Poll automation: More questions than answers

MANILA, Philippines - It would be an exciting elections this coming May 2010, not only with the personalities who would be vying to various elective positions and the usual fanfare and festivities that go with the political season.

But there is even more to the coming elections that would make it very much anticipated by all sectors of society, because it would be the first time the elections in the Philippines would be automated.

A lot has been said about the modernization of the country’s polls, a lot of fears and a lot of assurances have been made, but as far as we, teachers are concerned, we think there are a lot more questions that need to be answered before computerized elections get into high gear.

We would be the one who would be again serving as members of the Board of Election Inspectors, who are in charge of ensuring that the balloting in our respective areas of responsibility goes smoothly so that it would be credible and untainted with irregularities.

First, the machines are electronically coded for each designated clustered precinct, but what if they get mixed up and delivered elsewhere? What are the contingencies that have been put in place to ensure that the misplaced vote counting machines would be replaced immediately so the polling places would be filled by angry voters.

Second would be the question of secrecy. There would be a lot of voters who would be using the new system with confusion and given this kind of situation, we the teachers should guide them through the process, making their votes visible to us.

Third, what if a machine designated for a particular precinct breaks down even before it could be used, or worse, if it bogs down while in the middle of transmission or voting? What are the measures that have been put in place to prevent the disruption of the elections?

But despite the fears and apprehensions, it is my belief that somehow, the automated elections should push through as the law mandates, but before we embark on this milestone on our right to suffrage, questions surrounding the entire process should be given answers first. — Erlinda Sombillo,  Teacher, Lourdes Elementary School Candaba, Pampanga East District