Comelec chief: Davide backing use of ACMs

After years of gathering dust, the controversial automated counting machines (ACM) purchased by the Commission on Elections (Comelec) may finally be put to good use.

With the backing of newly appointed Presidential Adviser for Electoral Reforms Hilario Davide Jr., the Comelec yesterday expressed confidence that Congress will allow the use of the ACMs, worth P1.248 billion, for the 2007 elections.

Comelec Chairman Benjamin Abalos said Davide expressed his full commitment to the automation of the 2007 elections — including the possible use of the controversial ACMs.

"He (Davide) gave his full support to automate the 2007 elections although he advised the Comelec to also draw up alternative plans," Abalos said after meeting with Davide.

According to Abalos, the Comelec is hoping that the former chief justice will serve as a "conduit" between the Comelec and Congress.

"I think he could act very much as a conduit between us, Malacañang and Congress and enable the commission," Abalos said.

He said the meeting with Davide was part of the Comelec’s efforts to pursue all possible avenues to secure congressional authorization for the use of the ACMs.

The Comelec purchased the ACMs for the 2004 presidential elections, but the Supreme Court, then headed by Davide, barred the use of the machines due to bidding irregularities in their purchase.

While the high court annulled the contract for the supply of the ACMs, Abalos said, then Chief Justice Davide had dissented, saying, "there is no suggestion that graft and corruption attended the bidding process or the contract price is excessive."

Although Comelec is still pushing for the use of the ACMs, Abalos said, the poll body is also looking for more advanced and appropriate technology to ensure clean elections in the country.