were previously disallowed due to COVID-19 surges and mobility restrictions.
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The Commission on Elections (Comelec) conducted an unprecedented random inspection of official ballots for the May 2022 polls, allowing participation from election observation groups and members of the media.
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Election lawyer Romulo Macalintal criticized the Commission on Elections (Comelec) for printing official ballots without observers from candidates, calling it a disservice to voters.
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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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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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The National Press Club of the Philippines (NPC), Automated Election System Watch (AES WATCH), and Guardians Brotherhood, Inc. (GBI) have petitioned the Supreme Court (SC) to compel the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to ensure transparency in the 2022 national and local elections.
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