Comelec invites poll critics to dinner

MANILA, Philippines - Commission on Elections (Comelec) Commissioner Gregorio Larrazabal has invited critics of the May 10 automated elections to a dinner on June 22 to discuss their proposals and positions.

Speaking to reporters yesterday, Larrazabal said their opinions could be useful for the Comelec’s preparations for the 2013 polls.

“I said it before that whether successful or failed election, I’ll invite critics to dinner,” he said.

Larrazabal said for the Comelec, the May 10 election was “transparent” and successful despite the many questions regarding the integrity and accuracy of the results.

“When you look at things, look at it objectively,” he said. 

“Forget your own personal agenda. Look at it objectively then make your statements.”

Otherwise, he said, “you do not only mislead the Comelec, you also mislead the public.”

Larrazabal said personally, he believes the Comelec must prepare early for the 2013 automated elections.

“It should be automated unless a law is passed to amend the automation law, then we’ll have automation in 2013,” he said. “Personally, I think (it should still be) precinct count optical scan machines because people now know how to vote.”