Comelec deploys ballots, indelible ink, ACMs for May elections

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has started the nationwide deployment of official ballots and other election paraphernalia for the May 12 midterm elections, prioritizing far-flung areas.

Chairman George Garcia announced that by April 30, all ballots should be in the treasurers' offices, and automated counting machines (ACMs) will be with teachers by May 1 to ensure timely deployment across the country.

As of Wednesday, April 22, Comelec has deployed 3,576 boxes containing 2,378,828 official ballots and accompanying indelible ink supplies to six areas in Mindanao, including Basilan, Tawi-Tawi, Maguindanao del Norte, Maguindanao del Sur, Lanao del Sur, and the Special Geographic Area.

The Comelec plans to complete ballot delivery nationwide by Wednesday, April 30, and finalize ACM distribution on May 1, prioritizing remote areas for early deployment. The deployment of more than 80% of Starlink units intended for GIDAs has also been completed with full installation in public schools and legislative halls.

The Comelec added it is set to complete the deployment of some 110,000 automated counting machines (ACMs) by April 25, less than a month after it started on April 4. Precinct/post finder will allow registered voters to determine their assigned post/clustered precinct and voting center or school where they are assigned to vote on election day.